Category: Asia Pacific

MIL-OSI Submissions: Universities – Little birds’ personalities shine through their song – and may help find a mate – Flinders

Source: Flinders University

In birds, singing behaviours play a critical role in mating and territory defence.

Although birdsong can signal individual quality and personality, very few studies have explored the relationship between individual personality and song complexity, and none has investigated this in females, say Flinders University animal behaviour experts.

They have examined the relationships between song complexity and two personality traits (exploration and aggressiveness) in wild superb fairy-wrens (Malurus cyaneus), a species in which both sexes learn to produce complex songs.

“Regardless of their sex or life stage, individuals that were more exploratory had more element types per song, which may be explained by the possibility that more exploratory birds approach and learn from a wider variety of tutors compared to less exploratory birds,” says senior lecturer Dr Diane Colombelli-Négrel, from the College of Science and Engineering BirdLab at Flinders University.

“Additionally, more aggressive individuals produced songs with fewer syllables, and more aggressive fledglings, but not adults, had more element types per song. In birds, singing behaviours play a critical role in mating and territory defence.”

The study illustrates that learned aspects of sexual signalling are personality dependent, and that this can have some potential fitness implications.

In a new study, published in Royal Society Open Science, the personality in males and females (including juveniles) was assessed by quantifying their exploration behaviour (novel environment test) and aggressiveness (mirror stimulation test) during short-term captivity.

First the birds were captured to measure their personality in short-term captivity. Researchers measured their exploration by placing them (in a novel environment test), and their aggressiveness (by using a mirror test).

After the birds were released, their songs were recorded over several months to assess individual variation in song complexity (i.e., element types per song, syllables per song) in relation to personality.

“Our study supports the idea that both male and female birds can advertise their personality when singing, which may be important for mate choice,” Dr Colombelli-Négrel says.

The research – Personality predicts song complexity in superb fairy-wrens (2025) by D Colombelli-Négrel, AC Katsis, LK Common and S Kleindorfer – will be published by the Royal Society Open Science (The Royal Society) DOI: 10.1098/rsos.241497.

https://doi.org/10.1098/rsos.241497

Acknowledgements: This work was funded by a Discovery Research Grant from the Australian Research Council (DP190102894) awarded to SK and DC-N and by a grant from the Australia & Pacific Science Foundation awarded to DC-N and SK.

This research was approved by the Flinders University Animal Welfare Committee (E480, AEC BIOL5563). Fieldwork was conducted under permit from the South Australian Department for Environment and Water (Z24699) and the Australian Bird and Bat Banding Scheme (banding authority numbers 2601, 2719).

Researchers also thank Cleland Wildlife Park for access to the field site and for accommodating this research.

MIL OSI – Submitted News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Australia: February Crime Statistics

Source: New South Wales – News

Serious criminal trespass and theft related offending in South Australia have again recorded significant declines, the latest crime statistics have revealed.

The February rolling year crime statistics reveal house break-ins have dropped for the eighth successive period, shop theft and car theft have also continued to decline at a steady rate and robbery and related offences have again dropped significantly.

The latest figures reveal the number of house break-ins declined by seven per cent from 5,899 to 5,465 reported offences. This followed a five per cent decline in the January period and a six per cent decline in the December period.

The number of non-residential break-ins declined by five per cent from 3,648 to 3,479 reported offences. This followed a two per cent decline in the January period.

Acting Assistant Commissioner (Metropolitan Operations Service) John de Candia said the continued reduction in both residential and non-residential serious criminal trespass offences was encouraging.

“The results reflect the proactive work being done by frontline officers across all of our policing districts,’’ he said.

“Identifying the recidivist offenders responsible for a significant number of these offences and then targeting them with specific operations to uncover the depth of their offending, gathering the necessary evidence and then charging them accordingly is paying dividends.

“In a number of these matters the courts have recognised their serious level of offending and they have been refused bail which contributes to a reduction in further offending.’’

One recent joint operation, dubbed Sentinel, involved detectives from the Northern, Eastern and Southern District Criminal Investigation Branches who probed the activities of a group of individuals responsible for committing multiple serious offences across several suburbs.

Operation Sentinel resulted in seven individuals – several of whom were significant recidivist offenders – being charged with 29 offences including aggravated serious criminal trespass, aggravated robbery, aggravated assault, firearms possession, illegal use and driving while disqualified. All have been refused bail.

Another protracted investigation into a recidivist offender committing offences across suburbs including North Adelaide, Kent Town, Marden and Evandale in February and March resulted in the arrest of a Queensland man, 41.

The man has been charged with 35 offences involving theft and non-residential serious criminal trespass. The man also had outstanding warrants for offences committed in Queensland, including multiple counts of rape and indecent assault.

A separate investigation into a string of thefts from hardware stores between September 2024 and March 2025 resulted in the arrest of a Henley Beach South man, 49, who is facing multiple counts of theft in connection with goods worth more than $10,000.

The latest figures reveal shop theft has continued to decline with a fourth successive decrease recorded. The number of offences dropped by eight per cent – from 18,743 to 17,268 offences – this period. This followed a five per cent decline in the January period, three per cent in December and two per cent in November.

Robbery and related offending have continued to decrease with a 15 per cent decline – from 887 to 742 offences recorded. This followed a 20 per cent decline in the January period, 22 per cent in December and a 26 per cent drop in the November period.

Within that category aggravated robbery declined by 19 per cent or 96 offences in the February period – from 512 offences to 416 offences – while non-aggravated robbery declined by five per cent – from 79 offences to 75 offences.

Car theft and theft from a vehicle have also continued to steadily decrease. Car theft dropped by 11 per cent or 408 offences – from 3,865 to 3,457 offences. This followed a 12 per cent decrease in the January period, an 11 per cent decrease in December and an eight per cent decline in the November period.

Theft from a vehicle decreased by 22 per cent – from 10,212 to 7,938 offences. This followed a 20 per cent drop in January and a 19 per cent decline in the December and November periods.

The homicide rate in South Australia has continued to decrease with a 64 per cent decrease reported in the period – from 25 to nine offences.

MIL OSI News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Aotearoa New Zealand’s population passes 5.3 million people – Stats NZ media and information release: Estimated resident population (2023-base): At 30 June 2023

Source: Statistics New Zealand

Aotearoa New Zealand’s population passes 5.3 million people – 16 April 2025 – Aotearoa New Zealand’s estimated resident population was 5,311,100 as at 31 December 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

These are the first population estimates to fully incorporate the 2023 Census and 2023 Post-Enumeration Survey (PES) results. Estimates back to 2018 have now been revised, and estimates after 30 June 2023 will now use the 2023-base estimated resident population as a starting point.

“Census data and the coverage results from the PES are used to recalibrate national and subnational population estimates,” population estimates, projections, and coverage spokesperson Victoria Treliving said.

“This recalibration ensures the population estimates are the best-possible measure of how many people live in communities across the country.”

For more:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: North Island population passes 4 million while South Island population grows faster – Stats NZ media and information release: Estimated resident population (2023-base): At 30 June 2023

Source: Statistics New Zealand

North Island population passes 4 million while South Island population grows faster – 16 April 2025

The population living in the North Island now exceeds 4 million, according to estimates released by Stats NZ today.

The North Island’s population has grown by an average of 1.3 percent a year since 2018, reaching 4.04 million at 30 June 2024. The South Island’s population has grown at a slightly faster rate of 1.4 percent a year, reaching 1.24 million at 30 June 2024.

