Category: Health

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Prisoner with burst appendix not taken to hospital for six days

Source: Radio New Zealand

The prisoner was seen by multiple nurses in the six days she was ill before being taken to hospital, but most basic clinical observations were not recorded in that time. (File photo) RNZ/ Finn Blackwell

A prisoner with a burst appendix was told it was a stomach bug, and waited six days to be admitted to hospital for surgery.

The Health and Disability Commissioner said multiple registered nurses saw the woman, but their clinical impression was that of a viral infection.

On her admission to hospital on 5 July, 2022, she was diagnosed with a burst appendix, and the next day she underwent an operation to remove her appendix, drain a pelvic abscess, and remove a section of her large intestine.

Her symptoms were first flagged after a standard morning medication round, when two nurses noted that the woman, who the report calls Ms A, had been vomiting for the past three days and unable to keep food down.

Ms A told the commissioner investigating her case that a nurse told her it was a stomach bug, and when her symptoms persisted at the next appointment, she was told to “ride it out”.

The prison has denied clinical staff said this. It explained the woman’s treatment was focused on managing nausea and vomiting, and maintaining hydration, as nurse assessments indicated a viral illness and an absence of any red flag symptoms.

The woman was seen by multiple nurses during the next six days for nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, but there was no record of observations like temperature, blood pressure, or pulse, no abdominal examinations, and no description of bowel movements taken at these assessments.

There was also no evidence her fluids were monitored, despite the vomiting, and no clear record of the effect of pain medication provided.

She was eventually referred to the local hospital by a medical officer, following blood tests on 5 July.

She spent nine days in hospital, and was discharged on 14 July. She complained to the Health and Disability Commissioner the following month, on 22 August.

Commissioner Vanessa Caldwell found the Department of Corrections had breached the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights by failing to provide appropriate care to Ms A, and to escalate her care in light of her symptoms and multiple presentations.

Department of Corrections accepts the care was below standard, blames staff shortages and high turnover

According to the HDC report, the Department of Corrections accepted the nursing assessments and documentation did not meet professional standards – or the department’s own expectations.

However, it explained its health team was experiencing high volumes of staff vacancies, staff turnover, and unplanned absences at the time of these events.

The prison, which is not named in the report, also had no permanent health centre manager nor access to a clinical quality assurance advisor at the

time, it said.

Ms A said she was in a vulnerable and dependent state, and the clinical staff did not do enough to escalate her care. She said the consequences of these events have greatly affected her, and she has since undergone a second surgery.

Changes since the incident

The prison told HDC the following changes had been made since the incident:

Commissioner also recommends a written apology

The commissioner said the prison should write an apology to Ms A, to be sent to HDC within three weeks for forwarding.

When Corrections was approached for further comment, Juanita Ryan, deputy chief executive Pae Ora, said she would like to reiterate the department’s apologies to Ms A.

“The medical care Ms A received fell short of what is rightly expected of us. It is critical that while someone is in our custody, we support and improve their health, ensure their physical safety, and treat them with dignity and respect. In this instance we did not provide adequate healthcare for Ms A and for this we are truly sorry. We have apologised to Ms A directly.”

She said they had done or were on track with a number of other recommendations made by the commissioner – including providing copies of relevant guidance documents and audit findings.

Corrections now also required evidence that all staff at the prison had completed the Graduate Certificate in Nursing: Rural Assessment of the Deteriorating Patient at Ara Institute of Canterbury, she said, and a new online training module on pain management was on track to be completed by the end of March.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/prisoner-with-burst-appendix-not-taken-to-hospital-for-six-days/

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Universities – Yili-Lincoln University research collaboration informs global health policy

Source: Yili

Riddet Institute Fellow Laureate Paul Moughan has led a research collaboration with Yili’s Innovation Centre in New Zealand which will help shape World Health Organisation policy on infant nutrition.

Distinguished Professor Moughan, who chaired the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations’ expert consultation which published guidelines on protein quality for humans in 2013, has been working closely with global experts in a joint research effort co-ordinated by the Yili Innovation Centre Oceania (YICO) at Lincoln University.

In a series of papers published in the Journal of Nutrition (2023), Frontiers in Nutrition (2024) and the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry (2025), the work of Professor Moughan and his team has led to breakthrough research that provides a better understanding and far more accurate way of assessing how well babies can absorb and utilise the essential building blocks of protein from breastmilk.

Professor Moughan’s original work in 2013 provided the gold standard for evaluating protein quality in infant formula: the Digestible Indispensable Amino Acid Score (DIAAS).

His latest research with YICO, the Yili Global Maternal and Infant Nutrition Institute and Professor Yin Yulong, a Fellow of the Chinese Academy of Engineering at the Institute of Subtropical Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has produced new data which deepens this understanding further and has already led to new approaches to infant nutrition production within Yili.

“This has been a hugely productive international research alliance and will no doubt lead to further advances in FAO policy,’’ Professor Moughan said.

“Professor Yin is a digestive physiologist of significant international standing and his thoroughness, attention to detail and scientific leadership was crucial to the success of the collaboration.

“The alliance’s work will also lead to global impacts on the production of infant formula leading to improvements in the long-term health of babies and children.

“It has also been very enjoyable working with the scientific team within Yili. I have been very impressed by the technical capabilities of the team and working with them has actually been quite delightful.’’

Head of YICO, Dr Philip Wescombe, said the Yili Innovation Centre Oceania principal aim was to act as a hub for research collaboration across Oceania.

“After 10 years, we are now well-established in driving innovation by strengthening ties with startups, expanding business opportunities, and fostering greater interaction between researchers, industry, and consumers,’’ Dr Wescombe said.

