NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Bill to improve charity lotteries passes third reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says lotteries run by charities such as Pet Refuge and the Heart Foundation can now operate and advertise online permanently.

    “Temporary legislation that allowed lotteries for non-commercial to operate online was due to expire at the end of October, which would have forced charities who use these lotteries to return to selling tickets in person or by post, and to take down any digital advertising”, says Ms van Velden.

    “In an increasingly digital world this would have had significant negative impacts on the ability of charities to fundraise. There are additional operational costs involved with selling tickets in person and a reduced ability to reach customers, decreasing the revenue that can be put towards vital work in our communities.”

    “This Government has taken quick action to allow these lotteries to operate online permanently, so they can continue to fundraise in an efficient and effective way. I have heard from many well-loved Kiwi charities about the significant difference this change will have for them, including Pet Refuge and the Heart Foundation.”

    “We know these charities make a difference in the lives of New Zealanders and their families every day, and I am pleased that this change will allow them to continue to do so.

    “My Bill to make this permanent change passed its third reading last night, providing certainty to non-profit organisations that they can continue to promote their lotteries without worrying about falling outside of the law by doing so.

    “I give my thanks to all those who submitted on the Bill during select committee, and the many community organisations in New Zealand for their service to local communities.”

    There are currently 46 organisations licensed to offer these charitable lotteries, from well-known charities like the Coastguard and Auckland Rescue Helicopter through to small community sport clubs in Dunedin and Whangārei.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Waikato wetland fire #9

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    The large vegetation fire near Meremere is now under control.
    Fire and Emergency was able to stand down its air operations around 5pm with the fire now contained and controlled.
    The fire remains at 1024 hectares with a 15-kilometre perimeter.
    Incident Controller Mark Tinworth praised his crews for their efforts to get the fire to this point.
    “This is a significant milestone for us as we do not expect the fire to grow any larger in size.
    “We will have drones operating overnight to keep an eye out for reignition of the fire and to identify and monitor hotspots and flareups. 
    “We will continue to have a presence at the site tomorrow as this fire will take some time to fully extinguish due to where it is burning in peat and wetland.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Becoming a rural animal technician the aim for EIT student | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    42 seconds ago

    Ella Cooke, 19, is currently studying Year One of the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing.

    A love for animals and a desire to work as a rural animal technician is what is driving an EIT student to succeed.

    Ella Cooke, 19, is currently studying year one of the Bachelor of Veterinary Nursing. She has grown up with animals and currently lives on an orchard outside Hastings with her parents.

    She attended Iona College last year and came into EIT with a number of scholarships. One was a Year-13 Scholarship from EIT, which is offered annually, and covers one year of tuition fees. The Scholarship supports school leavers across the Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti regions to study any one of EIT’s degrees or selected level 5 diploma programmes that lead into a degree by providing one year FREE study.

    She also won a scholarship from Vet Services Hawke’s Bay, as well as a Prime Minister’s Vocational Excellence Award.

    “I just love animals and love to care for animals and I’ve had four dogs and a cat in my life.”

    Ella says that she is loving the programme, especially the hands-on work with animals.

    “It is not just about attending lectures, but we also actually get to work with animals. We get to learn how to handle the animals properly.”

    “I want to get my qualification, and then I eventually want to work with large animals – livestock – and visit farms.”

    One of the things that Ella loves about EIT, is that it is close to home and she did not have to move out of Hawke’s Bay to achieve her tertiary education dreams.

    Work experience is an important part of the programme, and Ella is due to return to Vet Services in Hastings, where she has been before.

    Emma Martin, EIT’s Veterinary Nursing Programme Co-ordinator said: “Ella has been a pleasure to have in the programme this year. She has come out of her shell, taking full advantage of every learning opportunity and making the most of her experiences. “

    “Ella has received excellent feedback from her clinical placement at Vet Services in Hastings, where she has impressed with her skills and professionalism. She works exceptionally well in a team and has built a strong network of classmates, combining fun with learning experiences. We are excited to see what the future holds for Ella as we continue to support her in reaching her final goals.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mental Health Bill passes first reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A bill that will repeal the current Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act 1992 has passed first reading in Parliament today, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

    “As New Zealand’s first Mental Health Minister I am very pleased to introduce this Bill to the House. This Bill will modernise compulsory mental health care, improve the effectiveness of mental health and addiction support and will put people at the centre of decision-making about their own care,” Mr Doocey says. 

    The legislation will support care being delivered in a way that minimises coercion and is responsive to individual needs. It introduces far greater protections and safeguards, ensuring people understand what is happening to them and what they are entitled to when they are under the legislation.

    In 2018 the He Ara Oranga: Report of the Government Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction recognised the Act was out of date and recommended new legislation that reflects a human rights-based approach, promotes supported decision-making, aligns with the recovery and wellbeing model of mental health, and provides measures to minimise compulsory or coercive treatment.

    “I am very pleased to introduce this Bill to the House and to be taking the next step in fulfilling the Inquiry’s recommendations.

    The legislation will also contribute to an important part of the Government’s response to recommendations made by the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care.

    “We are committed to delivering a considered and comprehensive response the Inquiry’s final report. This Bill will contribute to a number of the recommendations, the majority relate to care safety.

    “This Government is focused on delivering an effective mental health and addiction continuum that puts people at the centre of their care. Making sure we have legislation that can support people who are experiencing the most acute mental distress is a key part of that.”

    Note to editors:
    The recommendations the Mental Health Bill will contribute towards include:
    •    Recommendation 39: Principles for preventing and responding to abuse and neglect in care
    •    Recommendation 46: reviewing legislation relating to the care of children, young people, and adults in care to identify and address any inconsistencies, gaps or lack of coherence in the relevant statutory regimes
    •    Recommendations 65: Complaints are responded to effectively
    •    Recommendation, 73, 74: Institutional environments and practices to be minimised and ultimately eliminated
    •    Recommendations 76, 78 and 80: People in care are empowered and supported
    •    Recommendation 114: Communities are empowered to minimise the need for out of whānau care
    •    Recommendation 118: Giving effect to te Tiriti o Waitangi and human rights

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – The 2024 Māori business leaders shaping Aotearoa’s future – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    Aotearoa’s best and brightest Māori business leaders were honoured at the 2024 Ngā Tohu Kaiārahi Pakihi Māori o Aotearoa | Aotearoa Māori Business Leaders Awards.

    Whakatō te kākano, marotiritiri ai te māra, ka māea ngā hua | Plant the seed, cultivate the garden, reap the benefits.

    A macadamia pioneer, sustainable fisheries champions and a plastic waste-to-product business, were among those honoured at the 2024 Aotearoa Māori Business Leaders Awards.

    The event, held on 23 October and hosted by the University of Auckland Business School, celebrated the remarkable contributions of the Māori entrepreneurs, leaders and organisations shaping Aotearoa’s business landscape.

