How dare ex-National leader Simon Bridges talk about shortening Kiwi’s Christmas holidays.

Bridges, head of the Auckland Business Chamber, told the press that there was “objective merit” in the idea that New Zealand’s summer holiday break is both too long and in the wrong place.

“There is a view that New Zealand just shuts down not just for Christmas and New Year but in many cases all the way through to March,” he said.

What a load off codswallop! Most Kiwis get two weeks’ leave if that – especially those in the retail, hospitality or tourism industries. Even our work cleaner told us the other day she’s back on January 1 after a few days off.

Moreover, it seems a bit rich coming from Bridges – an ex political party leader – that Kiwis should be taking less leave at this time of year when Parliament closes for the summer for about six weeks! Bridges enjoyed this bargain for the best part of 14 years – his parliamentary career!

And Luxon told the press back in 2023 that he planned to shorten the Parliamentary close down period over summer.

He told Morning Report when the new government was formed, Parliament would run for longer before Christmas and he expected it would need to start earlier in the new year. Has this ever happened?

Both of these men are comfortable and can take leave from their chosen careers at any time they choose. Most Kiwis take what precious time they are offered to hold down their jobs to pay for the ever-increasing costs of living in New Zealand. How very out of touch Bridges is.

K Moreland, Katikati.