AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for September 16, 2026 – Full Text
1. Health Sector – Left backs stronger prevention policies – Health Coalition
September 15, 2026
Source: Health Coalition Aotearoa
Parties on the political left show strongest backing for policies to reduce harm from tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy food.
Health Coalition Aotearoa is today releasing the results of its election policy survey (election policy survey), revealing a clear political divide on support for evidence-based measures to reduce harm from tobacco, alcohol and unhealthy food, and to protect public policymaking from undue industry influence.
The survey, which was sent to all incumbent political parties ahead of the election, assessed support for Health Coalition Aotearoa’s top prevention priorities.
The findings show strongest support from left-leaning parties for policies that would improve health outcomes, reduce pressure on the health system and boost productivity through prevention. Survey commentary is available in a PHCC Briefing (PHCC Briefing).
“Disappointingly, National and New Zealand First chose neither to complete the survey nor attend our Political Forum on Prevention, held at Parliament in August,” says Health Coalition Aotearoa co-chair Professor Boyd Swinburn, a population nutrition and global health researcher at the University of Auckland.
“This pattern of National, and often other Government Coalition partners, not fronting up to invitations to engage on key policy issues has been observed by multiple organisations seeking policy discussions on health in this pre-election period,” Swinburn says.
The survey was based on priorities identified by Health Coalition Aotearoa’s expert panels as the most evidence-based and cost-effective policies for preventing harm from the commercial determinants of health, as outlined in its Prevention Brief 2026 (Prevention Brief 2026).
“What we’re really looking for is areas of general support across the political spectrum so that effective prevention policies might get advanced and sustained, rather than flip-flopping with every election,” Swinburn says.
The policies receiving the widest support were reinstating the tobacco endgame legislation, restoring the Healthy School Lunches Programme to an optimum design, and strengthening protections against undue industry influence in public policymaking. Support was strongest among the Green Party, Te Pāti Māori and Labour.
The findings also showed broad support among those parties for stronger lobbying rules, improved management of conflicts of interest, and greater transparency in decision-making processes. ACT was the only right-leaning party to respond to the survey and was generally supportive of some tobacco and conflicts of interest measures but unsupportive of most other prevention policies.
Notably, National and New Zealand First did not respond to the survey, leaving voters without direct answers on their positions regarding these priority prevention measures.
Although not included in the survey, The Opportunity Party recently released its Healthy People and Clean Up Politics policies, which are closely aligned with Health Coalition Aotearoa’s priorities.
“Enacting policies is, let’s face it, a lot of work, so if we could see progress on tobacco endgame measures, healthy school lunches and lobbying reform under the next government, that would be fantastic,” says Swinburn.
HCA co-chair Jason Alexander says it is disappointing to see parties steering away from taxes and, to a lesser extent, alcohol law reform, including embedding Te Tiriti in legislation.
“Some parties are shying away from alcohol law reform and taxes on unhealthy commodities, which is disappointing given the substantial evidence of their potential to improve health outcomes and equity.”
Tobacco, alcohol, obesity and unhealthy diets cause about a quarter of healthy years of life lost to preventable death and disability (more than 350,000 disability-adjusted life-years lost every year), with these harms falling inequitably on Māori and Pacific people.
Swinburn says the findings are notable because public support for prevention policies is consistently high across areas such as tobacco control, alcohol harm reduction, healthier food environments and stronger protections against industry influence.
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2. Development contributions strengthened to recover Fast-track infrastructure costs
September 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government will change the Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill to ensure councils can set appropriate development contributions that reflect the growth-related infrastructure costs associated with Fast-track projects, Housing and Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts say.
“Fast-track is helping desperately needed housing, infrastructure, energy and investment projects move through the consenting system without being bogged down in unnecessary red tape,” Mr Bishop says.
“Fast-track approval does not give developers a free pass to build irrespective of infrastructure constraints. Expert panels can and already are imposing conditions requiring roads, water, wastewater and other infrastructure to be in place before development can proceed.
“The issue we are addressing is where existing development contributions do not adequately account for the development enabled through Fast-track, because they reflect what is anticipated in a district plan rather than the proposed use of the land.
