WELLINGTON, May 10 (Xinhua) -- Securing the recovery post COVID-19 and investing in the wellbeing of New Zealanders are the focus of Budget 2021, Finance Minister Grant Robertson said Monday at a pre-budget speech in Auckland.
"The economy has proven resilient in response to COVID-19, due to people having confidence in the government's health response to keep them safe," Robertson said.
The minister said business and consumer confidence is increasing due to the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines and carefully opening-up of the borders.
However, New Zealand still faces "a highly volatile and uncertain global environment", so a balanced approach is required, Robertson said, adding investment will be made to tackle the long-term challenges such as climate change, child wellbeing and housing.
An investment-focused recovery that supports all New Zealanders is the way to ensure that finances remain sustainable, the minister said. Enditem