NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fresh stats reinforce tourism’s contribution to the economy

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New figures out today again reinforce the importance of tourism to sustained economic growth, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.

    International Visitor Survey results for the year ending December 2024 show a significant increase of 23 per cent in annual visitor spend. 

    “These figures are further encouragement for a sector which continues to work really hard to regain its pre-2019 ground,” Louise Upston says.

    “While the annual visitor spend is still below pre-pandemic levels, it’s clearly on the rise. 

    “Today’s MBIE numbers show that international visitors spent $12.2 billion in New Zealand in 2024, including $3.2 billion in the December quarter alone. When adjusted for inflation, this is 86 per cent of 2019 levels.

    “The increase in spending aligns with a higher number of international visitors to our shores, up 12 per cent from the previous year.  

    “Visitors on holiday typically spend more than those visiting for other reasons, and because there were more international holidaymakers in 2024, that drove up the overall spend.

    “While different data sets and time periods mean some differences between these figures and those released with the Tourism Satellite Account last week, the consistent message across both is one of positive recovery for tourism in New Zealand. 

    “The International Visitor Survey is our most up to date dataset to track international visitor spending.

    “The Government has a clear priority to unleash economic growth and getting our visitor numbers back to pre-pandemic levels will be critical to that goal. Economic growth is also key to creating more jobs and higher incomes and reducing the cost of living

    “The initiatives we’ve already launched under the Tourism Boost package, including those to support our off-peak travel and regional tourism, will ensure that our tourism industry recovers and thrives.

    “We’ve recently announced

    • $500,000 for marketing New Zealand as the ‘go now’ destination for Australians
    • $30 million to support conservation visitor related experiences
    • $3 million for regional tourism boost
    • $9 million for Great Rides cycle infrastructure

    “That drive to encourage more visitors was also reflected during the Prime Minister’s recent visit to Viet Nam, where Vietjet announced four flights a week between Auckland and Ho Chi Minh City from September.

    “There will be more to come. 2025 is our chance to reinforce the value of tourism to a humming, vibrant country, where we welcome anyone, from anywhere, anytime,” Louise Upston says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – Auckland congestion costing freight companies and customers millions

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih says reducing congestion will have big benefits for freight efficiency, labour productivity, and emissions reduction.
    “The report estimates that congestion in Auckland is costing our trucking members $130 million dollars per year – costs that end up impacting businesses and consumers across the country.
    “Congestion reduces the number of trips that freight operators can complete, puts pressure on drivers who are only legally permitted to work a certain number of hours per day, and pressures freight companies to put more, less efficient vehicles on the road.”
    Kalasih hopes there will broad cross-party support for sending the Government’s Time of Use Charging Bill to the select committee stage so it can consider improvements to the proposed legislation around freight and supply chain implications and exemptions.
    “Getting congestion charging settings right is really challenging, and essential to getting enduring schemes put in place. Only a handful of cities operate comprehensive congestion charging schemes, and there have been many proposals that haven’t gone ahead due to concerns about cost implications and implementation.”
    The latest New York time-of-use scheme is currently subject to legal action by the Trucking Association of New York, alleging that trucks are being disproportionately charged.
    Kalasih says that Transporting New Zealand would like to see exemptions for freight and goods vehicles permitted by the legislation.
    “Transporting New Zealand is concerned that the proposed legislation limits exemptions to emergency vehicles. This is bad news for bus users and road freight businesses who will have to pass costs on to consumers. Overseas schemes allow for wider exemptions that maximise savings for consumers and businesses.”
    “Around half of all vehicles in the London charge area are exempt or qualify for a discount.”
    Kalasih says ruling exemptions out entirely will prevent an evidence-based assessment being done where schemes operate on key freight routes or around freight or passenger hubs.
    He says that Transporting New Zealand will be consulting with its membership on the legislation and making a major submission at any select committee considering the legislation.
    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 –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Primary care funding a positive step in the right direction, says College of GPs

    Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

    The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has welcomed the Health Minister’s funding announcement saying it is a big step in the right direction towards building a well-resourced and sustainable primary care workforce.
    Increased investment in primary care has long been at the forefront of our members’ concerns and the College’s advocacy work, particularly improving access to GP, rural hospital and primary care services and growing, and retaining, the workforce.
    College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “Any additional funding for primary care will ultimately benefit our patients and improve health outcomes, and as specialist GPs and rural hospital doctors who work in the community, this is our priority.
    “As we know there are many areas in primary care that need permanent solutions and further investment, and the Minister has shown that he is willing to invest broadly. I hope that by incentivising primary care to nursing graduates they will see the value in what our workforce does and choose to stay in it for the long-term. This will help alleviate nursing workforce challenges especially in rural communities. Pay parity between primary and secondary nursing is what we still need to aim for.
    “Providing timely and accessible care for all New Zealanders and the increased availability of telehealth will be beneficial, but it needs to be offered alongside improved support for face-to-face primary care services to ensure continued patient safety. Telehealth fills a niche, not a void,” says Dr Murton.
    College Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole says, “Enabling more overseas doctors to gain general registration in primary care in New Zealand and gain valuable first-hand experience will boost the workforce pipeline. That said, we cannot take our focus off supporting our homegrown workforce. New Zealand needs to attract and retain 300 general practice registrars per year just to maintain GP numbers and investment in the training programme is critical to this.
    “Investment in strong, future focused and sustainable primary care will reduce the pressure on secondary care. We look forward to further engagement with Minister Brown on lasting solutions that increase access to specialist general practitioners for New Zealanders and thank him for the steps he has announced.
    “The College is pleased to see our ongoing advocacy has been reflected in the Minister’s decisions and we look forward to learning the specifics of this additional funding.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Fewer houses, consents down under National

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The number of building consents issued under this Government continues to spiral, taking a toll on the infrastructure sector, tradies, and future generations of Kiwi homeowners.

    “The latest figures from Stats NZ confirm what the construction sector has been warning for months: building consents are down under the National Government. The slowdown is yet another sign that the Government’s economic mismanagement is making things worse for Kiwi households and businesses,” Labour infrastructure spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

    “The economy remains weak thanks to the government’s cancellation of infrastructure projects, leaving 13,000 construction workers out of a job last year. Every scrapped project means fewer jobs and fewer homes, resulting in rising unemployment, rising homelessness, and the sharpest recession, excluding COVID-19, in 30 years.

