Category: New Zealand Government

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Improved access to secondary legislation

Source: New Zealand Government

A bill to improve access to secondary legislation and digitise government services has passed its final reading in Parliament today, Attorney-General Judith Collins says.

“The Legislation Amendment Bill will make it easier for New Zealanders to find, use, and understand the law that they are required to follow,” Ms Collins says.

“Secondary legislation includes a range of regulations, orders, rules, and notices. Currently, it is difficult to access as it can be published in a variety of places, or sometimes not published at all.

“This makes it harder for businesses and individuals to understand their obligations, increases compliance costs, and works against our goals for a modern digital government.

“The bill will standardise publication practices by making it a requirement for all agencies to publish secondary legislation on their website, or another approved site.

“The redeveloped New Zealand Legislation website will provide a single point of access to all this secondary legislation, no matter who publishes it. 

“This one-stop shop for legislation will make it simpler and faster for the New Zealand public to access the law.

“I’m excited to share that the new website is now live for all New Zealanders to use.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/improved-access-to-secondary-legislation/

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Partnership driving hospitality momentum

Source: New Zealand Government

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has today highlighted the importance of the hospitality industry to New Zealand’s economy, while speaking at the 2026 Hospitality Summit.  

“Hospitality is a huge contributor to our economy and workforce, helping drive over $9 billion in GDP and employing people across the country,” Louise Upston says.

“Our hospitality businesses shape how visitors experience New Zealand and what they remember long after they leave. 

“Since the inaugural Hospitality Summit in 2024, we’ve worked constructively with industry, responding to issues they’ve raised. We’ve brought the Michelin Guide to New Zealand, invested in regional tourism promotions, supported more major events across the country, and are assessing the regulatory environment through the Hospitality Sector Review.

“This year’s Summit was a chance for industry and government to reflect on progress to date and focus on practical next steps that support a strong, resilient hospitality sector. 

“The progress made demonstrates the positive impacts on economic growth when business and government work together on fixing the basics and building the future. 

“I want to acknowledge the continued work of Hospitality New Zealand, the Restaurant Association and hospitality businesses across the country, and look forward to discussing their ideas and opportunities for ongoing industry success.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/partnership-driving-hospitality-momentum/

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Crown progresses Ngāti Ruapani settlement at pace

Source: New Zealand Government

The first reading for the Ngāti Ruapani mai Waikaremoana Claims Settlement Bill has passed today, just weeks after the deed of settlement was signed, Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

“It is good we can move forward with the Ngāti Ruapani settlement, after signing their Deed of Settlement in Tūwai on 25 February. 

“It was an honour to welcome and host the people of Ngāti Ruapani today, so that they could witness Parliament passing the first reading of their Bill.

“After six years of negotiations with Ngāti Ruapani, this is a significant and long-awaited milestone to reach.

“No settlement can fully compensate for the injustices of the past, which Ngāti Ruapani experienced in full, but this settlement represents a way forward. I hope it will contribute to the support of future generations of Ngāti Ruapani to come.” 

Key elements of the redress include:

  • $24 million financial redress.
  • Undivided half share of Patunamu Forest Ltd.
  • Four commercial redress and two cultural redress properties.
  • Approximately 12,000 hectares of land added into Te Urewera. 

Ngāti Ruapani are based in and around south Waikaremoana. A copy of the Deed of Settlement is available online at: Te Tari Whakatau – Ngāti Ruapani Settlement Documents. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/crown-progresses-ngati-ruapani-settlement-at-pace/

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Government supports Pacific cultures at Polyfest  

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing in the world’s largest Pacific festival, Polyfest, supporting Pacific culture, young people and families, says Pacific Peoples Minister Dr Shane Reti. 

 

“Polyfest, which celebrated 50 years last year, is an important celebration of Pacific culture and youth. It showcases the pride and strength of our Pacific young people. Their leadership through culture, strengthens families, communities and New Zealand. The Government is proud to support this event again in 2026 with $60,000 from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples,” Dr Reti says.  

 

“I’m pleased we are making this investment because a vibrant culture is important to Pacific communities, but so is their safety, their children’s education and health, and quality of life overall.  

“The Government is helping Pacific people by fixing the basics and building the future, including making them safer with 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime and repeat youth offending down 22 per cent. We have also put in $1 million to support Pacific Wardens,” says Dr Reti.  

