Parliament's smaller parties say they do not plan to scale back their policies, in the face of deteriorating economic conditions.
Treasury is forecasting a cash deficit of nearly $6 billion this financial year rising to $7.3 billion by 2013.
Finance Minister Michael Cullen has warned that all political parties have to be realistic about what they're promising voters in the run-up to the election.
The Maori Party says removing GST on food, and having income below $25,000 tax free, are policy goals, but they will be subject to negotiation after the election.
The Green Party says its plan for more public transport funding could be reallocated from existing money.
United Future says the temptation to promise big spending policies must be avoided.