    “If the Government was serious about economic growth, it would reverse its cuts and invest in public services, infrastructure, and new homes, not axing funding for schools, hospitals, and public housing,” Barbara Edmonds said.

    In the year ended January 2025, consents fell to 33,812 new homes, down 7.2 percent compared with the year ended January 2024.

    “New homes are getting further from reach thanks to the reckless cuts of this Government. It’s not only public housing that’s been ditched – new privately owned family homes aren’t getting built either. Any promises of homes from Chris Bishop are down the gurgler,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

    “On top of that, National’s $2.9 billion landlord tax cuts have made things worse. Labour kept interest deductibility for new builds to encourage investment in more housing, but National scrapped that, shifting investment away from new builds and back into existing homes. That means fewer houses being built and house prices likely to increase.

    “It’s simple: build more public houses so people have somewhere to live. Don’t make living so expensive that people can’t build homes. Housing is the bare minimum that people need to live and it also helps grow the economy by getting more Kiwis into work,” Kieran McAnulty said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – National Freight Survey is Live!

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    March is a big month for the road freight industry with the largest survey in a decade being held to find out what are the key issues for transport operators and all the industry players.
    The 2025 National Road Freight Survey has been organised by national road freight organisation Transporting New Zealand.
    CEO Dom Kalasih says the online survey, which is being run by independent surveying firm Research New Zealand, is designed to help all parts of the industry share their priorities with policy makers and regulators.
    “There are over 30,000 people working in the road freight sector across more than 5,000 business entities, carrying 93 percent of the national freight task,” Kalasih says.
    “We want to get a clearer picture of what their leading concerns are, what opportunities they see for improvement, and what might be lesser priorities.”
    “There are plenty of big issues in the industry such as staff shortages, operating conditions, tolling and congestion charging, the Cook Strait ferries and road policing to name a few.”
    “If it is important to the people in the industry, we want to hear about it.”
    Some of the other groups supporting the survey are the New Zealand Heavy Haulage Association and Groundspread NZ.
    Jonathan Bhana-Thomson, the CEO of Heavy Haulage, says it is a great initiative for the industry and he’s sure the industry will provide plenty of great responses.
    The survey is to get feedback from transport companies, no matter their size, or whether they are member of an industry association or not.
    Rose Hyslop, the Executive Officer for Groundspread NZ, is also right behind the survey. She is looking forward to seeing the results which will be shared with all the groups that make up the transport and freight sectors.
    Kalasih says that Research NZ has kept the survey short, multi-choice and accessible, with the option to provide more in-depth answers if they have more detailed feedback.
    “We’ve also thrown in a $500 travel voucher from the House of Travel for one lucky person to win. Just as a bit of a sweetener.”
    The survey runs till March 28.
    The survey is at:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government News – Chief Ombudsman releases report into secure aged care facilities

    Source: Office of the Ombudsman

    The Chief Ombudsman Peter Boshier is concerned that people can be placed in secure aged care facilities in New Zealand without the proper legal authority.
    Mr Boshier has today released a report on his inspections and visits to 148 secure residential aged care facilities across the country from 2021-2024.
    “The COVID-19 pandemic saw many restrictions imposed in these types of facilities. As part of my regular visiting programme I wanted to check whether these restrictions had been lifted or at least minimised. I am pleased to say that most of the restrictions I saw during the pandemic had been lifted.
    “I also identified some areas that need to be addressed, including the lack of independent and centralised oversight around the legal basis for a person’s placement in secure care.
    “In the vast majority of facilities I found that at least one resident didn’t have a legal basis for being placed there and at a small number of facilities, almost half of the residents didn’t have the proper paperwork.
    “I have observed varying levels of understanding on the part of facility management, medical professionals, and whānau around what is legally required and why it is required for someone to be placed in a secure aged care facility.
    “I consider there would be significant benefit in establishing a centralised register for Enduring Power of Attorney to help with these issues.”
    Mr Boshier says a number of other improvements could be made including in the area of restraint.
    “It alarmed me to find that restraint policies were not always followed.
    “Restraint comes in many forms, including staff using their own body to limit residents’ movement, using equipment to limit residents’ movement, and locking doors to prevent free movement between different areas.
    “Residents receiving psychogeriatric care are at increased risk of being subjected to excessive restrictions or restraint.
    “In many instances it was clear that staff did not fully understand how certain actions result in residents being restrained, for example, restraint applies to residents who are left in recliner chairs with their legs elevated, where they are clearly unable to move from that position.”
    Mr Boshier also identified issues around the treatment of residents with dementia.
    “I was very concerned that a small minority of facility staff and management felt that because residents had dementia they were not capable of making complaints.
    “Residents are the experts on their experience of care. All residents have the right to share their opinions and be heard. They need ways to let someone know if they feel unsafe or they are dissatisfied with their care.”
    Other issues Mr Boshier found were an over-reliance on whānau to provide advocacy and support for residents, resourcing pressures across most facilities and staff who were close to burnout.
    “I am pleased, however, to see a range of improvements have been made by a number of the facilities I visited. These are still happening and I encourage all facilities to continue making improvements. I wish to acknowledge the commitment shown by staff I met and observed to delivering the best treatment and conditions to people living in secure aged care facilities.
    “It is vital that the human rights of all residents in our country’s secure aged care facilities are safeguarded and maintained.”
    Explanatory note: The Chief Ombudsman examines the conditions and treatment of people in places where they may not be free to leave at will. This includes people who may be in secure dementia level care and specialised hospital level care (psychogeriatric level care).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – SAFE calls for halt on fish farm developments and urgent industry review

