Category: DJF

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Economy – 1970s-style stagflation could hit global economy: deVere CEO

Source: deVere Group

March 25 2026 – Households, businesses and investors should prepare for 1970’s-style global stagflation, warns the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory organisations.

Nigel Green of deVere Group is speaking out after private sector output in the euro zone sank to a 10-month low in March, amid mounting evidence of the impact the Iran conflict is having on the global economy.

He says: “The figures show the severe impact the Iran war is already having on the euro zone economy.

“But, like in the 1970s, stagflation could become a widespread global phenomenon characterised by high inflation, low growth, and high unemployment, heavily driven by oil price shocks.

“Back then it hit most developed economies, including the US, Canada, Western Europe, and Japan, largely ending the post-war economic expansion, and it looks like a spectre that may be looming once again.”

Recent flash PMI data underscores the shift. Euro zone business activity has slowed sharply, with the headline index hovering just above the contraction threshold at 50.5, down from 51.9 the previous month.

Cost pressures are accelerating at the fastest pace in more than three years as energy prices surge and supply chains tighten.

“Oil and gas prices are feeding directly into production costs, transport, and ultimately consumer prices. At the same time, demand is weakening.

“This combination is toxic. Growth is fading just as inflation is being reignited. Central banks have very limited room to respond effectively,” explains the deVere CEO.

Energy markets have tightened rapidly since the escalation of tensions involving Iran, with crude prices pushing higher and shipping disruptions adding further strain.

“Europe and Asia remain particularly exposed due to its reliance on imported energy, leaving businesses vulnerable to sustained price volatility.”

He continues: “Investors need to recognise that traditional assumptions are breaking down. Bonds may not offer the same protection if inflation remains elevated. Equities face margin pressure as input costs rise and consumers pull back.

“Cash loses value in real terms in an inflationary environment. Standing still is not a strategy.”

The European Central Bank has already signalled weaker growth expectations for 2026, projecting sub-1% expansion, while inflation forecasts risk drifting higher if energy prices remain elevated.

Surveys indicate declining business confidence and softer hiring intentions, reinforcing concerns that the slowdown is gaining traction.

“Preparation is essential. Portfolios must be structured for resilience, not optimism. Investors should be increasing exposure to assets that historically perform in inflationary periods, including commodities, energy producers, and selective real assets.

“In terms of equities, the focus must shift to sectors with pricing power and strong balance sheets. Companies able to pass on higher costs without destroying demand will outperform.”

Currency markets are also likely to reflect the divergence in economic performance and policy responses.

Risk-sensitive currencies could come under pressure, while volatility across foreign exchange markets is expected to increase.

Nigel Green comments: “Diversification across currencies, geographies, asset classes and sectors becomes more important in this environment. Overconcentration in any single one increases vulnerability.”

Geopolitical risk now sits at the centre of the economic outlook. Prolonged conflict in the Middle East would sustain pressure on energy markets, while any escalation could trigger further supply disruptions.

Duration matters. A short-lived shock is manageable. A prolonged period of elevated energy prices changes the entire economic trajectory.

Policy makers are already facing difficult trade-offs. Raising rates to control inflation risks deepening the slowdown. Cutting rates to support growth risks fuelling further inflation. “Clearly, neither path is straightforward,” notes the CEO.

Nigel Green concludes: “Complacency is the biggest risk. Stagflation is not a theoretical scenario; the early signals are already visible in the data.

“Investors who act decisively, diversify intelligently, and prioritise real returns over nominal gains will be best positioned to protect and grow wealth in the period ahead.”

deVere Group is one of the world’s largest independent advisors of specialist global financial solutions to international, local mass affluent, and high-net-worth clients.  It has a network of offices around the world, more than 80,000 clients, and $14bn under advisement.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/25/economy-1970s-style-stagflation-could-hit-global-economy-devere-ceo/

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Update: Common Room bar fight, Hastings

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Heath Jones, Hastings Criminal Investigation Branch:

Hasting Police have arrested and charged a person in relation to a fight at the Common Room bar earlier this month.

Police responded to the fight around 1.45am on Sunday 8 March, where several people were injured – some seriously, with one requiring hospital treatment.

Police arrested one man today in relation to the incident. The 32-year-old is due in Hastings District Court tomorrow, charged with five counts of assault with intent to injure, three counts of injuring with intent to injure, injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and assault.

Police are not ruling out any further arrests and would like to speak with the five people pictured, as we believe they may be able to assist in our enquiries.

If this is you, or you know who these people are, please get in touch through 105 – either online or over the phone – and reference file number 260308/6292.

Alternatively, information can be provided through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/25/update-common-room-bar-fight-hastings/

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White Ferns win T20 dead rubber against South Africa

Source: Radio New Zealand

Amelia Kerr scored her first international T20 century against South Africa in Christchurch. © Photosport Ltd 2026 www.photosport.nz

The White Ferns had already won the T20 series against South Africa ahead of final game of the five match series in Christchurch and a 92-run win on Wednesday just emphasised their dominance.

A captain’s knock from number three batter Melie Kerr of 105 off 55 balls helped the White Ferns rebuild from the loss of early wickets to post a total of 194-6.

Kerr was at the crease after just eight balls had been bowled and New Zealand were 9-1 before she went on to bring up her first international T20 century.

She was out with three balls remaining in the innings.

Opener Georgia Plimmer was the White Ferns’ next highest scorer with 27 off 26 balls.

South Africa split the wickets between Ayabonga Khaka and Tumi Sekhukhune who took three each.

In reply, the visitors were also 9-1 in the second over as Lea Tahuhu struck to dismiss Chloe Tryon for one.

South Africa were then 41-4 after the six overs of powerplay and ended on 102-9.

Most of the Proteas batting line-up failed to make double figures as five New Zealand bowlers took wickets.

Tahuhu was the best of the White Ferns bowlers with 3-15 off her four overs.

The two teams now move on to a three match one-day series beginning on Sunday in Christchurch.

See how the match unfolded here:

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/white-ferns-win-t20-dead-rubber-against-south-africa/

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‘We tend to lurch from crises to crises’ – call for national food security plan

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealanders are at risk of losing access to their own food, say experts. File photo. 123RF

A plan is needed to ensure Aotearoa’s food production is protected, says Eat NZ.

McCain announced yesterday it will close its Hastings frozen vegetable plant early next year.

