Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police are making enquiries following damage to a number of water meters, directly impacting the Huntly Reservoir water levels.
We would like to hear from anyone with information that could assist our enquiries, including any reports of suspicious behaviour around the Huntly area over the weekend.
You can contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 250407/6712.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (Apr. 3, 2025) – Director of the U.S. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program Adm. Bill Houston, who completed his Submarine Command Course training on Collins-class submarine HMAS Rankin in 2007, and Chief of the Royal Australian Navy Vice Adm. Mark Hammond, a 2003 graduate of the U.S. Navy Submarine Command Course, embarked USS Montana (SSN 794) for a combined operational familiarization opportunity at sea, April 3, 2025.
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
FORT MAGSAYSAY, Philippines — U.S. Army Soldiers of the 25th Infantry Division participated in port operations by moving equipment and aircraft, such as AH-46 Apache and CH-47 Chinook helicopters, in support of Salaknib 25 at Subic Bay, Philippines, April 1, 2025.
Despite driving 60 per cent of the world’s economic expansion in 2024, several countries in the Asia-Pacific region are still not ready to cope with climate shocks and the implications of transitioning to a greener system, according to the 2025 edition of the Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific.
Published today by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the report highlights the complex macroeconomic-climate interplay. It outlines the challenges testing the economic resilience of the region – including slower productivity growth, high public debt risks and rising trade tensions.
“Increasing global economic uncertainty and deepening climate risks are also not making it easy for the fiscal and monetary policymakers,” said Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP. “Navigating this evolving landscape requires not only sound national policies but also coordinated regional efforts to safeguard long-term economic prospects and tackle climate change.”
Among the 30 countries analysed in the Survey, 11 were identified as more exposed to climate risks from the macroeconomic perspective: Afghanistan, Cambodia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kazakhstan, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Viet Nam.
There are also significant disparities in coping ability across the region. While some countries have mobilized sizeable climate finance and adopted green policies, others face a range of challenges, including fiscal constraints, weaker financial systems and limited public financial management capacity.
The Survey delves into how countries are undertaking policies to manage the diverse economic challenges of climate change. For example, balancing industrial growth with climate goals in the Republic of Korea, addressing climate risks due to the dependence on agriculture in Lao PDR and on fossil fuels in Kazakhstan, and advancing policy action in coastal economies like Bangladesh and small island nations like Vanuatu that face severe climate impacts.
Despite remaining relatively vibrant in comparison with the rest of the world, average economic growth in the developing economies in the Asia-Pacific region slowed to 4.8 per cent in 2024 from 5.2 per cent in 2023 and 5.5 per cent during the five years prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the case of least developed countries, the 2024 average economic growth rate of 3.7 per cent was significantly lower than the 7 per cent per annum GDP growth target set out in Sustainable Development Goal 8.
Labour productivity growth in Asia and the Pacific has slowed significantly since the global financial crisis in 2008, with stagnating income convergence with the world’s advanced economies. Between 2010 and 2024, only 19 of 44 Asia-Pacific developing countries achieved income convergence, leaving 25 further behind.
To secure long-term economic prosperity, the Survey underscores the need for proactive government support in upgrading into more productive, higher value-added economic sectors. The region also needs to capitalize its robust competitiveness in green industries and value chains as new engines of economic growth, as well as embrace inclusive regional economic cooperation, which serves the development aspirations of both developed and developing countries.
Access the full report : https://www.unescap.org/kp/2025/survey2025
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is the most inclusive intergovernmental platform in the Asia-Pacific region. The Commission promotes cooperation among its 53 member States and 9 associate members in pursuit of solutions to sustainable development challenges. ESCAP is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations.
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government has announced the New Zealand Green Investment Finance (NZGIF) will stop making new investments and will wind down its existing portfolio, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says.
“Almost $400 million has been invested with very limited results and there are more than 20 other government funds operating with similar objectives to the NZGIF,” Mr Watts says.
“Alongside this, the market for low emission investments has grown, there are more funding and financing products, and we have a more robust Emissions Trading Scheme, reducing the need for government involvement.
“This Government is serious about climate change, that’s why we have committed to doubling renewable energy, investing in technology to lower emissions while boosting productivity, and cutting barriers to green investment.
“We will prioritise actions that have the greatest impact on emissions and growth and will provide real value for money. In the current economic environment New Zealanders want assurance that taxpayer money is being well spent and delivering results. We believe NZGIF is no longer aligned to that vision.”
The transition will be carried out in a structured and responsible manner, ensuring that all stakeholders are kept informed.
Within 90 days NZGIF will develop a plan for Ministers outlining how changes at the company will be implemented.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
Drivers travelling on sections of State Highway 1 on Vivian Street and Kent Terrace can expect smoother journeys ahead, with resurfacing works planned next week.
