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Green light for Te Awa Lakes

Source: New Zealand Government

Around 1,500 new homes are set to be built as part of the new Te Awa Lakes development thanks to the Government approving the use of an Infrastructure Funding and Financing (IFF) Act Levy for this development, says Housing Minister Chris Bishop.

“To make New Zealand’s housing more affordable, our cities need to grow both up and out – we need bigger cities, and we need more houses. Te Awa Lakes is one of many developments that is making our growth agenda a reality,” Mr Bishop says.

“One factor holding back new housing is infrastructure. We’ve heard loud and clear from developers and councils that there are significant bottlenecks when it comes to the provision of enabling infrastructure, including local government authorities’ financing constraints.

“Councils are responsible for delivering infrastructure such as water and roading but have maximum levels of debt that they’re allowed to take on. These borrowing constraints can delay investment in infrastructure for new, otherwise commercially viable housing developments.

“Developers with viable housing projects should not be held back by this.

“The IFF Act was originally enacted to make it easier for developments to get off the ground through innovative approaches to funding infrastructure that bypass these constraints.

“The model works by establishing a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for a project – separate from council’s balance sheets. The SPV then repays any finance raised by charging a levy to homeowners and landowners who benefit from the infrastructure.

“Essentially, the IFF Act model allows growth to pay for growth.

“The Government has approved an IFF Act levy for Te Awa Lakes, an approximately 2,500-property development northwest of Hamilton. The Levy will fund up to $50 million of water and roading infrastructure, supporting 1,500 of these new properties. The first homes are expected to be delivered as early as 2029.

“This is a fantastic outcome for Hamilton, one of New Zealand’s fastest growing cities.

“The Levy will be administered by Hamilton City Council and will be repaid over a 30-year period beginning 1 July 2027. The levy will be fully disclosed to potential buyers, allowing them to factor it in before making any decisions.

“To date, only two IFF Act Levies have been authorised, and neither were for new housing developments – falling well short of the intent and ambition of this legislation.

“While the Te Awa Lakes development is a good start, we know there are other viable, developer-led projects that are being held back by these constraints.

“That’s why in November 2025, the Coalition Government introduced the IFF Act Amendment Bill, which enhances the Act’s usability, removes unnecessary barriers to uptake, and broadens project eligibility.

“We are making the Act more viable and flexible so developers, councils, and other infrastructure providers can get on with building the infrastructure our growing communities need. We expect to pass this Bill into law before the election.

“In addition to the IFF Act Levy, Te Awa Lakes is also being supported by this Government’s Greenfield Model, which we established in Budget 2025. The Greenfield Model is administered by National Infrastructure Funding and Financing Limited and supports development by lowering financing costs during the project’s construction period – which will ultimately flow through to lower levies for future homeowners.

“This Government is committed to housing growth by freeing up land for development, improving infrastructure funding and financing, and incentivising growth. The IFF Act model is just one of several tools in our Going for Housing Growth toolkit to ensure that infrastructure is not an excuse to prevent growth.”

Notes to Editors

What this means for future buyers:

For people looking to buy in Te Awa Lakes, the levy means part of the cost of the enabling infrastructure is paid gradually over time rather than being built into the upfront purchase price. The levy is transparent and disclosed early and only applies to properties that benefit the most from the new infrastructure. This approach helps brings new housing options to the market at different price points sooner, while ensuring the development has the essential services it needs from day one.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/green-light-for-te-awa-lakes/

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Social Issues – Where is the support for benefit-dependent households? – CPAG

Source: Child Poverty Action Group

Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) is calling for an increase to the Winter Energy Payment (WEP) to help offset the current surge in an already desperate cost of living crisis for families living on core benefits.
Minister Nicola Willis announced today that from April, 143,000 low-to-middle income families with working parents will receive $50 per week through the In-Work Tax Credit (IWTC).
CPAG spokesperson Isaac Gunson says while today’s announcement will alleviate some pressure in working families, there’s nothing for families relying on core benefits.
“Energy crises affect benefit-dependent families too. Where is their support?”
“Close to a quarter of a million children live in households receiving a core benefit. The idea that no additional support will be made available to that many tamariki is outrageous.”
“Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis stood before the New Zealand public today and pointed to the automatic 3.1% inflation adjustment to core benefits on April 1 as the support they’re offering to benefit-dependent households. In the last three weeks, the cost of 91 petrol alone has climbed nearly 40%, and diesel by more than 80%.”
“Our Income Floor research clearly shows many of those incomes are already woefully inadequate to cover even the bare essentials, in a year where the cost of those essentials, like electricity, meat and poultry, and dairy products, rose faster than inflation.”
Programmes like the Winter Energy Payment (WEP), first announced in December 2017 and introduced the subsequent winter, made statistically significant reductions to two financial hardship measures during winter months, in households with working age recipients of a core benefit.
It is here CPAG believes support should be targeted.
Since it’s introduction in 2018, there has been no increase in the WEP rate, held at $20.46/week ($450.12 total) for single parents with no children and $31.82/week ($700.04 total) for couples and people with children.
Between December 2018 (after the first year’s payment concluded) and December 2025, household energy costs have increased 30%.
During the same period at the gas pump, 95, 91, and diesel have increased 31.3%, 31.8%, and 46.2%, respectively. (Source: Household Energy from SNZ CPI & Petrol from FigureNZ’s visualisation of MBIE data)
“CPAG is calling on the Government to increase the WEP by 30% in time for the coming winter. It’s an approach that aligns with the Government’s move to use already-established systems to support low-income families, but which also recognises the pain being felt in households receiving core benefits.”
This would lift the total WEP payment to $585.16 or $26.60/week for singles, and $910.52 or $41.37/week for couples or people with children.
We’d also ask the Government to consider extending the period of this year’s WEP to 26 weeks, starting in April, bringing the total WEP to $691.60 total for singles, or $1,075.62 total for couples or people with children.
“To shield New Zealand’s most vulnerable from the ripple effects of rising fuel costs, the Government should make its response a two-pronged approach: temporarily increase work-related tax credits and provide unconditional cash support to people on benefits through the WEP.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/social-issues-where-is-the-support-for-benefit-dependent-households-cpag/

