Leaders' blog: Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Helen Clark's log: 04-11-2008

Before last night's leaders debate on TV3, I took time out to visit the Huhtamaki Packaging Factory in Henderson.

I was given a tour of the factory where they make a range of paper and plastic products for fresh foods and drinks. There was time to chat with workers in the cafeteria. The media entourage didn't seem impressed they had to wear work overcoats, hairnets and earplugs!

The cafeteria gathering was a great chance to talk about a lot of the issues people will be thinking about as we approach polling day.

I talked about the international financial situation which will have an impact on us, and the plans that Labour has for ensuring that New Zealand families come through this with the best support possible. Jobs creation is a core feature of our plans to bring forward infrastructure spending - the last thing we want to see is unemployment take off again.

I asked workers to think about the choice they have this weekend. Under my proven leadership and record, Labour has ensured New Zealand is in good shape to weather the impact of the international economic downturn. This is no time to try out somebody they are not sure they can trust.

I talked about Labour's commitment to Kiwibank, KiwiRail, KiwiSaver - the latter which would be stripped out under National. As always it was a good opportunity to talk to people about the issues that matter to them.

What to watch for today: Cabinet and a visit to Upper Hutt.

Helen Clark

 

John Key's log: 04-11-2008

It was an exciting day for me in South Auckland yesterday when I announced a trades academy at the Southern Cross campus and National got endorsements from two sporting greats. Former All Blacks Michael Jones and Inga Tuigamala joined me at the campus, which is a decile one state school in Mangere, for the announcement of $6 million to build the new trades academy for the South Auckland area.

I was particularly excited at this announcement, because quality education is something I care passionately about.

I am keen for a National-led Government to fund four more of these trades academies in the first term of a new government.

The reaction from children at the school was amazing, with many crowding around and asking for my autograph.

I was also pleased to get the endorsement of Michael and Inga for the direction that National wants to take the country in.

Although we have traditionally not enjoyed a great level of support from Pacific Island communities, I think that this could change.

Michael and Inga said yesterday that they shared many of the values in common with National.

Pacific Island communities will make up an increasingly important part of the country's future.

Today I am campaigning in Tauranga and Rotorua.

John Key