    Six awards were presented, acknowledging the unique and powerful contributions of Māori leaders, each with their own inspiring story and unique approach to business.

    Vanessa Hayes, founder of kaupapa Māori business Torere Macadamias, won the Entrepreneurial Māori Business Leader award.

    Vanessa and her team are growing the New Zealand macadamia industry, which has historically relied on imported macadamias.

    Torere Macadamias is working with Plant and Food Research, expanding its nursery and encouraging other growers and grower collectives by providing training, workshops and supplying plants from their nursery.

    The company’s orchard produces around 20 tonnes of macadamias annually. And recently, Vanessa and the Torere team celebrated a milestone, winning a contract to supply Air New Zealand on their long haul and business class flights.

    Moana New Zealand was honoured with the Kaitiaki Business Leader award for their dedication to sustainable fisheries management. The seafood company is a 100 percent iwi-owned organisation with a deep sense of responsibility and respect for New Zealand’s fisheries.

    Māori Women’s Development Inc., a charitable trust formed, managed and operated by Māori women, earned the Mānuka Henare award for its continued support of Māori women in business, offering loans and wrap-around support.

    Traci Houpapa, chair of the Federation of Māori Authorities, won the Māori Governance Leader award for her extensive leadership in business and governance, shaping the Māori business landscape. She holds a number of directorships and Ministerial appointments, including Chiefs Rugby and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.

    The Outstanding Māori Business Leader award went to Harry Burkhardt, co-founder and managing director of Replas Ltd, an innovative company transforming waste plastic into valuable products.

    Meanwhile, the Dame Mira Szászy Alumni Award went to Karleen Everitt, a University of Auckland Business School graduate who has had a stellar career and is currently leading Te Ao Māori Strategy at ANZ Bank.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: HazardCo takes its leading health and safety system to the UK

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: HazardCo takes its leading health and safety system to the UK

    HazardCo is proud to announce its expansion into the UK market, marking a significant milestone in its journey as a New Zealand-born tech company. With its roots in New Zealand and a proven track record in Australia, HazardCo is ready to help UK builders feel confident in their compliance and focus on delivering high-quality projects.

    The post HazardCo takes its leading health and safety system to the UK first appeared on PR.co.nz.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mana i te whenua protectors and their supporters to rally for Lake Rotokākahi

    Source: Te Whatanui Leka

    A rally is planned at Government House in Auckland for Monday the 28th of October, protesting the construction of a sewerage pipeline through a sacred site near Rotorua.

    Rotokākahi protectors and supporters will travel to the doorstep of the Governor General to demand the protection of Lake Rotokākahi.

    With the controversial project still underway, mana i te whenua are imploring the Governor General to take action.

    Rotokākahi Board of Control spokesperson Te Whatanui Leka Skipwith (Tūhourangi) explains:

    “The Governor General has administrative responsibilities over Rotokākahi under the Māori Purposes Act.”

    “But here in our struggle she has been absent.”

    Construction of the pipeline commenced on Monday 19th August, and is being carried out by Fulton Hogan on behalf of the Rotorua Lakes District Council.

    The pipeline has attracted criticism from mana i te whenua due to it being built next to Lake Rotokākahi in a location which is wāhi tapu (a sacred heritage site) and puts at risk a pristine ecological environment.

    In response, mana i te whenua have been camped at the site for a number of weeks, in what has been described as “another Ihumatao; Te Arawa’s Ihumatao.”

    As the project continues, mana whenua and supporters alike are demanding action from the Governor General.

    “We have tried to message, we have tried to call and so far there has been no response, so we are coming to your doorstep.”

    Sources:

    https://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1931/0032/latest/DLM210349.html

    https://www.teaonews.co.nz/2024/08/28/rawiri-waititi-urges-halt-to-sewerage-works-at-rotokakahi-and-mana-whenua-seek-support/

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/rotorua-protest-100-people-take-part-in-hikoi-against-sewerage-pipeline-route-past-sacred-site/LGTDHQDKWJEOFBX4UNJDEOPR54/

    https://www.nzherald.co.nz/rotorua-daily-post/news/rotorua-sewerage-pipeline-work-halted-amid-protester-concerns-over-sacred-sites/BGQ5S4ZFBZFYLEINZEIQIM7PAQ/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mindful Money – Use your KiwiSaver for climate action

    Source: Mindful Money

    On International Day of Climate Action 2024, New Zealand charity Mindful Money is calling on Kiwis to drive climate action with their investments’. Most of us want to do our bit to help avoid climate chaos. A crucial – and easy – step that Kiwis can take is to reduce the emissions that result from their KiwiSaver and other investments.

    Mindful Money is highlighting three actions that Kiwis can take to reduce the emissions financed by their investments.

    Climate action 1: Avoid funding the fossil fools

    Everyone with a KiwiSaver fund has the power to ensure their money doesn’t fuel climate change. There is over a billion dollars of KiwiSaver funds invested in hard core climate polluters that are still increasing their emissions, instead of transitioning to renewable energy.

    Mindful Money Co-CEO Barry Coates explained: “This year’s Climate Action Day comes at a time when floods, fires, lethal heat and cyclones are devastating the lives of millions of vulnerable people, and wreaking havoc on our oceans, glaciers, forests and species. Kiwis can reduce their own contribution by choosing not to invest in the companies causing the most damage.”

    The highest emissions are from the major coal, oil and gas companies that have made billions of dollars in profits while denying the problem and delaying and obstructing climate policy. A mere 57 oil, gas, coal and cement producers are directly linked to 80% of the world’s global fossil CO2 emissions since the 2015 Paris climate agreement.

    The public companies, Shell, ExxonMobil, Chevron, BP and TotalEnergies were the five largest emitters between 2016 and 2022.

    New Zealanders still invest large amounts in these fossil fools. Analysis by Mindful Money across all 376 KiwiSaver funds shows that $3.75 billion was invested in fossil fuel companies at end March 2024. More than a third of that was invested in the companies that are still expanding their production, instead of transitioning to renewable energy.

    Investors in fossil fuel expanders are also taking financial risks from future declines in demand for fossil fuels and stranded assets – the reserves and production infrastructure that will become worthless as renewable energy replaces fossil fuels.

    Barry Coates commented: “Surveys show that 71% of Kiwis want to avoid fossil fuels companies in their investment funds. But most KiwiSaver funds invest in fossil fuels, including those the companies that are still expanding their production. Everyone with a KiwiSaver or some kind of investment can play their part in cutting off investment into the worst climate polluters.”

