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Advocacy – Up to 50 New Zealanders are fighting Israel’s genocide in Gaza – PSNA

Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa – PSNA

 

PSNA is calling for government accountability to stop and punish New Zealanders going to fight in Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza.

 

A UK report by Classified, from official Israeli sources, shows 39 dual New Zealand/Israeli citizens, and 11 others with more than one additional passport, are serving in the Israeli Defence Force, which is carrying out genocide in Gaza. (The full dataset is in Hebrew at the foot of the article at this link) 

 

“The news that New Zealanders are participating in ongoing mass killing and starvation of Palestinians in Gaza is abhorrent,” says Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa Co-Chair Maher Nazzal. “Our government must do what it can to stop these New Zealanders perpetrating genocide.”

 

“Israel’s political and military leaders are charged with war crimes by the International Criminal Court. Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu, for example, is wanted for trial on war crimes and crimes against humanity.”

 

“As well as killing perhaps hundreds of thousands and wholesale starvation of Palestinians in Gaza, Israel is still systematically destroying all civilian infrastructure: schools, hospitals, churches and mosques, farmland and crops.  Even New Zealanders’ graves in World War One cemeteries are not immune.”

 

“There’s no excuse for anyone fighting for a state committing genocide” says Nazzal. “Our government must step in and rigorously investigate the actions of each and every one of these 50 New Zealanders in the IDF.”

 

“New Zealand has obligations under the international Genocide Convention to do what it can stop a genocide.  New Zealand charged Mark Tayor for membership of ISIS in 2004.  There is ample precedent.  The government must be consistent.”

 

“All of these New Zealanders serving in the IDF have various degrees of culpability in the genocide, certainly the moment they set foot in Gaza.  But they would also be liable for actions at military facilities inside Israel, fuelling up bombers, for example, or calculating missile coordinates.”

 

“These soldiers must be identified, and their service in Israel’s army examined, alongside their social media accounts and those of the brigades and soldiers they joined.”

 

“The government must also collaborate with international agencies for evidence of how many of these people have already been identified for investigation of war crimes.”

 

“The Hind Rajab Foundation is working to identify specific Israeli war criminals for referral to the International Court of Justice,” says Nazzal.

 

New Zealand law does not specifically prohibit citizens from fighting overseas. But the government must act in this case, where New Zealand citizens are participating in a genocide, and also under our Fourth Geneva Convention obligations, where these New Zealand citizens are also enforcing an illegal occupation of Palestinian Territory.

 

“Despite the so-called October 2025 ceasefire, Israel has continued its daily killing of Palestinians, destruction of infrastructure and occupation creep.  Israel still refuses to allow the agreed amount of food, water and humanitarian supplies to enter Gaza.”

 

“Here is a case of direct responsibility by New Zealand citizens, about which the government can’t wash its hands and ignore.”

 

Maher Nazzal

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/advocacy-up-to-50-new-zealanders-are-fighting-israels-genocide-in-gaza-psna/

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Economy – OCR on hold at 2.25% with inflation expected to fall – Reserve Bank of NZ

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

18 February 2026 – Annual consumers price inflation was slightly above the Monetary Policy Committee’s 1 to 3 percent target band at the end of 2025. Increases in food and electricity prices and local council rates were the biggest contributors to above-target inflation.

The economy is at an early stage in its recovery. With ongoing strength in commodity prices, economic activity in the agricultural sector and regional New Zealand remains strong. Although residential and business investment is increasing, households remain cautious in their spending. The labour market is stabilising, but unemployment remains elevated. House price growth remains weak, dampening household wealth and inclination to spend.

In response to previous cuts in the OCR, economic growth is broadening across sectors of the economy, such as manufacturing, construction and some retail. Economic growth is expected to increase over 2026.

Inflation is most likely returning to within the Committee’s 1 to 3 percent target band in the current quarter. The Committee is confident that inflation will fall to the 2 percent midpoint over the next 12 months due to spare capacity in the economy, modest wage growth, and core inflation within the target band.

Risks to the inflation outlook are balanced. The global environment remains highly uncertain. Domestically, greater caution by households in their spending decisions could slow the pace of New Zealand’s economic recovery, risking inflation falling below the target midpoint. But with demand increasing in the economy, businesses could try to increase prices faster than expected, leaving inflation above the target midpoint.

The Committee agreed to hold the OCR at 2.25 percent. If the economy evolves as expected, monetary policy is likely to remain accommodative for some time. The Committee will continue to assess incoming data carefully. As the recovery strengthens and inflation falls sustainably towards the target midpoint, monetary policy settings will gradually normalise.

Read the full statement and Record of meeting: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=cc3fd2de11&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/economy-ocr-on-hold-at-2-25-with-inflation-expected-to-fall-reserve-bank-of-nz/

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Oversight agencies call for faster change to keep children safe following second review by Independent Children’s Monitor

Source: Independent Children’s Monitor, and Children’s Commissioner and Ombudsman

Oversight agencies are calling on government agencies in the children’s system to act faster in the wake of a report published today which has found children are still no safer than when Malachi Subecz was killed by his carer in 2021.

Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor has released its second review of the implementation of the 2022 Poutasi Report recommendations,Towards a stronger safety net to prevent abuse of children, which examines the progress made by government and agencies on recommendations made by the late Dame Karen Poutasi aimed at improving the child protection system.

Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor Chief Executive Arran Jones says since Malachi’s death, another 24 children were killed by someone who was meant to be caring for them between December 2021 and June 2025.

“Many of these were babies, most were under the age of five. This is equivalent to a primary school classroom of 24 children, gone in just three and a half years.”

Our review has found the gaps identified by Dame Karen have not been closed, that Oranga Tamariki is still not always able to respond when it needs to keep a child safe, and children continue fall through the gaps and die.

Mr Jones released the review alongside the heads of the other two agencies responsible for oversight of the Oranga Tamariki system, the Children’s Commissioner and the Ombudsman.

Mr Jones says successive reviews going back at least two decades have pointed to the gaps in the system. Dame Karen noted her 2022 report findings were not new, and just last week Coroner Anderson also pointed to the similar themes and recommendations being made year after year, often with little evidence of substantive change taking place.

“The Government’s decision in October last year to accept all of Dame Karen’s recommendations, was a good first step. While there are some promising pilots, we need to see continued priority given to making sustained change.”

“Crucially, this review found that even if the gaps in the safety net are closed, a fundamental problem remains. That is the ability of Oranga Tamariki to respond when it needs to. Social workers need to be able to get in the car and go and check children are safe. We continue to hear from frontline staff across government and community organisations that this is not always happening when it should,” Mr Jones said.

Children’s Commissioner Dr Claire Achmad says the findings of this new review highlight the need for urgent, sustained action to make real change for children’s safety, off the back of the Government’s acceptance last year of Dame Dr Poutasi’s recommendations.

“The stark truth that 24 children – most of them babies – have died through abuse by the person meant to be caring for them must shock us into action. The lives of other children depend on it. Children and young people who have talked to me following the launch of our Dear Children campaign have emphasised to me how urgent the focus on children’s safety must be.

“Changes in our systems and communities must be made now to keep all our children safe. Between Dame Karen’s recommendations and last week’s recommendations from Coroner Anderson, the pathway for change is clear. Our nation’s children require the children’s system, and all of us at the community level, to actively work together to prioritise them and their safety. Because the fact is, all forms of child abuse and neglect are 100% preventable, but it takes all of us working together to prioritise children at every level of our society.”

Chief Ombudsman John Allen says the findings raise the important need for cross-agency collaboration – for health, education, welfare and justice – to keep working together for a better care and protection system. This is the type of shift that Dame Poutasi was calling for.”

“There are some ‘green shoots’ out there such as the new in-person hub pilot at the Oranga Tamariki national contact centre. Hub staff are helping to identify and address needs of at risk children when their sole parent enters prison. I’m also encouraged by what is happening in Whakatane, where Oranga Tamariki is working closely with a community-based provider Te Pūkāea o te Waiora. Community led organisations know the whānau well and are better equipped to intervene early and provide immediate support while at the same time taking pressure off the wider system.”

The Monitor’s review, Towards a stronger safety net to prevent abuse of children, is available on its website: https://aroturuki.govt.nz/reports/safety-net

Notes

The oversight system

The oversight of oranga tamariki system’s role is threefold, with a focus on the rights and wellbeing of children and young people known to Oranga Tamariki either through care and protection or youth justice.

Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor checks that organisations supporting and working with children and young people known to Oranga Tamariki are meeting their needs, delivering services effectively, improving outcomes and complying with the Oranga Tamariki Act and the associated regulations.

Mana Mokopuna – Children’s Commissioner is the independent advocate for the rights, best interests, wellbeing and outcomes of children and young people under the age of 25 who are or have been in the system, as well as being the independent advocate for all of New Zealand’s children.

The Ombudsman is the independent watchdog of Government, and receives complaints from children and young people (and their whānau and representatives) about decisions and actions affecting them in the system. The Ombudsman investigates concerns where needed.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/oversight-agencies-call-for-faster-change-to-keep-children-safe-following-second-review-by-independent-childrens-monitor/

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Police investigation continues into Kaihu dog attack

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are continuing to investigate a woman’s death in Kaihu after she was attacked by dogs yesterday.

Emergency services responded to the rural address off State Highway 12 at about 11.25am on 17 February.

Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei CIB, says: “This was a very upsetting and tragic event in which a woman has suffered unsurvivable injuries.

“I know the community will have a lot of questions; our investigation is still in the early stages and our focus is on establishing all the facts in this case.

“What we can say is that the three dogs involved live on the property, and the woman was visiting a person known to her when the attack occurred.”

Police have since notified the woman’s next of kin.

We can name her as 62-year-old Mihiata Te Rore, who is local to the community.

Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says the three dogs are currently with animal management.

