NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legislation – All workers will now be able to be fired at will – the Govt has no shame – PSA

    Source: PSA

    All workers will be in the firing line for instant dismissal regardless of circumstances under a law change now before Parliament.
    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brook van Velden has introduced the Employment Relations Amendment Bill which will make it harder for workers to bring personal grievance claims.
    “This is plainly and simply a fundamental erosion of workers’ rights to secure employment – the Minister is effectively giving employers the green light to fire workers at will,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “It will be virtually impossible for a worker to bring a successful personal grievance if unfairly sacked. This is a radical change for every workplace in New Zealand, again exposing the Government’s priority to make life easier for employers, harder for workers.
    “If a worker is dismissed unjustifiably, the only remedy is through a personal grievance. There is no problem here the Government is trying to solve. The current remedies are already very limited with reinstatement only being ordered in 16 cases at the Employment Relations Authority in 2024 according to their Annual Report.
    “But now the Bill will make it easier for employers to find a way to undermine any personal grievance claim by establishing some conduct by the worker that contributed to a dismissal.
    “Under the Bill, an employer will be able to amplify any conduct by the workers – it won’t be hard for some justification to be found to defend against the claim.
    “This is all about weakening any claim and discouraging a worker from bringing a claim in the first place. That will mean workers will find it much harder to be reinstated which is ultimately what most workers want or get compensation for hurt and humiliation.
    “The Minister trumpeted the changes as all about ‘labour market flexibility’. We heard the same thing in 1991 with the Employment Contracts Act which the Government then promised would increase productivity. That didn’t happen, it just stripped workers of rights and emboldened employers.
    “We are seeing the same playbook now with planned cuts to sick pay, pay equity, the 90-day fire at will law, weakening health and safety requirements for employers and the axing of Fair Pay Agreements.
    “That all amounts to less secure employment, lower wages and more dangerous workplaces.
    “The Government has no shame and workers across New Zealand will pay the price for that for years to come.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legislation – Radical employment bill threatens every NZ worker – CTU

    Source: Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi

    The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi is urging all political parties to vote against Brooke van Velden’s new Employment Relations Amendment Bill, as it will severely undermine workers’ rights.

    “This new Bill will legislate many of the attacks on workers’ rights signalled by Brooke van Velden, fundamentally undermining the rights of working people in New Zealand’s employment relations system,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff.

    “Following instruction from Uber’s corporate lobbyists, the Minister is wanting to prevent some of the most vulnerable and casualised workers who have been misclassified as contractors from being able to access their legal rights by taking cases to court. Government should not be blocking workers from court because corporates may not like the outcome.  

    “The personal grievance changes are also trying to tie the courts hands and prevent them from establishing justice for workers. They entrench power imbalances and leave workers facing unjustified dismissal with no statutory protection.

    “These changes threaten every single worker in Aotearoa. The right to seek remedies for unjustifiable and unlawful dismissal is a basic employment right and should not be diluted.

    “This Bill also legislates to remove the 30-day rule, which is another attempt undermine unions and protections that unions bring their members. Currently workers in a new role have the protection of any collective agreement in place for 30 days. Removing the rule will encourage employers to exploit workers when they are at their most vulnerable, and to lead a race to the bottom for wages and conditions.

    “The Bill heightens worker vulnerability to unjustifiable dismissal, shields employers from the consequences of mistreating workers, and drives people into insecure work. This is in the context of government policy that has caused largescale unemployment.

    “Parties across Parliament should vote down this radically unjust law and instead support working people and their families,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – New World Victoria Park fire

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand crews are responding to a fire at New World Victoria Park in Auckland.
    Crews were alerted by a fire alarm activation at 11.18am.
    As at 11.50am, there are 11 trucks and a Command Unit at the scene. The fire is not yet under control.
    All persons have been accounted for.
    The public is advised to avoid the area, with the roads around the supermarket closed. 
    Smoke is drifting up into Ponsonby area and towards Grey Lynn. Residents impacted by the smoke are advised to close their windows and doors and avoid going outside if possible.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealanders’ Asia knowledge peaks as regional relationships evolve – Asia NZ Foundation

    Source: Asia New Zealand Foundation

    The Asia New Zealand Foundation’s 28th annual Perceptions of Asia and Asian Peoples survey shows that New Zealanders are maintaining their commitment to and engagement in Asia while adapting to changing regional dynamics.
    “New Zealanders are becoming more discerning about regional relationships,” says Suzannah Jessep, Chief Executive of the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono. “Our conversations have shifted from “Asia” to conversations about the specific countries and sectors that we are engaged with. The report shows that today our ties across the Asia region are broader, deeper and more mutually beneficial than ever.”
    This year’s survey presents changes in views over the past year, as well as longitudinal tr

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Market – NZ housing market steadies as sentiment cautiously lifts – QV

    Source: Quality Valuation (QV)

    The rate of decline in the housing market has slowed again, with national residential property values largely holding steady throughout May.

    Our latest QV House Price Index shows nationwide values have inched up just 0.1% to a new national average of $913,772 in the May quarter. That figure is 1.1% lower than the same time last year and 14.1% below the market’s peak in late 2021.

    Across New Zealand’s main urban areas just Whangarei (3.2%), Hastings (1.1%), Nelson (1.1%), and Christchurch (1.3%), recorded average home value growth in excess of 1% throughout the three months to the end of May 2025. Hamilton (0.5%), and Tauranga (0.2%) values rose slightly. While Auckland (-0.5%), Wellington (-1.7%), Palmerston North (-0.9%), and Dunedin (-0.8%), recorded losses.

    QV operations manager James Wilson said, “The housing market is still softening, but doing so at a slowing pace with signs of tentative confidence beginning to surface.”

    “With interest rates easing and more owner-occupiers re-entering the market — particularly in the middle and upper-middle brackets — we’re observing a return to activity in the main urban centres. This has helped stabilise national values and reduced the number of areas experiencing declines.”

    “Investor activity is also picking up, especially in lower-value and regional markets. This, combined with steady demand from first-home buyers, is starting to generate subtle competitive pressures. However, high stock levels and cautious vendor expectations are still keeping price growth in check.”

    “Ongoing global uncertainty, including from US trade tariffs and escalating conflicts, along with local concerns about job security are still contributing to a climate of caution,” Mr Wilson said.

    “While we don’t expect a dramatic winter upswing, it’s likely we’ll see growing buyer engagement as confidence continues to build.”

    Download a high resolution version of the latest QV value map here.

    Northland

    The Northland market has seen an upswing in the second quarter of the year with values up 2.2% and the average value across the region is $738,936. Values are now 0.9% lower than they were in May last year, and 10.0% below the previous peak of late 2021.

    In the three months to May, the Far North rose 1.7% and the average home there is now worth $705,192. In Whangarei, the average value is $738,441 after a quarterly lift of 3.2%. While in Kaipara, it is $834,628 after a slight 0.1% lift over the quarter.

    Auckland

    The Auckland property market remains subdued and while overall momentum remains weak, there are signs of divergence emerging at the local level with some areas seeing growth. The average home across the Super City is now worth $1,240,029, 2.2% less than a year ago and 19.1% lower than the market’s peak in late 2021.

    In the May quarter values increased in Papakura (1.3%) and in the local council areas previously known as Auckland City (0.4%). Other parts of the super city saw values continue to decline over the quarter; Manukau (-1.2%); North Shore (-1.0%), Franklin (-0.9%), and Waitakere (-0.1%).

    Local QV Registered Valuer, Hugh Robson said, “Many Auckland suburbs continue to have high levels of housing stock on the market and agents report low attendance numbers at open homes and auctions.”
     
    “Despite this, there is increased activity from first time buyers, due to falling interest rates and mainly in medium to lower value areas and higher value suburbs are seeing less activity than lower value suburbs.”
     
    “New multi-unit developments continue to be built (with many developments just starting) and there’s a notable increase in investment properties on the market. The Auckland rental market appears to have stabilised with rents not rising or falling rather ‘flat-lining’ now.”
     
    Waikato

    The latest QV House Price Index shows Hamilton’s average home is now worth $791,909, with values bucking recent downward trend, rising 0.5% over the past three months. Values are now 0.5% higher than this time last year and 13.9% lower than the previous peak of late 2021.

    QV Property consultant Marshall Wu said, “Hamilton experienced a modest lift in home values during May and these gains coincide with stabilising listings levels, though a significant volume of unsold inventory continues to linger on the market.”

    “While easing mortgage rates, improving sentiment, and income growth are all supportive factors, they are being met with strong headwinds,” he said.

    “Persisting affordability challenges, rising unemployment, and softer population growth are all contributing to a more cautious outlook for would be buyers.”

    The Waikato region has also turned a corner, up 0.6% in the May quarter and home values are 0.5% higher than the same time last year. The average home value across the region is now $817,249.

    Hauraki values jumped 5.1% over the May quarter and are 6.1% year on year; while Thames/Coromandel rose 1.5% and Waikato District was up 0.5% over the past three months.  

    Waitomo District also continues to see values jump with a quarterly increase of 8.6%; Ōtorohanga and Waipa districts, also recorded gains of 4.6% and 0.8% respectively. While South Waikato values decreased 3.5% over the quarter.
     

