A Time to Reflect, a Time to Build. As we pass the halfway mark of the year, it’s a good time to reflect on the progress we’ve made and where we’re heading.
With Matariki recently observed, many of us have taken a moment to pause and plan ahead. For all of us, this means looking at how Government initiatives like Investment Boost are already having an impact and how ongoing economic momentum is opening doors for future growth.
Since the release of Budget 2025, I’ve had the opportunity to speak with local business owners across the community. Many have shared their views on what the changes mean for them — from confidence in the economy to practical ways new policies are helping their operations.
One local construction business owner recently told me that Investment Boost came at just the right time. With a major project underway, the ability to immediately deduct 20% of the cost of new equipment made the decision to invest not just possible, but strategic. Importing is a key part of his business and he shared that the policy has also given him greater confidence when dealing with overseas counterparts, supporting both day-to-day operations and long-term planning.
In construction, trades to retail and local industries, business owners are responding with renewed confidence. This reflects what we’re seeing nationally – GDP grew by 0.8% in the first quarter of the year, twice the rate forecast by both Treasury and the Reserve Bank. It was the second consecutive quarter of growth and, importantly, GDP per person also increased by 0.5%, the highest rate since September 2022, following eight quarters of negative or no growth.
These signs of economic recovery, from rising business confidence and increased investment to stronger than expected GDP growth, are more than just numbers. They point to a turning tide. As businesses gain the confidence to grow and create jobs, and as inflation trends downward, these gains begin to flow through to households. The improvements may not be felt overnight, but they represent a step in the right direction that is helping to ease cost-of-living pressures and build a more stable future for everyone.
I continue to run Community Clinics regularly and always welcome the chance to hear from local residents and businesses. If there’s anything you’d like to raise or if you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with my office. You can also follow my social media to stay updated on local issues, events and announcements.
(Hon Melissa Lee) National List MP based in Mt Albert Authorised by Melissa Lee, Parliament Buildings, Wellington MPLee@parliament.govt.nz
#ponsonbynews #iloveponsonby #loveponsonby #ponsonby #auckland #aucklandshippestrip #onlyponsonby #ponsonbyroad #Greylynn #freemansbay #westmere #ponsonby #hernebay #stmarysbay #archhill #coxsbay @followers #followers @everyone #everyone #waitematalocalboard @highlight
