New Zealand's Opportunity party is gaining traction with a proposal for a universal basic income, dubbed a “citizen’s income.” The policy aims to provide all citizens with a regular, unconditional payment. However, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has cautioned against implementing such a scheme, particularly in developing island nations like New Zealand. The IMF expresses concerns about potential economic repercussions and challenges associated with the policy. The warning comes as the proposal gains momentum and influences the political landscape. The debate highlights the growing consideration of alternative economic models globally, alongside risks for specific national contexts. It remains to be seen if the IMF’s concerns will impact the policy's viability in New Zealand.