Category: AM-NC

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Government policies are increasing child poverty

Source: NZCTU

NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi president Sandra Grey is blaming the Government for new data released by Stats NZ today that shows child poverty continuing to be a stain on New Zealand.

“Working to reduce inequality for families should be the top priority for politicians. This Government was elected to reduce costs, but their policies are leading to increased poverty and material hardship,” said Grey.

“Child poverty continues to trend upwards. The data shows that one in eight children live in poverty before housing costs, one in six after housing costs. That means one in seven children living are living in material poverty. There has been little improvement in the data over the past year, and on all three core measures of poverty the data has got worse since 2023.

“The biggest worry should that 23,700 more children are living in material poverty since 2023, up 16%. That means that they are going without the absolute basics including food, clothing, and heating.

“Progress on reducing child poverty has gone backwards over the past two years and it’s no wonder given the Government is making the cost-of-living crisis worse. They have cut the minimum wage in real terms, kept benefits low, and increased costs for essentials including prescriptions and travel costs.

“Tackling child poverty should be a top priority of this Government, but instead they are focused on cutting services to fund tax cuts for landlords and big business,” said Grey.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/26/government-policies-are-increasing-child-poverty/

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Ministers say ‘tough on crime’ working as new figures unveiled

Source: Radio New Zealand

The government says its tough on crime approach has driven a significant drop in the number of victims of violent crime.

It comes as the latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey reported 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith put this down to the coalition’s approach to law and order and the near doubling of police foot patrols.

“Since day one, we’ve been working tirelessly to restore real consequences for crime, and to place victims back at the centre of the justice system,” he said.

“We have reformed the sentencing regime so those who cause the most harm are imprisoned for longer, given Police effective tools to deal with gangs, stopped taxpayer funding for the proliferation of cultural reports, made stalking an illegal and jailable offence, given victims of sexual assault the power to determine if offenders are granted name suppression, restored Three Strikes, and much more.”

Police Minister Mark Mitchell and Prime Minister Christopher Luxon speak on the latest crime statistics. RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson

Police Minister Mark Mitchell said higher police visibility in communities was helping deter crime and keep criminals off the streets.

“Our investment into the frontline has seen 12 new and expanded beat teams stood up nationwide, including the launch of a beat team in Hamilton this week.

“Our beat officers do an outstanding job at keeping the public, businesses and retailers safe. We know there is a lot more to do but these results show we are heading in the right direction.”

Goldsmith said while the government was tracking ahead on its violent crime reduction target it still had more work to do.

“This is going to be another busy year. We just announced plans to provide police with the power to issue move-on orders to deal with disorderly behaviour.

“Our Crimes Amendment Bill is making its way through the house, and legislation to strengthen trespass laws will soon be introduced.”

Children’s Minister Karen Chhour said Oranga Tamariki figures showed there had been a 22 per cent drop in serious repeat youth offending compared with when the Government came into office.

“This is well ahead of our target of a 15 per cent drop before 2030,” she said.

“We promised to fix what matters to New Zealanders. Ram raids are down 85 per cent. Kiwis are no longer being expected to live in fear that their cars have been stolen and used by young offenders in a ram raid of our local small businesses.

“Young offenders are avoiding re-offending because they know Courts, Oranga Tamariki and Police are working together more closely. They know now that their actions will have consequences.”

The livestream is due to start about 1.30pm and will be at the top of this page.

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/ministers-say-tough-on-crime-working-as-new-figures-unveiled/

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Defence Force to test air, land, and sea drones from Mount Maunganui company

Source: Radio New Zealand

Supplied

The Defence Force is going to begin testing air, land and sea drones from a Mount Maunganui company.

Syos Aerospace drones are used in Ukraine and it recently took another step towards helping develop ‘wingman drones’ for the UK’s Apache attack helicopters, including for strike and target acquisition

The government said the trial of the combat-proven tech would strengthen capability while growing local industry.

“Having cutting-edge drone technology developed and supported by local businesses will reduce supply chain risk and strengthen our resilience,” said Defence Minister Judith Collins in a statement on Thursday.

Neither the Beehive or Syos’ media releases said how many drones or what the deal was worth. RNZ has asked for more information.