“That can happen where a development proceeds sooner than anticipated in council infrastructure planning, brings forward the need for a major network upgrade, uses capacity that had been planned for growth elsewhere, or relies on infrastructure across council boundaries.
“Where a development creates additional infrastructure costs, an appropriate share should be met by the development rather than being shifted onto existing ratepayers.”
Last month, the Government announced it would amend the Local Government Act 2002 to give councils better tools to recover these costs. The changes will be progressed through an Amendment Paper at the Committee of the Whole House stage of the Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill, to be considered by Parliament this week.
“The changes will allow councils to amend their development contribution policies where necessary to recover eligible growth-related capital costs associated with a Fast-track development,” Mr Watts says.
“Importantly, councils will be able to make those targeted amendments without going through the usual consultation process, allowing them to respond quickly where an existing policy does not adequately reflect the infrastructure demands of a development.
“Any amendment will need to be adopted within six months of Fast-track approval, notified to the authorised person and published as soon as practicable.
“We are also addressing cross-boundary infrastructure costs. Where growth in one council area creates eligible infrastructure costs for another council, the collecting council will be able to recover those costs and transfer the appropriate share of the development contribution.
“Council boundaries should not prevent the fair recovery of infrastructure costs created by growth.”
“The new settings will apply to all Fast-track projects unless an applicant has received a draft decision to approve or decline the project when the legislation comes into force,” Mr Bishop says.
“They won’t apply to projects already approved.
“This creates a clear transition point and helps councils recover infrastructure costs from eligible projects while giving certainty to projects within the fast-track process.
“Fast-track has been a much-needed circuit breaker for projects that should be creating jobs, delivering homes and growing local economies. These changes maintain that certainty and effectiveness while making sure the infrastructure funding system can keep up.”
The changes are an interim step towards the Government’s wider overhaul of infrastructure funding through its Going for Housing Growth programme.
“Going for Housing Growth will help unlock more homes for New Zealanders by fixing the fundamentals of our housing market and making housing more affordable,” Mr Bishop says.
“The programme is focused on three practical changes: freeing up land for development, removing unnecessary planning barriers, improving how growth infrastructure is funded and financed, and giving councils and communities stronger incentives to support more housing.
“As part of this work, we are replacing development contributions with a more flexible Development Levies system, giving councils better tools to plan for and fund the infrastructure needed for growth. Further details on the design of the system will be released shortly.
“Development Levies are expected to be in place from 2029 and will support councils to respond more effectively to growth over the long term.
“In the meantime, councils need workable tools now. These changes ensure the existing development contributions system can work effectively alongside Fast-track.
“Fast-track is about enabling growth and investment. This is about making sure the infrastructure funding system keeps pace with that growth, while protecting ratepayers from costs they should not unfairly be expected to carry.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/15/development-contributions-strengthened-to-recover-fast-track-infrastructure-costs/
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3. Business wants economic growth locked in, tax settings held steady and infrastructure delivered, Election Survey finds
September 15, 2026
Source: BusinessNZ
New Zealand businesses want the next Government to keep the economy growing, hold a steady course on tax and finally deliver on long-promised infrastructure, according to the results of the Deloitte and Chapman Tripp Election Survey, released today by BusinessNZ at the Deloitte and Chapman Tripp Election Conference 2026.
The survey, now regarded as one of the country’s leading measures of business opinion, sets the views of BusinessNZ members alongside the policies of the parties contesting the election, across the issues that matter most to the economy: tax, regulation, infrastructure, energy, skills and the world of work.
Business NZ Chief executive Katherine Rich said the survey sent a clear message to the next Government about business priorities.
“This year’s survey tells us that, above all, business wants confidence that the economy will keep growing, certainty that tax settings won’t be pulled out from under them, and follow-through on the infrastructure plans that have been talked about for years.”
Key findings include a majority agreeing that New Zealand’s retirement settings need reviewing, with most support for raising the retirement age to 67, while there was overwhelming support for parties to agree on a long-term, bipartisan plan for infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the cost of energy loomed as a major concern.
Deloitte New Zealand Chief Executive Mike Horne said the results suggested businesses were looking beyond short-term challenges and focusing on the foundations of long-term growth.
“What stands out to me is that businesses are increasingly focused on what comes next. They want an environment that supports investment, productivity and growth, together with the certainty needed to plan for the future.
