FTMP did a brief livestream on social media today in between sessions of doorknocking around New Zealand’s largest city.

“Kia ora, welcome to this livestream. I thought I’d just take an opportunity to talk about some of the things we’ve done in Government this term and what we’re hoping to do in the next term. As you may know, this term I’ve held three portfolios, Transport, Finance and Social Development. And we’ve made a lot of progress, particularly under the Social Development portfolio.”

“In this term’s budget we made public transport free for everyone. And this is a critical step in our transport future. It’s a step that recognises that public transport is social infrastructure. It belongs to us collectively. It’s not something that should be designed to make a profit. Growing use of public transport is a benefit to all of us. It means more cars off the road, faster travel times, and a lesser impact on the environment.”

“In another term of government, the Greens will do much more to expand public transport and decarbonise our transport. The electrification of cars, rail and buses is a critical part of the fight against climate change. And that’s why we’ll be introducing stronger emissions standards alongside a ‘feebate’ scheme for new imports. This is a revenue-neutral scheme that will place a charge on inefficient ICEVs and subsidise electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles and fuel efficient cars. This will make it easier for kiwis to transition to electric vehicles by tackling one of the biggest hurdles; the upfront cost.”

“This term we also ended all benefit sanctions and raised core benefits. Decades of governments in NZ have kept benefits low. This has helped trap people in poverty. By raising benefits and raising the abatement threshold, we’re ensuring that kiwis in need can get by. In the next term we’ll index benefits to inflation to ensure that beneficiaries can continue to afford to live.”

“This term we finally raised the minimum wage to the living wage of $21.15. As with benefits, the next step is to index it to inflation so that it remains a living wage, without being dependent on annual increases.”

“The Greens have a proven record in government and you can trust that we will continue to govern in the best interests of all New Zealanders. We recognise that the government has a responsibility to look after all of its citizens. And if we ensure that everyone can afford the basic services we need, we will have a country that is more prosperous and better for everyone. So when you go to vote tomorrow, vote Green!”