    Source: SAFE For Animals

    SAFE is condemning the Government’s $11.72 million investment into salmon farming and demanding an urgent review into endemic animal welfare breaches.
    SAFE Campaign Manager Emily Hall says the funding allocated via the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is a concerning misdirection of Government resources.
    “Fish farms are quite simply under water factory farms, and this is an unregulated industry with no meaningful oversight of animal welfare.”
    SAFE also warns that intensive fish farming poses serious environmental risks including declining water quality and antibiotic pollution, making this use of Government sustainability funding profoundly misguided.
    “Rather than channelling money from the Sustainable Food and Fibres Futures fund
    into the expansion of salmon farming, this funding should be directed to initiatives with genuine sustainability outcomes.”
    SAFE says all fishes confined to cages on land or at sea are prevented from exhibiting their normal patterns of behaviour, directly breaching their legal rights under the Animal Welfare Act, adding the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) is well overdue in producing a code of welfare for farmed fishes.
    “Codes of welfare are ratified guidelines which all animal-related industries are expected to abide by, however a code to ensure the fish farming industry operates in line with our Animal Welfare Act has not yet transpired” says Hall.
    SAFE says this week’s funding announcement also highlights a significant conflict of interest, with MPI being responsible for both the growth of intensive farming industries and animal welfare compliance.
    “The fishes bred in these underwater cages subject to terrible conditions, including overcrowding, poor water quality, skeletal deformities, skin lesions, and heat stress.”
    “It is deeply concerning to see MPI dishing out funding to an industry rife with animal welfare concerns, given they are responsible for monitoring the welfare of farmed animals.”
    SAFE is calling for an immediate halt on all fish farm expansion until the Government has conducted a thorough review of what is currently an unregulated industry.
    “Without urgent action, fishes will continue to suffer in tragic conditions with no meaningful protection. The Government must step up and fix this” says Hall.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua Grand Traverse hits milestone

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Michael Jacques is far too busy to think about popping champagne to mark a significant birthday for one of the region’s most popular multisport events.
    When first run in 2006, Porirua Grand Traverse (PGT) had 240 participants testing themselves over, in and around Porirua’s hills, forests, coastlines and waterways. By 2020 the numbers had swelled to more than 1000.
    Twenty years after its first iteration, PGT has gone from being a major challenge for serious multisporters to a true festival of fitness and a major community occasion, says current event manager Michael Jacques.
    “Porirua Grand Traverse was founded by a group of people who thought the city’s awesome outdoor resources would be a perfect way to showcase the region and encourage locals to explore their back yard,” he says.
    “With the fun run, the fun bike, multisport and duathlon races, mountain biking and mountain running, it caters for everyone and we’ve been lucky to enjoy plenty of local support – from Porirua City Council to local volunteer groups, sponsors and families.
    “Our motto is ‘all ages, all abilities, all amazing’ – we want PGT to be one of the most inclusive endurance events in the country.”
    Local Deb Lynch, a three-time PGT winner, recently took out the iconic Coast to Coast event in the South Island for the first time. Michael proudly says Olympic and world champions have also regularly taken part in Porirua’s big day.
    Based at Whitireia Polytechnic, Michael says about 120 volunteers are needed to make PGT run smoothly on the day. Over 20 years, the amazing people who have helped make it so successful is a “staggering” number, with total volunteers numbering well over 1000, he says.
    The trust that organises PGT might enjoy a celebratory drink post-race, but for now there’s too much to do before this year’s big day, Sunday 6 April, Michael says.
    “Anniversary years are always popular and right now we’re tracking well ahead of previous events.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Porirua celebrating 60 years as a city

    Source: Porirua City Council

    Porirua city is turning 60 this year. We officially became a city on Saturday 2 October 1965 when our population hit 20,000, meeting the threshold (at the time) to become a city.
    Today Porirua is home to more than 62,000 people and our city is growing and changing all the time.
    It is a vibrant, diverse and welcoming place that is expected to grow to be home to more than 83,000 people by 2054, with an extra 10,000 homes needed.
    Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says it’s a privilege to represent Porirua during this milestone year.
    “While Porirua has a long and rich history, the period we have been a city is relatively short. Porirua became a borough in 1961 and a city four years later in 1965.
    “I was born in Porirua and have lived all but 10 years here. For me, it’s where I live and work and is a place I am proud to call my home.
    “A 60th celebration is usually called a diamond anniversary but for me Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour is the jewel in our crown. We haven’t always looked after it as well as we could or should, but the recent signing of Te Wai Ora o Parirua – the Porirua Harbour Accord shows a shared commitment to restoring the special taonga, which our city is centred around,” she says.
    We will be marking our city’s actual birthday more formally nearer to the date. In the lead-up to our 60th birthday we’re spotlighting photos of notable events and places in Porirua’s recent history in a #60for60 campaign.
    You can see the photos – which are published at least weekly – on our Facebook page or check out our dedicated web page, which gets updated as the photos get published: poriruacity.govt.nz/60for60

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Home consents up in the month of January 2025 – Stats NZ media and information release: Building consents issued: January 2025

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Home consents up in the month of January 2025 – 4 March 2025 – There were 2,203 new homes consented in January 2025, up 11 percent compared with January 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “While January 2025 saw an increase in homes consented compared to January 2024, it still remains below the levels seen in January 2022 and 2023,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

    Of the 2,203 new homes consented, there were 1,077 stand-alone houses consented, up 20 percent compared with January 2024, and 1,126 multi-unit homes consented, up 3.1 percent.

    Multi-unit homes include townhouses, apartments, retirement village units, and flats.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Promoting Pacific languages in New Zealand

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti says the Pacific language week series continues to celebrate our diverse Pacific languages, with exciting updates for 2025 and 2026, including the first-ever addition of Bislama, the national language of Vanuatu. 

    “Last year, the Pacific language week series saw an incredible response, with thousands of New Zealanders participating in events and activities,” says Dr Reti. 

    “From cultural performances and storytelling sessions to engaging social media campaigns viewed over 3 million times, the celebrations highlighted the powerful role language plays in connecting and inspiring communities.

    “I have heard firsthand how important the language week series is to Pacific communities and how it affirms the relationships we have with Pacific island nations. 

    “Each community embraces their Pacific language week in unique ways. As they say in Bislama, wan toktok hem i neva enaf – one language is never enough. We’re excited to celebrate Bislama for the first time in 2025, bringing the total number of language weeks to 12 this year.

