Viewpoint – Chance for a strong recovery

As we chart our course through these unprecedented times, I would like to begin by acknowledging all of our communities and individuals who have played their part in tackling this unseen threat to our health, livelihoods and way of life. The nationwide Covid-19 Level Four lockdown has now lifted, and hopefully we have a short stay in Level 3. I would like to thank all of the essential workers who carried on working. A big thumbs up to you all.

Like many parents, I had to scramble to get my daughter home from uni in the Manawatu before we were constrained to the safety of our bubbles. After major tragedies occur, we always wonder if life is ever going to be the same again. What these painful and jarring events do is give us all an opportunity for self-reflection on both an individual and national level. My own reflections have taken place at home here in Matakana, surrounded by my nearest and dearest – humans and pets.

The government acted quickly and decisively six weeks ago, knowing the future of our country for many years would be determined by how swiftly we responded to Covid-19. It was a pragmatic decision that shows the influence of New Zealand First, as part of the coalition Government. The decision the government took balances the urgent need to respond to the health emergency, but also takes note of the economic repercussions it may have. The results indicate that this course of action was successful: New Zealand is one of only a handful of countries that did not see a mass, uncontrolled Covid-19 outbreak. This success means that we are ready to begin the uphill task of restarting our economy.

Undoubtedly our economy suffered under the lockdown, but rest assured that New Zealand First will ensure there is a plan going forward for economic recovery. Infrastructure Minister Shane Jones indicated that the government is seeking “shovel-ready” building projects that can be started as soon as the lockdown finishes. We want to help Kiwi businesses bounce back and help Kiwis who lost their jobs return to work as soon as possible. Our party leader Winston Peters said that our country has the opportunity to become a “superior, more wealthy, more egalitarian society than we ever were before”. But that will only be possible if we think outside the square and transform our economy to work smarter going forward.

You can be certain that NZ First will push visionary ideas in government decision-making. The recovery is time for blue sky thinking, not for ideology. We have a clear vision and plan that will focus on getting people back to work. This will be necessary to avoid a social crisis, particularly for those in low income jobs and for Māori. As we face the task of rebuilding our country, we have an opportunity to build a better, fairer society than before the crisis. I am heartened by the community spirit shown in our own region. There are many examples of neighbours extending the hand of kindness during lockdown. This is the kind of attitude that will see us through this national crisis. This spirit of nationhood will be what’s needed to rebuild a better New Zealand.

Thank you to everyone for doing your bit, including just staying at home. Stay safe and don’t forget to horoia ō ringaringa! (wash your hands!)