Resident Director of Yili Group Oceania Region, Zhiqiang Li, said Yili was proud of the work of YICO and of Yili’s teams across Oceania and in Inner Mongolia.

“We are honoured to learn of the warm and respectful relationships the company’s internal technical staff have developed with leading global researchers in China and New Zealand, the support we can provide as Asia’s largest dairy producer, and the fifth largest dairy company in the world,’’ Mr Li said.

References

Hodgkinson, S. M., Xiong, X., Yan, Y., Wu, Y., Szeto, I. M.-Y., Li, R., Wescombe, P., Duan, S., Liu, H., Yin, Y., Lim, W. X. J., & Moughan, P. J. (2023). An accurate estimate of the amino acid content of human milk collected from Chinese women adjusted for differences in amino acid digestibility. The Journal of Nutrition, 153, 3439–3447. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tjnut.2023.10.009

Moughan, P. J., Deglaire, A., Yan, Y., Wescombe, P., Lim, W. X. J., Stroebinger, N., Duan, S., Szeto, I. M.-Y., & Hodgkinson, S. (2024). Amino acid requirements of the infant: The amino acid composition of human breast milk. Frontiers in Nutrition, 11, 1446565. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1446565

Wu, Y., Yan, Y., Xiong, X., Li, R., Duan, S., Tang, M., Szeto, I. M.-Y., Liu, H., Hodgkinson, S. M., Moughan, P. J., Wescombe, P., Wang, J., & Yin, Y. (2025). Effect of different ratios of αlactalbumin to βcasein in infant formula on true ileal digestibility and intestinal morphology of suckling piglets. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 73, 6144–6150. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jafc.4c10520

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/universities-yili-lincoln-university-research-collaboration-informs-global-health-policy/

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More gigs, more goals, more growth: Eden Park planning restrictions eased

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is building Eden Park’s future as a major events venue, making significant changes to local planning rules that have been holding Eden Park back from its full potential, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Late last year the Government launched an investigation into whether outdated planning rules were unnecessarily limiting Eden Park’s ability to host major events and deliver jobs and economic growth for Auckland and the rest of the country,” Mr Bishop says.

“That investigation, which included public consultation in November, found the rules were overly restrictive, out of step with modern stadium use, and were directly constraining economic activity. We have now accepted all of the recommendations in full, with some technical amendments to reflect feedback from Auckland Council.

“The changes will allow Eden Park, New Zealand’s largest stadium with a capacity of around 50,000, to host more major events that bring significant benefits to the local and national economy.

“Under the new settings, Eden Park will be able to host up to 12 large concerts and 20 medium-sized concerts per year as permitted activities, without needing resource consent. That’s up from its current limit of 12 concerts, which were not permitted to be from more than six different artists or acts.

“The changes also enable a wider range of events, including exhibitions, displays, markets, fairs, trade fairs, and cultural and community events.”

Chris Bishop says the changes are expected to be in place in April 2026.

“Concerts will be able to take place on any day, must finish by 11pm, and can run for up to eight hours. This is a significant increase on the current maximum of five hours on a weekday and six hours on a Saturday.

“Night-time sports games will be permitted on any day, including Sundays, provided noise standards are met. Existing caps on the number of night games per year and per 35-day period, as well as the restriction on day-night cricket matches, will be removed.”

Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston says it’s a huge step forward for major events.

“We know big events deliver. For example, over three years, 14 Auckland shows (including Coldplay and Pearl Jam) generated $33.7m for the local economy with 490,000 attendees,” Ms Upston says.

“These changes sit alongside the Government’s $70 million events and tourism investment package announced in September, which is about helping New Zealand compete internationally, attract world-class events, and give both visitors and locals more reasons to get out and enjoy them.”

Auckland Minister Simeon Brown says Eden Park is our national stadium and a critical piece of infrastructure for Auckland and New Zealand, and these changes secures its future as a premier events venue.

“This is a significant win for Auckland and for New Zealand. Strengthening Eden Park’s ability to host major events supports our broader work to grow the economy and ensure Auckland remains a world-class destination.

“It means more jobs, more activity for local businesses, and more opportunities for people – whether they live here or are visiting – to enjoy more events at our largest stadium,” Mr Brown says.

“These common-sense changes will enable Eden Park to operate like a modern, world-class stadium and deliver more jobs and economic benefits for Auckland and the rest of New Zealand,” Mr Bishop says. 

Note to editors: 

Please see attached fact sheet which compares the key changes to Eden Park’s existing restrictions with the status quo.

Regulation-making power background:

The investigation was conducted under the new regulation-making power in the Resource Management Act, recently passed into law through the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Act 2025. 

The regulation-making power enables the Minister Responsible for RMA Reform to remove or modify provisions in RMA plans where they negatively impact economic growth, development capacity or employment.

The Minister must investigate the impacts of the provisions and whether specified statutory criteria are met and produce an investigation report which must be made publicly available.

The Minister must then report to Cabinet with the findings, for a final decision on any changes to the RMA plan. 