    ACTION (estimated 15 minutes): Members of the public can go to Mindful Money’s website to find out if their KiwiSaver fund is invested in these companies. It’s quick, easy and free to check your fund, and then find a fund that is better for the climate. https://mindfulmoney.nz/kiwisaver/checker/

    Climate action 2: Don’t fall for the greenwashing

    Over half of Kiwis surveyed are concerned about greenwashing – misleading claims that companies or funds are ‘climate friendly’ or ‘green’ or ‘sustainable’. There has been growing international pressure on companies and funds that make empty promises in order to boost their profits, but little action in New Zealand.

    The EU, UK and other governments are introducing rules on green claims by companies and funds to prevent greenwashing, and regulators are taking action. The Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) has taken 47 regulatory actions against greenwashing over the past 15 months. 

    There have been three court cases including a fine of $14 million for global fund manager, Vanguard. New Zealand’s Financial Markets Authority (FMA) has repeatedly warned they will take action against misleading claims but has yet to take action. Meanwhile KiwiSaver and investment funds are still claiming green credentials while investing in the fossil fools.

    Barry Coates commented: “It is not surprising the New Zealand public is concerned about greenwashing. Most funds in New Zealand claim to use some form of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) management in their investment. But these ESG claims are not consistent with investment portfolios that contain companies destroying the world’s climate and facing huge financial risks.”

    “The New Zealand government is still failing to tackle greenwashing by the providers of KiwiSaver and other funds whose claims are not backed up by their actual investments. Investors need to take action themselves to ensure that their investments are not adding fuel to the climate fire.”

    Without government action in New Zealand, the responsibility for avoiding greenwash falls on individual investors. It is now easy for members of the public to get free information about the reality of where their money goes. Mindful Money’s website not only shows the fossil fuel investments for all KiwiSaver and investment funds, but identifies those that are still expanding their production.

    ACTION: Those with KiwiSaver and investment funds should call on their fund providers to provide evidence of their ESG or sustainability claims, including specifics about the companies they invest in. Information provided by the fund providers can be checked out with the investment listing on Mindful Money. http://www.mindfulmoney.nz/kiwisaver/checker/  

    Climate Action 3: Add your voice for change

    International cooperation in the form of a Fossil Fuel Treaty is needed to stop the major fossil fuel companies from blocking progress towards investment in renewable energy. International treaties have been developed to phase out other forms of harmful products, including landmines and nuclear weapons. The  Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty is being proposed to manage a global transition to a safe and affordable energy future for all.  It has been endorsed by 14 governments (not including New Zealand) and thousands of leaders from across civil society and local government, including Wellington City Council and Kāpiti Coast District Council.

    ACTION: Members of the public are encouraged to work with organisations, networks, faiths, academic institutions and Councils to support the treaty, and to sign the treaty themselves. https://fossilfueltreaty.org/

    Barry Coates concluded: “The Treaty is important to focus government attention on the fossil fuel industry. For the third year in a row, the next climate summit in December 2024 will be held in a country producing oil and gas (Azerbaijan). Fossil fuel lobbyists will again be given privileged access. The Fossil Fuel Treaty is a way to bring the issues of fossil fuel phaseout into the climate negotiations.”

    Notes:

    International Climate Day of Action is on Thursday 24th October. It is a time for citizens around the world to consider the actions they can take to help avoid the worsening climate crisis.

    Mindful Money’s Fund Checker enables members of the public to check the investments in their KiwiSaver and investment funds. It is quick, easy and free.
    https://mindfulmoney.nz/kiwisaver/checker/

    The research report ‘In Transition or in denial’ explains the categorisation of fossil fuel companies into those transitioning to renewable energy and those still expanding their oil and gas production. 

    https://mindfulmoney.nz/learn/fossil-fuel-investment-in-transition-or-in-denial/

    The Mindful Money Fund Finder helps members of the public to find a fund that aligns with their values. https://mindfulmoney.nz/kiwisaver/finder/

    The website provides a list of funds that do not invest in fossil fuel companieshttps://mindfulmoney.nz/invest-climate-action/fossil-free-funds/

    Research on capital expenditure by the major coal, oil and gas companies is published by the international research institute, InfluenceMap. 

    This week, a greenwashing action has been launched against the world’s largest fund manager, BlackRock. 
    The complaint to the French financial regulator shows the US investment giant’s so-called “sustainable” funds have poured over a billion dollars into fossil fuel expanders, including ExxonMobil, Shell, TotalEnergies, Chevron and BP. 

    International research shows the large passive funds that are claiming to invest sustainably are still investing in the oil and gas companies that are expanding their production. 70% of the 430 ‘sustainable’ passive funds analysed by international researcher Reclaim Finance were exposed to companies expanding their fossil fuels. These included big oil and gas developers (e.g. ExxonMobil, TotalEnergies, Shell) and big coal developers (e.g. Adani, Mitsubishi, Glencore). 
    Greenwash can take different forms. Some funds claim to be green by investing in the fossil fuel companies and then influencing them towards sustainability. 
    But the latest progress report from the umbrella engagement forum, Climate Action 100+, shows continued empty promises and little action. Only one of 37 major oil and gas companies subject to engagement is making adequate progress towards net zero. Seven years after Climate Action 100+ was formed, most of the coal, oil and gas companies are still expanding their oil and gas production instead of transitioning to renewable energy. 
    The only New Zealand case on greenwashing has been a civil case. Consumer NZ, the Environmental Law Initiative (ELI) and Lawyers for Climate Action New Zealand Inc (LCANZI) are seeking declarations from the High Court that Z Energy has breached the Fair Trading Act by misleading New Zealanders with its public messaging that it is“getting out of the petrol business” and it is “well on track to achieving [its] carbon reduction targets” when in fact its emissions have been increasing. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: CoreLogic – Investors take a fresh look at the NZ property market

    Source: CoreLogic

    Mortgaged multiple property owners (MPOs) remain less active than usual, but there are early signs that some are starting to return – a signal that ‘mum and dad’ investors might be starting to see value in the NZ property market again.

    CoreLogic’s October Housing Chart Pack shows that for the month of September, mortgaged MPOs made up 22.6% of all property purchases, up from the record low seen exactly a year ago (20.4%) and the highest seen since around the middle of 2022.
    CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said although the share of purchases going to mortgaged multiple property owners (including investors) remains low by historical standards, there have been hints over the past quarter that this group is showing renewed interest.
    “That’s likely to reflect lower mortgage rates, which are reducing the required cashflow top-ups on a typical rental property purchase, but also the reinstatement of mortgage interest deductibility and reduced deposit requirements under the LVR rules,” said Mr. Davidson, referring to changes that allow investors to claim 80% of their mortgage interest as a deductible expense for tax purposes.
    Data from the October Chart Pack also showed that gross rental yields have been trending higher – albeit slowly – as values have weakened and rents have risen.
    From a floor of 2.8% in late 2021, they now stand at 3.9%, which is the highest level since early 2016.
    Auckland and Wellington City are hovering in the 3-3.5% range, with Hamilton and Tauranga closer to 4%, and Christchurch and Dunedin a bit above 4%.
    “Even though rental yields have trended higher, they’re still quite low compared to mortgage rates, so no doubt some would-be property investors are watching and waiting for interest rates to start falling to an even more favourable level,” added Mr. Davidson. “That said, on individual deals, clearly some savvy investors will already be able to secure yields that exceed the market averages.”
    Investors on the rise again?
    He said investors are going to be a group to watch in 2025 as rates are expected to keep falling.
    “We estimate that a ‘typical’ mortgage rate of around 5.5% could start to entice growing numbers of investors back to the market, but that’s also potentially a rate at which debt-to-income ratio limits might start to have a more noticeable impact.”
    “It remains to be seen what the net impact will be. Of course, whatever trade-offs investors might face in terms of lower funding costs but tougher credit rules, the exemption from the DTIs for new-builds could continue to make them a very strong option for would-be buyers.”
     