    “I am also pleased to confirm the dates for 2025 and 2026 ahead of time, to reinforce our commitment to preserving these cultural treasures for future generations,” Dr Reti says. 

    The Ministry for Pacific Peoples invites all New Zealanders to embrace the Pacific language week series. Learning materials, online challenges, and tutorials will be available throughout the year, alongside events fostering cultural connection and understanding. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Feedback sought on naming policy – Porirua City

    Source: Porirua City Council
    Names are important – they represent who we are as a city, and reflect our cultures, our histories and our connections to the environment around us and to each other.
    Porirua City is updating its Naming Policy to replace the Street and Road Naming Policy and Process that was introduced in 2006, and we want to hear what residents think.
    The policy will cover how new streets, facilities, parks and reserves in Porirua will be named.
    “It’s important that we get feedback from our community on this updated policy and partner with Ngāti Toa to ensure any new streets, parks or Council facilities built in Porirua are named in a way that reflect this city’s diverse cultures, identities and shared history,” says Porirua Mayor Anita Baker.
    “The policy isn’t about renaming existing streets or places, it’s setting out themes for new names as the city grows.”
    The three suggested naming principles include celebrating names of significance to Porirua’s communities.
    Council is also seeking feedback on including historical people or events and noteworthy members of the community to its new policy. These are people or events who might have had an association with a specific part of Porirua or the whole city.
    Another suggested principle is the names of significant geographical features, landscapes, and flora and fauna associated with different parts of Porirua.
    Some of these principles are included in the existing policy for certain Porirua suburbs.
    Council’s partnership with Ngāti Toa means the iwi can suggest and/or endorse names for the city that honour local Māori history and connections to the whenua/land.
    The 11-question survey is currently live on Porirua City’s consultation page and will close at 5pm on Tuesday 11 March.
    To find out more or have your say, visit poriruacity.govt.nz/consultation .
    To view the existing policy, please visit poriruacity.govt.nz/policies .

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Strengthening Trust and Confidence in New Zealand’s Insurance Industry – RBNZ

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    4 March 2025 – Deputy Governor Christian Hawkesby has reinforced the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s commitment to ensuring a resilient, efficient, innovative and transparent insurance sector, speaking at the Insurance Council of New Zealand’s conference today.

    “The insurance industry is not just a key pillar of our financial system; it is fundamental to our society by enabling risk to be spread, transferred and shared. Its success relies on trust and confidence that comes with transparency, ensuring that consumers have the right coverage and that insurers can meet their obligations when needed,” Mr Hawkesby said.

    New Zealand’s insurance landscape presents distinct challenges, with its complex composition of participants – retail and wholesale players, foreign parents, global reinsurers, government providers – and New Zealand’s unique risks – seismic activity, volcanic threats, and the increasing impact of climate change.

    Meeting these challenges also requires a stable and sound financial system, underpinned by a modern and fit for purpose regulatory regime. The review of the Insurance Prudential Supervision Act (IPSA) is aimed at bringing about this modernisation.

    It also requires all participants to take a system view and the necessity for a collaborative approach and leadership from across the industry. The CoFR[1] insurance forum is an opportunity to support this leadership and for regulators to share and collaborate with the industry.

    The Reserve Bank remains dedicated to enhancing engagement with the industry, modernising its regulatory framework and approach, and embedding deeper insurance expertise within its leadership.

    “We recognise that there is more work to do. However, our commitment to working collaboratively with industry leaders ensures that the insurance sector continues to play a vital role in a productive and sustainable economy,” Mr Hawkesby said.

    More information

    read the release : https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=f31a61e71d&e=f3c68946f8

    ________________________________
    [1] The Council of Financial Regulators (CoFR), includes the Financial Markets Authority, Treasury, Commerce Commission, and Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment,

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investing in natural disaster research partnerships

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government continues to invest in research which will deliver tangible benefits to New Zealanders, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti announced today. 

    Three New Zealand research teams have been granted funding to partner with Japanese research organisations on projects that aim to make New Zealand more prepared and resilient when natural disasters strike.

    “This Government is focused on putting funding where it will make the biggest difference. Natural disasters pose a significant risk in New Zealand – a good reminder of that is the recent elevation of alert levels at Whakaari White Island,” says Dr Reti. 

    “Collaboration with like-minded nations and sharing research infrastructure enables our researchers to lead and participate in world-class science, innovation and technology that benefits New Zealand. 

    “Building relationships with international partners is critical to developing a vibrant science and innovation sector, which is a core part of our plan to deliver economic growth.

    “New Zealand and Japan share similar risks when it comes to earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanic activity. By working together in these projects, we can better understand risks and potential mitigate options for future events. 

    “Working together with Japan also enables our researchers to access invaluable resources and experience such as their Marine Seismic Vessel Research Vessel Kaimei, proprietary modelling software, and access to structural laboratories. I look forward to seeing the outcomes of this research and the benefits it brings.” 

    The University of Canterbury will work with Tohoku University on a structural retrofitting system to enhance the resilience of buildings in seismic events while reducing the cost of traditional retrofitting with a new modular infill system. 

    GNS Science will work Japan’s National Research Institute for Earth Science and Disaster Resilience (NIED) on tolerable levels of ashfall following volcanic events. 

    GNS Science will also work with the Japan Agency for Marine Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) for a seismic study of the Hikurangi subduction zone – New Zealand’s largest threat for tsunamis. 

    The research teams will each receive $300,000 from the Government’s Catalyst Fund. Japanese research teams will receive equivalent funding from our Japanese partner – the Japan Science and Technology Agency.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Calls to ditch NCEA tests expose a deficit in school leadership

    Source: ACT Party

    Responding to principals calling for an end to new online NCEA tests due to low pass rates, ACT Education spokesperson Laura McClure says:

    “We’ve tested literacy and numeracy and discovered big problems. A normal response would be to look at how our schools are equipping kids with these basic skills. Instead, we’ve got principals wanting to hide from reality and ditch the tests that expose the problem.

    “What kind of leadership are kids getting when the message from their principals is, ‘this is too hard for you and we need to make the test easier‘?