The changes will be delivered via regulations, which will require Auckland Council to amend its plan without using the regular plan-making process.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/more-gigs-more-goals-more-growth-eden-park-planning-restrictions-eased/

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State of Origin heads to New Zealand

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Attached:

NRL State of Origin fact sheet

MIL OSI

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

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

Source: Burnett Foundation Aotearoa

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

MIL OSI

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

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Politics – Seymour’s calls for small government lazy politics straight from hard-right playbook – ignores NZ’s growing challenges – PSA

Source: PSA

ACT Leader David Seymour’s latest attack on the public sector is straight out of the hard-right playbook – slash and burn now, worry about the consequences later.
“We’ve seen this movie before Iin the 1980s and 90s and we know how it ends – with worse services for New Zealanders and the country less able to deal with the challenges we face,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The last thing New Zealand needs is more ideologically driven re-structuring designed to meet some arbitrary numerical target and bugger the impact on what really matters – the future of our country and the health and well-being of New Zealanders.
“This is lazy politics from David Seymour and an attempt to distract from the failure of the Government to address the high cost of living facing New Zealanders.
“Seymour wants to cut agencies at exactly the wrong time. New Zealand’s population is growing rapidly and aging. We face a massive infrastructure deficit. Climate change is here right now, as recent severe storms even this week show.
“On top of that, we have our unique bicultural obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, severe homelessness and high unemployment, and being an isolated island nation dependent on biosecurity – these challenges are complex and require more capability, not less, they need specialist agencies.
“Now is the time to be investing in the public services here to support New Zealand, not make more damaging cuts.
“The sad irony is that every time there’s a crisis – whether it’s Pike River, the Christchurch earthquakes, or the 15 March mosque attacks – the Royal Commissions consistently recommend more resources and clearer accountability, not fewer agencies.
“What Seymour dismisses as ‘vanity portfolios’ are often responses to specific community needs and advocacy. The Cancer Control Agency exists because cancer advocates fought for years for independent national leadership. Agencies serving women, Pacific peoples, and ethnic communities exist because these groups were historically underserved by government.
“Seymour claims reducing agencies will magically boost productivity and wages. That’s fantasy economics. Countries with strong public services – like Norway, which he name checks – invest heavily in their public sector and pay their workers well.
“ACT’s ideological belief in a minimal state will leave ordinary Kiwis to fend for themselves while the wealthy like Seymour’s landlord mates get tax cuts.
“The truth is New Zealand needs a capable, well-resourced public service to tackle the challenges ahead. Seymour’s slash-and-burn approach would leave us weaker, less prepared, and less able to protect New Zealanders when they need it most.
“Voters will have a clear choice this election – and the PSA will be saying loud and clear that ACT wants to sacrifice our future all for a deeply flawed ideology.”
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/politics-seymours-calls-for-small-government-lazy-politics-straight-from-hard-right-playbook-ignores-nzs-growing-challenges-psa/

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

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

Stan

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

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

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New Zealand signs up to U=U commitment for HIV

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Notes to editor:

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

MIL OSI

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

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Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble to Present “Symphony of Light & Legacy” Concert in March

Source: Media Outreach

Supporting Sustainable Social Development through Arts and Education Celebrating the Power of “Music Changes Lives”

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – Great Eagle Group (Stock Code: 41) today announced that the Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble, supported by the Group, will present its annual concert, “Symphony of Light & Legacy”, on 29 March 2026 at The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts in Wanchai. Through the children’s performances, the concert will share their growth and transformation along their music-learning journeys.

Titled “Symphony of Light & Legacy”, the concert reflects the belief that music, like starlight, can gently illuminate children’s paths forward. “Light” symbolises music as a guiding presence, while “Legacy” represents the continuation of care and encouragement—so that each generation of children may feel supported as they explore a broader future.

Following the inaugural “Grow & Glow” concert in 2023, the Ensemble once again appears on a professional stage. The performance offers a glimpse into the children’s learning journeys and the values nurtured through music training, including discipline, confidence and a sense of responsibility. It also reflects the steady efforts of dedicated educators and the support of the wider community.

For many years, Great Eagle Group has supported the Music Children Foundation (the “Foundation”) in providing underprivileged children with access to structured, quality early music education. In 2018, the Group established the Great Eagle Music Children Ensemble under the Foundation to offer outstanding students a continuous and progressive platform. Through professional training, public performances and competitions, the programme seeks to nurture children’s musical abilities and whole-person development. Currently, the Ensemble comprises 73 orchestra members and 24 choir members. To date, the programme has benefited more than 187 children and delivered over 40 public performances.

Mr Alexander Lo, Executive Director of Great Eagle Group, said: “At Great Eagle, our vision is ‘Sustainable Growth’. We believe a company’s responsibility extends beyond business, and that we must use our resources thoughtfully in support of the communities we serve. Over the years, we have focused on arts, youth education and environmental protection, and remain committed to working alongside partners who share these values. We hope, in our own small way, to help create more opportunities for children to be seen, encouraged and supported, so they may move forward with greater confidence and choice.”

Ms Annike Pong and Ms Monique Pong, Co-founders of the Music Children Foundation, said: “Music brings together art and education in a way that can help children build confidence, broaden their horizons and discover their potential. We are thankful for Great Eagle Group’s long-standing support, which allows us to reach more communities and provide quality music education to more children.”

Tickets for “Symphony of Light & Legacy” are available via Cityline starting today. The concert is also supported by Cordis, under Langham Hospitality Group, a member of Great Eagle Group. Cordis’s brand manifesto, “Let Your Heart Rule”, encourages people to stay true to themselves and cherish authentic connections, which resonates with the positive messages conveyed through music.

“Symphony of Light & Legacy” – Concert Details

Date: 29 March 2026 (Sunday)
Time: 7:30 pm – 9:00 pm
Venue: Hong Kong Jockey Club Amphitheatre,
The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts
Ticketing: Cityline https://cultural.cityline.com/en/2026/symphonylightlegacy.html

Programme Highlights and Concert Narrative

The concert will be led by renowned music educator Mr Ray Tsoi as Orchestra Conductor, with Dr Lo Po Yan serving as Choral Director and Choir Conductor.

First Half: Choral works portraying children’s inner journeys from enlightenment to growth.

Second Half: Orchestral performances that, through richly layered melodies, express the strength and momentum of moving forward.

Sustained Commitment, Creating a Shared Future

Great Eagle Group believes the role of a corporation extends beyond achieving business success to making good use of its resources and uniting collective efforts to bring meaningful and sustainable positive impact to the community. Through continued investment in children and youth development, mental wellbeing and cultural education, the Group will continue to move forward hand in hand with society to help create a better future.

At the “Symphony of Light & Legacy” Concert, children will write their dreams through music and pass on hope.

Hashtag: #GreatEagleGroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/great-eagle-music-children-ensemble-to-present-symphony-of-light-legacy-concert-in-march/

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All Stars countdown kicks off in Hamilton

Source: New Zealand Government

Hamilton is set to come alive this weekend as rugby league fans descend on the city for the 2026 NRL All Stars event, backed by the Government. 

“The NRL All Stars event is a unique, trans-Tasman celebration of sport, community and culture, bringing together Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori players to represent their countries,” Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.

“With a large influx of passionate fans and international broadcast reach, the event will give an economic boost to Hamilton and the wider Waikato region.

“It’s a fantastic event not only delivering an economic boost to the region but helping grow grassroots rugby league from the ground up – one tackle at a time.

Last hosted in New Zealand in 2023 in Rotorua, the All Stars event includes a men’s and women’s game, a welcome ceremony, player appearances and community events.

“It will attract league fans from across New Zealand and Australia to the Waikato, giving a boost to our local tourism and hospitality businesses,” Louise Upston says.

“Events like these generate a buzz in our regions, keeping our communities and local businesses humming. The Government is committed to supporting more events like these, establishing New Zealand as a go-to destination for major events.”

The NRL All Stars fixture is scheduled for Sunday 15 February 2026 at FMG Stadium, Hamilton.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/all-stars-countdown-kicks-off-in-hamilton/

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EMA backs broad direction of new Health and Safety Bill – but warns key gaps must be fixed

Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the government’s new Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill takes a constructive step towards a modern, risk-based system – but warns several significant issues must be addressed through the submission and select committee process.
EMA Manager of Employment Relations and Safety Paul Jarvie says a risk-focused framework is the right direction. However, there are flaws and inconsistencies that could undermine its intent.
“A modern, risk-based approach is different to what we currently have, but the current approach isn’t working. So it’s worth trying this – a framework successfully used in other jurisdictions around the world.
“We do have concerns about the proposed exemptions for smaller businesses (fewer than 20 employees), as size has no bearing on risk, and some of the proposed exemptions could create new problems rather than solving old ones.”
The proposed bill limits these businesses’ requirements to identify and manage critical risks. Businesses with more than 20 workers, however, would continue to be responsible for managing all risks, not just critical ones.
However, the greatest cause of workplace injuries across all sectors is strains, sprains, and back injuries. These would not meet the critical-risk criteria and therefore would not be required to be identified or managed.
Jarvie says this creates a problematic disconnect.
“It’s vital that businesses collect all this data – for example, incident and near-miss reports – to understand what is potentially going to happen next. Low-level injuries can often help identify a more significant issue. Workplace violence, fatigue, and stress are other examples of issues employers need to identify and manage but which would not meet the critical-risk criteria,” he says.
“Creating a distinction between a small business and a large business doesn’t make any sense when both could have the same risks and injury profiles.”
Another challenge is allowing other legislation to override health and safety requirements if those duties are already covered elsewhere.
Jarvie says this creates uncertainty and could lead to unintended consequences.
“We already see conflicting requirements between agencies – for example, between land transport rules and health and safety guidance. Without clearer definitions, the bill risks widening those gaps.”
The EMA strongly supports the bill’s proposed industry-led Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs) and its clearer distinction between governance and operational duties.
However, Jarvie says the absence of draft regulations could add confusion.
“We urgently need regulations to support the current Health and Safety at Work Act. It’s critical that we see them and that they align with and direct the bill’s intent.”
Jarvie says the success of the reforms will rely on a well-resourced, modern regulator that works collaboratively with business, similar to the Swedish system.
“Employers need confidence that they’ll receive consistent, practical advice. Without that, the risk-based model won’t deliver the improvements we all want.”
“Overall, we support the Bill’s intent,” Jarvie says. “But several significant issues need to be addressed to avoid unintended consequences. If we get this right, it will help New Zealand finally shift its stubborn health and safety performance.”
The EMA will continue reviewing the legislation in detail and will provide further guidance to its members in the coming weeks.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/ema-backs-broad-direction-of-new-health-and-safety-bill-but-warns-key-gaps-must-be-fixed/

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Privatisation – Te Whatu Ora’s embarrassing U-turn over proposed car park plan – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Te Whatu Ora needs to go back to the drawing board and prioritise worker safety after reversing plans to charge hospital workers market rates for car parks, NZNO says.
Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO delegate and Christchurch health care assistant Al Dietschin says NZNO members were angered they weren’t consulted on the draft policy.
“Last year there were several shocking attacks on hospital health workers forced to walk to their cars because they can’t park at or near their workplaces. This includes a Palmerston North nurse being carjacked and a Christchurch nurse being left with a concussion.
“Our members provided robust feedback that charging health workers market rates for car parks was not the answer and would leave those unable to pay up to $100 a week even less safe.
“This is an embarrassing U-turn for Te Whatu Ora, but it is heartening they have listened to our members. Te Whatu Ora now has a chance to get this right and consult on and draft a policy that makes car parking for health workers safe, reliable and affordable,” Al Dietschin says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/privatisation-te-whatu-oras-embarrassing-u-turn-over-proposed-car-park-plan-nzno/

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Banking Ombudsman puts property partnerships under the spotlight this Valentine’s Day

