NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Govt Funding – Funding hike shows benefit of collective voice for general practice

    Source: GenPro

    A potential 13 percent increase in funding for general practice shows the benefit of a strong collective voice that supports family doctors and face-to-face consultations in our communities, says GenPro Chair Dr Angus Chambers.

    The government announced today a 6.4 percent increase for general practice funding to reflect increasing costs, an uplift additional to a previously announced $95 million boost.

    “Combining these would contribute a nine percent uplift in base capitation funding (with conditions) and an up to 13 percent total funding increase in the year ending June 2026, a level that is welcome and will help ‘steady the ship’,” says Dr Chambers.

    “While not all general practice can access the $95 million, the overall increase is a marked improvement from previous years.

    “It shows the Government is listening to GenPro, which called before the Budget for a minimum 10 percent increase to stabilise the viability of family doctors so they could continue to operate.

    “Hon Simeon Brown is the first health minister in successive governments to have delivered a much-needed increase in funding, and we thank him for it.”

    However, after years of under investment by successive governments, general practice will need another 10 percent or more increase in investment next year for it to stay viable, warns Dr Chambers.

    “While the increase announced today will aid retention it will do nothing to encourage recruitment of new general practitioners. This will require long-term solutions with greater support than that offered today
    .
    “To put the funding boost into context, general practice will receive about $1.5 billion or just five percent of the $31 billion health budget. A 10 percent uplift was urgently required for 2025/26 just to catch up and maintain existing services, and more investment will be needed in later years.”

    Dr Chambers said the investment recognised the collective advocacy by GenPro members, who are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand.

    For more information visit  www.genpro.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Māori Organisations Condemn Destiny Church’s Attacks on Faith-based Communities

    Source: Toitū Te Tiriti and Kaiāwhina Aotearoa


    Toitū Te Tiriti and Kaiāwhina Aotearoa unequivocally condemn the abhorrent actions of Destiny Church targeting faith communities in Tāmaki Makaurau on Saturday, 21 June. 

    “This was not a protest. It was a calculated media stunt that caused harm to many communities across Aotearoa,” stated Arama Rata, spokesperson for Kaiāwhina – a group that provides community care at protests in Tāmaki Makaurau.

    On Saturday afternoon, Destiny Church members marched down Queen Street, led by Brian Tamaki. During the march, Destiny affiliates desecrated flags representing Buddhist, Sikh, Muslim, Palestinian and Rainbow communities, while spouting hateful rhetoric and performing haka.

    Spokesperson for Toitū Te Tiriti Eru Kapa-Kingi criticised the action stating “this action was not rooted in our tikanga,” as, “haka should not be misused to disrespect and attack others – all peoples have mana and tapu.”

    “The leaders of Destiny should be ashamed in using whānau who are still finding themselves to push their own hate politics” Eru also said. 

    Public displays of vitriol are known to create the conditions for physical violence. The Royal Commission into the March 15 terror attacks warned explicitly about this trajectory. “When communities are openly targeted in this way in our streets, it demands our immediate action,” Rata stated.

    She continued, “We reject the actions of Destiny Church. They do not represent Māori. Brian Tamaki’s stated goal to rule New Zealand as the head of Christian nationalist state is fundamentally opposed to our Māori liberation movement, and should not be tolerated.”

    Kapa-Kingi concluded, “During the Hīkoi Mō Te Tiriti, we were honoured to march side by side with Tangata Tiriti of all faiths who came to show their support for Māori and to honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi. To our whānau who are Muslim, Buddhist, Sikh, Hindu, Palestinian, Rainbow and Takatāpui, we see you and commit to standing by you against violence.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – Brand new Stats NZ groundwater reporting highlights serious risk to public from Govt proposal to weaken freshwater protections

    Source: Choose Clean Water – Tom Kay


    Stats NZ’s latest groundwater reporting shows New Zealanders are already at risk from contaminated drinking water sources and highlights the threat to the public should the Government continue with its proposals to weaken policy that protects freshwater, says campaign group Choose Clean Water.


    “The Government is consulting on plans to remove the prioritisation of the health of waterways and protection of drinking water sources in current freshwater policy and instead change it to give power to commercial polluters of freshwater. 


    “Given the state of our groundwater, where many of our communities draw their drinking water from, this Government proposal will inevitably increase the health risks to people. It’s unbelievably irresponsible.” says Choose Clean Water spokesperson Tom Kay.


    The new Stats NZ groundwater quality reporting presents monitoring data for groundwater sites across the country between 2019 and 2024. It shows the Maximum Allowable Values for New Zealand drinking water were exceeded at least once between April 2019 and March 2024 at 45.1 percent of sites (450 of 998) for E. coli and 12.4 percent of sites (146 of 1173) for nitrate. 

    Almost half of the monitoring sites show likely or very likely increasing tr

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Federated Farmers call on Minister Watts to rule out yet another tax

