AM Edition: Top 10 Politics Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for September 25, 2026 – Full Text

MIL OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

Cabinet has agreed to 12 targeted amendments to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 that will give Māori landowners more control, speed up Māori Land Court processes and make it easier to use and develop whenua Māori, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says.

The Act sets the rules for how whenua Māori is owned, managed, passed on and developed, while helping keep it in Māori ownership.

“Whenua Māori is often owned by many descendants. A decision that would be simple for a single landowner can require extra legal steps and another trip to the Māori Land Court, costing whānau time and money,” Mr Potaka says.

“One of the biggest changes will give landowners a new voluntary option for managing their whenua, similar to the Wi Pere Trust. Those who choose it will be able to make more decisions themselves rather than having to return to the Court as often.

“This will provide more governance autonomy, making it easier to access investment and turn plans for new homes, businesses or other developments into reality.

“Whānau will choose whether to use the new structure. The protections that keep whenua Māori in Māori ownership will stay.

“We are also making it clearer who owns what, confirming that the Māori Land Court can make decisions about homes on Māori land, removing unnecessary court steps and allowing adopted people to inherit Māori land interests from their birth parents.

“The law will also be fixed so whenua without a trust or other formal body can access emergency and recovery funding where stable. 

“After Cyclone Gabrielle, some whānau could not get recovery support simply because nobody was legally able to apply on behalf of their whenua. They had survived a devastating cyclone but were then blocked by paperwork when they needed help most.”

These amendments build on our Government’s wider work to help whānau bring plans for their whenua to life. This includes national standards making it easier to build papakāinga, changes supporting Te Tumu Paeroa and Māori Development Fund investment in 30 Iwi and Māori-owned whenua initiatives.

Ministry for Primary Industries research estimates that helping whenua Māori reach its productive potential could generate an additional $2.3 billion in annual revenue and create thousands of jobs.

“These changes mean more opportunities for whānau to build homes, grow businesses, create jobs and earn income from their whenua without giving it up,” Mr Potaka says.

“The protections remain, but the unnecessary barriers will go.”

An Amendment Bill will now be drafted for introduction to Parliament.

Notes to editor:

Cabinet has agreed to 12 targeted amendments covering land development, access to services, Māori Land Court efficiency and outdated administrative requirements.
The proposals include an optional management structure for Māori landowners, access to emergency and recovery support for ungoverned whenua, clearer criteria and jurisdiction for the Māori Land Court to determine ownership over dwellings on whenua Māori, stronger succession rights for adoptees and streamlined court processes.
Ministry for Primary Industries research estimates lifting the productivity of underperforming whenua Māori could generate an additional $2.3 billion in annual revenue and thousands of employment opportunities.
Te Puni Kōkiri has invested $28.081 million through the Māori Development Fund over the past two years across 30 initiatives supporting the productivity of Iwi and Māori-owned whenua.
The reforms build on the Government’s National Environmental Standards for Papakāinga and its wider work on landlocked whenua, Māori-led fast-track projects and modernising whenua Māori governance.
An Amendment Bill will now be drafted for introduction to Parliament.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/protecting-whenua-maori-without-holding-whanau-back/

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government will take additional time before deciding which Head Start local government reform proposals should progress to detailed design RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts say. 

“Last year the Government proposed changes to simplify local government, reduce duplication and better align council structures with the new planning system,” Mr Watts says.

“As a result, we launched the Head Start pathway, giving councils the opportunity to put forward their own reorganisation proposals.

“It is clear from the response we received that there is genuine appetite for change.”

Eighteen proposals were submitted in August against the Government’s objectives for a simpler, more effective and accountable local government system.

“After considering these proposals, more work is required before Cabinet can make final decisions on Head Start.

“While the overall quality of proposals was high, none came with the unanimous view of the region, and some needed further analysis before they can progress. These are important gaps we must fill in prior to making final decisions.

“Particular areas that require further development include ensuring fair and effective representation with streamlined governance, and the transfer and delivery of regional functions.

“Rather than asking councils to commit further time and resources to finalise proposals now, the Government will now work to fill in these gaps over the next few months. Cabinet will consider these proposals in early-2027.”

Mr Bishop say the Government remains committed to local government reform aligned with the new planning and environmental management systems.

“Officials have been asked to provide further advice prior to taking a recommended package to Cabinet for progression into the detailed design phase of the process.

“The Government continues to expect proposals endorsed by Cabinet to be developed in detail and considered for final approval in 2027, with Head Start changes intended to be in place ahead of the 2028 local government elections.

