Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed three key reappointments across Māori whenua, economic development, and Māori broadcasting governance.

The appointments are Dr Charlotte Severne ONZM as Māori Trustee, Hinerangi Edwards ONZM as a trustee of the Poutama Trust Board, and Brian Morris as a member of the Te Māngai Pāho Board.

“The reappointments provide continuity for organisations that help unlock the potential of Māori land, support Māori enterprise, and strengthen te reo Māori through broadcasting,” Mr Potaka says.

“Dr Charlotte Severne, Hinerangi Edwards and Brian Morris each bring strong governance experience and a deep commitment to delivering positive outcomes for Māori.

“Their continued leadership will help ensure these organisations continue supporting Māori landowners, growing Māori enterprise, and promoting te reo Māori and tikanga Māori.

“I thank Charlotte, Hinerangi and Brian for their ongoing service and their continued commitment to Māori development.”

Notes to editors

Dr Charlotte Severne ONZM

Dr Severne has served as Māori Trustee since 2018, leading Te Tumu Paeroa through a period of significant operational change. Her reappointment for a further two-year term will support the continued delivery of statutory trustee services, sound financial management and organisational stability.

Hinerangi Edwards ONZM

Ms Edwards has served on the Poutama Trust Board since 2021. She brings extensive governance, commercial, investment and Māori economic development experience and has been reappointed for a further five-year term.

Brian Morris

Mr Morris has more than 30 years’ experience in education, publishing, te reo Māori and tikanga Māori. His reappointment for a further three-year term will support Te Māngai Pāho’s work to promote Māori language and culture through broadcasting and content.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/28/leadership-reappointments-confirmed-for-maori-whenua-economic-development-and-broadcasting/

Date:  27 July 2026

The holiday park is owned by the Department of Conservation (DOC), and operates under management agreement with Te Hokinga Limited.

DOC Project Manager Jeremy Gadd says the transformation of the lodge includes insulation and effective heating solutions, along with the new paint job and a refreshed interior.

“It’s a far more welcoming and comfortable place for visitors, somewhere you’d want to return to at the end of the day after exploring the park,” says Jeremy.

“We’re incredibly fortunate to have worked with so many valued partners, including Dulux, whose paint sponsorship helped make this project possible.”

The 32-bed lodge is popular with school groups and other large parties seeking affordable, on-site accommodation in the heart of Whakapapa Village.

Te Hokinga Ltd Director Te Ngaehe Wanikau says the refurbishment reflects a shared commitment to caring for one of Aotearoa’s most significant places.

“Tongariro National Park holds a special place in the hearts of our people, and we want visitors to enjoy an experience that reflects the mana of this landscape,” says Te Ngaehe.

“We are proud to be part of a partnership investing in the future of Whakapapa Village and supporting people to connect with this remarkable place.”

DOC Tongariro Operations Manager Libby O’Brien says Tongariro National Park is special and warrants continued investment.

“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when we work collectively, to enhance visitor experiences in a dual World Heritage national park.

“We want every visitor to have a positive and memorable experience, wherever they go in the park,” says Libby. “That’s what we’re working towards.”

Thousands of people enjoyed naturing on the slopes of Ruapehu over the recent school holidays, and ongoing investment in Whakapapa Village will continue to enhance the experience for visitors to Tongariro National Park for years to come.

Contact

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/breathing-new-life-into-whakapapa-holiday-park/

Over 97,500 New Zealand families have now received FamilyBoost payments to help with the cost of early childhood education, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

“Raising young children comes with significant costs, and this Government is committed to backing working parents with practical support that makes a real difference,” Nicola Willis says. 

“Last year we expanded FamilyBoost because we wanted more families to benefit and to receive larger payments.

“We increased the rebate from 25 per cent to 40 per cent of eligible early childhood education costs, increased the maximum payment from $75 to $120 a week, and expanded eligibility to families with an average household income of up to $229,000 a year.

“The latest figures show those changes are working. The average payment has increased by 70 per cent, and across the three quarters since the expansion an average of 12,331 families each quarter have received $75 or more each week towards their childcare costs.

“The June quarter is still being processed, but already 9,498 families have received $75 or more a week in FamilyBoost payments, with more claims continuing to come in.

“FamilyBoost is about making it easier for parents to balance work and family life while easing pressure on household budgets.

“We know that childcare costs can be a significant barrier for families, particularly when parents are returning to work after having children. That’s why we’ve strengthened FamilyBoost so more working families can access meaningful support.

“Since the scheme was expanded, registrations have continued to grow. Around 115,000 families have now registered for FamilyBoost, with over 97,500 families having already received at least one payment.

“I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to register through Inland Revenue. It only takes a few minutes and families have up to four years to make a claim.

“Backing working parents and giving children the best possible start in life is part of this Government’s plan to fix the basics and build a stronger future. When families have more support to balance work and family life, they’re better able to get ahead, and that’s good for parents, children, and the wider New Zealand economy,” Nicola Willis says.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/over-97500-families-benefiting-from-familyboost/

Hon Penny Simmonds, Minister for Tertiary Education and Minister of Science, Innovation and Technology, is travelling to the People’s Republic of China to visit Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, this week. Minister Simmonds will be accompanied by a delegation of 11 senior leaders of New Zealand institutes of technology and polytechnics (ITPs).

The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between New Zealand and China in the Tertiary Education, and Science, Innovation and Technology areas, to promote New Zealand as a destination of choice for Chinese students, and to visit technology and research sites in Southern China to promote scientific collaboration between New Zealand and China.

While in China, the Minister will meet with the Minister of Education of China, Mr Huai Jinpeng, as well as education officials of Shanghai Municipal People’s Government. 

“Vocational education is an important area of collaboration within the New Zealand-China relationship, built on enduring partnerships that have grown over the years,” says Minister Simmonds.

“Significant opportunities exist to strengthen educational connections between New Zealand and China and to increase the attractiveness of the New Zealand international education offering to Chinese students and agents.

“We’re deepening our education links through student exchanges, institutional partnerships, that benefit both countries, and I look forward to discussing what the future holds with my ministerial counterpart.

“I am looking forward to connecting with existing partners and exploring new avenues for education and science and innovation research cooperation between our countries,” Minister Simmonds says.

The visit supports the Government’s Going for Growth agenda to grow the value of international education and unleash growth and innovation in New Zealand. China is New Zealand’s largest source of international students and is the second largest source of international students for ITPs.

A visit to the New Zealand-China Joint Laboratory for Biomedicine and Health in Guangzhou will highlight our strong bilateral collaboration in biomedical research, including promising developments in cancer therapeutics. The visit to the XPeng Technology Park will showcase how China is translating research and innovation into commercial outcomes in areas such as electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, autonomous driving and advanced manufacturing.

Minister Simmonds departed New Zealand on Sunday 26 July 2026 and will return on Friday 31 July 2026.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/27/tertiary-minister-to-strengthen-new-zealands-vocational-education-links-with-china/

Psychology Assistant students are training in New Zealand classrooms for the first time, marking a major milestone in growing the mental health workforce. The first graduates are set to enter the workforce next year, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“Today is a landmark moment. These students are the first to train for a brand-new role that will help more New Zealanders get faster access to mental health support, while creating a new career pathway for psychology graduates,” Mr Doocey says. 

“We know that every year many psychology graduates miss out on the limited number of postgraduate training places. Without other pathways available, too many of these graduates are lost from the mental health workforce. This new role gives them a way to stay in mental health, use their skills, and support more New Zealanders who need help. 

“It’s fantastic to be at the University of Canterbury today to meet the first cohort of students as they begin their training to become New Zealand’s first registered Psychology Assistants. Students are now also undertaking the programme at Auckland University of Technology. 