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Govt. response fails home support workers facing fuel crisis – must do better – PSA

Source: PSA

Time to raise mileage allowance for first time in four years
The Government’s decision to increase income support for low paid workers will not go far enough for 23,000 home support workers hit hardest by sharply rising petrol prices, and that a faster, simpler fix remains available right now.
Today’s announcement on increases to income support for working families fall well short of what home support workers need given many are filling up their own cars at least twice a week and many do not have dependent children.
“This is a really disappointing decision and completely ignores the financial pressure on these essential workers,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi. “These workers have already had their pay equity claim cancelled by this government.
“Nicola Willis promised to help workers ‘acutely impacted’, but she has ignored home support workers. They are low paid, predominantly female workers who provide critical care to elderly and disabled New Zealanders every day. They are the only publicly funded workers required to use their own vehicles in this way. Rising petrol prices hit them directly in the pocket with every shift.
“If the Government is serious about protecting working people from this fuel crisis, it needs to do better and it still can. The Government has a fast, ready fix available by raising the mileage allowance.”
The Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016 requires Health NZ Te Whatu Ora to pay home support workers a mileage rate. The allowance was last adjusted four years ago and is due for review (see explainer below).
“The Health Minister could direct that rate to be lifted immediately, no complicated fiddling with the tax and transfer system, no delay, just fast, real help for the people who need it most.”
Palmerston North home support worker Susan Miers is very disappointed. “It’s not very much really – it’s not going to make a difference to us,” In a typical day, Susan drives between clients across the city and the wider Manawatū region.
“I’m paying $40, $50 more a week than I was just a couple of weeks ago. It’s coming out of my food budget, because it’s the only thing I can change. I’ve already had to borrow money off of people to make things work.”
Fleur Fitzsimons: “The Government has ignored these workers in their time of need, rubbing more salt into their wounds. It’s disgraceful.
“The PSA will continue to fight for workers doing essential mahi in this crisis, workers who have no choice, but to drive to the people they care for every day. They deserve help now more than ever.”
Explainer – In-Between Travel Allowance
What is it? The In-Between Travel (IBT) allowance compensates home and community support workers for the time and vehicle costs of travelling between clients. It is governed by the Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016.
Who does it cover? Around 23,000 home and community support workers who visit the elderly, disabled and injured in their homes, funded by Health NZ, MSD or ACC.
How does it work?
– Workers are paid a flat travel time payment (at their ordinary wage rate) for all trips between clients up to 15km of $2.35.
– It is meant to be a contribution to both maintenance and petrol costs.
– For trips over 15km (“exceptional travel”), workers are paid actual time and distance for that leg based on Google Maps
– Travel to the first client of the day and from the last client is not covered unless it exceeds 15km.
The rate and the problem: The mileage rate is currently 63.5 cents per kilometre – unchanged since March 2022. There have been only two increases in the rate’s entire history (from 50c to 58.5c in August 2020, then to 63.5c in March 2022). The current IRD mileage rate is $1.17 per kilometre (petrol vehicles). Workers are being reimbursed at less than two-thirds of the IRD rate, and with the fuel price spike triggered by the Iran, they are now being reimbursed at well under half their actual costs.
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/2026/03/24/govt-response-fails-home-support-workers-facing-fuel-crisis-must-do-better-psa/

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Discover a season of arts and sports mega events in Hong Kong

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2026 – Hong Kong’s annual arts season moved into its peak last weekend with ComplexCon (21-22 March) returning for its third edition at AsiaWorld-Expo, bringing an eclectic blend of pop culture to the heart of Asia.

It marks the start of a flurry of themed events at landmark venues across the city, including the acclaimed Art Basel Hong Kong (27-29 March) and Art Central (25-29 March).

Speaking at the opening ceremony of ComplexCon, Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said, “We are celebrating Hong Kong’s unique status as the premier East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. Since its Hong Kong debut in 2024, made possible by the support of our Mega Arts and Cultural Events (Mega ACE) Fund, ComplexCon has established itself as a vibrant and hugely popular cultural event as you can see already, an event of a true blend of pop culture, music, art, and technology, and so much more.”

Attracting thousands of fans from near and far, the two-day programme included Complex Live! Stage, featuring a powerhouse line up headlined by global icons, together with a curated mix of regional hip-hop and R&B (rhythm and blues) pioneers. For collectors, the “Hong Kong Element” offered exclusive merchandise.

Two more world-class arts events are coming up this week, namely, Art Basel Hong Kong (27-29 March) and Art Central (25-29 March).

