NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Banking Sector – ASB half year result: Profit up 1% as economy moves toward recovery

    Source: ASB

    ASB has reported a cash net profit after tax (NPAT) of $716 million for the six months to 31 December 2024, an increase of 1% on the prior comparative period, as the economy moves towards recovery.  

    Statutory NPAT is $763 million, a 2% increase on the prior comparative period. The increase in profit reflects a 4% rise in operating income driven by increased lending volumes and favourable interest rate hedging, partially offset by an 8% rise in operating expenses. Home lending grew 5% and business and rural lending grew 2% on the prior comparative period. Margins across lending and deposits remained flat overall.

    Profitability, measured by return on equity, fell 0.6% on the prior comparative period. The increase in profit was more than offset by additional capital requirements, with the total capital ratio rising 80 basis points to 16.3%. During the period there was additional shareholder investment of $700 million, bringing total shareholder investment in ASB to $11.4 billion, supporting growth in New Zealand.

    Chief Executive Vittoria Shortt says ASB has supported its rural, personal and business customers through more than two years of extremely challenging economic conditions and is well positioned to continue backing them as the economy enters the early stages of recovery.

    “New Zealand has been through the most difficult economic cycle in a generation, and we need to be patient with what looks like a gradual recovery. With lower interest rates and inflation providing some relief, and export incomes looking up for a number of sectors, our focus remains on supporting customers and providing capital for the next phase of economic growth.”

    Opening doors for homeowners

    ASB has cut its one-year fixed home loan rate by a total of 1.65% and six-month rate by 1.35% since July 2024.

    “Falling interest rates bring very welcome relief for Kiwi borrowers, but we’re aware most are on fixed mortgages, and the benefit is yet to be felt by many households. Around 45% of our fixed home loan customers are expected to roll onto a lower rate by the end of June, and 70% by Christmas. Since April 2024, we’ve seen borrowers shift toward shorter terms, with close to half of our fixed mortgage customers choosing to fix for just six months.

    “ASB helped more than 23,000 customers build, refinance, buy or move house over the half year, including close to 5,500 first home buyers, with around 3,600 using their ASB KiwiSaver for deposits.

    “We’re backing the build of more warm, dry homes and making it easier for social housing providers to buy them. Since our Accelerated Housing Fund launched in November 2023, we’ve committed $165 million, supporting around 450 new homes for community, affordable and Māori housing.

    “We are continuing to develop new ways to enable Māori to secure lending for housing on Māori land, including supporting papakāinga shared living projects. Through our Accelerated Housing Fund, we’ve now committed $34 million for Māori-led housing developments.”

    Strengthening exports, innovation and New Zealand  

    “ASB provided more than $1 billion in lending to new business, rural and corporate customers over the half year, as we continue to back businesses to compete, scale and drive the growth that will underpin New Zealand’s economic recovery.

    “Our $30 million Clean Tech fund and $20 million ASB ACCESS food and fibre fund are accelerating exporters and innovators ready to grow, but lacking capital to do so. We’re partnering with these emerging business at an early stage, finding new ways to approach lending and unlock their potential. Our food and fibre capability within ASB is also expanding to better support this key sector.

    “Another area where ASB can make an impact on New Zealand’s future is supporting upgrades to infrastructure. We estimate $1 trillion in infrastructure investment is needed over the next 30 years, with energy one of the critical sectors requiring funding. Enabling investment in renewable energy will be an ongoing priority for us, as our research tells us we can help households, businesses and farmers to cut costs, reduce emissions and improve profitability,” says Vittoria.

    Customers also benefit from rate relief

    ASB has passed on Official Cash Rate cuts to more than 110,000 personal, business and rural customers holding variable loans. “The majority of our rural and business customers float some of their lending, so rate relief flows through quickly,” says Vittoria.

    “Farmers have been under pressure in recent years, with depressed commodity prices and increased on farm costs, but conditions are improving for some rural sectors, particularly dairy.

    “We expect dairy revenues to be around $5 billion higher for the 2024/2025 season compared with the season prior through a lift in milk price and production. Beef prices are also up year on year due to tight supply and the lower New Zealand dollar.

    “Our dedicated rural team made 5,000 farm visits this half year to understand the issues and opportunities customers are seeing and to help grow their businesses for the future.”

    Further $140 million to fight fraud, scams and financial crime

    “We are continuing to invest heavily in people, technology and awareness initiatives to protect Kiwi against fraud, scams, and cyber and financial crime and expect to spend another $140 million this financial year.”

    While the volume of online banking fraud and scam cases increased 16%, customer losses were down a third in the year to December 2024. ASB stopped $29 million in suspicious card transactions in 2024 and responded to 18,000 after-hours calls to its 0800 ASB FRAUD hotline in the first year of 24/7 operations. Across the half year ASB identified and took down around 100 fake ASB websites, to prevent further harm from bank impersonation, a significant source of scams and fraud.

    ASB worked with the banking industry to introduce Confirmation of Payee, giving customers an extra layer of reassurance when making payments.

    Supporting customers’ financial progress

    “It’s positive to see customers continuing to save and invest. Our KiwiSaver and Investment funds have performed strongly and together generated more than $1 billion in investment returns for customers this half. The new ASB Aggressive Funds have delivered more than 20% investment returns for our KiwiSaver and Investment fund customers since they launched in November 2023.”[1]

    More than 580,000 customers used ASB’s digital financial wellbeing tools such as Goal Planner and Support Finder in the past year. These features and ASB’s ongoing investment in leading digital services were recognised by CanStar, which awarded ASB Best Digital Bank for the third year in a row.

    Delivering open banking

    Vittoria says: “Our open banking infrastructure is in place and to encourage early-stage uptake we’re providing it free to third-party providers for the first 12 months. The security of customers’ information remains our top priority: as banking continues to evolve it is critical banks, fintechs, global tech companies and all of government work together towards a common goal of the safe and secure sharing of data.”

    Financial overview

    Compared to six months to June 2024 (cash basis)

    • Total lending increased $2.6 billion or 2% to $112 billion
    • Total customer deposits increased $2.3 billion or 3% to $85 billion
    • Impairment losses on financial assets decreased $43 million or 72% to $17 million

    Compared to the December 2023 prior comparative period (cash basis)

    • Total lending increased $4.0 billion or 4% to $112 billion
    • Total customer deposits increased $3.4 billion or 4% to $85 billion
    • Impairment losses on financial assets increased $7 million or 70% to $17 million
    • Net interest margin increased 9 basis points from 2.21% to 2.30%
    • Cost to income ratio increased 140 basis points to 40.7%

    Compared to December 2023 prior comparative period (stat basis)

    • NPAT increased 2% to $763 million
    • Return on equity decreased 60 basis points to 13.5%

    [1] Returns are net of fees but before tax. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance, see ASB’s website for more information.  Interests in the ASB KiwiSaver Scheme and ASB Investment Funds (Schemes) are issued by ASB Group Investments Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of ASB Bank Limited (ASB). For the Scheme’s product disclosure statements, see ASB’s website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Benefit levels fail to keep families out of poverty

    Source: Green Party

    The Salvation Army’s State of the Nation report is a bleak indictment on the failure of Government to take steps to end poverty, with those on benefits, including their children, hit hardest.

    “Poverty is a political choice this Government is choosing for our communities, intentionally exacerbating inequality and pushing thousands of families into hardship,” says the Green Party Spokesperson for Social Development, Ricardo Menéndez March.

    “In this country, we have the means and resources to ensure all whānau have the basics for a good life and don’t fall through the gaps.

    “Unfortunately half of all children living in material hardship are in benefit households, the very families that this Government is forcing into deeper poverty with policies that sanction and punish beneficiaries.

    “The Salvation Army’s report also highlights the need to transform Work and Income’s culture to one where people are treated with trust and respect. 

    “People should not be declined hardship assistance when they are in need of help, and yet more people have been declined for this very critical support at a time when material hardship for children is increasing.

    “This report also reinforces what people on the ground have been telling us for years: Māori and Pasifika people have been hardest hit by benefit sanctions, lack of access to adequate support, and ongoing discrimination by the very same agencies meant to support them.

