The new government in New Zealand handed down its first full budget and details of its long-promised tax cuts, but as that happened thousands of people rallied for a national day of protest against its policies.
  • In short: The New Zealand government has handed down its 2024 budget, releasing details of highly anticipated tax cuts, while thousands of people rallied across the country to protest against policies considered to be eroding Indigenous rights.
  • Protests in Auckland, Christchurch, Hamilton and a number of regional centres kicked off early in the morning, before a demonstration in Wellington headed to parliament.
  • What’s next? Within the budget were details of highly anticipated tax cuts, something Prime Minister Christopher Luxon campaigned on. They will come into effect on July 31.