New Zealand First has announced a policy on Saturday making a temporary boost to the Working for Families in-work tax credits permanent, increasing the payments by $70 a week.
The current $50 tax boost – in place from April 1, 2026 to March 31, 2027 or until the price of 91 petrol is below $3 per litre for four consecutive weeks – would change to $120, taking the total credit to $217 per week for families using the scheme.
NZ First would also make the payments permanent, extending the one-year in-work tax credit indefinitely.
It was estimated to cost between $500 million and $600 million per year, which the party said was worthwhile.
"Parents are working hard and we need to ensure that they have enough to support their children and their families," the party said.
"This policy will turn the temporary relief into a long-term pathway for hard working parents to be able to plan for their families’ future."
In addition to the Working for Families boost, the party pledged to raise the minimum wage yearly to keep up with inflation rates.
NZ First said although the economy is beginning to recover, not enough is being done to assist workers who are struggling.
"We need to look after our workers and ensure that they receive a fair wage for their work," it said.
"Workers need to have the ability to afford the basics without falling behind the rate of inflation – it’s just common sense."
The party believed the new proposals would not only help those who would receive the increased payments, but also local economies.
"[The policy] means more money in the pocket for workers, more ability to afford the basics for their families like rent, food, power, and fuel. It will mean more spending in the local economy and a more productive country on the way to economic recovery."
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