Retail activity up in the March 2025 quarter–23 May 2025 –The total volume of retail sales in New Zealand increased by 0.8 percent in the March 2025 quarter compared with the December 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today. Figures are adjusted for price inflation and seasonal effects.
“Growth in retail activity was modest in the March quarter, with the majority of industries contributing positively,” economic indicators spokesperson Michelle Feyen said.
“Motor vehicle retailing, and pharmaceutical and other store-based retailing saw the largest increases this quarter.”
Ten of the 15 retail industries had higher retail sales volumes in the March 2025 quarter, compared with the December 2024 quarter, after adjusting for price and seasonal effects.
Source: Govt’s austerity Budget to cause real harm in communities
Part2 Amendmentsto other enactments
CHAIRPERSON (Maureen Pugh): Members, we now come to Part 2. This is the debate on clauses 17 to 30, to the “Amendments to other enactments”. Part 2 contains changes to the KiwiSaver regime as well as changes to the Tax Administration Act 1994. The question is that Part 2 stand part.
Rt Hon ADRIAN RURAWHE (Labour): Point of order. Thank you, Madam Chair. I refer to two matters. Before the closure motion and the vote on Part 1, the Chair seemed to indicate that despite the end of Part 1, that those elements of the KiwiSaver from Part 1 could be debated in Part 2. I just want to confirm that that’s the case, mainly because it is a bit odd given that we’ve voted on amendments to KiwiSaver clauses—but that’s what she indicated. There were very few calls on the KiwiSaver and I note that colleagues from the Green Party and Te Pāti Māori were seeking calls but were not given the opportunities to speak on that part of Part 1—
CHAIRPERSON (Maureen Pugh): I understand.
Rt Hon ADRIANRURAWHE: So my question, just for clarity of the committee, is: have I heard that correctly?
CHAIRPERSON (Maureen Pugh): You have heard that correctly, sir. And I was watching the debate and I heard the previous Chair make reference to being able to go back, where relevant, into clause 1 as it relates to KiwiSaver.
Hon Dr DEBORAH RUSSELL (Labour): Speaking to the point of order. I just want to really, really clarify this because, with respect, the operative changes to the KiwiSaver regime actually occurred in Part 1. The Chair seemed to think that we could, in actual fact, discuss those operative changes in Part 2, but that’s going to be very hard because we can’t relate them to a clause in Part 2—they actually sit in Part 1. The amendments in Part 2 are very, very technical and just to do with a very small part of the changes. So may I suggest that provided we bring up new points, that we have a rather more thematic debate in Part 2 around KiwiSaver? We could confine it to KiwiSaver and always make sure we are bringing up a new idea rather than repeating ideas, rather than trying to relate specifically to clauses.
Tim van deMolen: Speaking to the point of order.
CHAIRPERSON (Maureen Pugh): I’ll just take some advice from the Clerk. Speaking to the point of order, Tim van de Molen.
TIM VAN DE MOLEN (National—Waikato): Thank you, Madam Chair. There is, obviously, under Part 2, clause 17, which relates to KiwiSaver. My understanding of the comments from the Chair during the previous part were that KiwiSaver can, of course, be debated in Part 2 because there is a clause for that. But it would not be appropriate to give the committee the ability to rehash everything in clause 1 aspects of KiwiSaver because, of course, that’s been dealt with and voted on and completed under that part. So it should indeed be constrained to this part.
CHAIRPERSON (Maureen Pugh): We’re all in agreement. I think everyone understands as it—and I did listen to the previous Chair and she has provided me with confirmation of her ruling. So I think you’re correct, Dr Russell, that we can refer back to clause 1 as it relates to the KiwiSaver. But I think we’ll just see how the substantive questions come through. To your point about the repetition, we will be very alert to that. Thank you.
The Government is ensuring more Kiwi kids benefit from quality teaching and leadership in the classroom by growing the number of teachers and backing school leaders through Budget 2025.
“We know the most important part of a child’s education is the quality of the teacher in front of them. Developing the workforce of the future is one of my priorities for the education system.
“We want to grow, promote and support the education workforce by backing and strengthening our educators who every day deliver real change in the classroom,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.
To do this we are creating over 1,600 Full Time Equivalent teaching and learning support roles by 2028.
Key Budget 2025 investments include:
$33 million to expand the School Onsite Training Programme (SOTP) by 530 places over four years and powering up marketing to reach more potential teachers in New Zealand and overseas.
$30 million to support up to 800 teachers over four years to access an Aspiring Principal Programme and doubling the Leadership Advisory Service from 16 to 32 Leadership Advisors.
$53 million to fund approximately 115,000 teacher registrations and practicing certificates over three years.
$3 million to deliver targeted professional learning and development to teacher aides.
$5 million into Professional Learning and Development for Literacy, Maths and Assessment, for 450-500 teachers working across Years 0-10.
$14.7 million into professional learning and development for up to 51,000 teachers and kaiako to develop their skills and proficiency in te reo Māori and tikanga to levels where they can confidently use it in the classroom.
“This Government is implementing an ambitious education reform programme that is defined by pace, clarity and outcomes. It is crucial we support the teaching workforce who is leading this reform.
“This builds on our continued commitment to support our fantastic teachers. We want to grow the skills and knowledge in our workforce. This not only benefits our educators, but gives our tamariki the very best chance to thrive at school and beyond,” Ms Stanford says.
Have your say on the Financial Markets (Conduct of Institutions) Amendment (Duty to Provide Financial Services) Amendment Bill The Chairperson of the Finance and Expenditure Committee is calling for submissions on the Financial Markets (Conduct of Institutions) Amendment (Duty to Provide Financial Services) Amendment Bill. The closing date for submissions is 11.59pm on Friday, 4 July 2025.
The bill is a member’s bill in the name of Andy Foster. The bill would amend the Financial Markets (Conduct of Institutions) Amendment Act 2022 to place a new duty on financial institutions to provide financial services to customers except in situations based on law or for valid and verifiable commercial grounds.
Tell the Finance and Expenditure Committee what you think:
Make a submissionon the bill by 11.59pm on Friday, 4 July 2025.
The Prostate Cancer Foundation will continue the fight to save men’s lives after the Budget failed to fund an early detection pilot for prostate cancer.
President Danny Bedingfield said “we have been talking to the last government and now the new government for the last two years on funding two regional pilots for early detection screening of prostate cancer at an approximate cost of only $6.4 million over four years.
“Everyone acknowledges that the sooner cancer is detected, the better clinical outcomes. We just have two questions for the government – is cancer that is specific to men not important? And what is the barrier to a prostate cancer screening pilot?
“Over 4,000 dads, husbands, sons and brothers are diagnosed with prostate cancer and more than 700 die of the disease every year. We think these lives matter. “We are at a loss as to why cancer specific to men doesn’t seem to rate with either the last government, or now this new government. Prostate cancer screening is seen as inevitable by health officials and is supported by New Zealand’s Urological Society.
