The Government is set to give away tens of millions in 'winter energy payments' to well-off older New Zealanders, says ACT Leader David Seymour.

“Almost 9 per cent of superannuitants earn over $60,000 a year – more than New Zealand’s median income and three times the pension.

“Yet the Government will give tens of millions to this group because it believes they need help to pay their power bills.

“This epitomises a Government that taxes with impunity, sprays money about, and doesn’t think about the objectives it’s trying to achieve.

“Of course we must help those who are in genuine need. But it is irresponsible for the Government to give taxpayer money to the wealthiest New Zealanders.

“One of the reasons we haven’t been able to cut taxes in New Zealand is because political parties of all stripes are addicted to giving away handouts.

“Rather than the Government sneakily taxing New Zealanders and then showering favoured groups with benefits, ACT believes we should allow Kiwis – as far as possible – to keep what they’ve earned”, says Mr Seymour.

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