    “Poverty is not something we have to accept, we can choose to end it. The Green Party campaigned on ending poverty with our Income Guarantee that would ensure everyone has enough food to put on the table, no matter how tough times get,” says Ricardo Menéndez March.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property solution for Wellington Girls’ College

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is providing Wellington Girls’ College certainty by confirming funding for the school’s long-term property solution.
    “Cabinet has approved funding for the next stage of the school’s redevelopment. It will deliver safe, warm and dry learning environments that will ensure Wellington Girls’ College continues to deliver a world-leading education for generations to come,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.
    The next stage will deliver:

    A new two-storey building to deliver replacement classrooms and administration/resource space.
    A new replacement school hall.
    Earthquake strengthening works on Brook Block.
    Relocation of some of the modular classrooms on the school field and two-storey modulars to their permanent location to deliver new classrooms as part of this next stage of the project.
    Reinstatement of the school field.
    Removal of the end-of-life prefabricated classrooms that will no longer be required.

    This stage is on top of the investment to deliver one and two-storey modular classrooms, strengthening works on the Pipitea Block, and delivering covered courts. The new two-storey building and relocated modulars will deliver around 20 classrooms for the school. The total investment across both previous and future works is around $100 million.
    “This Government is developing a more efficient and sustainable solution for how we deliver school property. It is our expectation the Ministry of Education prioritises repeatable and modular buildings and is transparent when communicating with schools throughout the planning process.
    “The new two-storey modular classrooms delivered ahead of Term 1 are a great example of what we can do when we focus on speed, innovation, and working collaboratively with the market, and I expect to see more of this approach across the country.”
    Work is expected to begin on the new two-storey building and hall in 2026. Work on Pipitea Block is already underway and is expected to be completed mid-2025. Strengthening of Brook Block and other redevelopment works are planned to begin onsite by the end of 2025.
    “Improving education infrastructure is an important part of laying the foundation for New Zealanders to succeed. This Government is committed to delivering just that,” Ms Stanford says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Takahē released to grow wild population

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  12 February 2025

    After travelling from Burwood Takahē Centre near Te Anau and Orokonui Ecosanctuary Dunedin, takahē rangers paused briefly at Glenorchy Primary School for children to wave the birds on to the release site.

    Mana whenua Ngāi Tahu welcomed takahē with a mihi whakatau before they were released.

    The decision to release takahē into the Rees Valley was made after takahē released into Greenstone Valley in 2023 showed early signs of successfully adjusting to their new environment – raising offspring and remaining in a healthy condition.

    Thought to be extinct for 50 years, takahē are a taonga of Ngāi Tahu, unique to New Zealand and the largest flightless species of rail bird in the world. They were famously rediscovered in the Murchison Mountains in 1948.

    DOC’s Takahē Recovery Senior Ranger Glen Greaves says existing wild sites in the Murchison Mountains and the Greenstone Valley are reaching capacity, so the focus is now on establishing more wild populations elsewhere.

    “Finding wild sites with the right habitat, and with predator numbers low enough for takahē to thrive is a challenge – but the Greenstone, Rees, and wider Whakatipu areas likely provide high-quality habitat for takahē.”

    Glen says predator control has been a significant factor in ensuring the translocation can go ahead. However, like other large wild sites, predator threats and dispersal into less-protected areas remain.

    “Setting up new wild populations takes perseverance, and success is not guaranteed,” says Glen.

    “We hope people walking the Rees-Dart track and Routeburn tracks will soon have a good chance of seeing takahē thriving in their natural wild habitat.”

    Ngāi Tahu representative on the Takahē Recovery Group, Gail Thompson says the release of takahē into the Rees Valley is a welcome next step towards the goal of increasing the number of takahē roaming free in the wild.

    “It is my hope the manu will thrive in this valley as they have so far in the Greenstone Valley and that current and future generations will have the opportunity to see takahē in their natural environment.

    “Our tīpuna inhabited the valley to the west of Puahiri/Puahere awa/Rees River and this whenua was part of a well-known network of ara tawhito/trails to pounamu sources. It is heartening that these takahē can now make this place their home,” says Gail.

    Today the total takahē population is more than 500 and growing at about five percent a year. More than half the birds now live at wild sites.

    Kaiwhakahaere/co-chair of Southern Lakes Sanctuary, Greg Lind, says their organisation’s work has been to prepare the Rees Valley for takahē to hopefully thrive upon their return to this special area.

    “We have been servicing a network of more than 500 traps in suitable takahē habitats and have been focused on intensive feral cat control,” says Greg.

    “This takahē release is a great example of the power of collaboration, with each party making vital contributions to make this a reality. This includes everyone from donors, iwi, landowners, community groups and DOC.”

    A further two takahē releases into the Rees Valley are planned for later this year, with the aim of establishing a population of up to 80 takahē in the Rees Valley in 2025.

    DOC’s Takahē Recovery Programme, supported by National Partner Fulton Hogan and New Zealand Nature Fund, together with Ngāi Tahu and Southern Lakes Sanctuary have been working together to create one large self-sustaining population of takahē in the Upper Whakatipu – with the shared goal of restoring takahē to whenua they likely inhabited centuries ago. 

    Acknowledgments

    Ngāi Tahu

    Takahē have special cultural, spiritual, and traditional significance to Ngāi Tahu. Ngāi Tahu value takahē as a taonga (treasure) and continue to act as kaitiaki (guardians) of takahē by working with DOC to protect this precious species.

    Seven of the 18 Ngāi Tahu Papatipu Rūnanga have a shared interest in and around Whakatipu Waimāori, Tāhuna and the inland Ōtākou region. Those seven rūnanga are: Te Rūnanga o Moeraki, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, Hokonui Rūnanga, Oraka Aparima Rūnaka, Te Rūnaka o Awarua and Waihōpai Rūnaka. The release had their full support.

    DOC and the Takahē Recovery Programme

    Fulton Hogan joined with DOC as a national partner to the Takahē Recovery Programme in July 2016. The New Zealand Nature Fund has a long-standing association with the programme and joined the DOC and Fulton Hogan partnership in July 2016, providing administration and advocacy support. DOC and the Takahē Recovery Programme are also supported by Air New Zealand, and 18 sanctuary sites throughout the country that provide safe breeding places for takahē to grow their numbers to feed into wild sites.

    Southern Lakes Sanctuary

    The Southern Lakes Sanctuary Trust is a consortium of six local groups that collectively represent 84 community groups, landowners, and businesses, who in turn have been working for many years to protect and restore the declining biodiversity of the Southern Lakes region. The consortium relies on the mahi of hundreds of committed and dedicated volunteers, throughout the district. Their tireless work, which has been quietly ploughing on for many years, is the foundation upon which the Southern Lakes Sanctuary is built. The group’s extensive predator trapping work in the Rees Valley has been supported by RealNZ, Impact100, Lotteries, Stout Trust, Patagonia, QLDC, CLT, AJ Hackett Bungy New Zealand and Heli Glenorchy.

    Takahē thrive in new wild home on Ngāi Tahu whenua in Ōtākou/Otago: Media release 15 August 2024

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Finance – ASB drops mortgage rates further

    Source: ASB

    ASB has today announced decreases on some of its most popular mortgage terms, with market-leading rates across the major banks on 6-month, 1-year and 18-month terms from today. The 6-month term drops 10 basis points to 5.89%, the 1-year rate drops to 5.49% while the 18-month term falls 15 basis points to 5.19%.

    ASB’s Executive General Manager Adam Boyd says today’s rate changes will be welcome news for home loan customers and those looking to refix or buy.

    “We’ve lowered rates across several terms three times in the past month, giving our customers and prospective buyers a range of options – whether they’re after short-term relief or longer-term certainty. We already know how popular the short-term rates are, and we’ve seen growing interest in the 18-month term this year. Competition is fierce when it comes to interest rates, and we’re pleased to be offering lower mortgage rates for New Zealanders”, says Boyd.

    In line with falling wholesale rates, ASB has also reduced some of its term deposit rates.  “We know that an easing interest rate environment can mean different things for homeowners and for savers. We’ve got a range of options available to support our customers and we encourage them to reach out to us for tailored guidance and advice.”

    All rate adjustments are effective immediately for new and current customers.

