The Government's being encouraged to take a tougher approach towards student debt

Recent student loan data reveals 54 per cent of overseas-based borrowers, aren't taking "positive actions" towards repaying their loan.

In fact, of the 1.5 billion dollars worth of debt that IRD considers overdue, more than 90 percent is owed by those living outside New Zealand.

Former Revenue Minister Peter Dunne says everyone has an obligation to pay the money back so it's only right they do.

He says stopping people at the border is an entirely appropriate step and should be encouraged .