    October Housing Chart Pack highlights:

    New Zealand’s residential real estate market is worth a combined $1.61 trillion.

    The CoreLogic Home Value Index (HVI) fell by a further 0.5% in September, the seventh decline in a row, taking the drop from February’s ‘mini peak’ to almost 5%. 
    Auckland fell again in September, and alongside Wellington, it has seen values drop by more than 3% since June. By contrast, Christchurch and Dunedin are proving a little more resilient.
    Values dipped by 1.2% in the year to September, with the small upturn in late 2023 now close to being reversed. Taking the three months to September combined, there was a 2.4% drop in median property values across NZ.
    Falls from the peak are now sitting at nearly 18% nationally, with some areas significantly larger.
    National rental growth has settled into a more subdued phase, and was 1.2% in the year to September, which is comfortably below the long-term average of 3.2%.
    Over the past 2-3 years, gross rental yields have been trending slowly higher, as values have weakened and rents have risen. From a floor of 2.8% in late 2021, they now stand at 3.9%.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police deliver clear message to gangs

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Today, Police dealt a significant blow to the Mongrel Mob Barbarians in Opotiki with the execution of over thirty search warrants across the North Island, and sent a clear message that the misery and violence that they cause will not be tolerated, says Police Minister Mark Mitchell.

    “I want to thank the police officers involved for the outstanding work that has led to today’s arrests, seizure of property and drugs as part of Operation Highwater, a 10-month investigation in response to violent crime and offending in the town.   

    “Towns like Opotiki suffer heavily from the drugs and misery that gangs peddle– especially when children and schools are targeted for distribution. 

    “They also suffer from the senseless violence and besieging of towns and communities, that Police say has been stopped in its tracks by the operation today.

    “I want to reiterate Superintendent Tim Anderson’s message for gangs: Police will find you and hold you accountable for your destructive behaviour. They will continue to relentlessly pursue criminals who prey on our communities and cause a huge amount of harm and misery.

    “The operations this morning come the day after Police stood up their Gang Disruption Unit in the Bay of Plenty. That unit has continued this afternoon to target and harass gang members across the district, a clear example of how effective these disruption units are.

    “Gang members cause significant and disproportionate harm to Kiwis, and by focusing resources on them Police will continue to disrupt criminal activity and prevent the harm it causes in our communities.  

    “From 21 November, the Gang Disruption Units will be significantly powered up with the Government’s new tools to get rid of gang patches, disperse gang gatherings and prevent known gang members consorting to commit crime.

    “The Government is committed to restoring law and order and today’s operation marks a turning point in getting that job done.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rob Roy Glacier bridge open again

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  23 October 2024

    DOC Operations Manager Charlie Sklenar says this is fantastic news ahead of summer.

    “Rob Roy is a popular area of Tititea/Mt Aspiring National Park and sees a huge number of visitors, especially during the summer months.

    Rob Roy suspension bridge
    Image: DOC

    “Engineering advice sought by DOC last year showed both Rob Roy and Blue Pools bridges could not sustain their current usage, and the Makarora River suspension bridge needed to be fully replaced.

    “For the Rob Roy Glacier Track, visitor numbers were projected to increase from their previous daily averages of 180 people. As a result, a safety assessment was made which led to the decision to upgrade the bridge.”

    Work to upgrade the Rob Roy suspension bridge included in-depth engineering, geotechnical and design assessments, complex rock drilling and structural work to improve the bridge’s ability to bear weight.

    “Engineers have now inspected the completed bridge work and with all testing successfully certified late last week, we are happy to say the bridge is now open again to the public.

    “Our field team has now removed the closure signage, and the DOC website has been updated to show that the track has reopened.

    “We know people will take the opportunity to make the most of the Rob Roy Track and its upgraded bridge, and we’re looking forward to a great summer,” says Charlie.

    Construction work on the Blue Pools and Makarora River bridges and replacement of the raised timber boardwalk connecting these two bridges is ongoing. Some delays have been experienced due to severe weather in previous months. These delays will unfortunately extend the closure period for this site; however, DOC remains committed to reopening it this summer.

    Background information

    The Makarora and Blue Pools bridges provide high-water access to the Young Valley and Gillespie Pass Circuit. Trampers should have river crossing skills and experience if they are undertaking this advanced tramp.

    Do not cross if the river is flooded, you cannot find safe entry and exit points or are unsure it’s safe. Turn back or wait for the river to drop. If in doubt, stay out.

    There is no access to the Blue Pools, however a shortened forest walk remains open. 

    Note: There are public conservation areas across the region that remain under snow and at risk of avalanche. With Labour Day fast approaching, trampers and adventurers are recommended to check the conditions before they head out.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Funding boost for Hato Hone St John

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Minister of Health Casey Costello and Minister for ACC Matt Doocey have announced today that the Government has invested over $21 million in additional funding into Hato Hone St John.

    “Hato Hone St John provides an essential service by ensuring people receive timely treatment in an emergency. This is a significant uplift in a constrained financial environment,” says Ms Costello.

    Health New Zealand and ACC will now jointly provide nearly $357 million of funding to Hato Hone St John in the financial year 2024/25 for emergency road ambulance and communication services.

    “This investment will ensure the ongoing delivery of the Hato Hone St John’s emergency road ambulance service. We know that adequate funding of our road ambulance services is essential to ensuring New Zealanders have access to emergency health care,” Mr Doocey says.

    “I am also pleased to see that negotiations with Hato Hone St John’s unions have been settled,” says Ms Costello.

    “We know Health NZ and ACC have worked closely with Hato Hone St John to minimise disruption and ensure essential services remain available.”

    Hato Hone St John has confirmed no further industrial action that would disrupt road ambulance services.   

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 Southern Motorway CLOSED southbound at Penrose Rd overbridge

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises State Highway 1 Southern Motorway is closed to southbound traffic between the Ellerslie Panmure Highway and the South Eastern Highway due to a serious incident.

