The demographic clock is ticking faster

Political parties can no longer kick the can down the road on the fiscal impact of an ageing population. (Image: Depositphotos)

Cameron Bagrie

Tue, 30 Sep 2025

The 2025 Long Term Statement on the Fiscal Position – a four-yearly document – didn’t shy away from the obvious.New Zealand’s current policies are not fiscally sustainable for the long term and would result in Government debt rising to around 200% of gross domestic product (GDP).We face tough choices.We've known that for decades, so at face value, it's nothing new.The latest document was notable on numerous levels, though. The document had more analytical grunt. The options and choices were more detailed relative...

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