“Working under the supervision of registered psychologists, Psychology Assistants will provide practical support to people with mental health and addiction needs by delivering low-intensity interventions, supporting assessments, monitoring progress and providing psychoeducation. This will allow psychologists to spend more time with people who have the most complex needs. 

“Budget 2026 invested $28.45 million to establish the Psychology Assistant workforce, supporting employment, supervision and training as this new role is introduced across Health New Zealand and community mental health services. 

“That investment will support up to 50 new Psychology Assistants entering the workforce each year, growing the frontline and helping more New Zealanders access support faster. 

“This is just one part of our plan to grow the psychology workforce. We are also on track to almost double the number of clinical psychology internships, increasing from 40 in 2023 to 74 in 2026. 

“I’ve been clear that doing nothing is not an option while New Zealanders are waiting too long for support. Psychology Assistants are not replacing psychologists; they are working alongside them to help more people access support.  

“The role and its scope of practice have been approved by the New Zealand Psychologists Board, and I believe this role will make a real difference for many.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/24/psychology-assistants-hit-the-books/

Transport Minister Chris Bishop has today announced the reappointment of David Smol and the appointments of Lana Stockman, Steve Haszard and Murdo Beattie to the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Board.

“David Smol’s wide-ranging regulatory, governance and public sector experience will continue to provide valuable oversight to the NZTA Board,” Mr Bishop says.

“Lana Stockman brings a diverse professional background across finance, engineering, psychology and regulation.

“Her understanding of commercial and investment trade-offs for regulators and operators in New Zealand and Australia will strengthen the Board’s capability.

“Steve Haszard is a commercially astute board member and executive leader with strong regulatory experience.

“His experience leading organisations through change, including as Chief Executive of WorkSafe and Managing Partner of Meredith Connell, will be valuable to the Board.

“Murdo Beattie brings deep commercial and investment management experience, including in complex infrastructure and transport-related transactions.

“His leadership on significant transactions, including the recapitalisation of Air New Zealand and the Crown re-acquisition of KiwiRail, will add strong commercial expertise to NZTA’s governance.

“These appointments reflect the Government’s commitment to ensuring NZTA has the governance, regulatory and commercial expertise needed to deliver for New Zealanders.

“I would like to particularly acknowledge Catherine Taylor, who is retiring after five and a half years of service to NZTA. She has made substantial contributions to the Board’s governance and oversight of NZTA. Catherine’s leadership as Chair of the Regulatory Subcommittee has been especially valuable in supporting the Board’s regulatory responsibilities. 

I also thank Pat Dougherty and Mike Rudge for the subject matter expertise and valuable contribution they have brought to the Board,” Mr Bishop says.

Lana Stockman, Steve Haszard and Murdo Beattie’s appointments are for three-year terms ending on 26 July 2029. 

David Smol’s reappointment is for a two-year term ending on 31 July 2028.

Notes to editor:

BIOs

David Smol

David Smol is an experienced leader and director with significant regulatory and public sector knowledge. He currently holds chair roles with Wellington UniVentures, GNS Science, the Ministry of Social Development’s Risk and Assurance Committee, and the Department of Internal Affairs External Advisory Committee. He also holds director roles with the Co-operative Bank, Contact Energy, Victoria University of Wellington Council, the Ministry of Housing, and the Defence Capability Board.

Lana Stockman

Lana Stockman has a diverse professional background with qualifications in finance, engineering and psychology, and has held regulatory roles throughout her career. She has a strong understanding of commercial and investment trade-offs for regulators and commercial operators, at management and governance levels in New Zealand and Australia. Her current roles include the Monash University Energy Market Institute Advisory Council, the Ethics Committee on Assisted Reproductive Technology, and Deputy Chair of the Trinity Schools Trust Board.

Steve Haszard

Steve Haszard is a commercially astute board member and executive leader, skilled in driving transformational change in business and culture. He brings strong regulatory experience through his roles with Meredith Connell, where he developed and managed the firm’s regulatory and compliance advisory business. He was Deputy Chair of the Civil Aviation Authority and Chief Executive of WorkSafe. His current roles include the Audit and Risk Committee at Debt Managers, Chair of the Governance Assurance Board at Talley’s Group Ltd, Independent Director of Stellar Projects, and Independent Director of Meredith Connell.

Murdo Beattie

Murdo Beattie has extensive experience in commercial and investment management, including complex contracting arrangements through his time at Cameron Partners. He has led significant arrangements including the recapitalisation of Air New Zealand, the Crown re-acquisition of KiwiRail, the separation of Spark and Chorus, Australian Infrastructure Fund’s acquisition of North Island gas transmission and distribution assets, the sale of Paymark, and Contact Energy’s acquisition of Mānawa Energy. His previous roles include Senior Advisor and Managing Partner/Director at Cameron Partners, Head of Business Development at Telecom NZ, Fund Manager at Fay Richwhite and Co. and Tower Insurance, Advisor to the Minister of Finance, and Policy Analyst at the New Zealand Treasury.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/24/appointments-to-the-nzta-board/

Construction has begun on the final 500-metre section of the Eastern Busway, a project that will deliver more reliable and efficient transport choice for Aucklanders. 

The full Eastern Busway rapid transit corridor runs from Panmure to Botany, and the final section will connect Ti Rakau Drive to the Te Irirangi Drive/Te Koha Road intersection. A 600-metre shared path through Whakamaumahara Guys Reserve will also extend walking and cycling connections in the area.

“Today marks a major milestone for Auckland’s transport network. When the Eastern Busway fully opens in 2027, it will connect Botany, Pakuranga and Panmure, giving people a reliable 40-minute trip from Botany to the city centre by bus and train,” Mr Bishop says.

“Public transport use on the Eastern Busway is expected to grow significantly, from 3,700 trips a day now to 18,000 by 2028, and 24,000 by 2048. Combined with City Rail Link, it will connect more people with jobs, education, and other opportunities making it easier for people to move around the city.

“After more than a decade working on the Eastern Busway, completing this final section will mean we are one step closer to delivering a fully connected rapid transit corridor between Botany and the city centre, giving more Aucklanders access to fast, reliable public transport. 

Auckland Minister Simon Watts says the population of Auckland’s Howick Ward is expected to pass 190,000 by 2048, projects like the Eastern Busway are essential to giving people safe, reliable transport choices while freeing up local roads for freight and those who need to drive.

“The Eastern Busway is a major investment in Auckland’s future. It will support population growth, reduce congestion and help keep people and freight moving by providing more travel choices. 

“Together with City Rail Link, this project will transform the way people move around our largest city, creating a more connected public transport network that will benefit Aucklanders for decades to come.”

The majority of construction between Pakūranga and Botany is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with the extension through Whakamaumahara Guys Reserve scheduled for completion in mid-2027.

Auckland Transport began construction of the Pakūranga to Botany section in 2023, delivering five kilometres of separated busway, walking and cycling paths, and associated infrastructure. The Botany link route extension received construction funding approval in late 2025, allowing work on the final section to begin.

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown says the Eastern Busway is one of the city’s most significant transport investments.

“Auckland Council has worked alongside the Government to bring this project forward to improve the speed and reliability of public transport and reduce congestion.   

“It also delivers on one of my key policies, to Get Auckland moving,” says Mayor Brown.

“The Eastern Busway will  give people in east Auckland a genuine rapid transit option and make it easier for people to get to their destinations around our city quickly and safely.

“This project is an example of what transport integration enables with a dedicated busway, new stations and walking and cycling routes.”

“This is a major investment in Auckland’s future, and it’s great to see construction now underway on the final link.”

