Taxpayers’ Union launches campaign against Nicola Willis over fiscal promises

Thursday 11 December 2025 · 4 outlets · 5 reports · updated Thu 11 Dec 2025, 4:05pm

In this story Nicola Willis, Taxpayers' Union, Ruth Richardson

The Taxpayers’ Union has launched a campaign accusing Finance Minister Nicola Willis of failing to meet spending promises. A dispute has also emerged regarding a proposed debate between Willis and former finance minister Ruth Richardson, with both parties accusing the other of attempting to avoid the discussion.

How they headlined it

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1. StuffThu 11 Dec 2025, 9:51am

   ‘We cannot continue like that’: Why Ruth Richardson says Nicola Willis is fudging the numbers (opens in new tab)

2. The Press via The PostThu 11 Dec 2025, 11:45am

   Taxpayers’ Union launch ‘fudge’ campaign against Nicola Willis - and say she is trying to get out of debate (opens in new tab)

   • Taxpayers’ Union attempt to force Nicola Willis into debate on Newstalk ZB, not in Parliament (opens in new tab) Thu 11 Dec 2025, 3:07pm
3. NZ HeraldThu 11 Dec 2025, 3:13pm

   ‘Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right’: Nicola Willis hits back as debate reaches deadlock (opens in new tab)

4. RNZThu 11 Dec 2025, 4:05pm

   'Clowns to the left, jokers to the right': Willis-Richardson debate in doubt after ultimatum (opens in new tab)