The trials in coming months would include transporting supplies, and doing maritime patrols and route reconnaissance.

Supplied

NZDF said it was looking at integrating the drones with a fire control system designed and built in New Zealand by European firm Hirtenberger.

New Zealand consulting firm Sysdoc would support training.

Defence ran consultations with companies in January around a potential plan for surveillance drones to scour the Pacific.

Its long-range drone project has a ballpark budget of $100-$300 million over four years. Other sums would be spent on AI in behind that.

Budget 2025 funded counter-drone systems – say, that shoot down drones – as one of 15 “priority” projects, but not maritime or other drones.

Supplied

Collins said the Syos deal was exactly what the recently released defence industry strategy called for, for delivering on the $12 billion defence capability plan.

The army and navy get to test Syos’ SG400 Uncrewed Ground Vehicle, SM300 Uncrewed Surface Vessel, SA2 ISR drone and SA7 one-way effector drone.

The NZDF has been part of big drone-testing exercises by the US and other Five Eyes partners in recent years, but last year took just a single drone to one such joint exercise in Australia.

Syos said it was delighted.

Syos chief executive and founder Sam Vye. Supplied

“Our platforms and systems have been proven in some of the world’s most demanding environments, and we’re proud to bring that experience to New Zealand’s capability development,” said chief executive and founder Sam Vye.

“Structured experimentation” at NZDF aligned with how they worked, he added.

The NZDF is trying to align itself with its Australian counterpart on emerging military tech. This was an objective of the AUKUS Pillar Two agreement; NZ has not joined that agreement but was still pushing to become more interoperable as combat, reconnaissance and other tech becomes more advanced.

Australia announced a three-year research project into counter-drone technology this week.

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/defence-force-to-test-air-land-and-sea-drones-from-mount-maunganui-company/

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David Seymour renews call to sell government’s Air NZ shares after half-year loss

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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/david-seymour-renews-call-to-sell-governments-air-nz-shares-after-half-year-loss/

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Watch live: Christopher Luxon talks law and order as latest crime stats unveiled

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is taking questions after the announcement of a new crime figures.

It comes as the latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey reported 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith put this down to the coalition’s approach to law and order and the near doubling of police foot patrols.

“Since day one, we’ve been working tirelessly to restore real consequences for crime, and to place victims back at the centre of the justice system,” he said.

“We have reformed the sentencing regime so those who cause the most harm are imprisoned for longer, given Police effective tools to deal with gangs, stopped taxpayer funding for the proliferation of cultural reports, made stalking an illegal and jailable offence, given victims of sexual assault the power to determine if offenders are granted name suppression, restored Three Strikes, and much more.”

Police Minister Mark Mitchell said higher police visibility in communities was helping deter crime and keep criminals off the streets.

“Our investment into the frontline has seen 12 new and expanded beat teams stood up nationwide, including the launch of a beat team in Hamilton this week.

“Our beat officers do an outstanding job at keeping the public, businesses and retailers safe. We know there is a lot more to do but these results show we are heading in the right direction.”

Goldsmith said while the government was tracking ahead on its violent crime reduction target it still had more work to do.

“This is going to be another busy year. We just announced plans to provide police with the power to issue move-on orders to deal with disorderly behaviour.

“Our Crimes Amendment Bill is making its way through the house, and legislation to strengthen trespass laws will soon be introduced.”

Children’s Minister Karen Chhour said Oranga Tamariki figures showed there had been a 22 per cent drop in serious repeat youth offending compared with when the Government came into office.

“This is well ahead of our target of a 15 per cent drop before 2030,” she said.

“We promised to fix what matters to New Zealanders. Ram raids are down 85 per cent. Kiwis are no longer being expected to live in fear that their cars have been stolen and used by young offenders in a ram raid of our local small businesses.

“Young offenders are avoiding re-offending because they know Courts, Oranga Tamariki and Police are working together more closely. They know now that their actions will have consequences.”

The livestream is due to start about 1.30pm and will be at the top of this page.

