Older New Zealanders are calling for greater political cooperation to address pressing issues such as healthcare access, the rising cost of living, national debt, and the future of superannuation ahead of the upcoming election.
Age Concern New Zealand, an advocacy group for the 65-plus population, emphasized the need for more bipartisan efforts to ensure stable and sustainable policies. Chief Executive Karen Billings-Jensen highlighted that while older voters hold diverse political views, there is broad concern over essential matters including housing, income security, and healthcare services. She noted that inconsistent policies and rapid changes enacted by successive governments have caused instability for many in this age group.
Healthcare remains a significant priority for older New Zealanders, with particular attention to long wait times and the need for increased focus on preventive care. Billings-Jensen also raised concerns about social isolation and loneliness, which can negatively impact health outcomes among older adults. She stressed that the cost of living increases, particularly in transport, fuel, and food prices, are felt across various demographic groups within the elderly population, including renters and those living in retirement villages, in both urban and rural areas.
Superannuation, which provides the primary source of income for approximately 40% of people aged over 65, is another critical issue. Grey Power New Zealand, a senior citizens’ advocacy organization, identified the future adequacy of NZ Superannuation as its top election concern. The group also called for a review of the accommodation supplement, noting that the cash-asset limits applied to older renters have remained unchanged since 1993, despite escalating housing costs. Grey Power pointed to rental insecurity affecting roughly 20% of older New Zealanders, emphasizing that stable housing is vital for a secure retirement.
During a recent visit to Petone’s Bob Scott Retirement Village, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon engaged with residents about their priorities. Among those attending was Dr. Colin Fenton, who will turn 99 this month. Fenton expressed strong concern over New Zealand’s national debt, referencing Luxon’s remark that the government recently allocated NZD 10 billion to interest payments. “I certainly don’t want a great big extra pile of money we have to pay interest on,” Fenton said, highlighting worries about fiscal sustainability.
Other residents shared similar economic concerns, with Garry Pallo naming control of the national economy as his foremost priority. Pallo expressed support for extending parliamentary terms to four years, believing that longer terms would better enable governments to implement long-term policies. He also commented positively on Luxon’s responses during the discussion.
One point of contention arose when a resident inquired about proposed changes to the Retirement Villages Act 2003. The act currently mandates that operators refund residents or their families within 12 months after they leave the village; under National’s proposal, this period would be reduced to nine months. The suggestion sparked debate among the attendees.
Overall, older voters seem motivated by concerns not only for their own welfare but also for the future prosperity and stability of their families and the country. Age Concern and Grey Power are urging political parties to set aside partisan differences and work collaboratively to address these shared challenges.