Author: MIL OSI Publisher

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One in seven New Zealand children living in hardship, new data shows

Source: Radio New Zealand

One in seven children are living in hardship in the latest recorded year, according to new data from Stats New Zealand.

The national statistics agency released the data for the year between July 2024 and June 2025 on Wednesday morning.

Around 17,900 households were interviewed for the research.

The number of children that were recorded as living in material hardship was 14.3 percent – one in seven.

There was no significant change in that from the year recorded prior or since 2018.

In the latest statistics, a child recorded as facing material hardship was recorded as being in a household going without seven or more of 18 necessities.

Those included being unable to pay for utilities on time, having to put up with feeling cold and putting off doctors visits.

That was a change to the year prior where the threshold for material hardship was six or more.

14.9 percent of Māori children were recorded in material hardship which was not statistically different to the year prior.

For Pacific children, that figure was 18.7 percent five points higher than in 2024.

17.8 percent of children lived in households with less than half of the 2018 year’s median equivalised disposable household income after housing costs were deducted.

That was not different to the year prior.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/one-in-seven-new-zealand-children-living-in-hardship-new-data-shows/

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Significance of UK border change only just being realised – travel correspondent

Source: Radio New Zealand

Gill Bonnett

The significance of changes to United Kingdom entry requirements has only just been realised, a British travel correspondent says.

Late last year, the British government announced anyone classed as a British citizen would soon need a valid UK passport to enter the country, or have to get a $1300 certificate in their foreign passport.

The change has ensnared dual British citizens.

The British government said it warned people of the impending changes but The Independent’s travel correspondent, Simon Calder, told Morning Report the communication had been woeful.

He said the impact had only just hit home in the past six weeks causing a lot of consternation, upset, and expense.

“I think it is absolutely the case that the British government did not come out … and say, ‘By the way when we make this finally compulsory, you do know that everything is going to change’.

“Because if they said it two years ago, people would be in a much, much better position than they are now.

“Yes, you can argue that you’re a dual citizen, you’re living abroad, you’ve got to keep your eye on stuff, but frankly it passed me by and I spend very little time doing anything other than looking a various new bits of bureaucracy.”

This week the British Home Office confirmed airlines could accept expired (post-1989) UK passports – should they wish to.

Calder said the take-up had been mixed, with British Airways, Easy Jet, and Virgin Atlantic confirming they would accept expired passports, but others such as Singapore Airlines had been a bit “enigmatic”.

He stressed, however, that it wasn’t as simple as showing up with a post-1989 passport and people needed to be careful not to get caught out.

“Things happen, people change their names, maybe they get married and that expired passport if it’s in a different name to your current New Zealand passport that is not going to work.”

Calder said the airport support hub should be able to help travellers.

Earlier this week, Travel Agents’ Association chief executive Julie White told Morning Report leaving it to the airlines’ discretion was risky.

“You can’t rely on that and look, it’s expensive, it’s stressful and you’ve taken annual leave so our suggestion is, you really should be travelling with the right documentation.

“We’re inundated with people contacting our travel agents around clarity because it really is confusing.”

She said airlines could only deal with the information they’d been provided and would face fines if they got it wrong.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/significance-of-uk-border-change-only-just-being-realised-travel-correspondent/

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Deputy PM David Seymour renews call to sell govt shares after Air NZ’s big half-year loss

Source: Radio New Zealand

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour criticised the airline, saying it should go back to the basics. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour has renewed his call for the government to sell its 51 percent stake in Air New Zealand after it reported a significant half-year loss.

The airline posted a bottom-line loss of $40 million in the six months ended December, compared to last year’s profit of $106m.

Revenue was up just over 1 percent to $3.44b, compared to $3.4b a year ago.

Seymour, also the leader of the ACT Party, criticised the airline, saying it should go back to the basics.

“The taxpayer has to have a purpose for having all that capital tied up. My question is, what is that purpose if they’re not providing a service that is affordable and timely? Instead, they seem to have been distracted by a million other objectives.”

Seymour said Air NZ had been doing “politically motivated stuff” when it couldn’t take off and land on time for a decent price.

“Get woke, go broke. We hear about electric planes, glossy reports on climate change, paper cups in the Koru Lounge. What they can’t seem to do is take off and land on time,” he said.

“I’m fortunate that as an MP I don’t have to pay for work flights, but whenever I look at one privately, they’re looking at $600 to go from Wellington to Invercargill one way. That’s crazy.”

Seymour’s comments come as the airline continues to face severe disruption due to grounded aircraft.

Air NZ said the half-year loss was largely driven by global engine maintenance delays, slower-than-expected recovery in domestic demand, increasing costs, and a weaker New Zealand dollar.

