Given the political, economic, and fiscal constraints facing the New Zealand economy, Budget 2026 is fiscally responsible, BusinessNZ said.
Chief Executive Katherine Rich said the Government has approached Budget 2026 with a restrained, real-world lens.
"BusinessNZ wanted to see a Budget which delivered a credible, long-term economic plan to return New Zealand’s accounts back to surplus,” said Rich.
"The Budget’s priorities reflect careful investment decisions in infrastructure, health, defence, education and business regulatory reform. We are delighted to see a significant investment boost for trades, which should double the amount of trade academy places, and provide free trades training for high-school students.”
As part of their expert analysis provided to members, BusinessNZ’s economists called the Budget 2026 announcement a "responsible budget focused on the fundamentals, while meeting the critical needs of New Zealand’s businesses".
Economist Max Doyle said this series of announcements will allow businesses to remain internationally competitive.
"We’re pleased to see a realistic look at much needed infrastructure, rather than election year ‘sugar hits’."
Chief Economist John Pask said while the key economic indicators were predicted to improve over time, the ability to get back to surplus will be dependent on solid economic growth over the forecast period.
"Given the fraught geopolitical landscape in which this Budget was delivered, these outcomes require an optimistic set of resolutions, some of which are beyond New Zealand’s influence alone."
“We would have loved to have seen the Government jump at this opportunity to help give local businesses a leg up, and even generate some revenue, by increasing the new low-value import levy, or by putting an additional tax on products that don't meet certain ethical and quality standards, such as fast-fashion and low-value goods made in factories with poor working conditions,” Retail NZ Chief Executive, Carolyn Young, said.
“The growing pressure on household budgets and declining consumer confidence has felt hard by retailers too, and our members have been calling for the Government to incentivise New Zealanders to shop in their local communities and show their love for their high streets.”
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