"Today we have laid the foundation for not just one wellbeing budget, but a different approach for government decision-making altogether." Wellbeing indicators, such as life expectancy, education levels, air quality and "a sense of belonging" were also factored into budget decisions. Ardern argued the wellbeing approach provides real-world benefits, citing reducing child poverty and family violence as a practical example of how it works. But her positive message was almost overshadowed by a bureaucratic bungle that resulted in the early release of budget information and an unfortunate choice of photograph to illustrate the document. Actress Vicky Freeman, who was on a stock photo used on the budget, said she left New Zealand in December because it was so expensive.

Source: Bangkok Post May 30, 2019 07:30 UTC