Auckland’s poor hit hardest by new tax

The poorest Aucklanders will be hurt the most by Phil Twyford’s new fuel tax, says ACT Leader David Seymour.

Auckland Council today voted in favour of a regional fuel tax.

“The Finance Minister doled out $40 a week to many families with children in his ‘Families Package’.

“Now the Transport Minister will take back the equivalent of four weeks’ worth of payments with a new tax that will cost the average household $160 a year”, says Mr Seymour.

“The Government’s regulatory impact statement shows the poor will be the hardest hit for three reasons.

“They use more fuel given they often live further from the city centre.

“They are less likely to have electric and newer fuel efficient vehicles meaning they use even more fuel.

“Finally, higher fuel costs will increase the price of everyday goods and services.

“This is a regressive tax that would be unnecessary if central and local government were better able to manage their finances, and cut wasteful spending”, says Mr Seymour.

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