There were 102 fewer people on benefits in the Wanganui district in the September quarter compared to the same time last year, welfare figures reveal.
The figures made it clear that the Government's welfare reforms were working, said Whanganui MP Chester Borrows.
"The reforms mean more people are getting the help they need to get off benefits and into work," he said. "Intensive support, such as help with childcare and study, has made getting into the workforce an achievable goal."
A total of 73 fewer people were on a benefit in the South Taranaki district in the three months to September compared to the same quarter in 2013, the figures also revealed.
Mr Borrows said benefit numbers were tracking downwards nationwide, with 10,000 fewer people on welfare compared to September 2013 More than 70 per cent were sole parents. The September 2014 figure was the lowest since 2008.
"These figures show our reforms are working to break the cycle of welfare dependency some families are trapped in.
"This means the headway we are making now will pay off for generations," he said. "Getting off welfare and into work means a better life, better opportunities, and a brighter future for the people of Whanganui and South Taranaki and their families."
People could look forward to increased choices brought by financial independence, Mr Borrows said.