As a 66 year old I look back on what can only be considered the golden years. I had free education and could have gone to university for free. Most students now have student loans that impact on their ability to buy housing. We were able to purchase our first home with a state home mortgage, second bank loan and sweat equity, as the deposit. We raised seven children on one wage. I have travelled overseas. I am satisfied; I have had a privileged life. I work with families who have no housing. Who struggle to pay their power bill, who need to beg work and income for food assistance, after paying power. Who are paying rents they can’t afford. I think that all retiring NZ needs access to a super they can live on house themselves get medical assistance as should all NZ. My priority though is young families putting food on their table and having shelter they can afford. Many young NZ families are leaving NZ to go to Australia because they can’t afford to live here. If champion the needs of younger people offends older folk in Upper Hutt, I am sorry, but I think if we count our blessings and live simply our young people might have a chance to get ahead just like most of us did. Available though , to assist older people if needing benefit assistance.

Teresa Homan

The letter that this is responding to can be viewed at: https://uhconnection.co.nz/letters-to-the-editor/reply-to-teresa-homans-letter-d-j-mcnicholas/

A “thank you” to Teresa Homan for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

07/08/25