Face of the Day

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has indicated asset sales could be included in National’s manifesto for the 2026 election, with government-owned farms among items that might be considered for sale.

The issue was highlighted in the Treasury’s Investment Statement 2025, published last week, describing the state and value of the Crown’s significant assets and liabilities.

Over the past decade, both assets and liabilities had doubled, and become more complex with more entities and asset types, the Treasury said in a statement.

“Without policy change, spending is projected to increase much faster than revenue over the next 40 years, which will put downward pressure on net worth,” the statement said.

“This could reduce the Crown’s ability to borrow to fund investments, provide adequate services to future generations, and maintain a buffer against adverse shocks.”

Stuff