Simon Watts: Auckland Minister says Budget 2026 delivers for Auckland, despite Mayor's pessimism

The Government says this year's budget especially strengthens Auckland's role as New Zealand's economic engine room. They point out that they're investing in health, including funding to purchase land for a future South Auckland Hospital, and a share of the Government's $5.5-billion health package. Additionally, they highlight plans for housing growth with a new $400-million fund for councils to enable more homes. Lastly, they're putting aside a billion for rail improvements, and another billion for school upgrades.  But Mayor Wayne Brown says the devil is in the detail - and we'll need more clarity into a timeline of these initiatives, along with an explanation of how the Government's funding their share of the CRL. So what do these investments actually mean for Aucklanders - and how confident can we be in keeping a globally competitive city?  Minister for Auckland Simon Watts talks to Tim Beveridge to discuss... LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.