$1.7 billion ferry bill leaves every household $820 out of pocket

The New Zealand Taxpayers' Union says the Government's announcement taxpayers will be charged up to $1.7 billion on the ferry fleet raises a fundamental question: why are taxpayers borrowing billions to own and operate a commercial ferry service in the first place?

Taxpayers' Union Executive Director, Jordan Williams, said:

"Every New Zealand household is being charged $820 for these ferries, with no ticket."

"Norway demonstrates you don't need the taxpayer to own ferry companies to provide world-class ferry services. After years of mismanagement, ballooning costs, and millions wasted on consultants, instead of setting course for Scandinavia the Government is steering New Zealand towards a Soviet Russia."

"The Government says it has kept the project within budget – that's welcome, but it's also the bare minimum. What's not been budgeted for is why are taxpayers paying for this in the first place?"