     

      Fixed home lending term

    Previous rate

    New rate

    Rate decrease

    6-month

    5.99%

    5.89%

    – 10 bps

    1-year

    5.54%

    5.49%

    – 5 bps

    18-month

    5.34%

    5.19%

    – 15 bps

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tenants’ privacy rights in the spotlight

    Source: Office of the Privacy Commissioner

    The hunt to land a flat over summer shouldn’t come at the expense of people’s privacy rights, warns Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster.
    “There’s often a lot of pressure on people, especially students, to find a flat quickly, which risks privacy shortcuts being taken and that can put both tenants and landlords at risk.
    Tenants should be aware they have privacy rights when applying for a flat and that landlords have obligations under the Privacy Act, Mr Webster says.
    “Tenants are often desperate to find a flat, so they might disclose a whole lot of personal information that isn’t legally required. Essentially, they’re giving others power over their own details and that isn’t a great strategy.”
    The desire to get a tenant quickly could also lead some landlords to take privacy shortcuts, which puts people at risk.
    “The majority of landlords care about their tenants’ privacy, but there can be a lot of factors to weigh up when considering applications and it can be tempting to over collect personal information and to get details that aren’t legally allowed. It can also mean they can end up with a large amount of information with no way to manage or store it safely.
    “Landlords need to know what information they can legally collect, and when. They also need to make sure personal information collected during the rental application process is kept secure and is not disclosed without authorisation.”
    “Personal information has value and is protected under the Privacy Act at all stages of the rental process. It’s important shortcuts aren’t taken to fill a flat and that only the necessary personal information is supplied and only when its needed.”
    Personal characteristics, including relationship status, age, gender identity and employment status are protected under the Human Rights Act. Things like spending habits, experience of family violence, employment history and social media URLS are protected under other Acts.
    To help educate landlords and tenants OPC had updated its guidance for the rental sector to help make sure that privacy is respected throughout the application process.
    Information for both landlords and tenants is available at privacy.org.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – Energy Competition Task Force identifies new ways to empower electricity consumers

    Source: Electricity Authority

    The Energy Competition Task Force (the Task Force) has identified new ways to give consumers more control over their energy costs and to harness the power of rooftop solar and batteries. The Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko (the Authority) is now seeking feedback on three proposed changes to regulation to promote competition, reliable power supply, and efficient operation of the electricity market for the long-term benefit of all New Zealanders.
    Two of the three proposed changes are about rewarding consumers for supplying electricity to the network at peak times, typically through their own solar and battery systems. The other would make ‘time-of-use’ power plans (plans that reward off-peak electricity use) available to most New Zealanders.
    Electricity Authority Chair and Task Force member Anna Kominik says there are real benefits if consumers are empowered to more actively participate in the electricity market, including increased energy resilience and reduced power costs over time.
    “New Zealand’s electricity market currently relies on a few big generators to supply electricity at select locations and transmit it to households and businesses across the country. But as uptake of solar and battery systems continues to increase, more consumers will be able to contribute to our electricity system. And as smart electronics and vehicles become more ubiquitous, consumers will also be able to more actively manage their own energy use and costs.
    “We’re proposing three changes to help support this consumer empowerment and decentralisation of our energy system. Over time, this will increase community resilience and lower power costs for everyone,” she said.
    The proposals would require:
    • Consumer-supply rebates from distributors: lines companies to provide a rebate when consumers supply energy into congested parts of the network (Task Force Initiative 2A)
    • Time-varying retail pricing for consumption: large electricity retailers to offer at least one time-of-use pricing plan to all their customers (Task Force Initiative 2B)
    • Time-varying retail pricing for supply: large electricity retailers to offer at least one time-varying rate for when they buy electricity from consumers (Task Force Initiative 2C).
    Making ‘time-of-use’ power plans more widely available for Kiwis
    Commerce Commission Chair and Task Force member, Dr John Small, said the Initiative 2B proposal would significantly increase availability of ‘time-of-use’ pricing plans. These plans reward consumers for using power during off-peak hours, meaning they can take advantage of cheaper off-peak power, instead of paying a single flat rate.
    “While time-of-use pricing plans aren’t new, many consumers don’t have access to one through their current retailer. As these plans provide a simple, effective tool for consumers to manage their energy use and costs, we’d like to see all major retailers offer them, so more consumers have this choice.”
    Dr Small said the plans have the additional benefit of reducing overall electricity costs for consumers across the country.
    “People on these plans are incentivised to shift their use away from peak periods when electricity is most expensive. The more consumers shift their use at these times – for example by running EV chargers later at night when electricity demand is generally lower – the less high-cost electricity needs to be generated, and this lowers costs for everyone,” he said.
    Rewarding consumers for supplying electricity to the network at peak times
    Kominik explains that the initiative 2A and 2C proposals would reward consumers who can supply electricity when demand on the network is peaking, typically through their own solar and battery systems.
    “We’d like to see people fairly rewarded for supplying power when it’s needed, and incentivise efficient uptake of flexible, small-scale electricity generation systems such as rooftop solar and batteries. Energy from rooftop solar supplied at peak times can ease pressure on the electricity network, reducing demand and keeping the lines costs we all pay for through our power bills to a minimum.
    “By incentivising households and businesses to invest in their own generation, we can help meet New Zealand’s electricity needs when demand is high and improve community resilience,” she said.
    The Task Force invites feedback on these proposals through the eight-week consultation period, which closes at 5pm on Wednesday 9th April, with two further weeks for cross-submissions.
    As part of this consultation package, the Electricity Authority is releasing an issues paper that explores whether the existing pricing rules for distributed generation are fit for purpose. The issues and potential solutions explored in this paper support the proposals in the Task Force initiative 2A consultation paper. Visit this Authority webpage for more information on the issues paper.
    The Energy Competition Task Force was established by the Commerce Commission Te Komihana Tauhokohoko and Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko in August 2024 to investigate ways to improve the performance of the electricity market.
    The Task Force is considering eight initiatives that will encourage more and faster investment in new electricity generation, boost competition, enable homes, businesses and industrials to better manage their own electricity use and costs, and put downward pressure on prices.
    The attached diagram illustrates the various charges between distributors, retailers and consumers and where proposals for initiatives 2A and 2C would be incorporated. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – Climate and public health the winners as big waste incineration proposal fails – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace welcomes news that a land-use agreement in Glenavy has lapsed and will not be renewed, which means a proposed $350 million waste to energy incinerator cannot be built there by the company SRRL.
    It would have been the first polluting waste to energy incinerator built of its kind in Aotearoa New Zealand.
    “This is great news for the climate and for the health of the local community, which has strongly opposed the building of a waste to energy incinerator in Glenavy in the Waimate district. Aotearoa New Zealand’s energy future is in renewable clean energy such as wind and solar, not burning waste with fossil fuels,” says Greenpeace spokesperson Juressa Lee.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa has opposed the proposal since it became public in September 2021 and subsequently wrote to the Minister for the Environment to call-in the proposal under the RMA. With a change of government in 2023, the Luxon government decided to include the proposal in its list of projects that could apply for consent under its new Fast-track Approvals legislation, under which community concerns, public health and environmental considerations would be set aside in favour of the company’s own questionable claims for economic benefits.
    The local community in the Waimate district, including local iwi, Te Rūnanga o Waihao, Why Waste Waimate, Waimate Doctors and national environmental groups, including Zero Waste Network Aotearoa, 350 Aotearoa and others, have all campaigned to stop the proposed waste incinerator. Greenpeace pays tribute to all of them and shares in their delight at the news.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH76 Brougham Street upgrades prioritised as a Road of Regional Significance

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will prioritise delivery of upgrades to SH76 Brougham Street in Christchurch as a Road of Regional Significance, including an overbridge between Collins and Simeon Streets, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.  

    “The Government is committed to delivering transport infrastructure that boosts economic growth and productivity, reduces congestion, and creates a safer and more reliable transport network for people, vehicles, and freight,” Mr Bishop says.

    “Carrying over 45,000 vehicles per day, SH76 Brougham Street is a critical route servicing the commercial, industrial, and residential areas south of Christchurch. It is also the main freight route to the South Island’s largest port at Lyttleton.

    “In May last year, the Government confirmed funding for the pre-implementation phase only for this project. This funding ensured a no-frills and value for money approach to design could be completed by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), and strategic property purchases and consenting work could continue in parallel. 

    “Cabinet has now confirmed funding will be provided by the Crown to NZTA to deliver this important Road of Regional Significance, with construction to begin by mid-2025, subject to statutory approvals. The overbridge is expected to be completed within two years, and wider improvements started once property and consenting requirements are completed.

    “The intersection upgrades and other interventions along the corridor will improve efficiency and safety as well as making travel times more reliable.  

    “Once completed, the overbridge will enable local residents and school children to safely cross over the highway, rather than using the existing level crossing, as well as improving travel time reliability for freight going to and from the port.

