AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for August 2, 2026 – Full Text
1. New Drury and Paerātā stations open for South Auckland
August 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The new Drury and Paerātā railway stations have been formally opened today, with services beginning tomorrow and weekday peak trains running every 10 minutes, Rail Minister Winston Peters and Transport Minister Chris Bishop say.
The stations will serve Drury, Paerātā, Franklin and South Auckland, with each station providing two platforms, 350 car parks and bus connections.
“Around 130,000 more people are expected in this part of Auckland over coming decades, and infrastructure must come before growth – not years afterwards, as too often happens in this country,” Mr Peters says.
“These stations are here because we funded them when last responsible for rail, as part of our wider commitments to unlock capacity, lift train frequencies, invest more than $500 million to get the network up to standard, and enable electric trains from Britomart right down to Pukekohe.
“While others say nice words about rail, we fund it, deliver it, and on this happy occasion are still here to open it.
“We will keep advocating for rail because taxpayers have built an asset with real potential to move people and goods efficiently – and we intend to make full use of it.”
Mr Bishop says the stations are part of the Government’s recent investment in Auckland’s rail network and will support growth in the south.
“These stations are among the final elements of a recent $2.4 billion dollar Government investment in Auckland’s rail network,” Mr Bishop says.
“The Auckland Rail Network Rebuild has been completed in time for the City Rail Link (CRL) to open soon. We’re also replacing level crossings across the network to support more frequent train services.
“The Third Main Line is now open, separating freight and passenger rail services, while the rail line to Pukekohe has been electrified. Looking ahead, new rail stations at Ngākōroa are also set to open in 2027.
“This is about investing in infrastructure that will help allow our largest city to grow.
“Our investment is delivering convenient and reliable trains, to help improve productivity, and new infrastructure out here in southern Auckland to enable housing and business growth.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/01/new-drury-and-paerata-stations-open-for-south-auckland/
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2. Skin cancer treatment expanding into GP clinics
August 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
New Zealanders will be able to have suspicious skin spots and moles checked and removed at a local GP clinic, the first stage of a $23 million investment in community healthcare, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
“New Zealand has among the highest rates of melanoma in the world. Skin cancer is our most common cancer, and it is one of the most treatable, but only if it is caught early,” Mr Brown says.
“For too many New Zealanders, what happens after a suspected skin cancer is spotted depends on where they live. In some parts of the country there are excellent community skin cancer services. In others, the only options are a long hospital wait or paying to go private.”
The $23 million investment will move more care out of hospitals and into local GP clinics and community services, starting with the removal and treatment of suspicious skin spots and moles. Over time, it will also include cataract follow-up with optometrists, symptomatic bowel cancer detection, and respiratory care.
“This first stage will build on the skin cancer services that already work well across the country, creating a nationally consistent approach to how this care is delivered.
“A key part of this is funding GPs to upskill, so more clinics can offer this care. That includes training in dermoscopy, which uses a specialised magnifier to examine suspicious spots closely, and skin excision, so those spots can be removed on site rather than in hospital.”
It builds on the $5 million the Government invested last year to enhance general primary care services, which has enabled the expansion of treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding and minor gynaecological procedures into participating GP clinics in every region of the country.
“When skin cancer is caught and treated early, outcomes are significantly better for patients. This initiative means more New Zealanders will be able to have suspicious spots checked and removed sooner, without waiting for a hospital appointment or paying to go private.
“It also means better use of our hospital specialists, who will be able to focus on the more complex cases that require hospital-level care, helping to bring down waiting times for those patients.
“We are focused on fixing the basics and building the future. Delivering more care in the community, closer to where people live, is a key part of that,” Mr Brown says.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/01/skin-cancer-treatment-expanding-into-gp-clinics/
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3. Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony Successfully Held
July 31, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
Bringing Together Leaders from Politics, Business, and Academia to Advance Sustainable Development
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2026 – The “Youth Sustainable Development International Summit Launch Ceremony,” organised by Mytheast Youth Club, was held on 31 July 2026 in Hong Kong. The event brought together the Consuls-General and representatives of Zimbabwe and Nigeria, several Legislative Council members, the Deputy Head of the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit, and leaders and elites from a wide range of sectors — including politics, property development, aviation, banking, trade and commerce, tourism, finance, innovation and technology, healthcare, law and education. Together, they explored how Hong Kong can effectively implement the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and showcased the achievements of Hong Kong youth in international affairs.