“Work is also continuing on the backstop process for areas that do not progress through Head Start. Decisions on that process will be informed by lessons from the Head Start pathway, consultation feedback and further advice from officials. We continue to expect decisions on this in early 2027.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/more-time-for-head-start-decisions/

Source: New Zealand Government

Taranaki’s Forgotten World Highway and Surf Highway will receive government funding to replace two essential culverts to strengthen the region’s transport links and economic resilience, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Transport Minister Chris Bishop say.

A total of $7.5 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund will go to fixing the Toko Stream Tributary Culvert on SH43 (Forgotten World Highway) and Whenuariki Stream Culvert on SH45 (Surf Highway).

Mr Jones says the investment, of $2.5m for SH43 and $5m for SH45, reflect the Government’s commitment to fix regional infrastructure.

“Culverts may not be sexy, but they are essential to keep our community links intact. The Forgotten World Highway is an important route for regional communities, tourists, and businesses. They need infrastructure that is fit for purpose,” Mr Jones says.

The Toko Stream Tributary Culvert is estimated to have only two years left in it and is so damaged that if it fails, the state highway could be closed, resulting in a 50km diversion.

“Transport infrastructure is critical to the success of our regions. This investment will help ensure communities remain connected and businesses can continue to move people and goods efficiently,” Mr Bishop says.

The century-old, hand-dug Whenuariki Stream Culvert on the Surf Highway has already experienced a partial collapse and erosion is progressing toward the highway. A failure could result in major disruption, with heavy vehicles facing a 133km diversion.

“This project is a good example of why proactive investment matters,” Mr Bishop says.

“The Whenuariki culvert has reached the point where replacement is the most sensible long-term solution. By acting now, we’re reducing the risk of major disruption to road users and ensuring the Surf Highway remains a reliable route for years to come.”

Mr Jones says regional communities need infrastructure that supports economic activity and keeps people connected.

“We know the regions want investment that delivers practical results, and that’s exactly what this project does. Replacing these ageing assets will help improve network resilience, support local businesses and keep those connections throughout coastal Taranaki.”

Design and consenting work on the culverts is expected to begin within six months with construction expected to begin in 2027.

Editors’ note: 

The Regional Infrastructure Fund invests in infrastructure that supports economic growth, strengthens resilience, improves regional productivity, and helps unlock investment opportunities across regional New Zealand.

These projects were selected based on delivery readiness, regional need, resilience and safety benefits, and their ability to progress to design and consenting in the next six months.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/critical-fixes-for-major-taranaki-highways/

Source: New Zealand Government

The government is boosting support for wildlife care facilities because of their key role in New Zealand’s bird flu surveillance and response, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka and Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard say.

Six accredited wildlife care facilities will share $150,000 in one-off funding:

Dunedin Wildlife Hospital
Wellington Zoo
Auckland Zoo (NZCCM)
BirdCare Aotearoa
South Island Wildlife Hospital
Massey Wildbase Hospital 

“Wildlife care facilities are important partners in protecting our vulnerable native species,” Mr Potaka says.

“Their staff and volunteers make a valuable contribution to conservation and help us understand emerging threats like bird flu. This funding recognises that work and helps them keep caring for wildlife safely.”

“These facilities are an important part of New Zealand’s surveillance for bird flu, as part of existing contracts with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI),” Mr Hoggard says.

“Early detection will be critical to limiting the impact on industries, wildlife and communities if bird flu spreads beyond individual wild birds. This funding lets facilities target what they need most, whether that’s stronger biosecurity protocols, new equipment or more capacity to care for sick or injured native birds.”

MPI has also offered wider support to wildlife care facilities, including equipment and practical information.

The public has an important role in early detection. People should not touch sick or dead birds and should report groups of three or more to MPI’s exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66 or at report.mpi.govt.nz.

For one or two sick or injured native birds or other wildlife, call DOC’s emergency hotline on 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468). Please don’t handle wildlife or take them home or to DOC offices.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/funding-boost-for-bird-flu-surveillance/

Source: New Zealand Government

Quarter four mental health and addiction target results released today include youth access data for the first time, while nationally more people are getting faster access to support, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“The Government committed to publicly reporting youth mental health data because we agree there needs to be greater transparency around youth mental health,” Mr Doocey says.

“For the first time, today’s results give New Zealanders a public picture of how young people are tracking against the Government’s three access targets.

“These results show 77.5 per cent of young people accessed primary mental health support within one week and 78.7 per cent accessed specialist mental health support within three weeks.

“Nearly half of the districts met or exceeded the 80 per cent target for faster primary mental health and addiction services.

“74.2 per cent of young people were admitted, transferred or discharged from an emergency department within six hours.

“We know there is more work to do to make sure young people can get faster access to support. The youth roadmap that is being developed with young people, will be a real game changer. This will ensure that support is designed around their needs and what works best for them. 

