Since GST was established in 1986 at a rate of 10 per cent it has had one increase. In 1989 it was raised to 12.5 per cent and there it stayed for 21 years. In Thursday's Budget, Finance Minister Bill English announced that it was to increase to 15 per cent.
This increase may not seem a huge amount when measured against cuts in income and company tax, but will surely be felt by many people.

SunLive visited the Gate Pa Shopping Centre soon after the announcement was made and asked people there, 'What impact will raising GST to 15 per cent have on you?'

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

Click here to read Tauranga Chamber of Commerce CEO Max Mason's 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.