It said that while capacity would likely increase modestly in the second half with aircraft returning to service and new aircraft, the airline was cautious on whether it would translate to earnings uplift.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/26/deputy-pm-david-seymour-renews-call-to-sell-govt-shares-after-air-nzs-big-half-year-loss/

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Increasing household income offset by higher housing costs in year to June 2025 – Household income and housing-cost statistics: Year ended June 2025 – Stats NZ news story and information release

Source: Statistics New Zealand

Increasing household income offset by higher housing costs in year to June 2025 – news story
26 February 2026

Household income increased at a slightly higher rate than housing costs in the year ended June 2025, according to data released by Stats NZ today.

Average weekly household disposable income increased from $1,977.70 to $2,077.70 in the 12 months to June 2025, up 5.1 percent from the previous year (not adjusting for inflation).

Housing costs also increased between June 2024 and June 2025, for households with housing expenditure, the average weekly cost for housing increasing from $457.90 in 2024 to $478.00 in 2025, up 4.4 percent.

“While household income increased in the year ended June 2025, increasing housing costs meant households were spending a similar proportion of their income on housing as the previous year,” household financial statistics spokesperson Victoria Treliving said.

Follow the links for full information release and to download CSV files:

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/increasing-household-income-offset-by-higher-housing-costs-in-year-to-june-2025-household-income-and-housing-cost-statistics-year-ended-june-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-r/

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Pedalling progress for the scenic Waimate trail

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing $200,000 in the Waimate Trail as part of its ongoing commitment to grow local tourism, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced today.

“I’m thrilled to be partnering locally and investing in this trail that showcases the unique South Canterbury countryside. It will attract more visitors to the region, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities,” Louise Upston says.

This funding will complete stage one of the trail, a 13km stretch from Waimate to Waihao Forks and is part of the Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package. 

The local community has already raised around 80 per cent of the funding needed to complete stage one of the 67km trail, which traverses limestone rock formations, native forest, and scenic valleys.

“This trail will be popular with both locals and tourists celebrating South Canterbury’s rich history and stunning landscapes. 

“By backing local projects and encouraging tourism in the regions, we’re continuing to drive economic growth,” Louise Upston says. 

Notes to Editors

Once complete the Waimate Trail – Te Ara Waimatemate will be a 67 km loop trail that links with existing track networks.
Work has started on the cycle trail and stage one between Waimate and Waihao Forks is expected to be completed in late April/May

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/26/pedalling-progress-for-the-scenic-waimate-trail/

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Crown signs Deed of Settlement with Ngāti Ruapani

Source: New Zealand Government

The Crown and Ngāti Ruapani mai Waikaremoana have signed a Deed of Settlement at Tuai today, Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says.  

“After six years of negotiations we have reached a long-awaited agreement that acknowledges the past and looks to a stronger future. 

“It is a privilege to sign the Deed and deliver the Crown apology to Ngāti Ruapani in their rohe. 

“A key feature of the settlement is the return of Crown-owned land into Te  Urewera, reflecting a central aspiration of Ngāti Ruapani to restore their connection with Te Urewera. 

“The settlement includes an agreed historical account and redress for historical breaches of the Treaty of Waitangi which caused significant harm to generations of Ngāti Ruapani.” 

The redress package includes: 

  • $24 million financial redress;
  • Undivided half share of Patunamu Forestry Ltd; 
  • 4 commercial redress and 2 cultural redress properties; and
  • Approximately 12,000 hectares of land added into Te Urewera. 

“While no settlement can fully remedy the injustices of the past, this agreement represents an important step forward. I hope it will support Ngāti Ruapani to achieve their cultural and economic aspirations for future generations to come.”

Ngāti Ruapani are based in and around south Waikaremoana. The signing of this deed concludes settlement negotiations in Te Urewera.  

A copy of the deed of settlement is available online at: Te Tari Whakatau – Ngāti Ruapani. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/crown-signs-deed-of-settlement-with-ngati-ruapani/

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Police and Detector Dog Championships: Expert dog teams thrive in competition

Source: New Zealand Police

Hard-working dog teams from across Police, New Zealand Customs Service and Department of Corrections have been battling for the title of top dog and handler as they competed at the 51st Patrol and Detector Dog Championships this week.

This years’ event wrapped up with a prizegiving held at the Dog Training Centre in Trentham this afternoon.

The overall winner of this years’ competition was Senior Constable Aaron Senior and his dog Cole from Tasman District. 

Inspector Todd Southall says, Congratulations to Aaron and Cole for an almost clean sweep. It’s been an intense competition across three categories since Monday for all the operational dog teams.” 

“We’ve had experienced handlers in both patrol and detector categories competing this week. Consistency and confidence between handler and dog have determined who gets the points and a title.

Taking part in the Police Patrol Dog competition were six operational teams from Northland, Tāmaki Makaurau, Waikato, Tasman and Canterbury Districts.

Six narcotic detector dog teams also competed – two from Police (Northland and Tāmaki Makaurau), and two each from Customs and Corrections. 

The winning detector dog team is the formidable crew of Senior Constable Patrick Derbyshire and Ripper from Northland Police – a previous winner of the Narcotic Detector Dogs – Alan Symes Cup.

