$6.3 million bill for Michelin-star spendup

The Taxpayers’ Union is criticising the Government’s decision to spend $6.3 million to bring the Michelin Guide to New Zealand, calling it a lavish subsidy for top-tier restaurants.

Taxpayers’ Union spokesman James Ross, said:

“At a time when the Government are trying to find savings and Kiwis are battling through a cost-of-living crisis, chucking $6.3 million away so fine diners can get a Michelin star dinner is a bad look.”

“Gambling on tens of thousands of visitors deciding to hop on a long-haul flight for their next meal is not responsible spending. It’s even more bizarre for Tourism New Zealand to fritter away millions, barely a year after slapping the sort of tax hike on international visitors which stops people holidaying here.”

“If the Government wants to support tourism and hospitality, there are far better ways to do that which benefit the whole economy. For starters, capping rates, which would provide relief for one of businesses’ fasting growing cost increases.”