Three nights of work are planned for Sunday, 13 April, Tuesday, 15 April, and Wednesday, 16 April. Weather permitting, work crews will be on site between 9 pm and 4:30 am each night.
Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Alliance Manager, says these central city sections of State Highway 1 are heavily used.
“Heavy traffic causes damage over time, and these areas need resurfacing. It will make travel through the CBD smoother and safer for drivers.”
Ms Hilliard says the aim is to get the work done as quickly as possible.
“Work crews will work at night when traffic volumes are lower. Vivian Street and Kent Terrace are busy during the day, and we do not want to disrupt traffic in peak periods because of the delays this would cause.”
She says the work will require altered lane layouts, a one-night closure of SH1/Vivian Street between Tory Street and Kent Terrace, and a two-night closure of the Kent Terrace/Pirie Street intersection.
“Unfortunately, we cannot do this sort of work without affecting traffic. However, there are alternative routes on local roads drivers can use.”
“People will still be able to get through the central city, they will just need to allow for a little more travel time,” Ms Hilliard says.
Work crews will do their best to control noise and its impact on inner-city residents. Residents can expect to hear noise on nights when work is underway near their properties. We aim to complete the noisiest part of the work between 9 pm and 11 pm.
Source: Samsung
Galaxy S25 series users can experience new visual conversation capabilities through a free software update
AUCKLAND, New Zealand – April 8, 2025 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced the rollout of a new AI experience with Gemini Live, bringing real-time visual conversations with AI to Galaxy users. The feature will begin rolling out on April 7, starting with the Galaxy S25 series available for any users free of charge.
Through AI-powered assistance, Galaxy users can more naturally engage in conversational interactions that make everyday tasks easier. Just press and hold the side button to show Gemini Live[1] what you see while simultaneously interacting with it in a live conversation.
Imagine picking out an outfit or reorganising a closet. Gemini Live can now make those everyday decisions easier. By simply pointing the camera, users can get suggestions on how to categorise items and optimise space, or share their screen while browsing online retailers to receive personalised style advice. With the ability to see what the user sees and respond in real time, Galaxy S25 series feels like a trusted friend who’s always ready to help.
“Together with Google, we are marking a bold step toward the future of mobile AI, delivering smarter interactions that are deeply in sync with how we live, work and communicate,” said Jay Kim, Executive Vice President and Head of Customer Experience Office, Mobile eXperience Business at Samsung Electronics. “With this new visual capability, Galaxy S25 series brings next-generation AI experiences to life, setting new standards for how users engage with the world through their devices.”
On April 7, Gemini Live with camera and screen sharing capabilities will start rolling out to all Galaxy S25 series users at no additional cost. For more information about Galaxy S25 series, please visit: Samsung Newsroom, Samsungmobilepress.com and Samsung.com.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.
Source: IHC
Joint Statement – Disability advocates, including IHC and New Zealand Down Syndrome Association, are calling on the New Zealand Government to reverse a deeply discriminatory immigration policy that targets children with intellectual disabilities.
A six-year-old boy with Down syndrome, the child of a South African couple living in Waikato, is facing deportation following new immigration rules introduced by Minister of Immigration Erica Stanford. Under changes announced in March, children of temporary visa holders who have a “severe cognitive or development disorder that requires significant support” are no longer eligible for student or visitor visas.
“This policy sends a chilling message: that children with intellectual disabilities are not welcome here,” said Tania Thomas, Director of Advocacy at IHC. “We work with many talented people with intellectual disabilities who bring enormous value to our workplaces and communities. These changes are shameful.”
Zandra Vaccarino, National Executive Officer for the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA), says this is not an isolated case.
“Just last week, I spoke to another family with a four-year-old son who was declined a visa. These decisions are devastating, and the process is not only unjust, it’s traumatic,” says Zandra.
“Such refusals reflect systemic discrimination and are driven by policies that perpetuate ableist assumptions, which ignore the value and potential of people with Down syndrome and violate their fundamental rights — including those protected under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), to which New Zealand is a signatory.”
Advocates say the new policy compounds an already discriminatory immigration system, which bars many disabled people from becoming permanent residents due to the so-called “acceptable standard of health” criteria.
The new policy also appears to fly in the face of international human rights obligations. In 2022, the (UNCRPD) criticised New Zealand’s immigration rules, saying the health criteria allowed for discrimination against disabled people in practice.
Rather than acting on those recommendations, the Government has introduced stricter visa settings for families with disabled children. Disability advocates say this signals a worrying trend: instead of addressing underfunding in the education system, the Government is pushing the burden onto migrant families.
“The education system is stretched – that’s not in dispute. But punishing disabled children and their families for systemic underfunding is not the solution,” says Tania. “This move effectively blames vulnerable children for the state’s failure to invest in inclusive education.”
Minister Stanford has said the new rules will improve transparency, preventing situations where a child is granted a temporary visa but later denied residency due to high support needs. However, advocates argue that “transparency” is being used to justify unfair and exclusionary treatment.
