Election asks: Tax

We asked political parties about tax and building a strong revenue base to fund the government.

These are the questions we sent. When we get responses from the parties, we’ll add them to this page.

Will you…

Ensure that public services are sufficiently funded, by increasing the total tax taken?

 

Reform the tax system so that it is more progressive and that profit is taxed the same way that wages are?

The results are in 

Here is what the parties had to say 

Question  Greens  Labour  National 
Ensure that public services are sufficiently funded, by increasing the total tax taken? Yes Yes, we will continue to make sure the public service is sufficiently funded. 

This question presents a false dichotomy. National will deliver the quality public services New Zealanders deserve while also delivering tax relief.    

To achieve this, National will stop wasteful spending across government; and ensure that funding is prioritised towards the frontline – where it will have the most impact for New Zealanders.    

National will grow the economy so that the funding available for public services grows over time.   
Reform the tax system so that it is more progressive and that profit is taxed the same way that wages are? Yes 

Now is not the time for widespread changes to our tax system.

Our focus is on doing what we can to support Kiwi families in a tight global economic environment.

The cost of living is the biggest issue facing New Zealanders in this election.

Cutting GST from fruit and vegetables and boosting Working for Families will ease the pressure on families as we get through this inflationary cycle.

Labour’s 10-point cost of living package also includes free prescriptions, 20 hours free ECE for two-year[1]olds, and free or half price public transport for children and young people – and more to come.

 National will implement tax cuts to allow hard working Kiwis to keep more of what they earn – almost $40 a week for a family with two average-wage earners, and up to $75 a week to help with child care costs.