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Three prime New Zealand islands join global restoration campaign

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Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  21 February 2025

The Department of Conservation (DOC) and partners are joining the international Island-Ocean Connection Challenge (IOCC) to boost conservation efforts on subantarctic Maukahuka/Auckland Island, Rakiura/Stewart Island and the Chatham Islands. 

The IOCC, led by international conservation groups, Island Conservation and Re:wild, and UC San Diego’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography, aims to restore at least 40 globally significant island-ocean ecosystems around the world by 2030.   

An ambitious plan to remove invasive species, protect threatened wildlife, and restore the island ecosystems so they’re resilient to climate change has been agreed by DOC, Ngāi Tahu, Moriori, Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri and community partners.  

DOC’s Director-General Penny Nelson says joining the IOCC will help New Zealand promote and amplify groundbreaking island conservation on the world stage. 

“For millions of years, New Zealand’s native species evolved separately from the rest of the world. They’re unique, they’re only found here, and once they’re gone from here, they’re gone from everywhere. 

“These islands are precious remnants of a prehistoric world. Protecting and restoring them will make sure they become safe havens for iconic native species once more. 

“We want to see the return of fields of chest-high flowering megaherbs on Maukahuka/Auckland Island, thriving colonies of diverse seabirds like tāiko and albatross on the Chatham Islands and Rakiura becoming a refuge for kākāpō.   

“Partnering with the IOCC connects us with international donors who want to restore nature. It will boost government investment so we can scale up the most complex and challenging island conservation projects New Zealand has ever attempted.  

“We’re thrilled that just last month a generous New Zealander donated $100,000 to the Auckland Island project, adding to the $11.5 million already raised through philanthropy across the three projects,” Penny Nelson says. 

Penny Becker, CEO of Island Conservation, says, “We are beyond excited to welcome these three important New Zealand restoration projects into our global portfolio of island-ocean ecosystems.  

“By restoring these islands, we can make a tangible difference for biodiversity and oceans. Investing in these projects is an investment in the health and future of our planet.” 

Signatory partners are celebrating the launch of New Zealand’s participation in the IOCC at an event at Te Rau Aroha Marae in Bluff, hosted by Te Rūnaka o Awarua.  

Awarua Rūnaka spokesperson and co-chair of Te Puka Rakiura Trust Dean Whaanga, says, “Te Rūnaka o Awarua is delighted to be hosting this event to launch the entry of these three motu (islands) into the IOCC. 

“Two of the three islands – Rakiura/Stewart Island and Maukahuka/Auckland Island – are located within the Ngāi Tahu takiwā (territory) and our role as kaitiaki (guardians) of these motu is of immense significance to our whānau (people).  

“Our success in restoring the small offshore islands surrounding Rakiura has laid the pathway for the mahi that needs to be done on Rakiura and Maukahuka,” Dean Whaanga says. 

New Zealand is world renowned for island conservation work with over 110 successful island pest eradications achieved so far and an ambitious nationwide Predator Free 2050 goal. However, the three latest island projects will be ground-breaking in their scale and complexity.  

Each island is 4-15 times larger than the biggest New Zealand island (Campbell Island) previously cleared of pests. Their remoteness from the mainland, difficult terrain, wild weather and multiple animal pest species presents unique challenges. Human settlements are also present on Rakiura and the Chatham Islands, marking a first for New Zealand predator free projects of this scale. The local communities play a crucial part in the restoration of these islands. 

Plans for removing introduced predators from the three islands have been underway for many years and are well advanced. Extensive research and feasibility work has been undertaken, involving a wide range of expertise including in science, predator control, planning and logistics, and community engagement. Investment in these projects will unlock new methods and grow the toolbox for eradicating harmful introduced predators both in Aotearoa and around the world.   

The government has invested $54 million in the three island conservation projects, which are estimated to cost a total of $202 million. With $11.5 million donated so far, this leaves $137 million still to be raised.  

Funds raised towards the three island conservation projects will be managed by the New Zealand Nature Fund (NZNF), which is supporting New Zealand’s IOCC pledge. NZNF is also embarking on a major campaign with donors and philanthropists.     

Donate today to help restore the natural biodiversity of these three unique islands: www.nznaturefund.org/iocc.

New Zealand Island-Ocean Connection Challenge booklet (PDF, 5,900K)

Background information

Signatories to New Zealand’s IOCC pledge are the Department of Conservation, Te Rūnanga o Hokonui, Te Rūnaka o Awarua, Te Rūnaka o Waihōpai, Te Rūnaka o Ōraka Aparima, Te Puka Rakiura Trust (Predator Free Rakiura), Hokotehi Moriori Trust, Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri Iwi Trust and Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust. Predator Free NZ Trust and Predator Free 2050 Ltd are supporting partners. 

DOC is coordinating the partnerships with all groups involved in the IOCC pledge.  

Maukahuka/Auckland Island, located 465km south of Bluff, is a renowned World Heritage Site and nature reserve. Dubbed the ‘seabird capital of the world’, it’s a hub for breeding seabirds, including four albatross species. The island’s rich biodiversity (including over 100 species found nowhere else) is at threat from mice, pigs and feral cats. Planning is well underway for the eradication of the three invasive mammals which is estimated to cost $78 million. This project is led by DOC in partnership with Ngāi Tahu. 

Rakiura/Stewart Island, New Zealand’s third largest island, is 90% public conservation land including Rakiura National Park. Home to a tokoeka brown kiwi population, it’s surrounded by many pest-free islands with thriving tītī/sooty shearwater and other seabird populations. Te Puka Rakiura Trust, Ngāi Tahu and DOC are working together towards the goal to eradicate feral cats, rats, possums, and hedgehogs from the island. The vision is to restore the island for the return of kākāpō and other wildlife previously found there. 

Chatham Islands, located 800km east of Aotearoa, is a haven for native birds and plants found nowhere else like the kakaruia/karure/Chatham Island black robin, Chatham Island tāiko/magenta petrel and Chatham Island albatross/toroa/hopo. The IOCC pledge is to continue removing feral cats from Rangihaute/Rangiauria/Pitt Island and complete the first phase of the Predator Free project on Rēkohu/Wharekauri/main Chatham by removing possums and feral cats. The long-term goal is to remove possums, feral cats and rats from the whole archipelago and see the seabird-driven ecosystem thriving. This community-driven project is led by the Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust with Hokotehi Moriori Trust and Ngāti Mutunga o Wharekauri, supported by DOC, Chatham Islands Council and Predator Free 2050 Ltd. 

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Department of Conservation: media@doc.govt.nz 

Island Conservation Strategic Communications Director Sally Esposito: sally.esposito@islandconservation.org 

Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust Communications Lead Jess MacKenzie: info@chathamrestorationtrust.org  

Te Puka Rakiura Trust (Predator Free Rakiura) Communication Advisor Vaneesa Bellew: v.bellew@predatorfreerakiura.org.nz

MIL OSI

Serious crash, SH 73/Curletts Road, Christchurch

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Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

A busy Christchurch intersection is shut as emergency services respond to a crash involving a car and motorbike this morning.

Curletts Road (State Highway 73) is blocked at the intersection of Lunns Road, following the 5.40am crash.

The rider of the motorcycle is being treated for critical injuries.

The Serious Crash Unit is attending and the intersection will likely be closed for some time.

Motorists are advised to use alternative routes.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Barbecues Galore Acquires Barbecue Country Edmonton

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Source: Media Outreach

ALBERTA & ONTARIO, CANADA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 February 2025 – In a joint agreement that completes today at 11:00 am MST, Barbecue Country, of 5682 75 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta will officially join the proudly Canadian, Barbecues Galore family.

Canadian homeowners have trusted Barbecues Galore since 1979 for expert advice and exceptional services related to luxury patio furniture, fireplaces, barbecues, an amazing assortment of barbecue accessories, smokers, pizza ovens, outdoor fire tables, umbrellas, modular outdoor kitchens, charcoal, and pellets, plus a huge selection of sauces, spices & rubs.

A 46-year-old, privately held, Canadian-owned and operated company, Barbecues Galore will now own six gorgeous retail stores — three in Ontario, two in Calgary, and one in Edmonton — offering the nation’s best collection of barbecues, fireplaces, and patio furniture.

Barbecue Country started in 1983 and has always been known as the premier destination for all your barbecue needs. It expanded into its current 12,000 sq ft. showroom in 2004. With a certified Kansas City Barbecue Society judge on staff, it is clear that barbecue is in the DNA of both companies.1

“We are excited to welcome the staff and customers of Barbecue Country to our Barbecues Galore family. They can expect to enjoy more product choices including Yoder smokers, pizza ovens, electric fireplaces, luxury patio furniture, a variety of charcoal options, and a $9.99 everyday bag of Big Boy pellet fuel – the lowest price in Canada,” said President, Paul Johnson.

Barbecues Galore wants all current and future customers to know they are in good hands. Both companies honour the same great Price Promise. We welcome everyone to join our barbecue community for Canadians, by Canadians. Follow us on Facebook, and subscribe to our free email Hotline Newsletter to get weekly barbecue recipes, and articles on interesting barbecue topics, and be among the first to hear about local events and great promotions throughout the year.

www.BarbecuesGalore.ca

Hashtag: #BarbecuesGalore

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

NZ-AU: Canyon Bolsters Board with Appointment of Dean Horton

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Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

PERTH, Australia, Feb. 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canyon Resources Limited (ASX: CAY) (‘Canyon’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Dean Horton as Non-Executive Director commencing his role on 19 February 2025. Mr. Horton’s appointment supports the Board’s strategy of attracting and building a proven, diversified and highly-credentialed team of industry professionals who can grow and develop the Company’s Minim Martap Bauxite Project, located in Cameroon, through development and into production.

Mr. Horton is a senior corporate finance professional with over 25 years of international experience in the development and financing of energy, natural resource and infrastructure projects. Mr. Horton has held senior roles with leading financial institutions across Australia, Africa, the Gulf Region, Hong Kong and Indonesia. An emerging markets expert, Mr. Horton brings a network of international relationships spanning sovereigns and financial institutions across renewable energy, natural resources, and sustainable investment sectors.

Mr. Horton previously served as Group Manager of Funding at Fortescue, where he led the team responsible for corporate finance solutions for decarbonisation, the global portfolio of domestic and international green energy development projects and offshore iron ore projects in Africa.

Prior to his tenure at Fortescue, Mr. Horton held several positions at the National Australia Bank. As General Manager of Group Corporate Development, Mr. Horton spearheaded NAB’s entry into Indonesia, obtaining regulatory approvals and leading M&A initiatives. In addition, Mr. Horton led the establishment of a Hong Kong based project finance team supporting over US$ 7 billion in infrastructure, energy and mining projects across Asia and the Gulf, and was a member of the corporate finance/ special situations team at Ahli United Bank, managing a US$3.5 billion global emerging market portfolio.

Most recently, Mr. Horton was the Chief Financial Officer of Greatland Gold (LON: GGP) where he supported the significant equity and working capital raise, and associated hedging, for the US$475 million Telfer and Havieron acquisition from Newmont.

A Zambian national, Mr. Horton holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Finance, with Honours, and his thesis on modelling Australian interest rates was published by the Australian Economic Review in 1999.

Mark Hohnen, Executive Chairman of Canyon commented: “We are delighted to welcome Dean as Non-Executive Director, with his appointment bringing significant project financing expertise and international leadership, which will be increasingly invaluable as we continue to grow and develop our world-class Minim Martap Bauxite Project into production.

“Attracting and appointing someone of Dean’s calibre is testament to Canyon’s reputation within the bauxite industry and exciting future prospects for the Company, as we make rapid progress toward production. Dean’s experience across international jurisdictions and strong relationships within the global natural resources sector will provide critical support as we enter this next phase of exciting growth and set the foundations for the Company as a near-term bauxite producer.

“The Board is committed to ensuring that Minim Martap is positioned to become a tier-one, long term bauxite producer, delivering strong and sustainable value for all stakeholders. Dean’s appointment further strengthens our leadership at a pivotal time and we look forward to working with him as we continue to build momentum towards production.”

This announcement has been approved for release by the Canyon Resources’ Board of Directors.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a3305866-5217-4f9f-a18f-3fdca5b6d347

– Published by The MIL Network

Advisory group on organised crime appointed

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Source: New Zealand Government

The Ministerial Advisory Group on transnational and serious organised crime was appointed by Cabinet on Monday and met for the first time today, Associate Police Minister Casey Costello announced.
“The group will provide independent advice to ensure we have a better cross-government response to fighting the increasing threat posed to New Zealand by international and domestic crime groups,” Ms Costello says.
“These criminal groups are organised as businesses, and we have to address their activities accordingly – stopping their product and their supply chains and their use of ‘labour’ and targeting their money. 
“This means there’s a greater role for agencies like ACC, WorkSafe and Inland Revenue to work alongside Immigration, MPI and law enforcement to cooperate and fight organised crime. The way all of these agencies operate and work together will be a focus for the advisory group.”
The advisory group, chaired by Steve Symon, a senior partner at Meredith Connell, has expertise across government and law enforcement, as well as knowledge of the nature of organised crime and the impact it has in New Zealand. There will be four other members, three of whom – Craig Hamilton, John Tims and Jarrod Gilbert – have been appointed. The fourth member will be appointed very shortly. 
The group will be in place for eight months and be funded through the Proceeds of Crime Fund.
“The advisory group will provide advice and recommendations on how law enforcement and regulatory agencies can improve enforcement and disruption action,” Ms Costello says. 
“We have to do all that we can to stop criminal groups with the ultimate objective of making New Zealand the hardest place in the world for organised crime to operate.
“Organised criminal activity inflicts misery in our communities including driving violent crime, and harms legitimate businesses and the broader New Zealand economy,” Ms Costello says. “The illicit drug trade alone is estimated to have cost the country close to $1.5 billion in social harm last year.
“We have a range of regulatory and law enforcement levers available to us and we need agencies to more effectively use these to support the dismantling of criminal organisations and the sham businesses that front their activities.
“I’m anticipating that the advisory group will look at information sharing between agencies, the way investigations and prosecutions are managed, and how frontline cooperation can be improved.  
“Collectively, we can make a step-change in the way Government agencies think about and respond to serious organised crime and make New Zealand safer.”

MIL OSI

Tax – Keeping ability to gather tax information essential says tax reform group – TJA

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Source: Tax Justice Aotearoa

20 February 2025 – Tax Justice Aotearoa is calling on the Minister of Revenue to retain the ability for Inland Revenue to collect vital information that supports effective tax policy making.

“We are concerned that the Minister initiated a review of this important provision within the Tax Administration Act just over a year after IR produced its report on High Net Worth Individuals,” said Glenn Barclay, Chairperson of Tax Justice Aotearoa.

“That piece of work provided us with the first in depth information on the scale of the inequities of our tax system and the review has the air of an exercise to close down or restrict similar research in the future. We are calling on the Minister to stick with this provision, which is essential to good tax policy making.”

S.17GB of the Tax Administration Act is the provision that enabled Inland Revenue to carry out that ground breaking Report on High Net Worth Individuals in 2023.

The report revealed that the wealthiest 311 families in the country had an effective tax rate of around 9%, while the average taxpayer had an effective tax rate of over 20%.
 
“The lack of balance in our tax system is now well understood, but without the information gathered under s.17GB we would not have had the research on High Net Worth Individuals and would be guessing about the extent of the problem,” said Glenn Barclay.

S.17GB goes beyond the general information collecting power in the Act, which is not sufficient to provide access to information that could potentially lead to policy change – it is mainly about enforcement.
 
“The need for this provision is also a symptom of our badly out of balance tax system. If we were already taxing capital in any meaningful way, then it is reasonable to assume that IR would have much better information about what high net worth individuals are worth.

“In the absence of those taxes and that information, this provision becomes even more essential.”
 
Glenn Barclay also drew attention to the relevance of s.17GB to other recently announced policies.
 
“Government policies such as the possibility of reducing corporate taxes and encouraging wealthy individuals to come to New Zealand, mean that understanding their contribution to revenue is going to become more important, not less,” he said.
 
“There is no good reason to reduce or eliminate this power to gather information other than to protect vested interests and we ask the Minister to put the public interest first.”

MIL OSI

The Silent Menace of DUI

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Source: Press Release Service

Driving under the influence (DUI) remains one of New Zealand’s most persistent and preventable public health challenges. According to the New Zealand Transport Agency, alcohol-impaired driving contributes to nearly 30% of fatal road crashes annually. Beyond the stark statistics lies a deeper issue: the profound medical, social, and economic consequences of DUI that ripple through communities, families, and individuals.

The Medical Reality of DUI
Alcohol’s impact on the body is both immediate and far-reaching. Even in small quantities, it impairs essential cognitive and physical functions, creating a dangerous disconnect between driver and vehicle:

Slowed Reflexes: Alcohol delays reaction times, making it difficult to respond to sudden changes on the road.
Impaired Vision: Blurred or double vision reduces a driver’s ability to judge distances and recognize hazards.
Poor Decision-Making: Alcohol disrupts the brain’s ability to process information, leading to risky behaviors and poor judgment.
A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of just 0.05%—the legal limit in New Zealand—doubles the risk of a crash. At higher levels, the likelihood of a fatal accident increases exponentially. Chronic alcohol misuse, often associated with repeated DUI incidents, can lead to long-term health issues such as liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression.

A Community Issue, Not Just an Individual One
DUI is not merely a personal failing; it is a societal problem. Every incident affects families, first responders, healthcare systems, and the broader community. In cities like Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin, where nightlife and social drinking are woven into the culture, the challenge is particularly acute. Public health initiatives have made strides in raising awareness, but more is needed. Prevention requires not just education, but accessible solutions that align with modern lifestyles.

Practical Steps for Safer Choices
While systemic solutions are essential, individual actions remain critical. Some practical tips include:

Plan Ahead: Arrange a designated driver, use a rideshare app, or rely on delivery services to avoid the need to drive after drinking.
Monitor Consumption: Use standard drink guidelines to stay within safe limits.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water between alcoholic beverages can slow the absorption of alcohol.
Set Limits: Establish clear boundaries before drinking to avoid impulsive decisions.
By adopting these habits, individuals can play an active role in reducing DUI incidents and creating safer communities.

A Smarter Way Forward
The fight against DUI requires a multifaceted approach—one that combines education, enforcement, and innovation. While the road ahead is long, the emergence of practical solutions offers a glimpse of what’s possible. Technologies and businesses that encourage safer choices are beginning to make a difference.

Take GIMME, New Zealand’s local and leading on-demand alcohol delivery platform. The service provides fast, convenient delivery of beverages directly to customers’ doors—within 30–90 minutes in major cities and by the next business day nationwide. By eliminating the need for individuals to drive after consuming alcohol, GIMME reduces the temptation to get behind the wheel and helps prevent DUI. Its commitment to safety and customer satisfaction extends to robust packaging protocols, ensuring a seamless, secure delivery experience.

“We’re not just delivering alcohol; we’re delivering experiences and promoting safer choices,” says Vanshraj Singh, Business Head at GIMME. “Our goal is to make it easy for Kiwis to enjoy their favorite beverages without compromising safety.”

GIMME is more than just a delivery service; it’s a movement toward safer, smarter, and more responsible drinking experiences. By providing an alternative to driving under the influence, GIMME helps to foster a culture of responsibility and conviviality.

Partnering for Progress
GIMME’s partnerships with local breweries, wineries, and distilleries support New Zealand’s vibrant beverage industry while amplifying the company’s public health mission. This community-focused approach strengthens both the local economy and the safety of New Zealand’s roads.

Looking to the future, GIMME is focused on innovation, expanding its reach, and enhancing its technology. With its loyalty and rewards program—on par with those used by global companies like Ben & Jerry’s—GIMME continues to elevate the standard for on-demand alcohol delivery.

Conclusion
As New Zealand continues to grapple with the challenges of DUI, progress depends on collective action. From individuals taking responsible steps to businesses like GIMME leading by example, there is potential to reduce the devastating impact of DUI. Together, these efforts can pave the way for a safer, more conscientious drinking culture—one that values both personal enjoyment and public well-being.

Media Release 20 February 2025.

MIL OSI

Advocacy News – Statement on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s Double Standards in Engagement – PFNZ

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Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

We are deeply disappointed that Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has chosen to meet with the New Zealand Jewish Council while repeatedly refusing multiple requests from Palestinians and their allies for a meeting. This blatant double standard is unacceptable and undermines the principles of fairness, inclusivity, and balanced political engagement.

Palestinians in New Zealand, alongside their allies, have consistently sought an open and constructive dialogue with the Prime Minister to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the ongoing occupation, and New Zealand’s role in advocating for justice and human rights. Despite our repeated requests, the Prime Minister has refused to meet with us, sending a clear message that Palestinian voices are not valued in his government’s decision-making process.

New Zealand has a proud history of standing for justice, human rights, and the dignity of all people. By selectively engaging with certain communities while excluding others, Prime Minister Luxon is failing to uphold these values. We urge him to end this double standard and meet with Palestinian representatives in good faith—anything less is a failure of leadership and a betrayal of New Zealand’s commitment to fairness and equity.

Maher Nazzal
Palestine Forum of New Zealand

MIL OSI

Local News – Wairaka Park building’s future to be resolved – Porirua

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Source: Porirua City Council

The fate of the old Plunket building at Wairaka Park in Porirua’s Pukerua Bay will be decided in the coming months.
At a Porirua City Council meeting on Thursday, councillors and Porirua Mayor Anita Baker discussed a report about whether the building – unused since 2021 and needing substantial repairs and a new roof – should be completely removed or restored for community use.
The cost to upgrade it to a safe and usable condition, according to the report, would be about $256,000, which Council has not budgeted for.
Although Plunket surrendered the building to Council in 2022, Plunket would cover the cost if it was decided it should be removed.
A pre-engagement report in 2023 indicated residents of Pukerua Bay had ideas such as a café or food business, or for the building to be used as a community hub.
Public submissions can be made on what to do with the building from 6 March via the public consultation page on Council’s website, and information will be available at Pukerua Bay Library. Council officers will also attend a meeting of the Pukerua Bay Residents Association on 11 March.
Submissions will close 6 April, there will be hearings in June, and Council’s Te Puna Kōrero will make a decision in July.

MIL OSI

Foreign Affairs – New report highlights untapped potential in New Zealand-Viet Nam relationship

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Source: Asia New Zealand Foundation

The Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is thrilled to launch its latest report Viet Nam and New Zealand at 50: The next chapter. This report explores the growing potential of the bilateral relationship as the two nations celebrate 50 years of formal diplomatic ties.
Commissioned by the Foundation and authored by Haike Manning, the report builds on the 2020 publication, Viet Nam & New Zealand: Let’s Go, offering fresh insights into Viet Nam’s dynamic environment and celebrating the people who have contributed to the New Zealand – Viet Nam relationship over the last 50 years. 
“This report is timely, especially with the Prime Minister’s upcoming delegation to Viet Nam. Its insights will be a valuable resource for those who want to learn more about our bilateral relationship,” says Suzannah Jessep, CE of the Foundation.
“Viet Nam is already our 14th biggest trading partner, with bilateral trade worth NZ$2.68 billion in 2024. Given Viet Nam’s booming economy, the potential for New Zealand businesses, from fashion and food to tech and the arts is huge. We do have a bit of a trade deficit at the moment, but that just means there’s room to grow.”
The report’s author Haike Manning describes the pace of change in Viet Nam as “remarkable”.
“It is expected to see some of the fastest income growth in the world over the next decade,” he says.
“Viet Nam’s increasingly wealthy consumers trust our high quality, safe food, which has underpinned significant growth in our exports to Viet Nam over the past 10 years.”
Beyond trade, the report also celebrates long-standing ties between the two countries, especially in areas like healthcare, education and diplomacy.
People-to-people connections are flourishing, with 8,000 Vietnamese visiting New Zealand in 2023 and 40,000 New Zealanders visiting Viet Nam in 2024. New Zealand and Viet Nam also share a commitment to a stable international environment and are actively collaborating on defence and security matters.
The full report is a great read for anyone looking to understand the incredible opportunities in Viet Nam, from businesses to policymakers, academics and anyone curious about understanding and engaging with this dynamic market.
Additional Information:
About the Author
Haike Manning is the former New Zealand Ambassador to Viet Nam (2012-2016). Haike’s 20-year career as a New Zealand diplomat spanned key global economies (India, Brazil, China, as well as Viet Nam), with a strong focus on supporting trade, business and education outcomes for New Zealand.
Since 2017, Haike has been based in Ho Chi Minh City, where he founded LightPath Consulting Group, a consulting business supporting international education providers to engage effectively in Viet Nam. In 2021, LightPath was acquired by Acumen, another international education consulting business. Haike subsequently joined Acumen to spearhead their expansion throughout Southeast Asia.
About the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono
Established in 1994, the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is New Zealand’s leading authority on Asia. Its mission is to equip New Zealanders to thrive in Asia, by providing experiences and resources to build knowledge, skills and confidence. The Foundation’s activities cover more than 20 countries in Asia and are delivered through eight core programmes: arts, business, entrepreneurship, leadership, media, research, Track II diplomacy and sports. 

MIL OSI