Nicola Willis: Finance Minister says growth and higher wages will come following Budget 2026

The surplus train's left the station early in Budget news today, with the country expected to be out of deficit by 2028/29, a year ahead of predictions. Government Ministers are trumpeting that figure, alongside a focus on health and infrastructure.  The Waikato Expressway will get 12 more kilometres, Whangarei a new hospital wing and new police stations are on the horizon for Whanganui and Greymouth.  The biggest surprise is a tax on banks and insurers, worth roughly $50 million dollars a year.  The bowel cancer screening age will lower to 56 by September and increased health funding aims to increase surgeries and reduce wait times.  $450 million has been set aside for targeted support, in case  the fuel crisis worsens.  Finance Minister Nicola Willis says things are tough - but its not the time for lolly scrambles.  She says the crisis is hitting many hard - but the country will bounce back with growth and increasing wages.  LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.