“Each of the teams start with a set of points and they’re put through a range of realistic but testing scenarios with points deducted for mistakes. The team that loses the least marks is the winner. The teams were marked on obedience, article retrieving, commands, tracking in grass, bush, operational scenarios, and criminal work, says Todd.

“All these dog teams do a fantastic job in helping keep our communities safe, says Todd.  They provide a critical frontline response, detection and prevention capability whether it’s on the street, at our borders or inside our prisons.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

NOTE: A more detailed story and list of all winners will be shared on Ten One next week.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/police-and-detector-dog-championships-expert-dog-teams-thrive-in-competition/

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Van owner arrested after crashing down a bank

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have arrested the owner of a van following a burglary in Christchurch that ended with a trailer detaching and the van crashing down a bank near Amberley.

Sergeant Nathan Wilson, of Canterbury Police, says the incident unfolded after a member of the public discovered a sign‑written trailer abandoned on the outskirts of Amberley.

“The caller phoned the number written on the trailer, and the owner then contacted Police,” Sergeant Wilson says.

The trailer had been stolen overnight from a Cole Porter Avenue address in Mairehau, Christchurch.

Police arrived at the scene finding the van’s owner back up with the trailer. A van was also found nearby, having crashed down a bank after the tow ball ripped free and remained lodged inside the trailer’s coupling.

“The driver was extremely lucky to walk away from this,” Sergeant Wilson says.

The van’s owner was arrested at the scene. He has been charged with burglary, two counts of theft relating to petrol drive-offs and possessing drug utensils. Further charges are likely pending testing of a substance found among his belongings.

Police are also investigating other offending committed in the Mairehau area overnight.

Police encourage anyone in Cole Porter Avenue, or the wider Mairehau area, who believes they may have information regarding offending, to contact us.

“This is also a great example of the public stepping up to help us,” Sergeant Wilson says. “A quick call from a member of the community helped us recover stolen property, identify the offender, and keep North Canterbury that little bit safer.”

If you have information please update us online now or call 105.

Please use reference number 260220/8839.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/van-owner-arrested-after-crashing-down-a-bank/

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Further appeal in Omahu homicide

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Kris Payne: 

Hawke’s Bay Police investigating the homicide of Sharlene Smith are releasing further information and appealing for public assistance.

On Tuesday, 3 February 2026, Police were called to a worksite on Taihape Road, Omahu, after Sharlene’s body was located on the property.

Through ongoing enquiries, Police have identified a likely route taken by a vehicle of interest. We know this vehicle was used on the day Sharlene’s body was left at the worksite, and officers have carried out extensive work to locate and review CCTV footage from the relevant timeframe.

Police are appealing for sightings of a white 2005 Mazda 3 sports hatchback between 8am and approximately midday on Sunday 1 February 2026, travelling from the Awatoto area, through Taihape Road/Omahu Road and the Fernhill area, and into Marewa, Napier. [see pictured map]

We are asking anyone who saw this vehicle, or who has home, business, or dashcam CCTV footage from those areas during that time, to please contact Police if not already spoken to.

Police are also seeking two items, belonging to Sharlene, that are believed to have been discarded along the same route:

  • a handbag [pictured], and
  • a Samsung Galaxy A06 mobile phone.

Anyone with information is urged to get in touch through 105, either online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105, or by calling 105, and referencing file number 260203/9739.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/further-appeal-in-omahu-homicide/

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Statement following sentencing of Nathan Boulter

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons, Christchurch Metro Crime:

Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Nathan Boulter for the murder of Chantal McDonald in the High Court at Christchurch. The 37-year-old will now serve a minimum of 17 years in prison without parole.

Today’s sentence will never bring Chantal back, or end the devastating sense of loss inflicted on her loving family.

There is no prison term that will ever make up for what happened to Chantal or the profound sense of loss her loved ones have had to endure.

However, today brings a small comfort in knowing the community will be protected from a violent, controlling and pathetic gutless coward who so needlessly took Chantal’s life.

It is extremely disappointing that he made the decision to not physically appear in Court today and face Chantal’s family.

Chantal was a much-loved and devoted mother, daughter, sister and friend. She was regarded as a vibrant and special person to all who knew her, which makes her loss even harder to bear for those who were lucky enough to know her.

We are continuing to provide support for Chantal’s family as they navigate life without her.

Her family have been extremely dignified throughout this entire process and I commend them for that.

They are appreciative of the support they have received, but request privacy. They ask that media do not attempt to contact them.

I want to thank all of the Police investigators, staff, and the Crown prosecutor who dedicated themselves to getting justice for Chantal.

They have worked relentlessly to bring this case to court and hold Chantal’s killer accountable for his horrendous crime.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/statement-following-sentencing-of-nathan-boulter/

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A forest on the brink of recovery: Kawau Island poised for a pest-free comeback

Source: Auckland Council

Te Kawau Tūmaro ō Tōi / Kawau Island’s forests are showing strong signs they can recover – when long-standing pressures from introduced mammalian pests are removed.

