Budget 2026 has been unveiled, and Finance Minister Nicola Willis has confirmed this is a 'careful' Budget with an eye to the future.

Healthcare, education, and infrastructure are the top priorities, and the Government's forecasting an earlier than expected return to surplus. 

There's also a new levy on banks and other financial market participants from mid-2027.

Infometrics Chief Executive Brad Olsen says it illustrates a targeted approach. 

"There is a much greater focus on user pays, so instead of just general taxes paying for stuff, if you're using a service, if you're getting a benefit - you're paying for a whole lot more as well."

Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Labour's been waiting to see how much money's in the kete - before announcing its election policies. 

He says there's clearly not much.

"I think this Government's resisted, probably against a number of odds, of maybe offering a few tantalising pieces, to go towards the election."

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Budget 2026 has been unveiled, and Finance Minister Nicola Willis has confirmed this is a 'careful' Budget with an eye to the future.
Healthcare, education, and infrastructure are the top priorities, and the Government's forecasting an earlier than expected return to surplus.&nbsp;
There's also a new levy on banks and other financial market participants from mid-2027.
Infometrics Chief Executive Brad Olsen says it illustrates a targeted approach.&nbsp;
"There is a much greater focus on user pays, so instead of just general taxes paying for stuff, if you're using a service, if you're getting a benefit - you're paying for a whole lot more as well."
Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent Barry Soper says Labour's been waiting to see how much money's in the kete - before announcing its election policies.&nbsp;
He says there's clearly not much.
"I think this Government's resisted, probably against a number of odds, of maybe offering a few tantalising pieces, to go towards the election."
LISTEN ABOVE

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We’re bringing you an exciting new era on Newstalk ZB with Matt Heath &amp; Tyler Adams Afternoons.
With years of media and broadcast experience between them, this team brings a fresh and unique perspective to your weekdays.
Matt and Tyler dive into the latest news stories, share their opinions, and engage with their listeners weekdays on Newstalk ZB.

Matt Heath and Tyler Adams dive into the latest news stories, share their opinions, and engage with their listeners weekdays on Newstalk ZB.

Matt Heath & Tyler Adams Afternoons

Brad Olsen and Barry Soper: Infometrics Principal Economist and Newstalk ZB senior political correspondent recap Budget 2026

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/7eb5d8d4-1397-4566-b367-b45800432291/transcript