“The survey also highlights the importance of energy, infrastructure and international competitiveness. These are not separate conversations. New Zealand’s prosperity depends on our ability to produce more, connect more and compete more, and businesses are looking for the certainty and investment settings that help unlock those opportunities.
Economic environment and regulation
Asked to name the single most important issue for achieving sustained economic growth, 57.7% of respondents pointed to the economic environment itself, well ahead of infrastructure (16.5%) and skills and human capital (11.7%).
Views on the Government’s record were mixed: 58.1% believe the Government has a coordinated plan of action to raise economic performance, while 47.1% said regulatory changes over the past three years have increased the cost of doing business, against 41.7% who disagreed. Just over a third (39.1%) believe regulatory reforms have improved productivity and ease of doing business to some extent, while a similar proportion (32.8%) saw no material difference.
On tax, the clearest message from members is a preference for stability rather than change. A majority want no change to personal (61.8%) or corporate (57.6%) tax rates, and 65.3% oppose a wealth tax. Views on a capital gains tax are almost evenly split (46.0% yes, 45.7% no). An overwhelming 93.5% of respondents rate an internationally competitive tax system as important or very important.
On retirement settings, two-thirds (66.5%) support raising the age of superannuation entitlement – most commonly to 67 – and 89.1% support making KiwiSaver contributions compulsory for employers, employees and the self-employed, with the largest group (39.9%) favouring a combined contribution rate of 10%.
Sustainable investment and energy
Energy costs remain a significant concern for business, with 80.4% saying future energy prices are an issue they are worried about, and 61.3% believing the Government is not doing enough to reduce regulatory barriers to electricity supply.
A clear majority (63.3%) believe New Zealand needs to increase its investment in adapting to climate change and natural hazards, and of those, 64.5% think this should be funded by central government rather than local government or affected property owners.
Infrastructure
Business support for long-term, cross-party infrastructure planning is emphatic: 94.7% back a bipartisan 20-30 year approach to infrastructure planning and funding, and 82.8% support recycling central and local government assets, with proceeds directed to new infrastructure. Support for public-private partnerships in delivering major projects sits at 64.5%, with a further 31.7% saying it depends on the sector.
Skills, immigration and the future of work
Members want compulsory education to lift its game: 72.4% identified literacy and numeracy attainment as needing review, followed by raising the standard of secondary education (68.1%) and school attendance (58.4%).
On the future of work, 58.5% expect artificial intelligence and robotics to have a significant impact on the size and composition of their workforce over the next five to ten years, while just over half (53.5%) have confidence in getting the skills they need under current immigration settings.
Employment environment
A majority of respondents (57.4%) said they had experienced difficulty terminating an unsatisfactory employee’s employment, and 59.6% favour bargaining for collective employment agreements at the enterprise level over sectoral or national bargaining. Notably, 56.7% said they would be prepared to pay the living wage as a minimum in their business in the near future.
Mrs Rich said the conference had become an important fixture on the election year calendar.
“We are proud to release these results at the Deloitte and Chapman Tripp Election Conference, where the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition and spokespeople from across Parliament are putting their cases directly to the business community. The questions our members have raised deserve considered answers, and this is the forum in which to test them.”
“Our thanks go to our partners, Deloitte and Chapman Tripp, to the political parties for engaging so fully, and above all to the members who took the time to respond,” Mrs Rich said.
Important context for these results
The survey results needed to be read alongside some important caveats about this year’s sample.
- Lower response than previous years: the survey drew 423 responses, of which 279 were fully completed. BusinessNZ attributes the lower turnout to ongoing survey fatigue and the absence of some member groups this year. However, the depth and breadth of questions mean it remains one of the most useful barometers of business sentiment available.
- Skewed toward larger firms: the 2026 sample is more heavily weighted towards large businesses than in previous years, with over a quarter of respondents employing 500 or more staff.
- Small business and the self-employed under-represented: on some questions, this matters. For example, close to nine in ten respondents supported making KiwiSaver contributions compulsory, including for the self-employed – a group barely represented in this sample, and one that may well take a different view, given many regard their business as their long-term retirement savings.
- Not every respondent answered every question: results are reported as the ‘valid percent’ – the proportion of those who answered each individual question – rather than as a share of the full sample.