    “As a country we cannot afford to lower expectations and create a workforce defined by mediocrity. We must aim higher and empower every student to reach their potential.

    “NCEA exists to offer real knowledge and skills, and set real standards – not to give qualifications to everyone. Testing against real standards makes the system accountable.

    “We need to lift our aspirations and ensure school leavers have basic competencies – such as being able to understand the employment contracts they’re signing.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The greatest threat in the workplace could be sitting next to you

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    By Michael Webster, Privacy Commissioner

    Originally published on the New Zealand Herald 3 October 2024. One of the greatest risks to privacy in the workplace could be sitting next to you – or it could even be you. Employee browsing or the unauthorised access and misuse of personal information is one of the most common privacy breaches. I also believe its one of the least understood or reported on, as required by the Privacy Act. New Zealand is a small place and theres a good chance a familiar name will crop up in a database or on a file at work and it can prove very tempting to have a look. However, a sneaky peek isnt a harmless case of nosiness; its inappropriate and can be a breach of the principles underpinning the Privacy Act.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy News – February 2025

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    The February 2025 issue of Privacy News includes a reminder about giving feedback on the Biometrics Code, a piece about the Public Services Commission and Stats NZ reports, how to apply to speak in Privacy Week 2025, and new guidance for tenants and landlords on our website. You can also read about the EU Guidelines and task force on AI, and a note about privacy. org. nz being updated. Read the February 2025 issue.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Upgrade to tourist experience on Stewart Island

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Upgraded tourism ventures on Rakiura Stewart Island promise a world-class experience for visitors, with enhanced guided nature walks and improved facilities, says Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson. 
    Mr Patterson is on Stewart Island today, joining locals to celebrate the completion of the Rakiura Oneke Southern Wilderness Experience.
    “The realisation of this project on Stewart Island is monumental. The people here have been holding this project in their hearts for many years, and it’s incredible to see the work finally completed. It’s a testament to the dedication this close-knit community has to their home,” says Mr Patterson.
    Rakiura Māori Lands Trust (RMLT) was approved for grant and loan funding from the Provincial Growth Fund, totalling $2.18 million in 2020, to support the development of tourism infrastructure. The Trust provided funding to upgrade conservation efforts at Oneke (also known as ‘The Neck’), a remote area on Stewart Island that hosts an abundance of native wildlife and incredible coastal landscapes. 
    “Thanks to the new walking track at Oneke, visitors can take guided walks to discover the area’s early history and natural wonders. There’s also a new wharf, whare and shelter facilities. This infrastructure will support tourism on Oneke well into the future.
    “Stewart Island has long been a habitat for native flora and fauna, and restoring the biodiversity of the land back to its natural state has been a priority for RMLT for many years. The new developments contribute to the continued work being done to restore the biodiversity at Oneke, with upgraded predator-proof fencing and biosecurity measures,” says Mr Patterson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police seek information and footage to SH6 fatality, Gibbston

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    An investigation has been launched into the death of a man on State Highway 6 after he was struck by a vehicle last night.

    Emergency services were called to the scene near Kawerau Bridge Historic Reserve at around 10pm.

    Sadly, the man was located deceased at the scene.

    Work is now underway to understand what has occurred, as well as to formally identify the victim.

    Police would like to speak with anyone who might have witnessed the incident.

    We’d also like to hear from anyone who may have seen a man wearing black pants and a black shirt, walking on SH6 near the area before 10pm, or anyone who has captured dashcam footage from the incident or surrounding times.

    If you have any information that may assist Police in our investigation, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    Please use the reference number 250304/8199.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech and innovation boost for Marlborough

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A major boost to regional innovation opens in Blenheim today, supported by a $578,000 grant from the Government’s Regional Strategic Partnership Fund (RSPF), Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson says.
    “The completion of Te Au Pūngao – Tech & Innovation Hub is a key regional development milestone which will provide opportunities for start-ups and existing agri-businesses, tech innovators, researchers, investors, and support agencies – they will have a place to connect and collaborate in shared workspaces, and hold start-up events, networking sessions, seminars and workshops” Mr Patterson says.
    The 500 sq metre hub in central Blenheim received $635,000 in co-funding from the Marlborough District Council. The facilities include co-working space of up to 28 hot desks, meeting rooms, video conferencing facilities and a prototyping room.
    “Marlborough is home to some of New Zealand’s most innovative minds and pioneering sectors, especially in viticulture and aquaculture,” Mr Patterson says.
    “As these industries transform to adopt AI, robotics and advanced technologies, the region is attracting more agritech and marine tech innovators who work in these spaces. 
    “The hub is crucial in supporting these sectors by providing a space where local businesses can develop solutions and realise the ever-evolving opportunities that Marlborough and New Zealand’s agribusiness sector has to offer.
    “I see strong alignment between the Government’s ‘Going for Growth’ economic plan and Te Au Pūngao – Tech & Innovation Hub, particularly through investment in the innovation, science and technology space. I look forward to seeing this new regional asset delivering high value innovation, economic growth, and well-paid jobs to Marlborough,” Mr Patterson says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Every Bite’s deep work shifts behaviour on food waste

    Source: Zero Waste Network Aotearoa

    Every Bite has released its first annual report outlining in-depth its work, methods and outcomes in preventing food waste. What emerges are good news stories about how communities and individuals are connecting with each other and learning how to address Aotearoa NZ’s serious food waste problem.

    “A lot of us tend to underestimate how much food we actually waste, and there is a lack of public awareness of how our behaviours impact food systems and lead to environmental degradation. Whilst most people declare that wasting food feels wrong, the complexity of our food systems combined with busy lives make it challenging to see how much food we do waste and build new habits to address this,”  says Every Bite’s project manager Rachel Glaiser.

    “This is why Every Bite was developed: to build a community of people making small but practical changes that over time will see a big impact. It is a model based on the zero waste hierarchy that prioritises preventing food waste in the first place rather than reducing it once it is created.”

    The project aims to help New Zealanders make simple changes at home to waste less food.

    “The Every Bite programme runs over four weeks and can be done in person or online, making it flexible for busy households. Among other things, participants receive a toolkit to experiment with ways to prevent food waste in their homes.  The programme kick-off event brings people together and includes tips, tricks and hacks from zero waste chefs and others who have lots of experience in tackling their food waste.