UN Programme Nurtures Young Talent for National Development
In his welcoming speech, Mr. Lam Chi Wing, Hong Kong Deputy to the National People’s Congress and Chairman of Mytheast Youth Club, highlighted that Mytheast Youth Club has long been dedicated to youth development. With the support of the Hong Kong SAR Government, Mytheast Youth Club has organised numerous youth programmes and partnered with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and GBAMUN to deliver the United Nations Youth Development Programme (UNYDP), which provides young people with immersive training at the UN European Headquarters in Geneva, equipping them with international perspectives and diplomatic skills. The Launch Ceremony serves as a follow-up initiative to the UNYDP, enabling participants to transform their UN learning into tangible contributions to society and to offer policy recommendations for the development of Hong Kong and the nation. He reaffirmed that Mytheast Youth Club will continue to support youth development and contribute Chinese wisdom and solutions to global sustainable development.
International Perspective I: Zimbabwe’s Experience in Sustainable Development
H.E. Mr. Ellias Mutamba, Consul General of Zimbabwe in Hong Kong, shared his country’s valuable experiences in sustainable agriculture and community-based natural resource management. He noted that Zimbabwe faces challenges including land degradation, climate change, and recurring droughts. Through initiatives such as the “Pfumvudza/Intwasa” climate-smart agriculture programme, the promotion of drought-tolerant traditional grains, improved water management, and integrated farming systems, Zimbabwe has successfully enhanced agricultural productivity and ensured food security. He emphasised that sustainability is not a cost but an investment — it creates jobs, ensures food security, attracts responsible investment, and protects the ecosystems we all depend on. He welcomed Hong Kong enterprises to explore partnerships with Zimbabwe in climate-smart agriculture, food processing, renewable energy, and eco-tourism.
International Perspective II: Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Practices
Mrs. Millicent U. Onuoha, Consul (Head of Chancery / Education) of the Consulate General of Nigeria in Hong Kong, delivered a speech on behalf of the Consul General, sharing Nigeria’s practical experiences in advancing sustainable development. She noted that Nigeria, with its vast natural resources and diverse ecosystems, has long recognised the urgency of balancing development with environmental stewardship. In sustainable agriculture, Nigeria has invested in climate-smart farming practices, promoting drought-resistant crops, efficient irrigation systems, and agroforestry initiatives that not only secure food supplies but also restore degraded lands and strengthen resilience against climate shocks. In renewable energy, Nigeria has embarked on ambitious projects to expand solar and wind power, particularly in underserved regions. Its “Solar Power Naija” initiative aims to deliver clean electricity to millions of households, reducing reliance on fossil fuels while creating green jobs for youth. She emphasised that sustainable development is not a distant aspiration, but a practical pathway to prosperity, and encouraged Hong Kong youth to embrace innovation and collaboration in building a sustainable, inclusive, and just future.
Youth Participants Share: From UN Learning to Local Action
Mr. Mac Mai, Academic Director of GBAMUN, recalled his experience of participating in his first Model United Nations conference at the age of twelve, noting that this formative experience inspired his lifelong dedication to youth international education. He also introduced UNYDP, a strategic initiative jointly launched by GBAMUN and UNITAR. The UNYDP is one of the few youth training programmes worldwide that grants young people direct access to core United Nations resources. He remarked, “If visiting global institutions opens the door to the world of multilateralism, our expert training gives young people the keys to walk through it with confidence.” He emphasised that through the UNYDP, GBAMUN hopes to light the path for young to step onto the international stage and cooperate with global partners to jointly build a more peaceful and inclusive world.
Several UNYDP participants from diverse professional backgrounds shared their learning outcomes and future action plans at the event.
Delegate Chu Wai Lun detailed how he integrates his United Nations training into Hong Kong True Light College, an institution long dedicated to forward-looking holistic education that expands students’ global horizons and instils social responsibility. As the Biology Panel Head of the school, he leads initiatives centered on experiential learning, the conservation of endangered Chinese species, and citizen science programs—translating abstract global conservation challenges into concrete action that elevates traditional science education. “Education is not merely about imparting knowledge,” He emphasized. “It is about cultivating empathy, evidence-based thinking, and the agency to change the world.” By grounding grand global visions into everyday student actions, he aims to equip the next generation with the awareness and capability to safeguard our planet.
Ms. Pang Hing Man Mecissa has long been working on the frontlines of youth mental health services, having encountered many young people who have suffered from hidden bullying or sexual violence. She hopes that society can build a consensus and that people from all walks of life can become attentive companions, bringing the UN’s inclusive values back to Hong Kong and illuminating every forgotten corner with empathy and kindness.