“While we don’t consider this has materially changed the overall findings, we think it’s important for voters, parties and media to see these results in that context, rather than treat them as a precise mirror of the whole business community,” Mrs Rich said.
Notes
- The Deloitte and Chapman Tripp Election Survey, conducted by BusinessNZ, comprises two related questionnaires: a member survey of BusinessNZ members, and a political party survey inviting the main parties contesting the election to set out their policies across five areas – the economic environment, sustainable investment, infrastructure, skills and human capital, and the employment environment.
- All percentages have been rounded to the nearest whole number and, as a result, may not sum to 100%.
- Compare the survey results with BusinessNZ’s election priorities here. (https://businessnz.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/BusinessNZ-Election-priorities-2026-report.pdf)
- The full survey report, including all party responses, is available from BusinessNZ. (https://businessnz.org.nz/)
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4. More improvements to strengthen Local Govt Act
September 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Further changes to a Bill aimed at strengthening the Local Government Act to support councils’ focus on core services and improving systems have been introduced to the House today, Local Government Minister Simon Watts says.
Progress will this week be made through the House on the Local Government (System Improvements) Amendment Bill.
Several amendments are being made, including to support council-controlled water organisation borrowing and ensure a smoother transition to the new system for council codes of conduct and standing orders.
“This will give councils increased ability to invest in critical infrastructure and pay it off over the long-term to match the life of the assets,” Mr Watts says.
“As already announced, the Bill will also be amended to strengthen local democracy and accountability by clarifying that non-elected members of council committees will not have voting rights, subject to specified exceptions. It has been confirmed that the change also applies to members of Houkura, the Auckland Council’s Independent Māori Statutory Board.
“The Board will continue to perform its functions and provide advice to the council – this change is being made to ensure fairness and consistency across Government policy. There will be a 6-month transition period.”
Another amendment being made will give councils targeted powers to recover infrastructure costs created by Fast-track developments, which will limit costs falling squarely on ratepayers.
The Government is also strengthening councillors’ access to council information so they can make informed decisions and better represent their communities, as well as giving councils more flexibility in how requests are managed.
“Councillors need timely access to information to do their jobs effectively. This amendment will improve transparency as well as give councils the ability to set their own process for providing it,” Mr Watts says.
“This Government is committed to fixing the basics and building the future by making practical changes that strengthen local government, improve accountability and keep councils focused on delivering their communities.”
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/15/more-improvements-to-strengthen-local-govt-act/
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5. Historic Otago bridge set for replacement
September 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Chris Bishop today announced $3.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to replace Albert Burn Bridge on State Highway 6 (SH6) in Otago.
Mr Jones says reliable infrastructure is essential to Otago’s economy.
“Regional economies cannot grow without dependable infrastructure. Businesses need to get their goods to market, visitors need to reach their destinations, and communities need connections they can count on,” Mr Jones says.
“The Regional Infrastructure Fund is about backing the infrastructure that makes regional economic growth possible. Replacing Albert Burn Bridge will help protect an important link for Otago’s economy.
“This is a practical investment in the region’s future. We’re helping keep freight moving, businesses connected and communities open for business.”
Albert Burn Bridge is approximately 140 years old and is supported by heritage dry-stone abutments that provide limited seismic resilience. Further deterioration or earthquake damage could require closure of the route and a diversion of approximately 52 kilometres.
“Albert Burn Bridge has served the region well for generations, but replacement is now needed to ensure this important route remains safe and reliable,” Mr Bishop says.
“The Government is committed to looking after critical transport infrastructure and making investments that strengthen network resilience before significant problems emerge.”
Design and consenting work is expected to begin within six months, with construction expected to commence in 2027.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/15/historic-otago-bridge-set-for-replacement/
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6. HKUST Welcomes the Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Strengthening Partnerships in Education, Research, and Talent Development
September 15, 2026
Source: Media Outreach
H.E. Mr. Abdulla Nigmatovich ARIPOV, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan (seventh right, middle row); Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government (seventh left, middle row); Prof. Harry SHUM, Council Chairman of HKUST (sixth left, middle row); and Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST (sixth right, middle row), pose for a photo with students from Uzbekistan during the Prime Minister’s official visit to HKUST.