    Bay of Plenty

    Home values rose in Tauranga by 0.2% over the past three months. The city’s average home value is now $1,002,458, which is 0.8% lower than at the same time last year.

    The Bay of Plenty region saw a 0.1% quarterly decrease to a new average value of $886,186 which is 0.5% lower than a year ago. Gisborne saw quarterly growth of 0.5%, Kawerau District rose 0.3%. In contrast, Opotiki District saw the largest drop in the region, with a 3-month decline of 5.7%, while Whakatane was also down 1.5%, and Rotorua held relatively steady dipping just 0.1%.

    Hawkes Bay

    Napier City home values rose 0.4% over the past three months to a new average value of $760,109 which is 0.7% lower year on year. Hastings values rose 1.1% over the past three months to a new average of $768,689 which is 3.1% lower than the same time last year.

    Wairoa has seen one of the highest increases in the country rising 7.4% in the three months to May and 10.8% year on year to a new average value of $447,895. While, Central Hawke’s Bay experienced the greatest downward trend in the region, dropping 5.1% over the quarter and 7.2% year on year with a new average value of $532,315.
     

    Taranaki

    Home values in New Plymouth are down 0.3% in the May quarter and are 0.4% higher year on year. The average home there is now worth $723,486. Meanwhile, values shot up by 7.0% in South Taranaki over the quarter to May to a new average value of $447,255; while Stratford edged up 0.3% to $476,773.

    QV Local Registered Valuer, Danny Grace said, “The residential property market in New Plymouth is more stable with improved levels of activity over the recent months, more interest from buyers, and agents are feeling more confident.”
     
    “The lower end of the market is more active, with less interest in the higher priced properties. Values in Stratford and South Taranaki are also more stable, but activity in New Plymouth is stronger,” he said.
     
    Palmerston North

    Home values in Palmerston North dipped 0.9% over the May quarter and homes there are now worth on average $632,309, which is 1.3% lower than this time last year.

    Local QV Registered Valuer Olivia Betts said, “The market remains steady, with minimal price fluctuations. February and March saw a notable increase in new listings, giving buyers more options and greater leverage. This boost in inventory was accompanied by a rise in sales activity—an expected trend ahead of the quieter autumn and winter months.”

    “A clear divide continues to emerge between different property types. Homes with outdated features are proving harder to sell and tend to stay on the market longer. In contrast, renovated properties with modern amenities are in higher demand, particularly among buyers seeking convenience and updated living spaces,” she said.

    “This preference is especially strong among first-home buyers targeting homes in the mid-$500K range, ideally built or refurbished within the last 20 years.”

    “Overall, while the market is experiencing a slight softening, it remains balanced. A typical seasonal slowdown is anticipated through winter, with increased activity expected to return in spring.”

    Wairarapa

    Home values are rising in some areas and continuing to decrease in others in the Wairarapa region.

    Our latest QV House Price Index shows Masterton’s average home value has reduced by 1.3% this quarter to $571,778. Carterton’s average home rose in value by 2.1% to $634,158 and home values in South Wairarapa reduced by 1.2% to a new average of $747,407. The average home across the region is now worth $623,103, 2.3% less than the same time last year.

    Wellington

    Residential property values have continued their downward trend across Wellington this quarter. The region’s average home value decreased by 1.4% to $829,215, which is 4.9% lower year on year and 25.4% below the previous peak of late 2021. All the areas saw values decrease over the May quarter: Wellington City fell 1.8%; Hutt City was down 2.3%; Porirua dropped 1.4%; and Upper Hutt dipped slightly by 0.2%.

    QV Senior Consultant, David Cornford said, “Values have tracked backwards slightly over the last few months in the Wellington region and the market continues to be relatively soft as we head into the winter months.”
     
    “Despite interest rates now being significantly lower, these rate drops have not correlated to an increase in property values and it’s likely the region will require economic conditions to improve before we see a strengthening market,” he said.
     
    “There continues to be ample properties on the market giving buyers, plenty of choice. First home buyers are active, while there is a lack of activity from investors.”

    Nelson-Tasman-Marlborough

    Values in Nelson are bucking the downward trend seen in many other main centres, recording quarterly growth of 1.1% and 3.2% year on year. The average home in the city is now worth $802,332.

    Tasman values also rose 1.0% over the quarter to a new average of $823,131, while Marlborough posted a slight quarterly increase of 0.8%, with homes there on average worth $700,892.

    QV Nelson/Marlborough manager Craig Russell said in Nelson and Tasman the majority of activity is in the $500,000-$800,000 price bracket. “Often there are multiple offers and the majority of purchasers in this price bracket are first home buyers.”
     
    “A number of investors are selling properties which they’ve held as rentals for a number of years which is likely due to these investors wanting to free up capital, or obtain better returns elsewhere, after a period of no capital growth,” he said.
     
    “The number of properties on the market remains elevated as we enter the seasonal downturn in activity. Section sales are slow, particularly in hillside suburbs as high building costs restrict buyers.”

    West Coast

    Housing figures continue to fluctuate from month to month and quarter to quarter on the West Coast.

    Our QV House Price Index for May shows the Westcoast region saw values rise 3.9% over the past three months to a new average value of $433,345 which is a 4.6% increase year on year and 18.8% higher than the nationwide market peak of late 2021.

    Average home values in Buller were up 10.5% over the past three months to $384,407, while Westland also rose 4.3% to $474,046; while values in Grey dipped 0.2% to $446,520.

    Canterbury

    Christchurch’s average home values rose 1.3% in the May quarter to $779,866. This is an annual increase of 1.2% values are now 1.8% higher than the previous nationwide peak of late 2021.

    Hurunui values saw a quarterly increase of 0.7% to a new average of $645,936, which is 1.8% lower year on year. While Waimakariri recorded a modest increase of 0.2% to an average value of $720,376 which is 0.7% higher than in May last year.

    Local QV registered valuer, Olivia Brownie said, “The property market in the Canterbury Region remains stable, with buyers showing commitment to purchases and sellers pricing realistically. We continue to see a small consistent positive market movement across the region as a whole.”

    “Whilst the rate of new listings coming onto the market is cooling down, there are still strong sales with ample listings and stable prices benefiting both parties with time and choice,” she said.

    “More recently the most active buyer groups have been mortgaged owners and investors as lending and borrowing conditions have eased.”

    Dunedin

    Our QV House Price Index for May 2025 shows values have dipped (-0.8%) over the past quarter and (-0.9%) year on year. The average home is now worth $640,125 which is 11.5% lower than the peak of late 2021.

    Local QV Registered Valuer Baylan Connolly said, “The townhouse market continues to see the trend away from investors to owner occupiers with the majority of townhouse developments being focused in the higher valuer areas in the city including Belleknowes, Roslyn, Maori Hill, and the fringes of Andersons Bay.”
     
    “The South Dunedin Future initiative, a joint effort between the Dunedin City Council (DCC) and Otago Regional Council (ORC), recently released a detailed hazard assessment and a long-term strategy outlining multibillion-dollar adaptation options,” he said.

    “While developers acknowledged this work, they emphasised the need for concrete action to restore market confidence. The rising cost of insurance, especially in flood-prone areas, is a major consideration for buyers, investors, and developers. Higher insurance premiums are discouraging development in high-risk areas and increasing demand for properties in elevated suburbs.”

    “The gradual reinstatement of interest deductibility is improving investor sentiment, though it has not yet led to a full resurgence in investment demand.”

    Queenstown

    Our QV House Price Index for May shows the average value in the Queenstown Lakes District remains the highest in Aotearoa, New Zealand despite a downward trend emerging in the market there. Values dipped 0.3% over the past three months and 0.7% year on year. However, the average value of $1,815,797 is 13.5% higher than the nationwide market peak of late 2021 and remains well above all other regions in the country.

    QV Local Registered Valuer Greg Simpson said the local property market has remained active and generally steady over the past 12 months, despite broader national uncertainty.

    “Sales volumes are increasing alongside inventory levels, and average residential values have held firm in both Queenstown and Central Otago. However, market conditions remain sensitive to economic headwinds, with tighter credit conditions and ongoing caution among buyers,” Mr Simpson said.

    The surrounding areas are seeing positive quarterly value growth including Central Otago up (2.4%) and Clutha up (3.1%); and Waitaki up (1.5%).

    Southland

    Invercargill values rose 1.3% over the past three months to an average value of $506,888, which is 4.2% higher year on year, and 3.9% higher than the previous peak.

    While in Gore, values increased 8.8% over the quarter to $439,670 which is 4.2% higher than a year ago. And in Southland values dipped 0.7% over the past three months to $533,255 but are 5.0% higher than a year ago.

    QV Registered Valuer Andrew Ronald said, “There is strong demand from first home buyers in the $350,000 to $500,000 bracket in the Invercargill market. We also seeing an increasing interest from investors and recent rent rises have now stabilised. Meanwhile, there’s been limited demand from buyers in the upper end of the market in price range above $1,000,000.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire in Freemans Bay

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police has been advised of a fire at a central Auckland supermarket on College Hill, Freemans Bay.

    Fire and Emergency NZ are currently leading the response.

    “Our advice is for the public to avoid the immediate area while emergency services are in attendance,” acting Inspector Ian Scoulding says.