A new baseline forest monitoring report, prepared ahead of a major pest eradication programme, paints a clear picture of both the damage done by browsing animals such as wallabies and possums, and the hopeful future that could follow their removal. 

Once the programme is fully completed, Kawau could become one of the largest permanently inhabited islands in the Hauraki Gulf to be free of pest mammals.

Introduced to Kawau Island in the mid-to late-1800s, the four remaining species of wallabies have had a profound impact on the island’s forests. Alongside other pest mammals, they have heavily eaten seedlings and saplings, creating what ecologists describe as a “recruitment bottleneck”– where young plants struggle to grow into the next generation of forest.

Despite this, the forests have not lost their resilience.

Auckland Council’s Principal Specialist for Natural Environment Operations Lisa Tolich says the really encouraging thing is that the building blocks for recovery are still there.

“We’re seeing a dominance of native plants, plenty of seedlings waiting for their chance to grow, and bird communities that are still relatively intact. That tells us these ecosystems are ready to respond once the pressure is lifted.”

Kawau Island has been identified as a strategic priority area under Auckland Council’s Regional Pest Management Plan. The ‘working towards a pest-free Kawau Island’ programme is a collaborative effort led by Auckland Council with funding through the Natural Environment Targeted Rate as well as funding from central government and third-party philanthropic donations. The project is supported by the Manuhiri Kaitiaki Charitable Trust, the Department of Conservation and developed alongside the local community.

The programme is being rolled out in stages. Stage one, which began in autumn 2025, focuses on removing wallabies and possums – the primary browsing pests. A second stage, subject to feasibility, approvals, funding and further community engagement, would target mammalian predators such as rats and stoats.

Before any eradication work began, a network of forest monitoring plots was established across the island to capture a detailed snapshot of current forest health. This baseline allows scientists and land managers to track changes over time, understand how different forest types respond, and adapt management as needed.

The recent findings show recovery is unlikely to look the same everywhere.

Broadleaved forests with existing diversity are expected to bounce back more quickly, while kānuka-dominated areas and exotic forests may take longer to diversify. There is also a note of caution: removing browsing pressure could allow some invasive weeds, currently kept in check by pests, to spread rapidly if not closely monitored.

“Eradication isn’t the end of the story, it’s the beginning of a new phase of stewardship,” says Tolich.

“Ongoing monitoring will be critical so we can spot emerging issues early and respond before they become major problems.”

To do this, the report recommends re-measuring forest plots every two to three years in the short term, then every five years over the longer term. It also suggests targeted monitoring of high-value native species to better understand how individual populations respond to a pest-free future.

Chair of the Policy, Planning and Development Committee Councillor Richard Hills says the findings offer a hopeful message.

“While decades of browsing have destroyed native flora and held Kawau Island’s forests back, the potential for recovery is strong. 

“With sustained effort, careful monitoring and community support, Te Kawau Tūmaro ō Tōi forests will once again grow, regenerate and thrive which is promising news for the biodiversity of all of our Hauraki Gulf islands not just Kawau.”

Read the full report on Knowledge Auckland.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/24/a-forest-on-the-brink-of-recovery-kawau-island-poised-for-a-pest-free-comeback/

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Police didn’t check properly on man who died in custody, watchdog finds

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man was found unresponsive in a cell on October 6, 2023. (File photo) RNZ / REECE BAKER

Police officers did not provide proper checks on a man in custody before he was found unresponsive in his cell and later died, the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), has found.

The man died in hospital three days after being found unresponsive in a cell at the Auckland Custody Unit on October 6, 2023.

The IPCA found there were failings by police in the care of the man who died after self-harming in his cell.

The man had been taken into police custody after a stabbing at an Auckland dairy the day before and had told police he was “trying to reach heaven”.

It was reported the man was acting aggressively and erratically and tripped, falling to the ground while attempting to escape.

He was taken to the Auckland Custody Unit and while he was escorted inside, one of the officers tripped him, the IPCA said, unnecessarily, causing him to fall to his knees.

The officers involved said the man was very strong and believed to be on drugs. Three officers held him against a wall, with one officer holding him by the hair and pulling him off balance.

The IPCA said while the man was behaving erratically footage showed he was not significantly resisting and it was unnecessary for him to be held by the hair and taken to the ground.

The police sergeant in charge believed the man was experiencing psychosis or “excited delirium” and posed a risk to staff so he was put in a restraint chair.

He was taken to hospital due to the possibility of excited delirium, where he was sedated and discharged the same day.

The hospital noted was presenting as well and didn’t appear to be at an increased risk to himself or others.

A police doctor said the man could be place on frequent monitoring in his call, requiring him to be checked five times an hour, rather than constant monitoring.

The IPCA said given the advice from the hospital, this decision could not be criticised.

Overnight, police recorded completing 80 checks on the man but more than half did not appear to be done in line with police policy as officers watched him on a CCTV screen rather than physically entering the cell.