Source: Banking Ombudsman Scheme

12 February 2026 – Partnering with friends or family members can be a great way to get on the property ladder, but it can come with risks, warns the Banking Ombudsman.
Nicola Sladden said a recent dispute investigated by the scheme was a timely reminder for people buying property with others to have a firm understanding of their rights in a partnership.
“Shared financial arrangements can work well when everyone is in agreement about goals and timeframes. But problems can arise when circumstances unexpectedly change,” said Ms Sladden.
“When relationships end, joint accounts, loans and partnerships can become tricky. It’s crucial to understand how your accounts are set up, and what your rights and obligations are. This knowledge can prevent a difficult situation from becoming even more stressful.”
In 2008, Sonia helped her son Nicholas and his wife Laura buy a home. The three formed a partnership to buy the property and jointly borrowed $320,000 from the bank.
When Nicholas and Laura separated in 2023, Sonia and Laura wanted to sell the property, but Nicholas told the bank they were in disagreement about what to do. The bank then refused to act on any instructions from the borrowers until the dispute was resolved. It also refused Sonia’s offer to repay the loan in full so the mortgage could be discharged.
The Banking Ombudsman scheme considered the bank had acted wrongly in refusing to discharge the mortgage. The loan terms allowed any of the three borrowers to repay the loan. Under section 97 of the Property Law Act 2007, a mortgagor has the right to repay a mortgage in full and “redeem” the property. The disagreement between the borrowers did not affect the partnership’s ability to give instructions to the bank because Sonia was able to pass resolutions without the others’ agreement and therefore instruct the bank on the partnership’s behalf.
The bank offered Sonia $10,000 to resolve her complaint, an offer she accepted.
Ms Sladden said the scheme’s guide on relationship breakdowns and banking recommends banking customers:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/banking-ombudsman-puts-property-partnerships-under-the-spotlight-this-valentines-day/

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How accessible are nangs? An RNZ investigation found out

Source: Radio New Zealand

AFP/ GARO

A Checkpoint investigation has revealed how easy it is to get potentially dangerous nitrous oxide or nangs in large quantities from dairies, vape stores and convenience stores.

The gas has legitimate medical uses and is also used in catering to whip cream, however it is illegal to supply, possess or use the gas recreationally.

Checkpoint visited 16 stores across three areas in Auckland and found at least half were willing to sell canisters of the gas in a range of sizes with virtually no checks.

One vape store sold 1.1L and 3.3L canisters of the gas, for $50 and $150 respectively. It also offered a “combo” price of $170 for the pair.

At another dairy visited by Checkpoint, the shop keeper had a range of products available to buy – from packs of the small, silver tubes of nitrous oxide to the larger, thermos-sized 1.1L canister. The shop-keeper also said the 1.1L was the most popular size.

Several dairies offered packs of the silver tubes, with prices ranging from $10 for the 10-pack to about $60 for a 50-pack.

The gas was also available to purchase on its own, without cream dispensers. Only one dairy clarified verbally that the canisters were only to be “used for baking”.

Nitrous oxide products available to purchase one of the stores visited by Checkpoint in Auckland. RNZ / Teuila Fuatai

Doctors and community leaders have been particularly concerned about the availability of the thermos-sized 1.1L and 3.3L canisters.

Dr Nicholas Jones is the medical officer of health in Hawke’s Bay, where two cases of nerve damage have recently been linked to huffing of nitrous oxide.

At a recent community meeting on the issue, he said people were alarmed to hear that recycling services in the region were collecting around 300kg of empty canisters a fortnight.

That does suggest “there’s quite a significant amount of this being used”, he said.

Large canisters of nitrous oxide can be easily purchased. Supplied

While nitrous oxide has traditionally been viewed at the lower end of the harm-spectrum for psychoactive substances, Jones highlighted the potential risks around large amounts of the gas being accessible and available.

“What seems to have changed recently is the availability of these large canisters, you know, up to 3.3L of gas, whereas in the past people may have used the small silver canisters about, I think it’s about 8 grams or something, a relatively low amount.”

“You’re able to then actually access 3.3L, you could be using it for a prolonged period of time over a long period of time.”

That increased risks significantly, he said.

Dr Nicholas Jones. RNZ / Anusha Bradley

“Although it’s not known for being a drug that causes, you know, psychological dependence, obviously the longer you use it and the more you use it, the higher the risk of, you know, becoming dependent on it.

“With chronic use you can start developing nerve damage associated with vitamin B12 deficiency.”

He suspected this could become more common, especially as people may not understand the risks of nitrous oxide-use.

“One of the problems is that people may be ringing up with concerns, health concerns, but not necessarily identifying the fact that they’re associated with, you know, the use of nitrous oxide.”

Checkpoint also spoke to a woman whose adult child became a heavy user of nitrous oxide last year.

The woman asked to remain anonymous but wanted to share her family’s experience in the hope more could be done to prevent abuse of the substance.

She said her daughter became hooked the gas and was using the large, thermos-sized canisters.

It caused physical problems for her daughter like anaemia, numbness in the her fingers and toes, and issues with bumping into things, she said.

Her daughter also ended up in hospital because of nerve damage, and the addiction had severe mental health impacts and led to self-harm.

The woman said the family found the gas was being purchased from a vape store.

When they went in to see what checks were in place, they found customers were asked to write down their name and the intended use for their purchase on a piece of paper.

She said people had written down names like “John Smith” and that they wanted the gas for a “21st birthday cake”

The woman said police investigated the store, which was eventually closed down. However, she remained concerned about the availability of the gas, and pointed out the closed-vape shop was simply one outlet selling nitrous-oxide products.

She also said her daughter had recovered after quitting “cold turkey” and getting help. The family now want the government to be more proactive and shut down illegal sales.