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/watch-live-christopher-luxon-talks-law-and-order-as-latest-crime-stats-unveiled/

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Police and Health warn of dangers of nitrous oxide

Source: New Zealand Police

Police and the Ministry of Health are working together in response to growing concerns about the misuse of nitrous oxide, particularly when it is used by drivers. Nitrous oxide is also known by other names, including nangs, laughing gas, and nos.

Police is increasingly concerned by the growing number of incidents involving drivers inhaling nitrous oxide and putting themselves, their passengers, and other road users at risk.

Assistant Commissioner of Road Policing and District Support Tusha Penny says any substance that affects judgement, coordination, or consciousness can have deadly consequences when someone is behind the wheel.

“Police is concerned with the immediate danger this is posing on the road,” says Assistant Commissioner Penny.

“We are now seeing an increase in the use of nitrous oxide as a factor in a number of serious crashes, including some crashes where people have died.”

While investigations into individual crashes continue, the risks are clear and grave: inhaling nitrous oxide can rapidly cause dizziness, confusion, and blackouts.

“We appreciate where the public has called Police to report instances of people using nitrous oxide in vehicles. We have taken action in response to those calls, and they have helped prevent harm and likely saved lives.”

Police is also engaging with retailers and reminding them that the sale of nitrous oxide is illegal for recreational use under the Psychoactive Substances Act.

“We will be providing letters to retailers in areas where this is a known issue over the coming weeks to remind them of their obligations.”

Police will take a graduated response to the unlawful supply of nitrous oxide, with a focus on engagement, education and encouragement, alongside enforcement where appropriate.

“We will continue to work alongside our partner agencies, monitor the situation closely, and step up to enforcement if we need to,” Assistant Commissioner Penny says.

The Ministry of Health’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Joe Bourne says that reports from Police of nitrous oxide misuse linked with driving are a particular concern.

He says that nitrous oxide can cause significant harm when misused for recreational inhalation, and those harms are magnified when combined with driving.  Mixing nitrous oxide with alcohol or other drugs can have unpredictable effects and increase the risk of harm. 

“Nitrous oxide may seem relatively harmless, but it can cause real damage. When it’s inhaled, the gas pushes oxygen out of your lungs and bloodstream, which can make you dizzy, cause you to black out, or even be life threatening in some cases,” says Dr Bourne. 

“It should go without saying, that dizzyness or blackouts while driving are extremely dangerous.”

Inhaling nitrous oxide can also have long-term effects.

“Separately we know that heavy, frequent, or chronic use can cause nerve damage, leading to, weakness, numbness, and long-term  problems with movement or coordination,” says Dr Bourne.

Dr Bourne says unfortunately health professionals are the ones who see the harms from drug misuse, and it’s important to raise awareness about them. 

He advises individuals to contact their health care provider if anyone has used these products and is concerned about their health.  The Ministry will work with Health New Zealand to raise awareness of the harms caused to physical and mental health by the recreational use of nitrous oxide.

If you’re concerned about your own drinking or drug taking, you can reach out to the Alcohol Drug Helpline on 0800 787 797, or text 8681.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/26/police-and-health-warn-of-dangers-of-nitrous-oxide/

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David Seymour renews call to sell government Air NZ’s shares after half-year loss

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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/david-seymour-renews-call-to-sell-government-air-nzs-shares-after-half-year-loss/

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Parliamentary and business delegation to visit Latin America

Source: New Zealand Government

Foreign Minister Winston Peters will lead a Parliamentary and business delegation to Latin America next week, highlighting the strategic importance of New Zealand’s ties with the region. 

 “This trip is a timely opportunity to strengthen our relationships in Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Uruguay – and to identify areas we can work together to navigate an increasingly uncertain global environment,” Mr Peters says. 

 “Our Latin American partners are important to us and this visit will raise our commercial profile in the region and create opportunities for New Zealand businesses. The delegation will promote New Zealand’s reputation as a provider of innovative, high-quality products and services and help create new commercial linkages. Latin American markets offer exciting potential for New Zealand exporters.” 

 Mr Peters will be accompanied by a business delegation as well as a group of MPs from across Parliament: 

Nicole McKee, Minister for Courts and Associate Minister of Justice;
Tim van de Molen, Chair of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Select Committee;
Carmel Sepuloni, Deputy Leader of the Opposition; and
Damien O’Connor, Opposition Trade Spokesperson. 