Thirty checks of the man were recorded the next morning, but these included looking at CCTV, talking to him over the intercom and checking on the man from the officer’s work stations.

“In our view, these checks were inconsistent with policy as the officer did not go to the cell,” the IPCA said.

Shortly before 11am, an officer checked on the man and found him unresponsive. He was given first aid and taken to Auckland City Hospital where he died three days later as a result of suspected self-harm.

“From the footage, it is apparent to us that the man was listening for, and observing, staff movements looking for an opportunity to self-harm. While we cannot say that this tragic incident could have been prevented, proper checks would have reduced the opportunity for it to occur,” the IPCA said.

Auckland City District Commander, Superintendent Sunny Patel, said after the death an investigation began along with a review into the prisoner checking system.

Patel said several “learnings” had now been put into place including updating their people in police custody policy.

“We would also like to again extend our condolences to the man’s family and friends.”

The man’s death remained before the Coroner.

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/police-didnt-check-properly-on-man-who-died-in-custody-watchdog-finds/

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No annual change in child poverty rates for year ended June 2025 – Child poverty statistics: Year ended June 2025 – Stats NZ news story and information release

Source: Statistics New Zealand

No annual change in child poverty rates for year ended June 2025 – news story
26 February 2026

No statistically significant movements occurred in child poverty rates in the year ended June 2025, compared with the year ended June 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

“While child poverty rates haven’t changed compared to the previous year, there have been decreases in two of the primary measures of child poverty since the year ended June 2018,” social and environment spokesperson Abby Johnston said.

There is no single official measure of child poverty in Aotearoa New Zealand. The Child Poverty Reduction Act 2018 (the Act) sets out a multi-level, multi-measure approach, consisting of four primary and six supplementary measures.

Follow the links for full information:

Information release and to download CSV files:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/no-annual-change-in-child-poverty-rates-for-year-ended-june-2025-child-poverty-statistics-year-ended-june-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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Increasing household income offset by higher housing costs in year to June 2025 – Household income and housing-cost statistics: Year ended June 2025 – Stats NZ news story and information release

Source: Statistics New Zealand

Increasing household income offset by higher housing costs in year to June 2025 – news story
26 February 2026

Household income increased at a slightly higher rate than housing costs in the year ended June 2025, according to data released by Stats NZ today.

Average weekly household disposable income increased from $1,977.70 to $2,077.70 in the 12 months to June 2025, up 5.1 percent from the previous year (not adjusting for inflation).

Housing costs also increased between June 2024 and June 2025, for households with housing expenditure, the average weekly cost for housing increasing from $457.90 in 2024 to $478.00 in 2025, up 4.4 percent.

“While household income increased in the year ended June 2025, increasing housing costs meant households were spending a similar proportion of their income on housing as the previous year,” household financial statistics spokesperson Victoria Treliving said.

Follow the links for full information release and to download CSV files:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/increasing-household-income-offset-by-higher-housing-costs-in-year-to-june-2025-household-income-and-housing-cost-statistics-year-ended-june-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-informati/

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Child poverty statistics show that children are being let down by flawed economic model

Source: WEAll Aotearoa New Zealand

The latest child poverty statistics released today show our country is backsliding on any of the progress made since the Child Poverty Reduction Act was passed.
While Statistics NZ reports no statistically significant change in headline child poverty rates in the year ended June 2025 compared with June 2024, the longer-term trend shows that hardship has increased.
The percentage of children living in households experiencing material hardship was 13.3 percent in the year ended June 2018. That figure steadily declined to 10.6 percent by 2022, but has since risen again to 14.3 percent in the year ended June 2025, now higher than the 2018 baseline.
Rates are significantly higher for some groups. In the year ended June 2025:
  • 25.1 percent of tamariki Māori are living in material hardship
  • 31 percent of Pacific children, and 
  • 26.9 percent of disabled children.
WEAll Aotearoa Director Gareth Hughes says material hardship is an important measure: “At its heart, it measures whether a family can afford the basics for a life of dignity. Things like being able to keep the house warm, wearing shoes in good condition, having fresh fruit and vegetables, and kids being able to have a birthday or Christmas present.”
Previously, the Minister of Finance has said “The most fundamental thing that will help those targets is if we have a faster-growing economy with lower unemployment, better wage growth”.
Yet, Professor Paul Dalziel, Research Economist for WEAll says the data shows economic growth does not reduce child poverty.
“New Zealand’s GDP per person grew by around 75 per cent between 1984 and 2024. Yet children living in low income households increased from 14% to 21%,” Dalziel said.
“For 40 years, we’ve tested the theory that growth will lift children out of poverty. The evidence shows it does not.”
Hughes says we need to shift gears. “Instead of assuming trickle-down economics or more ambulances at the bottom of the cliff will solve the problem, we need a deliberate redesign of our economic system to tackle inequality”.
One practical alternative is the economic development approach of Community Wealth Building. This approach focuses on keeping wealth circulating locally: strengthening employment, supporting local enterprises, and building resilient regional economies.
“We need new jobs that pay living wages. We need to unlock community wealth building so prosperity stays in local communities instead of being siphoned out of them,” he said.
“That means using public investment, local procurement, and anchor institutions to build strong regional economies where families have the resources they need.”
“Scotland just passed a law making this mandatory for central and local government and we should follow their lead.”
Hughes says, “the persistence of child and whanau poverty in a wealthy country reflects a flawed economic system, and these numbers show New Zealand’s economic model is failing future generations”.
“An economy that works for future generations must put people at the centre,” Hughes says. “Right now, we’re measuring success in GDP while thousands of children grow up without what they need to thrive.”
“A wellbeing economy recognises that children’s wellbeing today shapes the country’s social and economic future. Their wellbeing should be treated as a core economic indicator”.
Hughes said the country faces a clear choice: “We can continue chasing growth and hope it trickles down (although we know it won’t). Or we can build an economy designed from the start to ensure every child has enough to thrive.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/child-poverty-statistics-show-that-children-are-being-let-down-by-flawed-economic-model/