    “Prioritising the delivery of roading investment across New Zealand is part of our plan to boost economic growth, and I look forward to construction starting on the SH76 Brougham Street upgrades as soon as possible.

    “Overall funding will be confirmed once a contractor has been appointed.” 

    Notes to Editor 

    • Cabinet has confirmed funding will be provided by the Crown to the NZ Transport Agency to deliver the SH76 Brougham Street upgrades.
    • This funding will be a drawn down from the tagged contingency set aside in Budget 2024 to enable the NZ Transport Agency to bring forward priority projects that would otherwise be phased to begin from 2027 onwards.
    • Overall funding to deliver the SH76 Brougham Street upgrades will be confirmed publicly once a contractor is in place to deliver the project.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Consultation opens on fisheries reforms

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Feedback is being sought on proposed changes to the Fisheries Act which Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says are the most significant reforms in the sector for decades.
    “The Coalition Government is committed to the success of the fishing industry, which generates around $1.6 billion in exports each year and employs 9000 people directly. The proposed changes, which I flagged in September last year, will remove unnecessary regulations that impede productivity and the potential of the sector. It is through changes in industries like this that New Zealand is going to fight its way back to economic prosperity,” Mr Jones says.
    The proposals in the consultation document released today, set out options to strengthen, streamline, and add to the tools available to set sustainable catch limits, improve privacy protections for fishers on vessels with onboard cameras, and more effectively deal with fish discarded under the Quota Management System.
    The proposals were developed following a seafood industry forum established last year.
    “Sustainability will always be the bottom line for fisheries management, and there’s an opportunity to lift export revenue by improving productivity and efficiency, rather than catch volume,” Mr Jones says.
    “These proposals make the most of improvements to data collection to drive an effective and efficient fisheries system, while continuing to ensure healthy sustainable fisheries.
    “They recognise the need to cut red tape from decision-making processes and improve responsiveness, efficiency and certainty. They include a range of options that would be applied to set sustainable catch limits while accounting for the strength of information available, the characteristics of the fish stock, and environmental and socio-economic factors.” 
    The rollout of cameras has provided more and better-quality information about the fishery but consideration must be given to protecting the privacy of Kiwis going about their work at sea.
    “This includes enhancing protections for on-board camera footage, amending the scope of where monitoring is not practical or necessary, and clarifying when cameras must be used,” Mr Jones says.
    “Finally, the proposals set out ways the rules around discards can be made more practical and workable for fishers where there is monitoring by onboard cameras or fisheries observers. 
    “I encourage anyone with an interest to read through the proposals and provide feedback.” 
    The consultation document and other details, including how to make a submission, can be found on MPI’s website.
    Submissions close at 5pm on 28 March 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Murder charge filed in Lake Hawea homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Otago Lakes Area Commander, Inspector Paula Enoka:

    A man is appearing in court today charged with the murder of Karen White last year.

    Ms White was killed in her Lake Hawea home on Friday 8 March, 2024.

    Following a lengthy investigation, Police have now charged a 61-year-old man with murder, and he is due in Queenstown District Court today.

    Police continue to support the family and friends of Ms White, and our condolences go out to them.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fisheries reform: proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Have your say

    Fisheries New Zealand wants your feedback on a package of proposals that will enhance value to fishers and better ensure sustainability. These proposed reforms will:

    • improve the responsiveness, efficiency, and certainty of decision-making
    • provide greater protection for on-board camera footage and ensure the on-board camera programme is workable
    • implement new rules for commercial fishers that set out when QMS (Quota Management System) fish must be landed and when they can be returned to the sea.

    The consultation opened on 12 February and will close at 5pm on 28 March 2025.

    Online public meetings

    During the consultation period, we’ll be holding 3 public online meetings. At these sessions, we’ll give you a high-level presentation on the proposals and you’ll have a chance to ask questions.

    • Session 1 – Monday 24 February 2025
    • Session 2 – Monday 3 March 2025
    • Session 3 – Thursday 13 March 2025.

    If you would like to attend one of the meetings, you must register.

    Register for an online meeting – SurveyMonkey

    We encourage you to read the consultation document before you attend.

    Consultation document

    Proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act 1996 [PDF, 2.4 MB]

    Related document: supplementary information

    Part 3 of the consultation document seeks input into how we plan to implement new rules for commercial fishers that set out when QMS species must be landed and when they can be returned to the sea. Further detail on one of the proposals is in the supplementary information document.

    Proposed adjustments to Total Allowable Catch settings for stocks where a current landing exception is removed [PDF, 585 KB]

    Why we’re making these changes

    The Government has made commitments to lift New Zealand’s productivity and economic growth – increasing opportunities and prosperity for all New Zealanders, including the seafood sector.

    We now have access to better quality and more frequent data through electronic reporting by fishers and verification of some of this data by onboard cameras and fisheries observers.

    The proposed changes respond to the Government’s goals and take advantage of new data and analytical tools to improve how we manage New Zealand’s fisheries.

    Making your submission

    We must get your feedback by 5pm on Friday 28 March 2025. We’d prefer you used our online survey form but you can also email or post a submission. 

    Online submission form – SurveyMonkey

    Email

    Email your submissions to fish.reform@mpi.govt.nz

    Post

    Post your written submission to:

    Fisheries Policy Team
    Policy and Trade Branch
    Ministry for Primary Industries
    PO Box 2526 Wellington 6140
    New Zealand.

    What to include in your email and postal submission

    Make sure you tell us:

    • the title of the consultation document [‘Proposed amendments to the Fisheries Act 1996’]
    • your name and title
    • your organisation’s name (if you are submitting on behalf of an organisation, and whether your submission represents the whole organisation or a section of it)
    • your contact details (such as phone number, address, and email).

    Submissions are public information

    Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

    People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

    If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Twelve months to re-negotiate contracts before income threshold policy takes effect

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says an income threshold for unjustified dismissal claims will apply to existing employment agreements after one year. 

    The income threshold was announced last year and will be introduced as part of upcoming changes to the Employment Relations Act. It delivers on the ACT-National coalition agreement commitment to set an income threshold above which personal grievances cannot be pursued. 

    “Cabinet agreed that the income threshold applies to existing employment agreements with a 12-month transition period and I can now announce further details. This means:

    • An employee is no longer on an existing employment agreement if they move to a new employer, or they shift to a new role within the same employer. However, if the employee shifts to a new role with the same employer as a result of a restructure, the transition period will still apply. 
    • If an employee is dismissed before the threshold applies to them, the employee will be able to raise an unjustified dismissal grievance within the 90-day period. For example, if an employee on an existing employment agreement is dismissed 10 days before the end of the transitional period, they will be able to raise an unjustified dismissal claim after the end of the transition period, so long as it is within the 90-day period.

    “The $180,000 threshold will apply to new employment agreements once the Bill is passed and will apply to existing employment agreements 12 months after the Bill is passed,” says Ms van Velden. 

    The transition period gives workers and employers time to amend employment agreements if they choose to. This includes the ability to opt back in to unjustified dismissal protection or negotiate their own dismissal procedures by agreeing to any changes and including them in their employment agreement. 

    “This policy will provide greater labour market flexibility, enabling businesses to ensure they have the best fit of skills and abilities for their organisation. It allows employers to give workers a go in high impact positions, without having to risk a costly and disruptive dismissal process if things don’t work out.” 

    “This policy will provide more flexibility and choice by allowing high income workers and employers to negotiate the terms and conditions related to dismissal that best suit their preferences and circumstances,” says Ms van Velden.

    Editor notes:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police locate person sought following incident in Clutha area

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Today Police have located the person sought in relation to alleged firearms offending in the Clutha area.

    Police have engaged in dialogue with the person, who is believed to be alone, at a rural Clutha property.

    The situation is contained and there is currently no risk to the public.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: Mouse Point Road, Hurunui

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police can confirm one person has died following a crash in Hurunui this afternoon.

    The two-vehicle crash on Mouse Point Road was reported just after 4:20pm.

    The person died at the scene, no further injuries were reported.

    The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conduct a scene examination.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 2025 Pacific Judicial Conference

    Source: New Zealand Governor General

    Rau rangatira mā, e huihui nei, tēnei aku mihi nui ki a koutou. Nau mai haere mai ki Te Whare Kawana o Tāmaki Makaurau. Kia ora tātou katoa.

