As we move rapidly towards the end of the year, we tend to reflect on what has gone on in the past 12 months and look forward to what will hopefully be a better 2025. I do not know of anyone who has not been affected in some way by the overall state of the country, particularly the state of our economy and where we are heading.

One of the unique things about the way our electoral process works is that, in the first year of office, the government of the day makes excuses and blames the previous administration for many of its woes. In year two, 2025, in this case, it can afford to do many things that could make it unpopular, knowing there is year three – election year – to make amends. Unfortunately, we all tend to have short memories when it comes to voting, so as long as we see evidence of progress during election year, the pain experienced in previous years tends to be forgotten.

For me, 2024 has had few highlights but has had a number of disappointments. High on the list is now what looks to be the parting of the ways of the two main industry representative groups. I held onto hope that common sense would prevail but, alas, that was not to be. Each group appears to be heading down opposing paths now; how much this impacts the industry will only be apparent over time. I read in a story in The Post on 1 November that one of the industry associations is now saying that because of the slow economy, there is no driver shortage; others may see things differently.

Another disappointment has been the planned reorganisation of how industry training is managed, and we await the final outcome of the minister’s deliberations to see which way this will go.

A highlight of 2024 has been the acknowledgment of the value roading and trucks make to the economy. But words are cheap. It is actions that prove whoever said the words were sincere. We await anxiously to see the real work start.

As a frequent user of our health system, I can confirm it needs urgent action, and it needs it now, not next year or the year after but now! When one has to wait three or four weeks to get an appointment to see a doctor, something is definitely wrong. Our education system is not much better either – the school truancy rate is an example of this.

I have said it before and will no doubt keep saying it for some time that there are far too many groups involved in having a say in our vital needs, health, including mental health, education and whatever else is good for you. Given many of these groups are all working towards similar outcomes but heading down different tracks to get there, a degree of rationalisation is surely required.

Surely, the outcome is the most important thing here, not the ideology of the people involved in getting to the outcome? We will never know just how much money is consumed heading towards go instead of getting past it and really making a measurable difference. I suspect it will be millions.

This time last year, I expressed a hope, forlornly as it transpired, that 2024 would be a bit better than 2023. Maybe, just maybe, 2025 will be bit better than 2024. But, as mentioned, it being the middle year of the election cycle, my hope for 2025 may also be hopelessly misplaced. But then, we have the local body elections, which may give some ray of hope, especially if you happen to live in Wellington.

To each and every one you who have battled on through this last year, regardless of the obstacles thrown in your way, thank you. Although largely unrewarded, the country would not have survived without each and every one of your efforts.

I hope you all have a good Christmas and, if you can, take a break, make the most of it and stay safe. On behalf of all New Zealanders, thank you.