Hon John Carter
Minister of Civil Defence
Minister for Senior Citizens
Minister for Racing
Associate Minister of Local Government
December 17 2008
Media Statement
Briefing summarises issues facing older New Zealanders
Senior Citizens Minister John Carter says the ministerial briefing on his new portfolio provides a useful summary of the
issues facing older New Zealanders.
“With the older population predicted to double by the year 2028 and to be a quarter of our total population in 2051, we
have a critical window of opportunity,” Mr Carter said.
“New Zealand needs to carefully consider polices and services that ensure older people can live where they want and
participate in their communities as long as they are able.
“The Office for Senior Citizens briefing points to some of the challenges New Zealand will need to address. These
include meeting older peoples’ growing expectations on healthcare and ensuring older people know where to go for help
and are encouraged to do so.
“We have the opportunity to improve needs assessments for older people so their health needs are better met, to work
with local government on ways to make communities friendlier, safer places; and to support older New Zealanders to
continue working for as long as they are able.
“I’m heartened that we are making good progress. Older people have a great deal to offer. Feedback from organisations
working for older people reaffirms my commitment to ensuring that the valuable contribution all older New Zealanders
have to make to this country is realised,” Mr Carter said.
ENDS
Copies of the briefing for the incoming Minister for Senior Citizens are available from