27 Apr 2023

Existing tax system 'broadly fair' - Christopher Luxon

From Morning Report, 7:45 am on 27 April 2023

The National Party leader is adamant the existing tax system is 'broadly fair', despite the discrepancy found between the effective tax rates paid by the very rich and average people.

An IRD investigation has found the wealthiest families pay less than half the rate of tax, across all forms of income, that most other New Zealanders do.

That includes unrealised gains such as property, businesses and stocks, which have a value only on paper until they are sold.

Christopher Luxon told Morning Report the progressive tax system is the right way to go.

He says the government, not wealthy people, is to blame for the current economic situation.