The United Nations has urged New Zealand to remove discriminatory provisions from its immigration policy, yet there has been no substantive change. When questioned by media, Minister Stanford declined to comment on individual cases. Her spokesperson reiterated that support for children with additional needs is “significantly oversubscribed” and that it is “entirely appropriate” to ensure the education system can respond to New Zealand children first.
But Tania says blaming underfunding in the education system is no excuse for targeting children with disabilities.
“This isn’t a funding issue. It’s a values issue,” she said. “New Zealand must decide whether it sees disabled children as a burden or as equal members of our society.”
About IHC New Zealand
IHC New Zealand advocates for the rights, inclusion and welfare of all people with intellectual disabilities and supports them to live satisfying lives in the community. IHC provides advocacy, volunteering, events, membership associations and fundraising. It is part of the IHC Group, which also includes IDEA Services, Choices NZ and Accessible Properties.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health
This research report was commissioned by the Ministry to help inform the Review of Certain Matters under the Contraception, Sterilisation, and Abortion Act 1977. It was one of three reports commissioned for three different consumer groups.
The research report focuses on the experiences of rainbow people and provides insights into how abortion health care services are perceived and accessed by this group since changes to the law in 2020.
The overarching theme from the report of rainbow people involved the structural heteronormative discrimination of the health system against the rainbow community. A central component of this discrimination was a lack of recognition of the reproductive potential, ability and needs of the rainbow population.
Three reports were commissioned of three different consumer groups, and a brief summary of the reports below outlines some common themes about abortion health care services since law change.
Where comparisons are made to abortion services prior to law change, these changes have improved the experience of the people involved in these reports. The ability to use telehealth, self-refer, and improvements in timeliness are particularly noted across the reports. The use of telehealth appears to be a useful option for some, while others had issues with the technology.
Intersecting layers of societal discrimination and inequity were described as key drivers of experience for rainbow and disabled people.
Abortion remains a sensitive topic, particularly for rainbow and disabled people. However, providers of abortion services were overwhelmingly perceived to be accepting and non-judgmental, suggesting that the concerns expressed by some people interviewed reflected biases outside of the abortion services.
All groups reported some difficulties in accessing information regarding abortion despite information being available through multiple mechanisms. However, once individuals were engaged with abortion services the quality and availability of information was reported as being adequate.
The reports identified a potential issue regarding the availability and timing of abortion counselling. Regarding contraception, ongoing contraception appears to be discussed routinely as standard practice, although some individuals felt they were provided with limited options or not provided with a full explanation of the risks and benefits of the range of options offered.
The other two reports, for Māori and Pacific peoples and disabled people are available here:
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health
This research report was commissioned by the Ministry to help inform the Review of Certain Matters under the Contraception, Sterilisation, and Abortion Act 1977. It was one of three reports commissioned for three different consumer groups.
The research report focuses on the experiences of disabled people and provides insights into how abortion health care services are perceived and accessed by this group since changes to the law in 2020.
The over-arching themes from the report for disabled people was that provision of abortion services for people with disabilities is positioned within a wider societal attitude to disability and eugenics. The issue of abortion services for disabled people is presented as a human rights issue which is highlighted within the group of disabled people because of the association with inheritable disease.
Three reports were commissioned of three different consumer groups, and a brief summary of the reports below outlines some common themes about abortion health care services since law change.
Where comparisons are made to abortion services prior to law change, these changes have improved the experience of the people involved in these reports. The ability to use telehealth, self-refer, and improvements in timeliness are particularly noted across the reports. The use of telehealth appears to be a useful option for some, while others had issues with the technology.
Intersecting layers of societal discrimination and inequity were described as key drivers of experience for rainbow and disabled people.
Abortion remains a sensitive topic, particularly for rainbow and disabled people. However, providers of abortion services were overwhelmingly perceived to be accepting and non-judgmental, suggesting that the concerns expressed by some people interviewed reflected biases outside of the abortion services.
All groups reported some difficulties in accessing information regarding abortion despite information being available through multiple mechanisms. However, once individuals were engaged with abortion services the quality and availability of information was reported as being adequate.
The reports identified a potential issue regarding the availability and timing of abortion counselling. Regarding contraception, ongoing contraception appears to be discussed routinely as standard practice, although some individuals felt they were provided with limited options or not provided with a full explanation of the risks and benefits of the range of options offered.
The other two reports, for Māori and Pacific peoples and rainbow people are available here:
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health
This research report was commissioned by the Ministry to help inform the Review of Certain Matters under the Contraception, Sterilisation, and Abortion Act 1977. It was one of three reports commissioned for three different consumer groups.
The research report focuses on the experiences of Māori and Pacific peoples and provides insights into how abortion health care services are perceived and accessed by this group since changes to the law in 2020.