    “We would also ask residents in the nearby area to close their windows at this time.”

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Legislation – Employment bill clarifies modern grey areas – BusinessNZ

    Source: BusinessNZ

    BusinessNZ supports the introduction of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill, saying the changes will have a positive impact across New Zealand’s economy.
    Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard says the Bill should provide more certainty, particularly around contract-based work.
    “In clarifying the employee-contractor distinction through the previously announced gateway test, the Amendment Bill will simplify chosen working arrangements for all parties involved.
    “The personal grievance process is being simplified, preventing the likelihood of rewarding poor employee behaviour. A system that increasingly fines employers for trying to deal with poor performance or serious misconduct including theft, fraud and even violence, is one that clearly needs fixing.
    “It also makes sense to tidy up the 30-day rule introduced under the previous Government, which saw new employees automatically classed as union members if there is a collective agreement, for the first 30 days – whether they wanted to or not.
    “In reality, the 30-day rule is a compliance headache for employers and employees alike, and is something that BusinessNZ has argued should be removed.
    “The issues being addressed in this Amendment Bill have been flagged as a drag on productivity and flexibility by businesses. The BusinessNZ Network has been advocating for these changes for some time, and it’s encouraging to see that Minister van Velden is listening to business owners’ concerns during what remains a difficult time to be operating.
    “BusinessNZ looks forward to working further with the Minister on workplace issues to improve our economy and make New Zealand an even better place to be.”
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Radical employment bill threatens every NZ worker

    Source: NZCTU

    The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi is urging all political parties to vote against Brooke van Velden’s new Employment Relations Amendment Bill, as it will severely undermine workers’ rights.

    “This new Bill will legislate many of the attacks on workers’ rights signalled by Brooke van Velden, fundamentally undermining the rights of working people in New Zealand’s employment relations system,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff.

    “Following instruction from Uber’s corporate lobbyists, the Minister is wanting to prevent some of the most vulnerable and casualised workers who have been misclassified as contractors from being able to access their legal rights by taking cases to court. Government should not be blocking workers from court because corporates may not like the outcome. 

    “The personal grievance changes are also trying to tie the courts hands and prevent them from establishing justice for workers. They entrench power imbalances and leave workers facing unjustified dismissal with no statutory protection.

    “These changes threaten every single worker in Aotearoa. The right to seek remedies for unjustifiable and unlawful dismissal is a basic employment right and should not be diluted.

    “This Bill also legislates to remove the 30-day rule, which is another attempt undermine unions and protections that unions bring their members. Currently workers in a new role have the protection of any collective agreement in place for 30 days. Removing the rule will encourage employers to exploit workers when they are at their most vulnerable, and to lead a race to the bottom for wages and conditions.

    “The Bill heightens worker vulnerability to unjustifiable dismissal, shields employers from the consequences of mistreating workers, and drives people into insecure work. This is in the context of government policy that has caused largescale unemployment.

    “Parties across Parliament should vote down this radically unjust law and instead support working people and their families,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand hosts Asia Pacific privacy regulators

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy authorities from 14 jurisdictions met last week to share information on emerging technology and challenges to privacy regulation.

    The Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities (APPA) Forum provides privacy authorities in our region with an opportunity to form partnerships and to discuss best practices.

    Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster, who chaired the two-day forum, says it’s important that common privacy issues and challenges can be discussed with other privacy authorities.

    “The APPA Forum is a great way to learn about the efforts other jurisdictions are making to anticipate and regulate global privacy disruptors such as AI and biometrics, as well as exchanging ideas about privacy regulation and the management of privacy breaches.”

    “Emerging technologies are an issue we all face, and there are several different approaches to how the associated privacy challenges are managed. The APPA Forum helps us all learn from our various experiences.”

    Issues discussed at APPA 63 included Artificial Intelligence, the use of biometrics for retail crime and public safety, and the importance of ensuring privacy regulation is fit for purpose in the digital age.

    APPA was formed in 1992 and is the principal forum for privacy and data protection authorities in the Asia Pacific region. Members meet twice a year to discuss and focus on different topical issues. Each year one of the forums is virtual, and one is in person. New Zealand hosted the 2025 virtual forum (APPA 63) on 11-12 June.

    Past topics discussed include cross-border privacy rules, children’s online privacy, employee surveillance, artificial intelligence, and privacy-enhancing technologies.

    The 14 jurisdictions that attended APPA 63 were Australia and the states of New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, Canada and the state of British Columbia, the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions of China, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore and the state of California from the United States of America.

    The full communique for APPA 63 is available here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Food prices increase 4.4 percent annually – Stats NZ media and information release: Selected price indexes: May 2025

    Food prices increase 4.4 percent annually – media release

    17 June 2025

    Food prices increased 4.4 percent in the 12 months to May 2025, following a 3.7 percent increase in the 12 months to April 2025, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    Higher prices for the grocery food group and the meat, poultry, and fish group contributed most to the annual increase in food prices, up 5.2 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively.

    “All five food groups recorded an annual price increase in May,” prices and deflators spokesperson Nicola Growden said.

    The price increase for the grocery food group was due to higher prices for milk, butter, and cheese.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Pharmac Chief Executive welcomed

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour has welcomed Natalie McMurtry as Pharmac’s Chief Executive.

    Natalie McMurtry will start as Pharmac’s Chief Executive on Monday 15 September, taking over from the Acting Chief Executive, Brendan Boyle.

    “For the first time, Pharmac has its own Minister. Last year I outlined in my letter of expectations that Pharmac should have appropriate processes for ensuring that people living with an illness, along with their carers and family, can participate in and provide input into decision-making processes around medicines – this is committed to in the Act-National Coalition Agreement,” Mr Seymour says. 

    “Since then, the culture shift at Pharmac has been positive. It has moved towards a more adaptable and patient-centered approach to funding medicines. My expectation is that this will continue.

    “This is in part thanks to the culture review Pharmac undertook to ensure their internal processes weren’t getting in the way of their job – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders.

    “Pharmac also conducted a consumer engagement workshop. Patients groups were invited to discuss how they should be consulted in decision-making processes. I look forward to seeing this in practice. 

    “Pharmac are learning from their experiences and making changes where necessary. For example, the community let Pharmac know that they weren’t consulted enough on the original oestradiol decision. In response, Pharmac added a consultation step to its annual tender process to seek feedback when considering a medicine brand change.  

    “The appointment of Natalie McMurtry is another positive step towards a Pharmac which works for the people it serves. I look forward to working alongside her as we look to cement positive change, and continue to move towards a more transparent, inclusive and people-focused organisation.”

    Natalie McMurtry is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 25 years of experience as a frontline clinician and senior leader in Canada. Natalie has held several executive roles within Alberta Health Services, including Vice President of Provincial Clinical Excellence.

    “The Government is doing its part. Last year we allocated Pharmac its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, and a $604 million uplift to give Pharmac the financial support it needs to carry out its functions – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders,” Mr Seymour says. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT Emeritus Professor awarded OBE in King’s Birthday Honours

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

    5 minutes ago

    EIT Emeritus Professor (One Welfare) Nat Waran has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to equine welfare, research and education, in the United Kingdom’s King’s Birthday Honours list.

    The prestigious honour was announced on June 13 in the United Kingdom and recognises Professor Waran’s global contribution to equine welfare through education, research and advocacy.

    EIT Emeritus Professor Nat Waran has been awarded an OBE in the UK King’s Birthday Honours for her services to equine welfare, research and education.

    Professor Waran, who previously served as Executive Dean at the Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT), said the award was an unexpected but deeply meaningful recognition.

    “This reflects not only my work but, most importantly, the collaborative efforts of colleagues, students and organisations who have worked so hard to advance horse welfare and better understand their needs,” she said.

    “EIT has played a significant part in this achievement by supporting my animal welfare work, both during my time as Executive Dean and now as an Emeritus Professor.”

    Originally from the United Kingdom, Professor Waran began her academic career at the University of Edinburgh, where she launched the world’s first postgraduate programme in animal behaviour and welfare. Over the decades, her academic and advocacy work has taken her across continents, influencing education and practice in both developed and developing countries.

    At EIT, she championed the One Welfare framework, which recognises the interconnected wellbeing of animals, people and the environment. She also led major research initiatives and supported global collaboration in animal welfare science.

    Professor Waran remains based in Hawke’s Bay and is Director of the Good Life for Animals Centre at Companion Animals New Zealand. Her current work includes international research on equine emotion and welfare, the role of exercise in canine wellbeing and the impact of indoor living on cats.

    “I’ve always been driven by a deep commitment to improving animal welfare. I don’t need an award to stay passionate about the work, but I do hope this recognition helps bring greater visibility to the importance of research, education and compassion in how we treat animals around the world.”

    EIT Operations Lead Glen Harkness congratulated Professor Waran on her achievement.

    “Nat has achieved remarkable success across multiple domains, but her transformative work in equine welfare stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to evidence-based practice,” he said.

    “Her contributions at EIT and internationally have not only improved animal welfare standards but have fundamentally shaped how we educate, advocate and innovate in this space.”

    Professor Waran is expected to travel to the UK later this year to receive the honour at an official investiture ceremony.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Chief Executive for Pharmac

    Source: PHARMAC

    Pharmac’s Board has appointed a new Chief Executive to lead the organisation.