“As part of our investigation, we would like to hear from anyone in the Kaihu community who has had issues with dogs roaming in the area,” he says.

If you can assist enquiries, please contact Police on 105 using the reference number 260217/8328.

ENDS

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/police-investigation-continues-into-kaihu-dog-attack/

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New Pharmac proposal for blood cancer patients

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister David Seymour and Health Minister Simeon Brown welcome Pharmac’s proposal to fund two new combination therapies for people with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), a type of blood cancer.

“Improving access to cancer medication in New Zealand is important to cancer patients, and their families. That’s why it has been a focus of this Government,” Mr Seymour says. 

Pharmac is proposing to fund venetoclax with ibrutinib, and venetoclax with obinutuzumab, as first line treatments from 1 May 2026.

“Pharmac heard from the Blood Cancer community and from clinical advisors that venetoclax with ibrutinib or obinutuzumab will make a big difference for people with CLL, especially when used at the beginning of treatment,” Mr Seymour says.

“While CLL isn’t curable, the right treatment means patients can live longer more fulfilling lives. Venetoclax with ibrutinib or obinutuzumab will help patients achieve longer lasting remission, and avoid the need for traditional chemotherapy. Two of these medicines will be available in pill form, which don’t require an IV drip and could mean fewer hospital visits

“Obinutuzumab will be the second cancer medicine available in private clinics. When Pharmac fund a new cancer treatment, people already paying for that treatment privately are forced to make a very difficult choice: spend their savings to continue private treatment undisrupted, or transfer to a public hospital. Patients told Pharmac the latter was hugely disruptive and caused significant stress during an immensely difficult period.

“People currently paying privately for these combinations could receive funded treatment in a private hospital, provided they met the funding criteria at the time they began treatment.” 

Mr Brown says the Government is committed to improving treatment and care for New Zealanders with cancer, including blood cancer.

“That’s why this Government has funded seven new cancer medicines that target blood cancer through Pharmac’s $604 million investment – expanding treatment options for patients and their families.

“This announcement means more Kiwis with blood cancer will have access to medicines that improve their quality of life and help them live longer, fuller lives.

“We are also significantly expanding stem cell transplant services for patients with blood cancers and related conditions, helping more people access critical, life-saving treatment sooner.

“Alongside investment in new medicines, our Faster Cancer Treatment target, and wider efforts to strengthen cancer services, we are focused on improving access, reducing delays, and ensuring people get the treatment they need, when they need it.”

Notes to editors: 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/new-pharmac-proposal-for-blood-cancer-patients/

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Pharmac proposes funding new treatments that could transform early care for people with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, a type of blood cancer

Source: PHARMAC

People in New Zealand living with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) could soon benefit from funded access to targeted treatments under a new proposal from Pharmac.

Pharmac is consulting on a change that would fund two new treatment combinations – venetoclax with ibrutinib, and venetoclax with obinutuzumab – for people with CLL. If approved, funding would begin on 1 May 2026.

“This proposal would give people access to powerful, targeted treatments immediately after their diagnosis,” says Pharmac’s Director Pharmaceuticals, Adrienne Martin. “We expect around 80-90 people each year to benefit from these combinations over the next five years.”

While these medicines are already used to treat blood cancers, they are not currently funded for use together as a first treatment option for CLL. Pharmac funded venetoclax in combination with rituximab, as well as venetoclax on its own, for CLL in 2019. 

Ibrutinib was funded in 2022 for people whose CLL has returned or has not responded to other treatments. In 2016, obinutuzumab was funded in combination with chlorambucil for some people with CLL.

“We’ve heard clearly from the blood cancer community and from our clinical advisors that these combinations could make a real difference when used early,” says Martin.

CLL is a slow‑growing blood cancer where the bone marrow makes too many abnormal white blood cells. While it cannot be cured, people can live well for long periods with the right treatment.

“Using these medicines together can help people achieve longer‑lasting remission and may reduce the need for traditional chemotherapy,” says Martin. “They could also mean fewer hospital visits, and an improved quality of life.”

Pharmac is seeking feedback from people with CLL, their families, health professionals, advocacy groups, and anyone else who would like to comment.

Consultation is open until 5pm, Wednesday 4 March. Feedback can be emailed to consult@pharmac.govt.nz or submitted using the online form linked in the consultation.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/pharmac-proposes-funding-new-treatments-that-could-transform-early-care-for-people-with-chronic-lymphocytic-leukaemia-a-type-of-blood-cancer/

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Do you recognise these people?

Source: New Zealand Police

Bay of Plenty Police are seeking to the public’s help to identify the three people pictured in these images.

We believe they may be able to assist us with our enquiries into a breach of the Mount Maunganui landslide cordon on Wednesday 11 February and Sunday 15 February.

If you are one of these people, or you recognise them, please update us through 105 either online or over the phone.

