New Zealand raises the minimum wage at $20 an hour, tax for rich to 39%

These changes will take effect Thursday, along with a slight increase in benefits for the unemployed and the sick. The government estimates that the minimum wage increase will affect 175 thousand workers and salaries across the economy will increase by $256m.

The new tax on rich persons will be valid for all who earn more than $180 thousand a year. This group includes about 2 percent of the country's population. The government estimates that this tax will bring the country additional $550m in revenue this year alone.

According to some statistics, New Zealand's minimum wage has been among the world's top five minimum wages, writes The Guardian, broadcast The Express.

Speaking of the new changes this week, Prime Minister Yacinda Ardern said they fulfil a pre-election promise and present real improvement for the support the government offers to the most endangered persons.

“Ende has much to do, including building more houses, improving our health system, investing in education, training and jobs”, Ardern said.

Her government has sometimes raised the minimum wage over four years. By 2017, the minimum wage has been raised for $4.25 an hour.