    Canadian Natalie McMurtry will join Pharmac on Monday 15 September after an extensive recruitment search within New Zealand and overseas.

    Board Chair Paula Bennett says Ms McMurtry brings significant front-line and health leadership experience to the Pharmac role.

    “The level of interest in this role and the calibre of applicants was really high but in the end the Board was impressed by Natalie McMurtry’s depth of strategic and operational experience, intelligence, people focus and empathetic approach.

    “This is exactly what Pharmac needs as a more transparent, inclusive and outward-focused organisation.”

    Natalie McMurtry is currently the Chief Transition Officer responsible for launching a new Acute Care Agency in Alberta, Canada. Prior to that she was the Assistant Deputy Minister for Pharmaceutical and Supplementary Health Benefits with the Alberta Government. She began her career as a paediatric critical care pharmacist at the Stollery Children’s Hospital in Edmonton and has since held a variety of strategic and operational roles across the health system. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in pharmacy from Dalhousie University and an MBA in Innovation Leadership.

    She says she is looking forward to joining Pharmac.

    “I am honoured and excited to be joining the Pharmac team at such a pivotal time. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to an organisation that plays such a vital role in the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders.”

    Ms McMurtry will replace Acting Chief Executive Brendan Boyle, who was appointed for a fixed term while recruitment was underway to fill the vacancy left by former Chief Executive Sarah Fitt. Paula Bennett thanked Brendan Boyle for his work in the interim.

    “We have been very fortunate to have his extensive public sector experience available to lay strong foundations for the new Chief Executive.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Targeted action on suicide prevention

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has today launched the Government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan which sets out a five-year whole-of-government approach to preventing suicide in New Zealand.

    “I want to acknowledge the people who have lost their lives to suicide, those struggling with their mental health or addiction, and those with lived experience or who have been affected by suicide,” Mr Doocey says.

    “New Zealand continues to face stubbornly high suicide rates. Last year, 617 people died by suspected suicide. Behind that number are grieving families, friends, colleagues, and communities.

    “What sets this Plan apart from the last is the actions in the Plan are now focused on delivery with clear milestones, completion dates, and importantly an accountable agency.

    “There are 21 health-led new actions and 13 cross-agency new actions in the Plan. The actions overall aim is to improve access to suicide prevention and postvention supports, grow a workforce that is able to support those at risk of, or affected by suicide, and strengthen our focus on prevention and early intervention.

    “I am particularly proud that this plan is grounded in lived experience. More than 400 people and organisations contributed to the consultation process, including many who have experienced distress themselves or lost someone to suicide. Their insights shaped these actions and helped ensure we are targeting the right areas.

    “Some key actions include by the end of this year establishing a new suicide prevention community fund. This will provide targeted support that is focused on populations experiencing higher rates of suicidal distress.

    “We know one of the biggest barriers to support is our workforce. The Plan includes initiatives that will grow our workforce, such as by expanding suicide prevention training and strengthening existing resources to better equip workforces, communities and families.

    “We want people to receive care in the community instead of resorting to an emergency department, that is why by the end of next June, we will have rolled out six crisis recovery cafés that will provide more options for people experiencing distress.

    “However, for those who are presenting to emergency departments in mental distress, by the end of December we will establish peer support roles in eight emergency departments for people presenting with mental health and addiction needs.”

    Implementation of the action plan will be supported by existing suicide prevention investment of $20 million per year, plus allocation of an additional $16 million per year to improve access to mental health and suicide prevention supports through initiatives identified in the Plan.

    “There is hope and a way forward. Suicide is preventable and we have a duty as a Government, and as a country, to do more to ensure all New Zealanders have the access and support they need to heal and go on to live the life they deserve,” Mr  Doocey says.The Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey has today launched the Government’s Suicide Prevention Action Plan which sets out a five-year whole-of-government approach to preventing suicide in New Zealand.

     “I want to acknowledge the people who have lost their lives to suicide, those struggling with their mental health or addiction, and those with lived experience or who have been affected by suicide,” Mr Doocey says.

    “New Zealand continues to face stubbornly high suicide rates. Last year, 617 people died by suspected suicide. Behind that number are grieving families, friends, colleagues, and communities.

     “What sets this Plan apart from the last is the actions in the Plan are now focused on delivery with clear milestones, completion dates, and importantly an accountable agency.

     “There are 21 health-led new actions and 13 cross-agency new actions in the Plan. The actions overall aim is to improve access to suicide prevention and postvention supports, grow a workforce that is able to support those at risk of, or affected by suicide, and strengthen our focus on prevention and early intervention.

     “I am particularly proud that this plan is grounded in lived experience. More than 400 people and organisations contributed to the consultation process, including many who have experienced distress themselves or lost someone to suicide. Their insights shaped these actions and helped ensure we are targeting the right areas.

    “Some key actions include by the end of this year establishing a new suicide prevention community fund. This will provide targeted support that is focused on populations experiencing higher rates of suicidal distress.

    “We know one of the biggest barriers to support is our workforce. The Plan includes initiatives that will grow our workforce, such as by expanding suicide prevention training and strengthening existing resources to better equip workforces, communities and families.

     “We want people to receive care in the community instead of resorting to an emergency department, that is why by the end of next June, we will have rolled out six crisis recovery cafés that will provide more options for people experiencing distress.

     “However, for those who are presenting to emergency departments in mental distress, by the end of December we will establish peer support roles in eight emergency departments for people presenting with mental health and addiction needs.”

     Implementation of the action plan will be supported by existing suicide prevention investment of $20 million per year, plus allocation of an additional $16 million per year to improve access to mental health and suicide prevention supports through initiatives identified in the Plan.

     “There is hope and a way forward. Suicide is preventable and we have a duty as a Government, and as a country, to do more to ensure all New Zealanders have the access and support they need to heal and go on to live the life they deserve,” Mr  Doocey says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two arrested after Birkenhead aggravated robbery

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police pulled out all the stops after a man was allegedly carjacked on the North Shore early this morning.

    Two offenders face serious charges after being arrested in Manukau.

    At around 1.22am, Police were called to Waratah Street in Birkenhead.

    “A man was parked outside an address, when a stolen vehicle carrying a group of offenders arrived,” Detective Senior Sergeant Megan Goldie, of Waitematā Crime Squad, says.

    “The victim was assaulted and pulled from his vehicle, before it was stolen by these offenders.”

    The vehicle was soon picked up on cameras on the North-Western motorway, heading west.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Goldie says the Police Eagle helicopter also deployed and monitored the vehicle’s movements.

    “It carried onto the South-Western motorway, stopping briefly on Dominion Road where two passengers exited and carried on southbound,” she says.

    Spikes were successfully deployed on the Lambie Drive off-ramp.

    “Our staff took both remaining occupants into custody quickly and without incident,” Detective Senior Sergeant Goldie says.

    “Those arrested were the 16-year-old driver and 17-year-old passenger.

    “Both vehicles involved in the offending this morning have been seized and will be examined.”

    In the vehicle dumped in Birkenhead, Police have located a range of items stolen from other car break-ins across the Albany area.

    Both males arrested this morning will face the North Shore Youth Court, charged with aggravated robbery.

    The driver will also face a charge of dangerous driving.

    Police will oppose both teenagers’ bail when they appear in court.

    “There is no tolerance for the blatant violence that occurred, and I want to acknowledge the raft of Police staff that responded this morning,” Detective Senior Sergeant Goldie says.

    “The victim in this case did not suffer serious physical injuries, and enquiries are ongoing into the two passengers that exited near Dominion Road.”

    ENDS. 

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Vapes stores go dark, disposable vapes banned

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Vaping law changes that take effect today ban disposable vapes and will make a noticeable difference to shop fronts and the marketing of vaping products, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello says.
    “This coalition Government committed to tackling youth vaping, and we’ve made practical changes to reduce the appeal of vaping to young people and to target retailers who sell vapes and tobacco products to our youth,” Ms Costello says.
    “Today’s changes implement the final parts of legislation passed in December.
    “Disposable vapes, which have been the most popular products among young people, are now off the market.”
    Penalties for breaching the ban are up to $400,000 for a manufacturer, importer or large retailer, and $50,000 for any other person.  
    “Visibility restrictions also take effect today, which will change the way specialist vape stores look and mean that retailers like dairies, supermarkets and petrol stations need to have vape products out of sight,” Ms Costello says.
    “Similarly, online stores will no longer be able to include images of vape products and New Zealand-based online stores are prevented from linking to overseas sites that have images of vaping products.”
    The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products Amendment Bill (No 2) that was passed in December had four main components:

    banning the manufacture, sale, supply, and distribution of disposable vapes
    increasing penalties for unlawful sales of vapes, cigarettes and other regulated products to minors
    imposing retail visibility restrictions for vaping products
    adding further proximity restrictions for specialist vape retailers.

