Treasury's Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update has painted a concerning picture for the Government books.
It forecasted the deficit will peak at $16.9 billion dollars, and only drop to $60 million in the 2029-2030 financial year.
Independent economist Cameron Bagrie says this forecast doesn't come with many surprises.
"If you look at the bigger picture, we're now going to have a decade of deficits. And if you look at the last two years, the situation's actually been worsening."
LISTEN ABOVE

Enda Brady: UK correspondent on King Charles and Queen Camilla beginning their visit with Donald Trump
03:31

Paul Bloxham: HSBC Chief Economist on Australia and New Zealand looking to lift rates amid ongoing fuel crisis
05:16

Jamie Mackay: The Country host on what the India FTA means for Kiwi farmers
03:51