RNZ political editor Jane Patterson has summarized Budget 23, saying Finance Minister Grant Robertson has increased how much he can spend this year and in the future.
“The Government will also be borrowing more, partly to cover the cost of the cyclone, meaning a return to surplus a year later than originally planned,” says Patterson.
“He argues that the money is there to help with immediate cost pressures, and some like big infrastructure spending with an eye to the future.
“National has dubbed it the Budget Blow-out, with the government spending more and not getting tax relief.
“It says New Zealanders are already paying for this government’s spending addiction and this budget will mean higher interest rates for longer.”
The government has presented its so-called “no frills” Budget 2023, focusing on the cost of living and building better infrastructure in the face of climate change.
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