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers is calling on the Revenue Minister to rule out yet another tax, this time a controversial Inland Revenue proposal hitting the not-for-profit sector.
    Under the proposal, organisations like Federated Farmers would be taxed on their membership subscription income for the first time.
    “We’re calling on Simon Watts to move quickly and categorically take this off the table,” Federated Farmers board member Richard McIntyre says.
    “This is not a routine tax consultation – this is a significant new interpretation that overturns 20 years of settled practice.”
    Ideally, Inland Revenue would withdraw its draft interpretation but, failing that, the Minister must step in, McIntyre says.
    “This isn’t a minor tweak – it’s a fundamental shift in how the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) interprets the law.
    “It would have serious consequences for New Zealand’s not-for-profit sector.”
    Under current practice, not-for-profits structured as mutual associations – organisations set up to serve their members rather than make a profit – aren’t taxed on income they receive from members.
    This principle, known as mutuality, is based on the idea that a group of people cannot make profit from dealing with themselves.
    However, IRD is proposing that if a not-for-profit is constitutionally prohibited from distributing profits to members, as most are, its member income should be taxed.
    “This would pull the rug out from under about 9000 not-for profits, advocacy groups, professional associations, unions, community organisations, and political parties who rely on membership fees to fund their operations,” McIntyre says.
    “This is not just about Federated Farmers – it’s sector-wide and is creating huge concern.”
    The IRD’s draft relies heavily on an Australian legal precedent – the Coleambally Irrigation case – which found mutuality does not apply when there is a legal bar on profit distribution.
    But Federated Farmers argues this is a poor precedent to import into New Zealand, noting that Australia’s Parliament had to step in and reverse it with legislation after significant backlash.
    New Zealand’s not-for-profit framework is different – but the harm from adopting this interpretation would create exactly the same confusion and harm, McIntyre says.
    Federated Farmers’ submission urges the IRD Commissioner to withdraw the proposal and reaffirm the non-taxable status of genuine mutual income.
    “Ultimately, this is now a political question. The Government cannot allow the Inland Revenue to unilaterally rewrite tax policy that affects thousands of organisations,” McIntyre says.
    “This is why the Minister needs to rule this out publicly. Tax policy decisions of this magnitude belong with elected representatives, not faceless tax officials in Wellington.”
    Federated Farmers has submitted on this consultation draft.
    The submission questions why IRD is pursuing the change now, after more than 20 years of consistent guidance and practice and ecosystem has been allowed to flourish under the existing rules.
    “After two decades of stability, we have to ask: why now? This has the hallmarks of a desperate revenue grab dressed up as a legal interpretation,” McIntyre says.
    “That’s why the Minister needs to make it clear this won’t proceed.”
    Federated Farmers is not alone in its concerns.
    “We’re hearing from a growing coalition of not-for-profits across the country, who are just as alarmed as us about the proposed change and its implications,” McIntyre says.
    “From unions to professional bodies to political parties, the feedback is unanimous: this proposal would be devastating.
    “The mutuality principle has served our country well for decades, and it should be preserved.”
    Federated Farmers’ submission concludes with a stark warning: if the Commissioner proceeds with the reinterpretation, it will become a political issue – one that Ministers and MPs will need to address urgently.
    “The public deserve to know where the Government stands on this. We’re calling on Minister Watts to give that clarity now,” McIntyre says.
    The full submission is available here, and Federated Farmers will continue to engage with the Government, other affected organisations, and the wider public as the consultation process unfolds. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Funding – Nurses need share of primary health care funding increase – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    Increases in primary care funding announced today must be passed onto nurses to fix chronic staff shortages so New Zealanders can get in to see health care professionals faster, the Nurses Organisation Tōputanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) says.
    The Government funds GP clinics based on the number of enrolled patients they have, regardless of the services they receive, through what’s called the capitation system.
    Health Minister Simeon Brown today announced capitation funding for this year is set to increase to 13.89%.
    NZNO College of Primary Care Nurses chair Tracey Morgan says nurses are urging primary care employers to pass this funding increase onto them via their wages, Tracey Morgan says.
    “This will help stem the flow of nurses out of primary care and into hospitals.
    “A skilled nursing workforce is desperately needed to keep care in the community, ensure vaccination targets are met, ease pressure on hospital emergency departments and prevent long term conditions worsening.
    “During collective agreement bargaining last year, primary care nurses were 16-18% behind their hospital-based colleagues in pay. The employers told the union that if the money was available, they would willingly pass it on to nurses.”
    Primary care nurses will receive a 3% increase in July through their collective agreement which also gave them a further 5% on ratification earlier this year, Tracey Morgan says.
    “However, this will still have them 10% behind hospital nurses with the same qualifications.
    “Simeon Brown says this funding boost is help patients see their doctor and nurse earlier. The ability to recruit and retain primary health nurses is vital to achieving this,” Tracey Morgan says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – SAFE calls for investigation into sexually explicit dairy farm content

    Source: SAFE For Animals

    SAFE has been made aware of apparent dairy farm workers who are producing video content of a sexual nature directly involving cows at a New Zealand dairy farm for their social media platforms Instagram and Only Fans.
    It is deeply concerning to see mother cows who are already being exploited for their reproductive systems being further victimised for the production of sexually explicit video content.
    SAFE finds the actions of all individuals involved, whether directly or indirectly, to be reprehensible and entirely unacceptable. We demand full accountability from those responsible for the care of these animals for allowing such conduct to take place on the farm.
    SAFE condemns the dairy industry’s exploitation of mother cows and their calves, including the separation of all newborn calves from their mothers so their milk can be taken for human consumption, and the annual slaughter of around two million bobby calves who are regarded as waste products by the industry.
    The public places a great deal of trust in those who work with animals. This trust is eroded when animals are treated as props for profit-driven content that degrades their dignity.
    We have reported this matter to Ministry for Primary industries. As we both urge for and anticipate an investigation, we will not be making any further public comments at this time.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Government – Recognition of the GP workforce’s value to communities welcomed in funding announcement

    Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

    Health Minister Hon Simeon Brown’s funding announcement prioritising patients’ health and recognising the crucial role of our specialist general practice workforce has been welcomed by The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners.
    College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “Healthcare starts, and often

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Whitireia Foundation scholarships enable study for nearly 900 students across 20+ years

    Source: Whitireia and WelTec

    Since its inception in 2002, the Whitireia Foundation has awarded scholarships to nearly 900 ākonga (students), supporting their journeys through tertiary study and into careers that make a meaningful impact in their communities.
    From nursing and paramedicine to construction, hospitality, IT and more, the Foundation’s impact spans a wide range of industries. More than half of all scholarship recipients have gone on to study in healthcare and social services, helping to fill essential roles in our communities.
    The annual Whitireia Foundation Scholarship Awards ceremony took place this month, celebrating ākonga who have received scholarships to support their study at Whitireia and WelTec in 2025. The event brought together ākonga, whānau, sponsors, Foundation trustees, staff and community leaders including Porirua Mayor Anita Baker and Ngāti Toa Rangatira Dr Te Taku Parai to acknowledge the achievements of this year’s recipients.
    Dr Leanne Ivil, Whitireia and WelTec Operations Lead and Director Teaching and Learning, says the Foundation plays a vital role in helping ākonga succeed.
    “Not only do these scholarships provide financial assistance, but they also give ākonga a sense of belonging, of being seen and supported. For many, the moment they realise that others believe in their future is a significant turning point.”
    Chair of the Whitireia Foundation, Kelvin Irvine, says the power of the scholarships lies in the connections they represent.
    “Education isn’t a solo journey. These awards reflect a wider community of sponsors, staff, mentors and whānau who come together to champion our ākonga. We’reincredibly proud to have supported nearly 900 ākonga to date, and we look forward to continuing that legacy.”
    Delia (Dee) Pahina-Kopa, a third-year Bachelor of Nursing Māori student, was awarded a Whitireia Foundation Scholarship sponsored by Tū Ora Compass Health for her second and third year of studies.
    “This scholarship has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders,” she says. ” It’s allowed me to focus fully on my learning and I’m incredibly grateful to the Whitireia Foundation and Tū Ora Compass Health for making that possible.”
    The Whitireia Foundation relies on the strong relationship between its trustees and sponsors who work together each year to support ākonga in their studies. Kelvin Irvine says sponsors come from a wide range of industries and their ongoing support reflects a shared commitment to helping ākonga succeed.
    “Many of our sponsors have supported the Foundation for years, while others have come on board more recently. What they all have in common is a belief in the value of education and a commitment to invest in the future of our young people and communities,” says Kelvin.
    This year’s scholarships will support students across a range of programmes at Whitireia and WelTec, including nursing, social work, IT, business, construction, creativity, hospitality and trades.
    The Whitireia Foundation, a volunteer-run Charity, aims to promote knowledge, interest and support for the educational activities of Whitireia and WelTec ākonga. The Whitireia Foundation would like to acknowledge the generous support of 2025 sponsors:
    – Alpha NZ
    – Aspiring Wallpaper Ltd
    – Britton House Movers Ltd
    – Dr Sally Hasell
    – Focus Projects Ltd
    – Ford Sumner Lawyers
    – Foster + Melville Architects
    – Gee & Hickton Funeral Directors
    – Geraldine Lyndhurst
    – Graduate Women Wellington
    – J A Russell Ltd
    – James and Janet Goggin
    – Kirk-Burnnand Family
    – Maude Legal
    – Montage NZ
    – Ngāti Toa Rangatira
    – Nikau Foundation
    – P & M Waite
    – Porirua City Council
    – Red Wolf  Security
    – Tanya and Neil Macdonald
    – The Y Foundation (YMCA)
    – Tu Ora Compass Health
    – Whitireia Foundation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 3, Ōhaupō closed