“It took just over two decades for the North Island’s population to increase from 3 million in late 2002 to 4 million in late 2023,” population estimates and projections spokesperson Victoria Treliving said.

“Over the same time, the South Island population increased by almost 300,000 people.”

For More:

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Welcome insights to make hospitality thrive

Source: New Zealand Government

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has welcomed a report from the Restaurant Association and Hospitality New Zealand on steps to support the hospitality sector to thrive.

“It’s fantastic to see the insights and ideas discussed at last year’s Hospitality Summit now presented as actionable solutions in this report,” Louise Upston says.

“I’m pleased to see that the Government’s focus on tourism growth aligns with the hospitality sector’s priorities, particularly our vision to drive economic growth for hospitality businesses and jobs for Kiwis, by increasing international visitor numbers.

“The hospitality sector’s renowned hustle and hard work shines through in its response to this report, with industry leading the way on most recommendations.

“The Hospitality Summit has been a key initiative allowing greater alignment across the hospitality and tourism sectors. The input of hospitality leaders has been instrumental in delivering our Tourism Boost. The shared knowledge of leaders has been invaluable in helping chart future directions.

“Where recommendations call for government support or action, much is already being addressed through the work programmes of various government agencies.

“Work currently underway includes the additional $3 million to secure more business events as part of the Tourism Boost package, and $50,000 for the Restaurant Association of New Zealand, working in partnership with Hospitality NZ, to develop hospitality and restaurant spending insights.

“Changes to the Accredited Employer Work Visa address concerns raised about wage thresholds and job checks while a review of the vocational education and training system will consider the need for better support for skilled talent in the hospitality industry.

“The comprehensive recommendations in this report are exactly the type of feedback that I want to encourage from the sector, working in partnership with Government.

“I look forward to working together as we continue to prioritise growth for the tourism and hospitality sectors,” says Louise Upston.

Note to editors:

‘Serving Success – Opportunities for the New Zealand Hospitality Industry’ is available online: www.hospitality.org.nz/assets/Hospitality-Summit-2024-Report.pdf

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank funding reduction agreed

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government and the Reserve Bank board have agreed a funding agreement that will reduce budgeted operating expenses for the bank by about 25 per cent in the coming year.
“The new five-year agreement reflects the need for all government entities to identify cost savings and demonstrate value for money, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
“The bank initially sought funding of $1.03 billion for the coming five years, but the Treasury advised me that that amount did not represent good value for money.
“The new agreement allocates the bank operating expenses of $750 million and capital expenditure of $25.6 million for the period.
“That equates to average operating expenditure of $150 million a year, 25 per cent less than the bank’s $200 million operating expenses budget for the current financial year.
“The Reserve Bank has grown hugely in recent years. Fulltime equivalent staff numbers increased from 255 in the 2017/18 year to 660 in January this year.
“Benchmarking analysis performed by the Treasury shows that several of the Reserve Bank’s non-legislative functions, particularly in the People and Communications teams, appear overstaffed.
“The new agreement will ensure that the Reserve Bank has adequate resources to fulfil its legal responsibilities while promoting heightened cost efficiency.
“Both the board of the Reserve Bank and the Treasury are of the view the new expenditure limits are appropriate.”
Unlike most other agencies, which are funded annually through the Budget process, the Reserve Bank’s board negotiates five-year funding agreements with the Minister of Finance, who receives advice from the Treasury. The structure of these agreements is to support the Reserve Bank to maintain its independence from the government of the day.
The new agreement will apply from 1 July 2025.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand-Australia investigation into Latitude breach begins
Source: Privacy Commissioner

10 May 2023, 09:00

The New Zealand Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) and the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) have commenced a joint privacy investigation into the 12 March Latitude Financial data breach.

This decision follows preliminary inquiries into the matter by both offices.

This is the first joint privacy investigation by Australia and New Zealand and reflects the impact of the data breach on individuals in both nations.

The breach, New Zealand’s largest, has seen millions of New Zealanders’ and Australians’ records exposed, including drivers’ licenses, passports and sensitive financial data including personal income and expense information.

The joint investigation will allow the use of both agencies’ resources. The structure of the investigation does not preclude the OAIC and OPC reaching separate regulatory outcomes or decisions regarding the most appropriate regulatory response to a breach.

The OAIC and OPC’s investigation will focus on whether Latitude took reasonable steps to protect the personal information they held from misuse, interference, loss, unauthorised access, modification or disclosure.

The investigation will also consider whether Latitude took appropriate steps to destroy or de-identify personal information that was no longer required.

Deputy Privacy Commissioner Liz MacPherson says the investigation will focus on
- how the hackers gained entry to Latitude Financial’s systems
- how long they were inside before they were noticed
- what Latitude’s staff did when they discovered the attack
- the retention of information held by Latitude, and
- the security and storage of that information within its IT systems.
“This is a significant attack with an appalling result. I want to thank the affected customers who have been in contact with us so far. Thank you for your patience and for sharing your experiences with us, says Liz MacPherson.

“There is a human cost to a breach. We have former customers of Latitude who took a loan to buy a fridge about 15 years ago and now part of their identity is being held for ransom. We will be asking the same questions these customers are. Could Latitude have done anything to prevent the hackers getting in and stealing information? What reasons does Latitude have for holding onto the personal information of past customers for such long periods?”

“I also expect this breach has caused emotional stress for staff and the Board at Latitude Financial and I thank them for their constructive engagement with us to date,” says Liz.

A compliance investigation enables the Office of the Privacy Commissioner to use its full information gathering powers including obliging people to provide information and summoning witnesses.

“This information will help us to establish whether Latitude’s actions or inaction enabled the cyber-criminals and contributed to the scope and impact of the breach. Establishing these facts will be critical to our ability to make decisions about the individual complaints that are made to us by impacted Latitude customers,” says Liz.

“We are still encouraging affected customers to contact Latitude Financial and ID Care for support first. They have made commitments to assist impacted customers. If you complain to Latitude and you haven’t heard back from them within 30 working days, then we encourage affected customers to make a complaint to us.

Liz says, “we won’t start assessing individual complaints until we have completed our compliance investigation, but we want to get a sense of the number of people affected and the issues people are facing.

“We are expecting this investigation to be wide-ranging and we need to be able to assign investigators accordingly and plan how to meet the needs of affected customers. We also want to know the types of impact and harm people have suffered because of this breach (e.g. examples of harm like identity theft, credit difficulties, undue stress etc).

“We have set up an email for affected customers to contact our team easily. Can you please contact us at latitude.breach@privacy.org.nz ”

The Office of the Privacy Commissioner has been working with the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC) throughout the early stages and will continue to do so during the compliance investigation.

“As this investigation is now active no further comments will be made on it until it is concluded. When the OPC finishes its investigation, we will give an update, so please keep in contact with us.”

Anyone coming across the Latitude Financial data should take care.

“Do not access it. Do not spread it. Do not share it. Report it to the New Zealand Police. Report it to us or you can report it to CERT. No one should contribute to its dissemination and increase the anxiety and distress of the affected individuals.”

Individuals should be on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary.

“Be hyper vigilant. Watch out for suspicious texts, emails or unusual things happening with your accounts or records. Be particularly cautious of contact from an unknown source.”

