Category: CTF

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How strong is support for Christopher Luxon? We’re about to find out

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Analysis – The Prime Minister has doubled down in the wake of a horror poll on Friday, saying he is “absolutely not” considering stepping aside from the top job.

Christopher Luxon did a last-minute interview on Newstalk ZB on Friday night after a day of speculation and mounting pressure over whether he could convincingly stay on as prime minister after a new poll showed National had hit 28 percent.

He told ZB, “if there was a problem, I would be doing something about it, but we are a long way away from what we’ve seen published in a TPU poll today”.

The Taxpayers’ Union-Curia poll showed the centre-Left bloc narrowly able to govern with 61 seats to the coalition government bloc’s 59 seats.

It had Labour up slightly on 34, while the Greens, ACT, and Te Pāti Māori were all up on 10.5, 7.5 and 3 respectively.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Education Minister Erica Stanford. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

On Monday, Luxon told RNZ’s Morning Report he wasn’t going anywhere, however, he also said he didn’t ask any of his MPs over the weekend if he had their support because, “they tell me regularly and it’s just not a question that needs to be asked”.

It’s a bold prime minister who assumes the support of his entire caucus after one of his worst weeks in the job, that was bookended by his inability to articulate the government’s position on the Iran conflict last Monday and a poll showing National below the red line of 30 on Friday.

How strong that support is will be made clear when his MPs gather at Parliament on Tuesday morning for their caucus meeting.

The National Party isn’t afraid to tell a few home-truths in their caucus meetings, and Luxon may well be on the receiving end of that this week.

Beyond his caucus’ reckons, the prime minister will also need to manage the concerns of his staff.

On Friday, there were murmurings that some senior staff were increasingly frustrated by their advice being ignored by Luxon and some of the government messaging no longer being convincing.

A poll putting National in the high 20s – the second public poll saying so since October last year – isn’t by any means the end of the prime minister’s career.

It will take a few more polls saying the same thing and a clear trend developing before the pressure will really mount.

At that point it’s those in his caucus who will be turfed out of Parliament first by a worsening National result who will start agitating.

Christopher Luxon and Transport Minister Chris Bishop. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

A potential result in the 20s in November will not only impact senior ministers relying on the success of the party list, such as Nicola Willis, Paul Goldsmith, and Gerry Brownlee, but will also be damaging to swing seats like Hutt South, currently held by Chris Bishop.

At the moment, all of the polling shows the party blocs in a position to govern are still neck-and-neck.

That keeps National very much still in the game.

Probably more concerning for Luxon were the favourability results from Friday’s poll showing his net favourability has fallen three points to -19, well behind Labour leader Chris Hipkins on -5.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Even New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is polling better on that score than Luxon with a score of -8, while closer to home Bishop received -14 and Erica Stanford scored -16.

MPs and ministers arriving at Parliament on Monday morning were all publicly backing Luxon, noting the poll wasn’t positive but the prime minister remained the best person to lead.

That will douse some of the speculation fire for today at least.

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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/2026/03/09/how-strong-is-support-for-christopher-luxon-were-about-to-find-out/

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Cricket: Black Caps lost World Cup final in the powerplays – Santner

Source: Radio New Zealand

Black Cap Finn Allen during the T20 World Cup grand final. www.photosport.nz

The Black Caps are rueing poor performances in both powerplays in their Twenty20 World Cup loss to India – prolonging their wait for a maiden white-ball World Cup title.

Defending champions India thumped New Zealand by 96 runs in Monday morning’s (NZT) final in Ahmedabad.

Batting first, the co-hosts posted a big total of 255/5. Indian batter Sanju Samson top scored with 89 runs, with fellow opener Abhishek Sharma and No.3 Ishan Kishan both scoring half-centuries.

Despite a half-century from opener Tim Seifert, New Zealand couldn’t keep up with the required run rate. Captain Mitchell Santner scored 43 runs at the back of the innings, but it was never going to be enough, and the visitors were eventually all-out for 159.

Jasprit Bumrah took four wickets for India, which became the first team in history to win back-to-back men’s T20 World Cup titles. It’s also India’s biggest win in a T20 World Cup match.

“They showed their class again tonight with that batting performance,” Black Caps captain Mitch Santner told reporters.

“That was the tale of the day – the two powerplays. I think we were three for 40-odd and they were 90-odd for none.”

Samson and Sharma provided an explosive push and rattled up 92 runs in the six powerplay overs. In contrast, New Zealand’s top-order slipped to 52-3 inside six overs, and the chase never quite took off.

Santner said the run chase was always likely to ride on surviving the first six overs and keeping wickets for a surge later, which did not happen.

“You’re not going to win a chase in the powerplay, but you can lose one. If we pick up a couple early and squeeze the middle, maybe 220 is on. At 250, you need a lot to go your way.”

Hardik Pandya of India celebrates after winning the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Grand Final. www.photosport.nz

New Zealand bowler Jimmy Neesham picked up three wickets in the 16th over, but the damage was done early on.

“Whether it was to be braver with yorkers or bouncers, we tried a lot of cutters into the wicket that weren’t offering much,” Santner said.

“We all know we weren’t at our best tonight, and if you’re not at your best against a very good team in a final, you get exposed.”

The Black Caps have a long history of reaching deep into tournaments but have lost multiple finals. They were one day international runners-up in 2015 and 2019, and have now become bridesmaids in two T20 World Cups.

More than 86,000 predominantly Indian supporters packed into Narendra Modi Stadium – the world’s largest cricket ground – and Santner praised the hosts’ execution.

“There was definitely a lot of pressure on India in front of so many people, and they did it outstandingly well.”

Santner told Sky Sport he was proud of his team.

“To make it this far, obviously we had some challenges throughout the tournament but at each stage we kind of got through and put on a good show, obviously tonight we were outplayed by a very good team in front of a great crowd.”

Santner said the Black Caps did a lot right to reach the final, including a very good win over South Africa in the semi-final.

“Different guys stepped up at different times throughout every stage. I think we were confronted with challenges throughout every stage and it was nice to get through, and super eights and then the semi-final, we put on a pretty good show – but I guess tonight we were outplayed, but the boys should be very proud of their work.”

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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/2026/03/09/cricket-black-caps-lost-world-cup-final-in-the-powerplays-santner/

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Fonterra’s $4.22 billion sale of its Mainland Group to Lactalis unconditional

Source: Radio New Zealand

123rf / Supplied images

Dairy co-operative Fonterra says the $4.22 billion sale of its Mainland Group to Lactalis is unconditional, with the sale expected to be completed by the end of the month.

Fonterra said all required regulatory approvals and sale conditions had been satisfied in order to separate from Mainland Group and its global consumer and associated businesses from the co-op.

“Fonterra and Lactalis will now proceed to complete the transaction,” Fonterra said in a market statement.

In February, Fonterra shareholders voted to approve a capital return of $2.00 per share to shareholders and unit-holders following completion of the transaction.

The capital return to shareholders was expected to be 9 April, with a payment date of 14 April, based on the completion of the transaction by the end of the month.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/fonterras-4-22-billion-sale-of-its-mainland-group-to-lactalis-unconditional/

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SH1 closes as truck and car crash near Milton

Source: Radio New Zealand

St John said an ambulance and a helicopter had been sent to the crash site RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson

A helicopter has been sent to a the scene of a collision between a truck and car blocking State Highway 1 near Milton.

The crash happened shortly before 9am near the intersection of Adams Flat Road and Milton Highway.

Police said it appeared people had been injured.

St John said an ambulance and a helicopter had been sent.

NZTA said SH1 near Milton was closed near the intersection with Adams Flat Road.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area where possible and expect delays.

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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/2026/03/09/sh1-closes-as-truck-and-car-crash-near-milton/

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Defiant Christopher Luxon says no discussions needed on his leadership

Source: Radio New Zealand

Christopher Luxon. RNZ / Calvin Samuel

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says he did not ask any of his ministers over the weekend if he had their support, because he did not need to.

There has been speculation in recent days that Luxon is under pressure after a terrible poll result last week that showed his and National’s support slipping.

The latest Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll had National on 28.4 percent – down nearly three points in a month.

Labour was up slightly on 34.4 percent, while the Greens, ACT, and Te Pāti Maori were all up on 10.5, 7.5, and 3.2 respectively. The centre-left bloc would have 61 seats on these results, enough to govern.

On Monday morning, the NZ Herald reported additional figures suggesting voters viewed Luxon less favourably than some of his senior MPs, including Chris Bishop and Erica Stanford. His personal ratings were also below that of Labour leader Chris Hipkins and NZ First leader Winston Peters.

Christopher Luxon with two of his Cabinet colleagues who are seen less unfavourably by voters – Chris Bishop and Erica Stanford. RNZ / Nick Monro

Asked on Morning Report on Monday if any of his MPs thought they could do a better job than him, Luxon said that “isn’t the case”.

“We are very focused as a team on making sure we deliver for New Zealanders. We know the major challenges of the economy – that’s what this election is going to be all about and that’s what we’re focused on.”

Asked if he had checked in with ministers that he had their support, Luxon said “I haven’t needed to because I have their support.”

Asked how he knew if he had not asked them, he said they had told him – some after the poll result.

“They tell me regularly and it’s just not a question that needs to be asked.”

Earlier that morning in his first media appearance of the week, Luxon told TVNZ’s Breakfast he had a “big job to do” and still had no plans to resign.

“I don’t need polls to tell me what’s on New Zealanders’ minds,” he said.

“I talk to them every day, and it’s really obvious they need us to fix the economy so they can lower the cost of living. It’s as simple as that. And that’s what this election is going to be all about, so, that’s what my team and we are focused on doing.”

Christopher Luxon during his last – and only – appearance on Q+A as prime minister, in December 2024. TVNZ

Asked if he had spoken to senior ministers over the weekend, Luxon said he spoke to them “regularly and over time and continue to do so”.

His predecessor as National leader, Judith Collins, in 2018 said she would resign if the party polled below 35 percent. She did not, and led National to one of its worst-ever electoral defeats.

Asked if there was a number that would prompt him to step down, Luxon said no – there was “only one poll” that mattered, the election in November.

“The New Zealand public don’t want me focusing on polls. What they want me doing is focusing on them and making sure that every minute I’ve got… is actually focused on making sure we’re getting things better for them.”

When it was suggested to him many MPs would be worried about losing their jobs on National’s current polling, Luxon said the poll numbers would not be seen on election day.

Luxon and Peters in the House. VNP / Phil Smith

“New Zealanders I talk to every day are telling me, look, this cost of living is really hard, inflation was baked in for a number of years at very high levels… and we have to grow the economy so we can lower the cost of living for people.”

Luxon said he had “total confidence” he would not get rolled.

In a separate interview on Newstalk ZB on Monday morning, Luxon said “hand on heart” he would not quit before the election.

Not avoiding media

Luxon also defended his apparent unwillingness to appear on TVNZ’s weekly political affairs show, Q+A.

Q+A host Jack Tame at the weekend called out Luxon’s absence.

“Despite doing more than 80 broadcasts since Christopher Luxon became prime minister, he hasn’t appeared on the programme for more than 15 months,” a post on the show’s website said, noting he had only appeared on the show once since taking on the top job.

“I make myself very available to the media throughout the course of any given week,” Luxon told Morning Report on Monday, after also speaking to Breakfast and Newstalk ZB.

Asked about Q+A specifically, Luxon said that decision was made by his media team.

“As to which outlets we talk to, as to based on who they talk to and how they reach and what their ratings look like,” he said.

“But I think when you look at any leader around the world and the accessibility you have to me as media, it’s pretty high.”

Asked directly if Q+A‘s ratings were the issue, Luxon said they were not.

“No, I’m just saying there’ll be reasons for why we choose who we engage with and when we do that… I’m sure I’ll do it again, but it’s just a question of – we get lots of media requests.”

National’s polling ‘not my concern’ – Peters

Peters said coalition partner National’s polling woes were “not my concern”.

“It’s not happening to my party,” he told Morning Report. NZ First polled at 9.7 percent, down from 10.5 (inside the margin of error).

“There’s an election coming, and some of the things that are being put out by way of speculation at the moment is absolutely astonishing. The great thing about politics, it’s a learning curve, and some have to get on it still, even though they’ve been in it for a long time.”

Peters’ party had been in coalition with National before when it changed leaders – notably in the late 1990s when Dame Jenny Shipley rolled Jim Bolger, fracturing the coalition and contributing to its defeat in the 1999 election.

“Look, I’d like to pride myself on not getting involved in these matters, but sitting on the outside with a blank piece of paper, you look at every possible permutation and make sure that you’ve got it covered,” he said.

“This country of ours called New Zealand demands a thing called stability, and my job is to provide it to the best of my ability.”

‘Too messy’ for a coup

RNZ political editor Jo Moir said it was not likely the prime minister would be rolled anytime soon.

She told Morning Report Christopher Luxon would have had to do an interview with Newstalk ZB, in which he denied coup speculation, on Friday to calm things down.

“There was no way he could have gone into the weekend with the country thinking he was considering his future.”

Luxon would have had lots of conversations over the weekend about how to reclaim the narrative, Moir says.

With a big morning media round, and the post Cabinet media conference on Monday afternoon – both of which he finds a little difficult – it would have been a big weekend of trying to work out the specific language, Moir says.

“I don’t think we’re in the territory of a coup or him being rolled,” she said.

With a three-way coalition, any thought of instability and the possibility of having to renegotiate an agreement with a new leader was “incredibly messy”.

If National polled consistently in the 20s, then it would start to get more difficult, but it would be for the party’s caucus to do the convincing and not Luxon suddenly deciding it was time to go, Moir said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/defiant-christopher-luxon-says-no-discussions-needed-on-his-leadership/

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NZ skier Alice Robinson in two-way battle for super-G title

Source: Radio New Zealand

Alice Robinson competes in the Women’s Super G event. FABRICE COFFRINI / AFP

New Zealand skier Alice Robinson has to finish at least second in the final race of the season to have any chance of claiming the overall super-G title, after placing fourth in the penultimate round in Val di Fassa.

Robinson closed the gap on series leader Sofia Goggia but it will be a big ask to usurp the Italian at the finals in Norway on the 22nd March.

Goggia, who finished ninth in Italy on Monday morning, leads Robinson by 63 points in the race to the World Cup super-G title.

Robinson, now the only other woman who can win the super-G title, was joint fourth. Italian Elena Curtoni won her home event.

German skier Emma Aicher failed to score, leaving her 145 points behind Goggia and out of super-G title contention.

Robinson, who finished eighth at last month’s Milano Cortina Olympics, said she will throw everything at the final event.

“It was not as hard as I was expecting [today], so I could have maybe pushed a little bit harder. We’ve got one more race so I am happy to give that everything but it’s a little bit frustrating,” Robinson said.

Meanwhile, US Alpine ski great Mikaela Shiffrin boosted her overall World Cup lead with a rare super-G appearance as closest rival Aicher did not finish.

Shiffrin, who is hoping to end the season with a sixth overall Crystal Globe, finished 23rd but the eight points stretched her lead over Aicher to 125 with six races remaining across all disciplines.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/nz-skier-alice-robinson-in-two-way-battle-for-super-g-title/

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Interislander sailing cancelled after technical fault found

Source: Radio New Zealand

File photo. Supplied / Regan Ingley

A single return sailing had to be cancelled on the Interislander’s Kaiārahi ferry after an intermittent technical fault was discovered just hours before a scheduled maintenance layby.

Interislander operations general manager Taru Sawhney said Kaiārahi was berthing in Wellington around 2.30am on Saturday morning when the fault was discovered. It did berth safely.

The ferry was on a scheduled maintenance layby between Saturday afternoon and Monday afternoon.

Sawhney said Kaiārahi’s scheduled 3.30am Saturday sailing and return from Picton had to be cancelled while the fault was investigated.

“We did a lot of work carrying out further investigations, repairs and testing over the weekend layby.”

Sawhney said the ferry had to undergo final sea trials and approvals on Monday before it could resume service.

As this was a process that took time and as a precaution, Interislander cancelled Kaiārahi’s next scheduled service from Wellington at 3.30pm on Monday and 9.30pm return from Picton.

“We apologise for this disruption but safety has to be the priority. All freight and passenger bookings on the sailings will be cancelled. Passengers will be moved to alternative sailings where possible or offered a full refund.

“We expect Kaiārahi will return to service, leaving Wellington at 3.30am on Tuesday.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/interislander-sailing-cancelled-after-technical-fault-found/

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Road blocked, Milton Highway/SH1, Milton

Source: New Zealand Police

Milton Highway/State Highway 1, Milton, is blocked following a crash, involving a truck and car, this morning.

Police were called to the crash just before 9am, near the intersection of Adams Flat Road and Milton Highway.

Initial indicators are that there are injuries.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible and expect delays.

ENDS

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/road-blocked-milton-highway-sh1-milton/

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Drivers flock to pumps as concern grows over fuel prices

Source: Radio New Zealand

Marika Khabazi

Petrol stations across the country are seeing a surge of drivers filling up as tensions in the Middle East push the global oil prices higher.

Over the weekend, RNZ spoke to drivers queuing at a petrol station to get in before the price goes up.

“The later I leave it, the more the petrol prices are going up. This is more expensive than yesterday,” one woman said.

“Probably the price will go up again tomorrow, I think, so even I’m only half full, it’s good to get some petrol in there,” a man said.

Waitomo Group chief executive Simon Parham told Morning Report the demand at the company’s petrol stations went up 15 to 20 percent over the past week as people tried to get in before prices increased.

“Over the last week, we’ve seen the Singapore Platts price go up by about $60 a barrel.

“I’ve been doing this for 25 years and that’s probably one of the biggest spikes I’ve seen.”

Parham said prices will move more in the next week.

On supply, there was 20 days stock in the country and cargo was arriving by ship every other day, he said.

“I think we’re in a reasonably good place. It’s a good reminder that over 80 percent of the supply doesn’t go through the Strait of Hormuz.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/drivers-flock-to-pumps-as-concern-grows-over-fuel-prices/

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Retired school teacher leaves a legacy for nature

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

29 years of planting leaves a legacy for Buller High School and retired school teacher Janet Pottinger. 

Late in 2025, DOC staff in the Buller Kawatiri office headed out to Tauranga Bay to take part in a planting day which both marked the retirement of a local schoolteacher, Janet Pottinger, who spearheaded work to restore native vegetation in the Bay and the adjoining Cape Foulwind with the mahi of the Buller High School Year 9 environmental programme since 1997. 

Janet Pottinger at the final planting in November 2025

Four times a year since 1997, these students have planted native shrubs and trees along a walkway, sea front and car parks. Originally, the walkway was through windswept open paddocks that have since been transformed into a dramatic environment of native vegetation.  

The main plant chosen for the project has been harakeke, which grows quickly, is very hardy in a coastal environment and creates a great habitat and a food source for native birds and other animals. Other native plants can grow in the shelter of the harakeke.  

Planting in 2004 and another picture taken in 2015 (left), this area is now totally covered in flax and vegetation (right).

Birds, attracted to its summer flowering bring seeds with them to speed this process. The revegetated areas support sooty shearwaters, blue penguins, fairy prions, weka, seals and many other native birds, lizards and invertebrates.  The aesthetic values of the area have been greatly enhanced.  

A roadside area pre-planting in 2010 (left), and just six years later in 2016 (right).

At the final planting, Janet remarked that the timing of the final planting had worked out pretty well, as she was retiring and there was nowhere left to plant! If you are naturing at Tauranga Bay and Cape Foulwind, it’s hard to believe that 29 years ago, the place was bare pasture and grassland. 

Ex DOC Ranger John Green, who attended the final planting says that when the area came into DOC management in 1987, they were finding dead penguins from dog attacks “all the time”, and cattle were collapsing shearwater burrows. The view at the Bay is now picturesque, with flaxes and native vegetation framing the bay and headland, where thousands of visitors go to visit seals and walk one of DOC’s most popular tracks in the area: Cape Foulwind Walkway

Before and after on the track – this change came quickly, the first photo was taken in 2004 (left), the second in 2008 (right).

John says the plantings haven’t just made the place look good, they’ve helped all the species that live there, who benefit from the shelter and enriched habitat the plantings provide. 

On the statistics side of things, Janet says 12,425 plants have gone in the ground, approximately 2800 students have been involved and over the 29 years there have been 108 planting trips.   

Buller High Students in a previously grassed area which has been planted by successive Year 9 environmental class students.

“Over the years I have found that the students were always very enthusiastic about the trees they planted and many of them were proud to show their whanau years later how much their plants had grown. 

“The school should be really proud, it’s been an amazing partnership with DOC, and we’ve even had a second generation of students planting, following on from their parents before them.” 

The work of Buller High students over 29 years shows the value of doing a little, often. Just four plantings a year have transformed windswept grasses into a rich native habitat. 

Through the years the project has been awarded a West Coast Tai Poutini Conservation Award, a Trustpower West Coast Supreme Award, and a Plant Conservation Network Award. Well done Janet and Buller High School and thankyou for bringing back nature to this place.  

Janet is happy to help or give advice to any other schools or groups who want to do something similar, so if you are in that category, get in touch via info@doc.govt.nz, referencing this blog. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/retired-school-teacher-leaves-a-legacy-for-nature/

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New team to strengthen consumer voice

Source: PHARMAC

Introducing our Consumer Relations team – responsible for ensuring Pharmac works meaningfully with consumers. 

“Good engagement really matters because it helps Pharmac make decisions that genuinely reflect people’s needs,” says External Engagement team Manager, Ryan Perica. 

“When we engage openly, people can see that their views matter and really do help shape what we do.” 

The need for improved consumer relations was highlighted by feedback from consumer workshops held in 2024. Establishing the team was an action in Pharmac’s Reset Programme, focused on delivering meaningful change for consumers and patients. 

“We have been working hard to stand up this new team, and I’m really excited to see this work come to fruition,” says Perica. “We’ve got some very skilled people on board to support stronger engagement across the organisation.”  

The newly established team is made up of the Manager, External Engagement, three Principal Advisors, Consumer Relations, and an engagement coordinator who collectively bring decades of experience specialising in engagement both in New Zealand (across both the public and private sectors) and internationally. 

The team will make it easier for consumer and patient representatives to work with Pharmac – ensuring interactions are transparent, empathetic and responsive. 

They will facilitate day‑to‑day engagement with consumer representatives, strengthen key relationships, and ensure diverse lived‑experience informs Pharmac’s decisions. 

We want consumers and staff to see us as an essential part of how Pharmac works,” says Perica. “Building strong relationships takes time – and that investment is always worth it.” 

More on the Consumer Relations team 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/new-team-to-strengthen-consumer-voice/

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Obesity experts advise on new treatments

Source: PHARMAC

With high obesity rates in New Zealand and new medicines entering the market, public interest in weight‑loss treatments is understandably strong. 

In June 2025 Medsafe approved semaglutide (Wegovy) for use in New Zealand for weight loss. Medsafe approves medicines for use in New Zealand. They check that these products meet our standards for safety and quality, and that they work as well as we expect them to.  

Pharmac has received three applications to fund semaglutide(external link) for the following conditions: 

  • weight management for people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m2 or more with at least one weight-related health condition
  • insufficiently controlled type 2 diabetes  
  • cardiovascular disease with a body mass index (BMI) of 27 kg/m2 or more.

 To help us assess these medicines, a new Obesity Treatments Advisory Group (OTAG) was established and met for the first time in December last year. The group includes a range of clinical expertise and provides objective advice on new obesity treatments and future opportunities. 

 Pharmac’s Manager Expert Advisory, Caroline De Luca, says this is the first step in gathering advice to inform this complicated decision that could affect many New Zealanders lives.

 “When we make funding decisions, we need input from clinical experts in New Zealand so we can understand how the evidence relates in a local context.”

 The current members of the group are:

  • Dr Liza Lack – Clinical Director, National Hauora Coalition – Waikato (Chair – PTAC Member)
  • Dr Bruce King (Chair) – Specialist Internal Medicine and Nephrology (PTAC Member)
  • Dr Wing Cheuk Chan – Public Health Physician
  • Dr Jo McClintock – Clinical Psychologist
  • Dr Rawiri McKree Jansen – General Practitioner
  • Prof Rinki Murphy – Specialist Diabetes Physician
  • Dr James Shand – Endocrinologist
  • Dr Samuel Whittaker – General Practitioner 

 OTAG reviewed the application to fund semaglutide for weight loss in December 2025. The group’s provisional recommendation [PDF](external link) is that Pharmac fund it for chronic weight management in people with a high body mass index (BMI) and associated comorbidities, with a high priority. The full record of the meeting is expected to be available by March.

A recommendation from OTAG is not a guarantee that Pharmac will fund a medicine. It is a vital step in the process for considering this application, but it is not the only consideration.

The OTAG advice will contribute to Pharmac’s assessment of the role of these medicines in New Zealand and consider the impact on individuals, whānau, caregivers, and the wider health system. We will continue to seek input from the clinical and patient communities.

More about our advisory groups

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/obesity-experts-advise-on-new-treatments/

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Reset Programme reflects on progress to transform engagement

Source: PHARMAC

With February marking one year since publication of the Consumer Engagement Workshop Report, it’s a good time to reflect on the positive progress being made to transform Pharmac’s relationship with stakeholders through the Reset Programme.

The report captured the feedback of consumers who had earlier shared their experiences engaging with Pharmac. A clear theme was the need for the organisation to completely reset its approach to consumer and patient engagement to rebuild trust and credibility.

Recommendations from the report also led to establishment of the Consumer and Patient Working Group, chaired by Dr Malcolm Mulholland.

“We’re extremely grateful to have this group providing their insights to help us improve the way we engage with consumers and to make that sure we reflect their needs and perspectives when delivering our work,” says Pharmac Chief Executive, Natalie McMurtry. “This is also supported by the work being done by the existing statutory Consumer Advisory Committee.”

Some of the key milestones achieved by the Reset Programme and its partners to date include:

  • Establishment of the Consumer and Patient Working Group to support the design and delivery of the 12-month Reset Programme
  • Building a centralised consumer database to support improved engagement
  • Creation of a dedicated Consumer Relations Team to strengthen Pharmac’s relationships with consumer and patient groups
  • Feedback from the Consumer and Patient Working Group incorporated into budget information to better demonstrate patient impact
  • Ongoing improvements to the medicines funding application process to ensure a better experience for consumers.
  • Multiple workshops held with the Consumer and Patient Working Group to shape the future 4-year improvement workplan.

Looking ahead, a key focus for the Consumer and Patient Working Group and the Reset Programme is helping to create a Consumer Engagement Framework.

This framework will explain when and how we ask for consumer feedback, how we use people’s insights in our decision-making, and how we intend keep people updated on progress. It’s about making sure consumer voices are included in a consistent, reliable way – both in our future improvement work and in our everyday processes.

The framework will also help ensure a smooth transition once the Reset Programme and the Consumer and Patient Working Group finish on 30 June this year, ensuring that consumer perspectives continue to shape our work in a strong and practical way.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/reset-programme-reflects-on-progress-to-transform-engagement/

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Funding medicines for people with high health needs

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac is working to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders, including those with the highest health needs. This includes Māori, Pacific peoples, disabled people, women, and people living rurally. 


“Health equity ensures everyone has fair access to health care and the opportunity to live well, regardless of who they are or where they come from,” says Director Equity and Engagement, Dr Nicola Ngawati. 

Pharmac’s Equity Policy recognises that different people have different levels of advantage. Pharmac applies an equity lens when making funding decisions. 

Our role under the Pae Ora (Healthy Futures) Act 2022 is to secure for eligible people in need of pharmaceuticals, the best health outcomes that are reasonably achievable from pharmaceutical treatment. 

Some of the medicines we’ve funded recently are making a real difference for these groups. Below are some specific medicines and their reach for high needs health groups (from 1 October 2024 to 31 January 2026). 

Palivizumab (RSV prevention)

Protects premature and high-risk infants from severe RSV illness. Māori and Pacific babies are more likely to need this treatment. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 34.3%
  • Pacific– 11.3%
  • Female – 44.6%
  • Rural – 15.7%

Triple inhaler (Budesonide + Glycopyrronium + Eformoterol)

Helps manage COPD, which impacts Māori up to 20 years earlier and causes death at five times the rate of non-Māori. Funded from 1 January 2025. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 28.4%
  • Pacific – 4.5%
  • Women – 57.3%
  • Rural – 24.1%

Insulin (Ryzodeg)

Diabetes prevalence among Māori and Pacific people is about three times higher than other population groups. Funded from May 2025. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 24.1%
  • Pacific – 19.3%
  • Women – 48.8%
  • Rural – 17.9%

Empagliflozen

This medicine helps reduce cardiovascular hospitalisation, slow kidney decline, and improve glycaemic control. Recipients by health group: 

  • Māori – 21.8%
  • Pacific – 7.6%
  • Women – 33.8%
  • Rural – 25.7%

Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF)

From 1 December 2025, Pharmac began funding silver diamine fluoride (SDF) for the treatment and prevention of tooth decay. Dental cavities disproportionately affect Māori, Pacific peoples and people in areas of higher depravation. 

Poor oral health can impact daily life and cause pain and embarrassment. Although SDF is in the early days of funding, its use is expected to reduce the need for hospital‑based dental treatment, remove cost barriers and improve wellbeing.

“We’re pleased that these statistics indicate our funded medicines are reaching those who need them most. We’ll continue to focus on increasing access to key medicines for these groups,” says Dr Ngawati.

“This work is extremely important. By reducing avoidable differences in health outcomes – we create a healthier New Zealand for everyone.”

Note: All figures are from the Pharmaceutical Collection dataset(external link) (as extracted and analysed by Pharmac).

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/funding-medicines-for-people-with-high-health-needs/

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Collaboration on medical device procurement

Source: PHARMAC

Pharmac and Health New Zealand (Health NZ) are working towards a more streamlined and coordinated national approach to hospital medical device procurement.

The Government announced changes to the procurement of hospital medical devices(external link) in September last year. Pharmac and Health NZ are now jointly responsible for procuring medical devices, with Pharmac leading procurement for 27 categories of medical devices, and Health NZ leading 28.

Catherine Epps, Pharmac’s Director of Medical Devices, says a programme of work is underway that will deliver greater transparency, consistency and collaboration in medical device procurement across the health system.

 “Our work will ensure the medical devices used in our public hospitals deliver better value and more consistent, fair access for people across the country. Strengthening our partnership with Health NZ and working closely with suppliers means we can make better‑informed decisions and deliver better outcomes.”

Pharmac has agreed a framework with Health NZ for delivering a range of Health Technology Assessments (HTA). We’re now working together to plan a broader programme, including formalising how commissioning and HTA processes will work.

 “It’s encouraging to see the shared commitment to building a more aligned and coordinated approach. This will mean clearer roles, clearer decision points, and more consistent ways of working – giving the sector greater predictability and transparency,” says Epps.

 Over the coming months, the programme will continue to transition to a new joint leadership approach for hospital medical devices and strengthen engagement across the sector.

“It’s an exciting time to be working in medical devices in New Zealand. I’m confident that the work we’re doing now is setting us up to make medical devices procurement work better for everyone involved.”

 More information: 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/collaboration-on-medical-device-procurement/

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New agreement improves access to treatment for New Zealanders

Source: PHARMAC

A multiproduct agreement, which took effect on 1 December last year, is delivering significant benefits for patients and the health system – freeing up thousands of infusion hours and helping services run more efficiently. 

Under the agreement Pharmac is funding five treatments for multiple sclerosis, breast cancer, lung cancer and serious eye conditions. 

Vice President of Multiple Sclerosis New Zealand, Graham Walker, says the new treatments are a ‘game changer’. 

“I got a text the other day from a friend in Christchurch who said his treatment had taken an hour, starting from his arrival at the hospital to catching the bus home. He thought it was marvellous.” 

“There’s also a lot of people that have trouble getting treatment simply because there’s no room at the infusion centre. Now six or seven people can be treated in the time it took to treat one. That’s huge!” 

The agreement with pharmaceutical supplier Roche includes two new treatments, more convenient versions of existing medicines, and continued access to an already funded treatment 

“We were able to fund new medicines through this agreement, but what I’m most pleased about is the impact the new and improved existing treatments will have on people’s lives,” says Pharmaceutical Director, Adrienne Martin. 

“The new injectable treatments can be completed in 15 minutes compared to 3-5 hours for intravenous infusions. 

The reduction in infusion times is expected to save the health system $11 million over five years. It will also ease pressure on hospital services and improve access for patients who previously faced long wait times. 

Read Decision to fund treatments for multiple sclerosis, eye conditions, breast cancer and lung cancer for more details.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/new-agreement-improves-access-to-treatment-for-new-zealanders/

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Police ramp up recruitment efforts in Auckland as drain to Australia slows

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police have ramped up recruitment efforts in Auckland with hopes to bring more Kiwis into the force, and tempt those currently working in Australia to return home.

They partnered with ‘Round the Bays’ in Auckland on Sunday, announcing that more recruit wings were coming to the city.

New Zealand Police’s Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers told Morning Report the 2.4km police requirement was marked at the event, and 120 people signed up to start the process.

“It’s all different variances about how fast they have to go, but what generally happens is they accrue a group of points, and that tells us whether or not they’re ready to come into our pipeline to get processed as a potential applicant,” she said.”

Last year, police signed a long-term lease with Massey University in Auckland to begin training courses next month.

Rogers said it was very popular, with their second wing in week five of their 20-week training.

“We know that there’s a group of people here who, for a whole range of reasons, can’t go to our campus in Porirua,” she said.

“So excited to announce that we’ve got our third wing starting on the 29th of June and yesterday, if anything’s to go by, it’s proven to be really popular again.”

She said the majority of police training could be done at the Massey campus, but firearms and driving training was still held in Porirua.

Rogers said the policing in New Zealand was still an attractive career as it was a stable employer.

“We offer really great possibilities for people to come into our organisation and so we got 120 people who signed up yesterday, and that’s sort of the people that we’re looking for, motivated, fit and enthusiastic, ready to come into the organisation,” she said.

She said the police drain to Australia had had definitely slowed.

“We think that since we started tracking the numbers a couple of years ago, it’s definitely slowed.

“And yes, last year we rejoined 100 officers, which is the most we have ever returned to New Zealand Police and a number of those were people that had tried out policing across the ditch.”

Rogers said while they couldn’t match Australia’s pay, their conditions did.

“Our pay will always be different to what the jurisdictions across the ditch are offering,” she said.

“But the style of policing and some of the resources that we offer to our people are different and that’s what’s making people want to come back.”

The pay is not everything, Rogers said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/police-ramp-up-recruitment-efforts-in-auckland-as-drain-to-australia-slows/

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Landmark case could force rewrite of emissions strategy

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Government’s second Emissions Reduction Plan – ERP2 – will be the focal point for a trial being held at Wellington High Court. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Two environmental groups are taking the government to court over the country’s second Emissions Reduction Plan and its ‘risky’ reliance on trees. The verdict will not just interpret the law but will test the country’s climate ambition.

Climate policy is being increasingly dragged into courtrooms around the world.

That’s exactly where the fight over the NZ government’s emissions blueprint is headed – and the stakes could not be higher for the country’s climate future.

At the centre of the landmark legal clash, set to play out in the Wellington High Court in less than a fortnight, is the country’s second Emissions Reduction Plan – ERP2 – a document meant to map how we cut pollution and hit net-zero targets.

It was unveiled by Climate Change Minister Simon Watts just over a year ago, with him stating at the time that “our plan shows that we can meet climate targets while still supporting a thriving economy”.

On paper, the plan is the rulebook for a cleaner future. In court, it is set to be called something else entirely: risky.

Newsroom political journalist Marc Daalder will cover the three-day hearing, where lawyers for Climate Action NZ and the Environmental Law Initiative will take on the minister.

“The climate doesn’t normally get lawyers, but this month it’s going to have its day in court as the government’s climate plans are challenged by environmental groups who say they don’t go far enough,” Daadler tells The Detail.

“It’s potentially a landmark case in climate litigation because it challenges the government’s actions in so many different areas, particularly around their reliance on trees to offset emissions instead of actually reducing emissions.”

He says the litigants will argue that the plan leans too heavily on forestry removals – planting pine trees to absorb carbon – instead of tackling emissions at their source.

The translation is simple – the country is relying on nature to mop up pollution rather than stopping the pollution in the first place.

“John Key said we should be a fast follower, not a leader on climate. It doesn’t seem like we are a follower at all if our goal is how many trees can we plant,” says Daalder, who says the government hasn’t commented on the case due to it being before the courts.

Supporters of forestry offsets will argue that trees are a legitimate tool to fight climate change – fast-growing plantations can absorb vast amounts of carbon.

But opponents, Daalder says, will claim that forests can burn, be cut or knocked down, or be planted for production.

He believes the case will attract an international audience.

“I think people will be watching it. It is always difficult to tell where a judge might land, and also how long these things can take to play out … but people will be watching it. It can definitely have an impact.

“I wouldn’t say this will be the one thing that will change everything, but it’s one other tool in the arsenal of people who are concerned about climate and want to see more action.”

If the court finds the plan doesn’t meet legal requirements, it could potentially force ministers to rewrite policy, or recalculate targets, or perhaps cut emissions across different sectors.

Daalder says climate cases are becoming more common worldwide, with lawyers, scientists, and advocacy groups turning to courts to hold governments accountable for climate promises.

Last July, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) issued its groundbreaking Advisory Opinion, in which it, for the first time, it specified the obligations of states under international law in respect of climate change.

“We are seeing a little bit more of this action in New Zealand. Litigation is a tool for advancing climate outcomes, and environmental outcomes are growing overseas.

“You will hear about cases in the United States, in the Netherlands, where, for example, the Shell oil company has been found in court to have insufficient plans to reduce its own emissions. And various governments are being sued around the world, as well.”

Lawyers involved in the New Zealand case told The Detail it is “the first case internationally to challenge a government for relying on tree planting to meet climate obligations at the expense of actual emissions reductions”.

They will have their day in court from March 16th, and then a judge will decide whether our country’s climate balance is real – or simply looks good on paper.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/landmark-case-could-force-rewrite-of-emissions-strategy/

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Lanes blocked: SH1, Bombay

Source: New Zealand Police

State Highway One has been reduced to one northbound lane following a crash earlier this morning.

Police were alerted to the crash near the Beaver Road off ramp between a car and a truck at 7.12am.

One person has suffered moderate injuries.

Police are working to clear the blocked lane however advise motorists to expect delays.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/09/lanes-blocked-sh1-bombay/

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Kiwi Paul Coll wins third NZ Squash Open title

Source: Radio New Zealand

Paul Coll in action at the New Zealand Open in Christchurch. photosport

Squash star Paul Coll defended his New Zealand Open title in Christchurch on Sunday, with a dominant 11-7, 11-2, 11-5 victory over Egyptian teenager Mohamad Zakaria in the final.

It’s the Kiwi’s third successive New Zealand Open triumph.

Zakaria rallied from a 4-2 deficit to lead 8-7 in the opening game, but that’s where the points ended for the two-time junior world champion.

Coll lifted his intensity and dictated terms with superior court positioning, stringing together four consecutive points to take the game 11-8.

The West Coaster held that momentum in the second game and looked to capitalise on tired legs after Zakaria’s marathon semi-final triumph less than 24 hours prior.

The world number two looked to take the ball early and seemed more comfortable in the longer rallies knowing fatigue was becoming a factor. Coll won the first eight points after the resumption, before clinching the second game 11-2 to take a commanding 2-0 lead.

There was no stopping Coll from there with the finish line in sight in front of friends and family who made the trip from the West Coast. He maintained his level, putting the hammer down to win the third game 11-5 inside seven minutes.

A “stoked” Coll said claiming the title at the Isaac Theatre Royal stage meant a lot to him.

“I’m very happy to win the NZ Squash Open for the third time. I was feeling a bit nervous, he [Zakaria] had a monster match yesterday. I knew he was going to feel tired, but I was trying to put that out of my mind and play my squash,” Coll said.

With the win Coll extended his unbeaten record to 8-0 on the Isaac Theatre Royal stage and moved to a 27-1 overall record for PSA matches held in New Zealand.

“Last year all the players left here saying how good it was and it was such a good showcase for New Zealand. I’m sure it’ll be great in Palmerston North in 2027, I’ll definitely be back to try and make it four [in a row],” Coll said.

Earlier, the Christchurch crowd was treated to a sibling rivalry in the NZ Women’s Open decider as top seed Tinne Gilles held her nerve to beat younger sister Nele 11-6, 5-11, 12-10, 11-9 in 78 minutes.

It’s the Belgian’s first New Zealand Open title, and just her second win in 11 attempts on the PSA Tour against Nele.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/kiwi-paul-coll-wins-third-nz-squash-open-title/