    Source: New Zealand Police

    State Highway 3, Ōhaupō is closed at the intersection with West Road following a crash.

    The three-vehicle crash happened at about 12:10pm.

    No serious injuries have been reported.

    Diversions are in place via Forkert Road (northbound) and Kaipaki Road (southbound).

    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: Politics and Employment – NZ government out of touch on employment rights – CTU

    Source: NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi

    The commitment at the 113th International Labour Organization conference to develop a binding Convention for securing decent work in the platform economy shows how disconnected and out of touch the New Zealand government is when it comes to employment rights.

    “This decision is a huge step towards establishing internationally recognised labour rights for digital platform workers,” said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges. 

    “This is the mandate for much-needed regulation of digital labour platforms and by doing so, ensuring that innovation is not achieved at the expense of workers’ rights.

    “It’s really telling, that while the international community comes together to support platform workers, Brooke van Velden has introduced a new Employment Relations Amendment Bill that will undermine the rights of those very workers in Aotearoa.

    “Her Bill, which int

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government out of touch on employment rights

    Source: NZCTU

    The commitment at the 113th International Labour Organization conference to develop a binding Convention for securing decent work in the platform economy shows how disconnected and out of touch the New Zealand government is when it comes to employment rights.

    “This decision is a huge step towards establishing internationally recognised labour rights for digital platform workers,” said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Secretary Melissa Ansell-Bridges. 

    “This is the mandate for much-needed regulation of digital labour platforms and by doing so, ensuring that innovation is not achieved at the expense of workers’ rights.

    “It’s really telling, that while the international community comes together to support platform workers, Brooke van Velden has introduced a new Employment Relations Amendment Bill that will undermine the rights of those very workers in Aotearoa.

    “Her Bill, which intends to misclassify workers as contractors and remove their legal right to challenge their employment status in court, is a severe undermining of worker rights. It is completely out of touch, and the Bill must be voted down”, said Ansell-Bridges.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Human remains located, Ōwhiro Bay

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Lee Underhill, Wellington CIB

    An investigation is underway following the discovery of human remains at an address in Ōwhiro Bay on Sunday (22 June).

    On Monday afternoon a Police team were in the area after a homeowner located remains in his garden.

    The remains have been identified as human, and enquiries will look to determine how old these remains are, followed by a formal identification process, which may take some time.

    Anyone with information that may assist as to the identity of the remains and how they came to be at the location is encouraged to contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online.

    Please reference file number 250622/3189.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 1 in 10 young adults are LGBTIQ+ – Stats NZ media release and report: LGBTIQ+ population of Aotearoa New Zealand: 2023

    1 in 10 young adults are LGBTIQ+ – media release

    24 June 2025

    The LGBTIQ+ population is comparatively young, with 1 in 10 people aged 15 to 29 years being LGBTIQ+ (10.2 percent) in the 2023 Census, compared with 1 in 20 adults in the overall adult population (4.9 percent), according to a report released by Stats NZ today.

    LGBTIQ+ population of Aotearoa New Zealand: 2023 brings together information about the LGBTIQ+ population in the 2023 Census, as well as information on the LGBT+ population from the Household Economic Survey and the General Social Survey. The 2023 Census data has enabled detailed breakdowns of the LGBTIQ+ population and the groups within it, across age, ethnicity, and other census measures for the first time.  

    Gender, sex, and LGBTIQ+ concepts in the 2023 Census has more information on the census concepts used for these breakdowns.

    Visit our website to read this news story and report and to download CSV files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Lifesaving funding boosts for Kiwis’ outdoor safety

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Transport Minister James Meager has confirmed an additional $76.7 million for New Zealand Search and Rescue over three years, to ensure 12 organisations can continue their lifesaving operations.
    Additionally, the Government has announced an investment of $624,000 over the same period, to help maintain and improve recreational aviation safety across the country.
    “New Zealand has one of the largest and most challenging search and rescue regions in the world, so it’s vital to ensure they have necessary funding to deliver their critical services,” Mr Meager says.  
    “Ensuring Kiwis are safe as they go about their activities, either for work or leisure, is one of the Government’s top transport priorities.
    “Last year, 152 lives were saved, 921 people were assisted and 794 people were rescued through the work of the search and rescue sector. This is thanks to the dedication of than 11,000 people involved in the industry – 80 per cent of whom are volunteers.”    
    $542,000 will go towards the New Zealand Aviation Federation to deliver updated Instrument Flight Procedures at unattended aerodromes, which pilots use to safely take off and land at airports across the country.
    An $82,000 funding boost will also enhance safety at those sites, paying for further training and education to remind pilots of the necessary safety procedures.
    “The investment also underlines the Government’s commitment to helping grow our economy by supporting a safe and secure recreational aviation system,” Mr Meager says.
    “Many Kiwis and visitors love to get out and explore our beautiful country. Today’s announcements will help keep everyone safe when they’re outdoors – whether that’s on the land, water or in the air.”
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Prime Minister strengthens NZ’s ties with Europe

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has held high-level talks with European Union leaders in Brussels, to underline the close ties between New Zealand and the EU.

