The government deficit has edged up to $3.36 billion in the four months to October 31, the Crown accounts have revealed.
The operating balance before gains and losses came in $131 million over the forecast on the back of a reduced tax take.
While the tax revenue was slightly down at $503 million, more tax was taken from corporates - 8.6 percent above expectations.
The difference to the overall forecast widens out to $1.05 billion when a loss on the Government Superannuation Fund - based on more people living longer - is taken into account.
The amount of gross debt was $74.97 billion - 3.5 percent better than forecast.
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