If people would like to know more about some steps, they could take to protect themselves from privacy breaches they could follow this link: https://privacy.org.nz/resources-2/protecting-yourself-from-a-privacy-breach/

Timeline:
- Latitude Financial informs the OPC it was breached on March 16.
- The Office of the Privacy Commissioner starts its preliminary enquiries into the breach including working with the OAIC.
- The NZ Office of the Privacy Commissioner and the Australian Office of the Information Commissioner commence a joint compliance investigation into Latitude on 9 May.
Facts:
- Latitude Financial Services Limited NZ provides a wide range of financial and (limited) insurance services to customers across New Zealand via Gem Finance and Gem Visa and several subsidiary groups.
- Latitude Financial Services Limited NZ is a subsidiary of Latitude Holdings based in Australia. As such we will continue to work closely with the OAIC as our investigation progresses.
- Latitude Financial have estimated that 14 million NZ and Australian customer records have been exposed because of the 12 March attack of which around 1.08 million are NZ customer records.
- The 1.08 million NZ customer records includes around 1.037 million driver license records, around 40,000 passport records and sensitive income and expense information. The income and expenditure information was submitted as part of a personal loan application process.
- The Privacy Act 2020 places responsibility on Latitude for keeping personal information data secure.
- The OPC regulatory role is to understand whether reasonable steps to keep personal data secure have been followed, including appropriate data retention practices and to monitor the Latitude response to the cyber-attack breach.
The difference between preliminary inquiries, a compliance investigation and a complaint investigation
- Preliminary inquiries allow us to ask questions and assess the situation. Agencies provide information voluntarily.
- A compliance investigation is undertaken under Part 6 of the Privacy Act 2020. It is designed to allow the Privacy Commissioner to hear or obtain information from any person he considers may have relevant information to enable him to decide whether to issue a compliance notice to an agency for breaching the Privacy Act. A compliance notice requires an organisation to do something or to stop doing something, in order to comply with the Privacy Act. A compliance investigation can be used to inform the investigation of individual complaints where there are multiple complaints of the same nature.
- A complaint investigation is undertaken under Part 5 of the Privacy Act 2020. These investigations are focussed on the harm caused to the individual by a privacy breach and seek to resolve the complaint including through compensation or redress.
For media please call: 021 959 050

MIL OSI New Zealand News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace renews call on Ministry of Health to act on nitrate contamination in drinking water

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace Aotearoa has written to Manatū Hauora – Ministry of Health again following testing that revealed high levels of nitrate contamination in Ashburton District drinking water.

Greenpeace spokesperson Will Appelbe says, “Safe, healthy drinking water is a fundamental human right, but many people in Canterbury cannot drink the water coming out of their kitchen tap without risking getting sick. This is a public health crisis, and the Ministry of Health must take action.”

Greenpeace is calling on the Ministry of Health to step in and require Environment Canterbury to protect drinking water from nitrate contamination caused by the intensive dairy industry.

Greenpeace’s most recent round of water testing found that close to one in five private bores tested in the Ashburton District were above the Government’s maximum allowable value of nitrate in drinking water (11.3 mg/L NO3-N) – a level associated with potentially-fatal Blue Baby Syndrome. It also found that nearly half of the private bores tested were above 5 mg/L. This level of nitrate in drinking water has been linked to elevated risks of preterm birth if consumed by pregnant people.

One public supply – the Hinds town supply – tested at 6.55 mg/L for nitrate. Greenpeace says this is not the first town supply in Canterbury to reach potentially unsafe levels of nitrate contamination – last year, the organisation also found public water supplies in Darfield and Oxford were testing at levels above 5 mg/L of nitrate.

“It is unacceptable that no action has been taken yet to stop contamination of drinking water at the source,” says Appelbe.

“The source of nitrate pollution is clear: it is the intensive dairy industry. Too many cows, and too much synthetic nitrogen fertiliser, lead to nitrate leaching into groundwater, which is where most communities in Canterbury draw their water from. And so the solution is also clear. We need to reduce the dairy herd size, and phase out the use of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser in Aotearoa.

“Ultimately, we need to transition towards more plant-based, ecological farming practices that work with, instead of against, nature.

“It’s time for our Government to take accountability for the public health crisis that is looming as a result of unchecked dairying and water pollution. We’re calling on the Ministry of Health to ensure that drinking water in Canterbury is protected at the source – so that everyone, no matter where they live, can safely drink the water coming out of their kitchen tap.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: EPA calls for information on tattoo inks
Source: Environmental Protection Authority
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is seeking information about how tattoo inks are supplied, made and used in New Zealand to help assess whether the current rules are fit for purpose.

“Tattoos have been increasing in popularity and with about one quarter of New Zealand’s adult population estimated to have a tattoo, it’s important to make sure the current rules are appropriate,” says EPA Hazardous Substances Reassessments Manager Dr Shaun Presow.

“Recent research has shown that some of the ingredients in some tattoo inks, including certain types of pigments and chemicals, could cause adverse effects, such as allergic reactions or infections.

“Researchers overseas have found some inks can contain potentially harmful ingredients including carcinogens and high levels of impurities like heavy metals, and we want to make sure Kiwis aren’t facing these risks.”

In 2020, the European Union restricted and banned several substances found in tattoo inks because of the risk of adverse effects.

“While these effects are extremely rare, we want to look at whether our rules should be more aligned with international practice.

“As one of New Zealand’s regulators of hazardous substances, it’s important we regularly review the rules that protect people’s health.”

“This is an important part of our ongoing work to keep New Zealanders safe,” says Dr Presow.

We’d like information on all ink that is permanently applied to the body, including commercial inks, homemade inks, as well as ink used in permanent makeup (tattoos that look like make-up such as eye liner).

We want to learn more about:
the types, brands, and colours of tattoo ink being used

where tattoo ink is being purchased

if and how tattoo ink is manufactured in New Zealand

what measures are being used to manage any risks from tattoo inks.
“We’ll use the information we gather to decide if we should amend the existing rules, and to guide any possible changes if we do,” says Dr Presow.

“If any changes are proposed, there will be public consultation and industry input will be vital.”

Submissions close on Wednesday, 11 June 2025.

Background
Tattoo inks are currently regulated by a group standard (a set of rules that applies to a group of similar products). These rules cover the import, manufacture, supply and use of tattoo inks in New Zealand: Tattoo and permanent makeup substances guidance for business | EPA

Before we can amend rules like these, we are required to go through an information gathering and consultation process.

Tattoo safety

Before getting a tattoo, you can check if the tattoo artist is aware of the current guidance on our website.

While adverse effects from tattoo inks are extremely rare, there are other risks from tattoos. The main risk is from unclean equipment and infections spread by needles. WorkSafe New Zealand and the Ministry of Health have guidance on managing risks from tattooing. Some councils also have by-laws that apply to tattoo parlours.

If you have noticed any symptoms you believe may be related to a tattoo, you should seek advice from a medical professional in the first instance. You should also contact your tattoo artist to inform them of the issue.

If you purchase or import tattoo ink, ask your supplier to provide you with the information outlined in the “your responsibilities as a tattooist” advice on our website: Tattoo and permanent makeup substances guidance for business
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: OUT NOW ON MĀORI+: Āku Hapa! for reo Māori learners needing a giggle

Source: Eda Tang

He reo hapa e taea te whakatika, he reo ngū e kore e taea.
You can correct broken language, but you can’t correct language that is not spoken.
– Te Korou Whangataua

Brand new to Māori+, Āku Hapa! is unlike any cooking show you’ll ever watch. Hosts James Dansey(Ngāruahine, Te Arawa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa) and Eda Tang (Ngāi Haina) chop, squeeze and stumble their way through a recipe, speaking only te reo Māori. The catch? Their vocabulary is limited, much like the many learners of te reo Māori across the motu.