    “We all need inspiration, knowledge, practical tools and support so we can try new things at home to see what works for us.  We are constantly learning how to build new habits and stay motivated to keep going on this journey.  These learnings, together with staying across the latest research in behaviour change and food waste, are helping us to continue to improve the programme for our communities.”

    “Every Bite’s first year involved four Hub partners who delivered the programme: Wastebusters (Wānaka), Sustainable Hawke’s Bay (Hastings), Environment Network Manawatū (Palmerston North), and Go Eco (Hamilton). These four Hubs brought experience, deep community connections and were strong collaborators.”

    “Every Bite is excited to now move into years two and three of the programme, where it will reach new communities, welcome new Hubs, and deliver real impact to prevent food waste in Aotearoa.”

    Notes:

    Every Bite has been developed as part of the Ministry for the Environment’s ‘National Food Waste Reduction Programme’ that aims to deliver large-scale, national-level behaviour change programmes that reduce food waste and emissions.

    The full report can be found here: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/6604ab9f601bc406c87b5ce7/t/67637e74ea92c508a72b7afa/1734573749062/Every+Bite+Year+1+Report.pdf

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Woman charged over child’s death

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A woman has been charged with manslaughter after a young girl died when she was struck by a vehicle in Hawke’s Bay earlier this year.

    About 5.30pm on 25 January, Police were called to Chatham Road, Lochain, after a crash involving a car and a pedestrian.

    The pedestrian, an 11-year-old girl, died at the scene.

    An investigation has been carried out and in relation to the matter, a 34-year-old woman has now been charged with a number of offences, including manslaughter.

    She is due to appear in Hastings District Court about 11.45am today, 4 March.

    Other charges include breath alcohol level over 400, dangerous driving, and failing to stop to ascertain injury.

    As the matter is now before the courts, Police are limited in what further comment can be provided.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Driver charged over crash that killed passengers

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have charged a 20-year-old driver for allegedly causing the deaths of two of his passengers in January.

    The crash on Butchers Road, Clarkville, on 11 January, killed a 20-year-old man and a 17-year-old woman, both of whom were in a vehicle being driven by the accused.

    The car they were travelling in hit a concrete power pole with such force, the vehicle split in half. Both the victims were located deceased at the scene, while the driver sustained minor injuries.

    Following an investigation into the cause of the crash, Police arrested the 20-year-old North Canterbury man on 26 February and charged him with two counts of causing death while under the influence of drugs. Police allege the driver was under the influence of a drug to such an extent that he was incapable of having proper control of the vehicle.

    He is due to appear in the Christchurch District Court today, 4 March.

    As the case is before the court, Police are unable to comment further.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Caravan caper leads pair to court

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Two men have been arrested following a fleeing driver event involving a vehicle towing a caravan in Wellington.

    Shortly after 5am, Police were notified that a caravan had been stolen from outside a Khandallah address.

    Police were able to locate the vehicle and lay road spikes, however, the driver avoided the spikes and allegedly drove at the officer who laid them – fortunately the officer was not harmed.

    The vehicle, still towing the caravan, travelled south through Northland and down into Aro Valley.

    A brief pursuit was initiated before being abandoned.

    Due to the manner of driving, the caravan tipped on its side at one point, but the vehicle continued.

    The caravan hit a number of objects, including parked vehicles, throughout the incident, and broke into pieces, with parts and items from within being scattered across the road.

    The driver then entered the motorway at the Terrace Tunnel, before exiting at Tinakori Road and crashing the vehicle near Grant Road.

    Two occupants fled Police on foot, but were taken into custody by with the assistance of a Police dog handler around 5:30am.

    A 25-year-old and a 31-year-old man have been arrested and charged with various offences relating to the theft and driving matters. They are due in Wellington District Court today.

    Anyone who has this morning discovered they are the victim of damage to either cars or property in these areas this morning, who has not yet reported it to Police, is asked to please do so.

    You can report matters via 105, either by phone or online at Update Report | New Zealand Police quoting job number 250304/8364.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police respond to IPCA findings on death in custody

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police acknowledge the findings by the Independent Policy Conduct Authority in relation to the death of an Auckland man in June 2021.

    The 43-year-old man was admitted into Auckland Hospital on 11 June with abdominal pain and shortness of breath. Hospital staff located a concealed package in his clothing and alerted Police who attended and found it contained over 24 grams of methamphetamine.

    The following day medical staff discharged the man into police custody, and he was taken to the Auckland Custody Unit until his appearance in Court the following day on a charge of possessing methamphetamine.

    He was arrested by Police that evening and CCTV shows the man is walking unaided, compliant and co-operative. In the custody unit he was talking with officers and placed into a cell at about 6:30pm and put on 2-hourly checks.

    Police staff had an overview of why he had been in hospital and that he was likely under the influence of illegal substances. However, they believed his health was in a stable condition given he had just been discharged by a medical professional into Police custody.

    Officers checked on the man through the night and spoke with him just before 9pm. Shortly after midnight, they found the man unresponsive. An ambulance was called and police staff commenced CPR. He was taken to Auckland Hospital where he died a short time a later.

    The IPCA found Police officers should have conducted more frequent checks on the man, recognised he was deteriorating and provided quicker medical assistance when they realised he was unresponsive.

    They do note that expert medical opinion indicates the man’s death may have been unavoidable, regardless of where he was.

    WorkSafe filed a charge against New Zealand Police relating to this death but withdrew it in August of last year.

    Relieving Auckland City District Commander Inspector Grae Anderson says Police are responsible for more than 120,000 people who come in our custody units across New Zealand each year in an often challenging and complex environment:

    “Police have a duty of care to those who come into our custody, and we acknowledge there were learnings from this incident.

    “As a direct result of what occurred, police have updated training to staff, and now ensure that we give stronger weighting to recent hospital admissions when assessing the level of care required for a detainee in similar circumstances.”

    Police remain committed to continuous improvement in our custody units and have implemented a raft of significant changes over the last few years.

