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Debt vs delivery: the trust problem behind NZ’s borrowing debate episode artwork

Sep 1, 2026 18 min

Debt vs delivery: the trust problem behind NZ’s borrowing debate

from The SME Stream Hosted by iHeartRadio NZ

New Zealand’s debt burden has nearly doubled in 10 years. But, there are signs the country’s borrowing habits are becoming more sustainable. New Zealand businesses have boosted their borrowings by more than $6 billion in the last year to $143b, which is a potential sign of rising confidence in the economy. So, is debt really as bad as we think – or are the numbers telling a more nuanced story about households, businesses, and the government? Today on The Front Page, NZ Herald business editor-at-large Liam Dann is with us to examine the numbers behind the nation’s march towards $1 trillion in debt. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea Daniels Editor/Producer: Richard Martin Producer: Jane Yee

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Debt vs delivery: the trust problem behind NZ’s borrowing debate

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