    I’d like to specifically acknowledge: Rt Hon Dame Helen Winkelmann, Chief Justice of New Zealand, and Rt Hon Winston Peters, Deputy Prime Minister.

    And to all our very distinguished international guests here this evening – including representatives from 15 Pacific Island nations, as well as Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. I’m delighted to note that Chief Justice of the Federal Court of Australia, The Honourable Debra Mortimer, is in fact a New Zealander from Kaipara.

    I understand that the last Pacific Judicial Conference to be held in Aotearoa New Zealand was over ten years ago, in 2014, when my predecessor, Sir Jerry Mateparae, hosted an equivalent gathering here at Government House Auckland. It feels especially fitting that this conference should return to Tāmaki Makaurau, this beautiful city, and one of the world’s most diverse, which has long borne the mantle of Polynesian Capital of the World.

    Such a diverse and distinguished gathering no doubt brings with you an immense breadth of experiences, perspectives, and areas of legal expertise.

    It was former American Chief Justice, Earl Warren, who once said: ‘It is the spirit and not the form of the law that keeps justice alive.’ As leaders of your respective and highly-diverse judiciaries, I’m sure you find yourselves grappling with many of the same issues: safeguarding judicial independence and respect for the rule of law; the opportunities and dangers of technology; ensuring diversity within the judiciary; geopolitical unrest; and the ongoing existential threat of climate change – all topics I’m heartened to note on the agenda for this conference.

    Its overarching theme, ‘Strengthening the Institution of the Judiciary – Kia Tū Pakari ai te Whare Whakawā’, feels particularly apt in the face of such issues – acknowledging, as it does, that without strong and trusted public institutions, society loses its capacity to meet and overcome these challenges.

    I trust that these days together afford an environment conducive to rich and challenging discussions, and lay the foundation for lasting relationships and productive collaboration across your judiciaries.

    Throughout my own career, straddling both academia and the public sector, I recall how enriching and rewarding I found these kinds of gatherings – leaving me so often deeply inspired, and filled with a renewed sense of purpose as I returned to my role, whether leading a university, or advocating for the wellbeing of children and families.

    In this next stage of my career, serving as New Zealand’s Governor-General, I have found myself with my own responsibilities in the application and safeguarding of New Zealand law: responsibilities I hold most sacred. They have also given me a new and profound appreciation for the judiciary, and the demanding work you do in the service of society.

    The questions that you contend with fundamentally shape the world we inhabit and share: determining whether or not our societies are fair; whether or not people are treated equally, regardless of gender or beliefs or background; and whether or not our planet will survive.

    I acknowledge, in grappling with these questions through the application of the law and your own scrupulous intellectual and moral standards, the great and often lonely responsibility you each bear. However, I have little doubt that you view that responsibility, and your service to your respective countries, not as a burden, but a privilege.

    In te reo Māori, we have a whakataukī, or a proverb, which says: ‘Ka kuhu au ki te ture, hei matua mō te pani. I seek refuge in the law for it is a parent to the oppressed.’ I wish to take this opportunity to thank you, for all that you do as parents of the oppressed, and our societies’ upholders of goodness, fairness, and justice.

    I also wish to once again thank Dame Helen – our own outstanding Chief Justice – for so graciously stepping into the Administrator’s role whenever I have been fulfilling my vice-regal duties overseas.

    To those of you visiting New Zealand for the first time, I hope you have the opportunity to experience a little more of our country while you are here, and to spend some time exploring this beautiful city. In the meantime, I wish you all a most rewarding and enjoyable few days.

    Nō reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā tātou katoa.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Experts chosen for electricity market review

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has appointed independent experts to review the performance of the electricity markets, Energy Minister Simon Watts and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones say.

    “The power crisis we experienced last winter highlighted how important affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices is to the economic growth and prosperity of Kiwi households and businesses alike,” Mr Watts says.

    “Energy security is a top priority for the Coalition Government as the economy electrifies and we work to double New Zealand’s renewable electricity generation. We expect to see market-led approaches to energy security throughout the transition, and we want to make sure the markets are performing effectively.

    “This review will help ensure our regulatory settings can deliver on the long-term interests of consumers, keep prices down for Kiwis and keep the lights on.

    “From the review’s inception, we were clear that we needed experts capable of bringing a fresh perspective to the complex challenges facing our markets. Those chosen are well-qualified with significant expertise in international electricity market design, risk management, competition policy and financial instruments.”

    Mr Jones says New Zealand cannot afford another winter like 2024 in which businesses shut down, manufacturing ground to a halt, and cheap coal was brought in from overseas kept the lights on.

    “If we are to grow the economy, we cannot allow a shortage of power to stunt that growth. We are a resourceful nation and our businesses have to be able to continue without worrying whether they can afford the power bill or having to choose between shutting down production or keeping staff.”

    Global consultancy Frontier Economics will be the lead reviewer, addressing the seven questions specified in the review’s terms of reference.

    The two peer review roles will be taken on by a team of international experts in energy economics with particular expertise in market design. The peer reviewers will provide an added layer of quality assurance and accuracy to ensure the review reports are robust and reliable.

    New Zealand-based Concept Consulting will act as New Zealand expert advisor, responsible for ensuring Frontier Economics has solid awareness and understanding of the New Zealand context.

    “Collectively, these independent experts bring a wealth of experience, insight, and the fresh perspectives needed for this type of review,” Mr Watts says.

    Ministers expect the review’s final reports to be delivered by the end of June, after which Cabinet will make decisions on next steps.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Heritage – Frozen in time – National Lamb Day celebrations at Totara Estate

    Source: Heritage New Zealand

    Totara Estate near Ōamaru will play a prime role in this year’s National Lamb Day celebrations on February 15.
    The historic farmstead, a Tohu Whenua cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, sent the first-ever shipment of frozen export meat from New Zealand to Britain in 1882, an event that created the multi-billion dollar industry that changed New Zealand’s economy forever.
    February 15 commemorates the exact day 143 years ago when the ship Dunedin left Port Chalmers for the three-month voyage to London carrying just under 5000 sheep and lamb carcasses that had been freshly processed at Totara Estate.
    “This was a significant moment in New Zealand’s history and Totara Estate was at the epicentre of it. It’s very appropriate that this place is a central part of National Lamb Day celebrations,” says Totara Estate Property Lead Jacqui Allison.
    Celebrations will be particularly fitting for the occasion, with New Zealand’s rich agricultural heritage featuring prominently.
    “We’re looking forward to inspiring people with live demonstrations by local experts who will showcase a range of farm-related talents including knife skills, butchery, blade shearing, spinning and other wool crafts,” she says.
    “Visitors will also be able to engage their minds with some captivating live readings and entertaining talks that bring history and culture to life – or just ‘chill’ to the sounds of local musicians who will create the perfect festive mood.”
    And if that wasn’t enough, a range of outdoor games for kids, and older people with a finely developed inner child, promise laughter and smiles all around.
    People can bring their own picnic, or support some of the local businesses who will be there on the day, including Mark from That Food Guy and Barb from Brews and Bites.
    “We’re looking forward to hosting the community in what is shaping up to be a fantastic celebration of a very important date in New Zealand’s history,” says Jacqui.

    Totara Estate would like to acknowledge the support of Gallaway Cook Allan , the National Lamb Day team and The Better Drinks Company in putting together this event.
    From minus zero to hero
    It was a big gamble sending a load of frozen meat from New Zealand to London in 1882.
    Besides the huge investment of actually prepping the first export shipment, the sheer size of the cargo versus the logistics of carrying coal for the long trip made a steam-powered ship impractical, and so the cargo had to travel for three months under sail. Success of the mission depended on the onboard refrigeration system running well.
    Fortunately the man at the helm of the Dunedin was Captain John Whitson, who had taken the time to read up on refrigeration prior to leaving New Zealand. A good thing too. On the way, the ship was becalmed in the tropics and the crew noticed that the cold air in the hold was not circulating, endangering the meat.
    Whitson crawled into the hold, sawed some extra air holes to improve the flow of cold air in order to keep the temperature low, though almost froze to death in the process. Thankfully the crew managed to haul him out of the freezer and resuscitate him.
    As a result of Whitson’s determination, the ship arrived with its cargo in excellent condition. Only one carcass had to be condemned. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mouse Point Road, Hurunui closed following crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a two-vehicle crash on Mouse Point Road, Hurunui.

    The crash was reported just after 4:20pm, near Hanmer Springs Road.

    Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.