“Pacific kids are doing better in school with children meeting expected levels in phonics improving from 27 per cent up to 43 per cent and childhood immunisation rates at 82.6 per cent. More than 300 Pacific students are building a future through Toloa STEM scholarships. 

“Quality of life is being improved with significant investment into Pacific housing, including Our Whare Our Fale delivering up to 300 homes, plus 41 homes through the Pacific Affordable Homes Fund. Alo Vaka has supported more than 300 Pacific people into better paying jobs, while inflation has more than halved and mortgage rates are down. 

“Maintaining family connections is also important to Pacific people. The Government is making it more affordable with visitor visas for Pacific citizens travelling to New Zealand, dropping in June. Through these initiatives, the Government is uplifting Pacific peoples across the country,” Dr Reti says. 

The 51st annual Polyfest, including the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, and Diversity stages, will run from 18 to 21 March 2026 at Manukau Sports Bowl, with the theme:  

Ko au ko te Taiao! Ko te Taiao ko au! He Toa Taiao Taiohi nō te Moana nui a Kiwa, āke, ake, ake! The environment lives in me, as I live in it – a ‘Pacific Youth Eco-Warrior’ for generations to come. 

Te Paparewa Māori (formerly called the Māori stage) will be held from 30 March to 2 April 2026 at Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/government-supports-pacific-cultures-at-polyfest/

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New appointment to the TEC Board

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Vocational Education, Penny Simmonds, has announced the appointment of Scott Haines JP to a vacancy on the Board of the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC). 

“I am pleased to confirm the appointment of Mr Haines to this role. He brings significant school leadership experience, which is important for the Board of the TEC to have,” Ms Simmonds says.

“Mr Haines’ appointment follows the resignation of Yvonne Browning MNZM at the end of 2025 for personal reasons. I would like thank Mrs Browning for her valuable contribution.”

Mr Haines is Principal of Burnside High School in Christchurch, one of New Zealand’s largest secondary schools. He has also been principal of Motueka High School and Waimea College in the Tasman region.

Mr Haines has made significant contributions at a national level as Vice-President of the Secondary Principals’ Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) and as member of the Professional Advisory Group for NCEA, a Ministerial Forum on Raising Student Achievement and NZQA advisory panels.

“The TEC has a statutory role to facilitate and strengthen connections between schools, employers and tertiary education organisations. Mr Haines’ expertise in this area will be valuable to its Board,” Ms Simmonds says. 

“Scott’s experience and skills will ensure the TEC’s investment in and steering of the tertiary education and training system, and its provision of careers services, are directly informed by expertise from the schooling sector. 

“The Government’s new Tertiary Education Strategy, which the TEC is responsible for giving effect to, has a strong focus on access, participation and achievement to ensure all learners gain the skills needed to achieve strong careers. Mr Haines’ knowledge will help the TEC deliver the workforces New Zealand needs to succeed.”

Mr Haines’ appointment is for a three-year term, beginning 1 July 2026. This reflects his availability for Board meetings in the coming months, including SPANZ commitments. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/new-appointment-to-the-tec-board-2/

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Building the future of coastal shipping resilience

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is committed to building the resilience of New Zealand’s coastal shipping network, through six critical investments to deliver a more productive economy and ensure essential supplies can reach communities in times of crisis.

Associate Transport Minister James Meager has confirmed $400,000 towards a national digital platform to improve supply chain efficiency and coordination across ports, in partnership with PortConnect.

“Historically, the siloed nature of New Zealand’s port operations has resulted in limited ability to anticipate, respond and adapt to disruptive events. This funding will address the fragmented coordination of berthing windows and vessel visits,” Mr Meager says.

“Recent weather events have reinforced the value of clear, shared information when under pressure. Our ports are an economic lifeline to the outside world. If we are to grow productivity, we need greater resilience to external impacts on the way we trade.”

