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New Zealand's public health system is in crisis, with long waiting lists and growing inequalities. Dr Art Nahill warns of a two-tiered system, while private healthcare surges ahead. Can Minister Simeon Brown restore faith in equitable healthcare? Read about the challenges and the future of NZ’s health sector.

Wellington seniors face unaffordable rates, with many struggling to keep up with the 21% increase. Grey Power urges government action, calling for changes to the rates rebate and income thresholds to help retirees. Read more about the issue in Wellington.

The General Social Survey reveals nearly 50% of Kiwis cut back on fresh produce in 2023, highlighting increasing financial stress. Economist Shamubeel Eaqul notes unprecedented economic strain, particularly affecting vulnerable seniors. Urgent action is needed to enhance accommodation support for older adults facing rising living costs.

The Mercer International Review reveals top-rated pension systems, with the Netherlands, Iceland, Denmark, and Israel earning an A rating. New Zealand NZS drops to 28th in "Adequacy," highlighting ongoing concerns about retirement income for vulnerable populations.

For those concerned about the Government failing to ensure that there is a replacement Cook Strait Ferry that can carry trains and maintain the NI-SI link, you may wish to consider supporting the Save Our Trains/The Future is Rail petition.

We have been flooded with calls and emails from seniors around the country upset or outraged as to the processes being implemented for driver licence renewal at some medical practices. The uptake of compulsory cognitive tests is clearly ageist and needs to stop.

Carolyn Cooper, Age Care Commissioner, highlights the link between hearing loss and dementia at the Grey Power AGM in Wellington. She advocates for increased subsidies for hearing aids to make them more affordable and accessible for older New Zealanders. Learn more about her call for government support in the ‘Audiology and the Silver Wave’ webinar.

Beware of a fake news article circulating online claiming that the New Zealand government plans to abolish state pensions. This alarming report, which mimics the look of legitimate news websites, is part of a sophisticated scam. Learn how to spot the fake and protect yourself from falling victim to these deceptive tactics.

Pensioners and families are cancelling insurance as premiums rise by 25-40%, reports the Northern Advocate. Grey Power's Russell Bird advises seeking alternative quotes and adjusting excess amounts to maintain protection.

Caroline Cooper, Aged Care Commissioner, advocates for improved senior care in New Zealand's health system. Speaking at the Grey Power Federation AGM, she highlighted the need for a senior-focused healthcare strategy and addressed key issues like outdated funding models and access to care.

Grey Power Federation elects Gayle Chambers as new President at AGM in Wellington. With extensive experience in not-for-profits like Cancer Society and Marlborough Hospice Trust, Gayle aims to enhance Grey Power's advocacy for New Zealand seniors.

Grey Power has been lobbying for a change to the inconsistent ways in which GPs are assessing Seniors for Driving Licence renewals around the country. Many seniors are facing stressful testing with cognitive tests that test their memory, rather than their driving ability.

Jan Pentecost QSM, recently retired as President for family & health reasons. She will be sorely missed as a compassionate President of the organisation. A new President will be elected at the Federations AGM in June.

A report released today by the Aged Care Commissioner Carolyn Cooper highlights the need for action to meet the ongoing health and disability care and needs of older people.

With the average funeral in NZ costing $10,000, one man has made it his mission to advocate for simpler less expensive options. Fergus Wheeler formed Death without Debt to advocate for the right to an affordable and dignified funeral that doesn’t financially cripple the family.

The housing crisis is hitting senior renters especially hard, and their numbers are set to double in 25 years. Rachel Judkins explores this unsettling trend.

A growing number of retirees are facing the challenge of renting as they age. For those retirees with limited finances trying to survive on NZ Superannuation, rental payments can easily exceed 60% of their income.

The NZ housing crisis persists. Alan Maxwell highlights the need for downsizing-friendly units to free up family homes.

Four North Island and four South Island 2023 AgedAdvisor awards winners were chosen this year plus one nationwide group winner.

As the General Election approaches, key organisations involved in promoting healthy and respectful ageing and the wellbeing of older people in Aotearoa New Zealand are calling on all political parties to commit to the principles of the United Nation’s Decade of Healthy Ageing and to work collaboratively towards a society where all people can live long and healthy lives.

Pensioners are struggling to survive as inflation pushes the costs of essentials out of reach, forcing many to skip meals just to get by. Aotearoa is grappling with a cost of living crisis as mortgage rates, rents and food prices skyrocket - driven by inflation of 7.2 percent.

Grey Power is an advocacy organisation with a vision for New Zealand to be a country where seniors live in dignity enjoying a rewarding, safe and sustainable quality of life.

Grey Power New Zealand also a range of services to its members, including discounts on a variety of products and services, travel insurance, and a monthly magazine. The organization also offers information and advice to seniors on a range of issues, such as retirement planning, elder abuse, and consumer rights.

Current Issues currently faced by retirees and those over the age of 65 in New Zealand.

Grey Power Federation hold strong positions and recommendations for the future direction of NZ Super Benefits. Read our summaries below, and click through for a more in-depth analysis.

The Cost Of Living Impact on Retirees with those most affected, particularly during periods of high inflation are those with minimal financial reserves in retirement - women with a history of intermittent employment and low savings; those without a mortgage free home; those in rental accommodation; those with disability or poor health..

The Benefits available to Grey Power Members give Grey Power members have access to a range of great discounts and services nationally, as well as others through their local Associations.

The Grey Power Magazine is published quarterly by Bay of Plenty Business Publications for the Grey Power New Zealand Federation Inc. It is the official publication for the federation and its affiliated associations.

Grey Power Electricity is a partnership between the Grey Power Federation and Pulse Energy. Established in 2013, Grey Power Electricity is committed to providing Grey Power Members with low cost electricity, gas, broadband and home phone plans.