AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for July 26, 2026 – Full Text
1. New AI tool to help develop biosecurity standards
July 25, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is developing and testing a new AI tool to modernise the import health standard process while maintaining New Zealand’s world-class biosecurity protections, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard says.
“Import health standards set the biosecurity rules goods must meet before entering New Zealand. They manage risks from plant, animal, and biological products.”
“The way we develop these standards has not kept pace with modern trade and innovation. We are improving the system so it can move safely and faster, without compromising biosecurity.”
That work includes designing and testing a new tool that uses generative artificial intelligence.
“This is about using smart tools to take on document-heavy work, while key decisions remain with Biosecurity New Zealand experts.”
“The tool could free up staff time without cutting corners, with a four-month pilot underway to develop and trial the tool.”
“It will test whether the tool can help deliver high-quality, evidence-based standards more safely and consistently.”
The wider reform programme, including live plant import system reform, is expected to support farmers and growers over time by improving access to new plant genetics.
“This is part of the Government’s work to cut red tape and lift farmgate returns. Export revenue from the food and fibre sector is forecast to reach $64.3 billion in the year to 30 June 2026.”
“Once delivered, these reforms will mean smarter approvals for imported goods New Zealand businesses need, and fewer unnecessary restrictions on growth and productivity, without compromising biosecurity,” Mr Hoggard says.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/25/new-ai-tool-to-help-develop-biosecurity-standards/
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2. Grandstand finish at iconic Rugby Park
July 25, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Gisborne’s rugby community celebrated the completion of the John Heikell Grandstand at Rugby Park redevelopment today, marking the return of one of East Coast Tairāwhiti’s most iconic sporting venues and a significant achievement for the region.
Associate Regional Development Minister Mark Patterson joined Gisborne locals today to celebrate the reopening of the revitalised facility.
“Since opening in 1955, Rugby Park is one of New Zealand’s historic provincial rugby grounds. It has hosted legendary touring sides including the Springboks and the British & Irish Lions, and the ground has been graced by rugby icons such as Ian Kirkpatrick, Richard “Tiny” White and Bob Scott.” Mr Patterson says.
“Home of the Poverty Bay Rugby Union, it’s great to see the park restored as a premier facility for rugby and other sporting codes, and a place where locals can come together to celebrate major events.”
The original grandstand closed in 2019 after assessments found it was no longer safe to use, with significant seismic deficiencies and deteriorating building materials.
“With support from central government and local government partners, Rugby Park has been transformed into a modern, fit-for-purpose facility.
“The redevelopment includes a new 900-seat covered grandstand, upgraded player and media facilities, a modern scoreboard, and extensive improvements to the park’s grounds and infrastructure,” Mr Patterson says.
“It not only restores a treasured sporting venue but also strengthens the region’s ability to host major cultural and community events, attract visitors, and support local economic activity.”
The project received $11.3 million in grant funding from the government for the rebuild. Co-funding for the project was provided by Trust Tairāwhiti and the Lottery Grants Board. The total project value is $12.5 million.
“This investment helped support 26 local businesses during construction and kept money in the local economy, while building a facility that will serve Tairāwhiti for generations to come,” Mr Patterson says.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/25/grandstand-finish-at-iconic-rugby-park/
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3. Psychology Assistants hit the books
July 24, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Psychology Assistant students are training in New Zealand classrooms for the first time, marking a major milestone in growing the mental health workforce. The first graduates are set to enter the workforce next year, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.
“Today is a landmark moment. These students are the first to train for a brand-new role that will help more New Zealanders get faster access to mental health support, while creating a new career pathway for psychology graduates,” Mr Doocey says.
“We know that every year many psychology graduates miss out on the limited number of postgraduate training places. Without other pathways available, too many of these graduates are lost from the mental health workforce. This new role gives them a way to stay in mental health, use their skills, and support more New Zealanders who need help.
“It’s fantastic to be at the University of Canterbury today to meet the first cohort of students as they begin their training to become New Zealand’s first registered Psychology Assistants. Students are now also undertaking the programme at Auckland University of Technology.
“Working under the supervision of registered psychologists, Psychology Assistants will provide practical support to people with mental health and addiction needs by delivering low-intensity interventions, supporting assessments, monitoring progress and providing psychoeducation. This will allow psychologists to spend more time with people who have the most complex needs.