It’s not a coincidence that the name means both ‘my dinner’ and ‘my mistakes’. Although the spoken reo won’t always be perfect, the English subtitles, which are direct translations, will show when mistakes are made. The cheeky duo who met in their reo Māori class at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa lighten the overwhelming emotions that can come with language revitalisation and acquisition.

Dansey began his reo Māori haerenga in 2017, after his daughter was born. Learning te reo Māori had been a lifelong desire but one riddled with whakamā (shame) and confusion. “We’re asked in reo classes to ‘tohaina atu rā tēnei reo ki ngā whaitua’, to ‘tūwhitia te hopo’ and to ‘nau mai ngā hapa’,” says Dansey. “Āku Hapa is our attempt to use our fledging reo to embody these with kindness and humour!”

This pilot episode featuring award-winning investigative journalist Paula Penfold (Ngāi Pākehā) as the manuhiri is just a taste of what’s to come. The guests invited to eat the kai are all learners of te reo Māori and share their experiences with whatever level of reo is within them. It’s unpredictable, delirious, and a little bit naughty, but it ultimately models the non-linear nature of learning, offering a comforting watch in a bitesized format.

“I began my haerenga reo Māori as a kind of apology to my children, Ben and Māia (Ngāti Kahungunu),” says Penfold. “We didn’t put them through kōhanga reo or kura kaupapa, and I regret that. I regret not helping them reclaim their language. So this, for me, is a way of trying to atone for that, and hoping that maybe, one day, I can kōrero Māori with my future mokopuna.”

“But it is not a linear journey: there can be times when your confidence propels you forward to speak up loudly, and other times when you feel a complete numpty failure. It was a relief to hear kaiako say all the time, ‘nau mai ngā hapa’, that the classroom is a wāhi haumaru and in order to get better at the reo you have to keep on speaking the reo, which will inevitably mean mistakes, and that is ok.”

Tang grew up speaking Cantonese at home and learning Mandarin after school. “Because I don’t have a whakapapa relationship with te reo Māori, I won’t ever know the feeling of carrying the trauma of having your language, your whakaaro, intentionally and systemically alienated from you. What I do know with my ancestral tongue, is that the fear of failure can stop me from speaking my ancestral tongue completely.”

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash closes State Highway 2, Tangoio

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

State Highway 2, Tangoio is closed following a crash.

The two-vehicle crash near Tangoio Settlement Road happened just before 9am.

Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

The road is expected to be closed for a significant period of time. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 5 near Mohaka Bridge blocked by landslide

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

A landslide has blocked State Highway 5, near the Mohaka Bridge.

The landslide was reported to Police at 9.35am.

This road was being used as a diversion following a serious crash on State Highway 2.

Motorists heading north from Hawke’s Bay are advised to delay travel wherever possible.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 5 blockage

Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police have visited the site of a slip of State Highway 5 near the Mohaka Bridge.

Officers have confirmed the northbound lane is partially blocked and is being cleared.

Traffic is able to get through but we ask motorists to drive with caution in the area.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Request for New Zealand to Suspend Entry of Israeli Passport Holders in Solidarity with Palestine

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

Open Letter from Palestine Forum of New Zealand to Prime Minister of New Zealand, and, Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Dear Prime Minister Luxon and Minister Peters,

I am writing to express deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and to urge the New Zealand government to take a firm stand in support of international law and human rights.

The Maldives has recently announced a ban on Israeli passport holders entering their country, citing solidarity with the Palestinian people and condemnation of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This decisive action reflects a growing international demand for accountability and justice. New York Post (ref. https://nypost.com/2025/04/15/world-news/maldives-bans-israeli-passport-holders-amid-gaza-conflict/?utm_source=chatgpt.com )

New Zealand has a proud history of advocating for human rights and upholding international law. In line with this tradition, I respectfully request that the New Zealand government consider implementing a temporary suspension on the entry of Israeli passport holders. Such a measure would serve as a peaceful protest against the ongoing violence and a call for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of civilian lives.

I understand the complexities involved in international relations and the importance of maintaining diplomatic channels. However, taking a stand against actions that result in significant civilian casualties and potential violations of international law is imperative.

I appreciate your attention to this matter and urge you to consider this request seriously. New Zealand’s voice can contribute meaningfully to the global call for peace and justice.

Sincerely,

Maher Nazzal
Palestine Forum of New Zealand

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Sector – Buyer power dynamics are changing – CoreLogic

In this week’s Pulse, Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson looks at CoreLogic’s Buyer Classification data over the quarter, which showed a slight pullback by first home buyers (FHBs) while mortgaged investors gain ground.

You can read the full analysis attached and below.
For interviews, please contact nzmedia@corelogic.com

Thanks,
Santi

Embargoed until 00:01 AM, Wednesday 16 April 2025

Source: CoreLogic – Commentary from Kelvin Davidson, CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist.

In today’s Pulse, CoreLogic NZ’s Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson looks at the Buyer Classification data from the first three months of the year, revealing a slight pullback by first home buyers (FHBs) as mortgaged investor activity rises.

The comeback for investors is being driven by the smaller, ‘Mum and Dad’ buyers, who are increasingly looking at existing properties rather than new-builds.

FHBs still have a place in the market. With overall activity expected to pick up in 2025, they’re likely to buy more properties than in 2024, even if their share of activity drops.

First home buyers dip while investors rise

March’s CoreLogic Buyer Classification data shows that first home buyers accounted for 25% of all property purchases in the first quarter of the year. That was down from 26% in Q4 2024, and in fact the lowest figure for FHBs since the first quarter of 2023.

Meanwhile, movers (or relocating owner-occupiers) had a 26% share of activity in Q1, while cash multiple property owners (MPOs, including investors) and their mortgaged cousins both saw a higher market share, at 14% and 23% respectively.

These broad patterns have shown up across most of the main centres, although the wider Wellington area – City, Lower & Upper Hutt, Porirua – remains a ‘hotspot’ for FHBs, with their market share holding up at 35% in Q1.

An obvious factor here will be the relative weakness of Wellington property values (and improved affordability), which is likely playing into the hands of FHBs; provided they feel confident about their job security.

Investors are benefiting from lower mortgage rates

Clearly, the falls in mortgages rates over the past 6-9 months from more than 7% to less than 5% have benefitted anybody looking to borrow to purchase a property, however debt-backed investors might be gaining the most from these lower rates.

The reduced deposit requirements last year (from 35% to 30%) would have helped, alongside the shorter Brightline Test, and mortgage interest deductibility now back at 100%.

But it seems likely that the biggest shift in favour of mortgaged investors has simply been the reduction in the size of the top-ups that are generally required out of other income for a rental property purchase. When mortgage rates were above 7%, those top-ups could easily have been pushing $400 per week; but now they might typically be closer to $200. That’s still significant for a new investor, but much less of a hurdle than before.

The Buyer Classification data also shows us investor activity by size and it’s intriguing to see that the comeback has been powered by ‘Mums and Dads’. In particular, mortgaged MPO-2’s – those who own two properties in total after their latest purchase (i.e. effectively a new investor) – have risen from 6% of activity in mid-2023 to 8% now, with MPO 3-4’s rising from a trough of 4% towards 6% now.

New-builds are slightly less popular with investors

It’s also worth noting that mortgaged investors’ focus on new-build properties has lessened lately – they accounted for 30% of activity in this segment in 2023 and 29% in 2024 but have dipped to 27% so far in 2025. To be fair, it’s early days and that figure might rise back again. But a relative reduction in demand from mortgaged investors for new properties would certainly be consistent with the changes in interest deductibility, meaning that older properties no longer carry higher tax bills than new-builds.