Wattie’s has also proposed stopping all frozen vegetable production, as well as some other food products, which would see three manufacturing plants close.

Growers have also been feeling the bite from both rising fuel and fertiliser prices, and Angela Clifford – chief executive not-for-profit Eat New Zealand – says now is the time for a national food security plan.

“We tend to lurch from crises to crises without doing the work in between times to make us more resilient for the next time these crises arrive.”

Clifford highlighted the Hunger Monitor report, which showed that one in three Kiwi families struggled for food in the past year, and she says New Zealanders are losing access to their own food.

“That is often framed as our fault because we can’t afford it, but I would argue that there is also an opportunity for supermarket to ensure our own food remains on our shelves to create better long-term security for our country.”

Clifford said more and more of the food New Zealanders eat was imported, such as US butter being sold in supermarkets as the cheaper option, as well as the sourcing of supermarket homebrand lines from overseas.

When asked about this, Foodstuffs said nearly 70 percent of the products that it sourced for its own brand Pams was from New Zealand.

A spokesperson told RNZ that Wattie’s was a significant supplier of Pams frozen vegetables and other items and it was now looking for alternative suppliers.

Foodstuffs said it was always looking to work with local producers.

“At the same time, any supplier needs to be able to deliver consistent quality, reliable volume at scale, and good value for customers. Where New Zealand producers can do that, they’ll absolutely be part of the mix.”

Woolworths said about 45 percent of its own brand frozen vegetables were grown in New Zealand, and Wattie’s and McCain are not among the suppliers.

“Across our Own Brand range we will always look for New Zealand-sourced products where we can find solutions that meet our customers’ needs and offer them value.”

It added that it was a low-margin, high volume business.

“Of every dollar spent in our stores, around 62 cents goes to our suppliers. We keep about 2.3 cents and the remainder goes to paying wages and other operational costs, and investing in our store network.”

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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/2026/03/25/we-tend-to-lurch-from-crises-to-crises-call-for-national-food-security-plan/

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Construction of $50 million New Plymouth sports hub to begin in May

Source: Radio New Zealand

A supplied AI-generated image of what the Tūparikino Hub is expected to look like. Supplied

A traditional symbol of connection will embrace visitors when they enter the arena at the $50 million Tūparikino Active Community Hub when it opens in New Plymouth racecourse in 2028.

With groundworks and design work done and the project on budget, the district council said, construction will begin in May.

The indoor arena will host sport, recreation and cultural activities, and feature six basketball or netball-sized courts that can be configured into 12 volleyball courts, 16 badminton or pickleball courts, or three futsal courts.

The façade design symbolises two interlocking hīnaki (woven eel nets), traditionally used by mana whenua to gather tuna (eels) from the nearby river.

Ngāti Tūparikino spokesperson Rita Rukuwai said it acknowledged the shared history of Ngāti Te Whiti and Ngāti Tūparikino, reflecting both the past and the future of the site as a place where communities came together.

“Tuna was a staple food source for Māori and represents the relationships woven over time between the two hapū, and the importance of their connection to the local landscape and waterways.

“We felt this represented not only the historical significance of this site, but also the connections that will continue to grow within the Tūparikino Hub. This place will see many different groups of people coming together for health, well-being and prosperity.”

New Plymouth firm Clelands Construction was awarded the construction contract for the indoor arena which would include an upper-level community space for local organisations and groups, a café, and event facilities.

Mayor Max Brough said the project was significant for the local economy.

Mayor Max Brough. LDR /Te Korimako o Taranaki

“This will support jobs for more than 20 local subcontractors and suppliers at a time when the construction industry is feeling the pinch, so the benefits of this building work will flow back into our community.”

Brough said the stadium had been designed as a flexible and accessible space that could support a wide range of activities, from grassroots recreation and school groups to cultural performances, regional tournaments and everyday community use.

Additional playing fields inside the racecourse would be developed as further funding became available.

Sport Taranaki chief executive, Michael Carr, said the Tūparikino Hub would have far-reaching benefits for the region’s sport, recreation and well-being.

“Tūparikino will be a place that inspires people to be active, to connect and to belong.

“It will bring together people from across codes, activities, ages and backgrounds. The benefits will extend well beyond sport. It’s about health, confidence and community spirit.”

At a glance:

  • The Tūparikino Hub will have a new indoor stadium and sports fields that could hold national sports tournaments and events such as kapa haka.
  • Cost $50m.
  • Groundworks started in late 2024
  • Opening early 2028.
  • An energy-efficient, low-maintenance building.
  • The hub will share the site with Taranaki Racing, which has a 33-year lease.

Follow progress on @tuparikinohub on Instagram or find out more at npdc.govt.nz/Tūparikino.

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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/2026/03/25/construction-of-50-million-new-plymouth-sports-hub-to-begin-in-may/

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Pike River Mine victims’ families fear proposed health and safety law changes risk another tragedy

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sonya Rockhouse (left) and Anna Osborne outside Parliament in 2025. RNZ / Anneke Smith

Families of those killed in the Pike River Mine disaster fear the government’s proposed health and safety law changes will remove worker protections and risk another tragedy.

Sonya Rockhouse, who lost her 21-year-old son Ben, and Anna Osborne, who lost her husband Milt, told the Education and Workforce Select Committee on Wednesday they wanted health and safety laws strengthened.

A methane-fuelled explosion ripped through the Pike River coal mine in the rugged Paparoa Range on the South Island’s West Coast on 19 November 2010, killing 29 workers.

The Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill was introduced to Parliament last month and the government said it was intended to reduce death and injury rates while also cutting compliance costs by focusing on the most serious critical risks and reducing confusion.

But critics said the changes could weaken worker protections and result in more workplace injuries.

Osborne said her husband’s death was preventable, it was not bad luck or an act of God.

“He was killed by a company that put its profit ahead of his life and the lives of 28 others, and that was allowed to happen by years of people, sitting in the same seats you are now, weakening the health and safety laws and regulations again and again,” she told the committee.

“This should never have happened and the travesty of justice that followed is a blight on New Zealand’s soul.”

‘This bill takes that away’

Workplace health and safety laws were strengthened in 2014 after the mining disaster, which had kept workplace deaths and injury rates at bay despite the population of the country growing larger, she said.

“People could be confident in speaking up and employers began to feel they needed to listen,” she said, of the 2014 changes.