“Nationally, the results show we are meeting four out of the five targets, with over 83 per cent of people accessing primary mental health and addiction support within one week, while more than 82 per cent are accessing specialist services within three weeks. Both remain above the Government’s 80 per cent targets.

“Reassuringly, whilst the number of people accessing mental health and addiction support has continued to increase, we are also still improving how quickly people are being seen.

“In quarter four, more than 64,000 people accessed primary mental health and addiction support, the highest quarterly result so far. Despite this, 83.3 per cent of people have continued to get faster access to support.

“We have also seen more people presenting to emergency departments seeking mental health support, with more than 6,400 presentations recorded in quarter four, up from 5,679 when we first started reporting the data. Despite this increase, 70.8 per cent were admitted, transferred or discharged within six hours, up from 68.5 per cent last quarter.

“This shows we are continuing to improve access and reduce waiting times while more people are coming through the system and getting the support they need. 

“The youth data will give us an important measure of whether we are improving access for young people. Alongside the national results which covers all ages, they show we are continuing to move in the right direction.

“We will keep driving improvements so more New Zealanders, including young people, have faster access to support, more frontline workers and a better crisis response.” 

Notes to editor:

The full results can be found here 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/youth-mental-health-target-data-reported-for-first-time/

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

Well, that’s a hard act to follow.

Hey, welcome everybody. Tēnā koutou katoa. Ngā mihi nui ki a koutou, and welcome.

It is an absolute pleasure to be here at the 2026 International Confederation of Principals Convention.

Thank you to our hosts, the New Zealand Principals’ Federation, and to your members for such a generous welcome. You’ve made this a very warm, memorable, and distinctly Kiwi gathering.

And those performers from James Cook, who were so incredible and inspiring, are just the first, I hear, of many performances and speeches that you’re going to be receiving from Kiwi students across New Zealand.

To those of you who’ve travelled from over 50 countries, thank you for making the long journey here to New Zealand. We are incredibly honoured to have you.

I hope you enjoy your time here in New Zealand, the land of the long white cloud, and experience some of what makes New Zealand unique.

But most of all, I hope that the days together spark new ideas, some interesting conversations, and connections that last much longer than today and the next few days.

The theme of this year’s convention, the seeds of the flax bush that are dispersed by the four winds, captures this beautifully.

It reminds us that good ideas do not stay in one place. They’re shared, they’re adapted, they grow. And when they move between people, communities, and our countries, we can create something even stronger.

I want to acknowledge today all of the teachers, the principals, and the school leaders who are here from New Zealand and across the world.

I want to acknowledge the work that you do every day. You do more than teach, you lead. You open doors, you build confidence, and you harness potential. And you plant those seeds in young people that can last a lifetime.

On behalf of the government, and as the Minister of Education, I want to say thank you for your professionalism, your commitment, and above all, the care you show for our young people and their whānau, their families, every single day.

Because ultimately, the measure of our work is not just in what we know, it’s what we pass on to the next generation and the opportunities and knowledge that that opens up for them.

In a world of growing complexity and change, this work has never been more important.

I want to share with the international delegates a little bit about what is happening here in New Zealand, because there is a significant reform in education underway to build the skills and knowledge and confidence in young people that will set them up for a really bright future.

We have been facing some of the challenges that many of you may have also faced in your own countries: achievement that has been declining over many decades.

Everyone in this room, including myself, wants to turn that around, increase achievement, improve achievement, and close that stubborn equity gap, and follow the science, the research, and the evidence to do everything we can to get there.

For those of you in the room from overseas, we have followed our six priorities.

Reforming the curriculum to a knowledge-rich, year-by-year, internationally benchmarked curriculum, so that it doesn’t matter which school you go to, you have access to the skills and knowledge that you need to succeed, and putting that across the whole of New Zealand.

There is a pedagogical shift underway. The reading wars are over.

We are teaching structured literacy in every school in New Zealand: phonemic awareness, how to sound out words, for young children to learn how to read, and structured literacy throughout our primary schools.

Structured mathematics and the resources that go along with it. We’ve trained tens of thousands of teachers in structured literacy and structured maths.

We’re doing twice-yearly assessments to make sure that we can intervene really early with tailored interventions around literacy and numeracy when children start to fall behind, because we know that if we intervene early, the results are so much better.

And of course, all of this is informed by much better data and evidence.

What I want to say is that the most important part of these reforms are the teachers and principals in the system.

All of these reforms have been helped and informed by the groups of principals who are here in this room. I want to make sure that I acknowledge them and thank them for the work that they’ve done alongside us to help guide this work.