The delegation will meet with senior government leaders and a range of parliamentary, business and education contacts.  

 On its way back to New Zealand, the delegation will undertake short programmes in Rapa Nui (Easter Island) and French Polynesia. 

“The Pacific is central to New Zealand’s foreign policy approach. We are pleased to have visited all Pacific Islands Forum countries at least once during this Parliamentary term and are looking forward to returning to French Polynesia and to making connections in Rapa Nui.” 

 The delegation departs on Sunday 1 March and returns on Monday 9 March.  

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/26/parliamentary-and-business-delegation-to-visit-latin-america/

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Government receives final COVID Inquiry report

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government welcomes the delivery of the final report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 Lessons to the Governor-General this morning.  

“I want to acknowledge the Royal Commission’s work to provide its final report. I also want to thank the thousands of Kiwis who had a part in shaping this report by making their voices heard through submissions on the terms of reference for Phase Two of the inquiry,” says Ms van Velden.  

Both the ACT-National and New Zealand First-National coalition agreements included commitments to expanding the Inquiry into COVID-19, showing that a review into the response was important to many Kiwis.  

“New Zealanders told us they weren’t satisfied with the narrow terms of the first phase of the Royal Commission’s inquiry – terms set by the same Government that made the decisions the Commission was investigating. It was important that we expand the Inquiry’s terms of reference to focus on the use of lockdowns and vaccine mandates, in particular inquiring into whether the Government considered the impact these decisions would have on society, our health and education, and on our economy. 

“The inquiry is not simply about learning what the previous Government did wrong, it is about working out what we need to do right. The social and financial costs of the pandemic response continue to be felt across the economy and society. Even today, New Zealanders are facing the consequences as they struggle with the cost of living and the debt disaster the previous Government left behind. We simply cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes again.”

The Royal Commission’s final report will be made public when the report is presented to Parliament on 10 March 2026.   

Health Minister Simeon Brown will now take on the Government’s response to the recommendations in the report.   

“New Zealanders lived through some of the most significant pandemic restrictions in the world. Kiwis remember not being able to visit loved ones in hospital, struggling to secure a managed isolation spot just to return home, and keeping their kids home from school for months on end,” Mr Brown says. 

“Aucklanders felt this more than most, with the previous government’s decisions leading to the region spending more than six months in lockdown – the longest of any region in the country. 

“The uncertainty, the isolation, and the toll it took on families, small business owners, and communities were all a result of decisions made during that time. Those decisions had a significant impact on everyday Kiwis, and it is important we take the time to fully understand why those decisions were made, so that any future response properly weighs the health and economic needs of all New Zealanders.” 

The Government and relevant agencies will carefully consider the findings of the report before responding to its recommendations.

 

Note to Editors: 

The Royal Commission was established on 9 December 2022 to examine New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 and identify the lessons learned that should be applied in future.   

In November 2024 the Government announced an expansion on the scope of the Royal Commission of Inquiry  to include a review of the key decisions taken by the Government in New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 during 2021 and 2022. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/government-receives-final-covid-inquiry-report/

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Fewer victims of crime, more police on the beat

Source: New Zealand Government

A tough on crime approach and a near doubling of police foot patrols have driven a huge drop in the number of victims of violent crime since this Government was elected, figures show.

The latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey shows there were 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.

“Since day one, we’ve been working tirelessly to restore real consequences for crime, and to place victims back at the centre of the justice system,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“We have reformed the sentencing regime so those who cause the most harm are imprisoned for longer, given Police effective tools to deal with gangs, stopped taxpayer funding for the proliferation of cultural reports, made stalking an illegal and jailable offence, given victims of sexual assault the power to determine if offenders are granted name suppression, restored Three Strikes, and much more.”

“A higher visibility of Police in our communities goes a long way to deterring crime and keeping criminals off our streets,” Police Minister Mark Mitchell says.

“It is no coincidence that our back-to-basics approach to policing is having a positive effect on reducing violent crime. Backing our frontline has seen more Police out on the beat, with foot patrols almost doubling since coming into Government.   

