But unions say Holidays Act overhaul leaves women, casual and part-time workers worse off.
Appearing before a select committee, Mallard explained his $333,000 legal bill.
The government's books expected to be back in surplus in 2024-25.
Officials warn hand-outs could "lessen or distort" tourism operator's incentive to change for the better.
Grant Robertson says the wage subsidy scheme will be continued if future lockdowns are needed.
Housing shortage and low interest rates likely to continue to push house prices up.
The prime minister says travel between NZ and Australia could resume early next year.
Reserve Bank has rejected adding house price instability to its monetary policy remit.
Adding a housing consideration to the bank's monetary policy remit not a good idea, Orr says.
Stuart Nash says a new government unit is looking at the impact of regulations on small businesses.