But that was still not enough and Osborne and Rockhouse wanted to a corporate manslaughter charge introduced in New Zealand law.

“Milt always looked out for his people – he was a volunteer fireman, a local councillor – I have always thought that among all the bad that came from Pike he would have taken some heart in the fact his death helped keep others safe even just by a little bit,” Osborne said.

“This bill takes that away. It takes it away from every person at work in New Zealand and it takes it from the memory and the legacy of Milt and all the men he is lying with in that shithole of a mine.”

The pair made the submission on behalf of Stand With Pike outlining their concerns with the proposals in the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill.

Rockhouse said Ben was a intelligent, articulate, gentle boy who believed people were good.

“I don’t know what he would have made of how hard we’ve had to fight for truth that should have been ours by right. We should never have had to fight, protest and campaign for justice, accountability or truth,” she said.

“I don’t even know what to think of this right now, of the fact that we are having to come here again to tell people yet again about the consequences of taking people’s rights to health and safety from them.”

Osborne and Rockhouse met with Workplace Safety Minister Brooke van Velden at Parliament last November on the 15th anniversary of the disaster.

The minister, who admitted she had not read the Royal Commission’s report on the Pike River Coal Mine Tragedy, and did not support the introduction of a corporate manslaughter charge, instead preferred to focus on “upfront guidance” for businesses.

Rockhouse said everyone had the right to go to work in the morning and come home safely.

“It feels like the authors of this Bill have failed to learn from history, they have wilfully ignored it and it makes me sick and angry”, Rockhouse said.

“To wind back health and safety despite the price our men and us – their families – have paid, despite the fact that all of New Zealand has seen that cost? Shameful does not even begin to describe it.”

‘Absolute conflict of interest’

Green Party MP Ricardo Menéndez March asked the pair about their concerns with the law change.

Rockhouse said both her sons – Dan was one of just two survivors from the disaster – told her if they tried to raise issues around health and safety, no matter how big or small, they were told to “just shut the F up and get on with your job, basically that was the mentality”.

Several miners told her they had been worried about an explosion at the mine and the chief executive had said, “if you don’t like it there’s the door, leave, you’re not in Australia now”, she said.

“It’s very hard in that context to think the CEO would have identified the appropriate critical risks under the financial pressure they were under.”

Osborne said methane levels in the mine peaked over 19 times in the two weeks before the explosion.

“Those 19 times the men should have been out of the mine and, until that mine re-ventilated, they should not have been allowed to work but [Peter] Whittle and the managers there wanted production to happen,” she said.

“It was almost like they were playing a game of Russian roulette – production over safety.”

Stand With Pike advisor Rob Egan said the Bill assumed the workplace health and safety regulator could police and provide guidance and consultation to employers.

“That’s exactly what happened at Pike River … it is an absolute conflict of interest,” he said.

Earlier this year police said they were nearing the final stages of the criminal investigation into the disaster.

Detective superintendent Darryl Sweeney said the investigation was legally complex and police had been working with the Wellington crown solicitor for more than 18 months.

Further investigation was still needed and an update was likely to be several months away, he 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/2026/03/25/pike-river-mine-victims-families-fear-proposed-health-and-safety-law-changes-risk-another-tragedy/

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‘Staggering’: Diesel prices changing several times a week, always up – grape farmer

Source: Radio New Zealand

JTC Viticulture machinery in operation. Supplied

The rural sector says it is being challenged by soaring diesel prices, the likes of which one operator says it has never seen before.

JTC Viticulture in Marlborough is partway through a busy grape harvest, with 14 harvesting machines and 28 tractors running 24 hours a day.

“We have about 90 people to run that operation,” managing director Jason Tripe said. “Our diesel price has increased sort of 90 percent over the last two-and-a-half weeks, pretty much.”

Tripe said the company was used to fluctuating fuel prices, but nothing like this.

“Fuel is a large part of our cost, and the biggest challenge about this has been the short nature, it’s happened so quickly.

“And we’ve quoted or priced work based on a known number and fuel has been part of that, we’ve been seriously impacted by that because of the speed it’s gone up.”

Tripe said the immediate impact had been “incredible”.

JTC Viticulture machinery in operation. Supplied

“So it’s been pretty difficult to manage that, our clients have been very open to discussions about it but they’re under pressure as well because our industry is facing a few headwinds at the moment and our returns are down, so this is just another hit to us basically.”

He said clients were being asked to consider paying more, but it was a double-edged sword given the challenges they were facing themselves.

“But our clients for the main part have been understanding, and we’ve sort of soaked up what we can and we’ve sort of met in the middle.”

Asked if he had seen anything like the surge in diesel pricing before, Tripe said “nothing even comes close” in the time the company had been operating.

“It’s staggering, really.”

Tripe said every load of diesel being delivered was a different price and going up several times a week.

The sooner harvesting was complete the better, he said, and added his supplier had already said diesel supplies were getting tight.

“We’re dealing with the increased costs, but in the background is concern about supply. We’re using large volumes daily, and if we can’t get that fuel delivered then machines will come to a halt.

“We’re just hoping we get the harvest completed before things really start to bite from a supply issue, not to mention the cost.”

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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/2026/03/25/staggering-diesel-prices-changing-several-times-a-week-always-up-grape-farmer/

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Married at First Sight expert Mel Schilling remembered as ‘amazing’ and ‘radiant’ after bowel cancer death

Source: Radio New Zealand

Mel Schilling emerged as one of Australia’s most recognisable relationship experts on Australian (and New Zealand) television.

On Tuesday, she died of bowel cancer at the age of 54.

As a judge on the hit reality show Married At First Sight Australia (MAFS), she was known for her sharp insight and a lack of tolerance for poor behaviour.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/married-at-first-sight-expert-mel-schilling-remembered-as-amazing-and-radiant-after-bowel-cancer-death/

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Man from religious organisation charged with rape keeps identity suppressed for now

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man appeared via audio-visual link in the Chrirstchurch District Court. (File photo) RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A man linked to a religious organisation who is facing charges including rape and strangulation will keep his name secret for now.

The 45-year-old was granted interim name suppression when he appeared via audio-visual link in the Christchurch District Court on Wednesday.

The court heard 14 charges, including unlawful sexual connection, indecent assault, strangulation and rape, had been laid against him.

They related to four complainants, but the court heard other complainants had also now come forward.