The Eastern Busway section from Pakuranga to Botany is a $1.4 billion joint investment by the Government and Auckland Council.

Notes to Editor: 

More information is available at www.easternbusway.nz.
Auckland Transport is working with Fletcher Construction, ACCIONA, AECOM and Jacobs as the Eastern Busway Alliance to design and build the busway. 
A Transpower electricity cable supplying power to most of Auckland and Northland runs through the project area.  
Attached: Artist impression of the Botany Link route through Whakamaumahara Guys Reserve
The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and Auckland Council have confirmed $101 million in funding to build the Botany link route at Guys Reserve, meaning more efficient transport choices are on the way for Aucklanders living in Botany, 
Construction of the Panmure Station bus and rail interchange started in 2012 and opened in 2014. Construction of the Panmure to Pakuranga section followed in 2019 and opened in 2021. Pakuranga to Botany is the final phase of the project, with work beginning in 2023 and scheduled to open in 2027.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/24/sod-turned-on-final-stage-of-eastern-busway/

Police are urging motorists to carefully consider how long alcohol can remain in their system following routine traffic stops in Southland today. 

Two drivers, one of which was in a school zone, underwent evidential breath testing (EBA), after they were stopped by Police this morning for exceeding the posted speed limit. Both blew over the legal alcohol limit. 

Both drivers admitted to drinking alcohol the night before, but got behind the wheel this morning, incorrectly assuming that it had cleared their system already. 

They were issued with infringement notices for driving with excess breath alcohol, and for exceeding the speed limit. They were also forbidden to drive for 12 hours. 

Constable Mike Ryder says these incidents are a timely reminder that alcohol can remain in a person’s system much longer than many people realise. 

“People often assume that after a night’s sleep they will be under the legal limit and safe to drive. 

“That is not always the case. 

“There is no quick way to sober up – a cup of coffee, a cold shower, or a good night’s sleep, will not speed up the body’s ability to process alcohol. 

“Time is the only factor that reduces alcohol levels,” says Constable Ryder. 

Police are urging anyone who plans to drink alcohol, to make arrangements beforehand. Never drink and drive, and exercise caution before driving the following morning. 

“If you’ve been drinking the night before and you’re not certain you’re fit to drive, don’t take the risk. Driving while impaired puts not only yourself at risk, but everyone else on our roads.” 

Police will continue to actively target impaired driving and unsafe road user behaviour throughout Southland, and anyone who witnesses unsafe road user behaviour should call 111 if it is happening now. 

Non-urgent information can be reported through 105, either online or over the phone, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/23/police-urge-motorists-to-consider-the-morning-after-risk/

More than 400 young people across the Waikato Region will have their education, leadership and employment pathways strengthened through new joint Government and community funding initiatives, Youth Minister James Meager has confirmed.

The Hauraki Māori Trust Board has received $316,000 from the Youth Development Partnership and Innovation Fund to support more than 320 students to smoothly transition to high school, tackling disengagement from education.

Mr Meager says The Trust will match this funding, to $632,000, and deliver the early intervention programme over the next two years.

“By co-funding alongside community organisations and other partners, we are increasing the amount of support and opportunities available to young people that will set them up for success, at no additional taxpayer cost,” Mr Meager says.

The Raukawa Charitable Trust has also received $120,000, alongside matched co-funding from the Department of Internal Affairs and Len Reynolds Trust. It will deliver two programmes over one year, to more than 80 young people. They will be focused on building employability skills and developing education and work opportunities.

“These organisations are deeply connected to the communities they serve, and that local knowledge makes a real difference. They understand the challenges young people are facing in their area and the best ways to help them build confidence, stay engaged, and take the next step toward education, training or work,” Mr Meager says.

“We know strong community partnerships are essential to achieving positive outcomes for young people. When local organisations work alongside government, we can back proven ideas, extend our reach and ensure support is tailored to local needs.

“These investments are part of our new direction for Ministry of Youth Development funding to prioritise programmes that can demonstrate successful outcomes aligned with the Government’s key targets.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/23/partnerships-to-empower-at-risk-waikato-youth/

Education Minister Erica Stanford has announced the Board of the New Zealand School Property Agency (NZSPA), marking the next step in the Government’s plan to overhaul school property and deliver better outcomes for schools, students, and taxpayers.

“The Government inherited a school property system bordering on crisis,” Ms Stanford says.

“We are fixing that. In the past two and a half years, we have significantly reduced the cost of a classroom by using repeatable designs and, as a result, nearly 1400 new classrooms have been fully funded.

“We have moved from a system bogged down by slow decision-making and overly ambitious designs to one that is delivering warm, dry classrooms for students and teachers.

“The newly appointed NZSPA Board will bring the commercial discipline, governance and delivery focus needed to ensure school property investment is better planned, better managed and better delivered.

“We have done a lot to change the way the system works, but there is more to do. The Board will continue to drive the reset and keep the focus firmly on delivery.

NZSPA was established through the Education and Training (System Reform) Amendment Act. The new Crown entity is part of the Government’s response to the Ministerial Inquiry into School Property and will be responsible for planning, building, maintaining, and administering the school property portfolio nationwide.

“This Board brings together the right mix of skills to deliver the reset schools have been asking for: better value for money, faster delivery, clearer communication, and learning environments that work for students, teachers and communities,” Ms Stanford says.

The Board will take up its role when NZSPA is established, replacing the Establishment Board that has supported the transition to the new model.

“I want to thank the Establishment Board for its important work. We are now moving from design to delivery, with a strong Board in place to drive the discipline, pace and accountability this portfolio needs,” Ms Stanford says.

The appointed Board members are:

• Hon Murray McCully CNZM CF – Chair
• Sarah Petersen – Deputy Chair
• Mark Binns – Member
• Rick Herd – Member
• Sue McCormack – Member
• Peter Alexander – Member

A Board focused on delivery

Hon Murray McCully brings the leadership and governance experience needed to drive the school property reset and hold the system to account.

He led the Ministerial Inquiry and chaired the Ministerial Advisory Group, so he understands the scale of change needed and the importance of delivering practical results for schools.

Commercial discipline and strong governance

Deputy Chair Sarah Petersen is a highly respected chartered accountant and governance professional with deep expertise in audit, risk and financial oversight. 

Her experience across education, public governance and regional leadership will help ensure NZSPA has the financial discipline and accountability schools and taxpayers expect.

Infrastructure expertise to get projects moving

Mark Binns brings significant commercial and infrastructure experience that will strengthen how major school property investments are planned, prioritised, and delivered.

His leadership across large-scale infrastructure, energy and commercial projects will support a sharper focus on delivery, cost control, and long-term asset performance.

Rick Herd brings more than 50 years’ experience in construction and engineering, including leading one of New Zealand’s largest construction companies.

His practical delivery experience and credibility with industry will be valuable as NZSPA lifts standards, improves certainty, and gets projects completed for schools.

Experience leading complex organisations

Sue McCormack is an experienced professional director with more than 25 years in governance roles and more than three decades in commercial and corporate law.

She brings expertise in infrastructure, dispute resolution, and leading large, complex organisations through change, including major rebuild programmes and complex stakeholder environments.

Property and investment capability

Peter Alexander brings significant property and investment expertise, with a strong track record across the public and private sectors.

His senior executive and governance experience across organisations including Kiwi Property Group, Auckland Airport and AMP Capital will strengthen NZSPA’s focus on asset management, investment discipline, and long-term planning.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/23/appointments-to-new-school-property-board/

23 July 2026

WorkSafe New Zealand has released new plain-language resources to help businesses better understand workplace exposure standards (WES) and manage risks from harmful airborne substances.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/23/worksafe-releases-practical-guidance-on-workplace-exposure-standards/

Term 3 begins today, and with it the opening of Te Whare Kounga, a new charter school in Wairoa, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour.