The over-arching theme from this study was that abortion services had become safer and more accessible since the legislation changed, but ongoing improvements are required to move clinical care for abortions beyond the procedure itself in order to provide culturally safe and ongoing care for women.
Three reports were commissioned of three different consumer groups, and a brief summary of the reports below outlines some common themes about abortion health care services since law change.
Where comparisons are made to abortion services prior to law change, these changes have improved the experience of the people involved in these reports. The ability to use telehealth, self-refer, and improvements in timeliness are particularly noted across the reports. The use of telehealth appears to be a useful option for some, while others had issues with the technology.
Intersecting layers of societal discrimination and inequity were described as key drivers of experience for rainbow and disabled people.
Abortion remains a sensitive topic, particularly for rainbow and disabled people. However, providers of abortion services were overwhelmingly perceived to be accepting and non-judgmental, suggesting that the concerns expressed by some people interviewed reflected biases outside of the abortion services.
All groups reported some difficulties in accessing information regarding abortion despite information being available through multiple mechanisms. However, once individuals were engaged with abortion services the quality and availability of information was reported as being adequate.
The reports identified a potential issue regarding the availability and timing of abortion counselling. Regarding contraception, ongoing contraception appears to be discussed routinely as standard practice, although some individuals felt they were provided with limited options or not provided with a full explanation of the risks and benefits of the range of options offered.
The other two reports, for rainbow people and disabled people are available here:
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health
This is the first periodic Review of Certain Matters under the Contraception, Sterilisation, and Abortion Act 1977.
The review identifies that some good progress has occurred. There is increased access to abortion services, with more providers, and an increase of locations of provision. In addition, we have Increased access to early abortion services through the telehealth services DECIDE as well as in primary health care and community settings through funded EMA medicines and clarification of funding available through the Primary Maternity Services Notice. The introduction of clinical guidelines to support clinical practice in abortion care and the Standard for Abortion Counselling in New Zealand have also been beneficial.
However, there is work to do to improve access, especially for women seeking abortion health care who live in rural communities and who require surgical or follow-up health care. Cost, service consistency and access to counselling services also vary greatly across regions.
The scope of the review is set in the legislation and is focused on how the current law is working. This means that:
Under the legislation, the review must also include consideration of whether there is any evidence of abortions being sought solely because of a preference for the fetus to be of a particular sex.
These reports were commissioned to help inform the review.
Source: Reserve Bank of India
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8 April 2025 – Christian Hawkesby has been appointed as Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand for a six-month term by the Minister of Finance, upon the recommendation of the RBNZ Board.
Mr Hawkesby has been acting Governor since 5 March and will be Governor from 8 April for six months while the recruitment of a Governor to serve for a five-year term takes place. Mr Hawkesby’s appointment may be extended by the Minister of Finance for up to three additional months.
“I am proud to step into the role of Governor and continue contributing to our mission of working to enable economic prosperity and wellbeing for all New Zealanders,” Mr Hawkesby says.
Board Chair Neil Quigley says, “Mr Hawkesby’s leadership and expertise have been invaluable to Te Pūtea Matua since he joined the RBNZ in 2019. His appointment reflects both his contributions and our confidence in his ability to continue strengthening New Zealand’s financial system, chair the Monetary Policy Committee and be CEO of RBNZ.”
The RBNZ board has commenced the recruitment process to nominate for appointment a Governor who will serve for five years. During the recruitment process the MPC will consist of 3 internal RBNZ staff and 3 external members. The MPC Chair holds a casting vote.
More information
For further information on making a temporary appointment, please see:
https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2021/0031/latest/LMS287123.html
For further information on the MPC’s quorum, please see: https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2021/0031/latest/LMS287133.html
RBNZ Governor Adrian Orr resigns: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=18640a250c&e=f3c68946f8
Christian Hawkesby – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=ed7e50fcfa&e=f3c68946f8
Mr Hawkesby joined Te Pūtea Matua in 2019 and was appointed Deputy Governor/General Manager of the Financial Stability Group after serving as Assistant Governor. He previously helped establish Harbour Asset Management and spent nine years in senior roles at the Bank of England. He holds a Master of Commerce (Hons) in Economics from the University of Canterbury.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The new Bill includes several key amendments designed to improve access to altruistic surrogacy.
More Canberrans, including those experiencing infertility and single people, can now pursue parenthood through altruistic surrogacy.
Today the ACT Government passed the Parentage (Surrogacy) Amendment Bill 2023.
This milestone in the advancement of reproductive rights better aligns the Territory’s surrogacy laws with those in other Australian jurisdictions.
The Bill includes several key amendments designed to improve access to altruistic surrogacy.
It strengthens human rights protections for intended parents, surrogates and children born through surrogacy.
Once the Bill is notified, there will no longer be a requirement that there be two intended parents to enter into a surrogacy arrangement.