    The increased penalties for selling vapes to minors, and restrictions on where specialist vape stores can open took effect at the time.
    The commencement of the disposable vape ban and the retail visibility restrictions were delayed six months to allow time for businesses to prepare for the changes.
    “This also allowed for the recruitment and training of more dedicated smokefree enforcement officers – there are now 18 – so that the new rules and tougher penalties are supported by greater enforcement capability,” Ms Costello says.
    “For too long, New Zealand didn’t have vaping regulations in place. 
    “Vaping has played a key role in helping people quit smoking, and we want vapes available to adults as a cessation tool, but vaping isn’t for children and young people and that’s why the Government has taken action.”  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy Sector – A Frank Discussion About Losing Your Spark

    Source: NZ Compare

    -Spark announces another broadband price hike just as winter power bills hit Kiwi wallets.
    -Frank Energy is closing – adding more pressure to household budgets.
    -NZ Compare sees record-breaking traffic as over 50,000 Kiwis seek better deals this month.
    As winter power bills hit and broadband prices spike, NZ Compare is urging Kiwis to take control of their household bills.
    The cost-of-living crisis continues on a relentless march and Kiwi households are being hit with a one-two punch: the first hefty winter power bills have landed, and Spark, New Zealand’s largest broadband provider, has announced yet another round of broadband price hikes. Meanwhile, last week Frank Energy customers have been told the brand is closing, and they’ll be moved to parent company Genesis Energy, which will likely come with an increase in the size of the household power bill. For consumers already feeling the financial squeeze, it’s just more frustrating news-and a reminder that loyalty often comes at a price.
    But there is hope for those willing to take action. In response to these developments, NZ Compare, the country’s leading comparison platform for utilities and services, is seeing record traffic. Last week alone, the group’s websites experienced their highest-ever weekly traffic, and more than 50,000 New Zealanders have already used the platforms during June to compare broadband, power, and mobile deals.
    “This is exactly the time when people need to take control,” says Gavin Male, CEO of NZ Compare. “Just as that first big winter power bill hits your wallet, Spark is turning up the heat with fibre broadband price increases. You don’t have to sit back and take it. There are some really competitive deals out there and if you are already on a fibre broadband connection, switching provider is incredibly simple.”
    Spark’s latest price increases follow a broader industry trend of rising costs being passed on to customers, often with little warning. Many consumers, like those previously with Frank Energy, are left scrambling for alternatives.
    “Whether you’re dealing with Spark bumping up your fibre broadband bill or a power provider charging more for the same, it’s time to stop paying the loyalty tax,” continues Male. “These companies rely on customers staying passive. The bill apathy has got to stop! By comparing and switching, you’re not only saving money-you’re putting pressure on the market and these companies to stay competitive.”
    The team at NZ Compare says now is the perfect time to reassess. Using tools like Broadband Compare, Power Compare, and Mobile Compare, Kiwis can easily find a better plan that matches their household’s usage and budget. And the process is free, fast, and transparent.
    “New Zealanders are savvy, and they deserve better,” says Male. “Every time someone switches, it s

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Bill to boost labour market flexibility

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says amendments to the Employment Relations Act will improve labour market flexibility and help businesses to grow, innovate, and employ with confidence and certainty.
    “Today I’m announcing the introduction of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill to Parliament, marking a key milestone in this Government’s efforts to help New Zealand businesses employ or contract with confidence and create more and better opportunities for workers,” says Ms van Velden. 
    The changes give effect to several ACT–National Coalition Agreement commitments, including to provide greater certainty for contracting parties.
    “Workers and businesses should have more certainty about the type of work being done from the moment they agree to a contracting arrangement.
    “The new gateway test introduced in this Bill will provide greater clarity for businesses and workers around the distinction between employment and contracting arrangements. This will provide greater certainty for all parties and will allow more innovative business models,” says Ms van Velden. 
    The Bill will also make changes to simplify the personal grievances process including two significant changes. 
    “The amendment to personal grievances will reduce rewards for bad behaviour and reduce costs for businesses in the process. Under current law, if a personal grievance is established the Employment Relations Authority or Employment Court may award remedies including reinstatement into a role, and compensation for hurt and humiliation. The changes make clear an employee whose behaviour amounts to serious misconduct will be ineligible for remedies. 
    “This change will ensure that hardworking New Zealanders don’t see bad behaviour rewarded,” says Ms van Velden. 
    The Bill also introduces an income threshold of $180,000 above which a personal grievance for unjustified dismissal cannot be pursued. 
    High-income employees often have a major impact on organisational performance, getting the right fit is crucial. This change will provide greater labour market flexibility, enabling businesses to ensure they have the best fit of skills and abilities for their organisation. It allows employers to give workers a go in high impact positions, without having to risk a costly and disruptive dismissal process if things don’t work out, benefitting those seeking to move up the career ladder.” 
    Another change will cut compliance at the beginning of employment. By removing the ‘30-day rule’ employers and employees will now be free to negotiate mutually beneficial terms and conditions from the start of employment. 
    “I am committed to building business confidence, ensuring a strong economy that will lift wages, create opportunities, and help Kiwi workers get ahead,” says Ms van Velden.
    The public and interested groups will have a chance to submit on the Bill when it is at Select Committee. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Be brave’ warning to nations against deepsea mining from UNOC

    By Laura Bergamo in Nice, France

    The UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) concluded today with significant progress made towards the ratification of the High Seas Treaty and a strong statement on a new plastics treaty signed by 95 governments.

    Once ratified, it will be the only legal tool that can create protected areas in international waters, making it fundamental to protecting 30 percent of the world’s oceans by 2030.

    Fifty countries, plus the European Union, have now ratified the Treaty.

    New Zealand has signed but is yet to ratify.

    Deep sea mining rose up the agenda in the conference debates, demonstrating the urgency of opposing this industry.

    The expectation from civil society and a large group of states, including both co-hosts of UNOC, was that governments would make progress towards stopping deep sea mining in Nice.

    UN Secretary-General Guterres said the deep sea should not become the “wild west“.

    Four new pledges
    French President Emmanuel Macron said a deep sea mining moratorium is an international necessity. Four new countries pledged their support for a moratorium at UNOC, bringing the total to 37.

    Attention now turns to what actions governments will take in July to stop this industry from starting.

    Megan Randles, Greenpeace head of delegation regarding the High Seas Treaty and progress towards stopping deep sea mining, said: “High Seas Treaty ratification is within touching distance, but the progress made here in Nice feels hollow as this UN Ocean Conference ends without more tangible commitments to stopping deep sea mining.

    “We’ve heard lots of fine words here in Nice, but these need to turn into tangible action.

    “Countries must be brave, stand up for global cooperation and make history by stopping deep sea mining this year.

    “They can do this by committing to a moratorium on deep sea mining at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting.

    “We applaud those who have already taken a stand, and urge all others to be on the right side of history by stopping deep sea mining.”

    Attention on ISA meeting
    Following this UNOC, attention now turns to the International Seabed Authority (ISA) meetings in July. In the face of The Metals Company teaming up with US President Donald Trump to mine the global oceans, the upcoming ISA provides a space where governments can come together to defend the deep ocean by adopting a moratorium to stop this destructive industry.

    Negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty resume in August.

    John Hocevar, oceans campaign director, Greenpeace USA said: “The majority of countries have spoken when they signed on to the Nice Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty that they want an agreement that will reduce plastic production. Now, as we end the UN Ocean Conference and head on to the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations in Geneva this August, they must act.

    “The world cannot afford a weak treaty dictated by oil-soaked obstructionists.

    “The ambitious majority must rise to this moment, firmly hold the line and ensure that we will have a Global Plastic Treaty that cuts plastic production, protects human health, and delivers justice for Indigenous Peoples and communities on the frontlines.

    “Governments need to show that multilateralism still works for people and the planet, not the profits of a greedy few.”

    Driving ecological collapse
    Nichanan Thantanwit, project leader, Ocean Justice Project, said: “Coastal and Indigenous communities, including small-scale fishers, have protected the ocean for generations. Now they are being pushed aside by industries driving ecological collapse and human rights violations.

    “As the UN Ocean Conference ends, governments must recognise small-scale fishers and Indigenous Peoples as rights-holders, secure their access and role in marine governance, and stop destructive practices such as bottom trawling and harmful aquaculture.

    “There is no ocean protection without the people who have protected it all along.”

    The anticipated Nice Ocean Action Plan, which consists of a political declaration and a series of voluntary commitments, will be announced later today at the end of the conference.

    None will be legally binding, so governments need to act strongly during the next ISA meeting in July and at plastic treaty negotiations in August.

    Republished from Greenpeace Aotearoa with permission.

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Be brave’ warning to nations against deepsea mining from UNOC

    By Laura Bergamo in Nice, France

    The UN Ocean Conference (UNOC) concluded today with significant progress made towards the ratification of the High Seas Treaty and a strong statement on a new plastics treaty signed by 95 governments.

    Once ratified, it will be the only legal tool that can create protected areas in international waters, making it fundamental to protecting 30 percent of the world’s oceans by 2030.

    Fifty countries, plus the European Union, have now ratified the Treaty.

    New Zealand has signed but is yet to ratify.

    Deep sea mining rose up the agenda in the conference debates, demonstrating the urgency of opposing this industry.

    The expectation from civil society and a large group of states, including both co-hosts of UNOC, was that governments would make progress towards stopping deep sea mining in Nice.

    UN Secretary-General Guterres said the deep sea should not become the “wild west“.