“Budget 2026 invested $28.45 million to establish the Psychology Assistant workforce, supporting employment, supervision and training as this new role is introduced across Health New Zealand and community mental health services.
“That investment will support up to 50 new Psychology Assistants entering the workforce each year, growing the frontline and helping more New Zealanders access support faster.
“This is just one part of our plan to grow the psychology workforce. We are also on track to almost double the number of clinical psychology internships, increasing from 40 in 2023 to 74 in 2026.
“I’ve been clear that doing nothing is not an option while New Zealanders are waiting too long for support. Psychology Assistants are not replacing psychologists; they are working alongside them to help more people access support.
“The role and its scope of practice have been approved by the New Zealand Psychologists Board, and I believe this role will make a real difference for many.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/24/psychology-assistants-hit-the-books/
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4. Guide to support staff experiencing stalking
July 23, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
A new guide to equip workplaces with tools to support employees who experience stalking has been launched by Minister for Women Nicola Grigg today.
“Stalking has a serious impact on the health, safety and wellbeing of victims, and research shows that stalking frequently extends into workplaces. How an employer responds to stalking can either reduce or compound harm being caused,” Ms Grigg says.
“Workplaces are a big part of people’s daily lives. We know that perpetrators can use workplaces to contact, monitor, follow or approach victims and this creates real risks for the person affected, and sometimes for the wider workplace.”
Recognise, Respond, Support: Practical workplace responses to stalking has been developed by the Ministry for Women in partnership with family violence specialist organisation Shine, in collaboration with Human Resources New Zealand.
“Stalking is harmful and unwanted behaviour that intrudes on victims’ lives. Anyone can be a victim of stalking, but women are disproportionately affected,” Ms Grigg says.
“This guide helps employers recognise stalking behaviours, respond to disclosures, manage safety risks and support staff to access specialist help.”
“In May, stalking and harassment became a criminal offence punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment under the Crimes Act. The law change and this guide work together – the law holds perpetrators to account and the guide helps workplaces protect and support those affected.”
“I encourage people in workplaces to read the guide, discuss it with their organisations, take action before issues arise and create safe environments where staff feel supported,” Ms Grigg says.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/23/guide-to-support-staff-experiencing-stalking/
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5. Advocacy – Israel buying Nauru embassy in Jerusalem – PSNA
July 25, 2026
25 July 2026
PSNA says the news this week of Nauru opening an embassy in Jerusalem is an alarming indication of Israel diplomatically consolidating its illegal occupation of Palestinian Territory and buying Pacific votes in the United Nations.
Israel and the government of Nauru have announced Nauru will open an embassy in Jerusalem, following an announcement in January that Samoa would locate its embassy there.
Papua New Guinea and Fiji have already established their embassies in Jerusalem, along with the US, Paraguay, Honduras, Guatemala and Kosovo.
All other countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, to avoid inferring approval of Israeli sovereignty claims over Jerusalem.
Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa spokesperson Rinad Tamimi says Israel is unashamedly using Pacific countries to undermine the international consensus that Israel’s claims over all of Jerusalem are legally not valid.
“That nearly half of the countries with embassies in Jerusalem are from the Pacific clearly shows the effort and dollars Israel is putting into the region.”
“Tuvalu, with a population of 12,000, has only five diplomatic posts in the entire world, and suddenly its government finds a need to have another one in Jerusalem.”
“The other concerning aspect is the Pacific votes in the United Nations. In 2024 there was a landmark vote in the United Nations to instruct Israel that it had 12 months to get out of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.”
“New Zealand voted in favour, along with 123 other countries. But seven Pacific nations voted against upholding this statement of international law. That was half of the 14 countries who voted against,” Tamimi says.
“Obviously we are in favour of Pacific countries being independent and making their own choices. But PSNA is speaking out to support indigenous groups in those countries who see Israel as a highly aggressive modern colonial venture which should not be permitted by their governments to manipulate the Pacific for its interests against international law.”
“New Zealand’s government is critical when it believes other countries are increasing their interests in the Pacific. It’s time Wellington made the same statements about Israel.”
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6. Youth voices help shape future-focused July Council meeting
July 23, 2026
Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council
Date: 23 Jul 2026
From setting strategic direction to voices of youth speaking on behalf of a generation, there was discussion aplenty at Canterbury Regional Council’s meeting on Wednesday 22 July.