“While the pilot was not funded in the Budget, we remain hopeful that money can be found by reprioritising a tiny part of the $30 billion vote health spending will get it underway. “In addition to putting miniscule funding into the proposed early detection pilots, our Health Minister should also accept an invitation from Europe to a join a useful world leading cancer study – the Praise–U consortium,” Bedingfield said.
“This is a world-leading initiative that aims to enhance the ability for early detection of men with prostate cancer so they can access early treatment to reduce unnecessary early deaths,” Bedingfield says.
“However, after today, we are left wondering if men’s health is important,” Bedingfield concluded.
The Retirement Commissioner welcomes news the Government is making changes to KiwiSaver which early estimates suggest will leave more New Zealanders with more money saved for their retirement.
Announced in the Budget 2025, employee and employer contributions to KiwiSaver will move to 3.5% from 1 April 2026 and then to 4% from 1 April 2028. Alongside these changes, the government contribution is decreasing to 25% (i.e 25 cents for every $1 contributed to a maximum of $260.72) and removed entirely for those earning over $180,000, effective from 1 July.
The Sorted KiwiSaver Calculator is currently the only tool in the country which reflects the Budget 2025 announcements, giving New Zealanders the chance to see how the changes will impact them and what their retirement savings would have looked like without them. (ref. https://sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-calculator/ )
There are approximately 3.4 million KiwiSaver members, and 2.2 million received an employer and a government contribution or only a government contribution in 2024.
Retirement Commissioner Jane Wrightson says, “we’re pleased to see the Government take on board some of the key recommendations we made in 2024, including introducing a higher default contribution rate of 4% for employees and matched by their employers, and extending employer contributions to those aged 16 and 17. We’d also recommended employer contributions for those over 65 but unfortunately the latter has been excluded from these latest changes.
“While increasing contribution rates is generally beneficial for salary and wage earners who qualify for an employer contribution, not everyone benefits from these changes. The reduction in the government contribution will hit low-income earners, Māori, women, and the self-employed the hardest.”
In March, the Retirement Commission released its annual analysis of KiwiSaver balances data which revealed the gender retirement savings gap shows men having on average 25% higher KiwiSaver balances compared to women.
“It’s a shame there are so few government incentives for a scheme that underpins private saving for retirement. I would at least have liked to see some of the savings from reducing government contributions be applied to serving those groups where we see the widest retirement savings gaps,” says the Retirement Commissioner.
“We also hope employers respect the spirit of the changes and understand why they were necessary, passing the savings onto their staff rather than including them as part of total remuneration – which should be banned.”
The Retirement Commission will continue to explore the impacts of these changes as part of the 2025 Review of Retirement Income Policies (RRIP) with a focus on how the Government could most effectively reduce gaps in retirement income outcomes. Summary of the Budget 2025 changes
Employee and employer contributions move to 3.5% from 1 April 2026 and then to 4% from 1 April 2028.
A new temporary savings reduction will be introduced, modelled on the existing temporary savings suspension, allowing members to opt to reduce their contribution rate to 3% for a period of up to 12 months. Members can take multiple temporary reductions. If a member takes a savings reduction their employer can match them at that rate.
The government contribution matching rate is reduced to 25% (i.e. 25 cents for every $1 contributed up to a maximum government contribution of $260.72) from 1 July 2025.
Members with an annual income of more than $180,000 will no longer be eligible for the government contribution from 1 July 2025.
16- and 17-year-olds become eligible for employer contributions from 1 April 2026 (note they will not be auto-enrolled. The age for auto-enrolment remains at 18, but if they join, or have already joined, and contribute, they will be eligible for the matching employer contribution).
16- and 17-year-olds become eligible for the government contribution, if they contribute, from 1 July 2025.
Notes: The 2025 Review of Retirement Income Policies (RRIP) Every three years the Retirement Commission is asked to undertake a comprehensive review of retirement income policies based on terms of reference set by the Government. The 2025 RRIP includes focus on research relating to KiwiSaver and other savings, emerging trends and how these will play out over the next 25 years, the experiences of women and the self-employed in retirement, spending down retirement savings and how New Zealand’s retirement policies compare globally. It will support the development of recommendations to ensure New Zealand’s retirement income system remains fit for purpose. The final report will be completed by December 2025.
More info: 2025 Review of Retirement Income Policies | Retirement Commission Te Ara Ahunga Ora
Sorted’s a free service run by Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission, the government-funded, independent agency dedicated to helping New Zealanders get ahead financially. As New Zealand’s trusted personal finance site, Sorted has the tools and information needed to tackle debt, plan and budget, save and invest, dial up KiwiSaver, plan for retirement, protect what’s important and manage a mortgage. No matter where people are at when it comes to money – just starting a first job or wrapping up a successful career – Sorted lets helps New Zealanders to fine-tune your finances and get ahead money-wise. Sorted KiwiSaver Calculator – has been updated to reflect the latest changes announced in the Budget. The calculator demonstrates the effect of KiwiSaver contributions on a first home deposit or retirement savings. It takes someone’s information on age, income, current KiwiSaver balance and fund type to project their future balance.
Source: General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)
The General Practice Owners Association says patient fees could rise by 10 percent or more this year just to cover costs after the Budget did nothing to fix a funding and retention crisis in primary healthcare.
GenPro Chair Dr Angus Chambers said the Budget was a missed opportunity and primary healthcare is hugely disappointed once again.
“The government currently puts $1.3 billion or just 4 percent of its $30 billion health budget toward general practice. A 10 percent uplift was urgently required in 2025/26 just to catch up and maintain existing services, with more investment needed in later years. It didn’t happen.
“General practice will have a feeling of déjà vu after successive Budgets have failed to increase government funding to keep pace with rising costs and more complex health needs.
The result is that patients are waiting longer to see a doctor, practices are closing or reducing their services, and have significant staff shortages.”
On top of the 10 percent increase in funding that was needed not materialising, general practices will also have to adjust to prescription renewals being extended from three months to one year.
“Some general practices are at breaking point, and we’ll forego further income due to prescription changes. The end result is that communities are at risk of losing their family doctors.”
With nothing in the Budget, GenPro said its one remaining hope is that Health New Zealand uses its increase in operational funding to significantly increase funding for general practice when it makes its annual adjustment in June.
“We have to remain hopeful that Health New Zealand will use its operational budget to support general practice, although this hasn’t happened in the past to the extent that is needed,” said Dr Chambers.
GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit www.genpro.org.nz
Retired High Court Judge Jan-Marie Doogue has been appointed chairperson of the New Zealand Parole Board, Attorney-General Judith Collins announced today.
