The Social Environment

Economically New Zealand is a more varied and challenging place than it was a generation ago. Socially though the situation is less happy. A whole range of areas, from the stability of family life to the safety of certain city streets at night, is much less certain than it once was.

I suppose one could say that New Zealand is simply following trends elsewhere in the western world, and is still comparatively better than most.

However, the special and unique New Zealand we once had seems to be eroding. This has created a situation where much more often than we would like, administrative firmness has to be brought in to deal with difficult situations. I would emphasise that a heavy, necessary emphasis on law and order is not exactly New Zealand the way I want to see it. However, when firm measures in any area are required my Government will face up to its obligations.