    The road is currently closed. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police to monitor gang event, Taumarunui

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police will be actively monitoring a gang gathering in the Taumarunui area this week, ensuring the disruption to the public is limited.

    Members of the King Country Mongrel Mob are expected to gather in the Taumarunui region for a reunion event, planned for 13-17 February.

    Additional Police staff will be in the region to work to reduce disruption on the roads and ensure the community feel safe.

    Police have been in touch with the organisers of the event and have set clear expectations about the behaviour of attendees. A number of local businesses have also been approached for reassurance ahead of this event.

    Anyone who sees illegal or unsafe activity is asked to contact 111 if it is happening now or report other matters to Police by calling 105 or making an online report here.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 11 February 2025 Kāinga Ora tackles rent debt As part of its reset, Kāinga Ora is changing its approach to managing rent debt to speed up repayment and address some historic issues. Chief Executive Matt Crockett outlines the changes that are being made and the reasons for them.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    Over the past 12 months, our frontline teams have been working with tenants to reduce their rent debt. This has resulted in total rent debt falling from $21.6 million in January 2024 to $16.1 million at the same time this year.

    But we want the amount owed to fall faster and to make sure we keep rent debt down in the future. So we are making changes as part of the broader reset of Kāinga Ora to address this.

    New policy

    We’re going to reduce debt by taking a firmer approach with tenants who are behind on their rent. We will be fair and reasonable – but rent must be paid.

    We will continue to support households who fall on hard times but are making genuine attempts to get back on track with their rent. We’re a social housing landlord so that’s the right thing to do.

    But, through our new rent debt policy, we are drawing a line on how patient we can be. We don’t want to end tenancies, but we will if tenants are not meeting their obligations to reduce their rent debt, are skipping rent payments or refusing to work with us.

    We’re also taking action to prevent large debts in future. Our new approach seeks to ensure that tenants will not have accumulated more than 12 weeks’ worth of rent debt when their tenancy is ended. This means we will begin the process of ending a tenancy earlier than in the past. This provides clarity about what will happen, and when, to both our tenants and our frontline.

    Partial debt forgiveness

    A small number of Kāinga Ora tenants – less than 3% – have accumulated more than 12 weeks’ worth of rent debt. There are a range of reasons for this, including social and economic events over the past five years and the steps Kāinga Ora took to respond to government policy, particularly during the pandemic.

    We’re going to help those tenants get on top of their rent debt faster by reducing the amount owed to a level that is more realistic for them to repay in full. We’ll only do this for tenants who are consistently paying their rent and making reasonable payments to reduce their debt. In return for this one-off help, tenants must continue reducing their debt.

    This will provide a clear incentive to tenants who are not currently meeting their obligations to change their behaviour and speed up repaying what they owe. If they consistently do this, they will be eligible to have part of their debt forgiven. But if they do not, we will take steps to end their tenancy.

    We expect to forgive up to $8.3 million of the $16.17 million we’re owed. This is already provisioned for on our balance sheets as it is regarded as doubtful debt, so there will be no impact on our financial performance.

    We think this is the right thing to do. The likelihood of collecting all this debt is low, given the time it will take tenants to pay it off and the significant costs associated with chasing it. We’re also conscious that during the pandemic the steps we took to respond to government policy meant we didn’t chase debt in the way we normally would, so we carry a measure of responsibility.

    We’re being pragmatic. We think we’re better off focusing on recovering the remaining debt faster and ensuring current tenants do not get into too much debt.

    All tenants whose debt is reduced will still have a significant amount to repay. And they’ll have a strong incentive to do this under our new policy, which it makes it clear we will end tenancies if tenants do not meet their rent obligations.

    Looking ahead

    It’s important we strike the right balance between supporting households in difficult circumstances and ensuring that our tenants meet their obligations. We will be closely monitoring the impact of both the new rent debt policy and partial rent debt forgiveness to ensure we have the right balance. If necessary, we will make further adjustments.

    Page updated: 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, Greta Valley

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now name the two women who died in a crash on State Highway 1, Greta Valley on 19 December.

    They were Lu-Yao Lin from China, and Siriyakorn Sovitayasakul from Thailand.

    Both women were aged 28 and were in New Zealand on working holidays.

    Our thoughts are with their families and loved ones in their home countries, and their friends and colleagues in New Zealand.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kāinga Ora getting firmer on rent payments

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Kāinga Ora is introducing clearer consequences for state house tenants who skip rent payments, build up debt, then refuse to work with the social housing provider to encourage better responsibility, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says.

    In March 2024, Ministers instructed Kāinga Ora to end its Sustaining Tenancies Framework which had allowed tenants to stay living in a KO home no matter how threatening or disruptive their behaviour, or how huge their debt from unpaid rent.

    “We’ve seen success so far that taking action against disruptive tenants is leading to improved behaviour. Now we want to keep up that momentum when it comes to encouraging people to responsibly pay their rent,” Mr Potaka says.

    “Under the previous Government, tenants were allowed to build up so much debt that it has become unrealistic for them to repay. Between 2017 and 2023, the total debt owed to Kāinga Ora by its tenants increased from $1 million to $21 million.

    “This isn’t in anyone’s best interests – not for tenants or taxpayers. The new rent debt policy being introduced will change that,” Mr Potaka says.

    “Tenants who fall behind in their rent will receive support from Kāinga Ora to get back on track, but if they don’t make a genuine effort to repay what they owe, they will be putting their tenancy at risk. This will provide clear incentive to tenants who are not currently meeting their obligations to change their behaviour and speed up repayment.

    “Since we came into office, Kāinga Ora has already begun working harder with tenants to reduce their rent debt. This has resulted in total rent debt falling from $21.6 million in January 2024 to $16.1 million at the same time this year.

    Mr Potaka said the decision by the Board of Kāinga Ora to help some tenants with significant rent debt get on top of their debt faster by reducing the amount they owe down to 12 weeks’ worth of rent is a pragmatic one.

    “Kāinga Ora is bringing the rent debt down to a level that is more realistic for the tenant to repay in full, with the right payment arrangement in place. Kainga Ora will only do this for tenants who had more than 12 weeks’ worth of rent debt at the beginning of February 2025 who are consistently paying their rent and making reasonable payments to reduce what they owe. 

    “All tenants whose rent debt is reduced will still have a significant amount to repay – and they will have a strong incentive to do this under the new policy.

    “While most Kāinga Ora tenants are great tenants who respect the properties, are good neighbours and pay their rent on time, some need a little more tautoko and encouragement to do the right thing.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy Commissioner welcomes Government rethink of social service data collection

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy Commissioner John Edwards has welcomed the Governments plans to rethink the practice of collecting individual client level data from social service providers. The Government announced today that social service contracts will no longer require providers to disclose individual client level data until a new data protection and use policy is in place. This is in contrast to previous plans, which required service providers such as NGOs to provide information about individual clients in order to receive funding. This information included clients’ names, number of children and other social services they engaged with. Mr Edwards said I commend this pause in approach. Projects like this have the potential to do a lot of good by measuring and improving the efficacy of social services.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Better competition on the way for Kiwis

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is progressing its ambitious, economy-wide review to improve competition, lift productivity, and drive down the cost of living, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says.

    “Improved competition is a top priority for this Government. When competition is working well, New Zealand businesses – both big and small – can thrive. This has knock-on benefits for consumers, including greater choice and lower prices in key sectors like fuel, groceries, and banking,” says Mr Bayly.

    “That’s why I launched a review of our competition settings, set out in the Commerce Act, in December last year. Much of the Commerce Act has not been reviewed for over 20 years. I want to ensure our competition settings keep pace with market developments so both Kiwi businesses and consumers can get ahead.

    “Recent tweaks to our competition rules have mainly involved sector-specific legislation. In contrast, this review will improve our overarching competition settings and reduce the need for layers of reactive regulation in individual sectors.

    “We are moving at pace to progress this work. Public consultation has now closed on key parts of the review, including our merger control settings, potential new code-making powers, and modern tools to address anti-competitive conduct.

    “A big focus of the review is on merger settings. Over many decades, New Zealanders have felt first-hand some of the effects of mergers and unhealthy market competition: reduced innovation, a smaller range of goods and services, and increased prices.

    “Many of these could have been avoided if we had more robust merger controls in place. Improved merger settings can lead to better competition and Kiwis getting a fairer deal, and that is why I’ve ensured this is a core part of the review.

