The government considered but rejected wealth tax, says Chris Hipkins

The government considered but rejected wealth tax, says Chris Hipkins
The government sought advice on wealth taxes before Chris Hipkins took the reins in January. (Image: Getty)
Pattrick Smellie
Prime minister Chris Hipkins has confirmed the government was examining whether it could implement a wealth tax in this year’s budget, but that he canned the idea.The confirmation came in a statement from Hipkins as Labour party leader rather than prime minister and included a pledge that “there will be no wealth or capital gains tax after the election”.“End of story.”Hipkins said “experimenting with a wealth tax” went against the government’s focus on delivering “certainty and continuity&rd...

More Policy

MoT to gauge market interest in toll road concessions
Policy

MoT to gauge market interest in toll road concessions

Investment bank Citi will assist the ministry. Transurban has already signalled interest.

Govt announces first three 'regional deal' contenders
Policy

Govt announces first three 'regional deal' contenders

Ministers want regions to consider 'asset recycling', among other funding tools.

Oliver Lewis 02 Jul 2025
‘Bluewater backbone’: Lyttelton, Auckland ports plan $1b+ of upgrades
Policy

‘Bluewater backbone’: Lyttelton, Auckland ports plan $1b+ of upgrades

Two of the biggest NZ ports are raising prices as they plan major investments.

Oliver Lewis 02 Jul 2025
'There are some firms in NZ I won’t touch'
Policy

'There are some firms in NZ I won’t touch'

Adam Feeley on the reluctance to call out poor performers in NZ infrastructure sector.

Oliver Lewis 30 Jun 2025