AM Edition: Top 10 Politics Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for August 19, 2026 – Full Text

Source: New Zealand Government

Businesses will now have certainty around their climate change obligations with legislation passing its final reading in Parliament today, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“Ongoing litigation in the High Court, where an applicant has brought civil claims against six major businesses for their greenhouse gas emissions, risks developing a new regime that contradicts the framework Parliament has already enacted. It’s creating uncertainty in business confidence and investment. 

“Therefore, the Government is amending the Climate Change Response Act 2002 to prevent findings of liability in tort for climate change damage or harm caused by greenhouse gas emissions in both current and future proceedings before the courts. 

“The courts are not the right place to resolve claims of harm from climate change, and tort law is not well-suited to respond to a problem like climate change which involves a range of complex environmental, economic and social factors.

“Our response to climate change is best managed by the Government at a national level and not through piece-meal litigation in the courts. New Zealand already has a legal framework to manage greenhouse gas emissions set through Parliament through the Climate Change Response Act 2002 and the Emissions Trading Scheme. 

“This law change will not alter the Government’s responsibilities under the Climate Change Response Act and businesses that have obligations under the ETS will still be required to meet them.

“Our government is committed to fixing the basics, and certainty of law is essential for businesses to operate, attracting overseas investment, and stimulating economic growth.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/government-clarifies-climate-change-tort-law/

Source: New Zealand Government

Te Here-ā-Nuku (Nelson Tenths) Bill passed its third reading in Parliament today, finalising the restoration of approximately 3000 hectares of land at the top of the South Island to its rightful owners, announced Attorney General Chris Bishop and Conservation Minister Tama Potaka.

“As held by the High Court, the land, in parts of Nelson, Tasman and Golden Bay, had always belonged to descendants of its original owners, and the Crown had held it for many years as trustee” says Mr Bishop.

“Restoring the land to the rightful owners is a significant conclusion for both parties to a more than 180 year wrong.”

“This is a significant occasion for the Crown and the beneficial owners of Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust, achieved through the commitment of both parties to acknowledge ownership and existing use of the land,” says Mr Potaka.

“Allowances have been made for the Crown to lease back some of the private land currently being used by the Department of Conservation and for other important public purposes.

“Continued public and visitor use of the coast track along the Abel Tasman Great Walk, and public reserves at key sites like Tōtaranui and Kaiteretere has been arranged with Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust.” 

“I want to acknowledge Mr Stafford and his whānau for their patience and Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust for their understanding and dedication to resolving this law case,” says Mr Bishop.

“The next step, after the Bill receives Royal Assent, is the transfer of legal title to trust land from the Crown, as previous trustee, to the trustees of Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust.  

I pānuitia e te Rōia Matua Chris Bishop rāua ko te Minita Kaupapa Atawhai Minita Tama Potaka i te pahurenga o Te Pire Te Here-ā-Nuku (Nelson Tenths) i tōna pānuitanga tuatoru i te Whare Pāremata i te rangi nei, e whakatutuki ana i te whakahokinga o te āhua 3000 heketea o te whenua kei te pito whakarunga o Te Waipounamu ki ōna kaipupuri tūturu.

“I runga i te whakamanatanga o te Kooti Teitei, nō mai rā anō kua noho tēnei whenua, i Te Tai o Aorere me Te Tai Tapu, hei whenua nō ngā uri whakaheke o ōna kaipupuri tūturu, ā, kua roa e puritia ana e te Karauna hei tarahitī” te kī a Bishop.

“Ka mutu te pai o tēnei whakataunga te whakahokinga o te whenua ki ōna kaipupuri tūturu hei whakaea i te hē o te 180 tau kua pahure ake nei.

“He kaupapa nui whakaharahara mā te Karauna me ngā kaipupuri whaipānga o Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust, i tutuki i runga i te kaingākau o ngā taha e rua ki te āhukahuka i te kaipupuritanga me te whakamahinga o nāianei o te whenua,” te kī a Minita Potaka.

“Kua oti ngā whakaritenga kia taea ai e te Karauna te rīhi anō i ētahi o te whenua tūmataiti e whakamahia kētia ana e Te Papa Atawhai, otirā, mō ētahi atu take nui mā te iwi whānui.

“Kua oti te whakaritenga ki te taha o Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust kia haere tonu te whakamahinga o te ara takutai i te iwi whānui me ngā kaitoro i te Abel Tasman Great Walk, me ngā tāpui tūmatanui i ngā wāhi matua pēnā ki Tōtaranui me Kaiteretere  

“Me mihi ka tika te manawanui a Stafford me tōna whānau, otirā, Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust mō te māramatanga me te ngākau nui ki te whakatau i tēnei kēhi ā-ture,” te kī a Bishop.

