PremiumEditorialEditorialNZ Herald29 May, 2026 05:00 PM4 mins to readFinance Minister Nicola Willis receiving a standing ovation from her colleagues after reading her Budget 2026 in the House. Photo / Mark MitchellFinance Minister Nicola Willis receiving a standing ovation from her colleagues after reading her Budget 2026 in the House. Photo / Mark MitchellKiwis should have received the message loud and clear: There was never a magic money tree. We do not have to be told that these are indeed straitened times to live in, and most understand a certain amount of pragmatism and realism is not only wise, but necessary.