9 Dec 2025

The Richardson v Willis fiscal boxing match

From Nights, 8:10 pm on 9 December 2025

Nicola Willis has challenged former National Party Finance Minister Ruth Richardson to debate the country's books at Parliament.

The Taxpayers' Union is poised to launch a "pressure campaign" targeting Willis in an effort to convince her to cut spending and reduce debt.

Heading into National's caucus meeting on Tuesday morning, Willis said it was clear the campaign was being driven by Richardson, who is chair of the Taxpayers' Union.

Deputy political editor at The Post Henry Cooke joins Emile Donovan.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis (left) has challenged her predecessor Ruth Richardson

Finance Minister Nicola Willis (left) has challenged her predecessor Ruth Richardson. Photo: RNZ/Reece Baker/Supplied