The meeting opened with widespread acknowledgement of the passing of Kelvin Coe, former Mayor of Selwyn District Council, whose positive impact was clearly felt by all corners of the regional council table.
The meeting continued into its scheduled agenda, including the adoption of Our strategic direction Ā mātou aronga rautaki and a lengthy question and debate session about increased funding for a previously agreed-upon public transport trial through the Christchurch suburb of Aranui.
Public forum
Bronte and Joel, two young Christchurch residents, spoke on climate action and ways to make associated work more visible. They represented Next Generation and Conversation Lighthouse Aotearoa. Council agreed to receive their presentation and issue an appropriate response in due course.
Updated strategic direction
Council agreed to adopt an updated Strategic Direction to guide decision-making and development of the Long-Term Plan 2027-37.
Retaining Environment Canterbury’s vision, purpose and values, the Strategic Direction responds to a changing local government environment and establishes three priorities: efficient delivery of core statutory requirements, effective catchment-based management and stewardship ki uta ki tai (from the mountains to the sea), and coherent, accessible data and services that support readiness for reform.
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Approved additional funding for Aranui bus trial
Canterbury Regional Council (Environment Canterbury) has approved up to $120,000 of additional funding for the new Aranui trial bus service, bringing the total maximum spend up to $720,000.
Following community engagement on the destination and the subsequent confirmation of the route, the expected costs are forecast to be higher than initially budgeted.
Council also confirmed the trial success measures which will include, but not be limited to, patronage, cost recovery, subsidy per trip, and impact on its Private Revenue Ratio. Success thresholds for each measure will be considered at a future meeting.
The 12-month trial, expected to start in late August, will travel between New Brighton and The Palms Shopping Centre via Aranui each hour.
Local Government reform and other matters
Council agreed not to undertake a representation review ahead of the 2028 local elections, noting ongoing central government reform and the expectation that regional council elections will not be held in 2028 under the current reform programme.
Council also considered a range of governance matters, including several Local Government New Zealand remits covering transport funding to vape retailer regulation.
They also received an update on Canterbury’s Community Vehicle Trust network, which delivers trips each year for residents who might otherwise struggle to access essential services.
Council will meet again in full on Wednesday 26 August. View the full list of Council and committee meetings.
Council meeting recording: See the full discussions, presentations and decisions from the July 2026 Canterbury Regional Council meeting.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/23/youth-voices-help-shape-future-focused-july-council-meeting/
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7. Pacific Women’s Network Condemns Call to Revoke Dr Anna Naupa’s MSG Appointment
July 24, 2026
Source: Pacific Women’s Network Against Violence Against Women
24 July 2026
For immediate release
The Pacific Women’s Network Against Violence Against Women (PWNAVAW) has strongly condemned an “ultimatum” issued by the Malvatumauri National Council of Chiefs calling for the revocation of Dr Anna Naupa’s appointment as Director General of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG).
Network Chair and Coordinator of the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, Shamima Ali, described the move as a clear misogynistic attack on women’s leadership.
“Dr Anna Naupa’s appointment is path-breaking for women and girls in Vanuatu and across the region. It marks the first time that a ni-Vanuatu and a Pacific woman has been appointed to lead the MSG Secretariat,” Ali said.
She noted that Dr Naupa’s appointment represents a significant milestone for women’s leadership and participation in regional decision-making across Melanesia and the wider Pacific.
Ali also expressed the Network’s support for the statement issued by the Office of the Prime Minister of Vanuatu.
“Women’s leadership across the Pacific is not up for negotiation,” she stressed.
The Vanuatu Women’s Centre (VWC) has also denounced the call, describing it as a disgrace to the women and girls of Vanuatu.
VWC Coordinator Tatavola Matas said Dr Naupa is a highly qualified ni-Vanuatu woman whose leadership represents progress not only for Vanuatu but for the wider Melanesian region.
“To undermine her appointment is to undermine the recognition of women’s rightful place in decision-making at the highest levels,” Matas said.
“The Vanuatu Women’s Centre stands firmly against this attempt to silence and sideline women’s voices. We call for respect for due process, merit, and gender equality in regional leadership.”
VWC founding coordinator and prominent women’s rights advocate Merilyn Tahi echoed the Network’s concerns and called on traditional leaders to recognise and support women’s leadership.
Tahi noted that Vanuatu will mark its 46th anniversary of independence on 30 July and reflected on the important role women played in the country’s struggle for independence.