At the same time, there’s an abundance of listings on the market at present, allowing investors to potentially snap up existing properties at a favourable price too.

What might lie ahead?

Part of our ‘housing market story’ for a while now has been that FHBs might see their market share drop in 2025 (from record highs in recent years) while mortgaged investors rise back up from historical lows. That now seems to be playing out.

But before anyone panics about the demise of FHBs, it’s important to point out that we expect the overall number of property transactions in 2025 to be about 10,000 higher than in 2024 – meaning FHBs can (and probably will) purchase more properties this year than last, even if their market share drops slightly.

Some of the supports that FHBs have had in recent years will certainly remain in place, such as access to KiwiSaver for at least part of the deposit, and a ‘monopoly’ on the low deposit lending allowances at the banks.

For investors, reduced mortgage rates have made property purchases more attractive from a cashflow perspective. In addition, any tariff-related uncertainty that hangs around for the medium-term may push some investors towards property where they might otherwise have considered shares or bonds.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Finance and Security – Bank accounts a key tool for reducing ex-prisoner reoffending – FinCap
Source: FinCap

New research conducted by Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington finds that taking simple steps to enable ex-prisoners to open bank accounts would assist them in accessing housing, employment, and benefits, which would reduce the risk of re-offending.

The research, led by Senior Lecturer Victoria Stace, was commissioned by FinCap, a charitable trust which supports more than 700 financial mentors in their work helping people who are in financial hardship. The findings of Stage 2 of this work, being released today, are based on interviews with a broad group of stakeholders, including representatives from the banking sector, financial mentoring organisations, community groups, and the Department of Corrections.

“Enabling ex-prisoners to access banking services is a simple measure. It carries negligible cost to the government or banks, could help reduce crime, and save on the costs of imprisoning reoffenders,” says FinCap Senior Policy Advisor Jake Lilley.

“Without a bank account, ex-prisoners struggle to be paid for work, receive benefits, pay bills, or find housing-making it hard to live legally and independently.

“Ex-prisoners who find themselves unable to do these things are more likely to return to crime. This carries an enormous social cost to the victims and a massive fiscal cost to the government. Access to banking is a simple, effective anti-crime measure,” says Jake Lilley.

“Many prisoners either lose access to their bank accounts upon entering prison or do not have any bank account, and those attempting to open new accounts face obstacles, particularly in meeting identification and proof of address requirements. We need uniform procedures across the banking sector to improve access to banking for prisoners,” says Victoria Stace.

“We have developed a set of practical recommendations to make this happen, including:

Corrections should ensure that prisoners have ID documents prior to release (birth certificate and a form of photo ID), and given the opportunity to apply for a bank account prior to release

Major banks should participate in a programme that offers bank accounts to people in prison who are due for release

Every prison should have access to at least one financial mentoring service, with regular financial capability workshops for inmates. “Collaboration between Corrections, banks, financial mentoring organisations, and community groups is essential to overcoming these challenges. Ensuring nationwide consistency, addressing systemic barriers, and securing resources are critical for the successful implementation of the proposed recommendations,” says Victoria Stace.

Read the report here: https://www.fincap.org.nz/images/files/Steps-to-Freedom-Full-Report-on-Stage-2.pdf
MIL OSI New Zealand News –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport Sector – NZTA heeds trucking industry advice on Dunedin SH1 improvements

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Transporting New Zealand is commending NZTA on heeding industry feedback with its latest proposal to not have traffic lights installed at a key intersection on Dunedin’s SH1 one-way system.

Chief executive Dom Kalasih says Transporting New Zealand is generally supportive of NZTA’s latest plans for improvements to Dunedin’s SH1 one-way system.

“We were opposed to a new set of traffic lights being installed on SH1 between Great King Street and Pine Hill Road because that would unnecessarily slow and stop some traffic.

“Typically about 10,000 vehicles use the southbound section of the one-way system and a similar amount use the northbound section every day, with trucks making up about 5 percent of that traffic. Unnecessarily slowing or stopping all those people and freight is not helpful, particularly when we are trying to improve the productivity of the nation.

“What is most pleasing is it appears NZTA is taking a more balanced approach and beginning to propose solutions that improve both safety and productivity. This is something we’ve been advocating for some time now and it’s great to see what appears to be some change in the agency’s fundamental thinking.”

Transporting New Zealand will be providing a formal submission on the changes.

About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.

Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Easter – Watch out for public holiday surcharges on Easter Sunday – Consumer NZ

Source: Consumer NZ

Before you head out to celebrate this Easter, Consumer NZ wants to make sure you aren’t stung with Easter Sunday surcharges.

Consumer NZ is sharing a timely refresher on the rules about public holiday surcharges as we head towards Easter and Anzac Day.

Jessica Walker, acting head of research and advocacy at Consumer, says the cost-of-living pinch isn’t going to stop people from heading out for an Easter treat over the break, and she wants consumers to know when they can reasonably expect to pay surcharges.

“We want to arm consumers with the information they need over the upcoming holidays to ensure they aren’t misled.”

There should be no public holiday surcharges on Easter Sunday

On a public holiday, businesses can add surcharges to cover the extra costs they face, such as paying employees extra for working on that public holiday in accordance with the Holidays Act 2003.

If a business does add a public holiday surcharge, they must be upfront about the fact they’ve done so and the reason for charging it. Public holiday surcharges are very different from credit card surcharges. Credit card surcharges can apply any time of the year. But you should only encounter a public holiday surcharge on a public holiday.

And, under the act, Easter Sunday isn’t a public holiday.

“In the past, we’ve seen eateries claim they’re applying a surcharge because it’s a public holiday when it’s not actually a public holiday,” Walker warns.

Any business that imposes a public holiday surcharge on a day that isn’t a public holiday risks breaching the Fair Trading Act 1986.

“Good Friday, Easter Monday and Anzac Day are the only days businesses can add genuine public holiday surcharges this month. If a business is claiming a public holiday surcharge on Easter Sunday, let them know they shouldn’t be and take your business elsewhere.

“You can also lodge a complaint with the Commerce Commission.”

About Consumer

Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport and Legislation – Ending ACC discount for safe truck drivers is a backwards move

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

Road freight industry group Transporting New Zealand is calling on the Government to reverse its decision to end an ACC levy discount for truck drivers, saying the move will jeopardise road safety.

The ACC Fleet Saver package closes to new entrants from 1 July this year and will end on 20 June 2029.

Fleet Saver can save accredited businesses that demonstrate their commitment to road and workplace safety up to 40 per cent on the ACC portion of their annual motor vehicle license fees.

Chief executive Dom Kalasih says the savings from the programme helps businesses to deliver better safety outcomes for staff and customers.

“The proposed closure would jeopardise this progress. The Government needs to make it easier for businesses to sign up by reducing barriers.”

He says currently the programme is only open to businesses that own five or more heavy goods vehicles. However, data from the Ministry of Transport shows 55 per cent of heavy vehicles in the road freight industry operate in fleets of five vehicles or less.

“We want to work with ACC to reform and improve the scheme,” Kalasih says.

“ACC’s claim that the programme is not delivering is based on an assessment they made in 2018, and there have been no improvements or substantial promotion of the programme since that date.

“The closure of the programme will not support improved safety and recovery outcomes, nor will it produce any material financial savings for ACC.”