This allows single people in the ACT to consider surrogacy as pathway to parenthood.
There will also no longer be a requirement for any intended parents to have a genetic connection with the child.
The changes remove the requirements that one intended parent be a genetic parent of the child.
They instead allow for traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate themselves is the genetic parent of the child.
This means that:
This increases options, especially for people experiencing infertility.
In addition to expanding access, the reforms also:
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Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Toilets will be installed at Ruth Park Playground in Coombs.
2024–25 ACT Budget snapshot – Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo
With the ACT’s population set to reach 500,000 people by the end of 2027, the 2024–25 ACT Budget is funding the services and infrastructure this growing city needs.
Through this year’s Budget, the ACT Government is delivering more public health services, providing cost of living relief for those who need it most, and improving housing choice, access and affordability.
Some of the projects funded in Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo include:
A new community services hub for Woden
The Budget includes funding a new Woden Community Services Hub.
The Hub will replace the existing four buildings currently operated by Woden Community Service, bringing together community and government services within one facility.
Integrating a walk-in health clinic, child and family services and other vital community services, the Hub will provide residents the support they need – efficiently and in one place.
It will also offer more spaces for people to mix and meet as the region grows.
The ACT Government’s Indicative Land Release Program for 2024–25 to 2028–29 will help cater to the ACT’s growing population.
As part of the program, 11,028 new homes are planned for Woden Valley, Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley.
Work to duplicate part of Athllon Drive is set to start in the coming months.
The ACT Government will invest in the project through the 2024–25 ACT Budget, as part of a 50:50 funding agreement with the Australian Government.
The project will see the duplication of 2.4 kilometres of Athllon Drive between Sulwood Drive and Drakeford Drive.
This Budget will also provide support for:
New and upgraded community infrastructure
The 2024-25 ACT Budget will support new and upgraded community facilities and infrastructure across the city.
Projects include:
The Government will also respond to community feedback regarding resources at ACT libraries. There will be new portable phone chargers and more power boards and charging stations, in addition to improving building security.
More funding for mowing and horticulture
The combination of unpredictable weather and a growing city have increased demands on those taking care of Canberra’s grass, trees, weeds and gardens.
The Budget will include funding for 10 full-time positions and eight additional mowers to deliver an expanded baseline capacity in our mowing teams.
In the low season, mowing crews will assist with horticultural work across the city, including weeding, road edging and maintenance.
More health services
The 2024–25 ACT Budget is investing in health programs and infrastructure for the region.
This includes investing in the continuing redevelopment Canberra Hospital and a new pathology and clinical support building on the campus.
This Budget will also support the establishment of:
The region will benefit from a new suite of system-wide literacy and numeracy initiatives, called Strong Foundations, being rolled out across ACT public schools. The program will ensure all students have access to consistent, high-quality literacy and numeracy education.
This Budget will also support:
There will also be a range of school upgrades across Canberra as part of the ACT Government’s annual Asset Renewal Program.
Find out what else has been funded as part of the 2024-25 ACT Budget by clicking here.
11,028 new homes are planned for Woden Valley, Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley.
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Source: China State Council Information Office
China said on Monday that it found no abnormality in the activity concentration of hazardous elements such as tritium, cesium-134, cesium-137 and strontium-90 in seawater and marine life samples the country independently collected from waters nearby the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station.
The samples were collected by domestic laboratories in late February under the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency, according to a statement released by the China Atomic Energy Authority.
“As China has repeatedly pointed out, a single test result showing no abnormalities does not guarantee that future tests will also be problem-free,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said on Monday, noting that China’s stance against Japan’s discharge of nuclear-contaminated water has never changed.
“We will continue to work with the international community and relevant professional organizations, such as the IAEA, to urge Japan to earnestly fulfill its commitments and ensure that the ocean discharge is under international supervision,” Lin told reporters at a regular news briefing in Beijing.
According to Lin, during the sixth China-Japan High-Level Economic Dialogue held in Tokyo last month, the Japanese side reaffirmed that it will accept long-term international monitoring of its discharge of nuclear-contaminated water and Beijing’s independent sampling and monitoring.
It was based on Japan’s fulfillment of its commitment and the fact that no abnormality was found in the analysis that China’s General Administration of Customs held a technical exchange with the Japanese side in Beijing on March 12 regarding the safety of Japanese seafood, the spokesman said.
“The Chinese government always puts its people above all else and is firmly committed to safeguarding the food safety of its people,” Lin said.
China independently collected the samples in October last year and February, after the Japanese government unilaterally started discharging nuclear-contaminated water into the ocean on Aug 24, 2023.
Source: New Zealand Government
A high-level delegation from across New Zealand’s Parliament will visit the Pacific over the coming week, led by Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters.