“Many women, from Hilda Lini to Grace Molisa, were part of the movement that helped secure our nation’s independence,” she said.
She said it is disappointing that, decades after independence, women’s leadership continues to be questioned despite their proven contributions to nation-building.
The Network said that honouring the legacy of Pacific women who fought for justice, freedom and independence requires ensuring that today’s women leaders are supported, respected and given every opportunity to succeed.
Background on the Pacific Women’s Network Against Violence Against Women (PWNAVAW)
In 1992, the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre (FWCC) facilitated and hosted the first Pacific Regional Meeting on Ending Violence Against Women in Suva, comprising women leaders from 15 Pacific Island countries. The inaugural meeting led to the establishment of the Pacific Women’s Network Against Violence Against Women (PWNAVAW).
Since its establishment, the PWNAVAW, recognised as the leading feminist collective on ending violence against women and girls in the region, has brought together decades of collective expertise, networks, and knowledge on women’s human rights in the region.
It has supported the efforts of Pacific governments, national, regional, and international CSO and NGO networks, and development partners to lift, build, and maintain the quality and standards for gender-based violence counselling services across the Pacific. This, in turn, is reflected in the emergence of many counselling centres and programmes in the Pacific region, including in Kiribati, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Collectively, since 1992, the Pacific Women’s Network Against Violence Against Women (PWNAVAW) has had a membership of government and non-government organisations in over 10 countries across the Pacific.
PWNAVAW, which is deeply rooted in the principles of feminism, women’s human rights, gender equality, and the elimination of all forms of discrimination and violence against women and girls, has also pioneered response and prevention approaches in engaging men.
The FWCC acts as the Secretariat for this Network and organises its conferences.
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8. Climate News – Aotearoa New Zealand’s rate of emissions reduction needs to more than double
July 22, 2026
Source: Climate Change Commission
- Aotearoa New Zealand’s emissions are gradually falling, but progress stalled in 2024.
- The pace of emissions reductions needs to more than double over the next few years; and to get on track for that, action is needed within the next 12-24 months.
- Risks to Aotearoa New Zealand’s climate goals for the next decade have increased. The second and third emissions budgets are at high risk, and the 2030 biogenic methane target is unlikely to be met.
- The report highlights practical opportunities to reduce emissions and manage future costs, including low-emissions technologies that are already cheaper over time in some households and businesses uses.
- The Government has low-cost options to reduce barriers that are preventing businesses and households from choosing low emissions technologies.
- Exec Summary – summary of our findings and recommendations, excerpted from the main report.
- One-page summary – overview of the 2026 key findings and recommendations
- Sector summaries – covering: energy, industry and buildings; transport; agriculture; waste and fluorinated gases; and forestry.
- Whakahekenga rehukino summary – covering key points for emissions reduction actions centred on iwi/Māori. Available in in te reo Māori and English.
- start determining how to incentivise further emissions reductions and removals in the 2030s given that the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme in its current form will struggle to do this.
- for the primary sector: immediately scale up support measures to meet the 2030 biogenic methane target; and reduce barriers for high-value, low-emissions agricultural products for long-term reductions and resilience
- expand resource recovery facilities, services and planning, and extend landfill gas capture requirements to class 2 landfills
- encourage electric vehicle uptake through strong supply- and demand-side measures, and support greater shifts to public and active transport
- address upfront cost barriers to fuel-switching for households and businesses.
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9. Pathway to monthly CPI in 2027 announced – Stats NZ news story
July 24, 2026
Source: Statistics New Zealand
Pathway to monthly CPI in 2027 announced – news story
23 July 2026
New Zealanders will have access to more frequent information about changing prices from 2027, helping households, businesses, and government make better-informed decisions.
Stats NZ today announced the pathway for introducing monthly consumers price index (CPI) information in 2027.
Government Statistician and Stats NZ Chief Executive Colin Lynch says moving from quarterly to monthly information will provide a more current view of price changes across the economy.
“The CPI is used to inform decisions that affect all New Zealanders, from interest rates and government policy to business planning, contracts, and household finances,” says Colin.
“Providing a monthly CPI from 2027 represents a major change to one of New Zealand’s most important economic measures, so it is essential this is done with quality and trust at its heart.”
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10. FinCap – Latest financial mentoring statistics reflect cost of living pressures and the need for increased and ongoing sustainable funding for financial mentors
July 23, 2026
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