“I welcome the appointment of someone with Justice Doogue’s legal acumen and administrative experience to this demanding role,” Ms Collins says.
Justice Doogue began her legal career with Cairns Slane in 1983 and became a partner of the firm in 1986. She joined the partnership of Morrison Morpeth in 1990 before joining the independent Bar in 1992 and being appointed a District and Family Court Judge in 1994.
She was appointed Chief District Court Judge in 2011 and served on the High Court Bench from 2019-2024.
“Justice Doogue replaces Sir Ronald Young, who recently stood down after serving two terms,” Ms Collins says.
“I want to thank Sir Ronald for the able and committed leadership he provided throughout his tenure as chairperson, and in particular to the focus he placed on the role of victims within the parole process.”
JusticeDoogue takes up her appointment on 15 July 2025.
The Government is sharpening its focus and support for New Zealand’s world-leading food and fibre producers through Budget 2025 – backing the growth and resilience of our largest and most Important sector. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says Budget 2025 confirms $4.95 billion in continuing baseline funding over the next four years for MPI to support farmers, growers, fishers, and foresters to lift on-farm productivity and profitability, strengthen rural communities, and drive higher returns at the farm and forest gate. “This year alone, the food and fibre sector is forecast to contribute $56.9 billion to the economy, that’s why we’re focused on unlocking new global opportunities –from the UK and EU, to the Gulf, and India– while cutting red tape so producers can get on with the job.” To further strengthen the sector’s resilience, Budget 2025 includes a new focus on driving growth and rural wellbeing through a series of targeted grassroots investments:
$246 million over four years in a new Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF) to help lift food and fibre sector productivity, profitability, and resilience; $2 million over four years in a contestable rural wellbeing fund; $1m extra over four years for Rural Support Trusts and other organisations to support farmers and growers; $400,000 over four years in direct grants for New Zealand’s A&P shows; Ongoing support for catchment groups of $36 million over the next four years, through the Ministry for Primary Industries; $250,000 for the 2025/26 financial year for Rural Women New Zealand to boost its on-the-ground support for rural communities.
“These initiatives back the people behind the sector who make our rural economy tick.” The new Investment Boost tax incentive will also improve cashflow and make on-farm and forest investments more affordable, allowing for Farmers and Growers to immediately deduct 20 per cent of the cost of new machinery or farm equipment, on top of existing depreciation rates. Budget 2025 also continues our commitment to $400 million over four years with an additional $23 million carried over to accelerate the development and rollout of new tools and technologies to reduce emissions without closing down farms or sending jobs and production overseas – a key part of ensuring the sector is globally competitive into the future. “When our rural communities do well, the whole country benefits. Budget 2025 is about ensuring our farmers and growers have the tools and support they need to succeed – not just for today, but for the long-term prosperity of New Zealand,” the Government’s team of Agriculture ministers, Todd McClay, Andrew Hoggard, Mark Patterson and Nicola Grigg say.
Covering period of Thursday 22nd – Monday 26th May – Weather set to turn on Sunday:
• Foggy and frosty in places this morning (Thursday) • Settled weather for most to end the work week • Potentially severe weather from Sunday • Warmer nights early next week
Most of New Zealand will enjoy settled and mostly sunny weather going into the weekend, thanks to a high-pressure system. After some cold nights and frosty mornings recently, temperatures are expected to go up a few notches over the next few days.
MetService expects the chance of showers to persist in the west from today (Thursday), especially in the South Island, due to moist air coming in with southwesterly winds under the high-pressure system. However, the rest of the country should stay mostly clear with sunny skies through the weekend. MetService meteorologist Oscar Shiviti says, “People should enjoy the sunny weather through the weekend while they can, it’s great for outdoor activities, but things may change toward the end of the weekend”.
On Sunday, clouds will increase over the South Island, mostly in the west, as a rain-bearing front approaches from the northwest. This could bring heavy rain and strong winds to southern parts of the country. Shiviti continues, “This system brings the potential for severe weather, so we encourage people to keep an eye on the MetService website for updates” (www.metservice.com).
That said, Auckland should stay mostly dry with only some clouds during Saturday’s rugby match between New Zealand’s Black Ferns and the USA Women.
“By early next week, the front will move north and may bring severe weather to those areas too. Warmer air with this system means nights will likely not be as cold as the new week begins” adds Shiviti. Next week’s weather will be quite different with cloudier, wetter and windier weather compared to the today’s conditions.
Budget 2025 takes $12.8bn from low-income, female dominated workforces to prop up the Government’s failed economic policies, said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Economist Craig Renney.
“The Government has promised this would be a growth budget, yet it has effectively cut the wages of low-income women workers. We know that one of the best ways to stimulate economic growth is by lifting wages – the Government is doing the opposite,” said Renney.
“The figures released today also showed that the number of people on Jobseekers Support is rising, and higher than forecast just last year. Real wage growth is lower than forecast last year – the Treasury itself says the Budget “lowers wage growth”. This is a Budget that is taking working people backwards.
“The Budget delivers more cuts to investment, including real terms cuts to early childhood education funding. New funding for learning support is largely being delivered by cutting funding from other programmes in education. Māori Development programmes have been cut significantly, as has funding from our media, culture, and heritage institutions.
“Promises made in health aren’t provided with new funding and the destruction of the pay equity process will mean we will continue to lose health workers to Australia, putting further stress on the system.
“Forecasts show we will continue to miss our child poverty targets over the next four years, and we will see thousands of families loose essential income due to cuts to Best Start and Working for Families. The Government is taking money from unemployed 18- and 19-year-olds, while investing nothing in action on climate change.
“Overall, this is a Budget that works by taking away from some of the poorest people in New Zealand, to fund tax cuts for multinationals, increased investment in corrections, the failed charter schools project, and more spending on defence.
“This is a Budget with its priorities all wrong – and working people will be paying the price,” said Renney.
The Government’s decision to slash over 620 jobs at Kāinga Ora is another devastating blow to vulnerable communities, especially Māori and Pacific whānau who are overrepresented in the housing crisis.
The cuts include essential frontline roles, such as those in call centres and tenant support, who work every day with whānau in desperate need of safe, secure housing.
Te Kaihautū Māori of the PSA Janice Panoho says many of the workers losing their jobs are Māori and Pacific, whose cultural competence and lived experience are essential to connecting with communities in a way that upholds mana.
“By disestablishing 769 roles, the Government is actively removing Māori and Pacific workers who bring whakapapa, reo, tikanga and aroha to their roles,” says Panoho.
“These are the people who guide our whānau through complex housing systems and advocate for them in a system that often excludes them,” Panoho says.
“This is not just about job cuts. This is about a government turning its back on its obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Kāinga Ora has been one of the few agencies striving to work alongside Māori to deliver housing solutions rooted in dignity, partnership and manaakitanga. Gutting its workforce is a betrayal.
