National backtracks on Queenstown bed tax deal, stalling regional agreements
The Government has reversed its position on an accommodation levy for Queenstown, prompting regional councils to pause negotiations on wider regional deals.
National has abandoned its plan for a bed tax in Queenstown, causing Otago councils to pause discussions on a broader regional deal. The three councils are now seeking clarification on what alternatives the Government will explore instead of the accommodation levy. Mayors have expressed disappointment as talks have officially stalled, with signing delayed for a second time. The Government's coalition partner Act has criticised the U-turn.
Covered byRNZNZ HeraldNewstalk ZBOtago Daily TimesNot covered byStuff1NewsNewsroomThe SpinoffBusinessDeskinterest.co.nz
Coverage across the news outlets we track, as at publication.
What outlets are saying
Otago Daily Times
Closed door meetings on regional deal after National’s bed tax U-turn
RNZ
Otago councils pause regional deals after National backtracks on bed tax
The three Otago councils say they are now seeking clarification about what will be explored as an alternative to the accommodation levy.
Otago Daily Times
Bed tax U-turn puts regional deal in limbo
NZ Herald
Act criticises National after Luxon’s party changes Queenstown bed tax deal
Act's Queenstown-based MPs offer to meet with mayors over National's bed tax U-turn.
Newstalk ZB
Act criticises National after Luxon’s party changes Queenstown bed tax deal
Otago mayors have expressed disappointment as talks about the Queenstown deal have officially stalled, with a date for it to be signed put off a second time.