“Ko te mahi ināianei kei mua i te aroaro, i muri i te Whakaaetanga a te Karauna, ko te whakawhitinga o te taitara ā-ture ki te whenua taratī i te Karauna, te tarahitī o mua, ki ngā tarahitī o Te Here-ā-Nuku Trust.  

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/te-here-a-nuku-nelson-tenths-bill-passes-third-reading/

Source: New Zealand Government

A mountain in Fiordland National Park has been officially named Mount Kirk in honour of former Prime Minister Rt Hon Norman Kirk.

Minister for Land Information Hon Mike Butterick has confirmed the decision of Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa New Zealand Geographic Board to assign Mount Kirk as the official name of a previously unnamed 1,436-metre mountain near Lake Manapouri.

“Norman Kirk remains one of New Zealand’s most significant political figures and is remembered for his leadership, vision and commitment to public service,” Mr Butterick says.

“I am pleased that naming this mountain Mount Kirk recognises his contribution to New Zealand and commemorates a Prime Minister whose leadership left a lasting mark on the country.

“Fifty years on from his death in office, it is fitting that his legacy is reflected in an enduring feature of the New Zealand landscape.”

The proposal to name the mountain was submitted by two surviving members of the Guardians of Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau. They noted Mr Kirk’s support for the preservation of the natural levels of Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau and the establishment of the Guardians of Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau in 1973.

The Save Manapouri campaign emerged in the late 1960s in response to plans to raise the levels of Lakes Manapouri and Te Anau to support hydroelectric generation. Following the 1972 general election, Mr Kirk honoured a commitment to preserve the natural levels of the lakes and established the Guardians to provide independent oversight of their management.

The mountain is located on the western side of Percy Saddle, south of the West Arm of Lake Manapouri in Fiordland National Park and is now officially known as Mount Kirk.

New Zealand Gazetteer entry: https://gazetteer.linz.govt.nz/place/62011

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/fiordland-mountain-officially-named-mount-kirk/

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand and Viet Nam have strengthened their commitment to education cooperation and deepening connections between tertiary education institutions, says Minister for Tertiary Education Penny Simmonds.

“I was delighted to have the opportunity to announce the renewed bilateral Education Cooperation Arrangement with my Vietnamese counterpart Minister of Education and Training, Mr Hoàng Minh Sơn, and reaffirm our shared commitment to deepening education ties in the presence of Prime Minister Luxon and General Secretary and President Tô Lâm.

Education remains a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship and is a priority commitment in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” says Minister Simmonds.

“I was deeply honoured to give remarks at the Viet Nam-New Zealand Higher Education and Skills Forum, in the presence of the His Excellency Tô Lâm, Minister Sơn and leaders of education agencies and tertiary education institutions from both of our countries.”

“Our mutual interest in ensuring learners gain the skills they need for successful careers, strengthening links between education and employment, supporting innovation and research, and deepening collaboration between education providers, employers and communities was evident throughout the forum. There is much we can learn from each other.”

“Institutional engagement is a critical pillar in our bilateral education relationship. It strengthens opportunities for student and academic mobility and exchange, and there is strong potential for growth. During the forum it was very encouraging to witness a number of new Memorandums of Understanding signed between New Zealand institutions and their counterparts in Viet Nam”, says Minister Simmonds.

These engagements support the Government’s Tertiary Education Strategy priorities for International Education – boosting numbers of international students, supporting the sector to grow and increasing New Zealand’s international connectivity, as set out in the International Education Going for Growth Plan.

In the 2025 calendar year, there were 2,200 enrolled students from Viet Nam in New Zealand. This was an increase of 14% from 2024. In the year ended March 2026, New Zealand’s education-related travel exports to Viet Nam reached $110.95 million, up from $106.78 million in the previous year. 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/new-zealand-and-viet-nam-deepen-education-connections/

Source: New Zealand Government

Hawke’s Bay business owners will get more hands-on help to plan, grow and make good decisions, with the Government funding an additional Growth Advisor at the Hawke’s Bay Chamber of Commerce through to June 2027, Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Cameron Brewer says.

“Cyclone Gabrielle was the worst weather event this region has faced. Most Hawke’s Bay businesses are back on their feet and getting on with it, but some are still carrying the cost, and they shouldn’t have to work through it on their own,” Mr Brewer says.