    “The European Union is one of New Zealand’s most trusted partners,” Mr Luxon says.

    “This is something that was emphasised in my meetings with both EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President António Costa.

    “President von der Leyen and I discussed our commitment to the international rules-based system – something that’s more important than ever given the pressure on global security and prosperity.

    “We also talked about opportunities to ramp up two-way trade under the EU-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement.

    “New Zealand’s goods exports to the high-value EU market have already grown by more than $1 billion, a 25 percent increase since last year. But we know there is still scope to significantly increase this further with our premium New Zealand products.”

    New Zealand and the EU are also collaborating on research, science and innovation through Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research funding programme.

    “Our researchers are working together on 17 projects across a range of sectors, from hydrogen storage to bioprinting. By joining forces, we are driving scientific progress and innovation that delivers economic benefit for both our regions,” Mr Luxon says.

    While in Belgium, Mr Luxon also visited New Zealand memorials and other significant sites across Flanders Fields, to pay respect to the thousands of Kiwi soldiers who served on the Western Front during World War I.  

    He now travels to the Netherlands where he will meet with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof before attending the NATO Summit in The Hague.

    A joint readout of the meeting is attached.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Frequently asked questions (FAQs) – changes to vocational education

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Can you please explain the different groups involved in the changes?

    ISBsIndustry Skills Boards

    Industry Skills Boards are new entities that will be established formally from 1 January 2026. 
    They have a core role of standard setting for vocational education across their allocated sectors. They will also work to share the voice of industry and advise TEC about workforce needs.
    Each ISB will be set up through an Order in Council and will be industry led. (Six out of eight board members will come from industry.) 

    ISB EAGsIndustry Skills Boards Establishment Advisory Groups

    These groups will exist from mid-2025 until the end of the year to support the establishment of the new ISBs. 
    Their focus is on governance and organisation establishment rather than industry advocacy. 

    ITPsInstitutes of technology and polytechnics

    ITPs are independent regional polytechnics that will be established in 2026. The location of the first of these will be decided by the government in mid-2025. Further decisions will be made during 2026.

    ITP EAGsInstitutes of Technology and Polytechnics Establishment Advisory Groups

    These groups will exist from mid-2025 until the end of the year to support the set-up of the ITPs that are being established at the beginning of 2026. 
    Their focus is on establishing the regional polytechnics as they are split out from the national entity of Te Pūkenga. 

    ITOsIndustry training organisations

    Before the Reform of Vocational Education in 2023, all work-based training was delivered by ITOs. In 2023, most work-based training done in ITOs moved into Te Pūkenga, becoming the work-based learning divisions. Many of the entities continued to use their ITO branding even though ITOs did not technically exist in the system from 2023. 
    These work-based learning divisions of Te Pūkenga will move into ISBs on 1 January 2026, for up to two years.

    PTEsPrivate training establishments

    PTEs are registered with and quality assured by NZQA. They are training providers who have met specific requirements. Training providers (that are not a university, polytechnic or wānanga) must hold PTE registration to be eligible for TEC funding. PTEs may be companies or not-for-profit organisations.

    VETVocational education and training

    Vocational education and training includes all provision at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) of the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework, as well as Level 2 when it is delivered in the workplace.
    It does not include degree-level provision or foundation education.
    VET can be delivered in the workplace (work-based) in a classroom/campus setting (provider-based) or by distance and online learning (extramural). 

    TECTertiary Education Commission

    TEC’s core role in the VET system is funding. We fund the provision at this level in line with funding mechanisms from government.

    NZQANew Zealand Qualifications Authority

    NZQA assures the quality and integrity of New Zealand qualifications. They register providers, quality assure programmes and, for some areas, act as a standard setter. They also oversee the Education (Pastoral Care of Tertiary and International Learners) Code of Practice.