Please use reference number 260217/6366.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/do-you-recognise-these-people/

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EMA – Employment Law Changes Bring Certainty for Employers and Contractors

Source: EMA

Yesterday’s third reading of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill gives employers long-sought clarity on defining the status of contractors in the workplace, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
The EMA’s Head of Advocacy, Alan McDonald, said that wish for clarity predates the recent Uber court decision and gives employers a four-gateway test that they can apply in determining the status of contractors. In addition, for those working on contracts the new legislation clarifies what they can do within their contract, including the ability to work for other clients.
“The Bill also reverses an unpopular measure imposed by the previous government requiring employers to sign up new employees to union-based collectives and to provide information to new employees about joining unions,” says McDonald.
“In a time of declining union membership, this was seen by many of our employers as a ploy to help unions shore up their memberships, especially when employees then had to choose to opt out of that union membership after 30 days.
“The change to remediation measures is another positive for employers. The idea that reinstatement should be the first priority for remediation – if a hearing in the Employment Relations Authority (ERA) finds in favour of the employee – was anathema to many employers and had been imposed on them by the previous Employment Relations Amendment Bill.
“Generally, if the case has reached the authority, the relationship between the employer and employee is irretrievably broken – and expecting that employee to be amicably re-integrated into the workforce is unrealistic. It’s telling that of all the cases that went before the ERA, only about half a dozen employees were reinstated. They are the anomalies, not the norm.
“It also seems logical that employees who contribute to their own dismissal should have that behaviour taken into account when they later raise claims against the employer. It was counterintuitive that such behaviour was sometimes disregarded by the authority when awards for unjustified dismissal were made.”
“The other major change is that employees earning more than $200,000 will no longer be able to bring an unjustified dismissal claim.
“That threshold has risen from the previous $180,000, and it’s important to remember that it applies only to unjustified dismissal claims. The grounds for any other type of claim remain unchanged.
“These changes will help rebalance some of the current inequities facing employers,” says McDonald.
In today’s competitive and challenging workplace, employers need confidence and certainty that their employment relations practices are correct and within the law.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/ema-employment-law-changes-bring-certainty-for-employers-and-contractors/

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Housing Market – Subdued start to 2026 as NZ housing market begins rebuilding confidence – Cotality

Source: Cotality

New Zealand’s property market has started 2026 in a subdued fashion with little movement in prices and lower sales transactions despite improved affordability, more favourable mortgage rates and a gradually strengthening economy.

The Cotality NZ February Monthly Housing Chart Pack shows national median property values fell a modest -0.3% over the three months to January, taking values 17.5% below the 2022 peak. Auckland and Wellington continued to underperform, while markets such as Dunedin and Invercargill were more resilient in January. Parts of Canterbury also remain relatively stronger than elsewhere.

Cotality NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said the flat performance in property values may disappoint some vendors, but it offers improved opportunities for buyers.

“The predictability of current conditions is reassuring for buyers, who are continuing to adjust to the recent experience of stable prices and lower mortgage rates,” Mr Davidson said.

“With affordability gradually improving and employment conditions set to strengthen slowly this year, there’s a growing sense of cautious optimism, even if the recovery will be measured rather than sharp. Debt to income ratio caps remain important to watch.”
Cotality data shows first home buyers’ market share dipped in January from 28.3% in Q4 to 26.2%, however Mr Davidson said the number of deals occurring remained strong. “This was a slightly smaller share of a bigger pie.”
 
Mortgaged multiple property owners, including ‘Mum and Dad’ investors, were also a steady influence in the market likely due to lower interest rates and reduced cashflow top-ups on rental properties.

Softer sales in January likely a blip in upwards trend

January sales volumes, measured across both private deals and real estate agents, were -10.7% below the same month in 2025, marking only the third fall in the past 33 months.
Mr Davidson was unconcerned about the sluggish start to the year, because there’s a suspicion that some deals may have been rushed through into December (which saw strong growth), artificially subduing the figures for January.
“If you take December and January together, the upwards trend remained in place. We’d expect to see more sales growth activity in 2026 on the back of reduced mortgage rates and a recovering economy,” he said.
“Our Buyer Classification data also showed hints of more activity from relocating owner-occupiers, or movers. It’s early days and not a trend yet. But a slowly recovering economy could lift movers’ confidence to trade up, reinforcing the prospect of more housing activity this year.”

Rents reset after years of growth

New Zealand’s rental market has softened as net migration has fallen sharply and the number of properties available to rent remains elevated. With rents already stretched relative to incomes and wage growth easing, Mr Davidson said there is limited scope for further increases and that recent falls, while rare, reflect a reset after a period of very strong growth.

The MBIE bonds data shows in the three months to December the median national rent was 0.8% lower than the same period a year earlier. Wellington recorded one of the most significant changes in median rent, down about 10% to $582 a week. Hamilton and Tauranga have also recorded declines, while Auckland has edged slightly lower. Christchurch and Dunedin have held up better with modest growth recorded.
“Rents rose quickly when migration was surging and supply was tight. Now there are more listings, population growth has slowed, and tenants simply don’t have the capacity to keep absorbing large increases,” he said.
“It’s hard to see a sharp rebound from here. The more likely path is a period of flat or only very modest growth while the market adjusts.”