“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in ways which are more specific to their needs. Today more students can take advantage of that opportunity,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Te Papatipu Matihiko is the sponsor of Te Whare Kounga and have been operating an alternative education programme in Wairoa for the last two years. That programme was a huge success. Students and schools were lining up to take part once space opened up. The charter school model has allowed them to meet some of this demand. 

“Wairoa has one of the highest rates in the country of young people not in employment, education or training. Te Whare Kounga recognises that mainstream education is failing some children in New Zealand.

“Te Whare Kounga will ensure children in Wairoa have access to all the opportunities associated with a high-quality education. That is what they deserve. 

“The school joins a growing number of Māori charter schools:  Te Rito, Te Kura Taiao in Northland, Te Kāpehu Whetū and TIPENE in Auckland, Te Kura Awhitu in Ruatahuna and Te Aratika High School in Hastings. In Term 1 next year, they’ll be joined by Ngāti Toa Rangatira-led Kura Toa and Te Kura o Ngāti Whātua ki Tāmaki. 

“When it comes to education, one size does not fit all.

“Charter schools show education can be different if we let communities bring their ideas to the table.

“These schools have more flexibility in return for strictly measured results.

“The charter school equation is: the same funding as state schools, plus greater flexibility plus stricter accountability for results, equals student success.

“This takes the total number of open charter schools to 18.

“This is just the beginning. I hope to see many more new charter schools opening, and state and state-integrated schools converting to become charter schools.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/22/new-charter-school-opens-doors/

Provisional school attendance data for Term 2 2026 shows despite high fuel prices in person attendance rates were higher than any Term 2 since 2016, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says. 

In Term 2 2026, 64.2% of students attended school regularly. This was a 5.8 per cent increase from 58.4 per cent in Term 2 2025.  A student attends school ‘regularly’ when they are in class for more than 90 per cent of the term.

“When the Government takes attendance seriously, so do students and their families and care givers,” Mr Seymour says. 

“This data shows attendance rates continue to rise under this Government. We are focussed on fixing what matters, and few things are as important as school attendance. 

“That’s the attitude we’ve taken to attendance during this difficult period. The results speak for themselves. Under this Government attendance during tough times has skyrocketed.

“In Term 2 2022 regular attendance was at 39.6 per cent. In Term 2 2026 about 199,134 more students attended school regularly. Kiwi students are showing up to school more, and parents are pushing them to attend. Those students and parents should be proud.”

The region with the biggest increase in Term 2 2026 was Bay of Plenty (up 8.0 percentage points to 60.5% in Term 2 2026 from 52.5% in Term 2 2025). This was followed by Nelson/Marlborough/West Coast (up 7.3 percentage points to 64.8% in Term 2 2026 from 57.5% in Term 2 2025) and Tāmaki Herenga Waka (up 7.1 percentage points to 57.8% in Term 2 2026 from 50.7% in Term 2 2025).  

“We’re on a roll, and I expect that to continue. Our attendance initiatives are now in force and have delivered results already. As educators, communities, and families become more familiar with new tools, those results will continue to improve,” Mr Seymour says. 

“For example, every school is now required to have implemented their own attendance management plan (AMP). It means there are escalating responses for declining attendance.”

Some examples of how interventions might work are:

5 days absent: The school to get in touch with parents/guardians to determine reasons for absence and set expectations.
10 days absent: School leadership meets with parents/guardian and the student to identify barriers to attendance and develop plans to address this.
15 days absent: Escalating the response to an Attendance Service Provider. If absence escalates beyond this point (or for cases of non-enrolment) prosecution of parents becomes a possibility.

Budget 2025 also included $140 million of additional funding to improve attendance over the next four years.

“We’ve re-organised the provision of attendance services, awarding new contracts and increasing support for services providing excellent results,” Mr Seymour says.

“In 2024 Ministry of Education and ERO reviews found that the attendance services system wasn’t working. Funding was scattershot, distributed inefficiently, and failing to get results. 

“Now, attendance services are much more effective. They’re better resourced, more accountable, better at effectively managing cases and more data driven. Thanks to this Government’s investment, they can reach twice as many students. 

“Attending school is the first step towards achieving positive educational outcomes. Positive educational outcomes lead to better health, higher incomes, better job stability and greater participation within communities. These are opportunities every student deserves.”

This data is provisional and subject to minor changes. 

The years 2020 and 2021 are not included in comparisons because they’re not directly comparable with other years, due to the way that attendance was recorded during Covid-19 lockdowns.

The full provisional data breakdown can be found here: Attendance | Education Counts

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/22/term-2-in-person-attendance-highest-since-2016/

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/22/aucklanders-to-have-theirsayon-proposed-changes-to-plan-change-120/

Nearly 200 schools have begun the process of replacing open-plan classrooms with enclosed learning spaces to create quieter, calmer spaces more suited for learning, Education Minister Erica Stanford announced today.

“When I began visiting schools, teachers consistently told me how difficult it was to teach in open-plan classrooms, and parents also raised strong concerns.

“At the end of 2025, the Ministry of Education launched the Modifying Open Plan Classrooms Initiative and invited schools to register their interest in reinstating classroom walls. A total of 193 schools responded.

“As of June 2026, the Ministry has completed assessments for 46 schools as the first step, with modifications finished at six.

“Schools that have had walls reinstated are reporting overwhelmingly positive feedback.

“Teachers say there is less noise and fewer distractions, stronger student concentration and engagement, and more flexibility in how they teach.

“Quieter classrooms also better support neurodiverse learners and students who need calmer learning environments.

“Children cannot be expected to learn well when surrounded by noise and distractions.”

By the end of the year, at least 38 schools will have received modifications.

The Ministry of Education has also stopped funding new open-plan classroom developments.

The six schools with completed modifications are:

• Beckenham Te Kura o Puroto
  • Foxton Beach School
  • Horotiu School 
  • Karamea Area School 
  • Levin East School
  • Nelson College for Girls

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/22/calmer-quieter-classrooms-as-walls-go-up/

12 minutes ago

EIT’s close partnerships with local industry are helping Hawke’s Bay businesses access the skilled graduates they need.

Technology company Hawke’s Bay Technologies has been relying on EIT graduates for more than a decade as its workforce has grown.

Managing Director Duncan Wallace says one of the strengths of the relationship is EIT’s willingness to listen to industry and adapt to the changing needs of the technology sector.

“We’ve spoken to them in the past about the things we’re seeing change in the IT world. The nice thing is that they’re usually telling me they’re onto it before I’ve even brought it up.”

The relationship began in 2013 when Hawke’s Bay Technologies approached EIT looking for its top computing graduates.

“We went looking and we went to EIT. We asked who the best graduates were from the class of 2013, had a few candidates come through, and that’s how it started. Ever since then, we’ve kept going back.”

Hawke’s Bay Technologies provides technology services and products to businesses and education providers across Hawke’s Bay and beyond, including managed IT, print management, audio-visual solutions, AI automation, phone systems and other technology solutions.

As the business has grown over the past 13 years, so too has its reliance on EIT graduates, who now work across engineering, finance and technical support roles.

“We haven’t grown from 10 people to 32 overnight. We’ve grown gradually, and while we haven’t needed to recruit all the time, we always default back to EIT and ask the lecturers who the go-to people are.

“It has genuinely been really good. We’re really happy with who we’ve got on board, and a lot of them have been here for years.”

Duncan says EIT graduates stand out because they arrive with practical experience as well as technical knowledge.

“They join us with practical experience, not just the theory, which means they can get up and running from day one.

