After eight consecutive quarters of decline, New Zealand’s GDP per capita has inched up by 0.4%.Commenting on this, Taxpayers’ Union spokesman James Ross said:“Kiwis can breathe a small sigh of relief, but it’s far from time to pop the champagne. Even after two years of declining living standards, Kiwis are...
The New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union is slamming the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) for its token attempt to trim its bloated workforce, with just 64 jobs on the chopping block.Taxpayers’ Union Spokesman Rhys Hurley said“In 2017, DIA had 2,159 staff. Fast forward to 2024, that number had exploded to 2,871....
Western Bay of Plenty District Council has today voted to leave Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) with one councillor saying it has swung ‘so far left’ that it no longer represented local views. “Western Bay of Plenty is the latest council to ditch the increasingly toxic group” said Sam Warren,...
The New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union can reveal through an Official Information Act request that KiwiRail has spent $87,259 on murals—including a “kitty mural” and various cultural artworks—while Wellington commuters continue to endure delays, cancellations, and fare hikes. Taxpayers’ Union Investigations Coordinator Rhys Hurley said:“Wellington commuters should be fur-ious that KiwiRail is prioritising feel-good pet projects while services...
As part of its Long-term Plan, Wellington City Council wants to apply commercial rates to short-term accommodation providers like Airbnbs. This would see an increase of 3.7 times more than the current rates applied to these properties.“It’s an excuse to get more out of ratepayers” said Sam Warren, the Local Government Manager...
Wellington City Council this week expects to confirm its long-term plan that will include a budget of $437 million for social housing upgrades over the next 10-years.“Many of the houses are in fine shape following recent upgrades by government, and we’re in danger of seeing money spent for the sake...