    Emergency services are in attendance and the road is likely to be closed for some time. People are encouraged to delay their travel, where possible, or allow extra time for their journeys using alternative routes. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website for up-to-date information on the closure.

    journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Open work rights return for partners of high skilled migrants

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is ensuring New Zealand attracts and retains the workers and skills it needs by returning open work rights to partners of high-skilled migrants.

    “We are committed to growing the economy and our immigration system is critical to that. From 2 December, open work rights will be available to partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) holders working in higher-skilled roles who earn at least 80 percent of the median wage,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says.

    The same rights will also be available for partners of AEWV holders working in lower-skilled roles who are on a pathway to residence. The changes deliver on the coalition commitment between National and ACT to make it easier for family members of visa holders to work here. 

    “The previous Government’s decision to restrict the settings caused enormous distress amongst our migrant communities. We want high-skilled migrants to see New Zealand as an attractive and supportive place to move with their families. We need to build capacity in sectors facing skills shortages, like healthcare and education. 

    “I want a system that creates opportunities for people to come here and make a meaningful contribution, but also protects New Zealanders rights to work and thrive,” Ms Stanford says.

    “The improvements we are making in immigration are restoring balance to the system, ensuring we are well-positioned to continue rebuilding the economy.”

    Note for editors: 

    • Higher-skilled roles are defined as those at levels one to three of the Australia New Zealand System of Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), while lower-skilled roles are defined as those at levels four and five of ANZSCO.
    • People who already hold work visas allowing for specific employment will be able to apply for a variation of their visa conditions.

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government reduces Forestry ETS annual charge by 50 per cent

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has today started consultation on a 50 per cent reduction to the annual charge for forest owners participating in the Forestry Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Registry, Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced.

    “Following an independent review released last week we are proposing to lower the per-hectare annual charge to $14.90. 

    “This is a 50 per cent reduction from Labour’s excessive charge announced just before the election of $30.25 per hectare per year.

    “It’s now clear that the previous Labour government made a number of decisions that drove up the cost of this Registry and they expected the forestry sector to pay for their mistakes. Cabinet has agreed that the sector should not bear the brunt of Labour’s previous decisions,” Mr McClay says.

    “The Ministry for Primary Industries has worked hard to find efficiencies and drive down costs over the last 10 months.  We’ve also been focused on improving service delivery to ensure the Registry meets the expectations of forestry users. As a result the annual charge has reduced significantly. 

    “Last week, we announced the formation of a Forestry Sector Reference Group to further improve outcomes for the ETS Registry and find greater cost savings over the next year. This is an opportunity for the forestry sector and government to partner to drive better outcomes for forestry.”

    The new annual charge would begin in the 2024/25 financial year and stay in place until a full review is conducted after the current emissions reporting period.

    “This proposal is part of the Government’s promise to rebuild confidence in the forestry sector and support its role in achieving New Zealand’s exporting and emissions targets.”

    Consultation on the new annual charge starts today (23 October 2024) and runs for three weeks. It covers the reduced annual charge and adjustments to the Climate Change (Forestry) Regulations 2022 for participants using the field measurement approach during the 2023–25 period.

    Following consultation, Cabinet will move quickly to finalise the regulations, giving participants clarity and certainty on charges. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest made involving funeral home investigation

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police investigating concerns around burials at Waikumete Cemetery have made an arrest.

    Auckland’s Criminal Investigation Branch has been investigating the matter since the beginning of August 2024.

    Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin, of Auckland City CIB, says a 48-year-old woman was taken into custody yesterday.

    “The woman was arrested in Favona and has since been charged with misconduct in respect of human remains and nine counts of obtaining by deception.

    “She is scheduled to appear in the Auckland District Court on Friday 25 October.”

    Detective Inspector Baldwin says the arrest is a significant development in the investigation, which is continuing. 

    “We cannot rule out further charges and hope this arrest brings some reassurance to those affected by this woman’s offending.”

    As the matter is now before the court, Police are limited in providing further comment.

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Significant environmental offences deliver hefty fine for contractor

    Source: Auckland Council

    In a reserved decision handed down in the Auckland District Court last Friday (18 October), contractor Prameet Sharma was fined $144,500 and ordered $11,575 in reparations for extensive violations of the Resource Management Act (RMA), involving illegal earthworks and environmental contamination at his Drury property at Judge Richardson Drive, Drury.

    Sharma was convicted on three charges, including breaching an abatement notice, depositing contaminated fill, and conducting unauthorised earthworks exceeding legal limits.

    The fine is the largest handed down to an individual in recent years for breaches of the RMA.

    Serious environmental harm

    Judge Semple, referencing a report that found hazardous materials including asbestos, arsenic, and lead in the fill deposited by Sharma, described the environmental harm as significant and long-lasting, and the effects of the offending on the environment as serious.

    “Even once remediated, the site will remain a HAIL (Hazardous Activities and Industries List) site with ‘no build’ areas, which is a significant consequence of Mr Sharma’s actions.”

    The court heard that between 2015 and 2022, Sharma allowed illegal earthworks on his property, depositing over 33,900 cubic metres of contaminated fill, far exceeding the permitted consented limit of 5,000 cubic metres.

    The fill, which included asbestos and other harmful materials, was found to have travelled onto neighbouring properties, causing land instability and damaging ecosystems.

    Reckless and prolonged breach

    Judge Semple emphasised Sharma’s culpability, noting he ignored repeated warnings and enforcement actions from Auckland Council.

    “Mr. Sharma was alerted to issues with the volume and placement of fill as early as 2015.

    “Despite receiving abatement and infringement notices, Mr Sharma continued illegal activity. His disregard for the legal process and expert advice resulted in long-term environmental damage.”

    The judge rejected claims Sharma was merely trying to resolve issues arising from the council’s changing parameters.

    “I find limited evidence to support this assertion,” said Judge Semple. She noted Sharma refused to comply with council directives and acted with a high level of culpability. “Mr Sharma chose to continue undertaking earthworks in breach of his consent.”

    Public deterrence

    Auckland Council’s Team Leader Investigations David Pawson was happy with the outcome.

    “The court ruling marks a strong stance in upholding the integrity of environmental laws and sends a clear message to the public regarding the consequences of non-compliance.

    “The decision highlights the importance of holding an offender accountable to prevent similar violations in the future.”

    Failure to remediate

    The court ruled out a discharge without conviction, finding the seriousness of the offences and their ongoing impacts warranted a significant penalty.

    While the court acknowledged enforcement orders were issued to Sharma in 2024, Judge Semple noted no remediation had taken place despite these orders and refused to grant credit for remediation work, stating that returning the land to a compliant state is the bare minimum requirement.

    Final orders

    In addition to the $144,500 fine, Mr Sharma has been ordered to pay $11,575 in reparations to his neighbour, whose property was damaged due to the migration of contaminated fill.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government to overhaul anti-money laundering regime

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will introduce a single supervisor and a new funding model in a major overhaul of New Zealand’s Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) system, Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee says.