“They also come in with a fresh set of eyes, so they tend to ask questions that someone who has been here for a while might not. That helps to modernise our business.”

Among the Hawke’s Bay Technologies staff who have studied at EIT are IT Service Desk Manager Daniel Howard, Service Desk Engineer Zachariah Hull and IT Engineer Cameron Smith.

Zachariah says EIT’s practical learning environment prepared him well for the workplace.

“You really do learn to do the things you’re going to do in your job. It’s very technical and practical. You get here and think, ‘This is exactly what I learned.’ Not all the papers I completed were related to this specific role, but the foundational knowledge I gained helped me step into it much more easily.”

Duncan believes investing in EIT graduates benefits both individual businesses and the wider region.

“Taking on interns and graduates means you can build your own talent pool rather than always competing for skilled workers already in the workforce.”

He encourages other employers to consider partnering with EIT.

“Don’t hesitate. You get access to good, local, down-to-earth, grounded and practical people. EIT has been great at listening to what we and our industry need. It’s a great vehicle to grow your workforce.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/21/eit-delivers-the-skills-hawkes-bay-businesses-need/

The Foreign Ministers of New Zealand and the Philippines have announced a Comprehensive Partnership today.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Philippine Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa P. Lazaro formalised the Comprehensive Partnership during a meeting in Manila, while also discussing priority bilateral and regional issues. 

“New Zealand and the Philippines are close friends and trusted partners on the world stage – and today we turn this friendship into concrete action,” Mr Peters says.

“Elevating our relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership signals the importance we place on working together to support a stable, rules-based Indo-Pacific.”

The Comprehensive Partnership provides a framework for deeper collaboration across four pillars: political engagement; defence, security, and maritime cooperation; trade and economic ties; and people-to-people links.

“The Philippines is a dynamic partner in Southeast Asia – a regional powerhouse of 113 million people, and one of the region’s fastest-growing economies. This year, New Zealand and the Philippines are also celebrating 60 years of diplomatic relations – making this a timely moment to elevate our relationship.”

At the conclusion of their meeting, Mr Peters and Foreign Secretary Lazaro released a Joint Statement and a Comprehensive Partnership Roadmap outlining priority areas of bilateral cooperation. 

New Zealand and the Philippines also signed two new cooperation arrangements today to give effect to the Comprehensive Partnership on education and geothermal energy.

During his bilateral programme in Manila today, Mr Peters is also meeting Philippines Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and attending an event to promote New Zealand’s growing education cooperation with the Philippines. 

From this evening, Mr Peters’ focus in Manila turns to Association of Southeast Asia Nations (ASEAN)-related events and engagements.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/21/new-zealand-and-philippines-form-comprehensive-partnership/

20 July 2026

Nominations are now open for up to five positions on the New Zealand Mining Board of Examiners.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/20/nominations-open-for-new-zealand-mining-board-of-examiners/

Introduction

Thank you for being here this afternoon.

Mr. President, Members of the New Zealand First Party Board, Ministers and Members of Parliament, delegates of New Zealand First nationwide, Ladies and Gentlemen.

Over the past two days we have held our thirty-third annual convention, and it was this exact weekend, in July 1993, when the New Zealand First Party began. 

To all those members who began our political party thirty-three years ago, under a First Past the Post electoral system, a genuine sentiment of gratitude to you all.

Over the decades your dedication has remained steadfast, and we have grown to become the most successful new political party in modern New Zealand history.

We salute you here today as the next generation, together with a former one, taking this party forward to new levels of success.

Serious Times Require Experience & Prudent Judgement

The world is in a troubled state, the worst we can remember. And yet, having returned last week from Singapore and Japan, we are hopeful, because our discussions were gripped by how our friends, like us, see opportunity amidst so much turmoil.

We haven’t needed lectures from others to act; no, we’ve been seizing chances to advance New Zealand’s economic and security relationships with energy ever since this term began. Our 80 plus overseas trips have not been to collect passport stamps, but to enhance existing agreements, or create new ones, whether in our region, the Pacific, or in Asia, South America, Europe and the Nordics.

In country after country, we have learned first-hand that they want to do more with us, they too see opportunity, and our job is to make the most of them.

That said, do not underestimate just how disruptive the geo-strategic environment is. It’s a hugely complex and challenging period we are facing. This places an enormous premium on experience, and through experience, good judgements that protect New Zealand’s vital interests.

We take the world as it is, not as some cloistered varsity lecturer or woke leftie wants it to be. The record shows that we have exercised sound judgement when it has mattered most. 

With experience comes prudence, and with diplomacy comes opportunity, and that is why we are guardedly optimistic that New Zealand will emerge from the serious global disruptions in a strong position to exploit every opportunity that we create or that comes our way.               

And The Time is Now

New Zealand First has always been the greatest challenge to blind ideology, to social elitism, and to the status quo.

We, from the very beginning, have been for one country, one people, one law, one flag, regardless of gender, race, or religion.

We have been for protecting our nation’s sovereignty and national interest, protecting our unique role in the world, protecting our nation’s pride in who we are, where we have come from, and our traditional Kiwi values.

We fight for the hardworking blue-collar Kiwi battler, who just wants the chance to help build a country they are proud of.

We have always been, and always will be, for common sense.

Thirty-three years ago we created this party with a vision. A vision of hope and a heart to fight for the belief of every New Zealander for the chance of a better future for our children and grandchildren. 

Our country is not just a place, it is who we are as people. 

It is a set of values, stitched together across time. It is never complete – it grows. 

It grows into what we, as a New Zealanders, together, chose it to be. 

And the question is, ‘what do we want our country to be?’

We can no longer continue to accept the status quo who represent the establishment, who want nothing more than to protect the power they think they have, and maintain the separation of the ordinary kiwi and the elite. 

In this election, we have a rare chance to change the shape of parliament for the better, and in doing so, to reshape our country the way you want it.

We can choose to continue down the path we have been on for over forty years, continuing to watch the swing of the pendulum where blue or red just wait long enough and then yell “it’s our turn now’. 

Only to then proceed to change very little, apart from continuing to manage the decline.

Or, we can make a choice with our future generations in mind, take back control from the Wellington 

Bluesky bubble, take back control from the ‘way it’s always been’, take back control from those who choose to be a CV politician, where they are here one day, run out of gas, and are gone the next – taking with them a rolodex of international job opportunities, speaking circuits, or book tours, looking back over their shoulder at New Zealand’s decline. 

New Zealand First, from our launch thirty-three years ago, has been battling that elitist status quo. 

No one can deny that. When others wouldn’t raise a finger, we have raised the roof.

We will never give up that fight against the elitest status quo, and this election is where we can turn it on its head.

In November we have the real chance to show the power of MMP. We can move away from what our system used to be and make a real change to how our country is governed and who is representing you in government.

What we are asking you to do, is to give us the tools so we can finish the job. 

We cannot fly a microlight to the moon, but if you give us an Artimus, we will reach the stars.

We have a real chance to change the path we are on as a country, give hope a chance, and make 

New Zealand great again, like it once was when we were the number one democracy in the world.

The time is now.

We Are Breaking the Shackles of the Status Quo

New Zealand First has achieved a lot over the four governments that we have been a part of, punching well above our electoral weight.

We are the Party that raised the minimum wage for workers, not once, but three times in 2005, 2017, and again in this current government.

We are the Party that increased our frontline police numbers, not once, but three times, in 2005 by 1000, in 2017 by 1800, and again in this government we will have shortly completed our coalition agreement to increase our frontline police numbers by 500.

We are the Party who demanded in our coalition agreement to introduce Coward Punch laws and tougher penalties for those who assault our First Responders.

