Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

The 2014 Social Progress Index — a global measure of human wellbeing — was released earlier this month. It found New Zealand is the best country for providing opportunities for people to improve their position in life and get ahead.

The index rated 132 countries on 43 different measures, so for New Zealand to be ranked number one is quite an achievement. The Index takes into account hundreds of possible indicators across a wide range of areas, relating to how well the needs of citizens are provided for.

It would be disingenuous to claim the Government is solely responsible for this result. We are blessed to live in such a wonderful country with a strong democratic framework, abundant natural resources, and innovative people.

However, we've been working hard every day since we took office to improve our health, welfare and education systems to deliver better public services – one of our four priorities this term.

We've invested in new policies and services for children and families. Most of our children aged under six have 24-hour access to free healthcare, we have fully-funded the 24/7 PlunketLine, and immunisation rates are much higher under National. We have put social workers in hospitals and expanded social workers in schools.

The Children's Action Plan is also increasing funding and services for children in care, and we introduced children's teams to work with at-risk children.

We've always said we believe high-quality education is vitally important, as it provides the opportunity for any child from any background to get ahead and make the most of their life.

During tight fiscal times we have invested $9.7 billion in education, which is more than ever before. This puts us near the top of the OECD for spend as a percentage of GDP.

Last year we committed $27 million to education initiatives, targeted at supporting children who aren't being served by the current system.

February's Household Labour Force Survey shows the number of 15 to 24 year olds not in employment, education, or training, is at its lowest point since December 2008.

In 2012, for the first time, the majority of New Zealanders had a degree or other tertiary qualification. Plus, 1500 people a week are coming off a benefit as a result of National's welfare reforms.

During the last year 66,000 more people got jobs, and unemployment is falling.

New Zealand really is leading the way forward, with our growing economy and our focus on improving public services for New Zealanders.