Kalasih says even more puzzling is that while ACC is shutting its Fleet Saver system down, NZTA is signaling its intent to reward transport operators with a variety of accredited management systems.

“How one part of government can be closing down this approach just as another one starts off on that path is baffling.”

“The industry deserves some joined up government thinking on this otherwise it appears inevitable there will be an increased compliance cost to industry and ultimately that will show up as an increased cost of living.”

Kalasih says he welcomes the opportunity to meet with the ACC Minister Scott Simpson to discuss how ACC and the road freight industry can work to protect and improve the safety benefits offered by Fleet Saver,

Transporting New Zealand encourages any eligible road freight companies to apply to join ACC Fleet Saver by June 30 and will help members with the application process.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Aotearoa New Zealand’s population passes 5.3 million people – Stats NZ media and information release: Estimated resident population (2023-base): At 30 June 2023
Source: Statistics New Zealand

Aotearoa New Zealand’s population passes 5.3 million people – 16 April 2025 – Aotearoa New Zealand’s estimated resident population was 5,311,100 as at 31 December 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

These are the first population estimates to fully incorporate the 2023 Census and 2023 Post-Enumeration Survey (PES) results. Estimates back to 2018 have now been revised, and estimates after 30 June 2023 will now use the 2023-base estimated resident population as a starting point.

“Census data and the coverage results from the PES are used to recalibrate national and subnational population estimates,” population estimates, projections, and coverage spokesperson Victoria Treliving said.

“This recalibration ensures the population estimates are the best-possible measure of how many people live in communities across the country.”

For more:

Aotearoa New Zealand’s population passes 5.3 million people

Estimated resident population (2023-base): At 30 June 2023
MIL OSI –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: North Island population passes 4 million while South Island population grows faster – Stats NZ media and information release: Estimated resident population (2023-base): At 30 June 2023
Source: Statistics New Zealand

North Island population passes 4 million while South Island population grows faster – 16 April 2025

The population living in the North Island now exceeds 4 million, according to estimates released by Stats NZ today.

The North Island’s population has grown by an average of 1.3 percent a year since 2018, reaching 4.04 million at 30 June 2024. The South Island’s population has grown at a slightly faster rate of 1.4 percent a year, reaching 1.24 million at 30 June 2024.

“It took just over two decades for the North Island’s population to increase from 3 million in late 2002 to 4 million in late 2023,” population estimates and projections spokesperson Victoria Treliving said.

“Over the same time, the South Island population increased by almost 300,000 people.”

For More:

North Island population passes 4 million while South Island population grows faster

Estimated resident population (2023-base): At 30 June 2023
MIL OSI –
April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Youths arrested following recent Gore burglaries

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Seven youth have been arrested following a number of recent burglaries in the Gore area.

Between 5pm Monday 7 April and 8am Tuesday 8 April, Gore Police received reports of multiple reports of burglaries in the Main Street area.

After making a number of enquiries into the incidents, Police identified and located seven young people who are believed to be involved.

Some of the young people were located in the Dunedin area.

The seven youth have been spoken to by Police and have been referred to Youth Services.

We understand this activity is incredibly frustrating to members of the public, and we will continue to work to hold offenders to account.

However we cannot do this alone, if you witness any suspicious or unlawful activity, please contact Police with as much information you can safely gather.

You can contact us on 111, or for non-emergencies through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Make a Report” or call 105.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fiji and New Zealand: an indispensable partnership

Source: New Zealand Government

Fiji and New Zealand will work together ever more closely to navigate the challenging strategic environment, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Peters says.
“New Zealand and Fiji share an indispensable partnership in the Pacific,” Mr Peters says, following his meeting in Nadi last night with Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. “In these uncertain times, the Fiji-New Zealand relationship must deliver for our peoples and the region.”
“As small, export-dependent countries facing economic headwinds, we focused on our regional and international connections and delivering the best possible outcomes for the Fijian and New Zealand people,” Mr Peters says. “We also discussed our ambition to grow two-way trade to $2 billion by 2030, and New Zealand’s recent decision to make it easier and cheaper for Fijians to visit our country.”
Minister Peters, who arrived in Fiji from Hawaii yesterday, says last night’s discussion also focused on the role of the United States in the Pacific.
“During our visit to Honolulu, we were reminded of the United States’ significant investment in regional and global security. We continued this focus with Prime Minister Rabuka and we welcome our close cooperation with Fiji on a myriad of security issues, including defence cooperation, drug trafficking and people smuggling.
“We also exchanged ideas for how to cooperate to tackle shared challenges, how New Zealand can best support Fiji and the region’s economic development, and the importance we both attach to support for the Pacific from partners with similar values. We looked forward to the Pacific Islands Forum in Solomon Islands in September, which will provide regional leadership on priority Pacific issues.”
Mr Peters is leading a cross-party delegation around the Pacific. The short visit to Fiji followed programmes in Tonga and Hawaii. The cross-party delegation arrives in Vanuatu later today, before returning to New Zealand tomorrow.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government launches regulatory review into telecommunications

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Regulation David Seymour and Media and Communications Minister Paul Goldsmith have today announced that the Ministry for Regulation’s fourth sector review will be into the telecommunications sector.
“Telecommunications touch almost every part of modern life. With 7.22 million active connections—around 1.4 per New Zealander—this sector is as essential as electricity and water,” Says Mr Seymour.
“From education and healthcare to e-commerce and entertainment, reliable digital infrastructure powers economic growth and daily life. But when regulation falls behind, innovation slows and costs rise.
“In a high-cost economy like ours, regulation isn’t neutral—it’s a tax on growth. That’s why it’s time to take a fresh look.
“The Ministry for Regulation and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment will work closely with industry leaders, consumer groups, and regulators to develop terms of reference for Cabinet consideration. Hearing from everyday New Zealanders will be a cornerstone of the review process.”
The Ministers have decided to implement the review on the back of concerns raised with them by the sector.
“Telecommunications are used by almost every New Zealander every day. It’s a multibillion-dollar industry contributing to around 2.5 per cent of New Zealand’s GDP,” Mr Goldsmith says.
“We want to ensure we have the right regulatory settings in place for this important market, to support competition, foster innovation and help stimulate economic growth.
“Better connectivity means improved reliability for businesses, people accessing digital healthcare, and remote learning for kids. Reliable and high-quality digital connectivity networks improve productivity and are essential to growing our economy and easing the cost of living.”
Note to editors: the review scope will not include:

the Telecommunications Development Levy (TDL)
the Radiocommunications Act 1989 (radio spectrum)
the Telecommunications (Interception Capability and Security) Act 2013
the vertical separation of wholesale and retail fibre services that applies to Chorus and the other local fibre companies.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Respect king shags this breeding season

Source: Department of Conservation

Date: 16 April 2025 Source: Department of Conservation and Marlborough District Council

“Boaties are not allowed to go within 100 m of king shag colonies under the district’s environment plan rules, to protect this endangered species which only breeds in the Marlborough Sounds,” DOC Ranger Dan Palmer says.

“King shags are famously skittish and tend to fly the nest when disturbed by a noisy boat, leaving their eggs and chicks vulnerable to predation by gulls.”

There are colonies on Sentinel Rock – a popular fishing spot – and at Trio Islands, Duffers Reef and White Rocks.

They’re often mistaken for common shags, but Dan says there are a few important differences.

“Unlike common shags, king shags won’t go near anyone with a fishing line and aren’t interested in scavenging, so they don’t tend to trouble boaties. King shags are also larger than their common shag cousins.”

