Luxon to tell National faithful country is 'turning the corner'

As the National Party gathers in Christchurch for its annual conference, leader Christopher Luxon is expected to deliver a message of cautious optimism to party members, stating that the country is 'turning the corner' in the face of ongoing economic challenges.

The conference will also mark the retirement of a long-serving party stalwart, Peter Goodfellow, who has stepped down from the National Party's board of directors after more than a decade of service. This event comes at a pivotal time for the party, as it continues to grapple with the lingering effects of the cost of living crisis.

Luxon, addressing the party faithful, acknowledged the challenges but emphasized the government's commitment to long-term economic planning. 'Look, they know it's been a tough time, they know that we're turning the corner,' he said. 'But really ... this country's got great potential and a great future ahead of it, and we've just got to keep working at it.'

Deputy leader Nicola Willis echoed this sentiment, stating that the conference would focus on the government's efforts to create a more business-friendly environment and generate well-paying jobs. 'It is our job as a government not to moan about the things we can't control, but to focus on how we can make things better here in New Zealand,' she said.

This marks a stark contrast to the previous year, when the National Party's message was more centered on action and delivery. Now, with the cost of living crisis still a pressing issue, the party is working to reassure the public that it has the situation under control.

Despite these efforts, recent polling has shown that National has struggled to maintain its support levels. In 2023, the party won 38.06 percent of the party vote, but recent polls have had National in the low thirties, with some suggesting that the left bloc could potentially form a government.

At the conference, party members will also hear from ministers on a range of topics, including health, education, law and order, agriculture, and the economy. Additionally, board members will be elected, with several long-serving members retiring and others seeking re-election.

As the National Party looks to the future, it faces the challenge of maintaining public confidence while addressing the ongoing economic and social issues that continue to shape the nation.