Confidence slowly rebuilding

As lower mortgage rates and improved affordability begin to provide some confidence for both buyers and sellers, Mr Davidson said it was likely behaviour would shift, activity would improve and 2026 would be a year of gradual growth for sales and prices.
“Affordability has improved to its best position in several years, mortgage rates have eased, and listings are gradually drifting lower. Those factors combined are helping to steady the market and should support a lift in sales activity through 2026,” he said.
“Other considerations include borrowers who are rolling off higher fixed rates onto cheaper loans, which will help free up cashflow for some households and should the labour market slowly gather steam as expected, that sets the scene for modest price growth rather than a sharp rebound.”
The Cotality NZ Monthly Housing Chart Pack, February 2025 provides the latest breakdown of sales, listings, mortgage lending activity, buyer classification, property values, rental trends, and economic indicators.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/housing-market-subdued-start-to-2026-as-nz-housing-market-begins-rebuilding-confidence-cotality/

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Employment Research – Strategic hiring, rising pay pressures and a borderless workforce – Robert Walters

Source: Robert Walters

Robert Walters identifies New Zealand’s key labour and salary trends for 2026

Auckland, New Zealand, 18th Feb 2026 - 2026 will be a year of strategic hiring, increased pressure on salaries, and rising workforce mobility across New Zealand, according to new research from global talent solutions partner Robert Walters.  

The findings come from its latest Salary Guide, launching today, which surveyed over 2,300 white-collar New Zealand professionals across 12 different industries.  

Shay Peters, CEO, Robert Walters Australia & New Zealand: ”The New Zealand labour market is showing a renewed sense of optimism, but caution remains. Businesses are hiring again, skills shortages persist, and employees are carefully weighing where they work, what they earn, and whether to relocate. This combination is reshaping the workforce: organisations face pressure to attract and retain talent, address capability gaps, and balance pay with cost-of-living concerns, while employees are increasingly strategic about career moves and mobility. How companies respond now will have a direct impact on productivity, growth, and their ability to secure and retain the talent they need for success in the future.” 

Key labour market trends  

Hiring rebounds, but jobseekers remain cautious after 2025 turmoil

Market confidence is gradual but strengthening, with 76% of New Zealand businesses planning to hire in 2026, up from 66% in 2025. 

Hiring demand varies regionally. Canterbury leads hiring intent at 78%, followed by Auckland (75%) and Wellington (72%). 

Despite this uplift in business confidence, employee mobility has cooled. 53% of New Zealand professionals are considering a role change this year, down from 63% in 2025, suggesting a more cautious workforce. 

Shay comments: ”Hiring intent has increased since last year, signalling that businesses are ready to move forward. However, employees are taking a more considered approach. From conversations we’ve been having with job seekers, we know the unstable condition of the 2025 labour market is making people concerned about job prospects in 2026. Economic uncertainty over the past year has made many professionals very risk-aware. The labour market is gradually rebalancing, rather than surging.” 

Salary growth remains modest as cost-of-living pressures persist

In 2025, 57% of New Zealand professionals received a pay rise, although most increases fell within the modest 2.5%-5% range, limiting their real impact. 

67% of New Zealand businesses intend to offer salary increases in 2026, while 56% of professionals expect one. 

42% of employees feel underpaid, but 83% of employers believe salaries are keeping pace with the cost of living, highlighting a perception gap. 

Salary dissatisfaction varies regionally. In Canterbury, 46% of professionals do not believe their salary matches the cost of living. In Auckland this stands at 42%, and in Wellington 39%. 

Shay comments: ”As businesses come out of last year’s restructures, organisations have an opportunity to reassess remuneration. Where salary increases are not feasible, employers must focus on career progression, flexibility, and skills development. It’s no secret the movement of New Zealand talent to Australia is well underway. Dissatisfaction around pay is a high retention risk, especially as overseas markets actively target New Zealand talent.” 

Skills shortages squeeze productivity across key sectors

Skills shortages remain critical, with 81% of New Zealand employers experiencing gaps over the past year. 

Regional pressure varies, with 52% of Auckland employers reporting shortages, followed by Wellington (49%) and Canterbury (39%). 

The most acute gaps are in industry-specific expertise (52%), digital and technology capability (37%), and leadership skills (31%) - these areas closely linked to productivity and organisational performance. 

Hiring challenges are compounded by unsuitable applicants (62%) and a lack of formal qualifications (53%). 

 Shay comments: ”Skills shortages are a severe productivity issue. When capability gaps persist, delivery slows and growth opportunities are missed. 

New Zealand organisations must take a long-term view, investing in leadership development, digital capability, and structured workforce planning. Skills gaps directly impact productivity and growth, and with more talent continuing to move to Australia, this challenge will intensify unless decisive action is taken now. Waiting for the market to correct itself is no longer a viable strategy in a competitive global talent landscape.” 