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NRL kicks off in Vegas this weekend

Source: Radio New Zealand

National Rugby League players Spencer Leniu (3rd L), Billy Walters (5th L), Aaron Woods (C) and Campbell Graham (3rd R) pose with Las Vegas showgirls, an Elvis impersonator and Fijian warriors. Vegas Promo Tour at Allegiant Stadium on December 12, 2023. David Becker

The National Rugby League competition kicks off on Sunday in Las Vegas, with four teams making the trip to start the season – the Knights, Cowboys, Bulldogs and Dragons.

This is the third year the NRL has taken its first round to Las Vegas to put on a showpiece for the American market.

But it’s also round one of 27 to try and make it to the much-coveted grand final.

Bulldogs winger Marcelo Montoya said they still needed to focus on the result.

“For us it’s important that we get the two points,” he said.

“I know we’re going there to play and it’s exciting but at the top of our minds when we go there – the two points is what’s important for us.”

The Bulldogs play the Dragons in Vegas, after the Knights and Cowboys open season 2026 at the 65,000-capacity Allegiant Stadium.

It’s a long way from home for all of the teams, but some fans are expected to follow them over to Sin City.

Knights centre Dane Gagai said Newcastle fans tended to come out of the woodwork in most places.

“Knights fans turn up everywhere,” he said.

“No matter where you go, up north Queensland, they’re just everywhere, so I’m sure we’re going to have a fairly good turnout over in Vegas.

“I know people have already got their tickets and they’ve been mentioning that they can’t wait to get over there and watch us play, so hopefully we cannot disappoint.”

The Vegas season opener was introduced to the NRL in 2024.

On offer this week have been the Las Vegas Nines, a signing session, a school gala, and OzFest, and Scotland will play the USA in a triple header – the under-19 youth teams, the women’s sides and the men’s teams – at Cougar Stadium.

Super League teams Hull and Leeds will kick off the match day, which is Saturday local time, Sunday for most of the Pacific.

Game one of the new season kicks off at 1:15pm on Sunday (AEDT) – Knights versus Cowboys.

Now-retired Cowboy Chad Townsend told the NRL’s Game Plan show about the players to watch in his old team.

“For me the keys to attack for the North Queensland Cowboys… Scott Drinkwater… led the Cowboys in line-break assists and try assists last year.

“Tom Deardon – obviously the show-and-go we know is elite, defensively very sound, great leader; and Jaxon Purdue.”

After the Vegas games, the remainder of round one continues in Australia – and in Auckland, for the Warriors hosting the Roosters – from 5-8 March.

The Broncos are the defending champions. They also made it to the final of the World Club Challenge earlier this month, but lost 30-24 to Hull.

The Broncos will face the Panthers in the first round.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/nrl-kicks-off-in-vegas-this-weekend/

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‘Lot of urgency’ for Tall Blacks ahead of Fiba World Cup qualifying games

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tall Blacks and Australian NBL players like Reuben Te Rangi will be looking for different contracts in the off-season. www.photosport.nz

The winless Tall Blacks hit the road this week faced with the duel challenge of qualification for next year’s Fiba World Cup hanging in the balance and players leaving camp early to chase lucrative overseas contracts.

Home and away defeats against Australia late last year put New Zealand on the back foot in the Asian Qualifiers.

The Tall Blacks need a win against the Philippines on Friday or Guam on Sunday to keep hopes of finishing in the top three in their qualification group alive.

New Zealand’s road to qualifying for the world cup for an eighth time started in November and will not conclude until March next year – all things going to plan.

But the Tall Blacks’ campaign could come to a halt as soon as July if they do not start winning.

Head coach Judd Flavell said there was a “lot of urgency” to get results in this window.

“We need to win as many games as we can, it doesn’t mean that if we lose this game it is all over but there is a lot of importance on these two games in this window and the same can be said for every window after this.”