Art Basel Hong Kong returns to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre with new sectors and fresh curatorial perspectives. Featuring 240 galleries from some 40 countries and territories, the fair presents artworks by established artists and emerging talents from around the world.

Highlight sectors include “Encounters”, showcasing 12 artworks of expansive sculptures and installations drawing on the Five Elements — space/ether, water, fire, wind and earth, while “Insights” features 20 projects focused on artists from Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. Among the newly added themes this year are “Echoes” – a brand new sector spotlighting works created within the past 5 years –, and “Zero 10” dedicated to art of the digital era.

Other returning sectors cover “Discoveries”, which is dedicated to solo presentations by emerging artists from 25 galleries and “Kabinett”, staging thematic presentations with a total of 35 projects, as well as public programmes offering free public access to “Film”, “Conversations” and “Exchange Circle”.

Hong Kong’s strength in global cultural connectivity is reflected in its position as a leading arts trading hub. “Later this month, we will finalise the details of our collaboration with Art Basel for the next five years. This is the result of sustained investment in our role as a global financial centre, cross-sectoral collaboration, and a shared commitment to make Hong Kong a place where the arts can truly flourish,” Law said.

Since its Hong Kong debut in 2024, ComplexCon has established itself as a vibrant and hugely popular cultural event (Photo courtesy of ComplexCon Hong Kong)

There’s more for art enthusiasts to enjoy, with Art Central (25-29 March) lighting up the iconic Central Harbourfront, presenting works from over 100 galleries and 500 artists from Hong Kong, Asia, and beyond. The fair’s 11th edition sees the debut of Central Stage, spotlighting artists with recent, current, and upcoming participation in institutional exhibitions, biennials, and other landmark curatorial endeavours of international standing.

This trio of arts and cultural events is part of the wider Hong Kong Mega 8 – a legendary line-up of eight world-class events throughout March and April. Completing the line-up are the Hong Kong Derby and Champions Day (horse racing), UCI Track World Cup (cycling), Hong Kong Sevens (rugby) and LIV Golf Hong Kong.

“I am sure this exhilarating blend of sports, arts and culture will bring you many enjoyable moments and fond memories, infused with the city’s unique spirit and unstoppable momentum,” Law said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/discover-a-season-of-arts-and-sports-mega-events-in-hong-kong/

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NZNO apologises for abuses in state care

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO apologises sincerely and unreservedly for the involvement of nurses in historic abuses in state care.
The apology was made in a video by NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku and published today on the organisation’s website. It has already been shared with survivors and their whānau.
NZNO has also apologised unreservedly for any role nurses may have had in ignoring and not standing up to abuse in state care.
Kerri Nuku says for decades from the 1950s, children in psychiatric hospitals and other state and faith-based care suffered horrific abuse. 
“And among those responsible were nurses-our own profession. Nurses who were entrusted to care, to protect, to heal. Instead, some inflicted harm. Others turned away. This is a double betrayal, because care and compassion are the very essence of nursing. 
“The experiences of survivors, told to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, were horrific, she says.
“These children were subjected to electric shocks, painful injections and degrading treatment. Nurses stood by while sexual abuse occurred. Some actively participated.”
Kerri Nuku says most of the children involved were Māori, placed in institutions because they were Māori. 
“Colonisation’s destructive intent was at work, and nurses became instruments of that harm. The scars left behind are not just physical. They are pervasive, lifelong, and intergenerational. Survivors and their whānau still carry the weight of trauma. Many do not trust nurses today – and that mistrust is justified.
“That this abuse occurred and for so long is a national disgrace. It is not only an issue of historical significance, but with abuse recognised up to 2019, it is also a contemporary issue. For this reason, NZNO joins calls for the swift implementation of all Royal Commissions’ recommendations.”
An apology without action is hollow, Kerri Nuku says. “Words alone cannot heal. We commit to ensuring this never happens again.” NZNO’s response is guided by the findings of the Abuse in Care inquiries and the Lake Alice Hospital investigation and is a pledge to:
  • Embed trauma-informed and culturally safe practice in nursing education and professional development.
  • Advocate for a robust redress scheme that meets survivors’ needs and honours international standards.
  • Protect whistleblowers and enforce transparency, ensuring no member can hide from accountability.
  • Collaborate with the Nursing Council of New Zealand to strengthen Codes of Conduct and Ethics, making care synonymous with safety and dignity.
These actions reflect NZNO’s commitment to tika and pono – or justice and truth – and to restoring the trust that was broken, Kerri Nuku says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/nzno-apologises-for-abuses-in-state-care/

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NZ Drug Foundation – Alarming increase in low-level drug prosecutions undermining health efforts

Source: New Zealand Drug Foundation

An alarming increase in drug possession charges is causing harm and undermining progress on health-based approaches, the Drug Foundation says.

New Ministry of Justice data shows 2025 had the highest number of low-level charges for drug possession or use in a decade.

Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says the current approach is clearly not reducing drug use, but it is undermining efforts to reduce harm.

“Criminalising people clearly doesn’t deter use – in fact wastewater data out this week shows drug use is at record levels,” she says.

“What it does do is compound some of the worst drug harms by preventing people from seeking help and putting people through the justice system.”

“Our fifty-year-old drug laws have us stuck in this terrible loop where everyone loses. We are wasting huge amounts of money and Police resource on low-level prosecutions that discourage people from seeking support, and in the meantime drug use and harm are surging. We urgently need safer drug laws to break the circuit.”