The Uzbek delegation of 24 members was warmly received by Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government; Prof. Harry SHUM, Council Chairman of HKUST; Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST, and senior university leaders.
In a high-level meeting with the University’s leadership, Prime Minister Aripov engaged in in-depth discussions on higher education development, artificial intelligence (AI), technological innovation, talent cultivation, research commercialization, and opportunities for closer collaboration between Uzbekistan and HKUST. The exchange also explored pathways for strengthening academic partnerships, expanding student and faculty mobility, and supporting Uzbekistan’s ambitions in developing a knowledge-based economy and emerging technology sectors.
Prime Minister Aripov said, “We are deeply impressed by HKUST’s achievements and its ability to translate cutting-edge research and innovation into practical industrial applications. With over 7,000 Uzbek students pursuing higher education across China, we see tremendous potential to strengthen our academic ties with Hong Kong and prioritize HKUST as a key destination for our students. As both Uzbekistan and HKUST mark their 35th anniversaries, establishing this partnership presents a symbolic and meaningful opportunity to expand educational excellence and global reach together.”
Prof. Shum said, “We are deeply honored to welcome Prime Minister Aripov and the distinguished Uzbek delegation to HKUST during the Belt and Road Summit. As a young, globally minded university celebrating our 35th anniversary, HKUST serves as a vital super-connector—bringing together diverse talent from over 80 nationalities. Building on our foundation with the El-Yurt Umidi Foundation, this visit marks a pivotal step in deepening ties between Hong Kong and Central Asia, opening up new horizons for collaborative growth and youth development along the Belt and Road.”
President Ip added, “We were delighted to engage in a highly productive and forward-looking dialogue with Prime Minister Aripov and his delegation. Uzbekistan’s strategic priorities in AI, robotics, fintech, and cybersecurity align closely with HKUST’s research strengths and advanced facilities. AI and medical science, in particular, offer promising areas for collaboration and could serve as important starting points for future joint initiatives. Beyond educational exchanges, we see tremendous opportunities to deepen cooperation in research, innovation, talent development, and knowledge transfer. We look forward to visiting Uzbekistan and working closely with our partners to co-create impactful solutions, nurture future-ready talent, and contribute to sustainable economic and technological development.”
HKUST also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The agreement establishes a framework for educational collaboration and promotes excellence and innovation in teaching, learning, and research. Witnessed by Prime Minister Aripov, Dr. Choi, and Prof. Shum, the MOU was signed by President Ip and Mr. Salomov Uktam RAHIMOVICH, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
The Prime Minister and his delegation toured the HKUST Von Neumann Institute, where they learned about the University’s world-leading research and innovation capabilities in AI. The delegation was introduced to HKUST’s latest advancements in next-generation multimodal AI systems, robotic intelligence technologies, AI-driven 3D understanding and generation, and large-scale healthcare models, as well as their potential applications in addressing societal and industrial challenges. During the visit, the delegation met with 31 Uzbek students studying in Hong Kong, including 14 undergraduates currently enrolled at HKUST, to learn about their academic experiences and life in the city.
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7. King’s Birthday Honours recipients recognised – Fire and Emergency NZ
September 15, 2026
Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand
Four Fire and Emergency New Zealand personnel from Auckland, Dunedin, Ōmokoroa, and Richmond were presented with King’s Birthday Honours by the Governor-General, the Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro, at an investiture ceremony at Government House in Wellington today.
Fire and Emergency Board Chair Raveen Jaduram was pleased to be part of the Fire and Emergency Royal Honours luncheon, held at Parliament following the investiture ceremony, celebrating the recipients and their well-deserved recognition.
“Our people being honoured today have made outstanding contributions across Fire and Emergency, as well as fostering strong connections within their communities.”
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate their achievements. We thank them for the lasting contribution they have made in service to Fire and Emergency and to Aotearoa New Zealand. Their communities are stronger because of their work.”
An additional two King’s Service Medal recipients, Ralph Pitcher and Graeme Kates, will be attending ceremonies to receive their awards later in September and October.
Congratulations to the recipients:
Mr Esitone (Leota Pauga Esitone) PAUGA, appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
Leota Pauga Esitone Pauga has served for more than 40 years with Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the preceding New Zealand Fire Service (NZFS).