    Work-based learning divisions
    When the work-based learning divisions move into ISBs on 1 January 2026, will they stop enrolling new learners?
    No. At this point we expect that all work-based learning divisions will still be enrolling new learners from 1 January.
    When we have reached the point where there are sufficient providers for a sector, we will:
     (a) not fund additional providers; and
     (b) require ISBs to cease enrolling new learners (if provision remains with them).
    ISBs will have the role of informing TEC about the network of work-based learning provision (number and types of providers) that industry needs. This will inform the funding of new providers, and the expectations on the work-based learning divisions.
    ISBs will begin this work in January 2026, and we expect it to take time for them to gather this information from industry.
    Why is work-based learning moving to the ISBs?
    We appreciate that learners, employers and educators may have some concerns about possible disruption to work-based training because of the upcoming changes. The transition period (2026–2027) has been put in place to minimise disruption for learners and employers as the functions currently under Te Pūkenga work-based learning lift-and-shift unchanged into the ISBs.
    Will the work-based learning divisions of the new ISBs be able to continue developing programmes? Or does all new development stop on 1 January 2026?
    The focus for work-based learning during the transition period (where the training units sit within the ISBs) will be on preparing for transfer, rather than growing. There will, however, be cases where new standards, credentials or qualifications will be required to meet industry needs. In these cases, new provision will be supported.
    What is happening with ITOs?
    ITOs ceased to exist in 2022, although many Te Pūkenga work-based learning business divisions continued to use their old ITO names. Te Pūkenga work-based learning divisions will move temporarily into ISBs. This work-based learning will move into providers (including polytechnics, wānanga and PTEs) by 31 December 2027.
    Industry Skills Boards
    How many ISBs are there and what do they cover?
    We are currently awaiting decisions on the number of ISBs and their broad coverage.
    Further consultation will happen later this year when the ISB EAGs consult around detailed coverage as part of the Order in Council (OIC) process to formally establish the ISBs.
    Why are you putting standard setting and delivery/arranging of training back together?
    The training functions that are moving into the ISBs will only be there temporarily. By January 2028, no training will be delivered by ISBs. During the transition period, the training unit will sit within the ISB but will not be fully integrated into it.
    How will you ensure ISBs manage the conflict of interest involved with being both the standard setter and a training deliverer?
    During the transition period, each training unit will sit within the relevant ISB but will not be fully integrated into it, as this arrangement is only temporary.
    If industries are grouped together in one ISB, will they stop having unique qualifications?
    No. ISBs will be able to create and maintain standards, credentials and qualifications that are specific to the sectors they cover – in the same way Workforce Development Councils (WDCs) do.
    I am worried that ISBs will only look after work-based learning.
    ISBs will create and maintain standards, credentials and qualifications for all the sectors they cover at the vocational level. This will include products that support provider-based (including polytechnic) delivery, and extramural programmes as well as work-based learning.
    How will industry continue to have a voice in the system when there is only provider-based learning for their sector?
    An ISB will take on vocational standard setting for its entire sector, not just for the work-based learning elements. This means it will be responsible for all standards, credentials and qualifications for that sector.
    The term “industry” is very broad. When you say industry will inform choices who do you mean?
    ISBs have a role in communicating industry voice, and their governance will be industry led. ISBs will work with established industry groups and associations as well as employers and other sector stakeholders. ISBs will be expected to put in place mechanisms that identify the needs of all industries they represent.
    What expectations does TEC have regarding collaboration between the ISB Establishment Advisory Groups?
    We have an expectation for all ISBs and ISB Establishment Advisory Groups that they work together cooperatively, especially where the qualifications they cover will impact multiple sectors.
    What will happen to WDCs? What will be done to ensure expertise in WDCs is retained in the new system?
    The standard-setting functions of WDCs will continue until the end of 2025, when they will be disestablished and ISBs will be stood up. In the upcoming months, WDCs will develop plans to transfer relevant functions to ISBs.
    ISBs have a more targeted role than WDCs. It is expected that WDC staff involved in these functions will transition into ISBs.
    PTEs that deliver work-based training
    What happens to work-based learners and apprentices who are studying through a PTE?
    There is currently a small network of PTEs that are funded by TEC to deliver work-based learning. These PTEs will be able to continue enrolling and delivering the provision they currently do.
    All TEC funded providers are given a funding allocation for the year and their enrolments must stay within that allocation. There is no guarantee of funding for providers that enrol above their allocation.
    Who is responsible for determining who is eligible to become a new PTE or work-based provider? What will the criteria be?
    NZQA determines whether an organisation has the appropriate capability to become a registered provider (PTE). TEC determines whether the provider’s offering is suitable for government funding. Funding decisions will be informed by industry preferences about a network of provision.
    How does a PTE start being TEC funded to deliver work-based learning?
    Currently we will only fund new work-based learning PTEs in cases where the provider can demonstrate significant industry support. Our requirements for this will be stringent. For details, see Application to receive TEC funding.
    ISBs will work with industry during 2026 and beyond to understand the network of work-based learning provision that each sector needs. This information will inform TEC funding. Until this information is received, TEC will not have a clear picture of what provision will be both sustainable and sufficient to meet industry needs.
    In most cases we encourage providers to read the guidance information about what we are looking for in work-based learning and start to prepare for future opportunities.
    These same criteria will be applied to existing work-based learning providers that may wish to expand their provision.
    What are the new funding parameters for work-based learning? This is a critical pathway for all providers as business owners.
    See the TEC website for work-based learning funding rates.
    Managed apprenticeships
    Do Managed Apprentices stay with their Polytech provider or move to an ISB in January 2026?
    Currently, no changes are expected for Managed Apprentices already enrolled with a Polytechnic.
    We are currently working through the detail of what Managed Apprenticeships will look like in the future. Like other work-based provision, we do not want to see expansion before ISBs have had the opportunity to consider the network of provision needed for their sectors.
    The stand up of regional ITPs
    How do we find out which polytechnics will be standalone and which will be part of a federation?
    These decisions are being worked through. We will update this information when details are available.
    Will regional ITPs be able to offer programmes nationally?
    Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics (ITPs) are being set up to deliver regionally, to maximise the strength of local knowledge. We expect that this will be the main focus of their provision, however, we will consider other arrangements if these have the support of industry.
    Secondary/tertiary provision
    What is happening with standard setting and delivery for secondary to tertiary transition programmes like Gateway and Trades Academies?
    We will be looking at how these programmes will be supported, and expect this information to be covered in the transition plans developed by WDCs and Te Pūkenga work-based learning divisions.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Changes for prescribing ADHD medications

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has welcomed prescribing changes that will enable GPs and nurse practitioners to diagnose and treat adults with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

    “I applaud Pharmac and Medsafe’s decision to widen prescribing rules for ADHD medicines from next February, this decision will give New Zealanders faster access to assessments and treatment,” Mr Doocey says.

    “This is a common-sense change that will make a meaningful difference in many lives of New Zealanders. I have heard stories of many people with ADHD who have been unable to get a diagnosis and treatment in a timely manner because of long wait items and costs associated with seeing a specialist.”

    Currently, GPs and nurse practitioners can only prescribe ADHD medicines to patients with a written recommendation from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, or after someone has already been diagnosed and had their first prescription.

    “This is a great step forward for timely access to support and for system efficiency. A number of our GPs and nurse practitioners are already working closely with psychiatrists to treat ADHD, so they already have the skills to manage this work,” Mr Doocey says.

    “It is still crucial that we balance risks. The Ministry of Health is working with sector representatives to develop a clinical principles framework for the assessment and treatment of ADHD. This will ensure there is quality and consistency for supporting patients with ADHD in New Zealand.

    “I want to acknowledge the many advocates with lived experience and others who have spent years advocating for this change. This decision is based on the recommendations received from both healthcare practitioners and patients.

    “We have heard your feedback loud and clear, and we know the positive impact this decision will have on many people’s ability to access what is often life-changing medicines.”

    This change is only one in a suite of measures to increase access to ADHD medicines. Last year, Pharmac also removed the requirement for funded access to stimulant medicines to be renewed every two years and is funding a new ADHD medicine, lisdexamfetamine.

    Note to editors:

    • Health agencies will be working closely with health sector groups over the next few months to support these changes. Not all GPs and nurse practitioners will be equipped to carry out this work immediately after the regulatory changes come into effect.
    • For younger people under 18, this change will allow nurse practitioners working within a multidisciplinary setting as part of paediatric or child and adolescent mental health services to diagnose and start treatment for ADHD.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: GPs and nurse practitioners able to start ADHD treatment from next year

    Source: PHARMAC

    From February 2026, general practitioners (GPs) and nurse practitioners will be able to start medical treatment for adults with ADHD, following decisions by Medsafe and Pharmac.

    This is a change to the current system, under which GPs and nurse practitioners can only prescribe ADHD stimulant medicines to patients on a written recommendation from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, or after someone has already been diagnosed with ADHD and given a first prescription. 