AI adoption accelerates, but concerns remain

AI integration is gaining momentum. 86% of New Zealand businesses are actively promoting AI, and 70% of employers say AI skills are important. 

Adoption at employee level is already high, with 69% using AI in their roles. However, 51% express concern about AI’s future impact on their job.

Shay comments: ”New Zealand businesses are embracing AI at pace, but adoption must be matched with transparency and training. The fact that over half of employees are concerned about AI’s future impact highlights the importance of clear communication and structured upskilling. 

At the speed AI is developing, it’s critical that soft skills like leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving are not lost but actively encouraged alongside new technology. 

Done right, AI can increase efficiency, boost productivity, and complement human talent, supporting the goals outlined in New Zealand’s 2025 AI Strategy for a productive, future-ready workforce.” 

Rising relocation trends are creating a borderless workforce

Mobility remains a defining feature of the New Zealand workforce. 58% of professionals are open to relocating for work. 

Interest varies regionally. In Auckland, 64% would consider relocating, compared with 53% in Wellington and 51% in Canterbury. 

Australia is the most attractive destination, with 65% naming it as their top choice. Domestically, 54% would consider relocating within New Zealand. Internationally, 23% would consider moving to the UK and 21% to Europe. 

The primary drivers of relocation are higher salaries (71%), better job opportunities (65%), lifestyle changes (53%), and cost of living (38%). 

Interest in Australians relocating to New Zealand has increased this year to 17% (up from 2% in 2025). 

Shay comments: ”The strength of interest in Australia underscores how interconnected the two labour markets have become. For many professionals, relocation is no longer aspirational, it is a strategic financial and career decision. 

New Zealand employers must recognise that they are competing not just locally, but internationally. Organisations that create compelling career pathways, competitive remuneration and flexible work models will be better positioned to retain talent in an increasingly borderless market.” 

About the Salary Guide: The Robert Walters 2026 Salary Guide provides a comprehensive overview of hiring intentions, salary trends, skills shortages, and workforce mobility across New Zealand. With insights from over 2,300 respondents, the guide highlights how businesses and employees are navigating an evolving labour market shaped by cost-of-living pressures, technological adoption, and mobility opportunities.

About Robert Walters:  

With more than 3,100 people in 30 countries, Robert Walters delivers recruitment consultancy, staffing, recruitment process outsourcing and managed services across the globe. From traditional recruitment and staffing to end-to-end talent management, our consultants are experts at matching highly skilled people to permanent, contract and interim roles across all professional disciplines. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/employment-research-strategic-hiring-rising-pay-pressures-and-a-borderless-workforce-robert-walters/

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BusinessNZ – Better employment law will support job growth

Source: BusinessNZ

The Employment Relations Amendment Bill will help restore balance, certainty and common sense to New Zealand’s employment framework, BusinessNZ says.
Director of Advocacy Catherine Beard says the Bill, which passed its third reading last night, addresses real-world issues facing employers and workers, and supports a more flexible and confident economy.
“Clear and workable employment settings are essential to business confidence and job growth. The amendments address areas of employment law which have been caught up in recent debate – including the status of contractors in platform-based work arrangements.
“For example, recent court cases have found that four Uber drivers are in-fact full time employees – due to their individual circumstances. The issue is platform work opportunities like the ones we have now wouldn’t have come about if the platform operators were made to shoulder all the costs and commitments associated with full time employment.
“If we want to keep new enterprise and the ensuing benefits consumers enjoy, we must make sure the model can continue to work. We hope the Government has done enough with this legislation to make it clear to the courts and potential claimants that they can’t keep trying to break the model.”
The Bill also amends situations where workers dismissed for serious misconduct have up until now been able to receive financial compensation through the personal grievance process.
“Most New Zealanders understand that serious wrongdoing at work comes with consequences. Removing automatic financial rewards, for instance by penalising the employer for small procedural errors, restores fairness and reinforces accountability.
“Overall, The Bill moves employment law closer to the realities of modern work, while maintaining core protections. This is something BusinessNZ has been advocating for, for a long time. These changes will reduce administrative requirements and provide greater flexibility for employers and employees when agreeing employment terms.”
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/businessnz-better-employment-law-will-support-job-growth/

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Home Finance – ASB announces Kāinga Ora First Home Loan offering to help Kiwi into their first home

Source: ASB

ASB Bank will now offer the Kāinga Ora First Home Loan, marking another step in the bank’s commitment to making home ownership accessible for more New Zealanders.

The First Home Loan is designed for people who can afford regular mortgage repayments but are finding it difficult to save a 20% deposit. Instead of the standard deposit, eligible buyers can purchase their first home with just 5%, with the loan underwritten by Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities.

ASB Executive General Manager Personal Banking Adam Boyd says “Home ownership is a cornerstone of financial wellbeing and security for many New Zealanders. This loan helps to get more people into their own homes without the challenge of saving a large deposit while managing everyday expenses, like rent.”

“By offering the First Home Loan, we’re helping to break down one of the biggest barriers to homeownership and opening doors for more New Zealanders to create their future and put down roots in their communities.”

