Hipkins says Labour doesn't want to toll existing roads - but Labour MPs voted for it in November

In answering questions about the proposed Auckland Harbour Bridge Toll yesterday, Chris Hipkins told media: "Tolling a new road is something Labour has been open to previously, tolling an existing road is something we've been opposed to".

"But that's a porkie pie,” points out the Taxpayers’ Union.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesperson, Tory Relf, said:

“Right now, the Government has a Bill before the Parliament to give Ministers the powers to toll existing roads - effectively changing tolls to taxes - and the replace the status quo of tolls only being applied to new roads. Despite what Mr Hipkins now claims, Labour voted for it."

"The election is nine months away, but Chris Hipkins is gaslighting New Zealanders when it comes to tax."

"It's bad enough 'no new taxes’ National aren't ruling out the proposal, but at least they're honest about it."

"In a cost of living crisis, Kiwis cannot afford new taxes, levies, or tolls. Hipkins says he knows so, but actions speak louder than words."