For anyone affected by issues discussed in this story, free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor. Or call 0800 Lifeline or text HELP to 4357.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/how-accessible-are-nangs-an-rnz-investigation-found-out/

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The Decade That Matters: New Research Shows Which Decade Men Must Prioritise Heart Health (it’s their 30s!)

Source: Exercise NZ

“We now know the decade when men should and need to start prioritising heart health as preventative measures, and that decade is their 30s… The actions men take, or don’t take, during this period can determine their cardiovascular health for the rest of their lives.”

“The good news is that even if you missed your 30s, starting now still delivers powerful benefits, right up till your 80s”

“Exercise isn’t just about fitness or appearance, it’s one of the most powerful forms of preventative medicine available… The earlier men prioritise movement, the greater the protective effect. The message is simple: don’t wait for symptoms. Prevention starts now.”

New international research has identified a clear turning point in men’s heart health, and it’s earlier than most expect.

A long-term study from Northwestern University has found that men’s risk of heart disease begins accelerating significantly from around age 35, establishing the mid-30s as a critical decade for prevention.

“We now know the decade when men should and need to start prioritising heart health as preventative measures, and that decade is their 30s,” says Exercise New Zealand Chief Executive Richard Beddie.

“The actions men take, or don’t take, during this period can determine their cardiovascular health for the rest of their lives.”

The study tracked cardiovascular risk across adulthood and found men reach clinically significant risk levels earlier than women, even when traditional risk factors are accounted for. This reinforces the importance of early lifestyle-based prevention, particularly regular physical activity.

International evidence consistently shows exercise improves blood pressure, cholesterol levels, insulin sensitivity, and body composition, while increasing cardiorespiratory fitness, one of the strongest predictors of longevity and reduced heart disease risk.

However, many men reduce their activity levels during their 30s due to work demands, parenting, and time pressures, precisely when prevention is most effective. Importantly, Exercise New Zealand emphasises that while the 30s represent an optimal window for prevention, it is never too late to benefit from exercise.

This ground-breaking research is particularly concerning given current participation levels in Aotearoa. According to the latest Ministry of Health survey, less than half of all adults meet the recommended physical activity guidelines. Additionally, only around half of all men achieve the minimum level of exercise needed to protect their heart health and reduce their risk of chronic disease.

“The good news is that even if you missed your 30s, starting now still delivers powerful benefits,” says Beddie. Research highlighted in ScienceDaily consistently shows that improving fitness at any age, even into your 70s and 80s, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and extend quality of life. While the 30s are an ideal time to begin prioritising heart health, the most important thing is simply starting, wherever you are now. The human body responds positively to movement at any age.

What Men Should Be Doing: Before, During, and After Their 30s

Exercise New Zealand is encouraging men to view their 30s as a pivotal opportunity to protect their future health, with clear guidance across life stages:

Before your 30s: Build the habit
Establish regular physical activity as part of your identity and lifestyle. Consistency is more important than intensity.

During your 30s: Protect your future
Prioritise structured exercise, grow muscle mass, and support cardiovascular fitness. This is the decade where prevention has the greatest long-term impact.

After your 30s: Maintain and strengthen
Continue regular exercise to slow age-related decline, protect heart function, prioritise growing/maintaining muscle mass to maintain independence and quality of life.

“Exercise isn’t just about fitness or appearance, it’s one of the most powerful forms of preventative medicine available,” says Beddie. “The earlier men prioritise movement, the greater the protective effect. The message is simple: don’t wait for symptoms. Prevention starts now.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/the-decade-that-matters-new-research-shows-which-decade-men-must-prioritise-heart-health-its-their-30s/

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Slavery victims tell of their years-long ordeal

Source: Radio New Zealand

Moeaia Tuai was sentenced to jail for more than 16 years on Thursday. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

This story discusses details of slavery and sexual abuse.

Two young people have told how they were held in slavery by an Auckland man for several years.

Former prison officer Moeaia Tuai, who is 63, was found guilty by a jury last year of two charges of slavery, two counts of rape and a string of other sexual assaults. He was on Thursday jailed for more than 16 years.

In a victim statement, one of the complainants said he took her youthful happiness, her voice and virginity, and she sometimes felt like her soul had left her body. “A lot of the time, I wish I wasn’t here,” she said, adding she wished she was living a normal girl’s dreams and living her life.

“But sadly, instead, I am one of those girls fighting demons and emotions I don’t deserve, every day,” she said.

“I find it very hard to communicate with others because I was always stopped from speaking with anyone and everyone… I often have flashbacks that just hold me back and I’d rather be home alone.

“To hear my mother’s heartbreak after 10 plus years of being kept apart – my mother’s first time in New Zealand was for a court case.”

She described Tuai and his relatives as a “narcissistic and hypocritical family”.

Suppression orders prevent any information likely to identify the victims from being published.

The second victim, a young man, spoke through tears about the good Samaritans who helped him when he ran away, frightened and not able to sleep at night.

The High Court in Auckland was packed with family and friends of Tuai and his victims, with several crying while the details of the offending were read out.

‘False testimony’

“My parents are now trying to rebuild the good life that was broken because of these people… A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

He spoke through an interpreter to the defendant and his relatives – some of whom gave evidence to the jury, but also faced allegations during the trial that they too were involved in the offending.

“To anyone who has given false testimony here, I pray that you feel repentance in your heart. A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

Only Tuai has been charged in connection to the offending, which occurred from 2016 to 2024.

The court heard he might face poor treatment, and need to be segregated if prisoners found out he was a Corrections officer.

Justice Michele Wilkinson-Smith was asked to consider whether Tuai could have a shorter sentence because of that, and also due to the effect his sentence would have on his sick wife. She granted a small reduction to the jail term – and noted his wife had also benefited from the offending.

