Govt lays down challenge with latest round of spending cuts

Govt lays down challenge with latest round of spending cuts
The balancing the books challenge has been issued. (Image: NZME)
Jem Traylen
In announcing $4 billion of spending cuts, the government was not only pre-empting criticism of its financial management but sending a clear message about the affordability of other parties’ promises.Chief in their sights are the tax cuts National is campaigning on – the prime minister and minister of finance described these as unfunded and uncosted while putting their own costing on them of $10b+ over the forecast period (the current financial year plus the next three).Prime minister Chris Hipkins said all political parties could s...

More Policy

Fast-track panels not out of blocks yet
Policy

Fast-track panels not out of blocks yet

The first three projects to go through the process are still waiting on panels.

Airfare reporting not ready for takeoff
Policy

Airfare reporting not ready for takeoff

Airport group says transparency measure should have a chilling effect on fares.

Oliver Lewis 09 Apr 2025
'The Great Privatisation': a NZ perspective
Economy

'The Great Privatisation': a NZ perspective

KPMG partner sees value in considering asset recycling to fund new infrastructure.

Oliver Lewis 09 Apr 2025
Hawkesby appointed RBNZ governor for six months
Policy

Hawkesby appointed RBNZ governor for six months

Finance Minister Nicola Willis has appointed Christian Hawkesby, acting Reserve Bank of New Zealand governor, as governor for six months.Hawkesby’s appointment was recommended by the Reserve Bank of NZ (RBNZ) board.Previously, he was deputy governor.The appointment is effective o...

Staff reporters 08 Apr 2025