    “Thank you to those who provided feedback during this consultation period. Your views will help shape changes to our competition settings to support competitive, dynamic markets that will boost economic productivity and living standards.

    “I expect to announce decisions on next steps in due course.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Address to Public Service Leaders

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Good afternoon everyone and thank you all for making the time to be here.
    I wanted to speak to you early in my tenure as your new Minister for the Public Service because I have a message for you: I’m here to support you in your efforts to deliver the best service possible for the employer we have in common. The taxpayer.
    I’m very happy to have the public service portfolio and I want to acknowledge your hard work and commitment during what has been a challenging past year for many, as ministries and departments have been right-sizing.
    We know it is the right thing to do, to run a ruler over everything we do to make sure we are delivering our best, but it’s never easy telling someone a programme they’ve worked on for several years won’t be proceeding, or that their role no longer exists. I know.  I have had to do it. 
    It’s not something the government has done lightly but it is something that absolutely needed to be done.
    In the six years from 2017 to 2023, the number of people employed in the core public service* grew 34 percent, to 63,117 full-time equivalent employees. Total salary costs for this core public service workforce grew a staggering 72 percent, to about $6.1 billion a year, over the same period.
    We simply do not have sufficient taxpayers to support that kind of growth. We do not have sufficient economic growth to support that level of public spending. 
    And, as I said before, taxpayers pay our wages, and it is the New Zealand taxpayers that we serve. They want to know we are spending their money in ways that are timely and cost-effective.
    New challenges, new solutions
    We live in a fast-changing world that constantly throws up new challenges. Governments and the public service are always under pressure to find new solutions and new ways of working.
    I don’t need to tell you the business of government is complex and challenging and, at times, messy. 
    And when you are knee-deep trying to deliver priorities and the myriad daily challenges that come with the job, it’s not easy looking ahead.
    I know you’ve heard all this before. But my point is this: the more complex and challenging it gets, the more simple we need to keep it.
    Serving the public must always be our top priority, regardless of how tough the operating environment is.  We should never lose sight of this simple objective.
    Setting the highest standards
    It almost goes without saying that the public service must set the highest standards.
    For me, that means doing the basics well and sticking to core business. It means being competent at what you do, upholding political neutrality and delivering free and frank advice, being efficient with taxpayers’ money, being corruption-free and – above all – delivering results for the people we serve.
    Keeping it simple is also being efficient and respectful with the use of taxpayers’ money. Taxpayers trust us to use their resources wisely, and we can not, in the fog of daily pressures and challenges, lose sight of that. 
    Here’s a simple question I would urge you and your staff to ask themselves: if this was my money, would I spend it this way? This is the simple question that I ask myself when I am making funding decisions.  It’s what I need you to do and to enforce. 
    Think of the sharemilker up at the crack of dawn every day whatever the weather. Think of the aged care worker doing their best to give our elderly the care and respect they deserve in their twilight years. Think of the bus driver. The taxi driver. The truck driver.
    All these people want – and deserve – to know that their money is being spent in a way that delivers the services they need in the best way possible. They want results.  They don’t want flow charts, frameworks,  roadmaps, or bubble diagrams.
    They are inherently practical people who want to know that you are helping make their country wealthier, and safer. They want you to treat their taxpayers’ dollars as though it came out of your bank account. 
    Not doing so can harm the reputation of the government, an agency and the public service.  Building trust and confidence, as you know, is a slow and laborious task over many years. But it can be destroyed with one seemingly innocuous act.
    Free and frank
    To that end, I cannot state clearly enough how important it is that you provide free and frank advice.
    Public servants who speak truth to power by telling Ministers their pet policy ideas are crazy and unworkable don’t get far. But neither do public servants who nod along and promise to deliver the undeliverable. That is a betrayal of the responsibilities of a public servant and it results in policy disaster. 
    Ministers do want free and frank advice. Tell us how we can implement our priorities and policies. Tell us how we can improve our policies. Tell us how we can improve outcomes for individuals, families and communities. Tell us when intervention is necessary. And tell us when to stop or change a policy.
    And remember that Ministers, just like senior public servants, have a way of coming back!
    The best public servants know how to use analysis to persuade. They know how to reconcile the vision with realism. And they know how to square the hole. I’ve worked with some fine public servants … some of you here. 
    Public Service Act
    One area of opportunity I want to touch on is the Public Service Act. I think it’s too prescriptive. It’s not allowing the public service to be as innovative as it could be. 
    I intend to look at tightening what the Act says around chief executive responsibilities. The way I see it is that your responsibilities have become too diffuse and roles have become confused.  Instead of telling you that you have to comply with certain named laws brought in by a previous government, why not just require you to implement the law. Laws change.  Standards should not. 
    Coming back into government, it seems to me that you are getting weighed down with things that don’t have much to do with your core responsibilities and where everything becomes a priority. 
    Your core role is to serve the government of the day and focus on the basics, and the Act should reflect this.
    I’d like to hear your thoughts on this. What changes can we make to the Act that will help you do your job better? What are the barriers to you doing your job? What can we change that will allow you to drive innovation and improve service delivery. You are better placed than me and other ministers, so I look forward to any suggestions you have.
    I know the Prime Minister and Minister Willis have asked you to be bold and take a few risks. I’d like to reinforce that. Freedom to fail (hopefully in a small way) can give us freedom to succeed. 
    Innovation isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s a must. We are facing complex challenges that require immediate action. It’s not just being open to new ways of doing things, we need to be doing it. As Benjamin Franklin said, ‘well done is better than well said.’ That’s the culture I’d like to see in the public service.
    Open to new ideas
    I can assure you the Government is open to new ideas. My only condition is that it leads to better outcomes for the public. That’s tangible results. 
    And the language you use needs to be fit for the person who is your customer. As a lawyer in private practice, I learned to explain legal terminology in everyday language.
    If I talked to customers about the ‘mens rea’ and the ‘actus reus’ required for an offence to have been committed, I would have shown them I know some  ‘legal’ Latin, and they might have been impressed. But really, I would just be showing them that I did not understand the first rule of communication -which is to be understood. 
    You and your staff need to think about your customers.  When you are talking to or writing to your customers, think how it sounds to them. 
    Is it gobbledygook? 
    Is it a word salad? 
    Is it arrogant and lacking in empathy?
    Is it inherently distancing you from the people who are paying your salary? 
    My suggestion is to leave the acronyms at the door. 
    Keep your superior language skills for those who will appreciate them. 
    Be appropriate. And remember… it’s no use if you can understand you, but your audience can not. Speak to people as you would like to be spoken to and show respect. And, no matter what, be genuine. 
    Digitising government
    As you know, I am also the Minister for Digitising Government. It’s a portfolio that goes hand in glove with the public service.
    The use of data and Artificial Intelligence is the big opportunity of our time. We stand at the cusp of a digital revolution that has the power to transform the way our government serves New Zealanders.
    If done right, the digitisation of our public service will be game changing, and I am committed to ensuring this happens.
    Online portals, mobile applications and AI-enabled interfaces will ensure people and businesses can access important government services and information, anytime and from anywhere.
    Data-driven AI technologies will allow government agencies to tailor services to meet the specific needs of individuals, communities and businesses.
    New Zealanders already interact with AI-powered services daily. They expect government agencies will be analysing data to gain insights into customer behaviour, preferences and needs.
    I’d like to see the public service embrace the potential of AI. 
    I look forward to seeing a centralised, AI-powered data platform that enables real-time sharing of insights and collaboration between agencies like health, education and housing. It will be able to identify connections that may not be immediately obvious.
    Data dashboards and predictive analytics will provide the insight and evidence Ministers need to make better decisions and timely interventions to improve outcomes. 
    In modernising our public service for the benefit of New Zealanders, think about how we can, in digital procurement, help Kiwi businesses deliver.  Other countries are looking to how they can use procurement as a way to deliver better and more cost effective results by emphasising their own industrial or technology base.  When it makes sense, we should too. 
    Say Yes
    The work you do is vital. New Zealanders depend on it, and on our ability to drive the change required. 
    We have to deliver results. There simply is no other option. New Zealanders need us and expect us to get on with the job now, and I back you to support the government to do what is required.
    As the Prime Minister has made clear, a culture of saying No is not acceptable.  Your challenge is to inspire your staff, your team, to say “Yes”.
    Yes to the licence.
    Yes to the permit.
    Yes to considering trialling AI tutors for kids.
    Yes to delivering a government app that provides the sort of service that the commercial world delivers.
    And Yes to treating our customers like customers.
    New Zealanders should be treated as though they are valued customers with options. That’s what we need to deliver. Treat the taxpayer with dignity and the level of respect that you like to receive. 
    I know you are up for the challenge. But performance is non-negotiable. 
    I know how hard you work. And you are doing some great work. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t take opportunities to reset and ensure our focus is on what matters most – delivering better, more timely results for New Zealanders. 
    I’m excited to be your Minister, and I’m excited at the prospect of what we can achieve together. And I have full confidence in each of you as leaders of our public service. 
    As we move forward together, let’s remember who we serve and how our work impacts the lives of New Zealanders. 
    With hard work, innovation, courage and a shared sense of purpose, we have the power to create a public service that is not only effective, but transformative. 
    I look forward to working with Sir Brian and you to drive the change that is required.
    Thank you.
     