“New Zealand’s commitment to the Pacific is long-term and endures through successive governments and across the political spectrum,” Mr Peters says. “That’s why we are visiting the region with a senior delegation from across our Parliament to listen to our partners and learn more about the Pacific’s priorities.”
“The Pacific is grappling with a complex, challenging geostrategic and economic environment, and New Zealand is committed to doing its part to help,” Mr Peters says.
“New Zealand has deep connections in the Pacific, befitting our close historical, strategic, economic, and people-to-people links, and reflecting our place in the Pacific Islands Forum family.
“It is incumbent on us to regularly spend quality time in the Pacific to renew relationships and ensure that we are working with our partners towards mutually-beneficial cooperation. The upcoming Pacific tour is part of this ongoing process.”
Alongside Mr Peters, the delegation comprises:
The delegation leaves New Zealand on Thursday (10 April), and includes time in Tonga, Hawai’i and Vanuatu. It returns to New Zealand on 17 April.
Source: New Zealand Labour Party
Long-serving Labour MP and former Minister David Parker has today announced his intention to leave Parliament.
“It has been a privilege to be elected by the people of New Zealand to represent their interests in Parliament for the last 23 years,” David Parker said.
“I have served to the best of my ability as Attorney General and Minister of Trade, Revenue, Economic Development, Associate Finance, Climate Change, Energy, Environment, State Services, Transport and Land Information.
“In Opposition my roles have included Finance, Foreign Affairs, Treaty Settlements, Conservation and Deputy Leader.
“I leave enthusiastic for New Zealand and for the New Zealand Labour Party. I want to thank my Parliamentary colleagues and wish them well for the hard work ahead.
“I was a serial entrepreneur before coming to Parliament and have been an agent for change while here. I will return to the private sector and continue building a prosperous and egalitarian nation,” David Parker said.
David Parker will deliver a valedictory speech in early May. A date will be confirmed once agreed with the Business Committee.
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Source: New Zealand Labour Party
The Labour Leader today acknowledged and celebrated David Parker’s 23-year contribution to the Labour Party and to Parliament.
“David Parker is a principled and talented Parliamentarian and the Labour team will miss him,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.
“He is optimistic and hard-working and has served in a variety of roles in Government and Opposition – from energy, environment and transport to infrastructure, finance and foreign affairs. He was also deputy Leader of the Labour Party.
“David has achieved an awful lot in his time here. No one’s work in politics is ever finished and I’m sure he steps away with that same sense.
“What I know to be true is he made a difference, and contributed to a higher quality of life for New Zealanders.
“I want to thank David for his service to Parliament and to the Labour Party. I am certain his contribution to New Zealand is not over,” Chris Hipkins said.
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Source: ACT Party
ACT is encouraging public sector organisations to make use of 90-day employment trials, once a law change announced today allows for it.
Today Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced the end of the ‘30-day rule’ which forces new employees onto collective contracts even if they are not union members. The removal of this rule will make it possible for public sector agencies to hire employees on a trial basis.
“Private businesses use 90-day trials prudently to take a chance on workers without fear of being locked into a dysfunctional employment relationship. It’s sensible business practice that should be extended to the public sector,” says ACT Public Service spokesperson Todd Stephenson.
“The public sector’s primary responsibility is to the general taxpayer, not its own employees. If it becomes clear in the first few weeks of employment that a new worker can’t deliver for taxpayers, that worker should be let go – so long as employment law allows for it.
“Brooke van Velden’s reforms mean taxpayers stand to save millions of dollars in golden handshakes and protracted performance management processes. Let’s make the most of this opportunity.”
Source: Statistics New Zealand
Selected price indexes − rental data for February and March 2025 – 8 April 2025 – Selected price indexes: March 2025 will include the national-level stock measure for actual rentals for housing for February and March 2025.
Actual rentals for housing data were not included in the February 2025 selected price indexes (SPI) as the dataset used to compile this information was incomplete, and Stats NZ was not confident the measure would meet customer expectations.
Stats NZ has worked closely with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to provide some requirements and update processes for the dataset, and we are now confident that the data and stock measure for February and March meet expectations. We do not expect further disruptions.
The other series within the SPI remain unaffected, and the upcoming March 2025 quarter Consumers price index (CPI) will be produced using the full three months of actual rentals for housing data for the period
Note: The March 2025 SPI release will not include the flow of rental properties measures (national and regional) as we are still working to integrate this, following an update to MBIE’s tenancy bond-lodgement system. The flow measures, which do not affect the CPI, will be included when we are confident they meet customer expectations.
Source: New Zealand Government
Acting Reserve Bank Governor Christian Hawkesby has been appointed as Governor of the Reserve Bank for a six month period, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.
The appointment is effective from 8 April 2025 and can be extended by up to three months with written notice.
“Mr Hawkesby is an experienced central banker who has held a number of senior positions at the Reserve Bank.