The church the man was connected to had a presence in several south Pacific countries.

The man was remanded in custody without plea and would reappear next month.

Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie said, on Tuesday, the man’s arrest followed several allegations.

“It is possible there may be other allegations that we are not yet aware of and I strongly encourage any survivor to speak with us,” Baillie said.

“Your voice matters, and you will be treated with respect. Our staff who work in this space are specially trained and any reports will be made in confidence and we will provide wraparound support.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 105 or use the online service referencing Operation Aurora or file number 260319/8197.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/man-from-religious-organisation-charged-with-rape-keeps-identity-suppressed-for-now/

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Fire at wreckers yard in Upper Hutt extinguished, roads remain closed

Source: Radio New Zealand

A car wreckers is on fire in Upper Hutt. Wellington Fire and Emergency

Firefighters have extinguished a blaze at a wreckers yard in Upper Hutt, but will still be there for some time.

Shift manager Murray Dunbar said they were called to the scene on Goodshed Road at 1.30pm, and at its peak, there were 13 trucks in attendance.

He said the fire was largely extinguished and the crews were moving into the mop up phase, dampening hotspots that might still be smouldering.

Fire and Emergency said crews would be on the scene for a while, assessing the burnt area inside the wreckers.

Dunbar said electric and petrol vehicles were at the yard.

Emergency services said there was traffic congestion in the area and was asking people to avoid the streets surrounding the incident.

Goodshed Road, Blenheim Street and Seddon Street were still closed

Meanwhile, a local nearby said the air was filled with thick black smoke combined with the sound of bangs and pops as bits exploded in the heat in the fire at the wreckers yard.

The witness said everyone was standing on Blenheim Road while Goodshed Road was evacuated.

He said it appeared the fire was mostly out now and crews were packing up.

The local said there was some traffic build up in the area as a result of the road closures.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/fire-at-wreckers-yard-in-upper-hutt-extinguished-roads-remain-closed/

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Fears for NZ children in ‘harsh’ immigration crackdown

Source: Radio New Zealand

Axing humanitarian appeal rights for temporary visa holders will potentially harm children caught in the crosshairs, legal experts say. RNZ

Alarm bells are sounding about harsh reductions in appeal rights for migrants which could lead to families being separated by deportation.

Overseas right-wing sentiment, reporting of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) crackdowns in the US and fears about domestic migration could be factors driving policy change, says a top immigration and refugee lawyer.

Legal experts say strict rules already exist for migrants seeking to overturn deportations, and they fear that axing humanitarian appeal rights for temporary visa holders will potentially harm children caught in the crosshairs.

Law Society Immigration and Refugee Committee convener Simon Graham Supplied

Law Society Immigration and Refugee Committee convener Simon Graham said current policy balanced individual rights and the public interest, but the proposed legislation would shift the goalposts against vulnerable people, especially children and families.

“You could have a child born here, only ever gone through the New Zealand educational system, seven, eight years of age, all the formative years, and then that child is now being asked to return back to a country, [with] language barriers, different educational system, whatever that might be.

“When a child is into that seven, eight-year period, a fundamental shift occurs. Generally speaking, child psychologists will say this is going to cause or this has the potential to cause a problem for this child. And these are the types of things that currently the system looks at and weighs up in the balancing exercise. But if that’s removed, who’s going to consider this issue or weigh it up?”

Concerns were widespread in the legal community, he added, and he was worried other governments’ policies could be creeping into New Zealand’s thinking.

“I do wonder, stepping back from it all, whether there is some overseas influence as we see in other jurisdictions. It’s a sort of hardening line in a lot of these areas, probably for good reason, in certain European countries and America, where there’s this excess and it’s causing problems, whereas I think New Zealand is different from that. I don’t think we have the same tensions – but possibly our policy choices are now potentially mirroring or lining up with some of these overseas jurisdictions.”

ICE agents depart the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building on February 4, 2026 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. AFP / John Moore

Deadline over appeals

The Immigration and Protection Tribunal (IPT) – which hears appeals against deportation, as well as residence and asylum application refusals – has seen a large increase in cases, as migration numbers have risen. In terms of deportation appeals among temporary migrants, its latest annual report shows 188 people lost and 174 won their cases.

Graham said a 42-day deadline already limited who could appeal, and the tribunal weighed up humanitarian circumstances against public interest concerns.

Under the Immigration (Enhanced Risk Management) Amendment Bill, migrants classed as visitors – which can include renewable partner and parent visas – would not be able to appeal on humanitarian grounds to the IPT at all.

“From a legal perspective, I think it’s unnecessarily harsh and unnecessary because there’s already systems in place to weigh the balance. This seems to be shifting the balance unnecessarily in one direction without any real justification for it. So it’s certainly harsh and it could potentially create very harsh and unfair outcomes in a certain percentage of cases.

“What parameters or safety nets are going to be put in place to substitute for the Immigration and Protection Tribunal process? Has that been thought about? And if it has, what is that process and who oversees it?”

The ‘Mama Hooch’ clause

Another proposal would extend the ability to deport people from 10 years after they become residents, to 20 years. Non-residents, such as temporary workers and students, would lose their chance to appeal deportation if they committed a crime.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford last week said New Zealand had “one of the most lenient criminal deportation liability regimes” compared to Australia, the UK, Canada, and Ireland, saying those countries all made residents liable for deportation indefinitely, including for relatively minor convictions.

She cited the notorious sex offending ring in Christchurch operated by rapist brothers Danny and Roberto Jaz who have been in New Zealand too long to be deported, under current laws.

Graham said that framing did not acknowledge the new law would strip appeal rights from less serious offenders, or who had immigration question marks.

“I noticed the minister made reference to the Mama Hooch guys as a general sort of overlay as to justify some of these changes to the policy, and being not able to deport these guys for serious criminal offending,” he said. “And that’s a legitimate question and consideration, I understand that. But I believe that the proposals also incorporate all the other reasons which would trigger deportation liability, which encapsulates for example, providing misleading information to immigration as part of a visa process.”

Auckland University’s Centre for Asia Pacific Refugee Studies co-director, Professor Jay Marlowe, worried discussion about the bill and amendments also blurred important distinctions between migrants, asylum seekers and refugees.

Professor Jay Marlowe University of Auckland

The Jaz brothers are the children of Australian migrants, and arrived about 25 years ago as teenagers.

“I would be cautious about how the Mama Hooch case is being used in this context. It was an extremely serious case, but one that involved harm occurring over time within New Zealand, and raises serious concerns about how institutions responded to women’s complaints. Linking that case directly to asylum policy risks conflating different issues and shifts attention away from the need to address those underlying failures.

“Extending deportation liability to 20 years means we may be dealing with people who arrived as children and have grown up here, raising questions about responsibility and belonging. There are parallels with Australia’s section 501 deportations, which New Zealand has criticised – and it raises a fundamental question about whether we are managing harm here, or shifting responsibility elsewhere.”

Stanford has been approached for comment.

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

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Live: 36-hour heavy rain warnings begin in Northland

Source: Radio New Zealand

Rain has set in across Northland ahead of a major deluge expected – though so far it’s steady rather than torrential.

Northland Regional Council data shows rain everywhere but the southern half of the Kaipara District.

  • What’s the weather looking like at your place? Email us iwitness@rnz.co.nz

The MetService red heavy rain warning applies to the entire east coast from Doubtless Bay to Whangārei, from 4pm Wednesday afternoon until 4am on Friday. The rest of Northland is under an orange heavy rain warning.

Whangārei District Council is urging some people to leave their homes today.

Up to 320mm of rain is forecast, with downpours of 20-40mm/hr possible.

Northland Civil Defence expects the worst of the rain to hit the northeast coast on Thursday night.

A number of other watches and warnings are in place across the country in what MetService is calling an “impactful” weather event.

Heavy rain, potentially bringing dangerous river conditions, flooding and slips, could pose a threat to life, MetService has warned.

Residents are urged not to enter floodwaters, avoid travel, and evacuate quickly if you see rising water.

Follow the latest updates in our live blog above.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/live-36-hour-heavy-rain-warnings-begin-in-northland/

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A F Thomas Park: Future recreational use announced by local board

Source: Auckland Council

The future parks and recreation outcomes for inclusion in A F Thomas Park in Wairau Valley have been decided.

Today, the Kaipātiki Local Board voted for space in the park to be used for a mix of golf, sports fields and space to enable indoor sports and events, including:

  • The provision of a golf offering that is affordable, accessible and commercially sustainable with an allocation of a minimum of 18 hectares, excluding car parking and buffer zones
  • Space to enable indoor sports events
  • A minimum of two full-size sports fields
  • Safe pedestrian and cycling connections both north/south and east/west
  • Other parks and recreation service outcomes such as children’s play, exercise and fitness equipment, youth recreation, dog walking and other sports offerings
  • The continued presence of Shore Archery Club and Sunnybrae Bowling Club in the wider park catchment.

Danielle Grant, Chair of the Kaipātaki Local board, says the decision is a win for the local community.

“This has been a significant and once-in-a-generation decision for Kaipātiki. Local board members have invested many hours reviewing information, attending site visits, engaging with the community and listening to a wide range of views.

“This has been a complex and at times contentious issue, and we have worked respectfully through those differences to reach this point. We understand the importance of getting this right.

“We have adopted high-level priorities that reflect future sport, recreation and environmental needs for our community. This includes planning infrastructure carefully so that when work is carried out, it can be done efficiently and avoid the need for repeated disruption in the future.”

“The next step is developing a masterplan to work through how the priorities decided today can best be delivered on the site.

“We would also like to acknowledge and thank council staff, stakeholders and community members for their time, expertise and commitment throughout this process.”

In late 2025, the Kaipātiki Local Board ran five weeks of public consultation to hear from the community what recreational activities they would like A F Thomas Park to be used for into the future.

Following public submissions, a consultation report, deliberative forum report and several technical reports were presented to the Kaipātiki Local Board in early 2026 to support their decision-making.

Today’s decision on recreational use for the park sits within a larger plan to mitigate the risk of flooding in the area.

Taryn Crewe, General Manager of Parks and Community Facilities says the decision will give the local community new opportunities to connect and be active.

“The local board’s decision is the first step for keeping golf at the park and planning and implementing new space for a range of park, sport and recreation offerings for locals and Aucklanders to use and enjoy.

“The board prioritised a list of parks and recreation outcomes to be achieved. The council will work with them to deliver as many of these outcomes as possible.

“Once complete, A F Thomas Park will be an even more valuable asset for the community.”

Auckland Council will restore part of A F Thomas Park to flood storage wetland and dry water detention areas, while keeping the green space available to all Aucklanders to use when the park is not flooded.

Once completed, this comprehensive flood resilience (blue-green) network will significantly reduce flood risks across the Wairau catchment. 

This decision sets strategic direction for future development and allows the Ngā Wairau Flood Resilience project to move forward in a timely manner.

Craig Mcilroy, General Manager for Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience says it is crucial that progress with the transformation of A F Thomas Park continues to maintain momentum as there is a clear desire from the community to move swiftly to reduce flood risk to nearby areas. 

“This project aims to significantly reduce downstream flood flows through Wairau Creek, and reduce flood risk to over 150 homes and three residential care homes in Milford. It will also protect critical infrastructure and access to key facilities such as North Shore Hospital and Westlake Boys’ and Girls’ High Schools, as well as Eventfinda Stadium.

“The work in A F Thomas Park is a critical first step to reduce the significant flood risk across the Wairau catchment and will enable wider flood resilience works in and around Nile Road, and the commercial areas of Wairau Valley.” 

It is important to note the elements that remain out of the scope of today’s decision, these include stormwater infrastructure requirements, details around location and design and funding sources. Today’s decision only sought to define the future park and recreation outcomes for inclusion in the park.

Next steps 

The local board’s decision today (25 March) establishes what should be provided for at A F Thomas Park. How and when it gets delivered will be determined through subsequent processes.

Following today’s decision work will begin to develop a detailed master plan for the park, that will include detailed designs and leasing arrangements.

Because this project was made necessary by urgent flood resilience needs, there is no dedicated council funding set aside for major new recreational facilities beyond the wetland and detention basin.

To deliver the new recreational infrastructure at the park there is a need to plan for funding through future budgets or explore alternative funding options. Delivery is likely to be staged over time as funding becomes available.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/25/a-f-thomas-park-future-recreational-use-announced-by-local-board/

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Auckland’s annual plan – give your feedback by this Sunday

Source: Auckland Council

Aucklanders have until this Sunday (29 March) to provide their feedback on Auckland Council’s plan for the year ahead.

Public feedback on Auckland Council’s Annual Plan 2026/2027 closes 11.59pm this Sunday (29 March 2026). Aucklanders are encouraged to visit the AK Have Your Say website to see what the council has planned for Auckland from July.

Councillor Greg Sayers encourages Aucklanders to check out the plan and take a few minutes to pass on some feedback.

“This is one of the best opportunities to help elected representatives with decision-making – we want to hear what Aucklanders think about the plan for next year and what’s front of mind, for them,” says Cr Sayers.

The annual plan sets out the council’s services, activities and spend for the year ahead.

Supporting information

What’s in the plan?

The City Rail Link (CRL) launch is a major highlight expected to be the centrepiece of significant improvements in transport connectivity, capacity and levels of service across Auckland’s integrated transport system. It will improve Aucklanders’ ability to move around the region by delivering more trains and quicker, easier journeys.

– The 2026/2027 plan prioritises transport, water and local boards responding to their local communities’ needs.

– $3.9 billion will be invested into vital infrastructure across Auckland.

– $5.3 billion dedicated to essential services, like pools, libraries, animal management, public transport and waste collection.

– A proposed overall rates increase of 7.9 per cent (for the average value residential property), as previously agreed in the Long-term Plan 2024-2034.

–  All of Auckland’s 21 local board plans for the coming year – this includes priorities for local communities and key services.- The region’s long-term future is also up for input – to inform on transport planning, water service strategies and the Long-term Plan 2027-2037.

– A proposed overall rates increase of 7.9 per cent (for the average value residential property), as previously agreed in the Long-term Plan 2024-2034.

All of Auckland’s 21 local board plans for the coming year – this includes priorities for local communities and key services.

The region’s long-term future is also up for input – to inform on transport planning, water service strategies and the Long-term Plan 2027-2037.

 

We want to know what Aucklanders think about the plan – visit the AK Have Your Say website now.

Consultation closes Sunday 29 March 2026.

Supporting Aucklanders to have their say 

There is increased flexibility and accessibility in how Aucklanders can give feedback.

Alongside translations into NZSL, Easy Read, large print and braille, there are more ways for people to have their say.

AK Have Your say
Auckland Council
Freepost Authority 182382
Private Bag 92300
Auckland 1142.

Visit the AK Have Your Say website for more information.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/25/aucklands-annual-plan-give-your-feedback-by-this-sunday/

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NRL: NZ Warriors still hope to retain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck with contract extension

Source: Radio New Zealand

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is off contract with the Warriors at the end of this season. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

NZ Warriors coach Andrew Webster hasn’t completely given up hope of retaining superstar Roger Tuivasa-Sheck beyond this season.

The veteran wing’s future at the club has been up in the air since last year, when he was linked to the breakaway R360 union competition, which has been delayed until 2028.

NRL players have been threatened with a 10-year ban if they sign with the Saudi-backed rebel outfit, so very few have declared their intentions.

Former All Black Tuivasa-Sheck’s current contract with the Warriors ends this season, so he has been the subject of intense interest over his immediate prospects.

Two weeks ago, he was reportedly exploring options with Sydney NRL clubs. Latest rumours have him heading to the English Super League with Wakefield Trinity.

Webster was loathe to fuel the speculation, but hinted Tuivasa-Sheck’s departure was not quite a done deal.

“I’ve had plenty of conversations,” he acknowledged. “Whichever way it goes, whether he stays or wherever he ends up, if he plays union or plays league… if he leaves, he goes with our blessing and if there’s an opportunity for him at the end of the season to stay, we’d celebrate that too.

“It will all become clearer, but we’ve had really good conversation and we’re on the same page, which is always a good feeling between a player and a coach.”

Webster had previously said he hoped Tuivasa-Sheck never left the club.

Last month, Tuivasa-Sheck, 32, played questions about his future with a straight bat.

“My head is still down in the trenches for the pre-season,” he said during the Warriors pre-season. “Just trying to turn up each day, each week for the grind, because everyone is so fast and I have to keep up.

“Future stuff I will get to at some stage, but I’m always putting my actions on the field and do my talking from there.”

Roger Tuivasa-Sheck heads for the corner against Sydney Roosters. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

Conjecture ramped up this month, when Aussie media reported the Warriors were close to signing former All Blacks Sevens star and Melbourne Storm wing Will Warbrick.

At the time, Webster warned not to believe everything you hear on the rumour mill.

“A lot of the time, we’re linked to players that we’re not even close to signing or I get a text message from someone saying, ‘I heard so-and-so is starting tonight’, but no, they’re not.

“I don’t know where it comes from, but sometimes where there’s smoke, there’s fire and sometimes they’re just miles off. Sometimes they’re just trying to pump up the price.”

On Wednesday, he had no update on that situation.

Tuivasa-Sheck is still the only Warrior to win the Dally M Medal as the NRL’s Player of the Year in 2018 and won his fourth Simon Mannering Medal as the club’s Most Valuable Player last year.

The Warriors have several other players off contract beyond 2026, including Origin star Kurt Capewell and veteran second-rower Marata Niukore, who has been linked to Newcastle Knights in recent weeks.

“I haven’t read too much into it, to be honest,” Niukore grinned. “It’s pretty clichéd, but that stuff will sort itself and, over time, I’m pretty sure we’ll knock it on the head and hopefully that’s it.”

He had “no idea” when an official announcement might be forthcoming.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/nrl-nz-warriors-still-hope-to-retain-roger-tuivasa-sheck-with-contract-extension/

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Anyone worried about looming Northland storm should act early, Whangārei Council urges

Source: Radio New Zealand

Flooding around Ngunguru Road, east of Whangārei in January this year. RNZ / Susan Edmunds

Whangārei District Council is advising anyone who doesn’t feel safe ahead of more heavy rain in the region to leave their homes now, before the red weather warning kicks in.

MetService has upgraded its rain warning to red for areas east of Kaikohe, from Doubtless Bay down to Whangārei.

In those areas up to 320mm of rain was possible over a 36-hour period starting at 4pm on Wednesday.

Posting on its Facebook page, the council said it was monitoring the situation alongside Civil Defence.

“People whose homes were impacted by flooding and land slips in the January weather event, who don’t feel safe, are advised to leave today to a safe location either with family and friends or to a local marae.