    Pharmac’s Acting Director Advice and Assessment, Catherine Epps says the new rules, which come into effect in February 2026, will mean that over time, more GPs and nurse practitioners will be able to diagnose and start adults on treatment for ADHD. For children and adolescents, who currently require input from a paediatrician or psychiatrist to initiate medical treatment for ADHD, the changes will allow nurse practitioners, working within child health or mental health services, to diagnose and start treatment for ADHD.

    “The decision, which is based on feedback from psychiatrists, paediatricians, GPs, nurse practitioners and patients, is one of many changes we are making to increase access to ADHD medicines. It follows our decision last year to remove the two-yearly renewal criteria for these medicines, making it easier to access ongoing treatment,” says Epps.

    Medsafe Group Manager Chris James says the change draws on the skills of GPs and nurse practitioners to improve access to ADHD treatment for the public.

    “We have a workforce of highly experienced general practitioners and nurse practitioners, a number of whom are already working closely with specialists to treat patients with ADHD. Implementing this change will mean they can do this work more quickly and efficiently without needing to wait for approval from a specialist.

    “It’s important we ensure a high quality of ADHD assessment, and that people can expect to receive appropriate care and support. We have been working closely with sector representatives to develop a clinical framework which will set out principles for diagnosing and treating ADHD, including the appropriate clinical care required of healthcare practitioners,” says Chris James.

    Earlier this year, Medsafe and Pharmac asked for feedback on the proposal to change the regulatory and funding restrictions for stimulant treatments for ADHD. More than 940 people and organisations responded to the consultation.

    Overall, most of the feedback was supportive. People explained how this decision will improve access to diagnosis and treatment for people with ADHD.

    Some were concerned about the supply issues affecting methylphenidate, and the impact this decision would have on it.

    To respond to these concerns, health agencies have delayed the implementation date of the decision. It will now come into effect in February 2026, rather than July 2025.

    This will also allow more time for more GP and nurse practitioners to develop further clinical expertise to begin assessing adults for ADHD and initiating their treatment.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government recognises Matariki near Ohakune

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is recognising Matariki at the official ceremony near Ohakune today, Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.

    “We are honoured to be guests of Ngāti Rangi for this traditional hautapu ceremony,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    “This is the fourth national Matariki broadcast but the first time it has been hosted by a marae, and the first year Puanga is the star of national celebrations. 

    “Matariki and Puanga are both stars that sit in the night sky together to signal the start of the Māori new year for different iwi. 

    “We are very fortunate to have this opportunity to witness and share in the Puanga traditions of Ngāti Rangi.

    “The theme for this year’s celebration is Matariki mā Puanga, which means celebrating together. I hope that no matter where people are, they get the chance to remember, celebrate and look to the future. Mānawatia a Matariki!”

    “For many Iwi, Puanga shines brightest above our communities as we grow the tradition of celebrating together,” Mr Potaka says.

    “These Puanga observations signal the year is coming to a close, and inform forecasts for the future. It’s a time to reflect on the past, remembering and giving thanks to those who have passed on before us.

    “It’s also a time to reflect on what was achieved over the past year. Along with the rising of Matariki, we welcome the dawn of a new year and plan ahead with ancestral wisdom.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Customer Contact Group closed from 3pm Friday

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 24 June 2025
    Last updated 24 June 2025

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    The Customer Contact Group will be closed from 3pm on Friday 27 June, reopening 8.30am on Monday 30 June. Please email customerservice@tec.govt.nz with any queries.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renewing your MTOC – faster approval times

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    We know that many Maritime Transport Operator Certificates (MTOC) expire this year and we have worked on our business processes so decision times for MTOC renewals are now much faster.

    Of course, not all applications will be the same, with some being more complicated than others, and these more complicated applications can take longer to process. However, the changes we have made to how we do our work, and operators sending us all the information we need early and paying promptly, mean the overall processing times are much faster.

    Help your own application – don’t delay

    Six months before your MTOC expires, we’ll send you everything you need to renew it – to avoid delays, please then apply as soon as you can. Don’t wait.

    It’s important to apply before your MTOC expires because we can’t renew an expired MTOC. Applying for a new one is a much longer process which includes a site visit. You would also be unable to operate until we issue a new MTOC. We don’t want that to happen.

    If you haven’t applied within three months of our email, we’ll send you a reminder but it’s best to not wait.

    We can help you

    We want to help your application go smoothly. If you have any questions, need assistance or think you might have missed your six-month email, please:

    • talk to your maritime officer
    • email [email protected]
    • phone, toll-free, 0508 22 55 22 (press 1 from the menu)
    • see this webpage for updated information to help your renewal.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Global report praises NZ’s sustainable fisheries

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A United Nations report ranking New Zealand’s fisheries among the world’s most sustainable is strong recognition of the sector’s hard work, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

    “The report compared fisheries around the world and found the region including New Zealand’s waters have the second highest levels of sustainable stocks in the world.

    “New Zealand has a reputation around the world for high quality, sustainable kaimoana and, as this report shows, the reputation is richly deserved,” Mr Jones says.

    The review of the state of world marine fishery resources report is produced by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to give an overview of the state of fisheries around the world.

    The section of the report on the Southwest Pacific, including all of New Zealand and the Australian New South Wales coast, said 85.5 percent of fish stocks were considered sustainably fished.

    “The report confirms what we already knew – that the quota management system (QMS) works well to keep our fisheries sustainable and continues to be the best framework for managing fisheries sustainably,” Mr Jones says.

    “It is a good validation of our approach and it didn’t happen by accident. It is the result of generations of effort since the introduction of our quota management system in 1986. Fishers, scientists, kaitiaki, volunteers and regulators all work hard to keep our fisheries sustainable.”

    “While these results are incredibly positive, I believe that our fishery management system can be even better, which is why I have proposed changes to the Fisheries Act. These changes will build on what we are already doing well, and make our fishing industry more efficient and productive, to allow the sector to meet its potential.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Improved groundwater quality indicator reveals a mixed picture of New Zealand’s aquifers – Stats NZ media release: Groundwater quality: Data to 2024

    Improved groundwater quality indicator reveals a mixed picture of New Zealand’s aquifers – media release

    24 June 2025

    An improved groundwater quality indicator, with more comprehensive data, additional measures, and refined methodology, has been released by Stats NZ today.

    “This release has greatly improved data coverage, helping us better understand the current state of groundwater and how it’s changing over time,” environment statistics spokesperson Tehseen Islam said.  

    “It’s a step forward in how we assess and report on groundwater quality.”

    Groundwater is water stored underground in aquifers – layers of water-bearing rock or sand. It is commonly accessed through wells and can also emerge naturally through springs.  