“We’re committed to walking alongside our customers through one of the biggest financial decisions they’ll make. As well as the Kainga Ora First Home Loan, we have a team of trained specialist lenders to help customers on their journey,” says Adam Boyd.  

Eligible customers who have been contributing to KiwiSaver for at least three years may also be able to withdraw their savings to put towards their home purchase and will be eligible for ASB’s First Home Buyer cashback offer.

For more information about ASB’s First Home Loan offering and full eligibility criteria, visit here: https://www.asb.co.nz/home-loans-mortgages/buying-first-home/first-home-loan.html

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/home-finance-asb-announces-kainga-ora-first-home-loan-offering-to-help-kiwi-into-their-first-home/

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Weekly reports to the Minister for Mental Health

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

Publication date:

The Ministry of Health | Manatū Hauora provides a weekly report to the Minister for Mental Health containing regular updates on the Ministry’s Mental Health work programme and other key information.  The published weekly reports do not necessarily reflect the current status of the content.

In addition to the weekly reports published below, we also publish briefings and advice to the Minister for Mental Health, Minister of Health and Associate Ministers of Health, as well Cabinet material, including briefings to Ministers. These can be found on the Information releases page.

Some parts of this information release would not be appropriate to release and, if requested, would be withheld under the Official Information Act 1982 (the Act). Where this is the case, the relevant sections of the Act that would apply have been identified. Where information has been withheld, no public interest has been identified that would outweigh the reasons for withholding it.

Key redaction codes:

  • S 9(2)(a) to protect the privacy of natural persons.
  • S 9(2)(g)(i) to maintain the effective conduct of public affairs through the free and frank expression of opinions by or between or to Ministers and officers and employees of any public service agency.
  • S 6(a) as its release would likely prejudice the international relations of the Government of New Zealand.
  • S 9(2)(b)(ii) where its release would likely unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied the information.
  • S 9(2)(c) to avoid prejudice to measures to protect the health or safety of the public.
  • S 9(2)(h) to maintain legal professional privilege.
  • S 9(2)(j) to enable a Minister or any public service agency to carry on negotiations without prejudice or disadvantage (including commercial and industrial negotiations).
  • S 9(2)(f)(iv) to maintain the constitutional conventions that protect the confidentiality of advice tendered by Ministers and officials.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/weekly-reports-to-the-minister-for-mental-health/

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Five youth charged following aggravated robbery, Napier

Source: New Zealand Police

Five youth are before the court following an aggravated robbery in Westshore, Napier.

On Monday 16 February, Police were notified of an aggravated robbery at a commercial premises on Charles Street about 4.40pm.

Three people allegedly entered the premises and stole a number of items before fleeing in a vehicle containing two others. All took steps to conceal their identities.

No injuries were reported however the owner of the premises is understandably shaken.

The vehicle was later located abandoned on Alexander Avenue, and has been seized for a forensic examination.

Following enquiries into the incident, including information provided by members of the public, Police identified five alleged offenders.

Yesterday evening, Police executed a search warrant at a Napier address where four alleged offenders were taken into custody.

During the search warrant, Police also located evidence relating to the aggravated robbery. including clothing worn by the alleged offenders.

The fifth alleged offender was located and taken into custody a short time later.

Acting Hawke’s Bay Area Investigations Manager, Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Karli Whiu says he is pleased with this result.

“I would like to thank all staff involved for their great collective work in bringing this to a quick resolution.

“Much like the community, Police have no tolerance for this type of offending, and we will continue to work hard to hold offenders to account,” Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Whiu says.

The youth are due to appear in Napier Youth Court today, jointly charged with aggravated robbery and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

Further charges have not been ruled out.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/five-youth-charged-following-aggravated-robbery-napier/

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Arrest made following landslide cordon breach, Mount Manganui

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Western Bay of Plenty Area Commander, Inspector Clifford Paxton: 

Bay of Plenty Police have arrested and charged a man following a breach at the Mount Maunganui landslide site cordon early this morning.

At around 2.30am, Police were notified that a man had allegedly entered the Mount Maunganui landslide zone which is cordoned off for the public’s safety.

Police coordinated a response with Māori Wardens, who are watching over the site, and a 20-year-old man was arrested.

He is due in Tauranga District Court on Tuesday 24 February, charged with breaching the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act and careless driving.

Police remind the public that the landslide site is a restricted area as it remains unstable and poses significant public safety concerns.

The area is cordoned off with clear signage – there is no excuse to breach this.

