This year’s budget allocation for health echoes most past budgets. It implies there is significant investment and earmarks some specific areas that will receive additional support. But in reality, this is a cutback budget signalling continued austerity.
The government is right that health receives the largest share of investment among categories, some NZ$34.2 billion, up from $31 billion in 2025. This represents an increase of about 10% and makes a good sales pitch.