We are advising people to leave today, ideally during daylight hours,” the post said.

An orange heavy rain warning remained in place for the rest of Northland, as did an orange strong wind warning.

Northland Civil Defence said the red heavy rain warning – the highest level possible – is a sign people need to prepare for what’s to come during the next few days.

“Keeping in mind those red warnings are really only issued for the most severe weather events, that really does signal this is one to be taken seriously,” spokesperson Zach Woods said.

Woods said Northlanders might not experience warning levels of rain straight away.

“This is expected to be a long duration event with heavy rain and strong winds continuing over several days. MetService expects the rainfall to intensify over time and reach some quite significant levels as the system develops,” he said.

“The main period of concern at this stage is that Thursday afternoon through to Friday morning, when we could see some very heavy downpours on top of all the rain that’s already fallen, particularly around the east coast of the Far North.”

Woods said that created potential for “really dangerous river conditions” as well as possible floods, slips, landslides, and hazardous driving conditions.

“Of course we could see road closures, and some power outages due to the strong winds as well.”

Woods said it remained “an evolving situation” so he urged Northlanders to stay up to date with the latest forecasts as well as advice from MetService and their local councils.

A big swell pounds the Paihia shoreline during a previous storm. Peter de Graaf

Locals brace for a wild few days

Anthony “Vinnie” Pivac, the owner of Zane Grey’s Restaurant on the Paihia waterfront, said the predicted 50 knot easterly gusts could be damaging – but it was the sea he was keeping a close eye on.

When Cyclone Gabrielle caused $100,000 worth of damage and lost contracts in 2023, that came down to a combination of strong winds and a 7-metre swell.

So far the swell was forecast to reach just 2.5m, he said.

“If it had swell behind this easterly then I would be panicking, but it’s not going to be too bad. On the flip side of things, we’re just going to have today and tomorrow of horrendous rain and no customers,” he said.

“But for now we’re sitting cosy. I’m going to sit here, have a few beers and see what happens on either side of the tide.”

However, Pivac said he would keep monitoring the forecast and was not taking anything for granted.

“Mate, we’re in New Zealand, so the weather changes every five minutes.”

File pic RNZ / Sam Olley

Any time the swell reached 4m he removed parts of the decking around the restaurant to reduce the impact of the waves, but that was not necessary at this point.

Pivac said the most damaging winds for Paihia were northeasterlies. Easterly winds were bad if they coincided with big swells.

“Anything from the north, it’s hold onto your britches,” he said.

The next high tides were due in the Bay of Islands around 1.20pm on Wednesday and 2am and 2.20pm on Thursday.

Heavy seas pound Paihia wharf during Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

Power cuts a concern

Meanwhile, Richard Holt, the owner of Cellini’s Ice Cream and Espresso Bar on nearby Williams Road, said power cuts caused by wild weather were the biggest threat to his business.

He had invested in a bunker freezer to keep ice cream cold in the event of a serious power outage – but if it lasted more than eight or nine hours, he would still lose his stock.

Holt said he did not expect to sell many ice creams in Paihia today but there had been plenty of demand for coffee this morning.

Further down the east coast in Ōakura, in the Whangārei District, residents still recovering from the devastating January storm are preparing for more rain.

That deluge swept through multiple homes and baches, triggered landslides, and severely damaged the newly renovated Ōakura Community Hall.

The Whangārei District Council had planned to hold a public meeting on Thursday afternoon to update locals on storm recovery efforts.

That meeting had now been postponed until 6pm on Tuesday at the Ōakura Sports Complex.

The main road from Ōakura south to Whangārei remained closed due to a massive slip at Helena Bay Hill, and eight homes and buildings were still red-stickered, meaning they were too dangerous to enter.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/anyone-worried-about-looming-northland-storm-should-act-early-whangarei-council-urges/

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Live: Rain begins ahead of red warning for Northland, severe weather for upper North Island

Source: Radio New Zealand

Rain has set in across Northland ahead of a major deluge expected to start later this afternoon – though so far it’s steady rather than torrential.

Northland Regional Council data shows rain everywhere but the southern half of the Kaipara District.

The wettest place so far is Weta, on the east coast near Whangaroa, which has recorded almost 12mm in the past hour.

  • What’s the weather looking like at your place? Email us iwitness@rnz.co.nz

The MetService red heavy rain warning applies to the entire east coast from Doubtless Bay to Whangārei, from 4pm Wednesday afternoon until 4am on Friday.

Up to 320mm of rain is forecast, with downpours of 20-40mm/hr possible.

Northland Civil Defence expects the worst of the rain to hit the northeast coast on Thursday night.

A number of other watches and warnings are in place across the country in what MetService is calling an “impactful” weather event.

Heavy rain, potentially bringing dangerous river conditions, flooding and slips, could pose a threat to life, MetService has warned.

Residents are urged not to enter floodwaters, avoid travel, and evacuate quickly if you see rising water.

Follow the latest updates in our live blog above.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/live-rain-begins-ahead-of-red-warning-for-northland-severe-weather-for-upper-north-island/

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Rotten to the core – ‘ocean exploitation bill’ must be rejected, says Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace says the coalition government’s removal of one item in NZ First’s ‘ocean exploitation bill’ is not enough to satisfy public outcry, with the organisation calling for the bill to be rejected in its entirety.
On Wednesday PM Christopher Luxon announced that after listening to concerns about the Fisheries Amendment Bill, sections that scrapped minimum fish size requirements for commercial operators will be removed. Greenpeace says no one is fooled by this small concession.
Oceans lead Ellie Hooper says: “All the Prime Minister and coalition partners have done is remove one aspect of this bonfire of a bill. But the scales have fallen from everyone’s eyes on this.
“The bill, even with the size requirements removed, remains a hand out to the commercial fishing industry, who Jones advocates for. It incentivises the worst types of fishing – unselective bottom trawling – the impacts of which are being felt increasingly by all. “It’s clear the ocean is depleted and it’s harder to go out and catch a fish. We’ve got crashed populations, and ocean habitats are struggling. Incentivising trawling, which destroys the ocean and takes too many fish out of the sea, is not going to fly with the New Zealand public.”The bill contains proposals to limit public consultation on fisheries decisions and blocks public access to the footage from cameras on boats. Anyone who shares or publishes this footage could face a fine of up to $50,000.Hooper points out that without public access to cameras on boats footage, mistrust in the commercial fishing industry will only continue to grow. “New Zealanders have a right to know how the fishing industry is impacting ocean health. What should be abundantly clear to the Prime Minister and all the politicians in an election year is that the public cares deeply about what happens out at sea. And there are more of them in the voting population than commercial fishing bosses.
“A transparent industry that boasts their world-leading fisheries management, wouldn’t need these cover ups,” says Hooper. “It just looks like they’re trying to hide the plain facts of their activities, from hauling up coral to killing fur seals and dolphins as bycatch.”
In a statement on social media today, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon wrote he wanted to ensure “our kids and grandkids have abundant fisheries for the decades to come”.
“If the Prime Minister stands by this statement, then the amendment bill has got to go.” says Hooper. “Not to select committee, not for tiny tweaks – but be voted down by politicians with a backbone who want to actually represent the vast numbers of New Zealanders opposing it.
“The coalition government may have collective amnesia on this bill but the ocean community doesn’t. The amendments have been, and continue to be rejected – that includes proposals to lock up cameras on boats, incentivise trawling, and erode the public’s right to have a say. The fish bone they’ve thrown us is nowhere near enough.”

