Building fit-for-purpose Aged Care

October 28, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has agreed to an integrated approach to reform the aged care system including the establishment of a Ministerial Advisory Group to recommend changes to the funding model, Associate Health Minister Casey Costello and Health Minister Simeon Brown announced today.

“Improving the lives of older people is a priority for the coalition Government,” Ms Costello says. “Today’s announcement is about two things – better health outcomes for the 900,000 of us who are over 65, and a better, fit-for-purpose aged care system.

“We know that New Zealand has very good aged care, provided by dedicated people. However, the way that these services are funded is outdated and does not recognise the connection between the various parts of the system or the future investment required.

“Essentially, our aged care model is out of date and piecemeal change isn’t the solution.

“We want a system that provides the right type of care in the right place – and that allows people to transition between these types of care, that’s easier to navigate and access, that’s fair, and that is sustainable and will endure as our population ages.

“That requires long-term thinking and a bipartisan approach to solutions. This Government continued the review of aged care funding and service models started by the previous government and supported the establishment of a select committee inquiry into aged care.”

Mr Brown said that there was widespread understanding of the issues within the current system. The Ministerial Advisory Group was now being tasked with identifying the changes necessary to build the aged care system New Zealand needs.

The expert Group will provide an independent report and a set of recommendations around three areas:

The funding model needed to support sustainable services, particularly a sustainable supply of aged care beds
How the costs of providing aged care could be reasonably shared between those receiving care and the Government
The changes needed to support cohesion and integration between aged care services and health services, and between aged care and disability support services.

“Ensuring a sustainable supply of standard aged care beds is critical to ensuring all New Zealanders have the care they need as they age,” Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“The Government expects recommendations from this advisory group by mid-2026, with changes to the funding model able to be implemented in 2027.

“The Government is committed to a bipartisan approach to addressing these challenges as part of the commitment in the National-NZ First Coalition Agreement.”

“These are significant policy issues, with major political considerations attached and that’s why an independent group is required,” Ms Costello says. “The goal is that the Group’s recommendations will inform any future Governments policy and funding decisions.

“Encouragingly, there is great practice and innovation in different parts of the aged care system and standardising current good practice would be a significant step forward.

“We also need a system response that recognises most people want to stay at home if they can and allows them to access and move between the different levels of care they might need.”

The Ministers said that the Government was investing to ensure the on-going sustainability of the sector and continuing to drive operational improvements while the longer-term work was undertaken, with total funding to the sector increased by $270 million in the last two years.

“The funding increases are aimed at relieving pressure on the sector and improving care services for older New Zealanders while we work towards the longer-term reform needed to better help people age well.”

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University Research – Racial discrimination escalating in Aotearoa – report – UoA

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

A shadow report for the UN warns racial discrimination is worsening.

A significant, ideologically driven attack on Māori rights, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and racial equity is occurring in Aotearoa New Zealand, according to the co-authors of a shadow report for the UN.

The report, written by members of the Aotearoa Centre for Indigenous Peoples and the Law (Te Wai Ariki), will inform the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Te Wai Ariki co-director Professor Claire Charters (University of Auckland Law School) says the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination has repeatedly found that constitutional transformation is needed in New Zealand to achieve equality for Māori.

She says the report will inform New Zealand’s 23rd and 24th periodic UN reviews, scheduled for November 2025.

The breaches of Māori rights by this Government are profound, says Charters:
“They include an egregious abuse of its power to deliberately, explicitly, and brazenly trample on our rights under Te Tiriti and international law. It will undoubtedly be of concern to the Committee that the Government can do so with impunity, given the lack of constitutional protections of Māori rights.”

Te Wai Ariki’s submission argues that the current Coalition Government’s policies negatively impact Māori rights and remove certain protections. It states: “the Government is actively and profoundly aggravating New Zealand’s constitutionally racist foundation in a way we have not seen for at least half a century.”
It calls for constitutional transformation, not incremental reform, “to protect Māori tino rangatiratanga and prevent further legislative breaches of human rights”.

The report warns that “without transformation, Parliament remains unchecked and continues to pass laws in breach of Indigenous peoples’ rights.”

It also says the Government has been openly hostile to UN oversight, pointing to Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour’s controversial response to the UN Special Rapporteur on Indigenous Peoples in July 2025.

Two other reports – submitted by the People’s Action Plan Against Racism in Aotearoa (PAPARA), Te Hunga Rōia Māori o Aotearoa (the Māori Law Society) will also inform the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Across all three reports, the organisations highlight legislative and policy reforms by the Government that they say breach New Zealand’s obligations under the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination.

Te Hunga Rōia Māori describe the reforms as a “scorched-earth approach” to law and policy that has “systematically targeted Māori-specific policies, institutions and rights across health, justice, education, and the environment.”

