New Zealand First says cuts to grassroots sporting grants hidden deep in the Budget is yet another example of the Government robbing Peter to pay Paul.

Government’s contestable grants for sporting groups and individuals unable to get funding from national sports funders and the Lotteries Commission were cut by 85 per cent.

Sports and Recreation spokesman Brendan Horan says grassroots sport is already suffering from a lack of money and funding cuts will only make matters worse.

“Many sports survive largely on grants, raffle money and the goodwill of volunteers.

“To cut Government funding will worsen their financial situation while at the same time actively dissuading Kiwis from having a healthy, active lifestyle.

“It is indicative of this austerity Budget which is lumping hardship onto Kiwis at every turn,” says Mr Horan.