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Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Consultation on the Liquidity Management Review opens

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Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

10 September 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is consulting on how we conduct Open Market Operations and are seeking input on design considerations for a Committed Liquidity Facility.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) manages the level of liquidity (settlement cash) in the New Zealand banking system to ensure short-term market interest rates trade near the Official Cash Rate (OCR) and that there is sufficient liquidity for payments and settlements.

We have been reviewing our liquidity management framework following changes to the liquidity environment arising from the policy response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Concurrently, we have been reviewing our prudential liquidity policy which is to become a Liquidity Standard as part of the core standards under the Deposit Takers Act.

“Our Open Market Operations are a critical tool for us to manage liquidity as we maintain an ample settlement cash environment. It’s important that we design these operations in a way that delivers effective monetary policy implementation, while also facilitating market liquidity and supporting financial stability,” Financial Markets Director Adam Richardson says.

A Committed Liquidity Facility is necessary for deposit takers to meet their liquidity requirements while also maintaining a sufficient supply of these assets in the market for other investors. “We want to ensure that the size, fees and operationalisation of the Committed Liquidity Facility will serve the overall objectives of the forthcoming Liquidity Standard whilst also supporting the market liquidity of liquid assets,” Mr Richardson says.

This consultation builds upon previous work, including speeches and Bulletins given as part of the Liquidity Management Review. Respondents to the consultation may choose to comment on one or both parts of the consultation and whichever questions are relevant to them.

This consultation is open until 31 October.

You can find out more about the consultation on the Citizen Space website: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=c56a8c1b07&e=f3c68946f8

More information

Liquidity Management Review consultation paper: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=22103ebfc4&e=f3c68946f8

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Update 5 – Critical incident, Waitomo + media advisory

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police are today continuing the search and examination of what is believed to be the main campsite of Tom Phillips and his children in recent months.

The area is difficult to access, well-hidden and highlights the challenging environment the family used as their base.

Police have released new images from this wider site – approximately 200 metres away, across some difficult terrain from where the younger children were found on Monday.

Detective Senior Sergeant Andrew Saunders says Police staff are working in steep and uneven terrain to document evidence from the scene.

“It’s a very grim, dimly-lit area, surrounded by dense bush. The tent was well covered and dry.

“We are currently looking at a number of items at the site. Aside from the burglaries we are now able to link to Tom, it is apparent that he had outside help.”

The Police vehicles and the quad bike from the scene of Monday’s shooting were removed from Te Anga Road last night.

Police expect to continue their examination of the area today and tomorrow.

The officer injured on Monday continues to recover in Waikato Hospital and is being supported by the Police whanau.

“I want to take the opportunity to thank all our staff involved in Operation Curly at different times over the past four years, in particular our core investigation team.

“It has been a challenging operation, but I am relieved and delighted that we have been able to return the children to safety.

“Operation Curly was an operation focused on locating Tom and the safe return of the children.

“As the police work enters a new phase, our Operation Curly naturally comes to a conclusion. While no one wanted it to end in these circumstances, it is highly satisfying as an investigator that the children have been safely returned,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Saunders.

“We wish to thank the public for the ongoing support of Police, and in particular for the kindness and care people have shown in respecting the children’s privacy.”

ENDS

Media advisory

Media are advised that Police will hold a stand-up today regarding Monday’s critical incident.

Detective Senior Sergeant Andy Saunders will speak to media at 1:30pm in central Hamilton.

We ask those media interested in attending to RSVP to media@police.govt.nz(link sends e-mail).

Further details will be provided to registered media.

Issued by Police Media Centre

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CORRECTION: Man appears in court following death of woman, Paraparaumu

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police would like to clarify the court details around the man arrested following the death of a woman in Paraparaumu last night.

The man is 31 and is due in Porirua District Court today charged with assault and breach of protection order.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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Advisory: Police presence around Freemans Bay

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Source: New Zealand Police

Police are advising the public about additional Police staff deployed in Freeman’s Bay today for a planned exercise.

Tactical Police staff are deployed near the Auckland City Police Hub, off College Hill.

There is no ongoing incident and no cause for concern.

Police will be carrying out the exercise throughout the afternoon.

We thank the community for their understanding.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Man appears in court following death of woman, Paraparaumu

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Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins:

Police have launched an investigation following the death of a woman at an address in Paraparaumu overnight.

Police were called to the address on Chums Road at around 9:50pm last night to a report of an assault.

Despite the best efforts of Police and other emergency services, the woman has sadly died at the scene.

A 48-year-old man, known to the woman, was arrested last night and is expected to appear in Wellington District Court today charged with assault and breach of protection order.

Police would like to advise the public that there will be an increased Police presence in the area as the investigation continues and that we believe there is no ongoing risk to the public.

Police are also working to support the family of the victim and offer our sincere condolences.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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First supercritical geothermal site chosen

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Source: New Zealand Government

Land within Rotokawa Geothermal Reservoir in the Taupō Volcanic Zone has been selected as a preferred site for New Zealand’s first supercritical geothermal exploration, with design work already underway to develop the first well, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.

“This early-stage exploration could help prove the viability of supercritical geothermal energy, which has the potential to deliver several times the power output of conventional geothermal wells. This groundbreaking work could be a game changer for securing New Zealand’s future energy needs,” Mr Jones says. 

The Rotokawa site was selected following extensive geological and geophysical study by Earth Sciences New Zealand, and risk assessments to confirm its suitability. 

“Tauhara North No.2 Trust is guardian of the Rotokawa geothermal resources and have deep cultural and historical connection to the area. Its people have used geothermal energy for cooking, bathing, and healing for generations,” Mr Jones says. 

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between Tauhara North No.2 Trust, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, and Mercury NZ which operates the Rotokawa geothermal power station, to explore the potential of supercritical geothermal energy at the site. Earth Sciences NZ is contributing technical and scientific expertise. 

As part of the work, a multi-disciplinary design team comprising local and international experts, is also being assembled to lead work across regulatory approvals, design, risk assessment, geoscientific modelling, engineering, procurement, drilling and asset management.

The Coalition Government has committed up to $60 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support the development of the first well, with plans for two additional wells as part of a broader programme.

The first phases of the project include pre-feasibility work studies, well design, development of a business case and validation of the preferred site. Drilling is expected to begin in 18-24 months.

“Three exploratory wells are the minimum needed to understand the energy resource. New Zealand has pioneered geothermal development in the past with government-led geothermal exploration during 1950s and 1970s. During this time, more than 40 wells were drilled across the motu to explore geothermal resources,” Mr Jones says.

“Drilling into supercritical zones means going 1km-3km deeper into the Earth and managing higher pressures and temperatures than current conventional generation. This is one of the most technically demanding frontiers in geothermal technologies and science,” Mr Jones says.

“Safely converting and commercialising supercritical geothermal energy is the next step. The Government is backing this groundbreaking project which aims to unlock transformative, clean, renewable energy over the long term to strengthen our energy security and be transformative for the country and internationally,” Mr Jones says.

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Inside New Zealand’s Largest Artificial Grass Range with Urban Turf Solutions

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Source: Press Release Service

Headline: Inside New Zealand’s Largest Artificial Grass Range with Urban Turf Solutions

Explore New Zealand’s largest artificial grass range with Urban Turf Solutions. 40+ varieties for low-maintenance Kiwi lawns & landscaping.

The post Inside New Zealand’s Largest Artificial Grass Range with Urban Turf Solutions first appeared on PR.co.nz.

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Police urge vigilance after couple lose tens of thousands

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Source: New Zealand Police

Whangārei Police are urging the public to be alert to fraudsters targeting trusting members of the community for their money.

An investigation is in the early stages after an elderly couple had tens of thousands of dollars taken from accounts over the weekend.

Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei Area Investigations Manager, says the couple were contacted about replacing their banking cards.

“The fraudster has managed to convince them into providing pin numbers and leaving their eftpos cards in the mailbox for collection,” he says.

“Sadly, over the weekend tens of thousands of dollars has been taken out of their accounts.”

Police received a report on Monday, which is now under investigation.

Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer is calling on the community to be extremely vigilant.

“It’s appalling behaviour where trusting members of the community have been deceived to the point their hard-earned money is being taken.

“The last thing we need right now is other people in the community falling victim to this offending.

“I’m asking families and neighbours to check in on each other, please be aware that this happening.”

Police advise anyone who is contacted in these circumstances by potential scammers to not engage.

Hang up and never hand over personal or banking details, Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says.

“The authorities and banks will never call you asking to hand over banking details.

“If you’re contacted, hang up immediately and instead contact the bank yourself.”

Police would also like to hear from anyone who may have been contacted in these circumstances, or who has handed over bank cards in these circumstances.

You can make a report online or call 105.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Minister marks World Suicide Prevention Day

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Source: New Zealand Government

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today joined MATES in Construction and ASB for World Suicide Prevention Day for the launch of the Construction Industry Wellbeing Survey.

“The theme of today is ‘Changing the narrative on suicide’ this means reducing stigma, reinforcing that it’s okay to not be okay, and encouraging people to ask for help. A simple check-in with a mate can make a real difference,” Mr Doocey says.

“New Zealand continues to face stubbornly high suicide rates. Last year, 617 people died by suspected suicide. Behind that number are grieving families, friends, colleagues, and communities.

“In June, we launched a new Suicide Prevention Action Plan with an increased investment of $16 million per year, bringing the total to $36 million.

“The plan has 21 new health actions and 13 new cross-agency actions to improve access to suicide prevention and postvention supports, grow a workforce that is able to support those at risk of, or affected by suicide, and strengthen our focus on prevention and early intervention.

“We’ve launched Top Up a new wellbeing promotion campaign, begun rollout of crisis recovery cafes and funded peer support workers in emergency departments. 

“Whether it’s you, your child, a friend, or a family member, reaching out for support, this Government is committed to ensuring support is there.

“Everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention. New Zealand has come a long way in becoming more open to talking about mental health, and we are backing this up by putting more money into suicide prevention than ever before so Kiwis can be met with timely support.”

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Review of the Vehicles, Machinery and Parts Import Health Standard

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Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Have your say

From 10 September to 10 November 2025, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) invites comment on proposed changes to the Vehicles, Machinery and Parts Import Health Standard.

Summary of proposed changes

Proposed changes to the requirements in the standard include:

  • adding Uzbekistan to the list of countries that are required to treat goods for brown marmorated stink bug (BMSB)
  • aligning the requirements for used parts with those for used machinery
  • requiring a treatment for used boats with water ballast systems
  • adding new, non-fully enclosed trailers to the commodities that can use a manufacturer’s declaration to be excluded from BMSB requirements
  • adding post-treatment requirements for used wires, cables, and ropes
  • updating definitions
  • changing the format and structure of the standard.

Full details are in the consultation document. Submissions close at 5pm on 10 November 2025.

Consultation document

Related documents

WTO notification [PDF, 299 KB]

Risk Management Proposal: Review of the Vehicles, Machinery and Parts Import Health Standard [PDF, 497 KB]

Extra questions for you

As well as getting your submissions on the proposed requirement changes in the standard, we would welcome your feedback on 3 related topics.

  1. We would like your thoughts on the way we have reformatted and rewritten the requirements in the standard. Do these changes make the requirements easier to understand? Do you have any other suggestions?
  2. We are not currently proposing year-round treatment for Japanese used vehicles. However, we are interested to know how requiring treatment year-round would positively or negatively impact you and your business. 
  3. Do you have any suggestions on how we could support higher compliance on used vehicles not imported through a system? Or are there any challenges in this area that you would like to tell us about?

Making your submission

Email your feedback on the draft standard (and the optional extra questions) before 5pm on 10 November 2025 to vmp.consultation@mpi.govt.nz.

Make sure you include in your submission:

  • the title of the consultation document in the subject line of your email
  • your name and title, if applicable
  • your organisation’s name (if you’re submitting on behalf of an organisation)
  • your contact details (for example, phone number, address, and email).

While we prefer email, you can send your submission by post to:

Terrestrial and Aquatic Environment Team
Ministry for Primary Industries
PO Box 2526
Wellington 6140
New Zealand.

All submissions received by the closing date will be considered before the amended import health standard (IHS) is issued. MPI may hold late submissions on file for consideration when the issued IHS is next revised or reviewed.

Any subsequent changes to the IHS will be noted in a second review of submissions before the IHS is finalised.

Submissions are public information

Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

Steps to finalising the new IHS

After consultation on a draft import health standard, MPI publishes a provisional IHS.

If you made a submission during the consultation, you have 10 working days to notify the Director-General of MPI that you intend to request an independent review. Reviews are limited to whether specific scientific evidence was given sufficient consideration.

If no review is requested within 10 working days, then the provisional IHS is confirmed and the final IHS is issued. A 6-month transition period will be implemented during which time either the old or new import requirements can be used. After this period, the new import requirements in the IHS must be followed.

For more information about reviews refer to Section 24 of the Biosecurity Act 1993 – NZ Legislation

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