Dear John,
Welcome to the first edition of a brand-new weekly newsletter from National, called “Friday Top 5: things you might have missed this week” (yes, I know it’s Thursday!)
This new weekly update is your chance to hear directly from us about what National has done each week to fix the basics and build the future and to read some of the progress we’re making in many areas on your behalf.
Here’s what you might’ve missed this week:
1. School’s back; assessments and reports are being improved
This is the year parents will finally see nationally consistent assessments and reporting in primary and intermediate schools – no matter which school their kids attend. Expect to see easy-to-understand information about progress in reading, writing and maths, alongside attendance information. We know parents are desperate to get this info so we hope it will be widely welcomed.
Read more here
2. We’re making it cheaper and easier to get a driver’s licence
Driver licences are essential for helping people access jobs, education, and healthcare. We’re making it easier and cheaper to get a license by letting people with clean driving records get a full license without sitting another test. The cost will reduce by $80 too. We’ve also introduced a range of safety improvements to help keep everyone safe on our roads.
Read more here
3. Residential construction is on the up
Last year was tough for the construction sector with high interest rates caused by Labour’s reckless spending, but the economy is turning a corner. A good indication is 36,610 new residential building consents issued in 2025 – a 9.0% increase on 2024. This is great news for the construction sector and for Kiwis looking to buy a home.
4. 15,000 more jobs last quarter
Jobs data out this week shows a small increase in the unemployment rate to 5.4% (up from 5.3%). But what wasn’t so widely reported was the additional 15,000 jobs that have been created. It’s also worth mentioning that the unemployment rate went up slightly because more people are actually looking for work. National is working hard to drive jobs, growth, and higher living standards for all Kiwis and we’ve got a busy year ahead!
Read more here
5. Midwives
Midwives will now be able to offer a wider range of immunisations. In addition to providing pregnancy vaccines, midwives will now be able to administer funded vaccines to mothers after birth, babies, and eligible family members until the baby is 12 months old. This change will improve access to vaccination for expectant mothers, new parents, infants, and close family members, helping to ensure timely protection against vaccine preventable diseases.
Chris Bishop
National Campaign Chair