The Drug Foundation released a blueprint for drug law reform last year in itsSafer drug laws for Aotearoa New Zealand report. (ref. https://drugfoundation.org.nz/news-and-reports/report-proposes-evidence-based-reform-to-new-zealands-drug-laws )

“The evidence from New Zealand and around the world is clear – we need a step-change in investment into harm reduction and health services, and safer drug laws that encourage people to seek support rather than punish them with criminal penalties,” says Helm.

Polling conducted by the Drug Foundation in 2022 showed 68% of New Zealanders supported ‘rewriting the Misuse of Drugs Act and putting in place a health-based approach’.

The increase in charges comes despite a 2019 amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act instructing Police that a prosecution should not be brought unless it is in the public interest, and to consider health-centred approaches first.

Helm says the data shows relying on Police discretion isn’t adequate, with low-level drug charges following a similar trend to total criminal prosecutions since 2019.

“Police discretion is not how we should be dealing with such an important issue. The law should very clearly set out when people should face criminal penalties and when a health response is needed.”

Key stats from the Ministry of Justice

  • The number of drug possession/use charges in 2025 is the highest in the last decade: at 8,474 charges. The number of people convicted for drug/use possession in 2025 (3,158) is the second highest in ten years.
  • Nearly two-thirds (65%, or 3,158) of all drug convictions were for drug possession or use as the most serious drug offence. The proportion of possession/use convictions relative to all drug offences is the second highest in a decade. 
  • Each year since 2016, more people have been convicted of low-level drug offences than for supply, trafficking, or distribution combined. In 2025, 3,158 people were convicted of unlawful possession or use of drugs—the highest number since 2016, compared to 1,657 for supply, trafficking, or distribution.

Ministry of Justice data can be found at https://www.justice.govt.nz/justice-sector-policy/research-data/justice-statistics/data-tables/#General

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/nz-drug-foundation-alarming-increase-in-low-level-drug-prosecutions-undermining-health-efforts/

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Advocacy – Call for Ethical Review of University of Otago Corporate Partnership

Source: Statement by the Palestine Forum of New Zealand

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand expresses deep concern regarding the reported partnership between the University of Otagoand Palo Alto Networks, a company with well-documented ties to Israel’s military and intelligence infrastructure.

At a time when the world is witnessing unprecedented devastation in Gaza Strip and escalating violence across the occupied Palestinian territories, such partnerships raise serious ethical questions. Institutions of higher learning are not merely centres of education; they are moral actors with a responsibility to uphold human rights, justice, and international law.

Engaging with companies linked to systems of surveillance, control, and military operations connected to the ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people risks normalising and legitimising these practices. This stands in direct contradiction to the values that universities in Aotearoa New Zealand claim to uphold.

We remind our academic institutions that they carry a duty as the “critic and conscience of society.” This duty requires not only intellectual independence, but moral clarity, especially in times of profound global injustice.

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the University of Otago to:

Reconsider and suspend this partnership pending transparent ethical review
Engage openly with students, staff, and the wider community
Align its institutional decisions with international human rights principles

We further call on universities and institutions across Aotearoa New Zealand to carefully assess their relationships and ensure they are not complicit in systems that perpetuate injustice.

Our position is grounded in the principles of dignity, accountability, and solidarity. We support all peaceful and lawful efforts, including global civil society initiatives, that seek to uphold the rights of the Palestinian people.

In moments like these, neutrality is not an option. Institutions must choose whether they stand on the side of justice or risk being remembered for their silence.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/advocacy-call-for-ethical-review-of-university-of-otago-corporate-partnership/

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Greenpeace – Worst in a generation, environmentalists slam Fisheries Reform Bill

Source: Greenpeace

The Fisheries Amendment Bill, which will likely have its first reading in parliament this week, is being labelled the worst fisheries policy in a generation by environmental groups who are calling for it to be rejected to protect ocean health.
The bill, pushed by Fisheries Minister Shane Jones, would significantly reduce public input on ocean management and hand unprecedented control over to the fishing industry – while eroding scrutiny.
It includes the proposal to slap a fine of up to $50,000 on anyone sharing cameras on boats footage, reducing public consultation and incentivising trawling ahead of cleaner fishing methods, plus reducing penalties for exceeding catch limits. It is set to go through its first reading in parliament this week. 
 Greenpeace oceans lead Ellie Hooper says: “This bill is a bonfire. It’s a blank cheque written for the trawling industry, that incentivises the most destructive types of fishing and gives the middle finger to New Zealanders who care about protecting the ocean. It is absolutely one of the worst fisheries policies we’ve seen in decades.
 “Nobody voted for this and already we’ve heard strong objections from New Zealanders across the political spectrum – from recreational fishers to environmentalists and ocean advocates. People want a healthy thriving ocean, a move away from destructive bottom trawling, and to know what the industry impact is on the ocean. These amendments are the opposite of that.
“Political leaders must listen to the public and reject this bill. We’ve already seen National admit huge regret over allowing marine protection to be weakened in Hauraki Gulf. Well now’s the time to have a backbone and vote it down. Jones and NZ First are running fisheries management as if they’re employed by the commercial trawling industry.”
Karli Thomas from the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, says more than 100,000 people have called on the government to ban bottom trawling on seamounts, yet the government is ignoring those concerns completely.
“It’s clear that ocean protection, and what New Zealanders want, have been shelved to make way for measures that essentially roll out the red carpet for the commercial fishing industry.
“If this legislation passes it will make it easier for bottom trawlers to carry out wholesale ocean destruction, and evidence of that damage would never see the light of day. Our fishing industry relies on social license and its environmental credentials – but this Bill sets us back decades: literally incentivising the most destructive fishing method, industrial factory trawling, at the expense of those who are trying to fish more sustainably. 
 “We need a healthy ocean where fish populations have a chance to recover, and ocean habitats can thrive. For that to happen the fishing industry must be held accountable. We already know that every year, trawl nets haul up thousands of kilograms of ancient corals, bulldoze the seafloor and kill ocean life including dolphins, seals and seabirds.
“We need more ocean protection, not a weakening of the little protection we already have. Now is the time for politicians to take a stand on behalf of the vast majority of New Zealanders who want to protect the ocean.”
Barry Weeber of ECO said that the legislation was a major step backwards in ecologically sustainable fisheries.
“With the proposed amendments the Minister could ignore the obligations in the principles of the Act that are designed to protect habitats and maintain biodiversity while setting catch limits.”
The proposals also over-turn international obligations including to apply the precautionary approach in making decisions on fisheries management. “The changes give too much power to the Minister while ignoring the needs to consider the impacts of fishing on the marine environment and other interests”, says Weeber.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/greenpeace-worst-in-a-generation-environmentalists-slam-fisheries-reform-bill/

