New Zealanders are heading into an election year under pressure. Against that backdrop, 1News reporter Aziz Al-Sa’afin asks a simple question in a new TVNZ+ series: What Matters Most?
The cost of living remains stubbornly high, with inflation continuing to bite and petrol prices climbing past $3. Grocery bills are stretching further, and for some households, even the basics are becoming harder to afford.
At the same time, global tensions are adding to the uncertainty, with conflict in the Middle East pushing up fuel prices and raising fresh concerns about the economy here at home.
'The children are the most important thing'
For Corrina, a teacher and mother of two, the focus is on supporting our rangatahi.
"How do we support them and how do we nurture and love them in New Zealand?"
When it comes to her own needs, cost of living and the Auckland commute were top of mind.
"I guess it's been pretty tough at times trying to pay off a mortgage and the traffic here is pretty horrendous!"
When it comes to the upcoming election in November there’s still uncertainty.
"I don't have much trust in the government, not much faith there's going to be any big changes whether you vote one way or the other.
"I just have to do what I can do with my own family, my own community, the children we work with and make sure that they're getting the best of whatever we can get them.
"I don't think that change is coming from the top".
'One thing I have noticed'
Caroline is a physician visiting New Zealand from Los Angeles, she had a good first impression upon landing.
"I've noticed New Zealand's very family friendly. That's one thing I've noticed, just people are very friendly and parks like this and even just having play areas near the airport," she said while being interviewed in Auckland's Victoria Park.
"Just how friendly and accepting the people here are and the culture is very welcoming - and I think it's very noticeable. I've been here for one week and I can tell that."
For her the focus is close to home.
"Family is most important to me right now, my son and my husband."
The tourist also had some advice for our political leaders.
"Be inclusive and accept all people no matter their backgrounds, their races, their religions, their beliefs, we're all humans.
"And just accepting one another and being kind, I think it's just having an open heart and being kind and accepting to everyone."
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