    Four new pledges
    French President Emmanuel Macron said a deep sea mining moratorium is an international necessity. Four new countries pledged their support for a moratorium at UNOC, bringing the total to 37.

    Attention now turns to what actions governments will take in July to stop this industry from starting.

    Megan Randles, Greenpeace head of delegation regarding the High Seas Treaty and progress towards stopping deep sea mining, said: “High Seas Treaty ratification is within touching distance, but the progress made here in Nice feels hollow as this UN Ocean Conference ends without more tangible commitments to stopping deep sea mining.

    “We’ve heard lots of fine words here in Nice, but these need to turn into tangible action.

    “Countries must be brave, stand up for global cooperation and make history by stopping deep sea mining this year.

    “They can do this by committing to a moratorium on deep sea mining at next month’s International Seabed Authority meeting.

    “We applaud those who have already taken a stand, and urge all others to be on the right side of history by stopping deep sea mining.”

    Attention on ISA meeting
    Following this UNOC, attention now turns to the International Seabed Authority (ISA) meetings in July. In the face of The Metals Company teaming up with US President Donald Trump to mine the global oceans, the upcoming ISA provides a space where governments can come together to defend the deep ocean by adopting a moratorium to stop this destructive industry.

    Negotiations on a Global Plastics Treaty resume in August.

    John Hocevar, oceans campaign director, Greenpeace USA said: “The majority of countries have spoken when they signed on to the Nice Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty that they want an agreement that will reduce plastic production. Now, as we end the UN Ocean Conference and head on to the Global Plastics Treaty negotiations in Geneva this August, they must act.

    “The world cannot afford a weak treaty dictated by oil-soaked obstructionists.

    “The ambitious majority must rise to this moment, firmly hold the line and ensure that we will have a Global Plastic Treaty that cuts plastic production, protects human health, and delivers justice for Indigenous Peoples and communities on the frontlines.

    “Governments need to show that multilateralism still works for people and the planet, not the profits of a greedy few.”

    Driving ecological collapse
    Nichanan Thantanwit, project leader, Ocean Justice Project, said: “Coastal and Indigenous communities, including small-scale fishers, have protected the ocean for generations. Now they are being pushed aside by industries driving ecological collapse and human rights violations.

    “As the UN Ocean Conference ends, governments must recognise small-scale fishers and Indigenous Peoples as rights-holders, secure their access and role in marine governance, and stop destructive practices such as bottom trawling and harmful aquaculture.

    “There is no ocean protection without the people who have protected it all along.”

    The anticipated Nice Ocean Action Plan, which consists of a political declaration and a series of voluntary commitments, will be announced later today at the end of the conference.

    None will be legally binding, so governments need to act strongly during the next ISA meeting in July and at plastic treaty negotiations in August.

    Republished from Greenpeace Aotearoa with permission.

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Israelis ‘now realise’ what Palestinians and Lebanese have been suffering, says analyst

    Asia Pacific Report

    A Paris-based military and political analyst, Elijah Magnier, says he believes the hostilities between Israel and Iran will only get worse, but that Israeli support for the war may wane if the destruction continues.

    “I think it’s going to continue escalating because we are just in the first days of the war that Israel declared on Iran,” he told Al Jazeera in an interview.

    “And also the Israeli officials, the prime minister and the army, have all warned Israeli society that this war is going to be heavy and . . .  the price is going to be extremely high.

    “But the society that stands behind [Prime Minister] Benjamin Netanyahu and supports the war on Iran did not expect this level of destruction because, since 1973, Israel has not waged a war on a country and never been attacked on this scale, right in the heart of Tel Aviv,” Magnier said.

    “So now they are realising what the Palestinians have been suffering, what the Lebanese have been suffering, and they see the destruction in front of them — buildings in Tel Aviv, in Haifa destroyed, fire everywhere.

    “The properties no longer exist. Eight people killed, 250 wounded in one day.

    “That’s unheard of since a very long time in Israel. So, all that is not something that the Israeli society has been ready for,” added Magnier, veteran war correspondent and political analyst with more than 35 years of experience covering decades of war in the Middle East and North Africa.

    Peters criticised over ‘craven’ statement
    Meanwhile, in Auckland, the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) criticised New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters for “refusing to condemn Israel for its egregious war crimes of industrial-scale killing and mass starvation of civilians in Gaza”.

    It also said that Peters had “outdone himself with the most craven of tweets on Israel’s massive attack on Iran”.


    Iran missiles strikes on Israel for third day in retaliation to the surprise attack. Video: Al Jazeera

    Co-chair Maher Nazzal said in a statement that minister Peters had said he was “gravely concerned by the escalation in tensions between Israel and Iran” and that “all actors” must “prioritise de-escalation”.

    But there was no mention of Israel as the aggressor and no condemnation of Israel’s attack launched in the middle of negotiations between Iran and the US on Iran’s nuclear programme, said Maher.

    “It’s Mr Peters’ most obsequious tweet yet which leaves a cloud of shame hanging over the country.

    “Appeasement of this rogue state, as our government and other Western countries have done over 20 months, have led Israel to believe it can attack any country it likes with absolute impunity.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – Three Greyhounds Dead in Three Days Underscores Need for Racing Ban

    Source: Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand

    Quick facts:

    • Three greyhounds died in three days of racing in New Zealand this week (12–14 June).

    • Fifteen greyhounds have died on racetracks so far in the 2024/25 season, with six weeks still remaining.

    • An alarming spike in lure-collapse deaths: six dogs this season, including three from the McInerney kennels: a family with a long history of serious welfare breaches.

    • Meanwhile GRNZ is facing a rehoming crisis of its own making: 672 dogs were awaiting adoption as of 1 November 2024, 349 of them still with trainers, not yet in the rehoming process. That number rose to 723 by 1 February 2025.

    • Despite this, in October 2024, GRNZ reported plans to increase breeding.

    • The Government has to hold firm, introduce legislation, and enforce the ban before more dogs pay with their lives.

    Three greyhounds have died on New Zealand racetracks in just three days of racing: a brutal illustration of the industry’s ongoing welfare crisis and the urgent need for the forthcoming ban.

    The three deaths occurred across three racetracks this week:

    • Homebush Sydney was euthanised on Wednesday 12 June after suffering a catastrophic spiral fracture of the left femur during a race in Invercargill (source).

    • Homebush Feijoa collapsed and died at the lure in Christchurch on Friday 13 June (source).


    • Midnight Brockie, also racing on Friday, suffered a fractured right hock and tibia with complete displacement at Whanganui and was euthanised trackside (source).

    “This is not reform. This is carnage,” said Emily Robertson, spokesperson for the Greyhound Protection League of New Zealand (GPLNZ). “Three dogs dead in three days of racing – and still this industry has the audacity to challenge the government’s decision to shut it down. It’s beyond belief.”

    Midnight Brockie, just three years old, had raced 49 times and earned $45,470 in prize money before her death. She was the littermate of Brockie’s Rocket, another greyhound who collapsed and died at the lure in Manukau in September 2024 (source).

    Greyhounds collapsing and dying at the end of their race – sometimes even after winning – is a particularly alarming new trend that has emerged over the past two seasons. In the 2023/24 racing season, three dogs died this way. So far in the 2024/25 season, that number has doubled, with six greyhounds collapsing and dying at the lure, including three from the Darfield, Canterbury kennels of trainer Jonathan McInerney.

    The McInerney family has a long and troubling history in the greyhound racing industry. In 2023, John McInerney Sr was banned from the sport for 12 months by the Racing Integrity Board (RIB) after being found guilty of multiple serious animal welfare breaches, including failing to provide veterinary care and pain relief to a dog for three weeks. The dog was later diagnosed with cancer and euthanised (source).

    In the same ruling, two dogs at his Manawatū satellite facility – operated by another son, Stephen McInerney – tested positive for methamphetamine and amphetamine.

    John McInerney Sr has faced a raft of other RIB charges. The most serious in recent years include:

    So far, 15 greyhounds have been killed on New Zealand racetracks since 1 August 2024, with six weeks of the racing season still to go. These figures reflect deaths alone, not the hundreds of serious injuries, including fractures, torn muscles, and other trauma that greyhounds continue to suffer on tracks every single week. GPLNZ warns that further deaths are likely unless urgent action is taken.

    “These aren’t freak accidents. They’re the inevitable result of a system that treats dogs as disposable,” said Robertson. “Despite repeated reviews, recommendations, and reassurances of reform, dogs continue to suffer and die.”

    In December 2024, the Government announced – with support from all political parties – that it would phase out greyhound racing in 20 months, after the industry was formally put on notice in September 2022. The ban decision followed multiple reviews, including the WHK Report (2013), the Hansen Report (2017), and the Robertson Review (2021), all of which raised serious concerns about animal welfare, high euthanasia and injury rates, data, and transparency in the industry.

    GRNZ is now seeking a judicial review to challenge the ban, a move GPLNZ describes as “a desperate attempt that delays the inevitable and prolongs the suffering of greyhounds used and abused by this industry.”

    “GRNZ should be focusing on ensuring no more dogs are harmed, winding down racing, and rehoming the dogs it claims to care about,” said Robertson. “The truth is, GRNZ is in the midst of a rehoming crisis of its own making – one that was already worsening even before the ban was announced.”

