The government's recent announcement of a $490 weekly payment for workers whose jobs were lost due to Covid-19 has proved to be a contentious issue for Labour, and has divided public opinion.
The payment would be available for 12 weeks from 8 June for New Zealand citizens or residents who had lost their job as a impact of the virus since 1 March.
Those who apply would be required to actively seek suitable work, and take steps towards employment, including making use of redeployment or training.
Photo: RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King