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi condemns this move as a calculated assault on equity, cultural integrity, and frontline workers who serve our most at-risk families.
“We’ve seen this before under the previous Key Government, the sale of state housing and the forced removal of whānau from their homes, which led to widespread homelessness, with families left to live in cars, tents, and on the streets,” Panoho says.
“Now we are faced with this Government placing even more pressure on our communities without proper consultation with Iwi Maori and community leaders to maintain sustainable housing for our communities.
The PSA warns that these decisions will have lasting consequences. Kāinga Ora’s capacity to serve is being hollowed out, with a third of its workforce gone in just one year.
“This Government says it wants better outcomes for Māori, yet here we are, cutting the very services and people that support those outcomes,” says Panoho.
“This is not tino rangatiratanga. This is a continuation of systemic neglect that leaves our whānau homeless, our workers displaced, and our rights ignored.”
“Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi calls on the Government to halt these cuts, honour its commitments under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and invest in public housing and frontline workers, not strip them away,” Panoho says.
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahiis 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.
Applications are now open for the CLNZ | NZSA Research Grants to help writers research a fiction or non-fiction writing project.
Kua tuwhera ināianei ngā tono mō ngā Karāti Rangahau o te CLNZ | NZSA hei āwhina atu māu e rangahau tō hinonga, tō kōrero paki, tō kōrero pono rānei.
Four grants valued at $5,000 each are available to New Zealand writers.
One of the grants targets diverse writers and topics, including writers from, and writing about, parts of Aotearoa that are not broadly represented in writing and publishing, and projects on issues or subjects that are topical in present day Aotearoa.
E whā ngā karāti, e $5,000 te wāriu o ia karāti, ā, e wātea ana aua mea ki ngā kaituhi o Aotearoa.
E aro pū ana tētahi o ngā karāti ki ngā kaituhi kanorau me ngā kaupapa kanorau, tae ana ki ngā kaituhi i ahu mai ai i, e tuhi nei hoki mō ngā wāhi o Aotearoa me uaua ka kitea i roto i ngā tuhinga, i roto hoki i te ao tā pukapuka, ā, tae ana ki ngā hinonga e pā ana ki ngā take o te wā, ki ngā kaupapa o te wā rānei nō roto mai o Aotearoa onāianei.
These are brought to you by Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) and the New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ Inc) as part of the CLNZ Cultural Fund.
Previous recipients comment on how the grant has helped them Kerry Sunderland received a recent grant for her book project: Deathwalker’s Guide to Life: how exploring death can help you live life more fully.
“The CLNZ|NZSA Research Grant has proved to be invaluable in the writing of a book inspired by my radio show and podcast, Deathwalker’s Guide to Life. The grant has not only enabled me to dive back into the 31 episodes I’ve already produced (by generating transcripts from my audio files), it’s also helped me identify where there are gaps, so I can conduct more interviews. In the book, I am weaving together the stories, wisdom, and practical advice my interviewees have shared, while reckoning with the repercussions of my own death denial in the past. Part memoir, part personal essay and part people profiles, readers will be encouraged to face their fears, empowered to embrace their own mortality, and supported to communicate more openly and honestly with their loved ones.” Lauren Keenan (Te Ātiawa ki Taranaki) was a recent grant recipient for her project Rākau: The Lost Tree.
“This Grant enabled me to spend more time visiting the historical sites I write about in my book and do high-quality research. This has, in turn, greatly enriched my manuscript.”
Rākau: The Lost Tree is a middle-grade novel about the New Zealand wars and will be the sequel to Lauren’s children’s book Amorangi and Millie’s Trip Through Time, about Taranaki’s history.
Want to Apply?
While a broad range of fiction and non-fiction writing projects are eligible for these grants, some works and projects are excluded so please check the guidelines carefully.
The CLNZ | NZSA Research Grants open for applications 9am Friday 23 May 2025, and will close at 4pm Friday 20 June 2025.
Submissions must be made online. Unsuccessful applicants will be advised before recipients are announced. Successful recipients will be contacted directly, and we will also publish the announcement on the CLNZ and NZSA websites and social media platforms.
NZSA is proud to be administering the awards in 2025. Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) plays a key role in making creative rights valuable assets for all New Zealanders, be they rightsholders like authors, publishers and artists, or users such as educators, students and businesses. CLNZ provides licences to help make copying, scanning and sharing printed works easy and legal.
New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc was established in 1934 and is the principal organisation representing writers’ interests in NZ. A national office oversees our branches, administers prizes and awards, offers contract advice and runs professional development programmes among other activities.
Source: Police investigating after shots fired at Hastings house
Ruahine Forest Park’s majestic beech forests and delicate understories are home to taonga species, yet these ecosystems are under pressure from browsing wild deer. But a new approach is taking root—one that brings communities, iwi, hunters and conservationists together to restore this cherished place.
The issue is that our national monitoring and reporting system show introduced wild browsing animals like deer are increasing in number, contributing to a decline in common tree species and changing the make-up of forests.
This is threatening the habitats where many of our native species live.
Localised monitoring in Ruahine Forest Park indicated relatively high numbers of ungulates (primarily deer) compared to national averages. Important understory plants, which help a forest regenerate and stabilise slopes, are disappearing.
This is not good!
What we saw was that taller plants preferred by deer and goats were very rare, while plants they avoid were common. This suggests that wild deer, goats, and pigs may have affected forest composition. Previously common plants like kamahi, broadleaf, mahoe, pate and tree fuchsia are now rare in Ruahine Forest Park.
The Plan: Adaptive Management
To address these very negative impacts, alongside local iwi/hapū, we are taking an adaptive management approach.
Basically, we’re taking a flexible, science-based approach.
And what this really means is trying different solutions, monitoring their effectiveness, and adjusting as we learn more, ensuring actions are guided by real-time insights.
Ruahine Forest Park presents unique challenges, including rugged terrain and a high risk of reinvasion by wild deer from surrounding areas. At the same time, the park is deeply valued by a wide range of users, from those who enjoy the outdoors and nature, to community restoration & conservation groups, adjoining landowners, recreational and commercial hunters.
Hunting for kai/food and sport have a long history here – common since red deer were first established in the park, with around 5,000-6,000 hunters visiting the Park annually.
So, the health of Ruahine Forest Park is our shared responsibility.
What we’re aiming to do is to enhance the effectiveness of deer removal efforts, to reduce the browsing impact of wild deer. To achieve this, together with our Treaty Partners we will focus on better aligning our work, the aspirations of iwi, wild animal recovery operations, recreational hunting, and work of other stakeholders.
Trevor Gratton, the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association’s Lower North Island Board Rep & Hutt Valley Branch President says, “As hunters, we value the opportunity to hunt in Ruahine Forest Park, but we also understand the need to manage deer numbers to protect the forest. A healthy forest ensures a sustainable habitat for all wildlife and preserves this special place for future generations.”
The adaptive management approach seeks to find solutions that addresses the conservation and management challenges of the park and maintains cultural and recreational values.
📷: Iwi visit to Ruahine Forest Park to discuss deer impacts. – DOC
Te Ao Māori: A Deep Connection to the Land
According to Māori kōrero tuku iho – stories passed from generation to generation – the range is part of the spine of the ika/fish Māui hauled up, known as Te Ika-a-Māui/the North Island. The Park holds significant value to tangata whenua, with deep connections through pā punanga/refuges, mahinga kai/food-gathering sites, the whakapapa/genealogy to the land that comes with place names, stories and wāhi tapu/sacred places. Kaitiakitanga/guardianship of the ngāhere/forest and the taonga/treasured flora and fauna is central to the role of tangata whenua.
Why Now?
When we assumed responsibility for the park in 1987, deer numbers were relatively low due to active commercial aerial hunting through the 1970’s to 1980’s. Since then, deer control has relied largely on recreational and commercial hunting, which has been declining over time. Thanks to additional funding, we are now expanding efforts to reduce deer numbers and monitor the effects on the forest. This builds on successful goat control programs and complements predator control projects happening in the park.
Together with local iwi/hapū we are drafting a deer management plan and getting advice from a newly established Community Deer Advisory Group.
Trial actions are taking place this autumn, and findings will help inform our longer-term management approach:
NZ Deerstalkers Association hunt: We worked with the Lower Hutt Branch to make it easier for hunters to fly by helicopter into the Western/Central area of Ruahine Forest Park. The hunt took place on 14-17 March 2025. Around 80 deer were removed. Hunters targeted hinds and the branch will provide DOC with track logs and kill way points, and hunter observations. This will help us assess the effectiveness of the hunt.
DOC aerial management: In May and June, we will carry out aerial control in the remote and hard to access North-West deer Management Unit (MU) – an area of 12,056 hectares. This work also complements possum and rat control being carried out in the Northern Ruahine’s high priority ecosystem unit, an area which contains a rich and diverse range of habitats and species. Where practical and within budget limitations, we will work with community to harvest meat from this operation.
Industry/WARO incentivisation: We have contracted the commercial venison industry to harvest 300 deer, operating under normal WARO permit conditions. Lower weight deer harvest is being incentivised. The work will start May 2025 and finish when the harvest target is met.
All three actions combined, make a start in addressing Ruahine deer impacts. We’ll continue working with the community to assess the effectiveness of each action and refine the deer management approach.
Stay tuned for updates on this exciting collaboration. In the meantime, explore the beautiful Ruahine Forest Park this summer and consider getting involved in community conservation projects.
Ruahine Forest Park’s future depends on all of us. Together, with adaptive deer management and a commitment to te taiao/the environment, we can ensure this precious ecosystem thrives for generations to come.
The Government is investing $246 million in a new fund over four years through Budget 2025 to supercharge growth and productivity in New Zealand’s world-leading food and fibre sector, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay announced today.
The new Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF) replaces the former Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund and will focus on practical projects that reduce costs across the food and fibre sector value chain and deliver stronger returns on investment to the farm and forest gate.
The Fund will support projects that are business-led, market-driven, and commercially focused – with a clear aim of delivering strong economic outcomes and high growth potential. “Every New Zealander depends on the success of the food and fibre sector – making up 80 per cent of our goods exports it powers our economy and puts food on our tables. Without agriculture and forestry, we would not be able to compete on the world stage,” Mr McClay says.
“That’s why the Government is moving at pace to increase farmgate returns, reduce compliance costs, implement smarter and better rules, and build resilience into rural communities.”
The PSGF refocuses MPI’s existing investment tools to back projects that drive higher-value outcomes across the food and fibre sector value chain – supporting the Government’s goal of doubling exports by value in 10 years and returning value to the farmgate.
“We’ll be working with the sector to find the best projects that help drive returns, including new high-value products, and providing practical tools for farmers and growers,” Mr McClay says.
“Projects that increase productivity and support the quality demanded by global consumers will remain a priority. As a trading nation, we need to enable initiatives that lift the bottom line, improve efficiency, and give our products a competitive edge in global markets.”
“This is about partnering with the sector to unlock real growth – helping producers, processors, and exporters to scale up, innovate, and deliver more value for the New Zealand economy,” Mr McClay says.
The Government is investing in the wellbeing of rural communities through a new fund that backs practical, on-the-ground programmes designed to build resilience and support the 360,000 hard working men and women who power our primary sector. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says Budget 2025 provides $2 million over four years for a new contestable Rural Wellbeing Fund to back farmers to back themselves. “When rural communities thrive, all of New Zealand benefits. The food and fibre sector is the engine of our economy, and that means backing both production and the hardworking people who drive it,” Mr McClay says. Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson says the fund builds on the Government’s Budget 2025 investment of an extra $1 million over four years to boost the work of Rural Support Trusts and other providers that support farmers and growers. “This is about giving rural people the tools and connections they need to stay supported. “Initiatives that bring people together through events, advice, or peer networks, are a key part of building long-term resilience across the sector,” Mr Patterson says. The fund will be administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries, with successful applicants selected by a governance group including industry representatives.
The Government is securing the backbone of rural New Zealand by supporting the volunteers and communities that bring A&P shows to life, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.Budget 2025 delivers $400,000 over four years to support more than 90 A&P shows across the country, providing each with a direct grant of $1,000 a year to help keep these iconic events running. “A&P shows are a cornerstone of rural life — they help bridge the urban rural divide, celebrate farming success, showcase our world best food and fibre, and are powered almost entirely by local volunteers,” Mr McClay says. “This is about backing the people behind the scenes who put in the hours to make these shows happen. Their work keeps communities connected and our rural culture alive.“When rural communities thrive, our whole country benefits. This is a practical investment in regional pride, rural resilience, and the communities that make our most productive sector stronger year after year,” Mr McClay says.
The Government is tackling the spread of wilding pines and backing rural resilience with a 20 per cent increase in funding this year – taking the total direct investment this coming year to $12 million. Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay, and Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says the Government is focused on protecting the productive heart of New Zealand’s economy. “Wilding pines cost the rural community significantly and are often the bane of farmers lives, we have an obligation to work with them to control their spread, and reduce on farm burden,” Mr McClay says. “This additional $2 million funding ensures those working to contain wildings over the next year can stay ahead of the spread. It’s a smart investment in rural productivity, land management, and our long-term rural resilience.” More than two million hectares are affected by wilding infestations, with untreated areas expanding by an estimated five per cent each year. Left unchecked, the economic impact could reach $3.6 billion over 50 years. Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says wilding pines threaten our farmland, water catchments, native biodiversity, and increase the risk of wildfires. They take over productive land, drain vital groundwater, and choke out native species. “Since 2016, the Government has invested more than $150 million into the National Wilding Conifer Control Programme, alongside more than $33 million contributed by partners and communities,” Mr Hoggard says. “This year’s investment continues to support the people doing the work – regional councils, iwi, farmers, researchers, and volunteers – who are making a real difference across ten priority regions. “We’ve pushed back some of the worst infestations and protected key landscapes. This funding keeps that momentum going and gives landowners the tools to protect and restore productive land.” The programme is led by Biosecurity New Zealand and delivered in partnership with councils, landowners, iwi, industry, and community groups.
The Government is backing farmers to lift on-farm productivity and improve land management through investment in catchment groups that support practical, locally-led solutions. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Environment and Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard says Budget 2025 commits $36 million over four years through MPI’s On Farm Support team—including $4.3 million for long-standing groups and new regional projects. “This funding supports farmer-led groups that are already delivering real results on the ground—improving water quality and land management, and helping farmers adapt to changing conditions,” Mr McClay says. “It includes $2.8 million in 2025/26 to extend funding for six established groups and the New Zealand Landcare Trust, giving them certainty to keep delivering trusted programmes in their communities.” The groups receiving continued support include Thriving Southland, Rangitīkei Rivers Catchment Collective, Wai Wānaka, Hurunui District Landcare Group, Eastern Plains, and King Country River Care. Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard says the Government is also investing in two new regional projects to expand reach and impact. “We’re putting $900,000 into the Karamu River Catchment Collective to support sub-catchment groups across the Heretaunga Plains, and $670,000 into the Piako Waihou Catchment Trust, which will deliver five demonstration sites focused on wetland restoration, waterway management, and the retirement of unproductive land,” Mr Hoggard says. “Catchment groups are a practical way to empower farmers to collaborate, innovate, and share knowledge. Farmers know their land best—this investment gives them the tools and support to manage it in a way that boosts productivity and delivers long-term environmental gains.”
Funding for New Zealand’s Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP) is set to be reduced by almost $36 million in Budget 2025.
This follows a cut of nearly $26 million in the 2024 budget.
As part of these budgetary savings, the Tauola Business Fund will be closed. But, $6.3 million a year will remain to support Pacific economic and business development through the Pacific Business Trust and Pacific Business Village.
The Budget cuts also affect the Tupu Aotearoa programme, which supports Pacific people in finding employment and training, alongside the Ministry of Social Development’s employment initiatives.
While $5.25 million a year will still fund the programme, a total of $22 million a year has been cut over the last four years.
The ministry will save almost $1 million by returning funding allocated for the Dawn Raids reconciliation programme from 2027/28 onwards.
There are two years of limited funding left to complete the ministry Dawn Raids programmes, which support the Crown’s reconciliation efforts.
Funding for Pasifika Wardens Despite these reductions, a new initiative providing funding for Pasifika Wardens will introduce $1 million of new spending over the next four years.
The initiative will improve services to Pacific communities through capacity building, volunteer training, transportation, and enhanced administrative support.
Funding for the National Fale Malae has ceased, as only $2.7 million of the allocated $10 million has been spent since funding was granted in Budget 2020.
The remaining $6.6 million will be reprioritised over the next two years to address other priorities within the Arts, Culture and Heritage portfolio, including the National Music Centre.
Foreign Affairs funding for the International Development Cooperation (IDC) projects, particularly focussed on the Pacific, is also affected. The IDC received an $800 million commitment in 2021 from the Labour government.
The funding was time-limited, leading to a $200 million annual fiscal cliff starting in January 2026.
Budget 2025 aims to mitigate this impact by providing ongoing, baselined funding of $100 million a year to cover half of the shortfall. An additional $5 million will address a $10 million annual shortfall in departmental funding.
Support for IDC projects The new funding will support IDC projects, emphasising the Pacific region without being exclusively aimed at climate finance objectives. Overall, $367.5 million will be allocated to the IDC over four years.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis said the Budget addressed a prominent fiscal cliff, especially concerning climate finance.
“The Budget addresses this, at least in part, through ongoing, baselined funding of $100 million a year, focused on the Pacific,” she said in her Budget speech.
“Members will not be surprised to know that the Minister of Foreign Affairs has made a case for more funding, and this will be looked at in future Budgets.”
More funding has been allocated for new homework and tutoring services for learners in Years nine and 10 at schools with at least 50 percent Pacific students to meet the requirements for the National Certificate of Educational Achievement (NCEA).
About 50 schools across New Zealand are expected to benefit from the initiative, which will receive nearly $7 million over the next four years, having been reprioritised from funding for the Pacific Education Programme.
As a result, funding will be stopped for three programmes aimed at supporting Tu’u Mālohi, Pacific Reading Together and Developing Mathematical Inquiry Communities.
Republished from Pacific Media Network News with permission.
Air New Zealand has announced it plans to resume its Auckland-Nouméa flights from November, almost one and a half years after deadly civil unrest broke out in the French Pacific territory.
“Air New Zealand is resuming its Auckland-Nouméa service starting 1 November 2025. Initially, flights will operate once a week on a Saturday. This follows the New Zealand Government’s decision to update its safe travel advisory level for New Caledonia”, the company stated in its latest update yesterday.
“The resumption of services reflects our commitment to reconnecting New Zealand and New Caledonia, ensuring that travel is safe and reliable for our customers. We will continue to monitor this route closely.
“Passengers are encouraged to check the latest travel advisories and Air New Zealand’s official channels for updates on flight schedules”, said Air New Zealand general manager short haul Lucy Hall.
In its updated advisory regarding New Caledonia, the New Zealand government still recommends “Exercise increased caution” (Level 2 of 4).
It said this was “due to the ongoing risk of civil unrest”.
In some specific areas (the Loyalty Islands, the Isle of Pines (Iles de Pins), and inland of the coastal strip between Mont Dore and Koné), it is still recommended to “avoid non-essential travel (Level 3 of 4).”
Warning over ‘civil unrest’ The advisory also recalls that “there was a prolonged period of civil unrest in New Caledonia in 2024. Political tensions and civil unrest may increase at short notice”.
“Avoid all demonstrations, protests, and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning”.
Air New Zealand ceased flights between Auckland and the French territory’s capital, Nouméa on 15 June 2024, at the height of violent civil unrest.
Since then, it has maintained its no-show for the French Pacific territory, one of its closest neighbours.
Air New Zealand’s general manager international Jeremy O’Brien said at the time this was due to “pockets of unrest” remaining in New Caledonia and “safety is priority”.
New Caledonia’s international carrier Air Calédonie International (Aircalin) is also operating two weekly flights to Auckland from the Nouméa-La Tontouta international airport.
The riots that broke out on 13 May 2024 resulted in 14 deaths and more than 2.2 billion euros (NZ$4.1 billion) in damages, bringing New Caledonia’s economy to its knees, with thousands of businesses and jobs destroyed.
Tourism from its main regional source markets, namely Australia and New Zealand, also came to a standstill.
Specifically regarding New Zealand, local statistics show that between the first quarters of 2024 and 2025, visitor numbers collapsed by 90 percent (from 1731 to 186).
New Caledonia’s tourism stakeholders have welcomed the resumption of the service to and from New Zealand, saying this will allow the industry to relaunch targeted promotional campaigns in the New Zealand market.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
The Government is backing the grassroots work of Rural Women New Zealand – the people who support and connect rural families, communities, and businesses across the country.
Budget 2025 includes a $250,000 investment for the 2025/26 financial year to help the organisation expand its reach during its centenary year and continue its vital role supporting rural families and communities.
“If agriculture is the backbone of the New Zealand economy, then rural women are its beating heart,” Associate Agriculture Minister Nicola Grigg says.
“Rural women are at the heart of our rural economy – they lead businesses, care for families, and hold communities together.
“By backing Rural Women New Zealand, we’re investing in the strength and resilience of the rural sector itself. This is about ensuring women have the resources and support they need to lead their communities into the next century.”
Founded in 1925, the organisation has stood the test of time by adapting to the evolving needs of rural women and their communities.
“Rural Women New Zealand has been a backbone of rural life for 100 years,” Minister for Rural Communities Mark Patterson says.
“This funding will support the important work they do every day – helping connect people to services, building strong local networks, and advocating for rural voices to be heard.”
Police are issuing a reminder to the Rodney community to be vigilant with items being stolen from building sites and new builds.
Waitematā North Police have seen an increase in Gas califonts being stolen recently.
Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Roger Small says they are simple to remove and easy to on sell in places such as Facebook Marketplace.
“We are seeing an increase in the theft of these units, predominately from homes that are currently under construction.
“These homes are often easy to access as they are not yet properly secured, giving would be thieves an easy entrance.”
Potential prevention measures include but are not limited to:
-Installing a security bracket, which can be fitted into the back of the califonts and make it much harder to be removed. Such brackets can be purchased with the unit, or from most hardware shops for a small cost. “These brackets would significantly slow down offenders, making your property a less attractive target,” Senior Sergeant Small says.
– Install the califont as late in the building process as possible as an occupied dwelling is far less appealing to offenders.
– CCTV is a fantastic deterrent and investigative tool.
Top tips: • Record serial numbers (either write it down or take a photo) – as we recover stolen property regularly. • Is it too good to be true? Items sold online at a cheap price may be stolen property! • Report offending to Police online • Be vigilant – if you see suspicious activity call Police on 111
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. ENDS.
The Coalition Government is seeking feedback on proposed regulatory options for the development of naturally occurring and orange hydrogen, an overlooked resource that could drive economic growth, energy resilience and innovation.
A discussion document launched for consultation today rules out a blanket approach to Crown ownership of all hydrogen in its natural state and presents high-level proposals for how the development of the resource could be managed under existing or new legislation.
“Natural and orange hydrogen could be game-changers for New Zealand’s energy sector, particularly for our hard-to-electrify industries and in reducing our reliance on imported fossil fuels,” Resources Minister Shane Jones says.
“The development of this resource has largely been overlooked due to misconceptions that accumulations are rare. Recent discoveries, including one of the world’s few documented hydrogen seeps in Fiordland, tell us more about how it forms in different geologies.
“We are also a prospective destination for the development of orange hydrogen which is created with intervention utilising certain minerals below ground. While these technologies are still emerging, global interest in exploring New Zealand’s potential is growing. To realise the opportunity, we need a clear and certain regulatory framework that sets us up for success.”
Developing a regulatory regime advances a coalition commitment between New Zealand First and the National Party to ensure the Government’s energy settings allow for the exploration of natural hydrogen to maximise future energy resilience.
“My officials have explored how the Crown Minerals Act 1991 (CMA) in its current form could be used to develop naturally occurring hydrogen and have determined that the status quo would not provide the clear and certain regulatory pathway operators would need to make investment decisions,” Mr Jones says.
“I am now seeking feedback on proposals that include regulating natural and orange hydrogen as a mineral through an amendment to the CMA; treating it as a natural resource under the Resource Management Act 1991; or a new allocation regime that could be developed.
“Alternative ideas and regulatory options that may be better suited for this emerging sector are also welcome. I will be very clear, however, that the Crown is not considering the nationalisation of all hydrogen in its natural state.
“My objective here is to get the right settings in place to enable New Zealand to be a world leader in realising the potential of natural and orange hydrogen. We recognise the varied interests in this space, particularly those of Māori, and want to work collaboratively and productively on a pathway forward.”
Consultation closes on 4 July 2025. To see the consultation document and for more information on how to make a submission go to the MBIE website.
Police are actively pursuing positive leads to locate the person involved in an incident in Tauranga, during which a driver allegedly brandished a knife at another motorist.
Western Bay of Plenty Relieving Area Commander Inspector Logan Marsh said Police are taking the incident seriously and are conscious of information suggesting it may not be a one-off event.
“We are working to locate the person involved in the incident with urgency. This incident is absolutely concerning, and quite frankly it won’t be tolerated,” Inspector Marsh said.
“We are aware of the social media comments suggesting this is not an isolated event, and it’s important that we hear from anyone who has experienced a similar incident on the road so we can put a stop to it.”
Inspector Marsh encouraged anyone who has information or footage of this incident, or any similar incidents in the area, to report it Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report”, or by calling 105.
Police have arrested a man committing a string of burglaries this morning in Napier, in what a local officer is calling great back-to-basics Police work.
Senior Sergeant Su Robinson, Napier Response Manager, says: “At around 8am, a male was seen trying to open a person’s garage door, before leaving in a vehicle of interest.
“Officers had seen the vehicle acting suspiciously earlier and quickly identified the driver as a person of interest, also.
“Police were able to track the man to an industrial area where it is believed he was going to dispose of property stolen from another address.
Senior Sergeant Robinson says the quick actions of Police meant officers were able to stop the vehicle and arrest the male without incident.
“Using the knowledge we have around local people of interest, acting quickly, and using the technology we have available has led to an excellent result.
“The community can be assured, their homes and property are safer due to actions taken,” Senior Sergeant Robinson says.
The 51-year-old man is now facing two charges of burglary, one charge of possessing instruments for burglary, and one of receiving stolen property.
The man was due to appear in Napier District Court today.
Regulation Minister David Seymour welcomes the passing of a Bill for transparent and principled lawmaking, with the Regulatory Standards Bill passing its first reading in Parliament today. “New Zealand’s low wages can be blamed on low productivity, and low productivity can be blamed on poor regulation. To raise productivity, we must allow people to spend more time on productive activities and less time on compliance,” says Mr Seymour. The Regulatory Standards Bill:
provides a benchmark for good legislation through a set of principles of responsible regulation enables transparent assessment of the consistency of proposed and existing legislation with the principles establishes a Regulatory Standards Board to independently consider the consistency of proposed and existing legislation, and strengthens regulatory quality by supporting the Ministry for Regulation in its regulatory oversight role.
“In a nutshell: If red tape is holding us back, because politicians find regulating politically rewarding, then we need to make regulating less rewarding for politicians with more sunlight on their activities. That is how the Regulatory Standards Bill will help New Zealand get its mojo back. It will finally ensure regulatory decisions are based on principles of good law-making and economic efficiency,” Mr Seymour says. “Ultimately, this Bill will help the Government achieve its goal of improving New Zealand’s productivity by ensuring that regulated parties are regulated by a system which is transparent, has a mechanism for recourse, and holds regulators accountable to the people. “The law doesn’t stop politicians or their officials making bad laws, but it makes it transparent that they’re doing it. It makes it easier for voters to identify those responsible for making bad rules. Over time, it will improve the quality of rules we all have to live under by changing how politicians behave. “In a high-cost economy, regulation isn’t neutral – it’s a tax on growth. This Government is committed to clearing the path of needless regulations by improving how laws are made.” Notes to editors: The Regulatory Standards Bill can be found here: Regulatory Standards Bill 155-1 (2025), Government Bill Contents – New Zealand Legislation
Investment Boost has passed into law, meaning a major new tax incentive to encourage businesses to invest, grow the economy, and lift wages is now in place, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says. “Investment Boost takes effect immediately. This means businesses that go out today and buy machinery or tools or equipment or vehicles or technology can immediately deduct 20 per cent of that cost from taxable income – meaning a much lower tax bill. “The feedback to Investment Boost has already been massive, with businesses telling us it will be a game-changer. “This change will benefit farmers, tradies, hairdressers, manufacturers, and other businesses by helping them invest in productivity improving assets. It is all designed to help firms become more competitive and, therefore, able to lift workers’ wages. “The Treasury and Inland Revenue estimate Investment Boost will improve economic growth, lifting New Zealand’s GDP by 1 per cent, wages by 1.5 per cent and our capital stock by 1.6 per cent over the next 20 years, with around half these gains expected in the first five years. “Investment Boost applies to new assets purchased in New Zealand as well as new and used assets imported from overseas. It includes commercial buildings but excludes land, residential buildings, and assets already in use in New Zealand. “There’s no cap on the value of eligible investments. All businesses, regardless of size, can benefit. “Investment Boost delivers more bang for buck than a company tax cut because it only applies to new investments, not those made in the past. “The policy will reward businesses who make new investments by reducing their tax bills in the year they purchase new assets. For example, with Investment Boost, an advanced manufacturing firm that purchases a $200,000 environmental test chamber would reduce its tax bill by more than $10,000 in the year of purchase. “After many difficult years, New Zealand is once again on a steady economic growth path, thanks to our careful economic management supporting lower inflation, lower interest rates, and more business-friendly policies. “Businesses have been knocked around by challenging local and international economic conditions. This tax incentive shows that we are backing them to succeed. “Now is the right time to support New Zealand’s economic recovery by making it easier for businesses to invest, hire more workers, pay them better, and contribute more to our long-term prosperity. “It is only through a strong economy we can create jobs, lift incomes and afford the frontline public services like schools, hospitals and Police that Kiwis deserve.”
Wellington Police are continuing to appeal for sightings of missing man Michael, who was reported missing on 19 May.
Police and Michael’s family are becoming increasingly concerned for his safety.
It has now been established that the last known sighting of him was on CCTV at the intersection of Bouverie Street and Udy Street in Petone at about 2:45pm on 19 May 2025.
He was wearing the clothing pictured in the images shared here.
Police are asking anyone who was in the Petone or Alicetown areas on the afternoon of 19 May who may have information, or may have seen Michael, to contact Police through our 105 service, quoting reference number 250520/2542.
We are also asking for anyone with dashcam footage, or residents or businesses with CCTV footage, to review their footage for any sightings of Michael on the afternoon in question.
Anyone who believes they see Michael is urged to call 111 immediately.
New Zealanders are a step closer to being able to build a granny flat of up to 70 square metres in their backyard following the successful first reading of the Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dwellings) Bill in Parliament. “It’s currently far too hard to build the homes New Zealanders need, with even the simplest dwellings requiring time-consuming and costly consent processes,” RMA Reform and Housing Minister Chris Bishop says.
“We know increasing housing availability directly translates to lower living costs for our communities. That’s why the coalition Government is committed to making it faster and more affordable to build granny flats. These simple dwellings have the potential to be part of the solution for providing families with more housing options, particularly for grandparents, people with disabilities, young adults and workers in the rural sector.
“Following public consultation which received huge support, the Government agreed earlier this year to allow granny flats of up to 70 square metres to be built without resource or building consents.
“We’re removing the requirement for a resource consent through our updated package of National Direction under the Resource Management Act which will be in place by the end of this year, and today’s first reading of the Building and Construction (Small Standalone Dwellings) Bill ensures we’ll remove the requirement for a building consent at around the same time.”
Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says removing consent requirements for granny flats will boost productivity in the building sector. “Tradies will be able to get on with the job without being bogged down by costly and time-consuming paperwork, while homeowners can have confidence their granny flat project won’t be hit by unexpected costs from delays waiting for council inspections. “The consent exemption is expected to deliver about 13,000 more granny flats over the next ten years. That’s thousands of homes built faster and more affordably, and more consistent work for builders – without frustrating hold-ups.” The legislation delivers on a New Zealand First–National coalition commitment to reform the building and resource consent system to simplify granny flat construction. Associate Finance Minister Shane Jones says the changes will help lift living standards and support multigenerational living. “This will allow older New Zealanders to maintain their independence while staying close to whānau. It’s also a practical solution for young adults, especially in rural areas where housing options are limited. “I look forward to seeing this Bill passed by the end of the year, so families can start building these much-needed homes without delay.”
Note to editors:
The Bill will exempt granny flats of up to 70 square metres from needing a building consent if:
The granny flat meets the requirements of being a simple design and meets the Building Code
Building work is carried out by authorised building professionals
Homeowners notify their local council before they commence building and once it is completed.
To support local infrastructure in growing communities, councils will charge development contributions for granny flats when issuing a Project Information Memorandum (PIM).
The proposed consent exemption will not apply to any building work currently in progress or existing structures that fit the specifications of a granny flat under the final exemption criteria. It will apply only to granny flats built after the exemption is in force.
Anyone who is unsure whether their building work needs a building or resource consent should check with their local council.