Flavell will have a strong core of players to call on against the undefeated Philippines including New Zealand Breakers teammates Reuben Te Rangi, Taylor Britt, Max Darling, Carlin Davison, Alex McNaught and Sam Mennenga as well as Brisbane Bullets trio Tyrell Harrison, Taine Murray and Tohi Smith-Milner.

Akita Northern Happinets centre Yanni Wetzell is also back for the first game while Jordan Ngatai’s return to the black singlet will see him add to his 93 appearances.

But some of those players will leave camp before the Guam game.

“We have some players who have made themselves available [for the Philippines game] but they’re moving on to [club] contracts and the thing with these international windows is they are during the seasons and the Australian NBL season has come to an end for most of the guys in our squad and so those guys have got another contract that they’re looking to go to and some of those contracts are quite lucrative.

“Guys have put up their hand to come along to this first game because they know how important this one is and we’ve got another great chance to develop our depth in the second game.”

Big men Wetzell, Mennenga and Harrison are names that are likely to be missing as they take up new club contracts.

The Tall Blacks sit dejected after their loss during the FIBA World Cup Qualifier against Australia. Marty Melville/ Photosport

Flavell said the unavailability of players at different times of the year, either through college seasons in the United States or club contracts around the world, was the “number one challenge” the Tall Blacks faced.

“When it comes down to it you really want to try to build as much continuity as you can and that’s going to result in taking steps forward and having progression.

“But it is what it is, it’s to no one’s fault it’s just how it works and we’ve got to do the best we can and be problem solvers.

“It effects all countries, but if you look at a some of the super power teams, and Australia is one of those super power teams, with the depth they have and some of the other countries for a smaller country like us we’re probably effected a little bit more.

“It’s a funny old season the international qualification windows where you come together for a few days and play a couple of games and then you don’t see each other for three months and then you come together and try to do it again really quickly.”

Flavell has had mixed results against the Philippines.

His first game in charge of the national team in November 2024 was a loss to the Gilas in Manila. It was the first time the Tall Blacks had lost to them.

However, last year Flavell guided the team to two wins over Philippines in Asia Cup qualifiers to take the head-to-head to six wins for the Tall Blacks.

Back in “basketball-mad” Manila, Flavell said New Zealand would face a “hostile” environment fuelled by around 20,000 Gilas supporters.

Having played a number of times over the last 12 months Flavell said they “have great familiarity” with what the Philippines will put on the floor and did not expect any surprises.

Following their showdown with the Philippines, the Tall Blacks travel to Guam.

Flavell and many of the roster had not been to Guam before.

Like the Tall Blacks, Guam are at the bottom of the Group A standings with two losses, against Philippines, in the first window.

New Zealand has taken care of Guam in their two previous match-ups, with a 125-43 win back in 1999 and more recently a 113-94 win during the 2020 Fiba Asia Cup Qualifying campaign but Flavell said the current Guam team they knew less about.

“It’s always a bit of danger when you don’t know so much about your opposition”.

Guam host Australia in the first game in this window.

The third qualifier window is in July, when Philippines and Guam both come to Auckland.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/lot-of-urgency-for-tall-blacks-ahead-of-fiba-world-cup-qualifying-games/

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Police didn’t check properly on man who died in custody, watchdog finds

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man was found unresponsive in a cell on October 6, 2023. (File photo) RNZ / REECE BAKER

Police officers did not provide proper checks on a man in custody before he was found unresponsive in his cell and later died, the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), has found.

The man died in hospital three days after being found unresponsive in a cell at the Auckland Custody Unit on October 6, 2023.

The IPCA found there were failings by police in the care of the man who died after self-harming in his cell.

The man had been taken into police custody after a stabbing at an Auckland dairy the day before and had told police he was “trying to reach heaven”.

It was reported the man was acting aggressively and erratically and tripped, falling to the ground while attempting to escape.

He was taken to the Auckland Custody Unit and while he was escorted inside, one of the officers tripped him, the IPCA said, unnecessarily, causing him to fall to his knees.

The officers involved said the man was very strong and believed to be on drugs. Three officers held him against a wall, with one officer holding him by the hair and pulling him off balance.

The IPCA said while the man was behaving erratically footage showed he was not significantly resisting and it was unnecessary for him to be held by the hair and taken to the ground.

The police sergeant in charge believed the man was experiencing psychosis or “excited delirium” and posed a risk to staff so he was put in a restraint chair.

He was taken to hospital due to the possibility of excited delirium, where he was sedated and discharged the same day.

The hospital noted was presenting as well and didn’t appear to be at an increased risk to himself or others.

A police doctor said the man could be place on frequent monitoring in his call, requiring him to be checked five times an hour, rather than constant monitoring.

The IPCA said given the advice from the hospital, this decision could not be criticised.

Overnight, police recorded completing 80 checks on the man but more than half did not appear to be done in line with police policy as officers watched him on a CCTV screen rather than physically entering the cell.

