NZ first proposes dropping GST on petrol

Winston Peters

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters has proposed dropping GST on petrol.

Mr Peters said this would lower the cost of petrol by 15 cents a litre for regular unleaded petrol.

He estimated this would put the same amount in the average household's pocket as National's tax cuts.

New Zealand First also promised to cut the corporate tax rate to 30 cents and raise the minimum wage incrementally to $12 an hour.

Mr Peters said the policy would lift wages to first world standards through a vibrant and growing economy.

"New Zealand First offers all New Zealanders a clear alternative to the extreme creeping bureaucracy and over-taxation of Labour and National's tax cuts for the rich," he said.

Cutting GST on petrol would lead to cheaper goods on shelves because of lower transport costs.

NZ First has already proposed exporters paying lower taxes -- 20 per cent -- on earnings.

Mr Peters said that he would consider more tax cuts but only after it became clear that there was enough money available to increase police numbers, social spending and increased investment in infrastructure.

- NZPA