    Groundwater plays a crucial role in supporting rivers, lakes, and wetlands, and supplies drinking water to nearly half of New Zealand’s population.

    Visit our website to read this news story and the indicator page:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ-NASA partnership launches five new projects

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti and Space Minister Judith Collins have today announced that in partnership with the US, the Government is investing $5.6 million to support five new joint NZ-NASA research projects in the field of Earth observation.

    Researchers from New Zealand and NASA will work in partnership to tackle challenges such as disaster resilience and environmental management over the next three years.

    “These projects will combine some of New Zealand’s best research talent with NASA’s world-leading scientific expertise and technology, driving innovation in space science and environmental monitoring,” Dr Reti says.

    “Advancing Earth observation science helps us better understand our natural environment and enables us to manage our natural resources more effectively. For example, we can use satellite data and AI algorithms to accurately measure water movements, which helps manage freshwater and mitigate floods.

    “These projects will create a more resilient economy and drive productivity in some of our most valuable export industries, such as forestry and agriculture. They will also grow our science and innovation sector by positioning us in global growth markets such as remote sensing,” Dr Reti says.

    “The US is an indispensable space cooperation partner for New Zealand and our engagement with NASA is a key part of our bilateral relationship. These projects will further entrench our ongoing and positive relationship with NASA,” Ms Collins says.

    “NASA will contribute Earth observation satellite data, access to advanced tools and technology, as well as approximately $1.9 million in direct staff time and expertise.

    The projects are the second stage of the NZ–NASA research partnership through the Catalyst Fund, following an earlier round of feasibility studies. The selected projects span a range of high-impact areas:

    • Te Mātai Pū o te Kea – High Altitude Coastal Remote Sensing – advances remote-sensing technology using Kea’s Atmos high-altitude uncrewed aircraft.
    • Satellite Multi-Scale Hydrologic Framework for Te Hiku ō Te Ika Wairere Ngahere – develops tools to measure terrestrial water flux via satellite data.
    • Monitoring Vegetation–Geothermal Interactions from Space and Airborne Platforms – Integrates multiple Earth observation data streams to measure chemical and physical changes via vegetation.
    • Near Real-Time Fuel Moisture System for Wildfire and Drought – builds a predictive fire model using remote sensing.
    • Integrating Machine Learning and Remote Sensing for Dynamic Forest Mapping – develops predictive forest mapping using satellite imagery.

    Further information about the projects can be found on the MBIE website: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/catalyst-strategic-new-zealand-nasa-joint-research-programme-in-earth-observation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Backing fair trade and healthy oceans

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is investing a further $150,000 to support implementation of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement—ensuring New Zealand exporters can compete on a level playing field while helping protect global fish stocks.

    “This is about backing rules that stop unfair subsidies and make sure all countries are held to the same standards,” Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay says.

    “It’s in New Zealand’s direct interest to see this Agreement fully implemented—especially in the Pacific, where many of our key partners operate and where our seafood exporters are active.”

    New Zealand’s total contribution now stands at $310,000.

    The 2022 Agreement—ratified by 102 WTO members—will ban subsidies that support illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, fishing of overfished stocks, and unregulated high seas fishing. Just nine more ratifications are needed for it to enter into force.

    “Unfair subsidies distort global trade and undercut responsible producers like ours. This Agreement ensures a more level global playing field—while also supporting the sustainability of fish stocks we all rely on,” Mr McClay says.

    “New Zealand will continue to push for the Agreement to enter into force and for negotiations on additional rules to conclude quickly.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on proposed catch limits for fisheries across New Zealand

    Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

    Catch limits and other management changes for nearly 30 fisheries across the country are included in proposals for the next regular fisheries sustainability review, says Fisheries New Zealand director of fisheries management Emma Taylor.

    The public consultation, which began today, includes proposed changes for 3 blue cod stocks, snapper on the west coast of the South Island, and blue mackerel on the west coast of the North Island.

    “The blue cod fish stocks being reviewed are all highly-prized shared fisheries, important to recreational, customary, and commercial fishers alike,” says Emma Taylor. 

    “Proposed cuts to commercial catch for 2 blue cod stocks are in response to latest abundance estimates, while the third had a commercial catch limit cut last year. Recreational daily catch limits are proposed to be reduced for all 3 fisheries, in line with the settings in place under the National Blue Cod Strategy.”

    Emma Taylor says the latest assessment of blue mackerel on the west coast of the North and South Islands shows that the fish stock is above the target level, so the proposals include an increased catch for the fishery.

    “These are just a small portion of the fish stocks included in the proposed changes. I encourage anyone with an interest in our fisheries to read the consultation material and provide feedback.

    “The fisheries included in this review represent stocks that are of importance to New Zealand economically, socially, and culturally,” says Emma Taylor.

    “We need to ensure that catch limits and other settings for our fisheries strike the right balance between getting value for all New Zealanders while ensuring they remain sustainable for future generations.

    “Following consultation, we will prepare advice for Fisheries Minister Shanes Jones to make decisions on any changes, which would come into effect for the fishing year starting 1 October 2025,” says Emma Taylor.

    Also included in the proposed changes are deemed value rate changes for 6 fish stocks. The consultation is open now and will run until 23 July 2025.

    The full proposals, as well as more information about the consultation and how to make a submission can be found on Fisheries New Zealand’s website.

    Proposals for changes to catch limits for orange roughy on the Chatham Rise are also being developed and will be available for consultation in the coming weeks.

    Find out more

    Review of sustainability measures for fisheries – October 2025 round

    Review of sustainability measures for fisheries – October 2024 round

    For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: GPs to receive record funding boost

    Source: New Zealand Government

    General practices are set to benefit from the largest funding boost in New Zealand’s history – because frontline care starts with your local GP, Health Minister Simeon Brown says. 

    “This Government is focused on real results. When you are able to see your doctor or nurse earlier, you stay healthier and out of hospital. That’s better for patients, better for the system, and exactly what we are here to deliver,” Mr Brown says.

    “Too many New Zealanders have struggled to get care because their local GP isn’t taking new patients, or the next available appointment is weeks away. This funding boost is about turning things around. It’s part of our $1.37 billion investment in Health New Zealand through Budget 2025 – backing your local family doctor to see more patients, reduce wait times, and deliver care faster to those who need it most.

    “The funding agreement reached with the sector yesterday reflects another significant step forward and will support GPs to continue to improve access to timely, quality healthcare.”

    Under the agreement, GPs will receive a 13.89 per cent funding uplift this year. This brings the total Government funding increase for GP clinics this financial year to $175 million – more than double the highest annual increase seen since capitation was first rolled out.