    “Cabinet has approved an AML/CFT reform work programme which will change the supervisor structure that monitors AML/CFT compliance and introduce a new funding model for the system. These reforms will allow the system to be more responsive to industry and community needs, more agile, and more focused on the real risks posed by anti-money laundering to New Zealand businesses.

    “The changes will deliver a critical Government priority to reform key sectors where the cost of regulation is overly burdensome for businesses and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the AML/CFT system to meet international standards.”

    The Government is introducing the changes following a Financial Action Task Force evaluation of New Zealand’s regulatory regime and a subsequent review of the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter Financing of Terrorism Act 2009.

    A single-supervisor model will replace the current three-supervisor model and will establish the Department of Internal Affairs as the sole supervisor of the AML/CFT system.  Currently, supervision of different parts of the AML/CFT system are overseen by the Reserve Bank, Financial Markets Authority, and Internal Affairs.

    “The Government is very aware of the risks money-laundering and financing of terrorism poses to New Zealand businesses and moving to a single supervisor will improve the efficiency of the system, establish a more risk-based approach, and enable more timely provision of guidance and support. I have heard from businesses that this will provide substantive regulatory relief,” Mrs McKee says. 

    “In considering how to improve the supervisory model, I will be focusing on how the positive effects can be felt as soon as possible, such as ensuring work on industry guidance and codes of practice starts promptly.”

    “The Government will also introduce a new sustainable funding model for the AML/CFT system as part of the reforms. The funding model will establish an industry-levy to support a flexible and coordinated system that will deliver sector benefits. The levy will be designed to ensure that costs are equitable and reasonable for the sector and will not place undue burden on small businesses.” 

    An AML/CFT National Strategy and work programme will be introduced as part of the funding model. Legislation will require any amendments to the levy to be informed by the National Strategy and work programme. 

    “This work programme will be developed in partnership with industry and agreed by Cabinet to ensure that the AML/CFT system is focussed on industry priorities. The new funding model will mean better and more efficient regulation, supervision, and support for industry.

    “The changes will ensure New Zealand maintains its international reputation and will align our AML/CFT system with the financial sectors of our key trading partners to support trade, investment and economic growth.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Resetting the Emissions Trading Scheme annual charge for post-1989 forestry participants

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Your views sought

    We want your feedback on 2 proposals relating to cost recovery settings for forestry Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) participants. We anticipate that changes would be made by early 2025.

    • Proposal 1: A reduced annual charge for post-1989 forestry ETS participants.
    • Proposal 2: Amending the Climate Change (Forestry) Regulations 2022 for the field measurement approach during the 2023–25 reporting period.

    As part of this consultation, we are holding 2 webinars and an online hui.

    Summaries of the proposals are on this page and full details are in the discussion paper.

    Submissions are open from 23 October until 5pm on 13 November 2024.

    About Proposal 1

    If you have post-1989 forest land in the ETS, the per hectare annual charge is calculated for the financial year. It’s based on the amount of land you have in the ETS on 1 July.

    We are proposing to reduce the per hectare annual charge from $30.25 to $14.90, starting in the 2024–25 financial year.

    About Proposal 2

    Forestry participants with at least 100 hectares of post-1989 forest land in the ETS have to use the field measurement approach to calculate carbon stored in their forests for their emissions returns.

    When the previous (2023) cost recovery regulations were enacted, they imposed a service fee. The fee resulted in additional costs for those who could use their existing field measurement approach data or use default carbon tables to calculate carbon stock, during the shorter 2023–25 reporting period.

    To address this issue, we are proposing to update the regulations. This means, that for any emissions return that covers all or part of the shorter 2023–25 reporting period, people using the field measurement approach can calculate carbon stock using:

    • the default carbon tables (in regulations) if they do not have field measurement approach participant specific tables, or
    • existing participant specific tables if they have them.

    Discussion paper

    Resetting the Emissions Trading Scheme annual charge for post-1989 forestry participants [doc: 65715]

    Webinars on the proposals

    To support this consultation, we are running 2 webinars and an online hui. These sessions will provide an opportunity for you to ask questions and discuss the proposals. The online hui is a dedicated session for whenua Māori to give feedback on the proposals. You must register to attend the webinars or hui. 

    Times and dates of the webinars and the hui

    Webinar 1: 4pm on Thursday 31 October 2024.

    Register to attend Webinar 1 – Connect

    Webinar 2: 12pm on Thursday 7 November 2024.

    Register to attend Webinar 2 – Connect

    Online hui: 12pm on Monday 4 November 2024.

    Register to attend the online hui – Connect

    Making your submission

    Send us your feedback on the proposals in the consultation document by 5pm on 13 November 2024.

    We would prefer if you made a submission electronically – either by using the online form or by email. However, we will also accept written submissions sent by post.

    You are welcome to make your submission on the whole discussion document, or you can choose the areas relevant to you. Provide supporting evidence with your submission where possible.

    Online

    Online submission form – Alchemer

    Email

    If you are sending us a submission by email, we encourage you to use the submission template which has the same questions as the online form. 

    Submission template [doc: 65718]

    The email address is etsforestrychanges@mpi.govt.nz

    Post

    If you prefer to make your submission in writing, send it to:

    NZ ETS Cost Recovery
    Forestry System Directorate
    Ministry for Primary Industries
    PO Box 2526
    Wellington 6140.

    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: NZ joins UK initiative for AI safety

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is joining the UK’s Bletchley Declaration on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Safety, Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, and for Digitising Government Judith Collins says.

    “AI used responsibly can be a game changer for New Zealand, supporting productivity, innovation, and economic development,” Ms Collins says

    “The UK’s Bletchley Declaration is an important international agreement which affirms the potential that AI offers for society and for economies. To achieve this, AI must be designed, developed, deployed and used responsibly and safely, and in a manner that is people-focused and can be trusted. 

    “In May we signed the Seoul Ministerial Statement for Advancing AI Safety which, coupled with the Bletchley Declaration and Cabinet’s confirmed approach to AI being in accordance with the OECD’s AI Principles, solidifies our focus on the responsible use of AI.   

    “Important safety standards and pressure will be applied on the international stage, and New Zealand is proud to be part of global efforts towards responsible AI.” 

    The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has developed an initial cross-portfolio which focuses on policy changes, while the Department of Internal Affairs’ Government Chief Digital Officer is leading work to support public sector agencies to explore safe use of AI for efficiency and service delivery improvements.  

    “The Government will next year consult publicly on a national AI strategy to encourage greater use of AI to deliver better results for New Zealanders,” Ms Collins says.