    ** The core Public Service are departments and departmental agencies only. It excludes the wider public sector, such as defence personnel, police, teachers and public healthcare workers.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 1 maintenance steps up a gear in Wellington

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    The State Highway Summer Maintenance programme remains in full swing with State Highway 1 between Newlands and Tawa the next in line for attention over the next month.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager Wellington / Top of the South for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says to date it has been a big maintenance season for the Wellington region, and there is still a lot of work to do.

    “State Highway 1 into Wellington is a critical link, and it needs regular maintenance. So, for the second half of February our road crews will be hard at work resurfacing the highway’s northbound lanes between Johnsonville and Glenside.

    “These are heavily used routes – for State Highway 1, on an average day, more than  30,000 vehicles use the northbound lanes. That is a lot of wear and tear, which is why this resurfacing is necessary. It is all about ensuring the highway remains safe and reliable,” Mr Owen says.

    From Sunday, 16 February until Thursday, 20 February – 9 pm to 4:30 am the highway’s northbound lanes will be closed for resurfacing between the Helston Road overbridge and the Grenada/Glenside offramp. A local road detour will be available via Johnsonville and Middleton Road. People who live in Johnsonville who need to travel north will need to use the Glenside northbound onramp. The highway’s southbound lanes will be open at all times.

    The week following, contractors will resurface the Takapu Road roundabout at Tawa/Grenada North interchange. We will provide a further update once these details have been confirmed.

    “We are doing these works at night when there is less traffic on the road. Closing the road lets us get the job done quicker and reduces traffic management costs. It is also safer for road workers and the public,” Mr Owen says.

    Works Schedule and Detour Route

    • Sunday, 16 February to Thursday, 20 February. 9 pm – 4:30 am
      • SH1 CLOSED to northbound traffic between Johnsonville northbound offramp and Glenside northbound onramp. Local road detour available via Johnsonville and Middleton Road.
      • SH1 southbound lanes will remain OPEN at all times
      • Johnsonville residents will need to access SH1 northbound at Glenside

    More Information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stretches of HB Expressway closing for resurfacing next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    Two stretches of State Highway 2 Hawke’s Bay Expressway will be closing overnight for 4 nights next week for resurfacing.

    The stretch between Prebensen Drive and Taradale Road will be resurfaced first, overnight on 17 and 18 February (next Monday and Tuesday). Crews will then move onto the Taradale Road to Meeanee Road section on the nights of 19 and 20 of February (next Wednesday and Thursday).

    The road will be closed from 8pm til 5am each night.

    Signposted detours will be in place during the work – please plan ahead and expect slightly longer journey times.

    • During the first closure (Prebensen Drive to Taradale Road), northbound road users will be detoured onto SH51 Taradale Road and then onto SH50 Prebensen Drive before rejoining the expressway. The reverse will apply for southbound motorists.
    • During the second closure (Taradale Road to Meeanee Road), northbound road users will be detoured left onto Meeanee Road, right onto Guppy Road, right onto Gloucester Street and into Kennedy Road, before turning left onto Taradale Road and rejoining the expressway. The reverse will apply for southbound motorists.

    During the day, the road will be open, with temporary traffic management in place and a temporary lower speed while the new surface settles.

    This work is weather dependent and the contingency dates are 3-7 March.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi wants to thanks motorists for their support in taking the detours, and expects disruption will be kept to a minimum by doing the work overnight.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH2 Tauranga, Snodgrass Road rebuilt 2 weeks early

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Work to rebuild a section of State Highway 2 (SH2) at night near Snodgrass Road has finished 2 weeks ahead of schedule, with the team wrapping things up last week.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) would like to thank people for their patience and our contractor Fulton Hogan for their hard work in getting this quality job completed in less time.  

    “People are now enjoying a very smooth ride through the Snodgrass Road area,” says Sandra King, System Manager Bay of Plenty. 

    “It’s no small feat. Over the past month, contractors dug up 510 metres of existing road surface, rebuilt each layer, then finished it off with a smooth asphalt surface and brand-new line marking.’  

    While the Snodgrass Road work was underway, there were other maintenance activities, including several other chip sealing sites being completed at night. 

    Due to the sensitive nature of this stretch of state highway, and increasing traffic volumes, rebuilding the road with chip seal is becoming increasingly difficult due to the length of time and temporary speed limits needed to bed in the chip once laid.  

    Any work on SH2, day or night, causes disruption and NZTA appreciates the impact this has on motorists as crews work hard to maintain and renew this important route. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Improving resilience on State Highway 1 in Marlborough – stage 2 works brought forward

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    New resilience work recently got underway on State Highway 1 in Marlborough, south of Blenheim at Dashwood.

    • The start date for the second stage of this work has now been brought forward to start on Monday, 17 February to help avoid the upcoming grape harvest, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    During this time one lane of the highway will remain open under stop/go traffic management 24/7 and a 30 km/h temporary speed limit. 

    • Work is expected to continue until 9 April 2025, but NZTA is aiming to have an end to stop/go traffic management by early March.

    The work involves raising the height of the road to minimise future flooding and complete drainage improvements.

    Wayne Oldfield, Marlborough System Manager, says the 500-metre section of state highway between Awatere Valley Road and the Awatere Bridge is prone to flooding.

    “Making these improvements and increasing the highway’s resilience will help keep the road open in bad weather, and ensure people, products, and places remain connected on this busy arterial route.”

    “It means the transport network will be stronger and better prepared for any future disruption,” Mr Oldfield says.

    The work on the three-lane section of the state highway will be carried out in stages.

    Stage 1 will see the start of new drainage works alongside the highway. During Stage 2, one lane of the highway will remain open under a stop/go traffic management 24/7 and a 30 km/h temporary speed limit.  For Stage 3, two lanes will be open under a 30 km/h temporary speed limit.

    Keeping the road open while work is done is particularly important given the Marlborough grape harvest will soon be underway.

    Mr Oldfield says the work is funded by the Crown Resilience Programme.

    “The fund is about covering the cost of resilience improvements on the state highway network and minimising damage from future weather events.”

    “Marlborough residents know only too well how big an impact floods can have. In previous years, heavy rainfall has resulted in the closure of this stretch of the highway. Investments like this can make a big difference,” Mr Oldfield says.

    Other resilience works recently completed in Marlborough include State Highway 6 Rai Saddle and State Highway 63 at the Wash Bridge.

    Works Schedule overall

    Stage 1 – Early February to 9 April

    • Drainage works undertaken in the swale alongside the highway.
    • Northbound passing lane will be closed during the work activities.

    Stage 2 – 17 February to early March (amended from our first notice of this work)

    • Stop/Go temporary traffic management in place from 24/7 – No work on Sundays.
    • A temporary speed limit of 30 km/h will be in place at the site 24/7.
    • Expect delays of up to 10 minutes.
    • This work is subject to weather and unforeseen circumstances.

    Stage 3 – Early to late March

    • State Highway 1 reopened to two lanes
    • A temporary speed limit of 30 km/h will be in place at the site 24/7.

    More Information

    • The Crown Resilience Programme (previously the Transport Resilience Fund) is a $419 million investment package of resilience improvement activities that will reduce the impact of severe weather events on our national roading networks. This will ensure a more resilient and efficient network now and into the future. The total crown resilience programme comprises $279 million for activities on State Highways, and $140 million for activities on Local Roads.
    • This seven-year programme aims to advance proactive resilience improvements on the roading network to minimise the future damage caused to New Zealand roads by weather events, which have been increasing in frequency and severity.
    • Crown Resilience Programme

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –