AM Edition: Top 10 Politics Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for July 14, 2026 – Full Text

MIL OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is supporting Bay of Plenty’s economic growth with funding for two projects through the Regional Infrastructure Fund, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.

“These investments are about backing the infrastructure and resources that will drive long-term regional growth and economic prosperity,” Mr Jones says.

The Government is investing $12.5 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) towards the development of Ōpōtiki Marina, supporting construction of a marina basin, wharf and piers, a boat ramp, and related marine infrastructure. Up to 87 jobs will be supported during construction.

“This is the final major infrastructure component needed to support the scale-up of aquaculture in Ōpōtiki.

“The marina will provide year-round safe berthing for aquaculture and commercial vessels, improve the efficiency of mussel harvesting and servicing operations, and support further investment in marine industries,” Mr Jones says.

The funding is made up of a loan and equity. Project partners will provide co-funding of $12.5m.

The investment builds on significant investment already made by central government, iwi and local government to establish aquaculture farms, a mussel spat facility in Te Kaha, and a mussel-processing facility and a new harbour entrance in Ōpōtiki. 

Separately, a $3m grant from RIF funding ring-fenced for geothermal projects will support the Gas to Geoheat – Tauranga Geothermal System Project, an early-stage geothermal exploration initiative in partnership with local landowners. The project will drill two test wells in the Mount Maunganui industrial area and Te Puke/Rangiuru area. 

“This is a public-good initiative that will support potential future energy projects such as neighbourhood central heating networks in which geothermal heat is supplied through a shared network to multiple buildings instead of each building installing its own system,” Mr Jones says. 

Led by GeoExchange NZ Limited and landowners, the project will create publicly available geothermal data that will help in understanding the resource and renewable energy opportunities for the region. The project is expected to create 15-20 jobs during delivery.

“The Bay of Plenty is rich in natural resources with economic potential. These investments will help unlock that potential, support jobs, strengthen energy security and create opportunities for future regional development,” Mr Jones says. 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/bay-of-plenty-projects-backed-by-rif-investment/

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is backing Lifeline, alongside Youthline and Whakarongorau, through a more than $10 million package to strengthen mental health and addiction telehealth services and help more New Zealanders get the faster access to support they need, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“It can be disheartening to reach out for support while in distress and find yourself waiting for too long. For someone reaching out, whether it be for the first time or not, that moment on the other end of the line can be incredibly important,” Mr Doocey says.

“Lifeline is one of New Zealand’s best-known mental health support services and has been there for New Zealanders through some of the toughest moments in their lives for more than 60 years.

“This investment recognises the vital role Lifeline plays. After more than a decade without dedicated Government funding, this investment is a significant step in recognising the value of the service it provides.

“This funding gives Lifeline the certainty it needs over the next year to continue supporting New Zealanders. The Government will continue to make funding available beyond this year, with an open procurement process allowing telehealth providers, including Lifeline, to apply for longer-term funding through baseline.

“This package will support around 16,000 additional calls and interactions and increase capacity across the sector by around 15 per cent, helping more people access support whether it be by phone, text or other digital channels.

“Youthline will receive additional funding to increase its existing Government funded capacity by 44 per cent and respond to around 4,400 more contacts from young people seeking support. Whakarongorau will also receive additional funding to help meet growing demand.

“The package also includes funding to develop and roll out an AI enabled triage and referral tool across mental health and addiction helplines. This will help improve the experience of people seeking support by consistently identifying their needs, and connecting people with the service best placed to support them.

“We have heard from telehealth providers that too many New Zealanders are waiting too long for support, with higher call volumes, more complex needs, and some people unable to connect with support when demand is high. This investment helps respond to that.

“Telehealth services are often the first place people turn when they need help. When someone takes that step and reaches out, they deserve to know there will be someone there to listen.”

Note to editor:

The breakdown of the funding includes:

• $3.9 million over four years to expand mental health and addiction telehealth services.
• $2 million over four years for Youthline to expand its existing Government funded capacity by 44 per cent, enabling it to respond to around 4,400 additional calls.
• $1.2 million to support the continued operation of Lifeline for 2026/2027.
• $3.35 million over four years to develop and implement an AI-enabled triage and referral tool across publicly funded mental health and addiction helplines.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/telehealth-investment-to-deliver-faster-access-to-support/

Source: New Zealand Government

A $3.5 million Government project is aimed at getting 100 people with progressive conditions including Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy, into high-performance power wheelchairs, exploring the benefits of high tech in the disability sector, Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston has announced.

“This is a really exciting opportunity for our Disability Support Services team to work with provider Enable New Zealand on a project funded from Budget 2025,” Louise Upston says.

“In this research project, high-performance power wheelchairs are going to people aged 14 years and older, who would benefit from a power wheelchair to improve independence, participation, and quality of life.

“It’s a two-year programme, and the Government is really excited to fund meaningful research evaluating social and economic benefits for the disability community.

“I’m proud that our Government is thinking differently about how technology can improve the lives of disabled people, families and carers.  That’s why I asked DSS to consider a project like this, where technology could demonstrably improve outcomes.

“International research shows that having the right wheelchair matters for things like increased independence and mental wellbeing, and broader outcomes such as engagement in education, training, or work. This project aims to test these assumptions in the New Zealand context.

“Earlier access to high-performance power wheelchairs can reduce dependence on carers and prevent injuries and hospital admissions. While cheaper options might provide short term cost-savings, they can also drive higher long-term health and support costs, which end up costing disabled people, and New Zealand, more.

“The project will monitor and evaluate the benefits that access to the right wheelchair can provide to people with progressive conditions. Findings will inform the future provision of equipment, and will also inform future policy, funding, and investment decisions.  

“Using disability research innovation ‘activation mapping’, participants will have their experiences tracked over time to understand intervention impacts.

“Assistive technology is essential to the wellbeing and social participation of many disabled New Zealanders, and I’m committed to improving access and outcomes for disabled people,” Louise Upston says.   

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/power-wheelchairs-open-new-horizons-for-disabled-kiwis/

MIL OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

Hunter-led conservation has reached a new milestone, with Fiordland wapiti deer formally designated as New Zealand’s first Herd of Special Interest (HOSI).

Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager says the move paves the way for the game animals to be sustainably managed for their hunting values, while improving important conservation outcomes.

Mr Meager made the announcement in Te Anau alongside the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation, who will lead the HOSI’s on-the-ground delivery based on annual operational plans developed with DOC, in partnership with iwi and hapū.

“This is an exciting and logical step for valued introduced species, which have significant heritage and cultural values to many Kiwis,” Mr Meager says.

“The framework enables structured, hunter-led herd management within Fiordland National Park, while continuing to protect and enhance its treasured landscape.

“It builds on the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation’s excellent long-standing work, which includes regular culling, management of the popular wapiti ballot, track and hut maintenance, and trapping to protect at-risk native species like whio/blue duck.

“I believe the designation is a win-win for all. It will help manage deer numbers to sustainable herd levels, ensure hunters pull healthy animals off the public back country to put on the family dinner table, and better protect our biodiversity.”

The management plan does not seek to increase animal numbers. A key focus will be to help native vegetation recover by reducing browsing pressure, so young plants can survive and ecosystems can regenerate over time.

Mr Meager says strong environmental oversight will be in place, with annual reporting on herd management and monitoring to be made publicly available.

“New Zealand’s responsibility to protect Fiordland’s World Heritage values remains unchanged. I retain overall authority and can amend or remove the designation, or any delegation, if required,” Mr Meager says.

The decision follows a full statutory process, including public submissions, engagement with Treaty partners, and advice from agencies and organisations. 

“I thank everyone who contributed. Your input has helped inform a balanced outcome that recognises both the value of hunting and the importance of protecting our unique natural environment,” Mr Meager says.

“This is a piece of work spanning more than a decade, with legislation supporting the creation of HOSIs passed back in 2013. I am proud to deliver on the National Party’s 2023 election promise to designate the first herds this Parliamentary term.”

Notes to Editor:

• The designation will take effect once hunting conditions for the wapiti ballot are formally set out in the New Zealand Gazette, establishing how access will be managed during the annual bugle season.
• Current access arrangements will remain in place, including the ballot system during the bugle season.
• The Herd Management Plan was created in consultation with community, hunters, conservationists, and engagement with iwi and hapu. It sets clear expectations, including ecological targets, regular monitoring, and a review at least every five years.
• Assessment of effects on Fiordland National Park’s UNESCO World Heritage values indicates HOSI management is likely to improve ecological outcomes compared to areas without active management, noting the coordinated deer management and monitoring involved with a HOSI.
• A decision on the proposed Sika Herd of Special Interest will be made by Minister Meager imminently. 

Designation Timeline:

• March 2025: Proposal received from the Fiordland Wapiti Foundation and Game Animal Council.
• May – October 2025: On behalf of the Minister, DOC engages with Treaty partners and relevant agencies and organisations to assess whether the herd is of special interest to hunters and can be managed for hunting purposes, alongside development of a draft Herd Management Plan.
• November – December 2025: Public submissions on draft Herd Management Plan open.
• December 2025 – March 2026: Submissions reviewed.
• March – June 2026: Draft Herd Management Plan revised based on public submissions and Treaty partners and relevant agencies and organisations are re-engaged on changes. 
• July 2026: HOSI designation.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/milestone-for-hunter-led-conservation-in-nz/

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is visiting India this week to promote New Zealand premium strong wool and strengthen relationships at the Bharat Tex 2026 – Global Textile Expo.

“India is currently New Zealand’s second largest market for wool – it is a key market for Kiwi wool growers and exporters and there is strong potential for further growth” Mr Patterson says.

“I will be attending Bharat Tex 2026, India’s largest global textile trade expo showcasing innovation, sustainable fabrics, apparel, fashion, and global textiles, to speak at a business roundtable and champion New Zealand strong wool.

“I will also meet with key figures across India’s wool supply chain, including in India’s Textile Minister, manufacturers, and researchers.”

Mr Patterson says new demand opportunities are emerging for strong wool as consumers and brands see the sustainability benefits of natural fibres.

“The government remains fully committed to backing the long-term success of our Kiwi wool growers, and the wider wool sector, to tap into increasing global demand for innovative, premium wool products.

“We are investing more than $65 million with the wool sector in 25 projects to drive innovative and high-value opportunities and products, facilitate collaboration, and improve supply chain capability.

“Projects include innovative wool applications in acoustics, insulation, filtration, personal care and biotech ingredients such as inks, coatings, cosmetics, nutraceuticals and medical materials.”

Minister Patterson returns from India on 17 July.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/patterson-to-india-to-champion-new-zealand-wool/

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has welcomed the release of new Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) guidance that will make it easier for international investors to understand and navigate New Zealand’s Overseas Investment Act (the Act), particularly in the supermarket and grocery sector. 

“New investment means more choices and lower prices at the checkout. If we want new investment, we need to stop doing things that repel it and start doing things that attract it,” Mr Seymour says. 

“That’s why we’ve issued new guidelines which roll out the red carpet for credible investors looking to open a new supermarket in NZ. The guidelines specify to investors which provisions of the Act apply to them, what tests their investment needs to meet, and how LINZ will apply those tests to their application. This will give investors more certainty when making their applications. 

“We want to make it as easy as possible for credible investors to establish or expand grocery retail operations in New Zealand. The more options there are for kiwis, the more competition there is within the market. This will lead to lower prices for Kiwis at the checkout. 

“This government has been focussed on attracting more international investment, and we’ve made a great start. For example, we’ve also reformed how applications under the Act are processed. 

“In the past financial year, LINZ have granted consent to 230 transactions with a gross investment value of approximately $23.8 billion. The second highest number of consents granted in one year was 201, in 2024/25. 

“The new law says decisions on all investments except residential land, farmland and fishing quota must be made within 15 working days, unless there is a potential national interest concern, but the target is five working days. Residential land, farmland and fishing quota will continue going through existing pathways.”

LINZ have met the target assessment timeframes for the new investment pathways. Specifically:

• Average assessment timeframes for business and production forestry investments had already halved since June 2024 and continue to reduce. Since the Amendment Act took effect, these investments are now approved in just four working days.
• Since our Government was elected, we’ve reduced the average processing time from 71 working days to 23.

