Todd Talks By Todd Muller

The Bay is set to continue its surging growth and bring with it more jobs and better prospects for families in our region.

A recent study released by Infometrics shows the Bay of Plenty grew by 3.2 per cent in the first quarter of this year compared to a year earlier.

We're tracking above the country's average growth and the Government's economic policies are keeping us in good stead, despite a low dairy prices this year.

Our own growers and agri-farmers have done very well in supporting us through a bumper season, where Zespri posted a $939 million annual return thanks to a strong performance in gold and green varieties.

The consistent growth we see underlines the Government's recent move to offer more support for the most vulnerable in our midst with a $790 million budget package focused on child hardship.

I'm proud of how this Government ensures it balances fiscal responsibility with social support – when we can do more for Kiwis who are struggling, we do.