A former Finance Minister says many people aren't feeling economic relief - despite positive markers

The Prime Minister is giving his State of the Nation speech at the International Convention Centre in Auckland this afternoon.

Newstalk ZB understands Chris Luxon will try to draw attention away from turbulent affairs overseas - and back to the Government's successes at home.

But Steven Joyce says it's important for Luxon to level with the public.

He suggests not to oversell the positive signs - and to focus on people's realities.