The Growth Advisor role sits within the Regional Business Partner Network and will work directly with local business owners on the practical questions that come up day to day, from planning for the year ahead to identifying opportunities and getting ready for growth.

“This is a practical bit of help. Someone local, who knows the region and knows what these businesses have been through, sitting down with owners and working through what comes next,” Mr Brewer says.

“Good on Karla Lee and the Chamber for securing this extra support for Hawke’s Bay. The aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle continues to affect many local businesses, so I am pleased to deliver it. Thanks also to local MPs Katie Nimon and Catherine Wedd for their ongoing advocacy.

“Business owners are flat out running their businesses. Having someone they can call, who knows the local landscape and can point them to the right support, makes a real difference to the decisions they make.”

The role adds to the advisory services already available to businesses in the region through the Regional Business Partner Network.

“Hawke’s Bay is a productive part of the country with a strong food and fibre base, a growing export story and a lot of ambition. Backing the businesses that drive that is worth doing,” Mr Brewer says.

“Small businesses are the engine room of the Hawke’s Bay economy. This is about fixing the basics and building the future, making sure owners can get good advice when they need it so they can grow and succeed,” Mr Brewer says

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/government-backs-hawkes-bay-businesses-with-targeted-recovery-support/

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has launched a new $1.5 million grant to help Kiwi poultry operators prepare for the possible arrival of H5 high pathogenicity avian influenza (H5 bird flu) in commercial poultry farms, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says.

“The Government is supporting Kiwi poultry operators to strengthen their preparedness for H5 bird flu, helping protect jobs, livelihoods and New Zealand’s domestic food supply.”

That’s why we’ve launched the Poultry Biosecurity Grant to help small-medium sized poultry producers make practical improvements to protect their flocks.”

Grant funding will reimburse producers up to 50 percent of costs, to a maximum of $25,000, to support improvements that reduce the risk of disease introduction and spread, including infrastructure, access controls, bird-proofing measures, and cleaning and disinfection facilities.

“The new grant was developed in partnership with industry and builds on the significant preparedness work already underway.”

The grant will enable small to medium-sized poultry operators with less than 100,000 birds to get ahead of the new biosecurity regulations announced by the Government in July.

The regulations will come into force by the end of 2026 to help lift on-farm readiness and give operators the best possible chance to protect their flocks and businesses.

‘Poultry operators can also use up to $3,000 of the Grant funding if they need help developing the biosecurity plans required under the regulations.” 

New Zealand has recorded two confirmed detections of H5 bird flu, with no further detections since 17 July 2026. There is no evidence of mass mortality in wildlife, and no detections in poultry.

“H5 bird flu has spread widely overseas and continues to pose a significant risk to New Zealand’s poultry sector, food production systems, and wider economy

Strong on-farm biosecurity is one of our best defences against H5 bird flu, and we are fully committed to backing the efforts of Kiwi poultry operators,” says Mr Hoggard

Applications for the Poultry Biosecurity Grant are open now until 30 September 2026.

Further information, including grant guidance and application materials, is available here. 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/new-grant-for-poultry-industry-launches/

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government’s initiative to clamp or seize cars from people not paying court 

fines is shifting into overdrive with a nationwide operation taking place tomorrow, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“Tomorrow every bailiff in the country will spend the day scanning number plates of parked cars to identify who has overdue court fines and reparations. If people cannot make arrangements, their car may be clamped or towed away to be sold. 

“Our government is committed to fixing the basics in law and order, and ensuring fines and reparations are paid and taken seriously is a prime example. 

“We began trialling this technology in July last year, and it has demonstrated its success. As of August 14, this has returned a total of $4,241,867 in fines and reparations.

“The message to those who owe money is simple – pay your court fines, or you may be walking home.”

In July last year bailiffs began trialling handheld devices to scan number plates of parked cars and those stopping at some breath testing stations. 

So far, bailiffs have scanned 268,829 number plates and identified 7,148 people with overdue court fines or reparations. Of those, 1,320 people paid on the spot, with a further 561 establishing a payment arrangement. 404 people had their vehicle seized, and 683 had their vehicle clamped.

184 of the vehicles have already been sold at auction, with another 32 soon to go under the hammer. The rest were either issued a warning, or no action was taken due to their situation.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/court-fines-clampdown-shifts-into-overdrive/

MIL OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

The countdown is officially on for New Zealand’s first-ever State of Origin match, with the historic fixture now confirmed as Game Two, 16 June 2027 at Auckland’s Eden Park.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says it’s a massive milestone, with the match expected to deliver an estimated $17.4 million economic boost and attract more than 10,000 Australian visitors.

