Pay equity: Union says cost of reinstating old regime is $6b, but Treasury warns figure ‘misleading’

Political Editor·NZ Herald·21 Aug, 2026 05:00 PM5 mins to read‌Protesters show their opposition to pay equity regime changes made by the coalition Government in the 2025 Budget. Photo / Marty MelvilleA new analysis argues that reverting to the old pay equity regime might cost the Government about half as much as previous estimates. The analysis is based on Treasury commentary showing the previous regime contributed to faster economic growth and higher wages, which collectively boosted tax revenue. Although Treasury