“The changes to processing applications have created efficiencies across the overall regime which will free up resource for supermarket applications,” Mr Seymour says. 

“New Zealand has been turning away opportunities for growth for too long. International investment is critical to ensuring economic growth. It provides access to capital and technology that grows New Zealand businesses, enhances productivity, and supports high paying jobs.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/guidance-to-increase-supermarket-competition-and-help-lower-prices/

Source: New Zealand Government

A major aquaculture settlement between the Crown and Te Moana-a-Toi iwi that will deliver significant growth and opportunity to the Bay of Plenty is being celebrated today.

Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones attended a ceremony in Tauranga for the agreement, signed in February under the Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Act 2004.

“This important milestone delivers on the Crown’s settlement obligations, supports aquaculture development in the region, and ensures iwi take a leading role in the resulting workforce development and economic growth,” Mr Jones says. 

“The Bay of Plenty has the potential to grow its position as an important contributor to the success of our aquaculture sector.”

The Crown and 12 Te Moana-a-Toi iwi aquaculture organisations agreed to a package of assets representing 5000ha of new aquaculture space.

The Bay of Plenty is home to New Zealand’s open ocean mussel farming, which has been identified as having the potential to reach an annual revenue of $200m by 2035. 

“Achieving this will have major benefits for the Bay of Plenty, generating export dollars and stable jobs that strengthen local communities. I understand iwi in the region are planning to work collectively to develop the new aquaculture space, which will provide significant economic benefits to the region as a whole.

“I thank and acknowledge Te Moana-a-Toi iwi for their leadership throughout the settlement process. We are celebrating, not just the agreement we have reached, but also the prosperity and opportunity that aquaculture growth will provide to the Bay of Plenty.”

The Aquaculture Development Plan, launched by Mr Jones last year, provides a path to the Government’s goal of increasing New Zealand’s aquaculture revenue to $3 billion per year by 2035.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/aquaculture-agreement-with-bay-of-plenty-iwi/

Source: New Zealand Government

A giant underwater dredge device designed to remove large areas of exotic caulerpa seaweed has performed well in recent testing at Omākiwi Cove in Northland, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says.

“Known as the submersible dredge planer (SDP), the remotely operated equipment was developed for Biosecurity New Zealand by Northland Regional Council, which contracted local company Johnson Brothers Ltd to design and build it.

I’m thrilled that field tests over the past few weeks have shown the machinery works as expected and will be a useful addition to our toolbox of treatment methods.”

The SDP is the last of three removal tools developed using the $10 million we allocated in 2024 to tackle this invasive seaweed. The other two are a UV-C light treatment to irradiate caulerpa, and a scalable enclosure system (the ‘Rehabitat’) that contains and seals chlorine over affected areas.

The trials, supported by the Cawthron Institute and Ngāti Kuta and Patukeha hapū, demonstrated the SDP’s mechanical performance, manoeuvrability and functionality. Environmental impacts are still being assessed.

“Developing the SDP has been a mammoth effort. Two key components – the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and the control room had to be sourced from Scotland. There was no off-the-shelf solution available anywhere in the world, so it’s been custom designed for New Zealand conditions. Its unique screw propulsion system, for example, allows it to operate effectively on soft, sandy seabeds like those in the Bay of Islands.

It’s driven by remote control and fitted with blades to cut through caulerpa mats and a large dredge system to suction material to the surface for disposal. It’s a great example of Number 8 wire Kiwi ingenuity.”
A challenge for testing has been the absence of caulerpa at the trial site. The SDP was conceived when the weed blanketed Omākiwi Cove, but recent dieback events have left only sparse populations.

“Despite this, we now have a good understanding of the speed and area the SDP can cover in a day, and it’s ready to go should dense caulerpa return. It can also be modified for use on other species in both salt and freshwater environments.

Having a range of tested treatment tools – including large-scale removal technology like the SDP is important so we can respond quickly to control or eliminate invasive species in future.”
 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/13/6-million-caulerpa-removal-tool-shows-promise-in-northland/