Government Must Sell Entire Stake In Air New Zealand

Responding to news that the Government is considering a market study into the aviation sector while retaining a controlling stake in its largest player, the New Zealand Taxpayers’ Union is calling on the Government to sell its entire stake in Air New Zealand.

Taxpayers’ Union Spokesman, James Ross, said:

“It’s a farce for the Government to claim this review will be fair and impartial while it continues to hold a majority share in Air New Zealand. You can’t be both referee and player, it’s a blatant conflict of interest.”

“If the Government is serious about improving competition and lowering fares, the first step is simple: get out of the way. Air New Zealand should be a private company competing on a level playing field, not a political pet project dressed up as market participation.”

“Every state asset should be under scrutiny. If private ownership is likely to deliver better service and lower costs, then the Government has no business holding on. Selling Air New Zealand would not only boost competition but also reduce taxpayers’ exposure to commercial risk.”

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