Finance Minister wants to save $2.4b through merging departments and AI efficiencies. Union calls it ‘wilful destruction’.
Auckland and the rest of the country to also move into the new Covid-19 traffic light framework.
Current debt levels are prudent but Treasury warns debt could grow significantly by 2060.
UPDATED: Ministry of Health says high website traffic triggered automated restrictions.
Strong general support for ALR project but National Party and Act oppose it.
Prime Minister says new framework offers more protection than alert level system.
David Parker is ‘astounded’ Act does not support housing supply legislation.
Commitment also made to reduce fossil fuel subsidies.
National's Nicola Willis nails government agency over possible political impartiality.
But Damien O’Connor says New Zealand has shown flexibility and the EU enthusiasm for a deal.