    “I am confident that all the work under way will form a coherent approach to AI in New Zealand – delivering greater productivity, innovation and growing New Zealand’s economy to benefit all New Zealanders,” Ms Collins says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police Perpetuate Siege on Ōpōtiki

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Te Pāti Māori MP for Waiariki, Rawiri Waititi, says today’s police-sponsored terrorism in Ōpōtiki is a continuation of the State’s predatory behaviour towards the iwi of Te Whakatōhea.

    “Ōpōtiki is once again being intentionally targeted and is the direct byproduct of this Government’s ‘tough on crime’ legislative changes,” said MP for Waiariki, Rawiri Waititi.

    “This predatory action only exacerbates the broken relationship between Te Whakatōhea and authorities, which has been strained for centuries, ever since the death of Rev. Carl Sylvius Völkner in 1865.

    “Violating whānau in their own homes on a hunch, and then throwing our people into this racist system, will do nothing to address the systemic issues created by this and successive Governments.

    “In anticipation of what we know will be yet another empty apology from the Government this week, we recognise these targeted attacks as merely doubling down on this Government’s racist agenda to exterminate our people.”

    “I demand that the Police Commissioner immediately convene a meeting with Te Whakatōhea and explain why the police have chosen to activate their state-sponsored terrorism in Ōpōtiki today, when te iwi Māori converges on Tuahiwi Marae in Ōtautahi for the hui ā-motu that empowers te iwi Māori to move towards our own nationalism and liberation from this oppressive Pākehā system.

    “Ōpōtiki needs stability, support, and meaningful community intervention, rather than actions that incite fear and division. It doesn’t need the state to continuously torment them,” said Waititi.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ACT welcomes commonsense change in work rights for migrant families

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT’s Immigration spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar is welcoming today’s announcement that the Government intends to restore open work rights to the partners of skilled migrants, delivering on an ACT coalition commitment.

    “Migrants are vital to address skill shortages in New Zealand,” says Dr Parmar.

    “It never made sense to allow the partners of visa holders to be in New Zealand, consume services, and yet be banned from working and paying taxes.

    “Today’s change is common sense, effectively lifting a ban contributing to New Zealand – something most migrants would be more than happy to do.

    “We saw what happened when our borders were sealed shut. Businesses went to the wall, fruit was left to rot on the ground, the health system struggled to keep up with demand, and families were separated.

    “But many were at risk of leaving due to unworkable rules requiring the partners of Accredited Employer Work Visa holders to also work for accredited employers and be paid the median wage. Making New Zealand a much less attractive place for migrants to live and work.

    “This concern has been raised with me by businesses who are at risk of losing valuable staff. The uncertainty and distress this has caused for migrants and their families has been immense. I am relieved this issue is finally being resolved.

    “ACT’s coalition agreement included a commitment to ‘liberalise the rules to make it easier for family members of visa holders to work in New Zealand, beginning with Skilled Migrant Category visa holders’.

    “We are encouraged by this progress and are eager to see further improvements to our immigration settings to fulfil ACT’s coalition commitments and make our country the preferred destination for ideas, talent and investment.

    “In particular, we look forward to introducing a five year, renewable parent category visa, conditional on that person’s healthcare costs being covered. This will help attract and retain migrants to ensure New Zealand has a competitive edge in the global war for talent. Doing right by migrants does not have to come at the cost of New Zealand’s own standard of living.

    “Labour wrecked the economy and made a complete hash of immigration. ACT is determined to ensure that immigration policy is simple to navigate and welcoming so that migrants can reunite with their families, the economy can grow and more locals can be employed through job creation and investment.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sanctions Soar, Jobs Vanish – National’s Cruelty Exposed

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Te Pāti Māori is enraged at the National government’s ruthless punishment of beneficiaries, all while jobs are disappearing.

    MSD data shows a 133% increase in sanctions over the past year, with over 14,000 sanctions in just three months. The kicker? The jobs this government insists people should find are nowhere to be seen.

    “The traffic light system is a dead end, a road to nowhere, a tool designed to punish whānau for not finding jobs the government itself has destroyed,” says Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.

    “Instead of supporting people, they’re kicking them while they’re down. It’s cruelty masquerading as policy.”

    Since taking office, National has slashed more than 7,000 public sector jobs, then turned around to punish people for being out of work.

    “They’ve gutted the job market and then punished whānau for failing to find phantom jobs,” said co-leader Rawiri Waititi.

    “This isn’t incompetence—it’s a deliberate attack on our people. They’ve built a system designed to fail, and they’re celebrating the suffering they’ve caused.

    Te Pāti Māori has the solutions. Our policies will restore dignity and opportunity. We will scrap benefit sanctions and ensure everybody is paid enough to live with dignity, whether they are in employment or not. We will invest in job creation and retraining programmes.

    “While National is pushing whānau deeper into poverty, we offer a path out. Our solutions will allow whānau to thrive, not just survive,” says Ngarewa-Packer.

    “Beneficiaries are being sanctioned for missing appointments they can’t afford to attend because they don’t have bus fare,” adds Waititi.

    “They tout rising sanctions as success, but what they’re really celebrating is hungry children, struggling families, and people forced into desperation. Calling that a ‘win’ is beyond disgraceful.”

    Te Pāti Māori will be demanding an urgent meeting with the Prime Minister to put an end to this failing system.

    “We will not stand by and watch as this government destroys our whānau,” says Ngarewa-Packer.

    “If they refuse to meet, they are turning their backs on the people. We will hold them to account—in the House and in the streets.”

    “This isn’t just about sanctions—it’s about the destruction of our people’s ability to put food on the table without Big Brother looking over their shoulder,” said Waititi.

    “If this government can’t see how this disproportionately impacts Māori, then they have gone blind in their ivory tower.”

    Te Pāti Māori will fight to end this cruelty and rebuild a system that empowers, supports, and uplifts our people.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 Karāpiro barrier repairs tomorrow night

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    Road users will experience delays on State Highway 1 (SH1) at Karāpiro tomorrow night (Thursday 24th October) while contractors carry out urgent repairs to damaged median barriers.

    Approximately 56 posts have been damaged recently, resulting in 300m of un-tensioned wire. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) wants the barriers repaired ahead of the long weekend. Slow and controlled moving traffic management will be in place from 9pm for around 4 hours to enable contractors to carry out the work safely, which will result in approximately 20 minute delays for drivers.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Overnight closure on stretch of HB Expressway tonight

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    A stretch of State Highway 2 / Hawke’s Bay Expressway will close overnight tonight for repairs to guardrail and flexible barriers.

    The expressway will close between the Pākowhai/Links Road and Evenden Road roundabouts from 8pm tonight and reopen at 5am on Thursday.

    Northbound road users will be detoured onto Evenden Road and left onto Pākowhai before rejoining the expressway.

    The reverse will apply for southbound road users.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi acknowledges the closure is short notice and is confident the overnight closure will minimise disruption to commuter traffic.