Mr Pauga became a career firefighter in 1981 and served until retirement in 2025. He was an operational firefighter for 32 years before attaining the role of Assistant Commander in 2013 and Area Commander in 2015, latterly holding roles with Fire and Emergency national headquarters. He co-founded Afi Pasefika (Pacific Fire) in 1996, an initiative which has become an important part of the People Led Network and Pacific representation and advocacy within Fire and Emergency. Under his guidance Afi Pasefika has grown into a national network of career and volunteer firefighters, support personnel, and executive officers. The network works closely with Pacific communities to deliver fire safety messages, foster recruitment, and provide career advice for Pacific personnel. He was the Fire and Emergency representative on the Te Kiwi Māia Advisory Group from 2021 to 2025. His leadership has enabled firefighters and their family to access specialised wellness and recovery support. He has strengthened the relationship between Fire and Emergency and the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority, establishing collaborative initiatives to enhance operational capability. Mr Pauga led a team of firefighters to Samoa as part of New Zealand’s contribution to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in 2024.
Ms Michele Margot POOLE, appointed as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand.
Ms Michele Poole has contributed to emergency responses across New Zealand for more than 30 years.
Ms Poole is currently a Senior Regional Communications and Engagement Advisor at Fire and Emergency New Zealand. She is a member of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Emergency Management Assistance Team, the Fire and Emergency Urban Search and Rescue Command and Technical Support team, and the Maritime New Zealand National Oil Spill Response team. She represents Fire and Emergency on the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council Public Information and Warnings Group. She has developed and implemented Fire and Emergency’s Emergency Strategic Communications capability. She trains and supports Public Information Management around New Zealand and has built capability in emergency communication across the public communications sector and in local government. She was instrumental in establishing the New Zealand chapter of Emergency Media and Public Affairs (EMPA) and chaired the New Zealand EMPA Conference from 2014 to 2021. She has contributed to some of New Zealand’s most significant emergency responses including the 2011 Christchurch and 2016 Kaikōura earthquakes, Whakaari/White Island eruption in 2019, and Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. She has been deployed to major emergency responses in New South Wales and Queensland in Australia. For her contributions to emergency communications, Ms Poole was made a Fellow of EMPA.
Mr Ian John BLUNT, awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community.
Chief Fire Officer Ian Blunt has contributed more than 40 years to community service and leadership, primarily through Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade.
Mr Blunt joined Ōmokoroa Volunteer Fire Brigade in 1984, progressing from Station Officer in 1988 to current Chief Fire Officer since 2002. He has played a key role in regional emergency preparedness and inter-agency cooperation by forging effective partnerships between Fire and Emergency New Zealand, St John, Coastguard, and local Bay of Plenty organisations. In 2015, he pioneered the establishment of New Zealand’s first dedicated Medical First Response Unit staffed solely by medical responders, separate from the firefighting team. This innovation now supports approximately 300 calls annually and is recognised nationally. He has ensured sustainable funding for the station through community and corporate partnerships, enabling the acquisition of vehicles and equipment without requiring members to fundraise. As a long-time member, Chair and Course Superintendent of the Ōmokoroa Golf Club, he has used his own equipment and time to improve the grounds and infrastructure. He has been involved with the Ōmokoroa Boat Club since the early 1980s, serving as Commodore and ensuring ongoing emergency response collaboration to enhance community safety. Mr Blunt has been involved in Ōmokoroa Point School fundraising activities as a member of the Parent Teacher Association and through the Fire Brigade.
Mr Edward Keith (Ted) FORD, awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the dairy industry.
Mr Ted Ford has served the Appleby community over 36 years as a volunteer firefighter and is a prominent member of the Jersey farming industry.
Mr Ford was an inaugural member of the Appleby Volunteer Rural Fire Force in 1988 and was instrumental in its transition to a Fire and Emergency New Zealand Volunteer Fire Brigade in 2017. He worked as a training coordinator and vehicle and equipment coordinator. He has had a long involvement with the Nelson Agricultural and Pastoral Association, becoming Vice President in 2018, and President from 2019 to 2021. He continues to serve as a committee member, focusing on the care and maintenance of the Association’s 100-acre park. He has volunteered with local and national Jersey groups and is a Jersey New Zealand Regional Ambassador for the Upper South Island. He was a committee member for the planning and presentation of the Top of the South New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards. He was Chair for the Top of the South Agricultural Industry Training Organisation and offered training on his farm to develop cadets’ practical and theoretical farming knowledge. Mr Ford was Chair of the Appleby School Committee from 1985 to 1987 and continues to support the school with educational farming visits.