    “Including the creation of a National Custody Team (NCT) which provides national oversight of the policy, practice, and training for all Police staff,” says Inspector Anderson.

    “Police continues to work with all relevant stakeholders including WorkSafe, and the IPCA to look for opportunities to constantly improve our approach to the custody of people detained by Police.”

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mental health peer support extends to Wellington Hospital ED

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today officially marked the start of a new peer support service at Wellington Hospital Emergency Department, an initiative that will help people to have faster access to mental health support.

    “The peer support specialists are workers with lived experience who are available talk to people who are presenting to the ED in mental distress, they provide comfort, as well as help connect people with the needed community services,” Mr Doocey says.

    “I have been heartened to hear that early feedback is showing that peer support specialists are already proving to be beneficial for people presenting to emergency departments in mental distress.

    “Mental health is about lived experience. Peer support specialists have the ability to offer others hope and show that there is a pathway forward. These are workers that have been trained on how to adequately support others going through similar experiences.

    “I’m very pleased that this service is now being rolled out to Wellington ED. The hospital services a large community across the region, and ensuring we have peer support specialists available will mean extra support for people and their families.

    Wellington ED is the most recent hospital to provide the service with Auckland Hospital and Middlemore hospital already rolled out. The service will be extended to Christchurch and Waikato EDs in the coming months and three further locations will be announced soon.

    “One of the biggest barriers to support is the workforce, that is why we are focused on growing the mental health and addiction workforce so people can access timely mental health support when and where they need it.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ChildFund – Urgent Support for Ukrainian Children in 2025

    Source: ChildFund New Zealand

    Uncertainty about the next stage in the war in Ukraine is putting increased pressure on Ukrainian children who have already put up with three years of war.
    “Our ChildFund partners based all through Ukraine and in Moldova are continuing the roll out of our 2025 programme of support. No matter what the outcome of negotiations, it is clear this war will not end any time soon. The support must continue,” says Josie Pagani CEO of ChildFund New Zealand.
    12.7 million people, including 2 million children, are in need of urgent humanitarian support now.
    Children are the most affected. The impact of the war on children’s emotional and psychological well-being and their motivation to learn has contributed to a decline in learning, while psychological distress has contributed to non-attendance.
    In 2025 we plan to do the following:
    • Provide more child and adolescent friendly spaces to help children cope with war-related losses and trauma
    • Provide mental health and psychological support to displaced people and local communities, with a particular focus on women and children
    • Run awareness campaigns on the dangers of mines and explosive remnants of war, as well as strategies and techniques to avoid accidents
    • Build bomb shelters to ensure the safety of students and school staff in education facilities
    • Distribute winter emergency aid, including solid fuel, and clean water
    • Provide cash-for-shelter repairs, to fix damaged homes
    • Provide hygiene kits to young people and their families
    • Rehabilitate heating systems, water supply and waste-water systems in healthcare facilities.
    “In the last three years our ChildFund partners have reached 502,264 beneficiaries, including 204,396 women and girls, and 97,340 children.
    The plan in 2025 is to reach about 80,000 additional beneficiaries, including 32,000 children. It is clear the war will not end tomorrow. The bombs are still dropping, and Ukrainian children need our support.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Heritage and History – Rēkohu Wharekauri Chatham Island waka excavation uncovers clues to our voyaging past

    Source: Ministry for Culture and Heritage

    The limited excavation of the partial remains of a waka found on Rēkohu Wharekauri Chatham Island has finished.
    “The site has now been covered and secured by the archaeological team and neighbouring landowner,” said Glenis Philip-Barbara, Pou Mataaho o Te Hononga Deputy Secretary Māori Crown Partnerships, Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
    “Over the past month, the team has worked tirelessly to recover the visible pieces of the waka that remained in situ. More than 450 waka pieces and other items of interest have been retrieved. These items are now being stored securely under interim conservation measures (temporarily wrapped or submerged in tanks in secure storage) while more detailed conservation plans are developed.
    “We understand from the archaeologist and conservator that braided fibre lashed to timber and other textile fibres have been uncovered and that such finds are incredibly rare. They will be particularly valuable in helping experts to understand when this waka was built – or at least when the fibres were added.” Glenis Philip-Barbara said.
    “The Ministry will continue to be guided by imi and iwi to ensure that the waka is protected for the benefit of future generations. Their input and consensus is crucial and we look forward to building upon these relationships.”
    “The local community were instrumental in leading the on-island support during the excavation. Community interns and volunteers travelled across the island to the site, providing precious cultural advice, supplying meals and taking up the opportunity to add new skills to their impressive resumes,” Glenis Philip-Barbara.
    “The neighbouring landowner provided the team with uninterrupted site access and invaluable logistical support, as well as readily hosting Te One and Kaingaroa schools and an open day for locals.
    “The Ministry’s role has been to follow statutory processes under the Protected Objects Act. We are grateful for the support from Hokotehi Moriori Trust, Ngāti Mutunga ki Wharekauri, Moriori Imi Settlement Trust, Pouhere Taonga Heritage New Zealand, the Department of Conservation and other stakeholders. By working together, the story of this important miheke/taonga has the best chance of being uncovered.
    “An interim report will now be prepared by the archaeologist and conservator. It is still too early to speculate about the provenance of the waka, however, those 450 waka pieces will provide important clues.
    “The public notice on the Ministry’s website gives any interested parties 60 working days to register their claim for ownership of the waka as taonga tūturu under the Protected Objects Act 1975. This notice expires on 7 April 2025,” Glenis Philip-Barbara said. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Science – Seafloor of New Zealand’s most important fishing grounds shows resilience – NIWA