In particular, their report cites the repeal of section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act (removing statutory obligations to support Māori children in state care), the disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora (the Māori Health Authority), and the introduction of the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Amendment Bill, which would alter legal recognition of customary marine title.

The People’s Action Plan Against Racism in Aotearoa, supported by the National Iwi Chairs Forum, describes the current situation as “a coordinated campaign of Treaty racism”.
Collectively, the reports ask the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination to:

Record that the 54th Government’s reforms are racially discriminatory and in breach of ICERD;
Reaffirm the constitutional status of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the Waitangi Tribunal;
Recommend an independent investigation into racial discrimination and legislative harm in Aotearoa;
Urge constitutional transformation consistent with Matike Mai Aotearoa;
Establish enhanced UN monitoring and in-country consultations with Māori and affected communities.

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University Research – Modern Slavery in Aotearoa New Zealand – UoA

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

Modern slavery isn’t a distant problem – it’s happening here in Aotearoa New Zealand.

It’s embedded in supply chains both domestically and internationally, exposing New Zealand companies to significant reputational and ethical risks. More than 250 New Zealand-headquartered companies appear on Australia’s Modern Slavery Register, but two private members’ bills proposing modern slavery legislation for New Zealand are still sitting in Parliament’s “biscuit tin”.

Introducing modern slavery legislation would align New Zealand with key trading partners—Australia and the United Kingdom—both of which have enacted modern slavery laws.

To explore the situation in Aotearoa and what needs to change, the University of Auckland Business School’s research centre, Juncture: Dialogues on Inclusive Capitalism, is hosting a panel event on Modern Slavery in Aotearoa New Zealand on Thursday, 30 October.

The discussion will examine the scope and complexity of modern slavery, review Australia’s legislative approach, consider the potential for similar laws in New Zealand, and discuss the practical implications for businesses and their supply chains.

Panellists include Professor John Dumay (Macquarie University, Sydney), Associate Professor Christina Stringer (University of Auckland), Rebekah Armstrong (Head of Advocacy and Justice at World Vision New Zealand), Sharleen Gargiulo (Sustainability Lead at Air New Zealand), and Oliver Christeller (Senior Human Rights Advisor, Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission) with Professor Christine Woods (University of Auckland) facilitating the discussion.

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Government fee change hits NZ’s poorest citizens – IHC

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: IHC

People with intellectual disability are facing yet another financial blow following changes to the Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act that remove a government subsidy for court-mandated financial examinations.

From 3 October 2024, the Public Trust began charging $247.27 per hour to review property managers’ annual financial statements – a process that ensures a person’s money is being properly managed. Previously, those with less than $20,000 in assets were protected from these costs by a government subsidy. That protection has now been taken away.

“Removing the subsidy is effectively charging people for being poor and disabled. It’s not right,” said Tania Thomas, IHC Director of Advocacy. “These are not people with savings or assets – many live week to week.”

The new fee applies to the person under protection in many cases, an intellectually disabled person living on a benefit. Public Trust has confirmed that fees cannot be waived.

“These fees are being charged to people who often have nothing to spare,” said Tania. “They are some of the most financially vulnerable people in New Zealand – yet they’re now being asked to pay for a safeguard that exists to protect them. It’s deeply unfair.”

People with intellectual disability already experience some of the highest rates of hardship in the country:

They are twice as likely to live in hardship before age 40, and three times as likely between 40 and 64, compared to others.
Nearly half would not be able to pay an unavoidable bill within a month without borrowing.
They are four times more likely to go without a proper meal, and three times more likely to cut back on fruit and vegetables because of cost.
Many go cold in winter because they cannot afford heating, and almost half can’t afford a holiday.

IHC is urging the Government to reinstate the subsidy or introduce a hardship exemption so that people with intellectual disability are not left paying for a process that was designed to keep them safe.

About IHC New Zealand

IHC New Zealand advocates for the rights, inclusion and welfare of all people with intellectual disabilities and supports them to live satisfying lives in the community. IHC provides advocacy, volunteering, events, membership associations and fundraising. It is part of the IHC Group, which also includes IDEA Services, Choices NZ and Accessible Properties.

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New leadership for WorkSafe Board

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden has appointed new members to the WorkSafe Board to provide strong governance as WorkSafe refocuses on early engagement to improve health and safety outcomes.

Murray Jagger has been named the new Board Chair. An experienced director with a background in primary and port sectors, Mr Jagger is a director of his family farming business, Manaia View Farms Limited, and former Chair of Marsden Maritime Holdings Limited. He brings expertise in high-risk industries, strategy development, and strong governance capability.

Brett O’Riley and Christopher Alderson have also joined the Board.

As the former Chief Executive Officer of the Employers and Manufacturers Association, Brett O’Riley brings expertise in education and engagement. He has led system-wide improvement campaigns and offers commercial acumen and stakeholder engagement skills.

As Chief Executive of Construction Health and Safety New Zealand (CHASNZ) and a health and safety professional, Chris Alderson has strong construction sector networks and a track record of advocacy for workers. He is also a Chartered Accountant and a director of Mates in Construction.

The appointments are for a term of three years.

“These new members bring fresh skills, experience, and leadership to the Board,” says Ms van Velden.

“I am confident they will help WorkSafe engage early to support businesses and individuals to manage health and safety risks and improve outcomes for workers and businesses across the country.”

More information on the board members:

Murray Jagger is a director of Manaia View Farms Limited and recently completed nine years as Chair of Marsden Maritime Holdings Limited. He brings deep knowledge of high-risk operations and health and safety challenges, along with extensive experience in strategy development and implementation. Mr Jagger also understands the role of a regulator and offers significant governance experience, strong commercial and financial acumen, and proven leadership.

Brett O’Riley is the former Chief Executive Officer of the Employers and Manufacturers Association and brings strong industry networks and contacts. Mr O’Riley has extensive experience in designing and implementing system-wide outcome improvement campaigns, underpinned by sound governance knowledge and commercial acumen. He also offers strong stakeholder and relationship management skills and a clear understanding of wider health and safety system changes.

Christopher Alderson is a seasoned health and safety professional with extensive experience across the public and private sectors. Mr Alderson brings strong construction sector networks, deep knowledge of industry health and safety frameworks, and a clear understanding of regulatory bodies. He has deep experience designing construction industry training and system-wide education and engagement campaigns to improve worker outcomes. Mr Alderson is the Chief Executive of Construction Health and Safety New Zealand (CHASNZ), a director of Mates in Construction and a Chartered Accountant.

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Further funding boost to support communities affected by severe weather

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is providing a further $100,000 to Mayoral Relief Funds to help the Kaikōura and Hurunui communities impacted by severe weather, Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery, Mark Mitchell announced today.

The announcement comes in addition to the $150,000 contribution to the Southland and Clutha Mayoral Relief Funds announced this morning.

Kaikōura and Hurunui districts will each be provided $25,000 to assist with the ongoing response and recovery efforts following recent severe weather.

In addition, it has been classified as a medium scale adverse event. The Ministry for Primary Industries is contributing $25,000 each for Kaikōura and Hururnui districts through the Mayoral Relief Fund to support the initial recovery of the rural sector.

“Communities in the affected regions are doing it tough, and with another front approaching, further impacts are expected over the next 24 hours,” Mr Mitchell says.

“Today’s contribution to Kaikōura and Hurunui’s Mayoral Relief Funds will provide support for the communities’ immediate and pressing needs, and will help them as they begin to recover from these events.

“I’ve spent time this week with affected communities and have been deeply impressed by the resilience, pragmatism, and grit shown by first responders, iwi and community leaders on the ground.

“Thank you for the work you are doing. The Government stands with you, and we are ready to provide additional support whenever and wherever it is needed.”

Mayoral Relief Funds help communities bounce back after an emergency. Local communities and councils understand where the immediate needs are and how to help individuals, whānau, community organisations, and marae.

The medium scale classification also unlocks further support for farmers and growers, which could include tax relief and enables MSD to consider Rural Assistance Payments and activating Enhanced Taskforce Green.

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Tax Reform – Labour’s CGT welcomed, but ‘unambitious’ – Tax reform advocates

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: Tax Justice Aotearoa (TJA)

Tax Justice Aotearoa (TJA) and the Better Taxes for a Better Future Campaign have expressed their disappointment with the narrow Capital Gains Tax Labour announced this morning, describing it as ‘unambitious’ at a time that calls for more, but welcomed Labour’s commitment to a CGT.

“Tax Justice Aotearoa and the Better Taxes campaign, along with numerous public opinion polls and expert commentators, have supported a CGT because it has the promise to deliver real benefits for New Zealand”, says Glenn Barclay, Tax Justice Aotearoa and Better Taxes spokesperson. “But it really has to be as comprehensive as possible to deliver long-term and meaningful change. Labour’s policy represents a first step, but it doesn’t yet look like it will deliver on the potential benefits to New Zealanders of a comprehensive CGT.”

“We have a good understanding of the challenges facing the country and both the Treasury and Inland Revenue have recently produced reports that demonstrate that we will have trouble addressing these challenges unless we raise substantially more tax revenue,” says Glenn Barclay. “In light of all of this we can only describe Labour’s policy as ‘unambitious’.”

“Labour’s policy should help provide some balance to the property market and it is good to see them prioritising GP visits with the limited funds that this tax is likely to generate, but much more is needed to address other issues in the health system, including staffing and capital investment. And while health is a major issue facing the country, we also need to better fund our education system, respond effectively to climate change, address poverty and inequality, and more to meet the needs of our ageing population”, says Glenn Barclay.

In 2023 IRD conducted research that demonstrated that the wealthiest 311 families in New Zealand had an effective tax rate of 9.4% compared to just over 20% for the average New Zealander. Untaxed income from capital gains was a big part of the ultra wealthy families’ low tax rate This tax policy will have only the lightest impact on addressing that discrepancy.

“This policy will still leave us as an outlier internationally, where most countries in the OECD have a comprehensive CGT. A comprehensive CGT is a common sense way to gather resources we need, address inequality in our tax system and improve housing affordability. We think that Labour should go further so it can deliver for New Zealanders,” says Glenn Barclay.

“The policy does represent a small step towards a fairer tax system and give us something to build on, including supplementing the CGT with other tax changes that would improve outcomes for New Zealanders,” says Glenn Barclay.

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Health – Aged Care Association welcomes cross-party commitment to aged care reform

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: New Zealand Aged Care Association (ACA)

The New Zealand Aged Care Association (ACA) warmly welcomes today’s announcement by Health Minister Hon Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Hon Casey Costello of a Ministerial Advisory Group to design a sustainable, fit-for-purpose aged care system.

Chief Executive Hon Tracey Martin said the announcement marks an important moment of national cooperation on one of the most pressing social challenges facing New Zealand.

“This is a truly positive step — not just for the aged care sector, but for all New Zealanders who want to see a strong, fair and enduring system of care for our older population,” Ms Martin said. “It signals a commitment to long-term, bipartisan reform — something the Association has been calling for over the past 18 months. We are genuinely encouraged to see that call being answered.”

Ms Martin said the establishment of the Advisory Group provides an unprecedented opportunity for cross-party collaboration and evidence-based policy development.

“For the past 18 months, we’ve asked for the chance to genuinely participate in designing a system that is stable, sustainable, and investable — one that ensures we have the capacity to care for the rapidly growing number of older Kiwis who will need support in the very near future,” she said. “We commend Ministers Brown and Costello for their leadership and welcome the Government’s intention to bring all parties together around lasting solutions. The ACA stands ready and willing to assist the Advisory Group in any way that will help deliver those outcomes.”

While the Advisory Group’s work will shape long-term reform, Ms Martin noted that its timeline means recommendations will not be available in time to inform the 2026/27 Budget.

“Ministers Brown and Costello understand what is needed to steady the sector in the short term while the Advisory Group develops its proposals,” she said. “We would urge Finance Minister Willis to invite them to bring forward a Budget bid that delivers the immediate support required to give providers confidence and continuity while the longer-term reforms are being developed.”

Practical short-term measures would enable providers to take a more active role in, for example, supporting older New Zealanders to recover after hospitalisation — particularly those aged over 65 who are well enough to leave acute care but not yet ready to return home. By funding short-stay recovery placements in aged residential care, hospitals could free up beds sooner while ensuring older people receive the right care and rehabilitation to regain their independence and safely return home. “Such initiatives would make a tangible difference while the Advisory Group undertakes its important work,” Ms Martin said. “We are committed to working alongside Ministers, officials, and the Advisory Group to help design an aged care system that is equitable, sustainable, and truly built to last.”

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Southbound lanes blocked, Northern Motorway, Christchurch

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Both southbound lanes on the Christchurch Northan Motorway are blocked following a serious crash this morning.

Police were called to the multi-vehicle crash, between Ohaka Road and Tram Road, at around 10:40am.

Initial indicators are that people are injured.

Diversions are in place at the Ohaka Road on-ramp, and the road is expected to be blocked for some time.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area, and to expect delays.

ENDS

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Update: Police seek two men in relation to Te Puke homicide

LiveNews Publisher

October 28, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown, Western Bay of Plenty Area Investigations Manager:

A homicide investigation is continuing following the death of a man in Te Puke on Saturday 25 October.

Police can now name the victim of the homicide as Tristan Oakes, aged 29.

Tristan died in hospital on Saturday, after being critically injured when shot at his Te Puke home.

Police have identified two men we wish to speak to in relation to Tristan’s death.

They are Kanan Clarke, aged 39, and Joseph Yorke, aged 40.

Both men are considered dangerous and should not be approached.

Anyone who has information on their whereabouts is asked to contact Police and quote file number 251025/0395.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre.

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