Taxpayers’ Union welcomes Minister Willis’ fuel support but warns “no borrowing” claim doesn’t stack up

The Taxpayers’ Union is welcoming Finance Minister Nicola Willis’ support to ease pressure on low-income households during the fuel crisis, but says the Government cannot claim it comes without any borrowing at all.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson Tory Relf said:

"Targeted and temporary relief can be fiscally responsible, but the framing doesn’t pass the sniff test."

“Kiwis are being hammered at the pump, so some short-term relief is entirely reasonable. But let’s not pretend this is cost-free; taxpayers will still be footing the bill.”

“Minister Willis’ commitment to baking the cost in Budget 2026’s operating allowance is important, but with a $2.4 billion operating allowance still funded through deficits, calling this ‘no borrowing’ is a stretch."

“If it’s funded from a deficit, it’s still going on the taxpayers’ credit card.”

"The Government was elected on a mandate to cut the inflated costs of government, including the enormous number of bureaucrats hired by the last administration. If Nicola Willis followed through, she wouldn't be borrowing for day-to-day spending, including today's support package."