His appointment was recommended by the Reserve Bank board and will help ensure the continued integrity and operations of the Reserve Bank while the search for a permanent Governor is underway.
“During his term, the board will support Mr Hawkesby to implement the bank’s new five-year funding agreement which will apply from 1 July 2025.
“I look forward to continuing to work with him in his new role.”
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is making changes to prescriber regulations, giving New Zealanders better access to medicines, Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister David Seymour say.“We are committed to ensuring Kiwis have access to timely, quality healthcare in their communities,” Mr Brown says.“Making our health system more efficient and enabling our health workforce to better care for their patients is a key part of this.“Changes to the Medicines Act introduced to Parliament last week will give nurse practitioners, who are highly skilled health professionals, increased prescribing rights within their scope of practice.“Nurse practitioners work in a range of environments, including in rural areas and in aged residential care, and provide a key role caring for patients.“These changes will mean Nurse Practitioners will be able to prescribe more medicines, providing more and better continuity of care for their patients. “They will also mean that when there are supply shortages of approved medicines, other professions, such as dentists, pharmacist prescribers, midwives, and registered nurse prescribers, will be able to prescribe replacement medicines that are funded by Pharmac.”Together, these changes are about increasing access to medicines for patients and supporting the Government’s objective of ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely and quality healthcare.”The changes are included in the Medicines Amendment Bill, which amends the Medicines Act 1981.“The Medicines Amendment Bill also enables medicines to be approved in less than 30 days if the product has approval from two recognised overseas jurisdictions. This provides a quicker and easier option for pharmaceutical companies to get products approved in New Zealand,” Mr Seymour says.“We know expanding access to medicines significantly improves New Zealanders’ health and life outcomes.“We’ve already taken a range of actions to give Kiwis better access to medicines. In addition to regulatory changes, we have made a record investment in Pharmac and provided additional funding for cancer and other medicines. “The Medicines Amendment Bill also updates the settings for the Medicines Classification Committee, which has an important role in providing access to medicines. The Bill modernises the membership requirements for the Committee and removes outdated provisions from the Act.”The Government is also progressing work on a new Medical Products Bill, to replace the Medicines Act 1981.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Are you watching the ABC’s new comedy series, Austin?
Set in Canberra and London, Austin shines a light on Canberra’s major national institutions, iconic concrete bus stops and local suburban gems.
Produced by the award-winning team at Northern Pictures – in partnership with the ABC, Screen Australia, ITV Studios, and Screen Canberra – Austin is the acting debut for Love on the Spectrum fan-favourite, Michael Theo. Theo stars in the series alongside renowned UK actors, Ben Miller and Sally Phillips, and beloved Australian icons Gia Carides and Roy Billing.
Whether you’re an excited Canberran or simply curious about where the show was filmed, the Our CBR team has rounded up all the Canberra locations used on the set of Austin.
Concrete Bus Shelter
Nestled into our suburbs, you only have to step out and take a short walk before you come across one of Canberra’s iconic concrete bus shelters. Designed in 1974 by Canberra architect Clem Cummings, there are over 450 of these bus shelters throughout the city.
The bus shelter seen on Austin can be found on King George Terrace in Parkes.
Book Lore
Austin’s alternative bookstore ‘The True Reader’ is actually Book Lore at the Lyneham shops!
Book Lore has been selling quality second-hand books at Lyneham for over 40 years. They don’t cater to the “specific” audience referenced in Austin, but they do have a diverse collection of literature, non-fiction, and children’s books on offer.
Book Lore
94 Wattle Street, Lyneham, ACT 2602
The Front
Locals from the Inner North would recognise the set of the Magpie Café anywhere. It’s The Front at Lyneham shops.
The Front
1 Wattle Pl, Lyneham ACT 2602
ANCA Gallery in Dickson
Disguised as a boutique gallery in outer-London, you might recognise the Australian National Capital Artists Inc. (ANCA) gallery located in Dickson. It is featured throughout episode 8.
Australian National Capital Artists (ANCA)
1 Rosevear Place, Dickson, Australian Capital Territory, Australia 2602
Thor’s Hammer
Observant viewers may have noticed the ‘Thor’s Hammer’ logo on Austin’s work uniform. Located in Griffith, Thor’s Hammer is a local timber recycling and design workshop – they also have a showroom and gallery.
Thor’s Hammer
10 Mildura Street, Griffith, ACT 2603
The Hyatt Hotel Canberra
The manicured gardens and stunning 1920’s architecture of the heritage-listed Hyatt Hotel (or the ‘Canberra Hotel’ in Austin) is a prominent backdrop throughout the show.
Hyatt Hotel Canberra
120 Commonwealth Avenue, Canberra, ACT 2600
The Marion
Iconic Canberra venue the Marion was used as the set for the hotel restaurant at ‘Canberra Hotel’. You won’t find the handsome barman Luke, but you can grab a delicious flat white and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Burley Griffin.
