The National-led Government has today presented a budget that ensure all New Zealanders share in the benefits of our growing economy.

It seizes upon the many opportunities presented by a growing economy from a government who cares and knows how to get results.

Our ninth Budget shows economic growth is expected to average around 3 per cent over the next few years, leading to more jobs and higher incomes for hard working Kiwis.

Here are some highlights from Budget 2017:

· $2 billion per year Family Incomes Package - by adjusting income tax thresholds this will help hard working New Zealanders to keep getting ahead. In Budget 2017 we’re also increasing Working for Families and supporting low-income families with more money for their accommodation costs.

· 1.3 million families will benefit from the Family Incomes Package, by $26 a week, on average, with changes particularly targeted at low and middle income earners. Around 750,000 superannuitants will also benefit.

· $4 billion investment in the vital public infrastructure a growing economy needs - new roads, rail, schools, hospitals, and housing.

· $7 billion for public services, especially health, education and law and order.

· $321 million for 14 Social Investment initiatives to improve the lives of some of our most vulnerable people.

· $2 billion for law and order including 1125 more Police staff across the country, and more money to prevent burglaries and target reoffending.

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This Budget shows the Government is continuing to build upon the economic success of the past few years by supporting economic growth and creating jobs.

We now have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to raise the living standards of all New Zealanders and share the benefits of a strong and growing economy.

We need to retain our focus on delivering a strong economy because if we slip back, these opportunities will quickly disappear.

Kind Regards,
Bill English
Prime Minister

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