Mr Graeme Lawrence KATES awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to conservation and the community.
Mr Graeme Kates has played a significant role in the protection of native biodiversity in the Arthur’s Pass region for more than 31 years.
In 2003, Mr Kates privately funded extensive stoat and rat traps within the Bealey Valley, a conservation initiative which led to the foundation of the Arthurs Pass Wildlife Trust (APWT). With the APWT, he undertook initial work to protect the Great Spotted Kiwi in the Arthur’s Pass National Park, where his subsequent research and data collection led to improved knowledge of the species. He helped install 106 kilometres of trap line and coordinates the volunteers that service them, resulting in over eight thousand predator species caught within the Arthur’s Pass National Park. He created and maintains a website that updates the public on track and mountain conditions, weather stations and webcams within Arthur’s Pass National Park. As an experienced mountaineer, he wrote ‘Arthur’s Pass: A Guide for Mountaineers’, published by the New Zealand Alpine Club. He voluntarily controls invasive weed species and is largely responsible for the eradication of lupins in the Bealey Valley. Mr Kates also volunteered for Arthur’s Pass LandSAR, and served for more than 29 years with the Arthur’s Pass Volunteer Fire Brigade, including five years as Fire Controller and 17 years as Deputy Fire Controller.
Mr Ralph Edward PITCHER awarded King’s Service Medal (KSM) for services to Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the community.
Mr Ralph Pitcher has served the Whangamatā community for more than 60 years.
Mr Pitcher has been a volunteer firefighter since 1965, still actively serving as part of the Whangamatā Fire Brigade. He assisted with major equipment and building changes to the Brigade and has mentored generations of firefighters. He is founding member, President, and committee member of the Moana House retirement home, where he was integral to the completion of the Wilson Wing Hospital, and five low-cost housing cottages for pensioners. He has served for more than 48 years with the Whangamatā Lions Club, including 15 years as President. He served on several committees and manages the Charitable Trust responsible for dispersing funds to community organisations. He is Trustee of Lions Investment Golf Club, committee member of the Williamson Golf Club and was involved in the establishment of Titoki Golf Club. He was a volunteer ambulance officer and later became Chair of St John’s Whangamatā Ambulance Service. He was a committee member of the Whangamatā Club for 15 years. He was President and was founding member of the Whangamatā Sports Centre and Squash Club, contributing significantly towards the Club’s redevelopment. Mr Pitcher volunteers as a Meals on Wheels driver.
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8. Govt accepts recommendations in the Phillips Inquiry
September 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government has accepted all of the recommendations in the Public Inquiry into the Disappearance of the Phillips Children, which was released today.
“The circumstances of this case were exceptional, if not unique, however lessons must nonetheless be learned, particularly how agencies should work and operate together,” Louise Upston says.
“At the heart of this are the Phillips children who lived for almost four years in isolation from family, community and wider society, in squalid conditions which deprived them of the experiences, relationships, and opportunities New Zealanders would regard as fundamental to a happy and healthy childhood.
“To the Phillips children directly, this report has found that our agencies did not take all practical steps to protect you. For that we are deeply sorry,” Louise Upston says.
The comprehensive Inquiry conducted by Simon Moore KC acknowledges the complexity of the environment, the elevated risk that agencies faced trying to locate the children and recognises the exceptional dedication and courage of many individuals – especially those in the Police and in particular the officer injured on September 8, 2025.
However, the Inquiry highlights areas where agencies didn’t do enough, didn’t share the right information, didn’t listen to the family, or didn’t act with enough urgency.
“Significant opportunities were missed, particularly between the two disappearances,” Louise Upston says.
“The Inquiry found that the harm caused by Tom Phillips isolating the children from family, friends and society was underplayed, minimised or overlooked by agencies for significant periods.
“So too were concerns of the maternal whānau, which were often minimised as being part of a parenting dispute.
