The number of people receiving benefits in Tauranga has dropped by seven per cent in the last 12 months, according to the latest figures.

Tauranga MP Simon Bridges says there were 7530 people on benefits in the Tauranga area at the end of June, compared to the 8076 this time last year – a decrease of 546.

Photo: File.

The current Deputy Leader of the House says behind these figures are Tauranga people getting into employment or study and families getting ahead with more money in their pockets.

'Most importantly though, parents getting off welfare improves the futures of their children with less risk of getting stuck in the welfare trap themselves,” says Simon.

'More parents are now able to make a valuable contribution to the economy and their children can thrive in families with working role models.”

He says Tauranga Work and Income staff have been working hard to support people into work and National's welfare reforms have put in place the type of support people need.

This includes help with childcare and study, which makes getting into work an achievable goal.

Nationwide, benefit numbers continue to track downwards with 8237 fewer people on a benefit at the end of June 2015 compared to a year ago.

'This is the lowest June quarter since June 2008,” adds Simon. 'Sole parents lead the way with a 6.5 per cent reduction nationally.

'Getting off welfare and into work means a better life, more opportunities and a brighter future for Tauranga people and their families.”

Tauranga MP Simon Bridges. Photo: File.