    Figures from the Racing Integrity Board, the agency tasked with overseeing all three racing codes in New Zealand, show that as of 1 November 2024, 672 greyhounds were awaiting adoption, with 349 of them still housed with their trainers, not yet in rehoming centres or foster care (source).

    “In their own annual report, GRNZ claimed to have rehomed 673 dogs in the 2023/24 season, meaning a full year’s worth of dogs were already sitting, waiting, and hoping for a home. That number rose to 723 by 1 February 2025 following the Government’s announcement of the ban,” Robertson said.

    “And instead of urgently addressing this backlog, GRNZ is spending its time and resources in court trying to keep this inherently dangerous industry alive — and perversely had actually planned to increase breeding numbers.”

    According to its own Animal Welfare Quarterly Progress Report (31 October 2024, p.12):

    “…an uplift is required to maintain current racing levels and the industry’s overall contribution to the economy. Providing support and incentives to encourage and sustain the breeding industry will be a key focus for GRNZ in 2025 and beyond.”

    GPLNZ is calling on the Government to hold firm, introduce legislation, and enforce the ban before more dogs pay with their lives.

    Notes:

    Greyhounds killed in the 2024/25 racing season on track are:

    1. Midnight Brockie – 13 June – Whanganui – fractured right hock and tibia with complete displacement

    2. Homebush Feijoa – 13 June – Addington – collapsed and died at the lure 

    3. Homebush Sydney – 11 June – Invercargill- spiral fracture left femur – euthanasia post race 

    4. Carrington Magic – 16 May – Whanganui  – open spiral fracture of left tibia fibula 

    5. Big Time Hinda – 10 April – Cambridge – collapsed at lure and dead on arrival 

    6. Know Motor – 8 March – Addington – fractured right radios ulna and died after surgery 

    7. Homebush Honey – 13 March – Addington – collapsed and died at track trial 

    8. Homebush Milo – 7 March – Addington – collapsed at lure and dead on arrival 

    9. Highview Amber – 27 December- Whanganui – complete fractures of left and right radius ulnas

    10. Call the tune – 13 December – Addington – cramp at lure, collapse in wash bay, transported to vet and euthanised due to an unmanageable hemorrhagic shock 

    11. Diamond Roman – 10 December – Invercargill- compound fracture of right tibia fibula which was severely comminuted and displaced 

    12. Homebush Shadow – Wednesday 27 November – Invercargill – complete fracture of the left radius ulna

    13. What’s on – 18 October – Addington – incident at lure, severe neck pain – diagnosed with fractured vertebrae and due to severity of fracture was euthanased 

    14. Brockie’s Rocket – 29 September – Manukau – collapsed and died at the lure (autopsy result – spontaneous tension pneumothorax)

    15. Rocket Queen – 20 September 2024 – Addington – compound fracture to its radius/ulna.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Issa Amro: Youth Against Settlements – ‘life is very hard, the Israeli soldiers act like militia’

    RNZ News

    Palestinian advocate Issa Amro has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize this year for his decades of work advocating for peaceful resistance against Israel’s illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank.

    The settlements are illegal under international law — and a record 45 were established last year under cover of the war on Gaza,

    Advocacy against the settlements has seen Amro become a target.

    He is based in the occupied West Bank, in Hebron — a city of about 250,000 mostly Palestinian people. He founded Youth Against Settlements.

    He paints a picture about what daily life is like.

    “Our life in West Bank was very hard and difficult before October 7 [2023 – the date of the Hamas resistance movement attack on southern Israel]. And after October 7, life became much harder. . . .

    ‘Daily harassment, violence’
    “So there are hard conditions. No jobs. No work. No movement in the West Bank. Schools are affected . . . There is daily harassment and violence — they attack the Palestinian villages, they attack the Palestinian cities, they attack the Palestinian roads.

    “In my city Hebron, it has got much, much harder. People are not able to leave their homes because of the closure of the checkpoints. The [Israeli] soldiers are very mean and adversarial . . .

    “The soldiers close the checkpoints whenever they want. In fact, the soldiers act like militia, not like a regular army.

    “My house was attacked in the last 20 months . . . ”

    • At least 55,104 people, including at least 17,400 children, have been killed in Israel’s war on Gaza. At least 943 Palestinians, more than 200 of them minors, have been killed in the occupied West Bank.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crown manager appointed to drive delivery of New Dunedin Hospital

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced the appointment of a Crown manager to oversee the delivery of the New Dunedin Hospital Inpatient Building, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to ensuring the project is delivered successfully.

    “In late January, I confirmed the Government’s commitment to building the New Dunedin Hospital on the former Cadbury site – providing certainty to the people of Dunedin and the wider Otago and Southland regions,” Mr Brown says.

    “As part of that commitment, we are putting strong leadership in place to drive the next stage of this project. I’m pleased to announce the appointment of Evan Davies as Crown manager for the inpatient building project.”

    Mr Davies will lead the delivery of the inpatient facility, including confirming the procurement approach and finalising the construction contract. He will work closely with Health New Zealand to ensure alignment with the broader New Dunedin Hospital programme. It will also enable Health New Zealand to focus on the many other infrastructure work programmes currently underway.

    “Mr Davies brings over 30 years of senior leadership experience and a proven track record in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in the health sector.

    “His appointment reflects the importance of this project to the Government. I’m confident he will bring the capability, oversight, and momentum needed to see it through.

    “This Government has committed a record $1.88 billion to the New Dunedin Hospital, making it the largest health infrastructure investment in New Zealand’s history.

    “That level of investment reflects our commitment to providing a modern, fit-for-purpose hospital that meets the needs of future generations.

    “This step will help ensure the project remains on track, and that we deliver a world-class facility providing timely, high-quality care in Dunedin,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Learner eligibility – Youth Guarantee

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 8 March 2024
    Last updated 8 March 2024

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    This page sets out learner eligibility criteria for programmes funded through the Youth Guarantee (YG) Fund.
    This page sets out learner eligibility criteria for programmes funded through the Youth Guarantee (YG) Fund.

    For the full learner eligibility requirements, see the Youth Guarantee funding conditions for the relevant year. Learners must not be simultaneously enrolled in school and a YG funded programme.
    Learners must not be enrolled in a YG funded programme and another TEC-funded programme at the same time, eg, Intensive Literacy and Numeracy (ILN), Delivery at Levels 1 and 2 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (DQ1-2), New Zealand Apprenticeship or Gateway.
    A learner who is eligible for ILN-funded programmes is not considered to have the necessary literacy and numeracy skills to be successful in a YG programme.
    Limit on prior qualification achievement
    The prior qualification achievement limit is to ensure that government funding is targeted to learners with no or low prior qualification achievement, and to enable learners to progress to higher-level qualifications.
    In practice this means:

    a new enrolment is the first time that learner has been enrolled in YG at that tertiary education organisation (TEO), and
    the TEO must verify individual learners’ prior achievement before accepting them into the programme.

    Level 1 and 2 programmes
    TEOs must ensure that learners who already hold a qualification at Level 1 or 2 on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) comprise no more than 10% of new enrolments in a YG programme leading to award of a qualification at that level.

    Learner holds a qualification at …

    And enrols in a qualification at …

    Learner will be included in the 10% prior achievement calculation in each year of delivery

    Level 1

    Level 1

    Yes

    Level 2

    Level 2

    Yes

    Level 1

    Level 2

    No

    A learner enrolment in a subsequent YG qualification at the same TEO at any level is not considered a “new enrolment”.
    Level 3 programmes
    To meet the learner eligibility requirements the TEO must:

    not enrol a learner in a YG programme if the learner has already achieved a qualification at Level 3 or above on the NZQCF, and
    prioritise enrolments in YG programmes that lead to award of a Level 3 qualification on the NZQCF for:

    learners who enrolled in YG with low prior achievement (no qualification or a Level 1 qualification), and
    learners who have completed a Level 1 or 2 qualification funded through YG.

    Age limit for learners
    Learners may be re-enrolled in YG, as long as they continue to meet the learner eligibility conditions, including enrolling in no more than 1.5 EFTS provision per calendar year.
    Some learners may turn 25 years old during a programme they are enrolled in. These learners remain eligible for YG for the courses required to complete their programme.
    YG funding is not available for learners who have already turned 25 to re-enrol in courses they did not successfully complete. Keep this in mind when you enrol a learner who is close to turning 25, as any re-enrolments in programmes or courses will need to be self-funded by the learner or from DQ1-2/Delivery at Levels 3-7 (non-degree) on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework and all industry training (DQ3-7) Funds funding. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Black ice, fog risk prompts warning to motorists

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A combination of freezing temperatures, fog, hoar frosts and black ice means challenging conditions for travel on State Highways 8 and 80 over the next few days, with the biggest concern being drivers not adapting to the conditions.

    “On SH8 in particular, there are many sheltered areas where build-up of ice is a major concern,” says NZTA System Manager Mark Pinner.  

    “Bridge surfaces can cool quickly, and re-freezing can even occur in the late morning.”

    “We‘ve already had reports of people driving too fast for the conditions and truck and trailer units fishtailing. We also know it’s going to get busier later in the week as we get closer to the long holiday weekend for Matariki. Reducing speed is the biggest thing drivers can do to keep themselves safe and to help keep the highways open.”