Mr. Ng Siu Yuen shared his profound understanding of the interconnectedness of the SDGs. He drew on the “Imacocollabo” simulation game at the UN and Geneva’s experience in low-carbon living and waste sorting to call for stronger public education and social consensus in Hong Kong to drive sustainable development.
Ms. Yau Ho Laam summarised the UNYDP in Geneva. Her team presented the “H.E.A.L.” initiative — which stands for Healing, Education, Arts, and Livelihood — aimed at supporting female refugees and victims of domestic violence through online courses, art therapy, and craft creation.
Ms. Wan Man Yan, Silver and Ms. Xiao Ting shared their visions on animal conservation and youth development, respectively. Ms. Wan called for education to change societal values towards life at the source, promoting a society of human-animal coexistence. Ms. Xiao, meanwhile, emphasised the importance of youth development and the need to empower young people to influence their peers in driving mental health awareness and social participation.
Looking Ahead: Building Bridges for International Cooperation
The Launch Ceremony marks the official commencement of a series of youth sustainable development forums. Future forums will bring together representatives from enterprises, organisations, and young people across different regions and industries to share their efforts and contributions to sustainable development. The event has fully demonstrated the pathway for Hong Kong youth to actively participate in international affairs as Chinese citizens.
Mytheast Youth Club reaffirmed its commitment to deepening exchanges and collaboration with UNITAR and other partners to promote global sustainable development and youth empowerment, ensuring that the voice of Hong Kong youth is heard on the international stage.
Hashtag: #MytheastYouthClub
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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4. Call to action: Hunter-led conservation for the win
August 1, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager has issued a call to action to Kiwis, encouraging people to get behind the mission to control wild goat numbers and help protect New Zealand’s landscapes.
It comes as this year’s National Wild Goat Hunting Competition begins, which has resulted in the removal of more than 33,000 wild goats since its launch in 2023.
Mr Meager says the competition is a great opportunity for both aspiring and experienced hunters to head into the outdoors and continue to do their part for conservation.
“When not managed properly, wild goats do serious damage to our native bush, farms and forestry. This competition exemplifies the power of hunter-led conservation efforts. It highlights practical and collaborative ways the community can help manage numbers,” Mr Meager says.
“Entrants take part by submitting the tails of wild goats they have safely and humanely shot through official entry locations. Each tail puts you in the draw to win more than $60,000 worth of prizes, generously donated from sponsors within the hunting sector.
“Last year, 863 people participated, including 211 hunters under 18-years-old. Wild goats act as an excellent introductory species for the next generation of hunters who are interested in conservation outcomes, and I hope to see numbers grow further this year.
“I have already done my part, joining an early-morning hunt in the back blocks of Wellington, before a Parliamentary sitting day, where I bagged three goat tails.
“The competition has quickly become a key event in the sector’s annual calendar, and I want the momentum to continue. We know it influences hunter behaviour, with 75 percent of previous entrants saying they are more likely to hunt wild goats because of the event.
“This highlights the power hunters, landowners and agencies partnering together can have in protecting our environment and encouraging more Kiwis into the outdoors.”
The competition runs from 1 August to 26 November 2026, with entries open now.
Notes to editor:
- The competition is run in partnership between the Department of Conservation and the New Zealand Deerstalkers Association, along with crucial support from businesses and sponsors.
- Landowners can also take part by registering their interest to support permitted, responsible hunting on their land, without needing to hunt themselves.
- Further information on the National Wild Goat Hunting Competition can be found here: National Wild Goat Hunting Competition
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/08/01/call-to-action-hunter-led-conservation-for-the-win/
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5. Deputy Chair appointed to Reserve Bank Board
July 30, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Finance Minister Nicola Willis today announced the appointment of Byron Pepper as Deputy Chair of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand Board.
“Byron Pepper has made a significant contribution to the Reserve Bank Board since his appointment in 2022, and I am pleased to appoint him as Deputy Chair,” Nicola Willis says.
“Mr Pepper’s extensive experience in global financial markets, combined with his proven leadership, governance expertise and deep understanding of the Board’s operations make him well-suited to the role.
“He brings more than 25 years’ experience in investment banking and financial services, including 22 years at Goldman Sachs, with expertise spanning financial markets, insurance, corporate strategy and financial systems.
“As Chair of the Reserve Bank’s Financial Policy Committee, Mr Pepper has played a key role in the Bank’s financial policy decision-making and oversight of financial stability. His appointment as Deputy Chair reflects the valuable contribution he has made to the Board.
