Tamati Coffey Labour List MP

As we get stuck into another busy year, I'm focused on supporting the Waiariki electorate.

So far 2023 has kicked off with significant changes.

We've welcomed Chris Hipkins into the role of Prime Minister and Labour Leader, and thanked Jacinda Ardern for her five years of leadership.

Chris has said that our Government's number one priority is the cost of living and ensuring hard-working New Zealanders can live and thrive.

Along with Chris, the whole team of Labour MPs and I are all absolutely committed to tackling the cost of living.

We know things are hard for a lot of Kiwis – global inflation is high, and that's hitting New Zealand too. However, our economic management means we have record low unemployment, government debt levels are low, and our inflation rate remains below the OECD average.

While that's important, we hear loud and clear that many New Zealanders are struggling.

We know people are worried about paying their grocery bills and paying their mortgages. We know there's a lot of work to do and our government focus will shift to bread-and-butter issues.

In 2023, we want to grow a strong economy and we'll keep working hard to strengthen the core public services like health and education.

There's also a lot to be positive about. For example, we've seen huge numbers of international tourists return, which has been great for local businesses. The challenges facing our country won't go away overnight but the Labour team is ready to kick on!