    “One of the measures we are employing to slow traffic down are Temporary Speed Limits which can be employed on parts of the highway network that are most at risk.”

    The Temporary Speed Limit of 50km/h has been put into effect on State Highway 8 at sites such as either side of Lake Tekapo township, and near the Tekapo Military Camp, the Tekapo Flyover (over the Tekapo Canal) and Simons Pass.

    “This is not our usual approach, but the nature of the conditions forecast for this week means we need to use every tool we can to keep people safe on the roads,” Mr Pinner says.

    “Our typical de-icing agents are at the extreme range of where they aren’t as effective, and whilst we are gritting the roads, driving to conditions is a key part of keeping road access safe also.”

    “If the conditions warrant it, we will close the highway, most likely overnight and through the high-risk early morning period. People need to plan ahead if they are travelling in the area – keep an eye on our Journey Planner site.”

    Journey Planner

    Winter driving advice

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Priority One: Twelve months in, 2100 children housed

    Source: New Zealand Government

    In the first twelve months of the Government’s flagship Priority One policy, nearly 1000 families with more than 2,124 children have been moved from dank emergency housing motel rooms to secure, stable homes.

    “The largescale use of emergency housing was one of the biggest public policy failures in New Zealand history. Under the previous government’s watch, thousands of children were consigned to grow up in cramped, dingy motel rooms at a cost to taxpayers of $1 million every day at its peak,” Housing Minister Chris Bishop says.

    “The cost to taxpayers was a scandal, but the social cost for families trying to raise their kids from a motel room for months or even years on end was an absolute tragedy.

    “We campaigned on introducing a Priority One category to help these kids and their families move into social homes, and getting it up and running was a key priority for us as an incoming Government.

    “Priority One, which has now been in place for a year, bumps families with dependent children to the very top of the social housing waitlist if they have been in emergency housing for 12 weeks or more.

    “Thanks to Priority One and the hard work of many frontline staff across multiple government agencies, thousands of children now live in a warm, dry social home instead of a crowded motel room.”

    Minister Potaka said the Government had already achieved its target of reducing the number of households in Emergency Housing by 75 per cent by 2030 and now needed to maintain progress. Since November 2023 to April 2025, households in emergency housing have dropped from 3,342 to 516– that’s a drop of 84.5 percent.

    “And importantly, there are now significantly fewer children in emergency housing. In April 2024, there were 3,339 children in emergency housing, and a year later we’re down to 519.

    “The focus on supporting whānau with tamariki into better stable homes could mean a world of difference for their health, school attendance, and regular employment.

    “One of the whānau we’re talking about today is a family of six whose eldest child has serious health concerns needing specialist care, but who had been struggling while stuck living in emergency accommodation for six months.

    “Our Priority One focus helped get this whānau into a stable Kāinga Ora home and helped enable them to get the wider support they needed.

    “We will continue to improve the housing system because there are thousands of deserving people out there just like this whānau, many of them on the social housing list just waiting to take proper care and enjoy a better home.

    “MSD has also improved how it tracks emergency housing outcomes. We now know where around 85 percent of those leaving emergency housing go – be it social housing, transitional housing, or a private rental. 

    “Of the households that exited emergency housing (excluding contracted emergency housing) during December 2024: 

    • 37 percent left emergency housing to go into social housing (4 percent through CHPs, 33 percent through Kāinga Ora)
    • 29 percent had moved into transitional housing
    • 19 percent were receiving the accommodation supplement for a private rental
    • 14 percent did not access any of this housing-related assistance.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Policy – Cancellation of Health Charter a giant step backwards for health and community support workers – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Hard on the heels of the cancellation of pay equity claims for thousands of hospital, health and community support workers, the Government’s announcement today that they’re dropping the Te Mauri o Rongo Health Charter is another callous twist of the knife, the PSA says.
    Minister Simeon Brown’s suite of changes to the Pae Ora Act will see, among other things, a repeal of the Te Mauri o Rongo Health Charter.
    “The Health Charter set out shared values and principles to shape behaviours for how Te Whatu Ora will support and promote a safe working culture across health, including the funded community sector. Now it’s gone, with seemingly nothing to replace it,” Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi national secretary, Fleur Fitzsimons, says.
    “Hospital, health, and community support workers are already under immense strain. They’re constantly asked to do more with less. And the high frequency of assaults by patients – particularly for mental health workers – is increasingly, frighteningly normalised.”
    The PSA played a critical role in developing the charter, standing up a working group of health and community support workers shortly after Te Whatu Ora was established. It was developed by the health workforce for the health sector, and is a positive framework to lead and support the health system to develop relationships to achieve pae ora (healthy futures).
    “A functioning health system must commit to supporting their workforce and empowering them to speak out when their safety is compromised. Otherwise we’ll just do what New Zealand has done for years, and drive out our highly trained health workforce to sunnier pastures overseas.
    “The commitment to a well-trained workforce with access to appropriate resources to develop their skills, as well as workers to provide person and whānau-centred services, are a challenge to this Government.
    “The coalition continues to show us who and what they value. It’s very clear that they’re continuing to completely under-value the workers, and especially the women workers, who prop up the system to serve New Zealand whānau when they need it most.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts and Education – US directors bring touch of Broadway to NASDA show

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    When Kiss Me Kate hits the stage at Papa Hou Theatre in the heart of Christchurch next week, audiences will experience a show polished by an internationally acclaimed director-choreographer duo.
    Ara Institute of Canterbury’s National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Arts (NASDA) has brought in US-based stage superstars Diane Laurenson and Bob Richard to work with ākonga (students) for the much-loved musical production.
    The pair’s combined careers span Broadway, the West End and beyond with international tours, television and film credits to their names. While they bring a wealth of expertise to NASDA, they’re also in their element as devoted educators.
    “We’ve worked with professionals for almost 40 years but it’s a dream to be among new talent who are growing as actors and to help build a foundation for the world they’re going into,” Laurenson said.
    “It’s kind of like being a rock in the stream,” Richard added. “As professional directors we can help them steer a course and identify what they want to focus on as emerging artists.”
    Laurenson is a celebrated Fosse veteran, working directly with Broadway leg

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public transport just got a salary sacrifice, tax-free upgrade

    Source: Extraordinary

    New benefit means cheaper commutes, cleaner cities, and more money in workers’ pockets, says Extraordinary  

    Kiwi fintech maverick, Extraordinary, has seized a rare opportunity to align the stars — combining a recent Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) change with a first-of-its-kind salary sacrifice solution. As a result, Kiwi commuters now have a powerful reason to leave the car at home. Public transport can finally be paid for using pre-tax income, made possible by Extraordinary’s Card and platform.

    New research by Extraordinary shows strong appetite for the change:

    • 21% of Kiwis who currently commute by car say they would consider switching to public transport if their employer offered a tax-free travel benefit – rising to 40% among younger workers aged 18–34. 
    • 19% of remote workers say they’d commute into the office more often if they received a public transport allowance.

    With younger employees especially responsive to incentives, the new option gives employers a powerful tool to support greener, more vibrant cities – while helping workers keep more of their pay.

    These findings come at the perfect time: employers can now provide public transport allowances without incurring Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) – saving both employers and employees money, and making cleaner, more affordable commuting a reality.

    To mark the milestone, Extraordinary CEO Steven Zinsli joined Mayor of Auckland Wayne Brown for a media moment on Auckland’s Britomart, one of the city’s busiest business and transport hubs.

    “This is a game-changer for how people travel to work,” said Steven Zinsli. “It’s now easier and cheaper for employers to support public transport, and workers can keep more of what they earn.”

    Until now, FBT rules meant employer-subsidised transport came with tax penalties, limiting uptake. That’s now changed – with Extraordinary’s innovative solution, employees will have the ability to top up existing transport cards using pre-tax income, reducing travel costs and encouraging more sustainable transport options.

    The shift arrives at a crucial moment, as cities like Auckland seek ways to reduce congestion and emissions, while also reviving CBD activity. Recent research shows that office occupancy remains below 70% in some major centres, well below pre-pandemic levels.

    Mayor Wayne Brown said: “One of my key priorities when I was elected as Mayor was to get Auckland moving, and initiatives like this will make it easier for people to get to work by bus or train and help reduce congestion on our roads. This is good for the environment, good for our cities and good for our economy.”

    Why this matters:

    • More money in workers’ pockets: public transport benefits are now tax-free 
    • No extra cost to employers: avoid FBT while supporting sustainability 
    • Convenience: Top up existing transport cards using pre-tax income 
    • Cleaner cities: fewer cars = reduced emissions and congestion 
    • City revival: supports return-to-office and urban vibrancy.

    Extraordinary is already partnering with major employers across New Zealand and expects demand to accelerate as more businesses take advantage of the updated FBT rules.

    To read more, visit www.extraordinarypay.com/our-solutions/public-transport.

    About Extraordinary  

    Extraordinary is a New Zealand-based fintech platform revolutionising how employers manage non-payroll benefits. Its smart employee card supports Gifting, Public Transport, Rewards, and other allowances – replacing reimbursements and manual admin with real-time, flexible payments. Founded in 2021 and based in Auckland, Extraordinary is trusted by forward-thinking companies to boost retention, compliance, and employee satisfaction.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –