Category: Australia

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The wine industry headache

Source: Radio New Zealand

It’s estimated that roughly a fifth of the potential crop may be left on vines this year due to a combination of factors. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Perfect growing conditions for grapes at a time when demand for wine is dropping is likely to result in more fruit left on the vine again this harvest

Kudos, Kiwis, for dramatically dropping your alcohol consumption – especially our younger generations.

But the wine industry wants words.

“In the last 10 to 15 years, each of us, on average, have slashed our consumption of New Zealand wine by 50 percent. I mean, that is dramatic,” says wine writer Michael Cooper.

He used to write best-selling wine bibles on the industry here – not so any more. There isn’t the demand.

Cooper describes the situation now faced by the industry as a crisis, and not just because of our more sober society.

Tariffs, an international drop in demand, and a couple of years of perfect growing conditions have led to grapes being left unpicked.

Some estimates suggest that last year 100,000 tonnes of grapes – roughly a fifth of the potential crop – was left withering and rotting on the vines. The 2026 harvest is upon us, and the same thing is likely to happen.

“Just imagine if you’re a wine maker, and suddenly your domestic market, the people who you’re pouring all your passion into catering for, they’re now drinking only a half of your wine [in terms of the whole industry] that they used to only 10 or 15 years ago,” says Cooper.

As well as that, nearly half (47.8 percent) of the wine we drink here is now imported. About a decade ago that figure was about a third of total consumption.

“Back in 1980, 95 percent of the domestic market was New Zealand (wines),” says Cooper.

It’s cheaper to drink imported wine. Plus, some very successful wineries have now been bought out by foreign-owned entities, including world-famous brands such as Montana, which is sourcing grapes more cheaply from Australia.

Wine writer Michael Cooper says the industry is in crisis. Sharon Brettkelly

“And more and more of those wines that are getting shipped are bulk wines, so what that means is that for the majority of vine producers in New Zealand is they’re small, they’re family-owned, and they’re confronted with the reality that the domestic market is halved. And for so many of them export is something that they’d love to do but really struggle to do. Scale becomes an issue … if you’re making a relatively small volume of wine, then to be traipsing around the world is a challenge.”

Such companies are looking to diversify their export attempts away from purely English-speaking markets, saying there’s been some complacency about export markets.

The state of the industry “truly is a crisis,” says Cooper. “I’ve certainly seen nothing like this in my time in and around the industry, which dates back to 1975. No one really saw this coming.”

Viticultural researcher and wine master Ross Wise, at the Bragato Research Institute in Blenheim, tempers that with some encouraging news about new developments where New Zealand is at the top of its game.

This includes helping wineries making lighter, fresher styles of wines; improving the taste of no and low alcohol wines; trying drought-resistant root stocks; and methods to help manage the costs of production.

He talks to The Detail about the innovation going on in this country, including new canopy systems and developments in pruning.

Check out how to listen to and follow The Detail here.

You can also stay up-to-date by liking us on Facebook or following us on Twitter.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/the-wine-industry-headache/

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A new major streaming service is coming to New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

A new streaming service will launch in New Zealand this year – HBO Max – with Sky TV confirming the end of its deal with the major programme provider.

The HBO Max direct-to-consumer streaming service will be available mid-2026, Warner Bros. Discovery announced on Tuesday.

Details about subscriptions and pricing will be shared down the line, it said in a statement.

Scene imagery from Season 2 of The Pitt, on Neon.

Supplied

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/a-new-major-streaming-service-is-coming-to-new-zealand/

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Marlon Williams announces he’s taking a break from music

Source: Radio New Zealand

Kiwi folk singer Marlon Williams has announced he will be taking a break from performing “for a wee while”.

“For nearly 20 years I’ve explored both the physical and musical world in the company of incredible musicians, songwriters and friends and it’s been an absolute pleasure.

“The catch with it is that because it’s such a blessing to do what you love, it can be easy to overlook the toll it can take over time, on body and soul. So yes, I’m gonna have a cup of tea and a lie down and maybe get a dog.”

Williams’ break will come after a run of shows across Europe and Australia, and a tour of New Zealand at the end of May.

In Australia he and his band the Yarra Benders will play festivals, and in Europe, perform with The Maes in support.

The New Zealand support act will be announced on Thursday, Williams said, alongside the release of presale tickets.

“Please come and join in the fun while it lasts.”

Williams (Kāi Tahu, Ngāi Tai) won the APRA Silver Scroll Award in 2025 for the song ‘Aua Atu Rā’, co-written by KOMMI (Kāi Tahu, Te-Āti-Awa), and in in 2018 for ‘Nobody Gets What They Want Anymore’.

“Like all modern music it is a hybrid, blending elements of country, folk, pop and rock’n’roll, yet it is one that could only come from here, and it’s for all of us. This is the sound of home.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/marlon-williams-announces-hes-taking-a-break-from-music/

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Government rams through law attacking workers

Source: Green Party

“The passing of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill is a dark day for Aotearoa, and shows this government is on the side of big corporates and against the workers.” says Green Party Workplace Relations spokesperson Teanau Tuiono.

“Workers have a basic right to seek remedies for unjustifiable and unlawful dismissal. This law effectively destroys that right, leaving workers completely exposed to abuses of power by their employers.”

 

“This law also makes it easier to dismiss workers and gives bosses the ability to mischaracterise employees as contractors, meaning that they miss out on basic rights like sick leave and holiday pay.”

 

“Minister Van Velden has proudly ignored and refused to meet with workers’ representatives, while she’s getting her ideas for reforms from multinational corporations like Uber.”  

 

“New Zealand workers already have significantly less rights at work than Australian workers, and this government is busy eroding those that we have managed to keep. It’s no surprise that young people are flocking across the ditch, and this will only see that flow increase.” 

 

Over 3000 submissions on the Employment Relations Amendment Bill were opposed to it, while only 34 were in favour. Unions, employment lawyers, and academics lined up alongside regular workers to reject this attack on basic rights.

 

“Workers are the backbone of our economy. Instead of protecting and supporting them, this Government is in the pockets of multinational corporates, delivering on their every whim.”

 

“Enhancing the rights of workers to organise collectively is the best to get decent pay and working conditions, and the Greens are committed to strengthening this,” says Teanau.  

 

“We will go further than reversing these changes when we are in government. We will introduce default union membership for all new workers and look to increase the ability for workers to take industrial action to promote their basic rights.”  

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/government-rams-through-law-attacking-workers/

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Legislation – Darkest day in decades for NZ workers’ rights as ERA Bill passes – Workers First Union

Source: Workers First Union

Workers First said that the passage of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill today was the “darkest day in decades” for New Zealand workers’ rights and that every person, whether an employee or contractor, should be deeply concerned for their future job security and prosperity.
Dennis Maga, Workers First General Secretary, said that while it was obvious that the governing ACT Party and National Party intended to change New Zealand law to protect the “exploitative” business model of employers like Uber, NZ First had “sold out” workers despite meeting with several unions over the last few months and claiming their intention to amend the Bill during its Committee Stage. Instead, NZ First offered no amendments during the final Parliamentary opportunity to develop the legislation and rejected every Opposition attempt to limit the Bill’s “catastrophic” scope.
“This ‘fire-at-will’ Bill not only protects contractor misclassification by enshrining the process in law, but it decimates the right to workplace justice and enables employers to erase the rights workers fought for decades to win,” said Mr Maga.
“This is a shameful day for Aotearoa and an international embarrassment. While other nations stood up to international corporates like Uber and required them to adapt to sovereign law, our Government has laid out the red carpet for them to redesign our employment system in their favour.”
“It’s no surprise to see the ACT Party advance legislation as the parliamentary wing of Uber’s business model, but NZ First’s decision to back the Bill is a stark act of hypocrisy.”
“They are a party that pretends to care about sovereignty but have turned their backs on New Zealanders today, and workers will not forget it.”
Mr Maga said that the passage of the Bill did not rule out the pursuit of backpay and lost entitlements for the misclassification of Uber drivers, which last year’s judgement from the Supreme Court allowed for. Over 1,500 financial claims for Uber drivers have already been lodged by Workers First Union, and they would proceed despite the law change.
Other elements of the Bill that disadvantage workers included the end of the “30-day rule” that protected new employees under an existing Collective Agreement, and changes to the Personal Grievance process that allowed employers to unilaterally define “serious misconduct” and deny workers the right to compensation or reinstatement if they are deemed to have “contributed” to the situation.
“The Bill is an omnibus of gifts to exploitative employers and a firm admission that this Government does not care about ordinary New Zealand workers,” said Mr Maga.
“It will worsen the cost-of-living crisis, exacerbate the exodus of New Zealand workers to Australia, and encourage more predation on the working class by big business without redress.”
Ultimately, Mr Maga said the legislation created the conditions for New Zealand employers to pursue mass redundancies of employees before attempting to ‘re-hire’ them under the new category of a ‘specified contractor’, lacking the protections of employment like a minimum wage, holiday pay, sick and annual leave, and the right to join a union.
“If you think this Bill doesn’t apply to you now, it may well in the future,” said Mr Maga.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/legislation-darkest-day-in-decades-for-nz-workers-rights-as-era-bill-passes-workers-first-union/

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Energy Efficiency – Hot water heat pumps a faster, lower-cost alternative to risky LNG imports – Ecobulb

Source: Ecobulb

An energy efficiency expert is urging the Government to prioritise hot water heat pumps as one immediate and cost-effective response to New Zealand’s energy crisis, backing views in a new report that importing LNG would increase energy prices and expose the country to volatile international markets.

A New Zealand Green Building Council report warns that importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) would require significant taxpayer subsidies and likely place sustained upward pressure on gas and electricity prices. International experience – including in eastern Australia – shows that linking domestic supply to global gas markets can dramatically increase generation costs, accelerating industrial decline and job losses.
(ref. https://nzgbc.org.nz/news-and-media/lng-imports-would-lock-kiwis-into-higher-energy-bills-for-decades-when-more-secure-options-are-ready-now )
 
New Zealand doesn’t need to take that risk, says Ecobulb Managing Director Dr Chris Mardon.
 
“Before we spend hundreds of millions subsidising imported gas, we could fix the biggest, most remedial source of household energy waste – hot water,” says Mardon. “Hot water heat pumps are proven technology that can slash electricity use by up to 70 percent compared to traditional electric cylinders, and completely remove the need for gas water heating.”
 
Hot water typically accounts for around a third of household energy consumption. Replacing ageing electric or gas water heaters with high-efficiency heat pump systems delivers permanent demand reduction – lowering peak loads and easing pressure on the national grid.
 
According to the NZGBC’s analysis, widespread adoption of efficient electric technologies, including hot water heat pumps and rooftop solar, could offset a significant portion of the energy shortfall that LNG imports are intended to address – without exposing New Zealand to global fuel price volatility.
 
“If all new homes built had rooftop solar and all new residential hot water systems sold were heat pumps, by 2030 more electricity would be being generated and saved than the LNG terminal would provide,” Mardon said. “That’s energy we don’t have to generate, import, or subsidise.”
 
Unlike LNG infrastructure, which creates a centralised point of failure and ties prices to international markets, hot water heat pumps are distributed assets installed in thousands of homes across the country.
 
“Distributed efficiency is inherently more resilient,” Mardon said. “Every home that upgrades, reduces national demand. That lowers wholesale price pressure and protects households from future energy shocks.”
 
The report also highlights that LNG imports would likely increase the marginal cost of electricity generation, pushing up power prices even in normal years. Higher energy input costs would further strain manufacturers and gas-intensive industries.
 
Mardon says improving hot water efficiency is a direct way to reduce both household living costs and system-wide demand.
 
“Energy we don’t use is the cheapest energy of all. A hot water heat pump delivers guaranteed, ongoing savings for families – year after year – without requiring permanent government subsidies.”
 
The NZGBC report estimates that LNG imports would depend on substantial annual taxpayer support.
 
Ecobulb is calling for those funds to instead be redirected into targeted grants or financing support for hot water heat pump installations, particularly for low- and middle-income households.  The NZGBC report says that rooftop solar should also be supported.
 
“Instead of subsidising imported fuel, we could invest in permanent bill reductions for Kiwi families,” said Mardon. “That strengthens energy security, supports local installation jobs, and reduces long-term system costs.”
 
Mardon says the pathway forward is clear.
 
“Hot water heat pumps are available now. They’re efficient, scalable, and already proven in thousands of New Zealand homes. If we’re serious about reducing energy costs and protecting our economy, accelerating the transition to hot water heat pumps is one of the smartest steps we can take.”
 
About Ecobulb

Ecobulb is a New Zealand-owned energy efficiency company specialising in lighting and high-performance hot water heat pump systems for residential and commercial applications, helping households reduce energy use, cut power bills, and transition away from fossil fuels.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/energy-efficiency-hot-water-heat-pumps-a-faster-lower-cost-alternative-to-risky-lng-imports-ecobulb/

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Arts – Global exhibitions coming to Tāmaki Makaurau: Auckland Museum announces 2026/2027 international exhibition programme

Source: Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum

Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum announces an exciting line-up of international touring exhibitions, including an exclusive new Triceratops exhibition, coming to Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland over 2026 and 2027.

Auckland Museum Director of Audience Engagement Victoria Travers says the upcoming programme brings a diverse range of exhibitions from around the world.

“The next two years of our international exhibition programme reflects Auckland Museum’s commitment to presenting world-class touring exhibitions, with March of the Triceratops set to be a major highlight.”

“As the only Australasian venue on the exhibition’s international tour, Auckland Museum will give visitors the rare opportunity to come face-to-face with the world’s only known Triceratops herd, alongside other exceptional international exhibitions arriving in Tāmaki Makaurau,” says Travers.

Due to strong public interest, Sharks, created by the Australian Museum, has been extended through to Monday 1 June 2026. This exhibition explores the diversity and evolution of sharks, their significance within First Nations and Pasifika knowledge systems, and the latest global research into shark conservation, offering visitors a deeper understanding of these ancient and often misunderstood ocean predators.

Opening on Saturday 27 June 2026, Wildlife Photographer of the Year returns to Auckland Museum in its 61st year, presenting a breathtaking selection of images from the world’s most prestigious wildlife photography competition. The exhibition celebrates the beauty, complexity and fragility of the natural world, captured by photographers from across the globe.

Coming September 2026, families and dinosaur enthusiasts can step back into the prehistoric past with March of the Triceratops. This once-in-a-lifetime exhibition showcases the world’s only Triceratops herd, with a rare group of five recently excavated fossils. Through immersive displays, life-size models, animatronics and augmented reality, this exhibition brings the story of Triceratops to life, exploring their behaviour, biology, and the ancient environments they once roamed.

Opening in June 2027, Ming: The Golden Empire showcases the brilliance of China’s Ming dynasty. This exhibition explores revolutionary social change, artistic achievement, and cultural richness through treasures from the Nanjing Museum that rarely leave China.

Auckland Museum Membership, with three options to select from, provides unlimited free entry to all paid exhibitions, as well as discounted event tickets and exclusive Member-only events. Find out more at: aucklandmuseum.com/membership

Further details, and public programmes and events to be announced; sign up to our What’s On email for updates.

Auckland Museum exhibition programme for 2026/2027:

SHARKS
EXTENDED UNTIL MON 1 JUN 2026
ADULT $22, CHILD (5-15 YRS) $11, UNDER 5 YRS FREE, FAMILY (2 ADULT, 2 CHILD) $59, CONCESSIONS (STUDENTS & SENIORS) $20
FREE FOR MUSEUM MEMBERS

Created by the Australian Museum, Sharks invites you to explore the fascinating, and often misunderstood, world of sharks. Come face-to-face with life-sized, scientifically accurate shark models, including one of the most famous and feared species of shark, the Great White Shark. Learn through artefacts and tactile displays; be immersed in a digital oceanarium; and see the world in a 360-degree view through the eyes of a Hammerhead Shark.

Sharks is produced and toured by the Australian Museum and proudly supported by Earth Sciences NZ.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR 61
SAT 27 JUN – SUN 23 AUG 2026
FREE WITH MUSEUM ENTRY

Now in its sixty-first year, and on loan from the Natural History Museum in London, Wildlife Photographer of the Year features some of the most exceptional nature photography taken today from across the globe.

The exhibition shines a light on powerful and fascinating images that capture hidden animal behaviour, spectacular species, and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world. Using photography’s unique emotive power to engage and inspire audiences, the images share stories and species from around the world, encouraging a future of advocating for the planet.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year is developed and produced by the Natural History Museum, London.

MARCH OF THE TRICERATOPS
SEPT 2026 – APR 2027
ADULT $29.90, CHILD (5-15 YRS) $19.90, UNDER 5 YRS FREE, FAMILY (2 ADULT, 2 CHILD) $90, CONCESSIONS (STUDENTS & SENIORS) $27.90, FREE FOR MUSEUM MEMBERS

March of the Triceratops brings to life one of the world’s most iconic dinosaurs, revealing how these extraordinary creatures lived, moved, and survived millions of years ago.

The exhibition features the only known Triceratops herd ever discovered, with a rare group of five recently excavated fossils. Alongside the fossils are life-size Triceratops models and animatronics, created using the latest scientific research, and hands-on interactives and animated experiences that offer fascinating insight into a prehistoric world.

Explore how fossils are formed, learn what palaeontologists do, and use augmented reality to step into the Triceratops’ natural environment and imagine a landscape shaped by dinosaurs.

March of the Triceratops is a collaboration between Naturalis Biodiversity Center, and MuseumsPartner, both based in Europe.

MING: THE GOLDEN EMPIRE
JUN 2027 – OCT 2027
ADULT $25, CHILD (5-15 YRS) $15, UNDER 5 YRS FREE, FAMILY (2 ADULT, 2 CHILD) $72, CONCESSIONS (STUDENTS & SENIORS) $23, FREE FOR MUSEUM MEMBERS

Discover the brilliance of the Ming dynasty in Ming: The Golden Empire. This stunning exhibition explores revolutionary social change, artistic achievement, and cultural richness through treasures from Nanjing Museum that rarely leave China. From imperial luxuries to everyday objects, journey through China’s Great Ming era, which spanned 1368-1644, all brought to life with striking visuals, films, and interactive displays.

Ming: The Golden Empire is produced by Nomad Exhibitions in association with Nanjing Museum.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/arts-global-exhibitions-coming-to-tamaki-makaurau-auckland-museum-announces-2026-2027-international-exhibition-programme/

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Members of Gas Security Fund panel named

Source: New Zealand Government

Gas and energy industry specialist Andy Knight has been named as chair of the expert panel appointed to advise the Government on projects applying to the $200 million Gas Security Fund, Resources and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.

“Mr Knight’s depth and breadth of experience in gas industry regulation and energy production and supply makes him uniquely qualified to lead the panel that will provide expert advice on the technically and economically complex projects targeted by the fund,” Mr Jones says.

The $200m Gas Security Fund opened for applications on 12 January 2026. It was created to unlock opportunities to improve gas supply and storage by focusing on activities that have short- to long-term benefits, including from existing sites, in response to declining gas production.

“New Zealand’s history of affordable and secure domestic gas has underpinned major parts of our economy – and this Government wants that to continue by shoring up our domestic supply, supported by the import of LNG which can provide flex to supplement our gas requirements in the meantime,” Mr Jones says.

Two other members appointed to the panel are geophysicist Tim Allan, who has extensive international experience in the industry, and John Pagani who brings experience of working with boards and management of energy firms and industry associations in New Zealand and Australia. Officials continue to assess options for two more members to be appointed in due course.

Mr Jones as Resources Minister and Associate Finance Minister Chris Bishop are the decision-making ministers for applications to the fund. 

“The panel members’ direct commercial and technical oil and gas expertise, and experience of New Zealand’s complex gas exploration and market conditions, means they will be able to provide valuable independent advice,”

“These are high-calibre individuals with impressive technical and industry expertise. We look forward to working with them,” Mr Jones says.

The Gas Security Fund is administered Kānoa – Regional Economic Development & Investment Unit. For more information, including how to apply, go to www.growregions.govt.nz/gas-security-fund. 

Biographies:

Andy Knight

Mr Knight is the former chief executive of The Gas Industry Co, one of the gas sector’s co-regulators. He is chair of Taranaki Iwi Holdings Management and a director of the Energy Efficiency Conservation Authority (EECA) as well as of related iwi entities and private investments. He was previously a director of Powerco, CEO of New Zealand Oil & Gas and has held executive roles with Vector Limited, the NGC Holdings Limited Group of Companies, The Australian Gas Light Company and Fletcher Challenge Energy.

Tim Allan

Mr Allan is a resources industry professional, with more than 30 years’ international experience. Most recently he was the exploration stakeholder lead and senior exploration geophysicist (Australasia) for OMV. His experience covers the full spectrum of oil and gas exploration, appraisal, development and production operations, in a wide range of land and marine environments.

John Pagani 

Mr Pagani is the external relations manager for the Gas Industry Company. He has been involved in the energy sector since 2012 and was previously general manager corporate services at New Zealand Oil & Gas. Mr Pagani has worked with boards and management of energy firms and industry associations in New Zealand and Australia. 

 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/members-of-gas-security-fund-panel-named/

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Can I put that down the kitchen sink?

Source: Radio New Zealand

We’ve all heard the warnings about wet wipes and fatbergs but the kitchen sink is often where complacency creeps in. A splash of pan oil here or a rinse of leftover sauce there might seem harmless at first.

According to plumber Marc Brouwer, who has worked across Australia and New Zealand for 22 years, kitchen drain blockages are an everyday callout.

“It can range from the original plumbing that may have been installed, like the wrong pipe sizing. It can be due to old pipes… Then in most cases it’s all just self-inflicted, which is pouring oil down the sink.”

Dense oils and meat fats are a big culprit for blocked drains and pipes, says plumber Marc Brouwer.

Unsplash / Cooker King

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/can-i-put-that-down-the-kitchen-sink/

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Rugby league: Door open for Kiwis to play State of Origin

Source: Radio New Zealand

Born in Sydney, Kiwis player Casey McLean would be eligible for State of Origin. Photosport / David Neilson

With State of Origin set to debut in Auckland in 2027, Kiwis can now also feature in the iconic series after changes to the eligibility criteria.

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) today announced it was amending the Origin selection rules, which paves the way for Australian-born Kiwis to play in the series.

Players were previously required to be eligible to represent Australia or a tier two nation as defined by International Rugby League.

The updated rules remove this restriction, allowing players who who meet the traditional State of Origin criteria and represent tier one nations to be eligible.

The criteria is a player must have been born in New South Wales or Queensland, resided in New South Wales or Queensland prior to their 13th birthday, or their father played State of Origin.

ARLC chairman Peter V’landys AM said the changes were a necessary and logical evolution for the game in 2026.

“Rugby league has changed, the international game has grown, and our rules need to reflect that. If a player is eligible to play State of Origin, it makes no sense to exclude them simply because they’ve represented New Zealand or England at test level.”

He said State of Origin is about where you were from and what state you were eligible for – not which country you represent internationally.

“If you’re eligible, you should be able to play for your state. Over 45 years, State of Origin has developed into something special, and we want the best players playing if they’re eligible. The commission has a responsibility to grow both the international game and State of Origin, and this change strengthens both.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/rugby-league-door-open-for-kiwis-to-play-state-of-origin/

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Can artificial intelligence legally be an inventor?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Stephen Thaler is seeking a patent for a new type of food container. RNZ

An American computer scientist wants New Zealand’s courts to decide whether AI can legally be an inventor in a global test case next week.

Stephen Thaler is seeking a patent for a new type of food container.

The sticking point is he named his artificial intelligence system, called DABUS, as the inventor.

The Patent Office turned his application down in 2022, and the High Court agreed, with both saying an “inventor” had to be human.

Thaler was set to challenge that in the Court of Appeal on February 24.

His lawyer Clive Elliott KC said when Thaler filled out his application for a patent, he was simply stating the truth.

“He didn’t actually invent this food container, it was his machine,” he said.

“He invented what he calls an autonomous invention machine, in other words, an AI system which is itself able to invent.”

But in its 2023 decision, the High Court said the law in New Zealand did not allow for DABUS to get the credit.

“If the legislators had intended to allow granting of patents in New Zealand for inventions devised solely by non-humans such as artificial intelligences, or life forms other than human beings they would have drafted the Act to accommodate these possibilities specifically and explicitly,” it said.

But Elliot said New Zealand’s Patents Act was only passed in 2013 so parliament knew about artificial intelligence when they created it – and did not exclude it.

Auckland University professor Alex Sims says NZ faces the risk of being left behind. Supplied

Auckland University law professor and intellectual property expert Alex Sims said beyond the technicalities of the case, there was a bigger picture about whether AI could truly be an inventor.

“What AI does is it’s hoovering up human creativity and then it’s using that to produce something. So some people would actually argue that it’s not being creative because it’s all premised on what has gone before,” she said.

Thaler was part of a group taking cases about AI and patents around the world to try to set a precedent.

Auckland University lecturer Joshua Yuvaraj followed his – unsuccessful – attempt in Australia.

People had been at the heart of intellectual property law as it developed over centuries, because there was no mechanism for creation other than the human mind, he said.

“That is why AI is challenging that notion because AI, it appears, can do a lot of what the human mind can do is the argument. That is the tension that IP law is facing.”

The food container US computer scientist Stephen Thaler says was invented by his AI and should be given a patent. Supplied

Patent were seen as important because they would determine whether someone’s designs could be protected if they were created by AI.

“Say you use an AI to make a new type of e-scooter or a new type of kettle or a new coffee machine, if you can’t register that patent then someone can take that idea and make money off your idea,” he said

Sims said many countries tended to be in lock step when it came to intellectual property law.

Most were grappling with the AI patent challenge.

An inquiry in the UK had considered the issue and those it talked to had mixed views, she said.

Some people worried by not allowing AI patents, it could stifle creativity and innovation because people would tend not to use AI.

Others worried letting AI be an inventor would push people out of the creative process, she said.

Thaler and his group were testing the law in several countries but had been unsuccessful everywhere but South Africa, which was considered to have a unique style of IP law.

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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/2026/02/16/can-artificial-intelligence-legally-be-an-inventor/

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Environment – Mine e-waste for gold, not beautiful landscapes – Zero Waste

Source:  Zero Waste Aotearoa

As a fast-track consent is sought for a major gold mine in Central Otago and another has already been granted in Coromandel, Zero Waste Aotearoa is calling upon the government to mine electronic waste, not beautiful landscapes, for gold and other precious metals.

E-waste contains a significant concentration of gold, with one metric tonne of electronic waste containing up to 800 times more gold than a tonne of mined ore. While precious metals (including gold, silver, copper) make up approximately 60% of the composition of some e-waste, gold specifically is highly concentrated, with a single tonne of circuit boards containing roughly 39 grams of gold.

New Zealand currently generates 99,000 tonnes of e-waste every single year. Approximately 98 percent ends up in landfill or is disposed of illegally, according to the Ministry for the Environment.

“At present the voluntary product stewardship scheme means that we have one of the lowest rates of e-waste recovery in the world. We are literally throwing gold away into landfills while proposing to dig it up elsewhere in some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. It is the height of madness,” says Sue Coutts of Zero Waste Aotearoa.

“Like many people across the country, we are gravely concerned about the environmental impact of gold mining. We think that there are much better ways to get these valuable resources – and ensure that they stay in circulation forever, not dumped in landfills.”

“The World Gold Council says that only 7% of gold is used in tech but 27% of worldwide gold production is already from recycling. This is more than 4 times what we need for tech – there is no valid reason to dig up any more of our precious ecosystems.”

“Product stewardship would create a pathway for a new industry: one built on resource recovery of valuable materials and a circular economy.”

NZ company MINT Innovation relocated to Sydney because they could tap into flows of e-waste from extended producer responsibility schemes that collect electronic waste in Australia.

They chose not to invest in NZ because there is no regulated e-waste scheme here. That’s $60m in turnover that will be dropping into the Australian economy every year instead of ours.

E-waste was declared a priority product in June 2020 requiring the establishment of a regulated product stewardship scheme under the Waste Minimisation Act. Yet six years on, a mandatory scheme is not in place and no further work is being done.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/environment-mine-e-waste-for-gold-not-beautiful-landscapes-zero-waste/

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Auckland’s Eden Park to host State of Origin match in 2027

Source: Radio New Zealand

Watch above: Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown and Tourism Minister Louise Upston announce the deal.

A State of Origin match will be played in Eden Park in Auckland in 2027 following three years of high-level talks with the NRL and the Australian Rugby League Commission.

It is expected that 50,000 fans will pack the stadium for the Queensland versus New South Wales match.

Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown said securing State of Origin reflected the city’s strength as a major sporting centre.

“From the outset, Auckland made it clear we wanted to bring State of Origin to our city, and we’ve worked hard to secure it,” he said in a statement.

“We know how to host major events, and we know the value they bring. This match will mean full hotels, busy restaurants and bars, and thousands of visitors experiencing everything our region has to offer.”

Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow of the Maroons celebrates after scoring a try during the State of Origin game two match between the Queensland Maroons and the NSW Blues. AAP / Photosport

Hosting State of Origin is expected to attract more than 10,000 international visitors from Australia, generate nore than 50,000 international visitor nights, and inject an estimated $17.4 million into the Auckland economy.

Australian Rugby League Commission chairman Peter V’landys AM said the historic clash would give New Zealanders the opportunity to experience the intensity of the game’s greatest rivalry.

“Rugby league is the number one sport in Australia and the Pacific, and the growth we have seen in New Zealand over recent years has been nothing short of extraordinary,” V’landys said.

Sir Graham Lowe, the only New Zealander to coach a State of Origin team as a former Queensland coach, said the occasion would be one to remember.

“Kiwis are excited about State of Origin, but there are only a few of them that have had the opportunity to actually watch it live. This will be a fantastic occasion for Auckland,” he said in a statement.

The 2027 fixture is being co-funded in partnership by Auckland Council Events and the New Zealand Government via the Major Events Fund.

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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/2026/02/16/aucklands-eden-park-to-host-state-of-origin-match-in-2027/

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State of Origin heads to New Zealand

Source: New Zealand Government

In an historic moment, New Zealand will host its first-ever State of Origin match next year at Eden Park, a major event expected to draw thousands of international visitors and deliver a significant economic boost for Auckland.

The New Zealand Government and Auckland Council have worked in tandem, alongside the Australian Rugby League Commission, to bring the sporting spectacular to Auckland. 

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says securing one of Australasia’s biggest sporting events represents a major win for fans, tourism and New Zealand sport.

“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome the Blues and Maroons across the ditch for the very first time,” Louise Upston says.

“This is a milestone moment for rugby league in New Zealand, but it is so much more than a game. 

“Hosting State of Origin is expected to attract over 10,000 of our Aussie neighbours, generate more than 50,000 international visitor nights, and inject an estimated $17.4 million into the economy. 

“With a significant Australian audience, our biggest tourism market, this match will showcase Auckland on an international stage, and put New Zealand on the map as a world-class destination for major events.”

The State of Origin series is one of the fiercest rivalries in global sport, pitting Queensland and New South Wales against each other in a high‑intensity three‑match contest. Next year, for the first time ever, one of the series matches will be played on New Zealand soil.

Hosting events has been made even easier because of changes to planning restrictions at Eden Park announced by the Government today, which will unlock the opportunity for more major events to be hosted at the stadium.

The 2027 fixture is proudly supported by the Government’s Major Events Fund and Auckland Council Events.

Dates and ticket details for the State of Origin fixture will be confirmed by the NRL later in the year.

Attached:

NRL State of Origin fact sheet

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/state-of-origin-heads-to-new-zealand/

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Aussie Tom Slingsby capitalises on Black Foils crash for New Zealand SailGP honours

Source: Radio New Zealand

Australia celebrate their New Zealand SailGP victory off auckland’s Wynyard Point. Getty Images

Despite defending his New Zealand SailGP crown off Auckland’s Wynyard Point, Aussie supremo Tom Slingsby harbours mixed feelings about how his team achieved their feat.

The three-time series champion had a front-row view of the horrible high-speed crash that sent New Zealand and France out of the regatta on Saturday, and admitted the Kiwis’ absence played a big part in the Flying Roos’ repeat success.

“Us winning in Auckland again, I’m not sure why, but it’s become a very happy hunting ground for us and it was very unfortunate the Kiwis weren’t there today,” Slingsby reflected. “We always want to compete against the best teams and the Kiwis, in those conditions, would have been our biggest rivals, I feel.

“Sad for them not being there, but we just focused on ourselves and we’re really happy to convert it into a win.”

Slingsby and Black Foils counterpart Peter Burling have developed a strong rivalry over their years on the professional sailing circuit, and the incident took its toll on the Aussies, as it did on the rest of the fleet.

“I happened to be looking right at it when it happened,” he said. “It was very scary.

“The Kiwis, as a team, we love to hate them, but individually, I love all of those guys. They’re just amazing people and, when a crash like that happens, I instantly think, ‘They’re all my friends and friends I’ve had for a long, long time’.

“When they called off the race, I was happy, because my mind definitely wasn’t on the game. We want the Kiwis out there and we don’t want to see anything like that ever.”

NZ grinder Louis Sinclair suffered compound fractures to both legs in the mayhem and underwent surgery on his right leg overnight. Slingsby messaged Burling to offer his support and hoped to see the Kiwis back on the water soon, although Sydney in two weeks seemed a stretch.

“They’re a champion team,” he said. “No-one knows timelines or when they’ll be back, but we know the day they come back, even if it’s not for championship wins this season, they’ll be out to win as much prize money and events as they can.”

NZ boat ‘Amokura’ was virtually destroyed, when it swerved into the path of the French, who flew over the bow and sliced it in two.

Some drivers questioned the sense of having 13 boats jockeying for position on such a small course in tricky wind conditions and organisers responded by introducing a split-fleet format for the first time on Sunday.

The fleet had experimented with smaller fields in practice, with the anticipated addition of a 14th team next year likely to force the change fulltime.

Slingsby had mixed feelings about the reduced format.

“The racer in me wants the full fleet there,” he said. “I just feel like the full fleet is why we do this – it’s lots of boats and lots happening.

Black Foils boat ‘Amokura’ is salvaged, after crashing with France on the Waitematā Harbour. Felix Diemer for SailGP

“At the same time, you’ve got to make changes, when something like that happens, whether it’s a permanent change or not. At least for today, I totally agree with the split fleet.

“We need to show we’re making changes here and not taking this accident lightly. With windy conditions today and a bigger forecast, I think it was the right call.”

While common sense prevailed, the diluted version felt like the SailGP equivalent of golden oldies scrums in rugby. Let’s just get out of Auckland with no further damage.

Racing was already brought forward to avoid the worst of the weather forecast and conditions changed dramatically again for the three-boat final, where speeds reached 100kmh and crews battled just to keep their boats upright.

Slingsby and his team now head home to Sydney, and he doubts two weeks will allow enough time for New Zealand or France to repair their boats.

“From my technical and structural knowledge of these boats, I think there’s no chance either of those boats are there,” he said.

“For sure you’re facing mental battles. We had a bit incident in Christchurch a couple of years ago and I remember, heading back out onto the racetrack, there were a few little scars there.

“As soon as they fire the gun, I was able to black it out and we got straight back into it.

“I know Peter Burling better than most people, and he will just get back in there and be ripping around the whole way.”

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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/2026/02/15/aussie-tom-slingsby-capitalises-on-black-foils-crash-for-new-zealand-sailgp-honours/

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Health and Policy – Burnett Foundation Aotearoa welcomes the Government’s decision on U=U

Source: Burnett Foundation Aotearoa

Associate Health Minister Doocey’s decision to sign the U=U declaration today is a critical step on the road towards zero locally acquired HIV transmissions in Aotearoa New Zealand.
U = U stands for Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U). It means that a person living with HIV who is on effective treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV to sexual partner(s).
“The U=U message helps increase testing, treatment adherence, and viral suppression rates, but most importantly, it increases the confidence and dignity of people living with HIV. It’s proof that science and compassion walk hand in hand,” says Liz Gibbs, CEO of Burnett Foundation Aotearoa.
This decision makes New Zealand the 5th country to sign the multinational U=U Call to Action, behind Australia, Canada, the USA, and Vietnam.
“Currently people living with HIV may face prosecution under the Crimes Act for HIV non-disclosure to their sexual partners (unless they are using a condom), even if they are on treatment with an undetectable viral load and therefore pose zero risk of transmission. With the Government’s official endorsement of U=U, it gives the Police, Courts and government departments the backing required to modernise outdated guidelines and policies, so they are in-keeping with the latest science.” says Gibbs.
This is a significant step forward that many across the HIV and sexual health community have been advocating for several years, and we are thrilled to see it finally come to pass.
About Burnett Foundation Aotearoa:
The Burnett Foundation Aotearoa is a national organisation dedicated to preventing HIV transmission, supporting people living with HIV and reducing stigma across Aotearoa. For 40 years, it has driven public health education, advocacy, and community-led support. The foundation empowers people with knowledge, care, and connection, working towards a future with zero HIV transmissions. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/health-and-policy-burnett-foundation-aotearoa-welcomes-the-governments-decision-on-uu/

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Adolescence writer Jack Thorne on his new TV adaptation of castaway novel Lord of the Flies

Source: Radio New Zealand

Adolescence writer Jack Thorne hopes the UK will follow Australia in introducing a social media ban for children under 16.

“I think it’s amazing that Australia is ahead of the world in terms of the social media ban,” Thorne says.

“It’s hopefully going to spread like wildfire through the world, because I think it’s an incredibly important thing.”

Lord of the Flies and Adolescence were written and filmed at the same time.

Stan

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/adolescence-writer-jack-thorne-on-his-new-tv-adaptation-of-castaway-novel-lord-of-the-flies/

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New Zealand signs up to U=U commitment for HIV

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand has signed the global Call-to-Action on Undetectable = Untransmittable (U=U), sending a strong signal of our commitment to ending HIV transmission and ensuring people living with HIV can lead healthy lives free from stigma and discrimination, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says.

“U=U is a clear, evidence-based principle that when someone living with HIV is on effective treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load, they cannot transmit HIV sexually,” Mr Doocey says.

“By signing this Call-to-Action, we are reinforcing U=U as a core part of New Zealand’s HIV response. Increasing awareness helps reduce stigma, encourages testing, supports earlier access to treatment, and strengthens prevention and long-term health outcomes.”

The Call-to-Action encourages countries to embed U=U within HIV guidelines and strategies, improve equitable access to testing and treatment, support community-led initiatives, and strengthen public understanding.

“Endorsing U=U aligns with New Zealand’s National HIV Action Plan, which sets out our goal of eliminating local HIV transmission by 2030 and addressing HIV-related stigma and discrimination.

“While treatment uptake and viral suppression rates are strong, it is clear stigma remains a significant barrier for many people. This commitment sends a clear message that discrimination has no place in New Zealand.”

Mr Doocey acknowledged the many advocates, community organisations and people with lived experience of HIV who have long called for New Zealand to formally endorse U=U.

“This milestone reflects years of dedicated advocacy and leadership from communities most affected by HIV. We thank those with lived experience who have shared their stories and challenged stigma. These voices have been instrumental in driving change.”

New Zealand is the fifth country to join the Call-to-Action. In addition, more than 1,100 organisations across 106 countries have signed on to share the U=U message with their communities.

This builds on the significant progress that has been made in recent years, including reductions in locally acquired HIV infections, increased uptake of combination prevention measures, and expanded testing options.

 Notes to editor:

  • New Zealand joins Canada, the United States, Vietnam and Australia in signing the Call‑to-Action.
  • The move is supported by findings from the latest HIV Monitoring Report, which highlighted ongoing progress in New Zealand’s HIV response. This included 98.5% of people diagnosed with HIV on treatment, and 91.7% achieving viral suppression.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/new-zealand-signs-up-to-uu-commitment-for-hiv/

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Cam Melville Ives misses snowboard halfpipe medals

Source: Radio New Zealand

Cam Melville Ives at the 2026 Winter Olympics. www.photosport.nz

First time Olympian Cam Melville Ives struggled to complete his runs in the snowboard halfpipe final and finished in 12th place at Livingo Snow Park.

The Wanaka rider qualified in eighth for the Winter Olympics final but was among the athletes that could not put down clean runs on Saturday.

Melville Ives’ first run score of 43, which included a backside double-cork alley-oop and a frontside triple cork 1440, was his best result from his three runs.

The halfpipe was the 19-year-old’s only event of the Milano Cortina Games.

Japanese athletes dominated the early runs in the halfpipe final with a trio of riders scoring in the 90s on their first attempts, before Australia’s Scotty James broke into the top positions on his second run.

Team Japan’s 24-year-old Yuto Totsuka won the gold medal in his third Olympics, secured with a 95.00 scored in his second run. James was unable to improve on his final run to finish with back-to-back silver medals in his fifth Olympic appearance.

Japan’s 19-year-old Ryusei Yamada finished with the bronze medal in his first Olympic Games.

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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/2026/02/14/cam-melville-ives-misses-snowboard-halfpipe-medals/

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Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life in prison

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fifty-one people were killed in two attacks on mosques in Christchurch in 2019. RNZ / Nathan Mckinnon

The Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life behind bars but his claims of torturous prison conditions are exaggerated, a court has heard.

Australian white supremacist Brenton Tarrant made the 686 complaints from 16 March 2019 until September 2024, amounting to more than one complaint every three days.

The 35-year-old is serving a life sentence without parole for the 2019 shootings at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre but now wants the Court of Appeal to overturn his convictions and sentence.

The terrorist claims he was “forced” to plead guilty to 92 charges because he was irrational as a result of torturous and inhumane prison conditions.

The white supremacist left 51 people dead or dying in little over 15 minutes after taking an arsenal of semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and incendiary devices to the mosques as worshippers marked Jumu’ah – the most significant prayer of the Muslim week – and opening fire.

The terrorist initially pleaded not guilty in June 2019 to 51 counts of murder, 40 of attempted murder and one of committing terrorism.

The court has heard he wavered in late July 2019 and prepared to plead guilty before again changing his mind only days later.

In March 2020 he formally pleaded guilty to all charges and was jailed for life without the possibility of parole in August 2020.

The terrorist had 20 working days to file an appeal against his conviction or sentence but the “out of time” application came years later.

Crown solicitor Andrea Ewing told the court only four of the terrorist’s 686 complaints related to accessing a lawyer.

She said the terrorist had claimed a complaint was upheld in relation to some kind of physical incident.

“So what we have is a hearsay assertion from Mr Tarrant to his expert that a complaint was upheld,” she said.

The Crown called on the court to dismiss the terrorist’s application for leave to appeal.

Crown solicitor Madeleine Laracy said there was no possible risk of a miscarriage because the terrorist had no legal defence to offer a trial and conviction was certain.

She also called on the court to provide finality for his victims, New Zealand’s Muslim community and the wider public.

“There are literally hundreds of directly harmed victims in this case and keeping this case alive is source of immense distress for those individuals,” Laracy said.

The terrorist’s lawyers reiterated the conditions their client was confined in were unlike anything else present in the prison system.

Justices Christine French, Susan Thomas and David Collins reserved their decision.

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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/2026/02/13/christchurch-terrorist-made-almost-700-complaints-about-life-in-prison/