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/rotten-to-the-core-ocean-exploitation-bill-must-be-rejected-says-greenpeace/

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Investments – Upcoming Minimum Wage and KiwiSaver Changes – Effective 1 April 2026

Source: Peninsula New Zealand

Auckland, 25 March 2026: New minimum wage rates and KiwiSaver contribution changes will take effect across New Zealand from 1 April 2026, impacting employers, employees, and payroll processes nationwide.

Minimum Wage Increases

From 1 April, the Government has confirmed the following rates:

Adult Minimum Wage: $23.95 per hour
Starting‑Out Wage: $19.16 per hour
Training Wage: $19.16 per hour

These apply to all employees aged 16+, including part‑time, casual, fixed‑term, and remote workers. Minimum wage rules also extend to workers’ earning commissions or piece rates.

Training wage eligibility: Employees aged 20+ completing 60 credits annually toward an approved industry qualification.
Starting‑out eligibility: Workers aged 16 – 19 who meet criteria such as being new to employment or undertaking relevant training.

KiwiSaver Changes

Also from 1 April:

Default contribution rate increases from 3% to 3.5% (first stage of a phased rise to 4% in 2028).
Employees may opt down to 3%, but contributions reset to the default after 12 months.
16‑ and 17‑year‑olds who opt for KiwiSaver will now receive compulsory employer contributions.

Ashlea Maley, Associate Director – Operations, Peninsula New Zealand, said: “The current economic climate is placing significant pressure on small businesses, with many facing rising payroll obligations at a time when operating conditions are already tough. We’re seeing a noticeable increase in employers seeking guidance, as the cost of getting things wrong – particularly around unfair dismissal and wage compliance – continues to rise.

“As wage theft has become a criminal offence, unintentional underpayments have much more dire consequences for small businesses now. We urge business owners to take this opportunity and review their internal systems and processes. With new regulations coming into effect, employers need to act cautiously, stay informed, and make sure every part of their operation is compliant.”

What Employers Need to Do

Employers are encouraged to:

  • Update payroll systems for new wage and KiwiSaver settings
  • Review employment agreements
  • Communicate changes to staff, particularly young workers and trainees
  • Ensure minimum wage increases are applied from the first full pay period after 1 April.

Non‑compliance may lead to arrears, penalties, or disputes.

Ashlea added that the pressure is intensifying as the end of the financial year approaches: “This EOFY period is proving to be one of the toughest we’ve seen in recent years. Businesses are making hard calls – letting staff go, restructuring, or in some cases closing their doors altogether. We’re supporting a growing number of employers navigating redundancies brought on by uncertainty and escalating costs.

“The message to business owners is clear: in this climate, compliance isn’t optional. It’s essential to protect your people, your operations, and the long‑term viability of your business.”

About Peninsula Australia
Peninsula is New Zealand and Australia’s leading workplace advisory firm for SMEs, advising more than 30,500 clients in New Zealand and Australia on workplace relations and workplace health & safety issues. Its advice line allows businesses to speak with its team of workplace relations specialists, and through onsite visits to their business.  

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/investments-upcoming-minimum-wage-and-kiwisaver-changes-effective-1-april-2026/

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Energy – Re-Energise 26 highlights opportunity for energy sector workforce to secure New Zealand’s energy future

Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa

Wellington, New Zealand – New modelling released today in Re-Energise 26 shows New Zealand should grow its energy workforce, and grow it quickly, to deliver electrification and build a secure, resilient energy system.

Produced jointly by Energy Resources Aotearoa and the Electricity Engineers’ Association (EEA), Re-Energise 26 is the first report to map workforce needs across the full energy sector. The comprehensive data set was built using top-down and bottom-up inputs from government and energy sector sources and covers a workforce of over 13,800 full-time equivalent energy sector employees and more than 4,000 contractors and consultants.

The modelling identifies pressure points in critical roles, with major bottlenecks in supervision, mentoring and assessment. It shows that without more skilled people, New Zealand will struggle to electrify, cut emissions and maintain a secure, resilient energy system.

It calls for coordinated action across the sector to lift career visibility, strengthen training pathways and build a more diverse and highly skilled workforce.

“Technology alone will not deliver New Zealand’s energy future,” says Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie.

“Timing is critical for regions experiencing declining industries, where skilled workers are being displaced and risk being lost before new energy projects and opportunities come online.

It will take skilled people with the capacity to design, run and improve the system. If we want a more secure, lower-emissions energy future, our country needs to invest in the workforce that will make it happen.”

EEA Chief Executive Nicki Sutherland says energy security and reliability depend on experienced people and a strong pipeline of new talent.

“We need to think about investment in people as seriously as we do infrastructure to create the depth needed on our bench to achieve New Zealand’s secure energy future. And we need to be equipping our workforce with the right skills for a world that will be fundamentally different.”

Re-Energise 26 sets out an Industry Skills Action Plan built around four priorities: Attract, Develop, Collaborate and Retain.

To drive delivery, a Workforce Summit will be convened in May 2026, bringing energy sector organisations together to set priorities and assign delivery leads.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/25/energy-re-energise-26-highlights-opportunity-for-energy-sector-workforce-to-secure-new-zealands-energy-future/