“Mr Pepper’s appointment continues the Government’s programme of strengthening the Reserve Bank’s governance, ensuring the Board has experienced leadership to continue driving greater accountability, transparency and focus on its statutory responsibilities.”
Having served on the Reserve Bank Board since 2022, Mr Pepper was reappointed for a second term commencing on 1 July 2025.
His appointment as Deputy Chair follows Rodger Finlay’s appointment as Chair of the Reserve Bank Board in December 2025, which left the Deputy Chair position vacant.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/30/deputy-chair-appointed-to-reserve-bank-board/
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6. Hon Paul Davison KC KSO appointed independent Redress Officer
July 31, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Hon Paul Davison KC KSO has been appointed Independent Redress Officer for a five-year term from 1 August 2026, Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford announced today.
Established under the Redress System for Abuse in Care Act 2026, the Independent Redress Officer will determine financial redress applications from survivors of abuse in State care who are also serious offenders. The role will also consider exemption applications from survivors with an advanced terminal illness.
Hon Davison is a former High Court judge with extensive experience across civil, criminal, regulatory, family, trust, and professional disciplinary matters. He has also appeared as counsel before several commissions of inquiry, including the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Air New Zealand DC-10 accident at Mt Erebus in Antarctica, and served as Counsel Assisting the Commission of Inquiry into Oakley Hospital.
As independent arbiter of the individualised pathway for survivors tortured at the Lake Alice Child and Adolescent Unit, Hon Davison developed a framework for determining redress for 37 survivors and carried out his duties with care and compassion.
“This role will require the same attributes and provides an important independent mechanism for considering redress for survivors who are also serious offenders. I would like to thank Hon Davison for his willingness to undertake this important role,” Erica Stanford says.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/31/hon-paul-davison-kc-kso-appointed-independent-redress-officer/
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7. Lanson Place Parliament Gardens In Melbourne Named ‘Best New Hotel’ At 2026 Global Hotel Alliance Awards
July 31, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2026 –Lanson Place Parliament Gardens in Melbourne has been named as the Best New Hotel at the 2026 Global Hotel Alliance (GHA) awards, the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands and operator of the award-winning GHA DISCOVERY loyalty programme. The prestigious recognition highlights the property’s stellar performance and rapid growth since opening in late 2024, underscoring its success in offering guests personalised, attentive service.
Lanson Place Parliament Gardens recognised for the Best New Hotel at the 2026 GHA Awards (Photo Credit: Lanson Place)
“We are incredibly proud that Lanson Place Parliament Gardens has been recognised as the Best New Hotel at the 2026 GHA Awards,” said Michael Hobson, Chief Executive Officer of Lanson Place. “This recognition is a wonderful validation of the vision behind every Lanson Place property, namely to offer comfortable, private sanctuaries with a relaxed but unmatched tradition of service.
Being part of the GHA has allowed us to share that vision with an even wider community of travellers, while also giving our own guests access to the valuable benefits of DISCOVERY membership. Being named Best New Hotel is also particularly meaningful as we joined the GHA less than a year ago. This award belongs to every member of our team and marks a strong signal of what lies ahead for Lanson Place.”
Marcus Packham, General Manager of Lanson Place Parliament Gardens, added: “This thrilling accolade serves as an endorsement of the passion and dedication of all our team members who go above and beyond, day in and day out, to create a true home away from home for every guest in the heart of Melbourne. We look forward to welcoming new guests from around the world so they can experience for themselves what distinguishes us.”
The awards recognised outstanding achievements across GHA’s portfolio of 1,000 hotels spanning 55 brands in 100 countries. The accolades celebrate excellence in performance, guest engagement and satisfaction, technology, sustainability, loyalty and collaboration across the alliance.
Lanson Place DISCOVERY Limited Time Offer
To coincide with this achievement, Lanson Place DISCOVERY members can currently enjoy triple DISCOVERY Dollars (D$) when staying at Lanson Place properties in Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila and Melbourne, from now until 31 August 2026, making every stay even more rewarding.
Terms and conditions may apply. For more information on the special offer, visit: https://lansonplace.com/loyalty
https://www.lansonplace.com/
https://www.facebook.com/lansonplace/
https://www.instagram.com/lansonplace/
Hashtag: #LansonPlace #BestNewHotel #GHAAwards
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.
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8. Contract signed for Scott Base redevelopment
July 30, 2026
Source: Antarctica New Zealand
30 July 2026
The Scott Base redevelopment has entered its delivery phase following the signing of the main construction contract with Wellington-headquartered construction firm LT McGuinness.