Marlborough District Council Principal Coastal Scientist Oliver Wade says the taonga bird species was identified as needing specific protection through the development of the new Marlborough Environment Plan.

“The rules in the new environment plan identify the limited number of important breeding and roosting sites for the King Shag and put in place a 100 m exclusion zone that applies to any boating activity.

“Marlborough District Council and the Department of Conservation are committed to working together to care for this incredible species, which can dive up to 60m and is the deepest diving bird species in our region.”

Dan Palmer says king shags are under considerable pressure following challenging La Nina conditions in 2022-23.

“At last count, the overall number of birds was 614, having dropped by 25 per cent since 2021, although last year’s successful breeding season was a bright spot. Still, we’re going to continue to see La Nina knock-on effects in the breeding population over the coming years.

“The good news is we can help king shags by simply respectfully sharing space. They’re unique and special – and if they go from here, they’re gone from everywhere.

“Giving king shags the space they need creates a much safer environment for adults to protect their eggs and chicks, and gives king shags a fighting chance to grow a healthy, resilient population.”

Background information

The king shag is only found in the outer Marlborough Sounds. Because they have a small range and there are not many of them, even a single adverse event could impact most of the population.

A deep diving bird, they feed on bottom-dwelling fish species including lemon sole, opalfish and witch. Given their preferred prey, king shags depend on a healthy seafloor ecosystem.

Other threats include disturbance from human activity and bad weather events.

King shags breed in winter, making nests of sticks and seaweed cemented with guano on low rock platforms, steep rock faces, or rock ridges. Typically, they lay one to three pale blue eggs per nest.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: BNZ cuts home loan rates, offers market-leading 18-month fixed rate

Source: BNZ statements

BNZ today cut interest rates across a number of home loan terms, with a market-leading 18-month fixed rate of 4.95% p.a.*

BNZ’s rates include 5.49% p.a. for 6 months, 4.99% p.a. for 1 year, and 4.99% p.a. for 2 years. The new rates are available from today for both new customers and existing customers who are eligible to refix.

BNZ General Manager Home Lending James Leydon says these competitive rates respond to customers’ diverse home loan needs, giving customers more options as they navigate the current interest rate environment.

“We know many of our customers are looking beyond the very short-term fixed rates as the interest rate environment evolves. By offering a market-leading 18-month option, we’re giving customers more choice and the ability to lock in a competitive rate for a longer period,” he says.

“At the same time, we continue to compete hard for those New Zealanders who prefer the flexibility of our 6-month and 1-year fixed rate options. With fixed rates reduced across multiple terms, we’re providing solutions that work for a wide range of borrowers.

“It’s also a timely Easter bonus for homeowners, when household budgets can face a bit of extra pressure from those extra school holiday costs.”

The changes follow BNZ’s announcement last week that it will cut its floating home loan rates by 25 basis points, following the Reserve Bank’s OCR reduction.

BNZ lending criteria (including minimum equity requirements), and terms apply. Rates subject to change. Up to $150 establishment fee and early repayment charges may apply.

*As at 6.30am, 16 April 2025, BNZ has the market leading 18-month fixed rate of the five main banks.

The post BNZ cuts home loan rates, offers market-leading 18-month fixed rate appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rare Raukawa gecko rediscovered in Auckland remains elusive

Source: Auckland Council

The discovery of a rare mainland population of the Raukawa gecko (Woodworthia maculata) in the southern part of the Auckland region has sent ripples of excitement through the conservation community.

These omnivores play a vital role in pollination and seed dispersal as they consume nectar and fruit, and a significant find of the gecko could suggest a potentially thriving population in an area where they were thought to be extinct.

Chair of the Planning and Policy Committee Councillor Richard Hills says ecological work is invaluable.

“The data gained in these surveys helps us keep track of our reptile populations and allows us to work to manage threats and restore environments so they can survive. The report of a Raukawa gecko is an exciting development.

“Knowing which species are living in our neighbourhoods supports local conservation efforts through native plantings and predator control.

“Finding a New Zealand forest gecko in my own backyard on the North Shore this year highlights the amazing work done by volunteers and council in our communities, and is a reminder that we need to do more to protect all our native species”

The project, a collaboration between Auckland Council’s Regional Parks and Environmental Services teams, aims to determine the gecko’s population size, distribution, and overall status in the area. This will start with an ecological survey to confirm the finding.

Auckland Council’s Senior Ecologist Melinda Rixon says it is an incredible discovery.

“While Raukawa geckos are widespread on pest-free islands, mainland populations are exceedingly rare due to predation and habitat destruction.

“Finding them here gives us a rare opportunity to learn more about their resilience and consider what conservation efforts might be necessary to protect them.”

The recent survey carried out follows an initial sighting in 2023 by ecologist Miranda Bennett, who first spotted the gecko while undertaking weed control work in the area. This prompted further investigation into whether this was a lone survivor or part of a larger, hidden population.

“This is why we do what we do,” says Miranda Bennett, who is now Programme Manager for work funded by the Natural Environment Targeted Rate.

“The chance to rediscover a species in a place where we didn’t think it existed anymore is exciting. It also highlights the value of protecting and restoring these unique ecosystems,” adds Miranda.

The site being surveyed is also home to several other threatened reptile species, including the at-risk shore skink (Oligosoma smithi), as well as ornate skinks and copper skinks. The survey is equally focused on gathering information on these species to inform future conservation and management strategies.

As the survey draws to a close, just two geckos have been sighted and tagged.

“It’s a little disappointing; we were hoping to find more. A couple of lonely geckos doesn’t bode well for a mainland population,” says Miranda.

Conservation challenges and survey methods

While the Raukawa gecko has a national status of ‘Not Threatened,’ it is classified as ‘At Risk – Regionally Recovering’ within Auckland due to its absence from most mainland sites.

If there is a population in the area, its existence will challenge our understanding of the species’ mainland distribution and raises questions about its long-term survival prospects; the main threats to geckos include predation from invasive mammals and habitat degradation.

To investigate the population, the research team set up multiple survey divides using Artificial Cover Objects (ACOs) to attract and monitor geckos.

Additionally, tracking tunnels, typically used for pest monitoring, were employed to detect gecko footprints, which are easily distinguished from skink footprints.

The team conducted five separate checks over the two-week period of the survey to collect data on the population.

The unique world of the Raukawa gecko

Raukawa geckos are nocturnal but sometimes cryptically bask in sunlight during the day in plain sight, near their retreats.

Unlike their tropical counterparts, which may only live a couple of years, geckos in New Zealand can survive for up to 60 years.

This long lifespan, however, comes with slow reproduction rates – geckos take years to mature and give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. In colder conditions, they can even delay giving birth until temperatures are more favourable.

Another fascinating adaptation of these geckos is their remarkable sticky feet, which allow them to scale vertical surfaces and even walk upside down.

Their ability to drop their tails, known as caudal autonomy, is another survival tactic. If a predator attacks, the gecko can detach its tail, which wriggles distractingly while the gecko makes a swift escape. Although the tail regrows, it never quite matches the original—it is shorter, often differently coloured, and structurally distinct.

Protecting a precious population

The presence of the Raukawa gecko and the shore skink highlights the biodiversity value of this undisclosed southern Auckland Council regional park, which is already recognised as a Biodiversity Focus Area (BFA) due to its rare coastal ecosystem.

The park provides critical habitat for at-risk species, including the shore skink and the threatened plant Senecio scaberulus (fireweed). Conservation efforts at the site focus on habitat restoration and predator management to ensure these species thrive in the coming decades.

