Jab

It's good to see that the meningococcal vaccine is going ahead, and that it has the funding to ensure that it is done properly. I think that while the Immunisation Awareness Society makes a valid observation regarding the underlying causes of the disease (poor living standards, poverty, etc) aren`t being addressed here, they seem to be missing the point that the vaccine is a good thing and will save many lives. But then I don`t really agree with the IAS's stance on vaccination anyway.

Thus, one of the better parts of this year's budget was the increased funding to Housing NZ to build more houses to meet the shortage, especially in Auckland, as well as to upgrade existing houses. I recall there was more funding given to the EECA to retrofit older houses with insulation as well, although I can`t seem to find a link. New Zealand's housing stock really is shocking by developed world standards, and any improvements at all are beneficial to the basic well-being of society.