Simon Bridges pressured Jacinda Ardern over the "downward trajectory" of the New Zealand economy during question time in Parliament today.
The Prime Minister says while growth rates have slowed since the Government took power, the economy is performing well when compared to other countries.
"Yes, there is a slowdown happening everywhere but relative to what other economies are experiencing ours is not to the degree that others are," Ms Ardern said.
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters then jumped to the Government's defence, asking a question of Ms Ardern.
"Is it a fact that the growth rate in New Zealand was 0.6 per cent, whereas in Australia right next door it was 0.2 per cent?"
"Yes," the Prime Minister replied.
Mr Bridges then contended that it was not only international factors which have contributed to a slowing economy but also domestic Government policy.
Ms Ardern stated it is exactly the opposite and stimulus packages such as the families package and Provincial Growth Fund have kept New Zealand ahead of other economies.
"Can I get this right, is it the eight jobs created by the Provincial Growth Fund that is saving our economy at this time?" Mr Bridges then asked.
"I reject the premise of the question," Ms Ardern shot back.
Today is the first time the two leaders faced off in the House since the Christchurch terrorist attacks on March 15.
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