When we look back over the political history of New Zealand during the past four decades, it is difficult not to wonder how we have arrived at the political environment we find ourselves in today.
We have experienced governments of considerable ability, governments of questionable judgement and governments that, in my opinion, have allowed political ideology to take precedence over the practical responsibilities of governing a country.
Do we want a country governed by economic theories, political slogans and ideological loyalty? Or do we want one governed by practical experience, financial competence, compassion and a genuine understanding of the people who live here?