The Marion
Barrine Drive, Regatta Point, Commonwealth Park, Parkes ACT 2600
The National Library of Australia
Looking for the radiant bookshop with stained-glass windows from episode one? Look no further than the National Library Bookshop! You will not find copies of Big Bear in stock, but they have a fantastic range of Australian authors and award-winning titles.
And this is not the only NLA cameo in the show – the London-based office spaces in the show were also shot at the National Library.
The National Library of Australia
Parkes Place West, Canberra, ACT 2600
Museum of Australian Democracy
Featuring heritage spaces restored to their original condition and contemporary exhibitions about individuals and events of Australian democracy, you can’t miss MoAD’s cameo in episode two!
The Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
18 King George Terrace, Parkes, ACT
Rebel Rebel
Eagle-eyed viewers may have noticed familiar wooden beams in a nameless but effortlessly cool ‘London’ restaurant. That is because the location was actually Rebel Rebel, dressed as London but filmed right here in Canberra!
Rebel Rebel
21-23 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra, ACT
Australian Parliament House
The pinnacle of Canberra’s cultural institutions, you cannot visit the stationary office, but you can take a guided tour, visit the café, and see an impressive collection of Australian art.
Australian Parliament House
Parliament Drive, Canberra
Austin premiered on Sunday 9 June at 8pm on ABC TV, and all eight episodes are available to stream on ABC iView.
Austin was supported by the ACT Government and Screen Canberra through the CBR Screen Attraction Fund and CBR Screen Investment Fund.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
Louise Skačej will collaborate with a strong team to create Stasia Dabrowski’s sculpture.
Artist Louise Skačej will create the public artwork honouring Stasia Dabrowski OAM, Canberra’s ‘Soup Kitchen Lady’.
This commission is part of an ongoing ACT Government initiative to celebrate significant Canberra women through public art.
Stasia (1926–2020) ran a mobile soup kitchen from a corner of Garema Place for almost 40 years.
She fed thousands of vulnerable Canberrans and is being recognised for decades of selfless service.
Her sculpture will be installed in Garema Place in early 2026.
It will be located close to where Stasia’s original soup kitchen once stood.
The artwork will create a permanent tribute to her extraordinary life and work.
Louise will collaborate with a strong team to create Stasia’s sculpture. This includes:
With her immigrant background, Louise’s art often explores themes of culture, heritage, and memory.
Canberrans may recognise Louise’s work. She collaborated with Dean to create her thought-provoking artwork the Battle of Kapyong Diorama. This is displayed at the Australian War Memorial.
“I’m honoured and grateful for the opportunity to create a sculpture of Stasia Dabrowski,” Louise said.
“Her simple but profound act of sharing love and compassion, shows us that love isn’t just a word – it’s something we do.”
“I hope this sculpture will inspire others to take action and bring light to those in need, just like Stasia did for so many.”
Those in need of a good meal – or even just a hug – knew they could rely on Stasia.
Every Friday night between 1982 and 2018, she served homemade soup, bread and drinks to the hungry.
As well as paying for and serving the food, Stasia put in the hours preparing it.
She would babysit and clean houses to earn enough to buy the ingredients. On Thursdays, she would peel and cook 180 kilograms of vegetables to get ready for the next day.
By 2000, Stasia was providing several hundred loaves of bread and at least 100 litres of homemade vegetable soup. She would feed over 300 people each Friday night.
Stasia won numerous awards and accolades for her charity work. These included:
Stasia, however, remained humble about the work she was doing.
“I never keep photos because I am not proud… the soup kitchen is a simple thing, people cooking veggies, nothing special,” she said at the time.
Stasia continued her work until the age of 92 and passed away two years later in 2020.
More information on the public art commissioning process is available from artsACT.
Stasia Dabrowski at the National Portrait Gallery, 2008. Courtesy of the National Portrait Gallery.
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Source: South Australia Police
The City will increase its maintenance of streetscapes, pedestrian access ways and town centres, following a streetscape and verge management review.
Endorsed by Council in 2024, the review aimed to achieve consistent and improved streetscape management services across the City, with a focus on safety and sustainability.
Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken said as well as identifying efficient and cost-effective ways to increase the maintenance of all City streets, a key focus of the review was to prepare the City for reductions to groundwater allocations that will come into effect within the next five years.
“Water is a precious resource in Australia, and by introducing priority zones that align with the City’s Urban Forest Strategy, we can make sure we are prepared for these impending reductions.”
As part of the review, the City has also implemented a consistent approach to residential verge management, where residents are responsible for the maintenance of the verge adjacent to their property.
“Taking the time to care for your verge is a great way to improve the appearance of your street, contribute to a more sustainable City and get to know your neighbours,” Mayor Aitken said.
For more information about the streetscape review, visit wanneroo.wa.gov.au/streetscapes.