“Securing one of the fiercest rivalries in world sport presents a significant opportunity to welcome international visitors, boost tourism and demonstrate Kiwi hospitality on a global stage,” Louise Upston says. 

“We’re excited to welcome Blues and Maroons fans from across Australia and give local league supporters the chance to witness this iconic rivalry firsthand. This is a huge win for fans, tourism and New Zealand sport.”

The State of Origin 2027 fixture is proudly supported by the Government’s Major Events Fund and Auckland Council Events, through Tātaki Auckland Unlimited. Kiwi fans can pre-register now for tickets, which go on sale in November.

The State of Origin announcement comes as recently released results from other events supported by the Major Events Fund continue to demonstrate the value of investing in world-class events.

NRL All Stars was held in Hamilton in February, attracting more than 10,680 domestic and international visitors to the region, generating over 7000 visitor nights. The event also welcomed more than 18,000 fans through the gates.

“These results highlight the strong appeal of NRL events in New Zealand and the value of our ongoing partnerships in bringing world-class rugby league experiences to Kiwi fans. 

“The New Zealand Open recently celebrated the success of its 2026 tournament, also highlighting its positive contribution to the economy and ability to promote New Zealand to international audiences at a time when golf is enjoying a heightened global profile.

“I’m thrilled the New Zealand Open continues to deliver, providing a valuable boost to local economies while reaching millions of viewers around the world. Events like this showcase our spectacular landscapes, premium visitor experiences and world-class golf courses to potential visitors.”

Meanwhile, the inaugural Supercars Double Header has also proven a major success, generating significant economic benefits for both Taupō and Christchurch.

“The fact that approximately 3000 international visitors travelled to New Zealand to experience the racing, while also spending time in other parts of the country, demonstrates the wider value major events can deliver. 

“Events like State of Origin, Supercars and the New Zealand Open strengthen New Zealand’s reputation as a world-class events destination while delivering real benefits for local businesses, communities and the wider economy.

“The Government’s Major Events Fund continues to support a strong pipeline of events which attract visitors, drive economic growth and showcase New Zealand to the world,” Louise Upston says. 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/state-of-origin-2027-date-confirmed-as-major-events-momentum-continues/

Source: New Zealand Government

People in need of a better crisis response will have faster access to support with new peer-led beds being opened in Auckland and the lower South Island, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“People in crisis need more options for where they can get help, and for some people, hospital is not the right place. Peer-led acute alternative beds give people a safe, supportive place in the community where they can get support from people with their own lived experience,” Mr Doocey says.

“We know places like this can make a big difference for people. They can get support in a home-like environment, stay connected to their families, friends and community, and focus on their recovery. 

“The importance of these new beds is simple. People in crisis shouldn’t be waiting too long for an inpatient bed. Peer-led acute alternative services provide more choice for people experiencing mental health issues, and get people seen quicker.

“That is why we are almost doubling the number of peer-led acute alternative beds in New Zealand, going from 25 to 45.” 

The additional 20 beds are part of the Government’s $61.6 million investment to deliver a better mental health crisis response, which also includes 40 additional frontline staff for Crisis Assessment and Treatment Teams, more peer support workers in emergency departments and new Crisis Recovery Cafés. 

The Northern Region service will be delivered by Pathways and provide 12 new beds in Central Auckland. It is expected to be open in December this year. 

“Pathways is a well-trusted community organisation with more than 35 years’ experience delivering community mental health and addiction services throughout New Zealand, including peer support. 

“Their experience means they are well placed to deliver these new beds and have longstanding existing relationships to work alongside local mental health teams.” 

The eight South Island beds will be delivered through a collaboration between Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu Charitable Trust, providing six beds in Invercargill, and Uruuruwhenua Hauora, providing two beds in Alexandra. Services are expected to open in November.

“Both organisations have deep roots in their communities, with Ngā Kete Mātauranga Pounamu serving Southern communities for more than 25 years and Uruuruwhenua Hauora supporting Central Otago for more than 20 years. Their collaboration is a great example of community organisations working together to make a difference for people experiencing mental health and addiction challenges.

“We have seen higher demand in Auckland, so we are putting more beds into the Northern Region than originally planned. At the same time, we are delivering the number of beds needed in the South Island, ensuring they have greater access to the peer-led support they need.

“We are building the future and fixing the basics by creating a better crisis response so New Zealanders get the support they need and deserve, no matter where they are.” 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/18/new-peer-led-beds-for-a-better-crisis-response/