Thirty checks of the man were recorded the next morning, but these included looking at CCTV, talking to him over the intercom and checking on the man from the officer’s work stations.

“In our view, these checks were inconsistent with policy as the officer did not go to the cell,” the IPCA said.

Shortly before 11am, an officer checked on the man and found him unresponsive. He was given first aid and taken to Auckland City Hospital where he died three days later as a result of suspected self-harm.

“From the footage, it is apparent to us that the man was listening for, and observing, staff movements looking for an opportunity to self-harm. While we cannot say that this tragic incident could have been prevented, proper checks would have reduced the opportunity for it to occur,” the IPCA said.

Auckland City District Commander, Superintendent Sunny Patel, said after the death an investigation began along with a review into the prisoner checking system.

Patel said several “learnings” had now been put into place including updating their people in police custody policy.

“We would also like to again extend our condolences to the man’s family and friends.”

The man’s death remained before the Coroner.

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/26/police-didnt-check-properly-on-man-who-died-in-custody-watchdog-finds/

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Child poverty statistics show that children are being let down by flawed economic model

Source: WEAll Aotearoa New Zealand

The latest child poverty statistics released today show our country is backsliding on any of the progress made since the Child Poverty Reduction Act was passed.
While Statistics NZ reports no statistically significant change in headline child poverty rates in the year ended June 2025 compared with June 2024, the longer-term trend shows that hardship has increased.
The percentage of children living in households experiencing material hardship was 13.3 percent in the year ended June 2018. That figure steadily declined to 10.6 percent by 2022, but has since risen again to 14.3 percent in the year ended June 2025, now higher than the 2018 baseline.
Rates are significantly higher for some groups. In the year ended June 2025:
  • 25.1 percent of tamariki Māori are living in material hardship
  • 31 percent of Pacific children, and 
  • 26.9 percent of disabled children.
WEAll Aotearoa Director Gareth Hughes says material hardship is an important measure: “At its heart, it measures whether a family can afford the basics for a life of dignity. Things like being able to keep the house warm, wearing shoes in good condition, having fresh fruit and vegetables, and kids being able to have a birthday or Christmas present.”
Previously, the Minister of Finance has said “The most fundamental thing that will help those targets is if we have a faster-growing economy with lower unemployment, better wage growth”.
Yet, Professor Paul Dalziel, Research Economist for WEAll says the data shows economic growth does not reduce child poverty.
“New Zealand’s GDP per person grew by around 75 per cent between 1984 and 2024. Yet children living in low income households increased from 14% to 21%,” Dalziel said.
“For 40 years, we’ve tested the theory that growth will lift children out of poverty. The evidence shows it does not.”
Hughes says we need to shift gears. “Instead of assuming trickle-down economics or more ambulances at the bottom of the cliff will solve the problem, we need a deliberate redesign of our economic system to tackle inequality”.
One practical alternative is the economic development approach of Community Wealth Building. This approach focuses on keeping wealth circulating locally: strengthening employment, supporting local enterprises, and building resilient regional economies.
“We need new jobs that pay living wages. We need to unlock community wealth building so prosperity stays in local communities instead of being siphoned out of them,” he said.
“That means using public investment, local procurement, and anchor institutions to build strong regional economies where families have the resources they need.”
“Scotland just passed a law making this mandatory for central and local government and we should follow their lead.”
Hughes says, “the persistence of child and whanau poverty in a wealthy country reflects a flawed economic system, and these numbers show New Zealand’s economic model is failing future generations”.
“An economy that works for future generations must put people at the centre,” Hughes says. “Right now, we’re measuring success in GDP while thousands of children grow up without what they need to thrive.”
“A wellbeing economy recognises that children’s wellbeing today shapes the country’s social and economic future. Their wellbeing should be treated as a core economic indicator”.
Hughes said the country faces a clear choice: “We can continue chasing growth and hope it trickles down (although we know it won’t). Or we can build an economy designed from the start to ensure every child has enough to thrive.”

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/child-poverty-statistics-show-that-children-are-being-let-down-by-flawed-economic-model/

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No annual change in child poverty rates for year ended June 2025 – Child poverty statistics: Year ended June 2025 – Stats NZ news story and information release

Source: Statistics New Zealand

No annual change in child poverty rates for year ended June 2025 – news story
26 February 2026

No statistically significant movements occurred in child poverty rates in the year ended June 2025, compared with the year ended June 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

“While child poverty rates haven’t changed compared to the previous year, there have been decreases in two of the primary measures of child poverty since the year ended June 2018,” social and environment spokesperson Abby Johnston said.

There is no single official measure of child poverty in Aotearoa New Zealand. The Child Poverty Reduction Act 2018 (the Act) sets out a multi-level, multi-measure approach, consisting of four primary and six supplementary measures.

Follow the links for full information:

Information release and to download CSV files:

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/no-annual-change-in-child-poverty-rates-for-year-ended-june-2025-child-poverty-statistics-year-ended-june-2025-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/