Our focus as a government remains front and centre on ensuring the economy continues to perform well.

That’s because it’s only through a strong, growing economy that we’re able to create more jobs, lift wages and deliver better public services to those who need them most.

New Zealand’s economy is in much better shape than it was seven years ago when we came into government.

We are now one of the fastest growing economies in the developed world. Our unemployment rate continues to fall, and wages, on average, are increasing faster than the cost of living. 

Our challenge over the next few years is to ensure our economy continues to outperform, year on year. 

Two of the most important ways we can achieve sustainable, long-term growth are through innovation and investing in the education of our young people. 

During my pre-budget speech in Wellington last week, I outlined some important announcements in these areas.

Budget 2015 will see the National-led Government invest another $80 million over four years to encourage more research and development (R&D) in the private sector. This is on top of the $566 million we committed over four years in 2013.

R&D creates jobs, builds our exports, and contributes to achieving a stronger New Zealand economy.Education is another vital area that will receive extra support in the Budget next month. 

A good education benefits individuals, their families, their communities and the country.The Budget next month will provide another $244 million over the next four years to meet growing school rolls and to improve the environment where our young people learn. 

This includes building seven new schools, which will provide spaces for nearly 4,000 extra students. We expect the first of these new schools to open in 2017.

Over the next year we will also fund an extra 241 classroom’s at existing schools around New Zealand, with almost half of them in Auckland. 

Our strong, growing economy, backed by the National-led Government’s clear economic plan, is translating into real benefits for New Zealand households and businesses.

The Budget next month will deliver more important policies that provide opportunities for more New Zealanders and their families to get ahead.