    “This reflects our ongoing commitment to strengthen and invest in frontline services to ensure New Zealanders can get access to the timely, quality healthcare they deserve.

    “We have already announced major investments to boost the number of doctors and nurses working in primary care. This funding boost will enable GP clinics to recruit and retain the additional workers as they graduate.”

    This funding increase provides: 
     

    • $59 million capitation increase for the number of patients enrolled with individual general practices
    • $60 million for improved patient access to appointments, and to encourage practices to provide more data to enable more performance-based funding
    • $30 million performance-based funding for improved immunisation outcomes, specifically ensuring more babies receive their first vaccine doses at the six-week milestone
    • $26 million in additional funding to help GPs keep fees capped for community service card holders and those on low incomes and to prevent fee increases for under-14s.

    “Supporting GP clinics to deliver minor planned care procedures closer to patients in the community takes pressure directly off our hospitals.

    “That’s why a further $5 million to expand access to minor planned care procedures in the community will be made available to the sector once implementation details are worked through. This will reduce wait time for procedures such as minor gynaecological procedures, skin excisions, iron infusions, and oncology infusions.

    “Childhood immunisations are a key priority for this Government. We want to see 95 per cent of enrolled children fully immunised and we know GPs play a critical role in achieving that. That’s why this agreement includes performance payments for clinics that lift childhood immunisation rates by up to ten percentage points, or to 95 per cent of their enrolled population, with partial payment for partial achievement. 

    “This agreement marks a significant and positive step forward for the primary care system. It responds directly to consistent feedback from the sector over the past year about the need for a more sustainable and responsive funding model.

    “I expect this investment to deliver real results – including shorter wait times, easier access to care, and better health outcomes for patients.”

    The collection of more primary care data will further support a more effective funding approach and ensure resources are targeted at improving patient outcomes. 

    “This is part of the Government’s broader plan to rebuild and strengthen the foundations of our health system, with primary care at the centre, and to focus on performance and delivery.

    “This is the largest investment in general practice in decades – but more importantly, it’s tied to better results. Shorter wait times. Higher immunisation rates. More patients getting the care they need in the community. 

    “This is how you rebuild a health system – not with slogans, but with funding, focus, and delivery. 

    “I would like to thank the primary care sector representatives, including GenPro, GPNZ and Kāhui Tautoko who have worked with Health New Zealand in good faith on this record uplift,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Greens call on state to condemn US over ‘dangerous’ attack on Iran

    Asia Pacific Report

    New Zealand’s opposition Green Party has called on the government to condemn the United States for its illegal bombing of Iran and inflaming tensions across the Middle East.

    “The actions of the United States pose a fundamental threat to world peace,” said Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson in a statement.

    “The rest of the world — including New Zealand– must take a stand and make it clear that this dangerous escalation is unacceptable.

    “We are calling on the New Zealand government to condemn the United States for its attack on Iran. This attack is a blatant breach of international law and yet another unjustified assault on the Middle East from the US.”

    Davidson said the country had seen this with the US war on Iraq in 2003, and it was happening again with Sunday’s attack on Iran.

    “We are at risk of a violent history repeating itself,” she said.

    “[Prime Minister] Christopher Luxon needs to condemn this escalation from the US and rule out any participation in this conflict, or any of the elements of the AUKUS pact.

    Independent foreign policy
    “New Zealand must maintain its independent foreign policy position and keep its distance from countries that are actively fanning the flames of war.”

    Davidson said New Zealand had a long and proud history of standing up for human rights on the world stage.

    “When we stand strong and with other countries in calling for peace, we can make a difference. We cannot afford to be a bystander to the atrocities unfolding in front of our eyes.”

    It was time for the New Zealand government to step up.

    “It has failed to sanction Israel for its illegal and violent occupation of Palestine, and we risk burning all international credibility by failing to speak out against what the United States has just done.”

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister Luxon said New Zealand wanted to see a peaceful stable and secure Middle East, but more military action was not the answer, reports RNZ News.

    The UN Security Council met in emergency session today to discuss the US attack on the three key nuclear facilities.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the US bombing marked a “perilous turn” in a region already reeling.

    Iran called on the 15-member body to condemn what it called a “blatant and unlawful act of aggression”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ Greens call on state to condemn US over ‘dangerous’ attack on Iran

    Asia Pacific Report

    New Zealand’s opposition Green Party has called on the government to condemn the United States for its illegal bombing of Iran and inflaming tensions across the Middle East.

    “The actions of the United States pose a fundamental threat to world peace,” said Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson in a statement.

    “The rest of the world — including New Zealand– must take a stand and make it clear that this dangerous escalation is unacceptable.

    “We are calling on the New Zealand government to condemn the United States for its attack on Iran. This attack is a blatant breach of international law and yet another unjustified assault on the Middle East from the US.”

    Davidson said the country had seen this with the US war on Iraq in 2003, and it was happening again with Sunday’s attack on Iran.

    “We are at risk of a violent history repeating itself,” she said.

    “[Prime Minister] Christopher Luxon needs to condemn this escalation from the US and rule out any participation in this conflict, or any of the elements of the AUKUS pact.

    Independent foreign policy
    “New Zealand must maintain its independent foreign policy position and keep its distance from countries that are actively fanning the flames of war.”

    Davidson said New Zealand had a long and proud history of standing up for human rights on the world stage.

    “When we stand strong and with other countries in calling for peace, we can make a difference. We cannot afford to be a bystander to the atrocities unfolding in front of our eyes.”

    It was time for the New Zealand government to step up.

    “It has failed to sanction Israel for its illegal and violent occupation of Palestine, and we risk burning all international credibility by failing to speak out against what the United States has just done.”

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister Luxon said New Zealand wanted to see a peaceful stable and secure Middle East, but more military action was not the answer, reports RNZ News.

    The UN Security Council met in emergency session today to discuss the US attack on the three key nuclear facilities.

    UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the US bombing marked a “perilous turn” in a region already reeling.

    Iran called on the 15-member body to condemn what it called a “blatant and unlawful act of aggression”.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Making First Aid Training More Accessible: MediTrain Launches New Manual

    Source: Press Release Service

    Headline: Making First Aid Training More Accessible: MediTrain Launches New Manual

    MediTrain is proud to announce the release of its new First Aid Manual, Edition 5, part of a wider commitment to making first aid training accessible, engaging and effective for all learners across New Zealand.

    The post Making First Aid Training More Accessible: MediTrain Launches New Manual first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –