Fire and Emergency New Zealand seeks local advisory committee members in Wellington

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February 3, 2025

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is calling for expressions of interest from people in the greater Wellington area to join its local advisory committee.

The Wellington Local Advisory Committee provides independent advice to the Fire and Emergency board about what their communities value, their needs, and the risks they face.

Fire and Emergency’s local advisory committees help work with communities, businesses and industries to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies when they happen.

The Wellington District covers Wairarapa and the Kapiti Coast.

Fire and Emergency is looking for members who have a passion for making our communities safe both now and into the future.

Key responsibilities of local advisory committee members:

– Assisting in identifying local risks, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

– Actively develop and maintain various community relationships to share the needs and risks of those communities.

– Input into planning and reporting, providing a voice how Fire and Emergency New Zealand can make a difference.

Who we’re looking for:

– People with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives who can engage with a broad range of interest groups.

– Leaders in their communities, businesses and industries and understand its unique needs and opportunities.

– A keen interest in supporting public safety and working collaboratively to make a positive impact.

– People with governance experience who can think strategically and pragmatically.

– People with awareness of long-term sustainability challenges and climate resilience strategies relevant to the Wellington District.

– People who attend regular meetings, participate in working groups, and contribute time to community initiatives.

“The Wellington region is a large area with a diverse population,” Fire and Emergency Wellington District Manager Brett Lockyer says.

“The needs of central Wellington will vary greatly from the needs of coastal Wairarapa, so it is vital to the success of our local advisory committee that we have people who understand the risks, challenges and opportunities to work with us”.

More information about local advisory committees, what the role involves, and how to apply is on our website: www.fireandemergency.nz/LACs.

MIL OSI

Applications sought for Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s Canterbury Local Advisory Committee

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February 3, 2025

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is seeking applications for members of its Canterbury Local Advisory Committee.

The Canterbury Local Advisory Committee will cover both the Canterbury and Mid-South Canterbury Fire Districts, covering the area from just south of the Clarence River down to the Waitaki River.

It is a wide area with a diverse mix of people and land use.

Fire and Emergency’s Te Ihu Region Manager Brad Mosby says it is important to get a wide range of voices at the table of a local advisory committee.

“Canterbury and Mid-South Canterbury are known for their diverse demographic mix, expansive plains, Southern Alps, and rugged coastline,” he says.

“The area faces risks from earthquakes, particularly due to its location near the Alpine Fault. It is also prone to flooding, wildfires and extreme weather events.

“We want people who understand the risks, challenges and opportunities to work with us.”

Key responsibilities of local advisory committee members:

– Assisting in identifying local risks, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.

– Actively developing and maintaining community relationships to share the needs and risks of those communities.

– Input into planning and reporting, providing a voice to advise how Fire and Emergency can make a difference.

– Considering and promoting the interests of local Fire and Emergency volunteers.

We’re looking for people who:

– Have diverse backgrounds, experience, and perspectives who can engage with a range of interest groups.

– Are leaders in their communities, businesses and industries who understand the unique needs and opportunities of their communities.

– Have a keen interest in supporting public safety and working collaboratively to make a positive impact.

– Have governance experience who can think strategically and pragmatically.

– Understand volunteerism given the large number of Fire and Emergency volunteers in the area.

More information about local advisory committees, what the role involves, and how to apply is on our website: www.fireandemergency.nz/LACs.

MIL OSI

ConsumerNZ reveals the best and worst insurance providers

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February 3, 2025

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Source: ConsumerNZ

Consumer NZ finds two insurers have topped the list for customer satisfaction across the insurance trifecta – car, house and contents.

Results from Consumer’s annual insurance satisfaction survey found MAS and FMG were rated highly by their customers, both earning Consumer’s People’s Choice award.

“This is the eighth consecutive year FMG has received the accolade, and customers have voted MAS for People’s Choice for nine consecutive years,” says Jon Duffy, Consumer NZ chief executive.

“Winning People’s Choice is no small feat. The fact these two providers have won People’s Choice across multiple insurance categories reflects their continued focus on customer satisfaction.”

The best

MAS and FMG are the top-rated insurers for house, car and contents insurance. Customers praise their value for money, easy-to-understand policy documents and products tailored to customers’ needs.

MAS had the highest overall satisfaction rating for house insurance at 76%, while FMG ranked highest for contents insurance at 78%. For car insurance, MAS and FMG also took out the top spots, with 81% and 79% respectively.

Duffy emphasises the importance of choosing an insurer that puts customers first.

“New Zealanders should expect their insurer to get the basics right – good communication and customer support – especially now, with insurers needing to update policies to comply with upcoming law changes.”

Consumer’s Insurance Satisfaction Survey found that while most banks scored below average for house and contents insurance, they generally perform better in travel insurance.

“Some banks scored higher for travel insurance, likely due to it being offered free through some credit cards.

“In today’s economy, value for money is a key factor in customer satisfaction.”

The worst

Big brands State and AMI (both owned by IAG New Zealand Ltd) scored below average for house and contents insurance, with significantly lower-than-average ratings for value for money, communication, customer support and tailored advice.

“It’s disappointing to see major insurers fall short of the industry average. We’d like to see these big names use their market share to improve customer satisfaction.”

Banks also underperformed when it came to car insurance.

“Four banks – ANZ, BNZ, Westpac and ASB – received below average ratings, with ASB at the very bottom of the pile.”

How to save on insurance

Consumer’s research1 shows that concerns about insurance costs have risen more than any other household expense over the past 2 years, as premiums continue to outstrip inflation. Duffy encourages consumers to regularly review their insurance policies to ensure they’re getting the best value.

“If you’re parking your car in a garage instead of the street – update your policy. We’ve found that switching providers could save you as much as $670 per year in our car insurance survey (ref. https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-fiihdx-ijjdkdttjk-j/ ).

“Adjusting your sum insured or excess are simple ways to lower those premiums,” he adds.

Consumer members can compare quotes for health, life, travel, house, contents and car insurance, as well as access Consumer’s independent insurance buying guide at consumer.org.nz.

Notes

1 Consumer NZ’s Insurance Satisfaction Survey was conducted online in October 2024, with 6,415 respondents, including Consumer NZ members, supporters and a nationally representative sample of over 1,500 New Zealanders.

Satisfaction is based on the proportion of respondents who rated their experience 8 to 10 out of 10, indicating they were “very satisfied”.

Learn more about Consumer’s People’s Choice award: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-fiihdx-ijjdkdttjk-i/

1 Insurance cost concerns have increased the most over the past 2 years, increasing from 13% to 27% of people listing it as a top-three concern.

MIL OSI

SH1 blocked near Topuni

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February 3, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police are advising motorists that State Highway 1 is currently blocked near Topuni.

At around 10.15am a truck rolled, blocking lanes in both directions near the intersections with Schiska and Otioro roads.

There are currently no reports of any injuries from the scene.

Motorists are advised that diversions will be put in place for both northbound and southbound traffic.

Expect delays on your travels while the scene is cleared.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

First charter schools open for 2025

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February 3, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Minister of Education, David Seymour, says that today is a great day for educational achievement in New Zealand. From today the first charter schools will begin teaching.
“As of today, the first lessons at Mastery Schools New Zealand – Arapaki, Te Rito, Te Kura Taiao and Ecole Francaise Internationale Auckland are underway. This is another significant step in the Government’s efforts to lift educational achievement in New Zealand,” says Mr Seymour.
“The next seven days will see the remaining four charter schools set to open at the start of Term 1 2025 begin teaching.
TIPENE will open on Thursday 6 February, The BUSY School will open on Friday 7 February, North West Creative Arts College and Christchurch North College will both open on Monday 10 February.
“Charter schools provide educators with greater autonomy and create diversity in New Zealand’s education system. They have been proven to raise overall educational achievement, especially for students who are underachieving or disengaged from the standard system,” says Mr Seymour.
“Every child deserves an education that gives them the opportunity to learn and grow in ways which are more specific to their needs. The seven charter schools which open over the next week are all fantastic examples of schools that give families and educators more meaningful educational choice and support.
“I want to thank the Charter School Agency and independent Authorisation Board for the work they have done to progress this important work. They oversaw a robust and fair process with 78 applications in the first round.
“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.
“The huge demand to open charter schools not only highlights the need, but also the commitment of people to provide varied educational opportunities for young New Zealanders to maximise educational outcomes. Positive education outcomes can lead to better health, higher incomes, better job stability and greater participation within communities. These are opportunities that every student deserves.”

MIL OSI

Health and Politics – GenPro focuses BIM on helping new Health Minister improve access to primary healthcare

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February 3, 2025

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Source: General Practice Owners Association (GenPro)

General practice owners, pleased the new Health Minister identifies access to primary healthcare as a top priority, have put forward their views on how Minister Brown could reduce waiting times to see a doctor.

In a Briefing to the Incoming Minister, the General Practice Owners Association focuses on three key actions critical to reducing waiting times.

GenPro Chair Dr Angus Chambers says doctors are on the same page as the Minister as every day they see the frustration of patients not able to make appointments in a timely way or register with their local GP.

Dr Chambers said improving access was more than just about funding, though that’s an important part of the solution in the short term.

“The new Health Minister needs to recognise the importance of primary healthcare and respond to its urgent need for financial support so it can deliver the essential services Kiwis need,” Dr Chambers says.

“Being enrolled with a GP means people are less likely to attend an emergency department, and it also reduces per-patient costs on our health system.

“Investment in hands-on general practice will directly support the government’s aim of reducing waiting times at emergency departments. No other investment has any evidence of supporting the achievement of this target,” Dr Chambers says.

Greater support right now for primary healthcare is critical. General practice has been degraded over two decades. Funding hasn’t kept pace with increasing costs, health needs are more complex, and the ability of general practices to raise revenue is restricted by fees controls. For all these reasons, general practice is in a precarious financial position, the BIM says.

GenPro’s three key areas to reducing waiting times are:

Better funding for primary health care services
Fair pay for family doctor teams
Increasing the family doctor workforce

While all are important, funding is a critical issue because it’s created or exacerbated other problems, such as staff shortages, crowded emergency departments, and reduced services as general practices restrict enrolments or exit after-hours care.

“Minister Brown has a lot to read to prepare for his new role, but GenPro’s briefing must be near the top of the pile. General practice is in a parlous state and his influence on funding is desperately needed so we can arrest the decline in primary healthcare, reduce waiting lists, and give communities the healthcare they need and deserve,” Dr Chambers says.

GenPro members are owners and providers of general practices and urgent care centres throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. For more information visit www.genpro.org.nz

GenPro-Briefing-to-Minister (ref. https://genpro.org.nz/assets/Uploads/PDFs/250123-GenPro-Briefing-to-Minister.pdf )

MIL OSI

Fire Safety – Fire restrictions eased for Wairarapa’s southern coast

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February 3, 2025

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has revoked the restrictions on lighting outdoor fires in Wairarapa’s southern coastal area until further notice.

From 8am Monday 3 February, all of Wairarapa will be in an open fire season, which means people can light outdoor fires without a permit approved by Fire and Emergency.

Wellington District Manager Brett Lockyer says that wetter, less windy conditions have slowed the rapid drying of vegetation such as pasture grasses, coastal dune grasses, gorse, scrub, and pine forests.

“The fire risk has come back down because any fires that get started or escape controlled burns will be slower-moving and easier to control,” he says.

“While you don’t need fire permits in an open season, we do still ask people to take sensible precautions when lighting fires.

“There’s excellent fire safety advice at checkitsalright.nz, which will also tell you if it’s safe to have an outdoor fire at your location.

“We’re really pleased to report that there haven’t been any large fires in Wairarapa so far this summer, and this is down to people being fire smart and doing the right thing.”

MIL OSI

Federated Farmers calls for doubling of QEII Trust funding

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February 3, 2025

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Source: Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers is calling on the Government to double its funding for the QEII National Trust to ensure it can continue to meet demand from farmers.

“The QEII Trust has a stellar track record of working with landowners to permanently protect special areas of bush, wetland and biodiversity,” Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst says.

“It’s an utter disgrace that QEII’s base government funding has remained unchanged at $4.3 million for a decade, despite rising demand for its help.

“In real terms, that’s a huge cut in funding.”

The QEII National Trust was established in 1977, with Federated Farmers dairy chair (the late) Gordon Stephenson a key instigator.

Its core function is to encourage protection of natural and cultural features on private land. The trust partners with landowners who voluntarily protect their land without selling or donating it.

Covenants ensure threatened species and special areas of bush and wetland are protected for future generations, in perpetuity. Subsequent landowners can’t alter this protection.

Covenants now cover 187,774 hectares – the vast majority on farms. That is an area of land over double the size of Tongariro National Park.

The QEII Trust celebrated its 4000 th covenant in 2014/15. Now, nearly 10 years later, it has 5,200 covenants to be managed and monitored – a 28% increase in demand, with no change in government base funding.

For comparison, the Department of Conservation’s funding went from $470m to $718m over that same 10-year period.

“With that big hike in the amount of covenanted land, there is clearly huge buy-in from farmers,” Hurst says.

“Voluntary initiatives like the QEII Trust have huge support in rural communities and are a far better approach than heavy-handed and impractical SNA rules.”

The trust leverages outside funding and bequests, and works with district and regional councils. In 2021 it also secured $8m of Jobs for Nature funding, spread over four years.

But that runs out in June this year and the trust is warning it will have to scale back the number of new covenants it can support.

A 2017 study by Waikato University’s Institute for Business Research found that covenanting landowners together spend an estimated $25 million of their own money every year to protect native species and special areas in their QEII covenants

Loss of potential income from other alternative uses of land under covenant was estimated to be between $443-$638 million between 1977 and 2017.

Farmers and other landowners pitch in with environmentalists, volunteers and council staff to carry out planting, pest control, fencing and other work on covenanted sites.

“It represents farmer commitment, and great bang for buck, on conservation.

“The Government needs to step up its contribution to keep up the pace,” Hurst says.

MIL OSI

SEYMOUR’S SCHOOL LUNCH PROGRAMME A FAILURE DAY ONE – Sir Ray Avery GNZM

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February 3, 2025

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Source: The Kaizen Group – Sir Ray Avery GNZM

OPINION PIECE – Sir Ray says “It was actually day two when David Seymour’s lunches arrived at schools one hour after lunchtime and principals described it as looking like dog food and they could not even give it away to food banks and it was dumped.”

The company who David Seymour awarded the $85 million School lunch programme contract to is the British-based multinational Compass Group, who lost one-third of their school contracts in the original school lunch programme due to poor quality in food and service.

Compass has been severely criticised for its catering supply in NZ hospitals.

Dr Kelly Garton, spokesperson for The Health Coalition Aotearoa (HCA), has significant concerns about the quality, nutritional standards and quality controls for the new school lunches programme.

“Cabinet has given a $85 million contract to a group led by a company that just months ago was forced to do a performance management plan due to poor quality and service,” said Dr Kelly Garton.

“Why should New Zealanders have confidence this model will deliver the nutrition and quality growing bodies and minds need?” Garton said.

Sir Ray Avery says he has faced a lot of critics on social media because he stated: “The Government doesn’t have any meaningful Governmental Nutritional Standards for School Lunches and this seemed to polarise New Zealanders some who endorsed the New School Lunch initiative and others though that this was the parents’ responsibility.

“Both sides of the political system seem to be focused on the process rather than outcomes,” said Sir Ray. “The real issue is what is the desired outcome? It’s trying to close the gap on equality by providing a nutritious meal (that gets eaten) by children who through no fault of their own don’t have the ‘luxury’ of packing one from home so they can focus at school and achieve better educational results and better long-term physical and mental health outcomes.

“Not $3 meals produced by a dodgy company with a terrible track record.”

David Seymour gave a $85-million-dollar contract to a company that day two “due to problems with their ovens were one hour late for lunchtime” and principals described it as $3 dog food and Seymour said “This is just program teething problems”.

Sir Ray is calling out Seymour for awarding the school lunch programme to a company that is well known for awful, sub-standard food in the hospital setting and with many many complaints from schools in the previous School lunch programme.

Sir Ray said “I can only presume his decision was based on price so Seymour could claim to have saved millions of dollars with respect to the previous School lunch programme costing $8 per serve but Seymour has wasted $85 million dollars because you can’t fix Compass quality and service problems and our kids will still go hungry because Seymour did not provide them something edible to eat.”

Sir Ray says, “Because our Tamariki are such a valuable asset for the future of New Zealand I think Seymour should resign because he has been negligent in appointing a company known for its poor performance with respect to the quality of the food it provides and any competent Minister would have done the necessary due diligence to ensure our Tamariki have the best possible start in life.”

MIL OSI

Palestine Forum of New Zealand Urges Government to Join the Hague Group in Support of Palestine

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February 3, 2025

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Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the New Zealand government to join the newly formed Hague Group, a coalition of nine nations committed to defending Palestinian rights and holding Israel accountable for its violations of international law.

The Hague Group—comprising South Africa, Malaysia, Namibia, Colombia, Bolivia, Chile, Senegal, Honduras, and Belize—has pledged to support the International Criminal Court (ICC) and International Court of Justice (ICJ) in prosecuting Israeli officials and enforcing legal measures against ongoing crimes in Palestine.

“New Zealand must take a stand for justice and align with nations committed to real action against Israeli war crimes,” said [Spokesperson’s Name]. The Forum urges Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters to demonstrate New Zealand’s commitment to human rights by joining this initiative.

MIL OSI