    NZTA advises road users to plan their journey accordingly and thanks people for taking the detour.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Overnight closures SH6/High St through Greymouth coming up

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Greymouth residents, road users and people travelling through the town after 8 pm at night will face local road detours from Sunday, 3 November.  (The weekend after Labour Weekend).

    Access will be restored by 5am the next morning again, with more night closures through until Thursday morning, 14 November.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is asphalting sections of SH6/High St through central Greymouth between Franklin St and the Marlborough Street roundabout.

    Access will be available for residents and emergency vehicles, with everyone else detoured onto local roads.

    How will I get across Greymouth?
    Other road users, including heavy vehicle drivers/ 50MAX and HPMV, will be able to follow signed, well-marked detours via Grey District Council roads.

    The closures are weather dependent and may be rescheduled if it is wet.

    Check Journey Planner for exact closure locations. 

    journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link) 

    “Thanks to all residents and locals for your patience while this essential summer sealing work is underway,” says Moira Whinham, Maintenance Contract Manager for NZTA on the West Coast.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stretch of SH51 currently closed

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    A stretch of State Highway 51 is closed while a neighbouring factory fire is brought under control.

    SH51 between Awatoto Road and Farndon Road in Clive is closed after debris from the fire fell onto the road.

    Both lanes are currently closed.

    Southbound road users are being detoured right onto Awatoto Road at the roundabout, onto Meeanee Road and onto Hawke’s Bay Expressway. Northbound road users will be detoured onto Farndon Road, Pākowhai Road and onto Hawke’s Bay Expressway.

    Please drive to the conditions, expect delays and follow the directions of emergency crews on site.

    Our crews are currently onsite clearing the debris.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Teachers stand up for public education on nationwide day of action

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    Teachers, support staff, and school and centre leaders are committed to continuing to improve the education system to realise the promises of Te Tiriti and deliver equity of learning opportunities for all.

    “The government’s repeal of the Fair Pay Agreements Act leaves teachers and other workers in early childhood centres worse off. It was a lost opportunity to affect positive change for common wages and conditions across the early childhood sector for kaiako and kaimahi. We will continue the fight to ensure early childhood education teachers are properly valued”, says NZEI Te Riu Roa President, Mark Potter.

    A Cabinet paper revealed that the move would disproportionately affect women, Māori and Pasifika, and young people – all groups which are over-represented in early childhood education (ECE), where Fair Pay Agreement (FPA) bargaining had been approved.

    David Seymour’s charter school project will see hundreds of millions of dollars diverted away from public education. Mr Potter says, “the refusal to invest more in public services means many children are on long waitlists and are not getting the learning support they need. The hundreds of millions of dollars earmarked for charter schools means less money for in-class support such as teacher aides and learning support specialists, alternative education and attendance supports for students.”

    “These are proven ways to support students to learn and teachers to teach, and not investing in them is at odds with the government’s wider goal of lifting student achievement and attendance, says Chris Abercrombie, PPTA Te Wehengarua president.

    “Getting students back to school is just the start – you have to also make sure they will stay there. Schools desperately need a meaningful increase in resourcing to engage students in alternative, vocational or adapted education programmes to support those with chronic attendance issues to reengage with school.”

    Mark Potter says, “Teachers will continue to uphold te reo as a tāonga in their classrooms in spite of the Minister of Education’s decision to cut $30 million from Te Ahu o te reo Māori, a programme which develops teacher competency in te reo.”

    Chris Abercrombie says, “The programme has helped both Māori and Pākehā kaiako and ākonga flourish in the reo and understanding of tikanga and te ao Māori. I speak to teachers and principals around the motu, and they say it’s helped boost their language confidence and proficiency, as well as challenging them. Our education system and our country are better off for being bilingual.”

    “We urge the government to get public education back on track and ensure every tamariki and rangatahi in Aotearoa New Zealand can experience the quality teaching and learning they deserve.”

    Note: On 23 October the NZCTU are hosting hui across the country to fight back against the Government’s ongoing attacks on workers’ rights.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Coalition Government’s reforms give workers the best chance to succeed and prosper

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden responds to NZCTU’s protest across the country and says this Government is delivering for all workers, including the over 85 percent of New Zealand’s labour force who are not union members.

    “This coalition Government is focused on delivering for all hardworking New Zealanders as we continue to get spending under control, lift the country’s productivity and economic growth and deliver more efficient and effective public services,” says Ms van Velden.

    “In my own portfolio, I’ve been focused on getting the labour market settings right in order to ensure New Zealanders have access to more and better jobs,” says Ms van Velden.

    “At the beginning of my term this Government moved at pace to remove the Fair Pay Agreement legislation before any fair pay agreements were finalised and the negative impacts would have been felt by the labour market. Rather than helping employees, Fair Pay Agreements would have made life harder for businesses, making them more hesitant to employ people, and may have even resulted in business closure.

    “This Government also worked quickly to ensure that New Zealanders have access to more job opportunities, by extending the availability of 90-day trials. This allows employers to take on someone who might not tick all the boxes in terms of skills and experience but who has the right attitude, without the risk of a costly dismissal process.

    “Recently, I announced changes that would ensure workers could have certainty that they will continue to have access to contracting as a working arrangement and will have access to greater protections as well. The gateway contracting test achieves the best of all worlds: it gives businesses greater certainty to utilise contracting arrangements, but also improves the rights of workers by requiring there to be a written agreement and ensuring the characteristics of the work reflect a genuine contracting arrangement.

    “While I have not made any policy announcements yet, I expect the work I am doing to reform health and safety will create an environment where businesses and organisations can confidently address the things that cause workers harm. Workers and businesses should not be tripped up by unnecessary steps or trying to interpret and navigate complex or confusing rules and regulations.

    “Beyond my Workplace Relations and Safety portfolio, the coalition Government is delivering for workers across the board. That includes reducing inflation to ease the cost of living, delivering tax relief so that New Zealanders can enjoy the fruits of their hard work

    “New Zealanders elected a Government that would get government spending under control and deliver more efficient and effective public services. We make no apologies for starting to put things right.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: General electorates down by one, number of Māori electorates stays at seven – Stats NZ media and information release: Number of electorates and electoral populations: 2023 Census

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    General electorates down by one, number of Māori electorates stays at seven – 23 October 2024 – Aotearoa New Zealand has 120 parliamentary seats. These are made up of general electorate, Māori electorate, and list seats.

    The number of general electorates in Aotearoa New Zealand will decrease from 65 to 64 at the next general election. There is no change to the number of Māori electorates, which remains at seven, Stats NZ said today.

    The number of electorates in the North Island will decrease by one from 49 to 48.

    “This means there will be one more list seat in a 120-member Parliament,” acting deputy government statistician Kathy Connolly said.

    Data from the 2023 Census and Māori Electoral Option was used to determine these results.

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