Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

While the Brexit vote and the Australian election have made for a fascinating last couple of weeks for political junkies like me, some people have raised concerns about the possible impact of all this instability on the New Zealand economy.

This Government's focus on making New Zealand an open, diversified, trading nation means we are better equipped to deal with global risks beyond our control, such as any short-term economic volatility from Brexit and the uncertainty in Australia.

While many decades ago Britain was our largest trading partner, we now have a much wider range of trading partners. Since we took office eight years ago, our trading relationships around the world have grown in number and diversity.

Since 2008 we have entered into free trade agreements with Malaysia, Hong Kong, Korea, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations – known as ASEAN nations. Plus, we have an economic co-operation agreement with Chinese Taipei as well as signing the Trans-Pacific Partnership with 11 other Asia-Pacific countries. We have also started negotiations with India and will continue our discussions with the European Union on a possible free trade agreement.

We are also a far more diversified export economy than we were in the past. Sectors like Information Communications Technology, tourism and wine are driving large increases in the value of our exports.

Our economy now has a strong, broad foundation for future growth and is far more flexible than ever before.

Despite uncertain times, National's sound fiscal management has led to a resilient, growing economy which is equipped to meet the challengers and grab the opportunities that lie ahead.