“Our investment into the frontline has seen 12 new and expanded beat teams stood up nationwide, including the launch of a beat team in Hamilton this week.

“Our beat officers do an outstanding job at keeping the public, businesses and retailers safe. 

“We know there is a lot more to do but these results show we are heading in the right direction.”

“It’s very encouraging to see we’re continuing to track ahead of our violent crime reduction target, with there now being 49,000 fewer victims of serious violent crime than when we came into Government,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.

“The latest figures show 136,000 New Zealanders were victims of violent crime in the 12 months to October 2025. This huge drop in the number of people affected by violent crime is fantastic progress but our work is far from over.

“Our Government remains committed to restoring the basics in law and order and building a future where New Zealanders can feel safe in their communities.

“This is going to be another busy year. We just announced plans to provide police with the power to issue move-on orders to deal with disorderly behaviour. Our Crimes Amendment Bill is making its way through the house, and legislation to strengthen trespass laws will soon be introduced.”

Children’s Minister Karen Chhour says Oranga Tamariki figures show there has been a 22 per cent drop in serious repeat youth offending compared with when the Government came into office.

“This is well ahead of our target of a 15 per cent drop before 2030,” she says.

“We promised to fix what matters to New Zealanders. Ram raids are down 85 per cent. Kiwis are no longer being expected to live in fear that their cars have been stolen and used by young offenders in a ram raid of our local small businesses.

“Young offenders are avoiding re-offending because they know Courts, Oranga Tamariki and Police are working together more closely. They know now that their actions will have consequences.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/26/fewer-victims-of-crime-more-police-on-the-beat/

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Large search operation launched in hunt for man missing in Manawatū River

Source: Radio New Zealand

Manawatū River. 123RF

A large search operation is underway for a man missing in the Manawatū River in Palmerston North.

Police were called to a report of personal items abandoned in a suspicious manner on Albert Street last Tuesday.

Officers then went to the nearby riverbank, and spotting a man in the water.

They asked him to come back to land but he disappeared under.

A search had been underway since then, and conditions improved today, with calmer and clearer water.

A large group were taking part including police search and rescue and dive squads.

Land search and rescue teams using kayaks, boats, and drones were also helping, as were other regional response teams.

Searchers were also scouring the riverbanks and the Foxton estuary where the Manawatū River reached the sea.

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/large-search-operation-launched-in-hunt-for-man-missing-in-manawatu-river/

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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/

Posted on

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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‘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/

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Universities – Vice-Chancellor Professor Nic Smith stands down from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Professor Nic Smith is standing down as Vice-Chancellor at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington, to take up the role of Vice-Chancellor at the University of Auckland. Professor Smith’s final day at Te Herenga Waka will be Friday 12 June.

Professor Smith has expressed his gratitude to both the staff and student community at Te Herenga Waka for their support.

“Serving Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington has been one of the great privileges of my career. I have deeply valued the relationships, conversations and shared purpose within this community, and I will miss working with you.”

“A healthy university is one where diverse perspectives are welcomed, ideas are tested rigorously, and debate is conducted with respect. That capacity to disagree thoughtfully, while listening to each other and remaining connected to a shared purpose, is one of the most important contributions universities make to society,” says Professor Smith.

Professor Smith said that enrolments have stabilised in the domestic market and particularly the international market, which is very important for our long-term sustainability.

“Our academics also continue to excel in teaching and research. Our recent rankings for the Law Faculty and AI are but two examples which are testament to this. There are many more.”  

Professor Smith was also grateful to the University Council and Te Hiwa and the wider group of leaders at the University.  

University Council Chancellor Alan Judge expressed his gratitude to Professor Smith: “Since taking on the role of Vice-Chancellor in January 2023, Professor Smith has worked closely with us on achieving financial sustainability while also overseeing the University to see that it has maintained its heart and special character.  

“Professor Smith has done an outstanding job of driving our ambitious strategy, engaging with the city and taking the University community forward. We are grateful for his service and wish him all the best in his role at the University of Auckland.”

A recruitment process for a new Vice-Chancellor will begin immediately.  