Funding Tuai’s lifestyle

Sentencing Tuai, Wilkinson-Smith said the older complainant had been assured before arriving in New Zealand that he could finish his secondary school education, but he was immediately put to work at a boarding lodge that his wife’s sister owned.

After moving to Australia, Tuai took control of the male complainant’s internet banking, his bank card and passport, allowing him only $100 of his weekly pay for full-time work.

“He was funding your lifestyle,” she told Tuai, saying that only ended when the man ran away and managed to get a new passport to return to New Zealand.

Tuai, his wife and the second victim also returned to New Zealand, where she was told she could not go to school – and instead must supplement his state benefits by working cash in hand jobs.

“At one point, the female victim worked 57 consecutive days without a single day off, including weekends,” Wilkinson-Smith said.

“The evidence for that came from your own diary which recorded her working hours…You were using her as a source of labour and income, as you had previously used the male complainant. She had no autonomy and no access to the money she was earning.”

When she had a formal job, her estimated (lost) wages were $80,000.

Saddled with debts

She was ‘treated as property in every way’ by Tuai, who made her work for free, have sex with him, controlled her movements and restricted her ability to get help or report him.

Before he raped her, he bought alcohol to ply her with, using money from her own bank account.

“It is clear that as far as you were concerned, she was in New Zealand only for your benefit,” Wilkinson-Smith added.

He felt entitled to the money the two earned, ‘drained their bank accounts’ and threatened them with deportation, she said, leaving them saddled with debts through loans they were forced to take out.

Both young people suffered threatened and actual violence, and were told they would lose the right to stay in New Zealand if they did not “obey his orders” or alerted authorities.

The judge said slavery was not a “cultural misunderstanding” and she was worried about how widespread it might be.

“I hope that this case highlights for others that this is slavery. It is not legal. You cannot bring people to New Zealand to exploit them for their labour and income.”

Where to get help:

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

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

Sexual Violence

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/slavery-victims-tell-of-their-years-long-ordeal/

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Milestone health and safety bill passes first reading

Source: New Zealand Government

Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden has welcomed the passing of the first reading of the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill, which will reform New Zealand’s work health and safety law and regulations.  

“The changes in this Bill will make it easier to run a business in New Zealand by increasing certainty and removing fear, helping to ease costs of compliance and improve safety outcomes,” says Ms van Velden. 

The Bill addresses concerns businesses had in two key ways. First, by increasing available guidance and support through a strengthening of Approved Codes of Practice (ACOPs) giving businesses access to guidance that is tailored to their own industries and easier to keep up to date than regulations.  

“ACOPs will now act as ‘safe harbours’ for compliance, meaning that if a business complies with their sector’s ACOP, they have done enough to meet their health and safety requirements.  

“Secondly, the Bill will clarify WorkSafe’s functions.  

“A major theme in the feedback we received from businesses was that they don’t know what they need to do to manage their risks and meet their obligations. I also heard concerns about a lack of guidance, regulations not keeping pace with best practice, and uncertainty about WorkSafe’s approach as the regulator arising due to inconsistency and heavy-handedness in punishment. 

“This all results in a feeling of fear and uncertainty that leads businesses to take unnecessary actions to protect themselves, creating more costs to the business without actually making workers any safer.  

“The Bill will require WorkSafe to move from an approach of expecting everyone to address every possible risk, towards one in which WorkSafe provides guidance on the critical risks a workplace must address to meet their obligations under the Act.  

“I expect this will significantly help businesses to understand their responsibilities and give clarity about the actions they should take to protect their workers,” says Ms van Velden. 

“This new focus will make WorkSafe a more consistent and helpful agency, so that businesses can get the support they need to keep workers safe, without wasting resources on external consultants or excessive paperwork compliance. 

“I’m looking forward to hearing feedback, particularly around whether these changes are clear and workable, once the Bill opens for submissions at select committee. 

“Today is a win for practical, common-sense changes that will set businesses up for success in keeping people safe,” says Ms van Velden.  

Note to Editors: 

Other changes include: 

  • Creating a carve-out for small, low-risk businesses from general Health and Safety at Work Act requirements. These businesses will only have to manage critical risks and provide basic facilities to ensure worker welfare.
  • Clarifying what a director’s health and safety due diligence duty involves and where it stops. 
  • Many directors think they need to do more than they should, and directors and management are also duplicating work. This change clarifies that the day-to-day management of health and safety risks is to be left to managers so directors can focus on governance.
  • Clarifying that businesses do not owe health and safety duties to individuals engaging in recreational activities on their land, unless the business has work happening on the same part of the land at the same time. 
  • This will ensure that landowners will not be responsible if someone is injured on their land while doing recreational activities and that health and safety responsibilities will lie squarely on the organisation running the activities. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/milestone-health-and-safety-bill-passes-first-reading/

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Exploring AI to support breast screening services

Source: New Zealand Government

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is being explored as a way to support breast screening services and improve early detection for women across New Zealand, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“AI is providing new opportunities to strengthen our healthcare system and deliver smarter, more responsive care for New Zealanders,” Mr Brown says.

“As part of this, Health New Zealand is inviting organisations with experience in AI image reading to outline how the technology could be safely and effectively used within BreastScreen Aotearoa.

“This exploratory step is about understanding how best to ensure New Zealand women continue to have access to quality, future focused breast screening services.”

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer for women in New Zealand. Around 3400 women are diagnosed each year, and approximately 270,000 women aged 45 to 69 are screened annually through BreastScreen Aotearoa. 

“As demand grows, we need to look at smarter ways to support our workforce and deliver faster, more reliable screening.”

This is the first step in a validation process to understand how AI tools could support radiologists, reduce workload pressures, and improve patient outcomes, while maintaining strong clinical oversight and safety standards.

“This work is focused on future-proofing breast screening so services remain accessible, patient-centred, and responsive to the needs of women.

“AI is already being used internationally to assist with medical imaging. Exploring how it could complement the work of radiologists in New Zealand is an important step toward strengthening early detection and ensuring the long-term sustainability of screening services.”

Health New Zealand will draw on advice from the health technology sector, engage with the breast screening workforce, and assess international examples of AI use in medical imaging.

The work builds on recent improvements to BreastScreen Aotearoa, including extending the screening age range to 74 and transitioning to a population based digital register.

“At the heart of this work is one simple goal: enabling more women to access timely screening and giving them the best possible chance of early detection,” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/exploring-ai-to-support-breast-screening-services/

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Health NZ shrugs off red ratings for big hospital builds

Source: Radio New Zealand

The project management office for the new Dunedin Hospital. RNZ / Delphine Herbert

Health New Zealand says two of its flagship hospital rebuilds are on track despite red alerts put on them months ago.

The red ratings on the Nelson and Dunedin projects were in the latest publicly available investment report from Treasury dated mid-2025.

Around that same time, the central health agency had rated itself badly with Treasury for how it managed its billions in assets, joined in the dog-house by Police and Defence on the latest measurement known as the Chief Executive Annual Attestations.

The Treasury investment report meanwhile showed the Dunedin outpatients building project under cost pressure, by a sum that was blanked out.

It also redflagged Nelson to ministers for not having its business case ready in time for Budget 2026 decisions.

Health NZ said on Wednesday that this related to Nelson’s future stages of work and there was no impact on construction timelines or the expected operation of new facilities.

“The project continues to progress as planned,” said head of delivery of infrastructure, Simon Trotter.

The Nelson project was shrunk to under half its former budget and cut into phases by the present government.

In Dunedin’s new hospital build, the cost risks had since been managed and it was expected to open within budget on time later this year, Trotter said.

The wider programme that included the bigger inpatients build was also expected to be delivered within approved funding.

The total budget was set at $1.88 billion a year ago after the government rescoped it in the face of public protest, on the grounds sticking with the previous plan would blow it out to maybe $3b.

Health Minister Simeon Brown (R) and Nelson Mayor Nick Smith (second from right) open the new emergency department at Nelson Hospital in November 2025. Samantha Gee / RNZ

Trotter also commented that a red rating reflected an assessment against specific reporting measures at a point in time and “does not necessarily indicate a delay to delivery”.

However, Treasury’s description of a red rating was that: “Successful delivery appears to be unachievable. There are major issues which at this stage do not appear to be manageable or resolvable. The programme may need re-baselining and/or overall viability re-assessed.”

Falling short on keeping up

In the other Treasury pulse-taking reports to ministers – the attestations – Health, Defence and Police scored the worst for meeting higher standards for managing their billions of dollars of assets.

Infrastructure experts have castigated public agencies in general for not keeping across the state of their buildings or spending enough on maintenance – the country’s leaky courts have been an egregious example of lack of maintenance, which a series of expensive projects were now trying to sort out.

Since 2023, 62 agency chief executives have had to attest to Treasury annually on how they measure up in 25 areas such as taking care of really critical assets.

A minnow like Antarctica NZ that has been caught up in stop-start rebuilding was non-compliant in only one of the 25 (some measures did not apply) in the latest attestations done last July.

One or two non-compliances were common, such as at Internal Affairs, and perhaps surprisingly Justice, and Kainga Ora, which has massive assets. Education complied with all 25.

By contrast, Health NZ failed in more than half – for 13 out of 25 measures, including being too slow setting up investment assurance standards for its failure-prone digital services; and not properly keeping track of “the identity, condition, and risk exposure” of its service-critical assets.

This last was a black mark against the Defence Force, that missed on seven measures, even as it struggled with a $2-3b refurbishment of rundown housing and other facilities.

Police were non-compliant with the watchdog’s demands on eight fronts, telling Treasury they were five-10 years away with some, such as getting all their asset management plans done or having an IT set-up that could keep track.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/health-nz-shrugs-off-red-ratings-for-big-hospital-builds/

Posted on

New DOC concessions support regional economies

Source: New Zealand Government

Long-term tourism concessions that will support jobs, strengthen regional economies, and keep visitor access open at key South Island destinations have been announced by Conservation Minister Tama Potaka.

The decisions include a 38-year concession for The Remarkables Ski Area, and a 30-year guided walking concession on the Milford Track and a 25-year concession for Te Ana-au Caves in Fiordland Te Rua o te Moko. 

“My focus is supporting jobs and regional economies.

“Long-term concessions give operators the certainty they need to invest, train staff, and plan ahead,” Mr Potaka says.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says the decisions provide important confidence for the tourism sector and the regional economies that depend on it.

“Tourism supports thousands of jobs across the South Island. Giving operators long-term certainty helps businesses invest, retain staff, and deliver high-quality experiences for visitors, while supporting local communities,” Ms Upston says.

A 38-year concession has been issued to NZSki for The Remarkables, supporting jobs across Queenstown visitor economy, including hundreds of roles and local businesses. Public access to surrounding areas will continue.

In Fiordland Te Rua o te Moko, a 30-year guided walking concession for Tourism Milford Limited (Ultimate Hikes) will allow guided walking on the Milford Track to continue long term, supporting jobs across transport, accommodation and tourism services.

“These decisions strike the right balance of protecting our natural environment, supporting regional livelihoods, and ensuring people can continue to enjoy these places safely and responsibly,” Mr Potaka says.

These concessions include enforceable environmental and safety conditions, with the Department retaining full regulatory oversight.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/new-doc-concessions-support-regional-economies/