Any suspicious behaviour around cordoned, or restricted, areas should be reported to Police immediately by calling 111, if it is happening now, or through 105 if it is after the fact.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/arrest-made-following-landslide-cordon-breach-mount-manganui/

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Annual food prices increase 4.6 percent – Selected price indexes: January 2026 – Stats NZ news story and information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/annual-food-prices-increase-4-6-percent-selected-price-indexes-january-2026-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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Births to under-25s decline to record low proportion – Births and deaths: Year ended December 2025 (including abridged period life table) – Stats NZ news story and information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/18/births-to-under-25s-decline-to-record-low-proportion-births-and-deaths-year-ended-december-2025-including-abridged-period-life-table-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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Global Neighbors @Yiwu: Turning a Foreign Land into Home

Source: Media Outreach

YIWU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 February 2026 – As red lanterns light up the streets and alleys, Yiwu is welcoming spring in a unique way. For the international community living here, the city has transformed from a foreign commercial hub into a warm “hometown.”

This year, three expatriates shared their unique Chinese New Year experiences in Yiwu.

For Lina from Ukraine, the festival is a visual feast of “Chinese Red.” Having lived in Yiwu for five years, she immerses herself in local traditions, shopping for “Get-Rich Horse” dolls for the upcoming Year of the Horse and buying traditional red outfits to take back to her home country.

For He Lvsheng, the holiday offers a chance to find a comfortable rhythm. While he notes that the New Year isn’t celebrated with the same intensity in his home country, in Yiwu, he enjoys the festive atmosphere by buying food and toys for friends while maintaining his daily fitness routine.

For foreign businessman Weihua, the Spring Festival is about unity. He celebrates by pasting spring couplets with his Chinese employees and handing out “Hongbao” (red envelopes), turning business partners into family.

From the scent of ink on couplets to the shared joy of the holidays, Yiwu’s inclusive environment allows entrepreneurs and residents from around the world to strive, live, and turn a foreign land into home.

Hashtag: #Yiwu

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/2026/02/17/global-neighbors-yiwu-turning-a-foreign-land-into-home/

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Government to clarify welfare and ACC payments

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is introducing legislation to clarify the law on the impact of ACC payments on welfare entitlement and ensure the process is fair.

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says the Social Security (Accident Compensation and Calculation of Weekly Income) Amendment Bill will: 

  • confirm the longstanding policy intent underpinning MSD’s approach to charging income, including income from ACC
  • authorise MSD to retrospectively consider a person a non-beneficiary when their backdated ACC payment reduces their benefit to zero for the applicable period, as is current practice
  • reflect the principles of a targeted welfare system; where the more income you earn, the less assistance you receive from the state
  • provide certainty in the law and remove the potential for interpretations of the law that go further than the policy intent, creating inequities between different cohorts of people receiving ACC payments.
  • people who receive ACC and welfare assistance at the same time
  • people who receive welfare assistance while they wait for ACC to decide on their entitlement 

“There are two main cohorts of ACC compensation recipients in the welfare system,” Louise Upston says. 

“Under the current situation, as interpreted by the courts, the latter group, who receive lump sum payments, are treated more generously than the former. 

“They are in effect receiving two forms of income support to address one need. This also means these clients can remain eligible for assistance which only beneficiaries receive, such as the Winter Energy Payment. 

“This would not result in fair treatment between these groups and isn’t in line with the policy intent. 

“The Government has a duty to fix this situation and clarify the law, so it aligns with the longstanding intent of policy,” Louise Upston says. 

Notes to editors: 

  • The bill will be referred to the Social Services and Community Select Committee for one week
  • The need to amend the Social Security Act comes out of a High Court case known as ‘B’ and an earlier decision by the Social Security Appeal Authority, in which a client received a backdated lump sum payment of weekly ACC compensation and MSD sought to recover supplementary assistance paid for the period covered by the ACC payment

The retrospective effect of the legislation will not apply to a small number of cases that have been filed with the Social Security Appeal Authority or the Courts before 2pm on the day of the introduction of the Bill.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/government-to-clarify-welfare-and-acc-payments/

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Dark day for working New Zealanders as the Employment Relations Amendment Bill passes

Source: NZCTU

The passing of the Employment Relations Amendment Bill is a dark day for working New Zealanders, says New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey.

“This law strips working Kiwis of long-held and fundamental rights.

“Employers will now be empowered to misclassify employees as contractors, stripping from them key entitlements including the minimum wage, sick pay, and Kiwisaver. This threatens entire workforces, particularly in industries where work is already low-paid and precarious.

“With this change, National, ACT, and New Zealand First are once again prioritising profit over people. The National-led Government is shamelessly giving in to Uber and other multinational companies whose business models rely on insecure work.

“The legislation also makes a mockery of the personal grievance system. Workers now face the absurd situation where they could prove in court they were unjustifiably dismissed but not be eligible for remedies for this injustice.

“This Bill was strongly opposed during the select committee process. The Government was warned by employment experts and working Kiwis that it will dramatically undermine job security. It has refused to listen.

“Everyone deserves good work – work that is well-paid, secure, and provides employees with minimum rights and conditions. This Bill does the opposite, eroding fair pay, job security, and basic protections.

“National have let Uber and the ACT Party set the agenda for employment law in this country. They need to grow a backbone and stand up for the interests of New Zealand workers,” said Grey.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/17/dark-day-for-working-new-zealanders-as-the-employment-relations-amendment-bill-passes/