    Source: NIWA

    Sea life in the seafloor of New Zealand’s most productive and important commercial fishing ground shows resilience to disturbance, according to a new study published in the New Zealand Journal of Marine and Freshwater Research.
    The research found that some aspects of seafloor ecosystems on the Chatham Rise showed an ability to recover relatively quickly from physical disturbances, such as those caused by seafloor mining and trawling.
    The research suggests that the seafloor ecosystem of the Chatham Rise may be more resilient to disturbances than previously thought, says NIWA marine ecologist Dr Rachel Hale, lead author for the study. “This resilience may be due to the region’s history of natural and human disturbances, which has led to the dominance of opportunistic species. While our results are encouraging, it’s important to note that there were some post-disturbance changes in the environmental characteristics that were measured. These changes, particularly in the composition of seafloor communities, may have longer-term repercussions for ecosystem processes.”
    Researchers disturbed an area of seafloor on the Chatham Rise and monitored the impacts on sediment, seafloor-dwelling aquatic animals, and took measurements of oxygen and nutrient fluxes, and bacterial abundance. They found disturbance changed the sediment composition, reducing food quality, and initially reducing the diversity of seafloor-dwelling aquatic life, though after a year some of the aquatic life had bounced back. Contrary to expectation, the disturbance didn’t result in significant changes to the nutrient levels, and the rapid recolonization of the seabed saw bacteria levels recover.
    The study revealed the resilience of the sea floor to disturbance, but also highlights potential long-term changes that need more investigation, says Dr Hale. “Expansion of extractive industries to deep-sea environments will lead to increased stresses on seafloor ecosystems. Further long-term studies are required to fully understand the potential impacts of disturbance on sediment processes, nutrient cycling, and the overall health of the Chatham Rise ecosystem.”
    The Chatham Rise is a large area of ocean floor around 1,400km east of New Zealand which stretches some 1,000 km long. The underwater plateau, accessible to trawling, provides about 60% of New Zealand’s fish catch, including hoki, hake, ling, warehou, squid, orange roughy and deep-sea dory. Data from research has enriched models and enabled long-term monitoring, with NIWA undertaking surveys since 1992 on fisheries and ecosystems.
    The research was a NIWA collaboration with Victoria University of Wellington and Waikato University.
    This research was undertaken as part of the Resilience of benthic communities to the effects of sedimentation (ROBES) programme funded by the New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (contract CO1X1614).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drug Detection – TDDA Adds Tramadol and Fentanyl Testing Amid Rising Workplace Detections

    Source: Botica Butler Raudon Partners

    AUCKLAND – 3 March 2025 – The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA), New Zealand’s largest workplace drug testing provider, is announcing new drug testing capabilities for New Zealand workplaces.

    Beginning in March, TDDA will make it easier for New Zealand workplaces to screen for tramadol and fentanyl, two high-risk opioids that pose significant safety concerns in workplaces worldwide. This is the first time in New Zealand that these tests will be incorporated into enhanced oral fluid and urine screening devices instead of needing independent testing strips or other costly devices.

    This industry-leading innovation expands TDDA’s screening panel from seven to nine drug types without any additional cost. The updated devices, independently verified by an AS/NZS 4760:2019 & AS/NZS 4308:2008 accredited laboratory, will help businesses proactively mitigate risks associated with these potent, and widely abused, substances.

    A rise in opioid detections

    Globally, the use of opioids like tramadol and fentanyl poses a serious safety risk and New Zealand is now seeing an uptick in workplace detections. The 2024 New Zealand Drugs Trends Survey found that 27 percent of respondents reported non-medical use of pharmaceuticals in the previous six months.

    While the opioid issue was shown affects all regions, the survey found that non-medical use of prescription opioids was highest in Southland and West Coast, signaling that employers may need to take action.

    Additionally, TDDA’s latest Imperans Report highlighted that during October – December 2024, opioid use in workplaces in New Zealand accounted for 12.1 percent of positive workplace drug tests, up from 11.9 percent in the same quarter of 2023.

    “Any increase in detection rates represents a significant workplace threat, regardless of opioids being used while legally prescribed or in a non-medical setting. The emerging trend of abusing pharmaceuticals like tramadol and fentanyl is what keeps me up at night,” says Glenn Dobson, CEO, TDDA.

    “Until now, New Zealand largely avoided the opioid epidemic seen overseas, but there are indicators now saying otherwise. Any rise in detection rates is worth examination. As a workplace risk, opioids are at the top. Legally prescribed or illegally procured, they can cause workplace accidents, long-term addiction and lead to the loss of life in more way than one.”

    TDDA’s 9-panel testing device rollout

    TDDA is reinforcing its commitment to workplace safety with the addition of tramadol and fentanyl to its screening capabilities. These newly introduced screening strips are part of TDDA’s ongoing innovation, ensuring businesses have access to the most advanced substance detection tools available. TDDA is helping workplaces mitigate health and safety risks by incorporating these substances into standard testing, and in doing so, helping businesses achieve workplace health and safety compliance.

    “TDDA follows and acts on global drug trends to provide cutting-edge solutions for workplace safety. As New Zealand faces evolving drug trends, including the rising threat of opioids, no industry or region is immune. We have been carefully tracking the issues that both tramadol and fentanyl have created globally and have developed these new screening devices to help our clients manage business risks,” says Dobson.

    “By integrating tramadol and fentanyl into our screening devices, we’re helping businesses stay ahead of the curve and protect their people. These will now become our standard devices, ensuring companies can take decisive action to protect their workforce.”

    To provide flexibility, TDDA has implemented an opt-in/opt-out process, allowing businesses to determine whether these new drug tests align with their workplace policies and risk assessments.

    TDDA recommends that businesses take a proactive approach to workplace safety by implementing comprehensive drug testing programmes, including pre-employment, reasonable cause, and random drug and alcohol testing. Every worker has a right to a safe environment, and business owners, managers, and supervisors have a legal duty to ensure they’ve created a drug and alcohol-free culture of safety.

    Failing to act not only risks legal consequences but can also erode workplace culture. As a leader in workplace drug detection, TDDA is committed to helping businesses stay ahead of these challenges, fostering safer and more productive workplaces.

    About The Drug Detection Agency
    The Drug Detection Agency (TDDA) is a leader in workplace substance testing with more than 300 staff, 90 mobile health clinics, 65 locations throughout Australasia, and processing more than 250,000 tests annually. TDDA was established in 2005 to provide New Zealand and Australian businesses with end-to-end workplace substance testing, education and policy services. TDDA holds ISO17025 accreditation for workplace substance testing in both AU and NZ. Refer to the IANZ and NATA websites for TDDA’s full accreditation details. Learn more about TDDA at https://tdda.com/.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –