New Zealand's budget was unveiled last week in Wellington, touted as the 'benefit budget' by some and the 'bludger budget' by others.
The highest-ranking ever Pacific MP Carmel Sepuloni delivered those record-high benefit increases, $108 million in the mix solely to support Pasifika communities.
But is that money enough amidst the backdrop of dire health, education and employment statistics for Pacific peoples?
Mariner Fagaiava-Muller has crunched the numbers.
Labour MPs Poto Williams (right) and Aupito William Sio (left) listen to the Minister of Finance Grant Robertson announce funding for Pacific people in his Budget 2021 statement to the House Photo: VNP / Daniela Maoate-Cox