The milestone follows a comprehensive reset of the programme after the previous redevelopment proposal was paused because it could not be delivered within the Government’s approved funding.
Cabinet approved the reset redevelopment programme Detailed Business Case in May 2026 and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance authorised the project to proceed into delivery earlier in July.
Antarctica New Zealand chair Leon Grice said today’s announcement represented far more than the execution of a construction contract.
“Our continuous presence and scientific programme in Antarctica are fundamental to New Zealand’s interests. Approval to Deliver and the construction contract marks the successful completion of the reset of a major public infrastructure project. And it begins the next generation in the Scott Base legacy.”
The Scott Base redevelopment will deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose Antarctic research station, including new accommodation and communal facilities, upgraded science and operational spaces, and critical infrastructure improvements.
Capacity will increase from the current 5,000m2 to approx. 6,500m2, including a new Base Services Building (over 3,000m2); refurbishment of the Hillary Field Centre (an additional 400m2); replacement of ageing infrastructure (water, wastewater and power); with an enclosed elevated link connecting new and existing facilities.
The redevelopment also includes a major wind farm upgrade and battery storage system, significantly increasing renewable energy generation, resilience and grid stability for both Scott Base and neighbouring McMurdo Station.
Mr Grice said the Board deliberately chose to pause the previous redevelopment when it became clear it could not be delivered within the approved budget.
“We took difficult decisions to pause the project, commission an independent review and fundamentally rethink the redevelopment. Those decisions have delivered a project that is affordable, deliverable and still achieves the objectives Government originally set for the redevelopment.
“We haven’t compromised the original scope of requirements or functionality to get this project back under budget. The capacity and size of the new Base remain consistent with what was originally proposed.
“We have confidence we can deliver this programme because we have significant contingency allowances and we have done extensive quantity surveying work at every step and we have a close working partnership with LT McGuinness. We have not assumed that everything will go perfectly.
“Antarctica is one of the world’s most challenging construction environments. Weather, shipping, logistics and operating in a remote polar environment inevitably create uncertainty. Our programme accepts this reality, and we have prudential and tested project governance, and we have confidence the project can absorb unforeseen events without compromising our ability to deliver.
“Scientists, operational staff and support personnel will receive the modern facilities they need to live and work safely and effectively in Antarctica. What has changed is the way those facilities have been designed and how they will now be delivered.”
Mr Grice said one of the most enduring outcomes from the redesign was the development of a long-term masterplan for Scott Base.
Antarctica New Zealand Chief Executive Jordy Hendrikx said the past 18 months of planning and design had significantly strengthened the redevelopment programme.
“We have now completed planning, design and procurement. We have confidence in the design, confidence in the commercial arrangements and confidence that the project is ready to move into delivery, while remaining within the Government’s approved funding envelope.”
Professor Hendrikx said the redevelopment remained one of New Zealand’s most strategically important investments in science and infrastructure.
“Scott Base underpins New Zealand’s permanent presence in Antarctica, enables world-class science and supports our obligations under the Antarctic Treaty System. This redevelopment ensures New Zealand can continue to undertake internationally significant science from Scott Base while providing modern, resilient facilities capable of supporting Antarctic operations for decades to come.”
LT McGuinness Company Director Dan McGuinness said the collaborative delivery model established a year ago had been central to achieving that contractual success.
“The Early Contractor Engagement process enabled our team to work alongside Antarctica New Zealand on construction, logistics and engineering issues. Together we have developed a simpler, more buildable project with greater certainty around design, programme, logistics and cost. We are looking forward to successfully delivering Scott Base over the coming Antarctic seasons.”
Construction will proceed over successive Antarctic summer seasons, reflecting the unique logistics and approximately 100-day annual construction window available on Ross Island. The coming season will see drilling and completion of piles undertaken, along with shipment of materials needed for the 2027/28 season. Practical completion remains scheduled for 2030.
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9. Better crisis response for Auckland region
July 29, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today visited the Auckland Police Station to launch the region’s third mental health co-response team, which will help ensure people experiencing mental distress get the right support at the right time.
“It’s utterly unacceptable that when a concerned mum, dad, friend, or colleague calls 111 looking for a mental health response, they receive a criminal justice response. This Government is changing that because New Zealanders deserve better,” Mr Doocey says.
“The Auckland City team are undergoing training and will start responding to calls in early August. They will be based out of Central Auckland Police Station, operating four days a week, with operating hours to be tailored to the periods of highest local demand.