“The Inquiry also found that while agencies worked well together at times – a more consistent and collaborative interagency approach could have prevented the children’s disappearance the second time and brought them back sooner.”
The Inquiry made 41 findings and nine recommendations which the Government has accepted. A number of recommendations are already underway as part of the Government’s response to the Poutasi Review and Abuse in Care Inquiry.
Police has strengthened the provisions of its Missing Persons policy to include instances in which children are deliberately concealed or isolated and have strengthened its investigations model to ensure there is senior oversight and appropriate resourcing of prolonged and complex investigations.
Oranga Tamariki, Police and Health NZ have updated the Child Protection Protocol to recognise deliberate concealment, prolonged isolation, and controlling access to children as forms of harm, while mandatory training for core children’s workers to better identify and respond to abuse and neglect is currently being rolled out in phases.
Louise Upston says while it is extremely important government agencies reflect on and learn from this tragic and sad event, it is equally important the Phillips children are left in peace so they can get on with their lives.
“They are the most important people in this. Their interests must come first.”
Editor’s notes:
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/15/govt-accepts-recommendations-in-the-phillips-inquiry/
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9. Susan O’Regan appointed QEII National Trust Chair
September 15, 2026
Source: New Zealand Government
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has today announced the appointment of Susan O’Regan as Chair of the QEII National Trust Board.
Queen Elizabeth II National Trust is an independent charitable trust which works alongside private landowners to protect open spaces of special significance through establishing and monitoring covenants.
It plays a critical role in supporting landowners and protecting conservation values, encouraging private entities to protect nature for the benefit of Aotearoa New Zealand’s people and biodiversity.
“I believe Susan will provide sound leadership to the Board and enhance the Trust’s connections with the rural sector and Iwi,” Mr Potaka says.
“The QEII Trust is in good hands.”
Susan O’Regan is a Waikato dairy farmer with strong connections to the rural community, and a current Crown appointment of the Waikato River Authority. As former Mayor of Waipa District, she brings considerable experience in local government, strong leadership, and stakeholder relationship management.
Susan takes on the role of Chair after the previous Chair, Alan Livingstone, sadly passed away in April of this year.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/15/susan-oregan-appointed-qeii-national-trust-chair/
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10. $14.37 an hour: ACT’s pay cut for young workers
September 15, 2026
Source: NZCTU
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi is calling on all political parties to reject ACT’s plan to slash pay for workers under 20 and a three-year freeze on the minimum wage.
“Paying young people $14.37 an hour is unconscionable. It’s nowhere near enough to live on, and it tells young workers their time is worth less than everyone else’s,” says Sandra Grey, NZCTU President.
ACT’s proposed training wage would let employers pay under-20s 60 percent of the adult minimum wage for their first 12 months with any employer. Working full-time, that’s $29,889.60 a year – $19,926 less than an adult on the minimum wage doing the same job.
It would replace the current starting-out wage, cutting the bottom rate for young workers by a quarter, from $19.16 to $14.37 an hour. And because it applies to any employer, it massively widens the scope and means that a young person could be dropped back to it every time they change jobs.
“David Seymour and ACT seem intent on dragging young workers back to 19th-century levels of hardship,” says Grey.
ACT is again proposing to freeze the minimum wage at its current rate for three years. Based on the Reserve Bank’s latest inflation forecasts, that would leave a full-time minimum wage worker $3,877 worse off annually by 2029 than if the rate kept pace with inflation.
The minimum wage has already fallen four percent in real terms since 2023 under ACT Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden. A full-time minimum wage worker in 2026 earns $2,076 less than they would if the minimum wage had risen in line with inflation.
“This would lock in pay cuts for the workers who can least afford them,” says Grey.
“The minimum wage is already 20 percent below the Living Wage – the next Government should be closing that gap, not widening it.”
ACT’s wider small business package is another attack on working people. It would make it easier for employers to pressure workers out of their jobs without accountability, and cut the time workers have to take a personal grievance to the Employment Relations Authority from three years to three months. “New Zealand should be building an economy where work pays enough to live and thrive on – not cutting wages, weakening rights and leaving working people worse off,” says Grey.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/15/14-37-an-hour-acts-pay-cut-for-young-workers/
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