We are the Party who fought for the SuperGold Card for our seniors in 2005, repealed the pernicious surtax, raised super to 66% of median wage, and now making the SuperGold Card a form of physical ID.

We are the Party who brought in free healthcare for children under the age of 14.

We are the Party who brought in pay parity for primary school teachers.

We are the Party who have invested billions into our struggling regions with the Provincial Growth

Fund in 2017, and again this term with the Regional Infrastructure Fund.

We are the Party that has rebuilt our regional rail network after 2017, and again this term with much needed investment into the once neglected system.

We are the Party that has increased funding to our great St John Ambulance service.

We are the Party that has a bill to let the local ratepayers decide about fluoride in their water, instead of central government ramming it down your throat. 

We demanded a second Covid Inquiry, but sadly other parties watered that purpose down. Why?

Because they are all implicated. 

We are the only Party that has called for a new select committee inquiry into those who were injured by the vaccine – and being compensated for it. We are not going to let the matter be swept under the carpet by incompetent ministers.

We stopped all work on He Puapua, we stopped the WHO imposing International Health Regulations without New Zealand’s consent.

We repealed the Natural Health Products legislation.

We have taken men out of women’s sports.

We stopped the use of puberty blockers in children.

We are making English an official language, that will stop the nonsense that led to the CRL renaming the Britomart Station “Waitamata” and the Mt Eden Station “Mangawhau” without seeking a mandate, we are fighting against that woke ideology that has pervaded our country over the past ten years.

The list goes on and on.

The width and breadth of our accomplishments is vast and has influenced and positively affected every sector, every region, every part of New Zealanders lives.

But it’s not just the policies that our party has accomplished. It is about the common sense, experience, and the values that we bring to government.

Currently, we are fighting against the Gene Tech Bill. 

We are fighting against the use of Digital ID.

And the ban on social media for under sixteen-year-olds.

But if we as a country want to truly achieve more, to see more of those great policies, to see those values and principles of nationalism, patriotism, conservatism in the true leadership of our great country, then New Zealand First needs you – to give us the tools we need to get the job done.

We need to break the shackles of the status quo, we need to stop accepting the swing of the managed decline.

Pepsi or Coke Pendulum Swing

We need to take this unique chance in November, to stop the monotonous “Pepsi or Coke pendulum swing”, and give our country the chance to be truly great again. 

We are asking you to Party Vote New Zealand First.

One local example, Labour made all the promises to build the Mill Road four-lane corridor, then did nothing about it.

National’s MP based in Papakura then said “We have a city, the size of Napier, being built at Drury and still, this Labour government thinks a cycle way will be sufficient.”

Then, National has just continued to delay this project once again.

Pepsi and Coke have promised and done nothing.

New Zealand First, the party of the Provincial Growth Fund, and Regional Infrastructure Fund, the rebuilder of the Rail Network across the country, is committing, as an election promise, to get the Mill Road corridor built as a priority.

The Problems with the FTA

New Zealand First is against the Indian Free Trade Agreement, for good reason. It is not the ‘great deal’ that has been portrayed by other political parties.

We aren’t against free trade agreements. 

It is written in the New Zealand First coalition agreement to specifically prioritise an FTA with India. 

But, what we are against are bad Free Trade Agreements that are not in New Zealand’s best interests.

If you talk about the good parts of the Indian FTA, you have to talk about the bad parts – which other political parties are conveniently ignoring, brushing off, or passing the buck. 

New Zealand First has highlighted from day one the reasons this deal is bad.

We stated from day one that this deal has unprecedented immigration settings including uncapped student numbers with working rights and 5000 visa holders entering New Zealand able to bring in families with them. This is in addition to other uncapped immigration work visa pathways within the agreement. 

The ultimate question and problem we have is why has migration been made one of centrepieces of what is meant to be a free trade deal? Why has this become a free migration deal?

There are also two clauses that are included in the FTA that no one can give an explanation as to why. 

The UN co-governance framework UNDRIP, the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of

Indigenous People, is in the agreement. This is the provision that created He Puapua.

The Paris Agreement clause is also in the FTA. The agreement that will see us send up to $22 billion overseas in a pointless and futile attempt to reduce our 0.17% CO2 emissions in the face of just four countries China, US, Russia and India producing 60% of the worlds emissions – and who produce more CO2 in a day than we do in a year.

If it is in the coalition agreement that UNDRIP is not recognised, and the Act Party is supposedly against UNDRIP and Paris Accord, why are these clauses in the FTA that both National and Act have supported?

What is more, New Zealand must promote $33 billion of investment into India over just the next 15 years, otherwise India can claw back the agreement. Billions of our dollars into a foreign country when we are desperate for investment here in New Zealand. 

We heard last weekend, when Prime Minister Modi himself said, not just once, but twice, that this was a “commitment to invest”, yet we were told by National that it was just “an aspiration”.

Do you remember John Key when he told us all not to worry because UNDRIP was “just aspirational”?

Luxon said Modi was wrong, and Hipkins washed his hands of all responsibility for this mess of different interpretations.

Surely the New Zealand people need an explanation. 

If, since 2012 New Zealand has only invested $4.2 Billion into China through that FTA, then how are we going to find $33 Billion over the next 15 years for India? Riddle me that.

To get to this point where there is such a difference in interpretation, after this deal has been signed, is a real worry. 

What is worse, is when Hipkins clearly understood that there was a very serious potential for this different interpretation of the deal to badly effect New Zealand businesses, he warned those businesses that there are “risks” with what was in the FTA. This is after Hipkins supported it.

Hipkins is now putting all that responsibility and risk that he has allowed to occur by supporting this FTA, onto New Zealand businesses. 

Why wasn’t the interpretation clear before the FTA was signed by National and before Act and Labour supported it?

National brushes it off saying ‘India is wrong’ and Labour is washing their hands of all the risk they have both created. 

This is a recipe for disaster.

Astonishingly, Luxon told media that the good news is he spoke to a New Zealand manufacturing business who told him that they are already planning to put manufacturing facilities into India.

Since when was it a good thing that New Zealand companies are moving employment and production overseas? 

Do you see how backward this has all become?

Are you seeing now why New Zealand First has opposed this FTA from the time we saw the real detail?

The Left Must Not Win

We must not forget what we inherited just three short years ago from an economically destructive and morally bereft Labour government, that left this country in a precarious and impossible position.

We inherited a broken economy, a fractured society, and a country on a road to social disaster. That road was paved with the unbelievable incompetence from the last Labour government. 

New Zealand’s debt skyrocketed, there were multiple fiscal policies with no allocated funding, racist co-governance and woke ideology had spread into legislation and throughout the public sector, universities, government departments, and schools. 

The left had simply run roughshod over our country.

Labour left us:

• A crumbling, underfunded, overwhelmed Health System.

An education system that had seen:

• a record number of children failing basic standards and truancy rate,
• an unmanageable number of schools without adequate classrooms, and
• many in the teaching force under enormous strain.

A Defence Force that had lost more than a third of its personnel over the three years.

An undermanned Police Force:

• haemorrhaging officers to Australia,
• massive shortages in recruitment,
• massive increases in crime, and
• youth ramraids and violence that was simply out of control.

Gang numbers that ballooned over the three years.

A cost-of-living crisis.

A housing crisis with skyrocketing prices and unprecedented numbers living in emergency hotels. 

Remember the Labour promise 100,000 new Kiwi-Build houses in ten years?

They left us a rate of child poverty even higher than when in 2021 Jacinda Ardern made herself the ‘Minister of Child Poverty’.

A mental health system that had seen more and more young people suffering with no help.

Crumbling infrastructure around the country with no plan, no funding, and no idea.

An unprecedented, uncontrollable level of immigration – over 133,000 entering in 2023 alone.

And during Covid, Labour left large numbers of people ostracised, demonised, shutdown and shutout, ignored and cancelled – all because those people fought for their right to say ‘no, we disagree.’

And they are hoping we have all forgotten about all of that. 

They are now actively banking on working with the wacky Greens and racist mess of the Māori Party. 

Labour care more about the seats that will give them a road to power, rather than the danger of who it is that will fill those seats. 

The Labour Party of just twenty years ago would never entertain working with the likes of those in the current Greens or Māori Party. Those two parties are self-confessed Marxists and separatists, who have unworkable dangerous policies, and care more about globalist woke ideology and geopolitical wars happening ten thousand miles away than understanding the real world here in New Zealand.

A Labour, Greens, Māori Party government would be an unmitigated disaster for our country. 

The reality is, Labour long ago deserted the traditional blue-collar workers of New Zealand.

The movement of the party to the far left has caused longtime Labour voters to feel abandoned by a party that once stood for the ‘ordinary hard-working kiwi’. 

Instead, Labour now cares more about ‘social justice’ issues, socialist economics, and cultural separatism. 

That is why we ruled out working with Labour before the last election and why we are again ruling out working with the Labour Party in 2026.

New Zealand Needs Bold Policies

New Zealand First has already announced a number of election policies that we believe are needed to affect real change in the direction of the country, drive down the cost of living, and to secure a future for kiwis.

We have announced policies to break up the power companies, split the supermarket duopoly, re-establish a competitive state owned bank, return mining royalties created in the regions back to the regions, we announced our KiwiSaver policy of making it compulsory with automatic sign-up at birth $1000 kickstart – which by the way we announced a month before National decided to steal it and announce it as its own.

We announced a policy to establish a $100 billion Future Fund that will invest in thirty-year infrastructure plan for our country – a fund that is separate from the influence of politicians and run similar to the highly successful Temasek model in Singapore.

We have also announced that we will pull out of the Paris Agreement that is senselessly hamstringing our economy.

And we have most recently announced a policy to ensure that only citizens are allowed to vote in our country. 

Unbelievably, right now someone who has been in New Zealand for just twelve months can vote on who is in government, who is in local council, and vote on referendum issues that change the social fabric of our country. Over voting rules are the most lax in the world. 

New Zealand First will fix this.

These polices will change the status quo, reform our country, and put New Zealand back on a pathway of prosperity. 

They are bold policies. But bold policies are needed to create a fair playing field in the power, food, and banking systems so we can make real change to kiwis’ lives, drive down the cost of living, give kiwis a fair go, and take back control of our country.

Election 2026 Campaign Policy Announcement

We are announcing another bold campaign policy today.

One of the most concerning issues we are currently facing as a nation is the existential threat to fuel security and fuel supply.
We have seen the immediate effects of being isolated and totally dependent on international supply lines of oil and gas, and the dramatic and costly effects it has on New Zealand’s sustainability, planning, and future certainty.
We are totally susceptible to the geopolitical choices made by other nations in the cost, supply, and certainty we need as a country to survive, today and into the future.
This needs to change.
Other parties want to ‘tinker around the edges’ with solar panel plans – which does next to nothing to address fuel and gas insecurity; we say New Zealand has one of the greatest potentials in the world to have ownership of our own supply of oil and natural gas.New Zealand potentially holds Norway-scale energy prospects in our offshore basins and that potential has never been accurately surveyed or characterised with modern tools.
If we identify those reserves in our basins, we will have the ability to utilise the natural resources we have to make our country secure, prosperous, and to build real resilience.
Analysis shows that the odds of New Zealand having a major commercial discovery in our basins is well above ninety percent. And most likely, we hold something that would be transformational for our country, and potentially the equivalent of Norway in scale.
We can no longer ignore this potential we have in our deep sea basins.
This is about future-proofing New Zealand in a world of uncertainty.
This is about making the investment now to build fuel security and fuel resilience for New Zealand’s future. We cannot afford to wait any longer.
New Zealand First will be campaigning on an initial investment of $1 billion over the term of government, into a ‘National Subsurface Development Survey’ – to identify and create one national dataset across energy, geothermal and CO₂ storage sites, and create the framework for New Zealand to develop those sites, extract those resources, and build our country’s resilience and prosperous economic future.
New Zealand has ten prospective basins with world-class potential, the Great South Basin has had eight wells drilled in its entire history and the deeper horizons are untested. The existing seismic data is two technology generations old, covering only a fraction of our subsurface inheritance.
Namibia has made the discoveries that can now transform its country and economy after a focused data acquisition campaign which began in 2022.
In under a decade, Guyana went from first discovery to South America’s third-largest producer.

We have that potential here in New Zealand.
Since the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz, capital is now moving into politically stable basins elsewhere in the world, and for it to move it needs modern data. The reality is, survey costs right now sit at structural lows.
The policy is a game changer.
Under this plan we would expect to see first results within twelve months and convert that potential into knowledge that global capital can bid against. This is at a time when we are in the midst of the largest basin-capital movement in a generation.
Within the first twenty-four months the highest-ranked basins will have surveying completed with wells identified, and the first physical proof that reserves exist.
Potentially within just six years, we will have a pathway forward for our country to own and control our own supply of energy that we can use domestically and export around the world.
New Zealand First would utilise these resources to transform our economy and our future.
We would set fair terms while explorers carry the risk of proving the fields — and over time place a royalty well above 50% on all extractions as production matures.
We would use these finds to end the gas shortfalls that have sent power prices through the roof, and to drive fuel costs down locally, export oil and gas, and establish a Norwegian-model sovereign fund.
We will transform any discovery into permanent national wealth and invest in regional industry.
New Zealand has natural resources that are there, ready to be utilised to transform our country.
This is about New Zealand’s economic sovereignty and security, we cannot wait and continue to be beholden to international interests and decision making.
We will find those energy reserves, we will extract them, and what we find, we will use to make our country prosperous again.

Conclusion

Ladies and gentlemen, we are all here because we love our country, and we are proud of it.

True democracy is a rare flower in the history of humanity.

We have inherited a free country that our forebears fought and died for, and it’s our job to preserve it.

But only if we are proud of what we have inherited can we come together and move forward to shape the vision of our country’s future.

We live in a country that, at its core, traditional New Zealand values once saw us amongst the world’s leaders – hard work, fair pay, valuing our citizenship, building a sense of community, and knowing who we are as kiwis.

We must remember, New Zealand is the beneficiary of Western values, democracy, and the rule of law. And the advancement and enhancement of those principles have only occurred in those societies that have united together as one people – and who celebrate their nationhood instead of perpetuating division.

We must take hold of new opportunities and embrace hope for a new direction. Because the past is now over, the future is coming, and New Zealand needs to be ready.

There is a lot of uncertainty around the world and at home, but we must keep hope alive that, with hard work and perseverance, tomorrow will be better.

New Zealand First is nationalist, patriotic, and socially conservative.

We are proud to not only stand for those values, but to fight for them. 

Times are tough. But we are fighting for you. And we will never give up.

We must not lose sight of how far we have come on this long road to recovery.

And, if you give us the tools, we will finish the job.

It hasn’t been easy – but things in life worth doing – are never easy.  

It is what will build the character of our country.

We must never forget that challenge.

We must never stop believing in New Zealand.

That is our vision and that is our mission.

To protect, to save, and to restore New Zealand’s place at the top of the world.

By putting New Zealand and New Zealanders first.

We are asking you to join us – and Party Vote New Zealand First.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/20/winston-peters-hope-and-a-better-tomorrow/

The Government is acting to maintain New Zealand’s ongoing domestic cement manufacturing capacity and ensure our economy remains resilient to global supply chain shocks.

“We have agreed to grant Golden Bay Cement (GBC) up to $60m to continue cement manufacturing at its Whangarei plant, maintain domestic clinker manufacturing capability, and undertake at least $150m in investments needed to support cost-effective domestic cement production through to at least 2040.”

“Ministers were advised that due to rising costs Fletcher Building Limited was considering closure of the GBC clinker facility in Whangarei, in favour of switching to a cheaper import-only model. 

“The Golden Bay factory is New Zealand’s only fully integrated cement manufacturing plant and plays a vital role in our economic supply-chain. 

“In May Cabinet carefully considered the case for targeted, time-limited financial support to secure its ongoing operation.   

“Ultimately the Government determined that losing domestic cement production would leave us massively exposed to potential global supply disruptions. Cement has no practical substitutes. It is needed for the building of homes, hospitals, schools, roads, and other nationally significant infrastructure.  Any reductions in its availability could bring essential construction and infrastructure development, and the economic activity they support, to a standstill.

“Cabinet therefore agreed to enter negotiations to keep the GBC plant operating, with a limited envelope of funds set aside for this purpose and strict conditions for support. The agreement we are announcing today meets those conditions within the funding envelope determined by Cabinet.   

“Our Government did not take this decision lightly. Before entering negotiations we undertook a rigorous supply chain assessment of the role domestically produced cement plays in the economy, analysed the underlying financial factors at-play, and gave careful consideration to potential precedent risks. Ultimately, we concluded that this is an exceptional case, which meets the very high bar needed to justify taxpayer support.  

“As part of our deliberations, we commissioned an independent open-book financial assessment of the GBC operation.  This concluded that there were binding constraints on the financial viability of domestic cement production, primarily due to emissions costs. 

“While we considered alternative forms of regulatory relief, we were concerned to take a lowest-cost approach that did not undermine the effective operation of the Emissions Trading Scheme.  The agreed approach strikes the right balance, preserving a strategically significant domestic capability without creating a precedent for wider support, or undermining the integrity of the ETS.

“Under the terms of the deal, GBC must maintain domestic manufacture of cement until at least 31 December 2040, commit at least $150m of its own investment, maintain jobs, and submit to additional reporting and auditing requirements, with the Government able to claw back funds if obligations are not met.

“In an uncertain world, the Government has acted to secure New Zealand’s national economic resilience.” 

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/20/domestic-cement-production-secured/

Police have charged a man after locating a large amount of drugs and cash during a traffic stop in North Dunedin last night. 

Around 10.30pm, Police saw a suspicious vehicle driving around the North Dunedin student area, where hundreds of students were believed to be celebrating Re-O’ Week. 

The driver stopped on Dundas Street and when officers approached, they were greeted by the smell of cannabis wafting from the car, leading to a search of its interior. As a result, Police located and seized amounts of cocaine, MDMA, ketamine, cannabis, and a large quantity of cash. 

Senior Sergeant Adelle Williams says getting these drugs off the street is a great result for the community. 

“Majority of the drugs seized was already divided, packaged, and ready for sale. 

“The amount of social harm this could have caused is significant. I am really pleased that we were able to intercept this before it got into the hands of people in our community,” says Senior Sergeant Williams. 

The 26-year-old man is due in Dunedin District Court today, charged with possession of cocaine for supply, possession of cannabis for supply, and two counts of possession of drugs for supply. 

“Police will continue to work hard to disrupt the supply of drugs in our communities, and we urge anyone with information on, or suspicions of, this type of offending to please contact us.” 

For drug related offending, or any other criminal or suspicious behaviour, happening now please call 111 immediately. 

Non-urgent information can be reported through 105, either online or over the phone, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/17/drugs-seized-following-traffic-stop-dunedin/

New figures reveal further year-on-year improvements in the number of New Zealanders moving off benefit and into work.

Minister of Social Development and Employment Louise Upston says the numbers are encouraging.

“In the year ending June 2026, there were 86,544 exits from a main benefit into work – an increase of 5772 from the year ending June 2025,” Louise Upston says.

“Today’s figures are similar to previous statistics released in March this year, which showed 5580 more people leaving a main benefit for work during the year ending March 2026 compared to the same period the year before.

“Year-on-year quarterly results are also showing a similar trend, with 21,261 exits from a main benefit into work – 1665 more than the June 2025 quarter.”

Today’s figures reflect the typical seasonal patterns for this time of year, with a small (1 per cent) increase in the number of people receiving a working age main benefit and fewer exits compared to the last quarter.

“We generally see a small bounce back from the March quarter, which normally has higher exits into work with the beginning of the school year and work picking up post holidays, so year-on-year comparisons are often a more reliable indicator of job market trends,” Louise Upston says.

“Economic conditions are challenging, but today’s figures are promising for the job market and job seekers.

“Our Traffic Light System continues to help jobseekers stay on track with their job search responsibilities and seize every opportunity available.

“MSD’s Kōrero Mahi seminars are helping thousands of jobseekers take practical steps toward sustainable employment through targeted employment support – including advice about finding the right job, CV support, or being referred to job vacancies, training, or case management.

“Throughout the quarter ending June 2026 more than 16,000 people attended MSD’s Kōrero Mahi – Let’s Talk Work seminars, which are targeted towards people who are new to benefit and have full-time work obligations,” Louise Upston says.

“ChamberWorks – a partnership between New Zealand Chambers of Commerce and MSD – helps connect businesses with pre-screened candidates and recruitment support, delivering a pipeline of talent and jobs for those on benefit.

“MSD partners directly with businesses also.

“An example of that is Ventia, which has worked with the Northern Jobs and Skills Hub to support school leavers and job seekers into seasonal and full-time employment pathways, developing local talent, strengthening workforce retention and reducing reliance on temporary labour. In 2025, more than 100 people were placed in jobs with Ventia, up from 36 in 2024.

“Other examples include the Ara Jobs and Skills Hub, which trains and connects people to jobs across the Auckland Airport precinct. MSD has also worked closely with SkyCity to help people gain employment opportunities upon the recent opening of the New Zealand International Convention Centre.

“By helping businesses to thrive, driving income growth, and providing practical support to help get jobseekers into work, this government is committed to supporting New Zealanders towards independence.”

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/16/latest-figures-continue-year-on-year-increase-in-jobseekers-finding-work/

The Foreign Ministers of Fiji and New Zealand have signed a refreshed Duavata Partnership, outlining the relationship’s priorities for the next five years.

“The signing of our refreshed Duavata Partnership demonstrates New Zealand’s continued commitment to our strong friendship with Fiji and its people, and to deepening cooperation in areas of mutual benefit,” Mr Peters says.

“New Zealand and Fiji are natural partners, with decades-long ties spanning culture, sport, business, tourism, education, and people-to-people links.”

During their meeting, the two Ministers spoke about New Zealand’s interest in exploratory discussions with Fiji and Australia over the Ocean of Peace Alliance and the shared goal of boosting two-way trade to NZ$2 billion by 2030.

While in Auckland, Mr Ditoka will also attend the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership Ministerial Meeting hosted by Trade Minister, Hon Todd McClay, as a guest of New Zealand.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/16/new-zealand-renews-partnership-with-fiji/

Headline: Recycling Week 2026 Builds Momentum

Recycling Week 2026 (19–25 October) has nearly 500 organisations already registered, highlighting the continued growth of New Zealand’s largest waste minimisation and recycling education campaign.

The post Recycling Week 2026 Builds Momentum first appeared on PR.co.nz.

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/15/recycling-week-2026-builds-momentum/

Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/07/15/disabled-communities-help-shape-climate-solutions-in-auckland/