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Greenpeace – We need solutions not bandaids on the energy crisis

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace is calling on the Government to implement actual solutions to the energy crisis, not just short-term band aids. The Government plans to release its response to the energy crisis today.
“As a nation we need to free ourselves from fossil fuel dependency if we are to deal with the energy crisis and the climate crisis,” says Greenpeace Aotearoa Executive Director Dr Russel Norman..
“The Government has spent two years making the country more fossil fuel dependent. They cancelled cycleways, cut public transport, subsidised new motorways, cut the clean car discount, weakened fuel efficiency standards and increased speed limits.
“The Government cancelled the gas transition plan, the big battery project and wants to spend billions on an LNG import terminal. They blocked offshore wind generation by pushing seabed mining in the same location.
“It is time for them to admit they took the nation down a dead end – a dead end of expensive fossil fuel energy and climate disaster.
“It’s time for Luxon to issue a mea culpa.
“Real solutions mean focusing on transport solutions that reduce fossil fuel dependency such as investment in cycleways, trains, and buses.
“Making buses and trains free immediately would be a good start, as would the rapid rollout of temporary protected cycleways.
“Real solutions mean investing in more renewable electricity generation such as solar and wind, as well as more battery storage.
“And real solutions mean reducing the dependence on synthetic nitrogen fertiliser produced from fossil gas.
“And for goodness sake, let’s stop private jets from refuelling while we are short of jetfuel.
“We have the solutions to free our nation from fossil fuel dependence while cutting our climate pollution and saving ourselves a fortune.
“Now we need the Government to free its policy from the grip of the oil and gas companies.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/greenpeace-we-need-solutions-not-bandaids-on-the-energy-crisis/

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Universities – Climate in the courtroom- UoA

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

Around the world, climate lawsuits are reshaping environmental law. Experts in Auckland are examining what this means for New Zealand.

The effects of climate change, government responses and accountability are debated by politicians, protested in the streets, and increasingly, tested in court.

More than 3,000 climate litigation cases have been filed worldwide, and this month, climate law experts are at the University of Auckland to debate and discuss climate action in the courts at the 2026 Climate Litigation Conference: http://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/law/events/climate-in-the-courtroom.html

As climate impacts intensify, more people are asking judges to decide what governments and companies are legally required to do if they’re involved in climate harm or have a role in addressing its impacts.

University of Auckland environmental law expert and conference co-organiser Associate Professor Vernon Rive says the field is evolving quickly.

He says: “We’re looking at how overseas and international developments shape New Zealand climate law, the limits and possibilities of common law remedies like public nuisance, and how attribution science is being reflected in cases.

“This conference offers rare access to leaders in the field; judges, academics, scientists and legal practitioners, who have front-line expertise and deep knowledge in climate change litigation in New Zealand and internationally.”

Jessica Palairet, Executive Director of Lawyers for Climate Action NZ, is chairing a panel on global trends in climate litigation. She says it’s becoming one of the most important ways climate governance is being contested and shaped worldwide.

“We are living in an era of climate consequences, and climate litigation is one of the most interesting and important responses. These cases test complex legal questions about responsibilities and duties relating to climate mitigation and adaptation.”

Internationally, claims aimed at major emitters are accelerating. Professor Jacqueline Peel, Director of Melbourne Climate Futures at the University of Melbourne and a conference speaker, says a major trend is the increasing emphasis on corporate accountability.

“Increasingly, transnational claims are targeting companies for harms from high-emitting activities.”

New Zealand cases are also informing global debates about what climate harm looks like in law. Simon Ladd KC, Executive Director of the Legal Research Foundation – also co-hosting the conference – points to the landmark Smith v Fonterra lawsuit as an example of a case in which the role of the common law in climate litigation is front and centre.

The lawsuit saw iwi leader Mike Smith sue several private companies, including Fonterra. Smith alleges their greenhouse gas emissions contribute to global heating and harm him, his whānau, descendants, and others.
 
