Tauranga Chamber of Commerce CEO Max Mason is applauding the 2010 Budget, saying it will keep skilled workers in the Bay of Plenty and boost businesses in the region.
The government announced the company tax rate will be cut from 30 per cent to 28 per cent, to be in line with Australia.

Tauranga Chamber of Commerce CEO Max Mason says tge Budget is a good one.

New Zealand's new company tax rate will start next year, but Australian businesses will have to wait two years for their recently reduced equivalent.
"People thinking about moving to Australia will think twice, and we do need to retain them," says Max.
He says across the board tax cuts will also keep skilled workers in the Bay of Plenty.
"If personal tax rates drop, people are less likely to leave the region. Businesses are more likely to be profitable and more money flows through the economy."
Max says in the short term, many retailers will not be happy about the GST rise.
"But the Budget is a long term one. It's strategic and should even its self out over time, but I do empathise with retailers."
He says many retailers will absorb increases on some items in order to stop prices going above "psychological price barriers".
Max gives the example that some retailers will absorb the GST increase on items selling for $19.90, or $19.99, to stop the price going over $20.

Click here to see public reaction to the Budget on video.

Click here to hear Simon Bridges' reaction to the Budget.

Click here to read Tauranga community organisation reactions to the Budget.

Click here to read Grey Power's reaction to the Budget.