The Government’s piddly minimum wage bump is a pay cut in real terms for New Zealanders.

“Just like Christopher Luxon, this Government’s minimum wage bump is weak and shows just how out of touch they are. This doesn’t keep up with the rising cost of living at all,” Labour workplace relations and safety spokesperson Jan Tinetti said.

“With the prices for basics like food and energy skyrocketing, a two percent bump simply doesn’t keep up.

“Milk is up 13 percent and eggs are up nearly 20 percent. Power and gas bills are going up too, which is a huge cost to businesses and families. New Zealand is going backwards under this Government.

“If National were serious about helping businesses, they’d get real about the rising cost of living and start investing in people and businesses. Nearly 200 Kiwis are leaving a day because jobs are disappearing and they can’t afford to live here.

“New Zealand cannot afford another three years of National. Labour will prioritise real action on the cost of living, including three free doctor’s visits for all New Zealanders,” Jan Tinetti said.