The case, due to proceed in the High Court in 2027, set an important precedent when the Supreme Court permitted the question of whether tort law can, and should, respond to climate change to proceed to trial. The Court also recognised the role that tikanga Māori may play in the development of tort law in New Zealand.

“The common law can develop and evolve, but should it?  If it should, where are the limits? Fundamentally, what is the role of private law claims in meeting the challenge of climate change?” asks Ladd.

Meanwhile, Auckland Law School Professor Caroline Foster is chairing a discussion on the International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and its implications for New Zealand.

Foster is interested in how New Zealand legislators, courts, and decision-makers view due diligence requirements in international law.

“I’m also looking forward to discussions on the relevance of customary international law within the common law, and how the common law can protect New Zealanders’ interests in a stable planet.”

The 2026 Climate Litigation Conference is co-hosted by the University of Auckland’s New Zealand Centre for Environmental Law, Legal Research Foundation and Lawyers for Climate Action New Zealand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/universities-climate-in-the-courtroom-uoa/

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Economy – RBNZ Governor discusses impact of Middle East conflict on NZ economy

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ)

24 March 2026 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is well positioned to handle the challenges to our price stability and financial stability mandates caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Governor Anna Breman says in a speech published today.

“We are likely to see higher headline inflation over the near term, and somewhat weaker growth momentum,” Governor Breman says.

In the speech, Global shockwaves to Kiwi shores: The impact of the Iran conflict on New Zealand, Governor Breman acknowledged the uncertainty and hardship that many households and firms are experiencing at this difficult time.

“There is a risk that global financial stability risks could emerge and affect the cost and availability of funding for New Zealand banks. However, recent stress testing suggests that banks are resilient with strong capital and liquidity buffers, and are well-placed to weather severe geopolitical shocks.”

Governor Breman also set out the framework that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will use to assess the appropriate monetary policy response to the effects of the conflict in the Middle East on New Zealand’s economy.

“Getting this judgement right is key to avoiding reacting too early to near-term inflation pressures that monetary policy can do little about – or reacting too late if above-target inflation becomes embedded in the economy,” Governor Breman says.

“Most importantly, monetary policy can and should ensure that a temporary inflation spike does not turn into enduring inflationary pressures. The Committee will be vigilant to this risk.

“The best contribution that monetary policy can make to the wellbeing of New Zealanders is to deliver low and stable inflation over the medium term.”

More information

Download the speech – Global shockwaves to Kiwi shores: The impact of the Iran conflict on New Zealand: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=71bf51470e&e=f3c68946f8
April 2026 Monetary Policy Review and OCR: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=5a0b9e5b9e&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/economy-rbnz-governor-discusses-impact-of-middle-east-conflict-on-nz-economy/

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Applications close for Molesworth farm operation

Source: New Zealand Government

The application period has closed for operators seeking to run commercial farming at Molesworth Recreation Reserve, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

“Rangitahi/Molesworth is New Zealand’s largest farm, with a long history of high-country farming alongside significant conservation, cultural and recreation values.”

The Department of Conservation has received five applications through the competitive process.

“It’s encouraging to see a solid level of interest in managing such a large and complex operation.”

Applications will now be assessed against set criteria, with a preferred operator expected to be identified by the end of May.

“Assessment will consider experience, capability and resources, alongside how biodiversity and heritage values will be protected, cultural values upheld, and public access maintained.”

Once a preferred operator is identified, they will be invited to apply for a concession, which will be publicly notified.

The current lease with Pāmu Farms of New Zealand expires on 30 June 2026. Work is underway to ensure continuity of operations during the transition period.

Further information is available on the Department of Conservation website.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/applications-close-for-molesworth-farm-operation/

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Landlords and tenants to be better off under more effective regulation

Source: New Zealand Government

Landlords and tenants will be better off with effective regulation of residential property managers and organisations under a new Government-backed framework, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka says.

Under the proposed regime landlords and tenants will be able to check if a residential property manager and organisation is registered. There will be a clear pathway to raise complaints, so that property managers can be held accountable if something goes wrong.

“The changes are designed to improve consistency and accountability across the rental sector, while keeping compliance simple and practical.

“A well-functioning rental market depends on trust. Landlords need confidence their funds and assets are being managed properly, and tenants need to know they can rely on their residential property manager to act lawfully.”

The proposed regime will introduce a public register of residential property managers and organisations, alongside clear standards for financial management, conduct and training.

“I have heard concerns from across the sector about poor practices and mishandling of funds. These changes put in place the basic safeguards people expect, including stronger protections for client money and a clear way to raise complaints.”

The regime includes a dedicated Residential Property Managers Regulatory Authority and an independent Residential Property Managers Disciplinary Tribunal to support transparent, consistent handling of complaints.

The framework will:

  • establish a registration system for residential property managers and organisations
  • introduce minimum eligibility, training and experience requirements, that would be set out in secondary legislation
  • set clear requirements for renewals, suspensions, expiries and cancellations of registration
  • require all client funds to be held separately from business accounts, and
  • create a formal complaints and disciplinary process

“Many in the sector support a light-touch model that lifts standards without overburdening the industry. This strikes that balance.”

Strengthening the performance of the rental sector is part of the Government’s wider focus on housing stability and economic growth.

“When the system works well, it delivers better outcomes for tenants, greater certainty for landlords, and a more stable housing market overall.”

Work is underway to progress these proposals into legislation, with further detail to be released in due course.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/landlords-and-tenants-to-be-better-off-under-more-effective-regulation/

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Arrest in Operation Aurora

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie:

Police executing search warrants have arrested one person from a religious organisation that has a presence in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and Fiji.

A 45-year-old man will appear in the Christchurch District Court today charged with unlawful sexual connection, indecent assault, strangulation and rape.

Today’s arrest follows a number of allegations, and partner agencies are supporting those that have come forward.

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, should they wish to. 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 wrap-around support.

Please make a report by calling Police on 105 or using our online service. Click ‘Make a report’.

Please reference Operation Aurora or use file number 260319/8197.

Police will not be making further comment as the matter is before the Court.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/arrest-in-operation-aurora/

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Government’s fossil fuel relief package fails to meet the crisis

Source: Green Party

The Green Party says the Government’s fossil fuel crisis relief package leaves too many New Zealanders behind. 

“The Luxon Government has turned its back on hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders, asking them to foot the bill for Trump’s war on Iran,” said Green Party Co-leader Marama Davidson. 

Green Party Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick says, “The Government’s narrow tweaks to tax credits leaves behind the tens of thousands of people their economic plan has pushed out of work, only to then punish with new obligations and sanctions. 

“So much for planning for the ‘worst case scenario.’ There is no plan to support people onto public transport and reduce fuel demand, no plan to prevent corporations price gouging while families cut back on groceries. 

“Perhaps worse, Luxon has doubled down on his commitment to burn billions of taxpayer dollars on infrastructure that fosters more fossil-fuel dependency and vulnerability, like the LNG import facility and Roads of National Significance. 

“The Greens proposed a sensible plan for free public transport, direct relief for everyone earning under the median income, increased mileage for care workers, more school bus services and a windfall profits tax.” 

“Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis have made the decision to allow the same people they’ve made poorer through their economic decisions to carry the disproportionate cost of this fossil fuel crisis.” 

Green Party Co-leader Marama Davidson said the Government’s package fails to help those hardest hit by the fuel crisis. 

“The Government showed today it is not prepared to match the scale of what people are facing and the crisis New Zealanders are dealing with.” 

“This package does nothing for beneficiaries and their children, retirees, or unpaid carers, who are all left out entirely.” 

“Caregiving is work. Raising children is work. Looking after a parent or a loved one is work. These people are facing rising costs making it more difficult to care for their loved ones. This package does not count any of it.” 

“This is a crisis and the Government’s response will do nothing for most New Zealanders. The situation demands far more than what was announced today.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/governments-fossil-fuel-relief-package-fails-to-meet-the-crisis/

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Fatal crash, Tremaine Avenue, Palmerston North

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died and three others are injured following a three-vehicle crash in Palmerston North overnight.

Emergency services were called to the crash on Tremaine Avenue, near Malden Street, about 2.30am. It involved two cars, one of which caught fire, and a utility vehicle.

Sadly, one person died at the scene. Another has serious injuries and two others have been treated for minor injuries.

The crash also caused power to be cut to multiple addresses.

The Serious Crash Unit has carried out a scene examination and enquiries into the cause are ongoing. The reopened about 7am.

Appeal for information:

Senior Sergeant Christine Pinfold from the Central District Command Centre said Police would like to hear from anyone who captured CCTV prior to the crash.

“We believe the vehicles were travelling south on Tremaine Avenue, towards Malden Street when the crash occurred.

“We ask that people with CCTV in the area please review it and contact us if they have video showing two vehicles travelling down the avenue just before 2.30am.”

Anyone with CCTV showing the vehicles is asked to make a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 260324/3928.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/fatal-crash-tremaine-avenue-palmerston-north/

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Auckland Council’s new advisory panels appointed

Source: Auckland Council

More than 100 members of Auckland’s advisory panels this week officially start an important role to enhance Auckland Council’s democratic structure.

Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed new and returning panel members onboard at a ceremony on 23 March, inviting them to help shape the direction of Auckland’s growth over the next three years and ensure it responds to the needs of all communities.

“Panels provide an opportunity for groups that make up Auckland’s diverse communities, to have a voice. There was a 35 per cent increase in the number of applicants for the advisory panels this term, which underpins the important role they play in our democracy,” says Mayor Brown.

“The access we will get to feedback from panels, about what they and their communities think, will build a more inclusive city.”

Since the council amalgamated in 2010, panel members have supported the Mayor, elected members and staff with feedback on regional strategy, policy decisions and provided valuable insight so that important perspectives are not overlooked.

Newly appointed Chief Liaison Councillor for the advisory panels, Dr Sarah Paterson-Hamlin, says exciting opportunities lie ahead with such a diverse range of talent and experience ready to share their views.

“These panel members represent an incredible wealth of expertise and lived experience of Tāmaki Makaurau from perspectives that otherwise may struggle to be heard,” says Cr Paterson-Hamlin.

“This is a group of high-achieving and extremely well-qualified advisors. They represent the length and breadth of the region as well as passion and knowledge for the sectors they will be advising on. Their insight will be of great value to the staff and elected members of Auckland Council as we consider big decisions for the future of our amazing city, ensuring all kinds of ways of being in this city are heard and included.”

All 57 returning and 63 new panel members will meet regularly throughout the year to consider projects, policies and decisions the city is facing, with the draft annual plan first on their list.