As leaders, you are integral in making sure not only that the policy is fit for purpose, but that it is implemented with fidelity.

We work alongside groups like the Auckland Primary Principals’ Association, who are here today, I know. They survey their members, they come back to me. Sometimes the results aren’t always what I want to hear, but we make changes when we see that things aren’t working on the ground.

Auckland Primary Principals have done a wonderful job at helping guide some of that policy work, alongside people like the Wellington, Christchurch, and Rotorua Principals’ Associations, who we’ve tested ideas with, tried things with, and got their feedback on.

The Association of Middle Schools have been helping us with how we improve mathematics, and what we can do to bring forward some of the changes in the health curriculum, so important to our middle schoolers.

The Southland Primary Principals’ Association have been on at me about teacher supply. They’ve done a wonderful job at making sure it is top of mind, and some of the changes we’ve made have been because of the relationship with those principals, and I thank them.

The Rural Schools Association, wonderfully led by Jane and Andrew, have been absolutely integral in making sure that we’re thinking about rural and isolated schools in all of the reforms that we’re undertaking.

How do we roll out a curriculum in multi-year classrooms? They’re helping us with that guidance and support that’s going to be coming to all schools around the country.

The Primary Principals’ Collective Bargaining Union have been amazing at coming to my office and sitting down with ideas and the way forward for some of our challenges. The Secondary School Principals’ Association, same thing.

I appreciate your help, your support, and your guidance so much, because these reforms have been led and driven by the information and support you have provided us.

And now, these significant reforms that we’re undertaking in New Zealand are up to the principals and the teachers to pick up and run with, and lead through their professionalism and with their leadership skills.

And I can tell the international principals in this room that that is exactly what is happening, and the results are already showing.

I am really, really proud.

In New Zealand, over a very short period of time, in the last three years, our little wee five-year-olds’ phonemic awareness, their sounding out of words, has improved phenomenally.

In Term One last year, 36% of kids were at expectations for their phonics. 58% two terms later. Huge gains.

For our Māori children, 25% to 39%. And for our most disadvantaged schools, 18% to a third in just two terms.

That is because of the leadership and the professionalism of our principals and the hard work of our teachers who are running with these reforms.

The Curriculum Insights show that writing and mathematics are improving dramatically for the first time in a long time, again because of the hard work of teachers on the ground.

And then in PISA, and I know you will have all been looking at the PISA results in the last few days, I’m really proud of what’s happened in New Zealand, because we did buck the worldwide trend of decline.

We insulated ourselves from the effects of COVID, which have ravaged the education sectors in so many countries.

And again, that is down to the incredibly hard work of our secondary school principals and teachers, who have been focusing on literacy and numeracy and improving achievement and putting in hard work every single day.

The thing that I’m most proud of is that while our results held flat, those students from the most disadvantaged quartile lifted.

The equity gap in New Zealand has been stubborn for decades, and it’s starting to close.

In science, we made a year’s worth of progress for those students. In maths, it was three terms, and in reading, it was two terms. And that is significant.

Those are the children we need to change the lives of the most when it comes to education.

My philosophy, and I have to say I did steal this phrase from the Minister of Education in Singapore, is: “Your means should not determine your destiny.”

That is what we are striving for in New Zealand, to make sure that those students who need an education the most to change their lives get the benefit of a world-leading education system that we, together in New Zealand, are building.

We are turning things around. It’s happening more quickly than we expected, and the results are showing that.

I want to go back to my thanks and gratitude to the sector.

You can be the Minister of Education and have a whole lot of nice policies written on paper, but it means nothing without the excellent principals and teachers in this country who are leading this reform.

I owe them a huge debt of gratitude, because they are the reason that these results are improving.

So over the coming days, I hope you laugh together, you challenge each other, you share what works, and, best perhaps, see something different.

I have done that myself with my counterparts, especially in Australia. For the Australians who are here, thank you for all of your support.

I’ve worked very closely with Jason Clare, your Minister of Education, and some of the people in different states who’ve been helping us with some of our work.

And to those who were here last time, I did mention the fact that the South Australians sold us their phonics check that they got for free from the UK, but it was only $10, so I forgive you for that.

But I just wanted to make the point that we are all connected. We are sharing ideas. We are sharing resources. We’re taking what works from the countries who are soaring and doing really well. And thank you.

So for you as educators, sharing what you know, learning from each other, and asking what is possible is what the next few days are all about.

And somewhere in a classroom, there is a young person who’s going to benefit from what happens here today, and that’s why the work that you’re doing matters.

Have a wonderful convention, and for those of you that have joined us from overseas, I hope you get a chance to see a little bit more of our beautiful country.

Tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/09/24/address-to-the-2026-international-confederation-of-principals-convention/