“The team is joining Counties Manukau and Waitematā and will ensure people across Auckland have a better crisis response.
“Counties Manukau has been operating out of Manukau Police Station since 26 May, from 8am to 4.30pm Tuesday to Friday, and has already supported more than 130 people.
“Both Auckland City and Counties were chosen in the first tranche of co-response teams because we know there is a high demand for crisis calls in the area.
“Early feedback from the region has been incredibly positive, with reports that people are receiving more appropriate support and that inappropriate referrals are being redirected away from the Emergency Department at Middlemore Hospital.
“This is exactly why we are rolling these teams out. The Wellington co-response evaluation found there was a reduction in the use of powers under the Mental Health Act, fewer people needed to go to an emergency department or police station, and the level of wraparound support increased. That’s what we are starting to see already with the new teams.
“These teams comprise of Police and mental health workers. While we know Police do an excellent job in our communities, the bottom line is they are not mental health professionals. That is why we are overhauling the way emergency services respond to 111 calls for people experiencing mental distress to move towards a more joined-up approach.
“The feedback from advocates was clear, having a uniformed Police officer turn up during times of mental health need can cause further distress. That’s why we are focusing on delivering a better crisis response for New Zealanders and taking action to ensure people are getting the response they deserve.”
Notes to editor:
- This is part of Budget 2025 investment of $28 million to roll out 10 mental health co-response teams across the country to respond to 111 mental distress calls and add additional crisis helpline capacity.
- Waitematā is not a part of the 10 teams, but has been up and running since 2023, funded out of baseline.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/29/better-crisis-response-for-auckland-region/
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10. BusinessNZ – New model highlights $1.3 trillion energy bill to 2050
July 31, 2026
Source: BusinessNZ
Meeting New Zealand’s energy needs to 2050 will cost approximately $1.3 trillion, according to the country’s latest and most comprehensive whole-of-energy-system model to date.
BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) Policy Advisor Ben Young says meeting New Zealand’s future energy demand will require stable, predictable and permissive policy settings that give businesses the confidence to make generational investment decisions.
“Whether we plan for it or not, new modelling indicates we will spend around $1.3 trillion meeting future energy demand as we power our homes, transport and the economy. The question is whether we can make informed decisions now to deliver a more secure, affordable and sustainable energy system for decades to come.”
TIMES-NZ 3.0, the latest energy model developed by BEC and the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), provides the most comprehensive picture yet of how New Zealand’s energy future could unfold.
Young says the model gives greater insight and clarity for business and government in decision making.
“The model considers the country’s entire energy system – from fuel supply and electricity generation through to energy use in homes, transport, industry and agriculture – and identifies the lowest-cost way of meeting future energy demand under different assumptions.”
Following extensive consultation, TIMES-NZ 3.0 tests four critical uncertainties: the future structure of the economy, the pace of global technology development, climate policy and consumer behaviour, and the ongoing role of gas.
These uncertainties underpin two contrasting but plausible scenarios put forward as part of TIMES-NZ 3.0; Steady and Shift. Instead of forecasts or prescribed pathways, they test decisions against futures that could require very different technologies, fuels, and infrastructure.
The “Steady” scenario represents a future with less structural change. Primary exports and conventional manufacturing remain central to the economy, clean technology costs fall more gradually, private vehicle travel continues to grow and imported LNG is available as domestic gas supply declines.
The “Shift” scenario explores a more electrified and structurally different economy. One where New Zealand becomes less reliant on traditional primary exports, clean technology costs fall faster, advanced manufacturing and data centres grow, and consumers and businesses invest more readily in energy efficiency.
The Steady scenario isn’t static, but the economy and the energy sector change less in this possible future. In the Shift scenario, the drivers of change across a range of inputs are stronger, resulting in greater and more rapid change in the energy sector.
BusinessNZ Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard says by testing distinct future pathways, TIMES-NZ gives government, businesses and investors a stronger basis for making decisions today while reserving options for tomorrow.
“The different scenarios highlight how decisions made in one part of the energy system can create costs and consequences elsewhere. TIMES-NZ 3.0 does not try to predict or prescribe a single pathway. It helps us understand how economic, technological and policy choices interact across the entire energy system.
“Thanks to all BEC members, EECA and government departments, stakeholders and advisors whose time and expertise have helped create this essential tool for New Zealand’s future.”
The updated TIMES-NZ model incorporates extensive input from industry, government and technical experts. The model and Insights Report are publicly available now.
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.
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