“Finding a mainland population of Raukawa geckos would be a game-changer for our conservation efforts,” says Melinda.

“The discovery would underscore the importance of continued monitoring and protection of our natural spaces. Who knows what else we might find?”

For now, the survey team is keeping the exact location under wraps to protect the geckos from poaching or disturbance.

The public is encouraged to support conservation efforts by respecting protected areas and reporting any native lizard sightings to local conservation groups.

Native Raukawa gecko

The unique world of the Raukawa gecko

Raukawa geckos are nocturnal but sometimes cryptically bask in sunlight during the day in plain sight, near their retreats.

Unlike their tropical counterparts, which may only live a couple of years, geckos in New Zealand can survive for up to 60 years.

This long lifespan, however, comes with slow reproduction rates – geckos take years to mature and give birth to live young rather than laying eggs. In colder conditions, they can even delay giving birth until temperatures are more favourable.

Another fascinating adaptation of these geckos is their remarkable sticky feet, which allow them to scale vertical surfaces and even walk upside down.

Their ability to drop their tails, known as caudal autonomy, is another survival tactic. If a predator attacks, the gecko can detach its tail, which wriggles distractingly while the gecko makes a swift escape. Although the tail regrows, it never quite matches the original—it is shorter, often differently coloured, and structurally distinct.

Protecting a precious population

The presence of the Raukawa gecko and the shore skink highlights the biodiversity value of this undisclosed southern Auckland Council regional park, which is already recognised as a Biodiversity Focus Area (BFA) due to its rare coastal ecosystem.

The park provides critical habitat for at-risk species, including the shore skink and the threatened plant Senecio scaberulus (fireweed). Conservation efforts at the site focus on habitat restoration and predator management to ensure these species thrive in the coming decades.

“Finding a mainland population of Raukawa geckos would be a game-changer for our conservation efforts,” says Melinda.

“The discovery would underscore the importance of continued monitoring and protection of our natural spaces. Who knows what else we might find?”

For now, the survey team is keeping the exact location under wraps to protect the geckos from poaching or disturbance.

The public is encouraged to support conservation efforts by respecting protected areas and reporting any native lizard sightings to local conservation grou

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement marking two years since the beginning of the devastating war in Sudan

Source: Government of Canada News

April 15, 2025 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, unequivocally denounce the ongoing conflict, atrocities and grave human rights violations and abuses in Sudan, as the world marks two years since the beginning of the devastating war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

As a direct result of the actions of the SAF and the RSF, the people of Sudan, especially women and children, are enduring the world’s largest humanitarian and displacement crises, and continued atrocities, including widespread conflict-related sexual violence, ethnically motivated attacks and reprisal killings. These must end immediately.

We strongly condemn the RSF attacks carried out in and around El Fasher on the Zamzam and Abu Shouk IDP camps, which have caused numerous casualties, including humanitarian workers. Civilians must be protected and allowed safe passage.

As famine continues to spread across Sudan, G7 members are disturbed by reports of the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and reiterate that such actions are prohibited under international humanitarian law.

We call on the warring parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law and their commitments under the Jeddah Declaration, which include the crucial responsibility to distinguish at all times between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military targets.

We call on all parties to the conflict to lift impediments to effective crossline humanitarian assistance, provide assurances of safety and security for local and international humanitarian actors, and allow humanitarian access through all border crossings into Sudan, including through South Sudan and Chad. We recognize the important role of Emergency Response Rooms in providing for and protecting civilians and call for their protection. We further call on all parties to refrain from attacks on critical infrastructure that civilians rely upon, including dams and telecommunications systems.

We call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and urge both the SAF and the RSF to engage meaningfully in serious, constructive negotiations. All external actors must cease any support that further fuels the conflict, in accordance with the Declaration of Principles adopted at the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighbouring Countries in Paris in 2024 and the United Nations arms embargo on Darfur. We condemn all violations and unlawful attacks by the SAF, the RSF, and their allied militias.

For sustainable peace in Sudan, any resolution to the conflict must be rooted in the voices of Sudanese civilians. Women, youth, and civil society must be meaningfully included in all peace processes.

We reaffirm our support for a democratic transition and express our solidarity with the people of Sudan in their efforts to shape the future of their country that reflects their aspirations for freedom, peace and justice.

The sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan are paramount.

G7 members remain committed to deepening collective diplomatic efforts to bring about an end to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and secure an end to the conflict, including through the London Sudan Conference.

MIL OSI Canada News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Kentucky Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excessive Rain

Source: United States Small Business Administration

ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kentucky who sustained economic losses caused by excessive rain, flash flooding and high winds occurring July 30 through August 2, 2024.

The disaster declaration covers the primary county of Breckinridge; and the adjacent counties of Grayson, Hancock, Hardin, Meade and Ohio in Kentucky; as well as Perry in Indiana.

Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.

EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.” 

The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.250% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The deadline to return economic injury applications is December 1, 2025.

###

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

MIL OSI USA News –

April 16, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement marking two years since the beginning of Sudan war
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

G7 Foreign Ministers’ statement marking two years since the beginning of Sudan war

The G7 Foreign Ministers’ have issued a joint statement marking two years since the beginning of the war in Sudan.
We, the G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America and the High Representative of the European Union, unequivocally denounce the ongoing conflict, atrocities and grave human rights violations and abuses in Sudan, as the world marks two years since the beginning of the devastating war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

As a direct result of the actions of the SAF and the RSF, the people of Sudan, especially women and children, are enduring the world’s largest humanitarian and displacement crises, and continued atrocities, including widespread conflict-related sexual violence, ethnically motivated attacks and reprisal killings. These must end immediately.

We strongly condemn the RSF attacks carried out in and around El Fasher on the Zamzam and Abu Shouk IDP camps, which have caused numerous casualties, including humanitarian workers. Civilians must be protected and allowed safe passage.

As famine continues to spread across Sudan, G7 members are disturbed by reports of the use of starvation of civilians as a method of warfare and reiterate that such actions are prohibited under international humanitarian law.

We call on the warring parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law and their commitments under the Jeddah Declaration, which include the crucial responsibility to distinguish at all times between civilians and combatants and between civilian objects and military targets.

We call on all parties to the conflict to lift impediments to effective crossline humanitarian assistance, provide assurances of safety and security for local and international humanitarian actors, and allow humanitarian access through all border crossings into Sudan, including through South Sudan and Chad. We recognize the important role of Emergency Response Rooms in providing for and protecting civilians and call for their protection. We further call on all parties to refrain from attacks on critical infrastructure that civilians rely upon, including dams and telecommunications systems.

We call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and urge both the SAF and the RSF to engage meaningfully in serious, constructive negotiations. All external actors must cease any support that further fuels the conflict, in accordance with the Declaration of Principles adopted at the International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and Neighbouring Countries in Paris in 2024 and the United Nations arms embargo on Darfur. We condemn all violations and unlawful attacks by the SAF, the RSF, and their allied militias.

For sustainable peace in Sudan, any resolution to the conflict must be rooted in the voices of Sudanese civilians. Women, youth, and civil society must be meaningfully included in all peace processes.

We reaffirm our support for a democratic transition and express our solidarity with the people of Sudan in their efforts to shape the future of their country that reflects their aspirations for freedom, peace and justice.

The sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Sudan are paramount.

G7 members remain committed to deepening collective diplomatic efforts to bring about an end to the world’s largest humanitarian crisis and secure an end to the conflict, including through the London Sudan Conference.

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Updates to this page

Published 15 April 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
April 16, 2025