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/universities-vice-chancellor-professor-nic-smith-stands-down-from-te-herenga-waka-victoria-university-of-wellington/

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Economy – RBNZ opens consultation on second tranche of DTA Standards exposure drafts

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

26 February 2026 – Jess Rowe, Director Prudential Policy, says the opening of this second tranche of consultation marks another milestone as we work towards implementing the DTA.

“Technical feedback on the standards will help us to implement the DTA as intended to modernise and integrate our prudential framework,” Ms Rowe says. “We will continue to engage with industry and the public to ensure a proportionate approach that supports a competitive financial system.”

Consultation on exposure drafts of the DTA Standards is taking place in three tranches. The first tranche was published on 30 October 2025.

The second tranche of consultation, published today and open until 15 May, includes exposure drafts and guidance of the following five standards:

  • Governance Standard
  • Risk Management Standard
  • Disclosure Statements Standard
  • Business Transfers, Holding Entity, and Restricted Activities Standard
  • Reporting Standard.

DTA Standards exposure drafts (tranche 2) – Citizen Space: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=6dbaea3dbf&e=f3c68946f8

Consultation on tranche three will open in June 2026 and all DTA Standards will come into effect on 1 December 2028.

Consultation also opens on Due Diligence Guidance

As part of tranche two, we are also consulting on the Due Diligence Guidance. This paper provides guidance on how directors can exercise due diligence to ensure that the deposit taker complies with its prudential obligations.

Due Diligence Guidance – Citizen Space: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=ddff356eb2&e=f3c68946f8

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/economy-rbnz-opens-consultation-on-second-tranche-of-dta-standards-exposure-drafts/

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Save the Children: Child poverty figures demand Government action to address stagnation

Source: Save the Children

Thursday 26 February 2026 – Save the Children: Child poverty figures demand Government action to address stagnation.

Save the Children is calling on the Government to strengthen its response to child poverty following the release of the latest Child Poverty Statistics today.
Statistics for the year ending June 2025 released by Stats NZ show no annual change in child poverty rates. The figures show that the number of children experiencing hardship in their everyday lives has largely remained the same, with specific groups of children – including mokopuna Māori, Pasifika and disabled children and those living in sole parent households – particularly impacted by poverty.
The data shows that despite the aims of the Child Poverty Reduction Act to achieve a significant and sustained reduction in child poverty, rates have largely remained the same for the past five years.
Save the Children New Zealand’s Advocacy and Research Director Jacqui Southey says while public reporting is important for transparency and accountability, the figures represent real children experiencing hardship every day.
“Behind every statistic is a child growing up in a household trying to survive on too little,” says Ms Southey. “Too little income, too little food security, and too little stability. Living on too little limits children’s wellbeing now and their opportunities in the future.”
New Zealand has legislated targets to reduce child poverty, yet recent years have shown progress stalling and, in some measures, reversing since 2021. Gains made between 2018 and 2021 have been eroded.
In 2025, one in seven children were living in material hardship, rising to one in four for tamariki Māori and disabled children, and jumping to one in three for Pacific children. Nearly 80 percent of households on the lowest incomes were sole parent households, living on an average disposable income of less than $46,000.
“An income at that level is simply not enough to provide a decent standard of living for children and families in Aotearoa,” Ms Southey says.
Save the Children is concerned that continued high living costs, low wage growth and rising unemployment are placing additional pressure on families, with more households relying on welfare and hardship assistance. Rising food insecurity, increasing preventable hospital admissions and higher rates of violence against children are all indicators closely linked to deprivation.
The United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child has repeatedly urged New Zealand to prioritise child poverty reduction because of its immediate and long-term impacts on children’s development and wellbeing.
Ms Southey says addressing child poverty requires sustained investment in lifting incomes for families on the lowest incomes and strengthening the welfare and income support system.
“Paid work alone will not solve child poverty. Some families are locked out of the labour market due to illness, disability or caring responsibilities. Others are working but earning too little to keep pace with the cost of living.”
“If we are serious about eliminating child poverty, we must invest in income support, housing security and food security so children can thrive, not just survive.”
About Save the Children NZ:
Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/25/save-the-children-child-poverty-figures-demand-government-action-to-address-stagnation/