Stronger economy will help Christchurch

Helping support and rebuild Christchurch is among the most important things the Government will do this year, and into the future.

Treasury has provided a preliminary assessment of the earthquake's economic impact, and it is clear it will affect our economy and the Government's books significantly, through both increased costs, and reduced tax revenue.

The Government will balance these costs through a combination of a bit more debt in the short term, and taking a close look at our existing spending priorities. We will work through these issues carefully as we prepare for the 19 May Budget.

The earthquake has made it more important to press ahead with National’s policies to build a faster growing economy based on savings, exports, and productive investment. Building a stronger national economy, more jobs, and higher incomes is the best way we can help the people of Christchurch.

More information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/feature/briefing-costs-earthquake-recovery