Our Finance Minister says the Crown's books look good -- despite challenges in the global economy

For the 11 months to the end of May 2022, the Operating Balance before Gains and Losses deficit was 5.5 billion below what was forecast in the latest budget.

Core expenses were also 1.4 billion below what was forecast -- and tax revenue was three percent higher.

But, it's not all good news ... with net debt 4.3 billion dollars higher than predicted - largely attributed to weaker market conditions.

Grant Roberston says they're working hard to shield Kiwis from the impacts of global headwinds -- while carefully managing Government accounts.