Barry de Geest, interim chair of the Disability Advisory Panel in his second term, says a willingness within the council and from the Mayor to listen to panel feedback is what makes the relationship effective.

“It makes a real difference when this work is genuinely valued,” Mr de Geest says.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenges ahead and the opportunity to keep making a difference. It’s always valuable working alongside council staff and having them actively seek our perspectives on how decisions impact disabled people. That collaboration matters.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/auckland-councils-new-advisory-panels-appointed/

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Easy ways to avoid oil discharges

Source: Maritime New Zealand

Vessels can discharge oily water that causes harm to the oceans and rivers we depend on for our livelihoods and wellbeing.

New Zealand’s latest state of the environment report – Our environment 2025 – outlines how our marine and freshwater environments are being affected by pollution, climate change, and resource depletion. So, please take responsibility for minimising pollution from your vessels.

Even clean bilges can contain oily water mixtures. By taking simple steps, we can protect our precious marine and freshwater environments by minimising any oil being discharged overboard:

  • maintain your engine to minimise leaks, and have a drip pan to catch any drips
  • use sorbent pads in your bilge to protect the environment by ensuring any surface oil is ‘mopped up’ (when no longer usable, take sorbents ashore to be disposed of responsibly)
  • install a float switch in a position where it can automatically stop discharge before any floating oil can be sucked up by a bilge pump.

It doesn’t take much to help keep our waters clean.

Find out more about the state of our marine and freshwater environments

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/easy-ways-to-avoid-oil-discharges/

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Prospecting application targets frontier acreage

Source: New Zealand Government

A new prospecting permit application in the offshore Canterbury Basin signals renewed sector confidence in pursuing opportunities in New Zealand’s search for oil and gas, Resources Minister Shane Jones says.

New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals (NZP&M) has today opened a three-month competitive process for an application submitted by CBX Energy Limited. The proposal outlines a programme of technical and economic studies, including work on a comprehensive Canterbury Basin development strategy.

“The Canterbury Basin, off the east coast of the South Island, is one of New Zealand’s 18 sedimentary basins with known or potential hydrocarbons. It has long been viewed as a promising but largely untapped opportunity,” Mr Jones says.

“The basin remains far less explored than comparable regions overseas, highlighting how much potential is still to be tested.

“Further prospecting and exploration in the Canterbury Basin could unlock new domestic energy resources, strengthening New Zealand’s long‑term energy resilience and creating valuable economic opportunities.”

NZP&M will accept competing applications until 5pm, 24 June. Applications will be prioritised in accordance with the criteria set out in the Minerals Programme for Petroleum 2025. A permit may be awarded in response to the best application that also meets requirements of the Crown Minerals Act 1991. A petroleum prospecting permit is an early‑stage, low‑impact permit that allows a company to search for evidence of petroleum/oil and gas.

Since the removal of the petroleum exploration ban in late 2025, two exploration permit applications have already progressed through the competitive process and are now under assessment, with decisions expected later this year.

For more information see: Applications under the open market competitive process – New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/prospecting-application-targets-frontier-acreage/

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Health targets delivering for New Zealanders

Source: New Zealand Government

Clear improvements are being delivered across all five Government health targets, with the quarterly results for October to December 2025 showing year‑on‑year gains and more Kiwis accessing care sooner, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Across every target, more New Zealanders received care sooner during the quarter, despite sustained pressure on hospitals and services,” Mr Brown says.

“These results show tangible progress in our commitment to putting patients at the centre of the healthcare system, with improved access, timeliness, and outcomes across the health system.”

Key improvements for the October to December quarter compared to the same quarter in the previous year include:

Shorter stays in emergency departments – 74.2 percent of patients were admitted, discharged, or transferred within six hours, up from 72.1 percent.
Shorter waits for first specialist assessment – 62.2 percent of patients were seen within four months, up from 60.6 percent.
Shorter waits for elective treatment – 64.5 percent of patients received treatment within four months, up from 59.2 percent in the same quarter 12 months prior.
Faster cancer treatment – 87.0 percent of patients received cancer treatment within 31 days of the decision to treat, up from 85.9 percent.
Improved childhood immunisation – 82.9 percent of children were fully immunised at 24 months, up from 77.0 percent. 

“These improvements were delivered despite significant challenges facing the health system, including disruption to planned care and appointments, a measles outbreak, and high demand in emergency departments.”

More care was also delivered overall:

179,816 first specialist assessments were completed this quarter, up from 167,917 in the same quarter in the previous year.
51,513 people were treated from the elective waitlist, up from 46,841 in the same quarter in the previous year.
4,824 patients received their first cancer treatment, up from 4,546 in the same quarter in the previous year.
12,127 children were fully immunised at 24 months, up from 11,462 in the same quarter in the previous year.

Emergency departments also saw increased demand, with 340,967 attendances this quarter compared to 332,110 in the same period last year.

“Despite this higher demand, a greater proportion of patients were seen within six hours, which is a strong result for both patients and staff.”

Mr Brown says the Government remains focused on continuing to fix the basics and lift performance across the healthcare system.

“While there is more work to do, these results show meaningful progress for patients across the country.

“I want to thank the doctors, nurses, allied health professionals, support staff, and everyone working across our health system who continued delivering care under sustained pressure. Their dedication and professionalism continue to make a real difference for the patients they care for every day,” Mr Brown says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/health-targets-delivering-for-new-zealanders/