How about doing something to raise wages before tax?!
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10712067
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10712067
We recognise that higher prices put an extra financial burden on households. That's why we are focused on lifting after-tax wages and limiting price increases...