Ministers incorrect about benefit cuts following law change

Friday 28 August 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated Fri 28 Aug, 10:25am

In this story Christopher Luxon, Louise Upston

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Social Development Minister Louise Upston told Parliament that no benefits were cut after a recent law change. However, reports indicate that people did lose benefit payments due to paperwork issues caused by the new legislation.

How they headlined it

9:18am10:25am

1. Otago Daily TimesFri 28 Aug, 9:18am

   Another bungle over benefits (opens in new tab)

2. 1News via RNZFri 28 Aug, 10:25am

   PM and Upston said no benefits were cut after law change - they were wrong (opens in new tab)