This is the final investment from the Government’s $30 million Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund, which also includes:

Container-handling equipment in Gisborne to support rapid freight movement
Modifications to the Rangitata coastal vessel to improve self-sufficiency in cargo handling
Reconstruction and return to service of the Greymouth wharf
Training berths on domestic vessels to give maritime students the sea time required to qualify as mariners
A cost-effective dredging capability, built in Northland, to support smaller regional ports

“Coastal shipping is a critical piece of our freight network, moving large and heavy cargo such as containers, cement and aggregate efficiently and safely. It is also a low-emissions mode of transport and has repeatedly proven its value following natural disasters,” Mr Meager says.

“After Cyclone Gabrielle, coastal shipping delivered essential supplies to Tairāwhiti when land routes were severely constrained. These six investments build on that experience and help ensure we are better prepared for future events in practical, tangible ways.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/building-the-future-of-coastal-shipping-resilience/

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Common sense proposal will benefit patients and save money

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government will shift responsibility for funding ambulance medicines from Health New Zealand (HNZ) and ACC to Pharmac because it will improve medicine procurement processes, and save the health system money, Associate Health Minister David Seymour and Health Minister Simeon Brown say.

Consultation is now open on proposed changes to support the shift in responsibility. 

“This proposal means no matter where a patient is located, their ambulance and hospital will have access to the same emergency medicines they need, and Pharmac can get those medicines cheaper,” Mr Seymour says.

“Currently HNZ and ACC fund ambulance services, individual ambulance providers then purchase the medicines they need to treat their patients. This leads to some ambulance providers funding certain medicines which their local hospital does not, and vice versa. Patients need access to high quality continuous care, no matter where they are located. 

“This will benefit patients. It will improve the continuity of care provided to patients by ensuring ambulance providers and hospital staff have access to the same medicines.

“Pharmac’s proposal will also create a single nationally consistent list of medicines funded for use by emergency ambulance service providers. This helps ambulance providers, regardless of their location, to understand what is funded. 

“When it comes to medicine procurement, Pharmac are the experts. Transferring responsibility to Pharmac means we can get the best deals for medicines. Pharmac can leverage supply chains, utilise buying power, and take a more coordinated approach to funding medicines used in emergency care. 

“This proposal will also realise savings. Pharmac can utilise existing national agreements, including access to the best prices, reduced duplication of procurement activity, and the supply protections built into Pharmac’s commercial arrangements. 

“When you spend better you can afford more. These savings mean Pharmac could fund some emergency medicines that ambulance services haven’t previously been able to afford.”

Mr Brown says patients should be able to access the emergency treatment they need regardless of where they live.

“This change will help ensure patients transferred by ambulance to public hospitals have access to the same medicines, supporting better continuity of care between ambulance crews and hospital teams.

“Funding ambulance medicines through Pharmac, alongside the medicines it already manages for the health system, should also save time and resources for providers, making it easier for them to focus on frontline care.

“We are committed to ensuring New Zealanders can access the care they need when they need it. This change will support more consistent treatment across the country so people can access the same emergency medicines regardless of their location or emergency care provider.”

Consultation on the proposal opens on Thursday March 12 and closes at 5pm on Thursday April 2. If the proposal is finalised the changes will be implemented from Wednesday July 1, 2026. Have your say here: Consultation: Updating the pharmaceutical schedule for ambulance medicines

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/common-sense-proposal-will-benefit-patients-and-save-money/

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Growing the frontline workforce in Wairoa

Source: New Zealand Government

A Rural Training Hub to grow the frontline rural health workforce will be established in the Wairoa District, Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey announced today.

“This second Rural Training Hub shows the Government’s commitment to fixing the basics and building the future for the one in five New Zealanders who live in rural communities. Kiwis should have access to timely, quality care, wherever they live,” Mr Doocey says.

“Rural Training Hubs are designed to deliver exactly that. They aim to attract and retain frontline health workers in rural communities by coordinating clinical placements, training pathways, and pastoral support. This will make it easier for doctors, nurses, midwives, and allied health professionals to live, work, and train locally.

“To bring healthcare closer to home, we also need to bring health worker education closer to home,” Mr Doocey says.

The Wairoa District Hub is the second of four hubs being rolled out nationally, following the first in South Taranaki. It will be co-designed with local communities, iwi, and health providers.

“One of the ways we can lift barriers to getting frontline workers settled in our rural communities is ensuring people feel connected to where they live. These coordinators will help people settle into life in Wairoa, whether that’s finding housing or helping find employment.”

Each hub will have a dedicated programme lead responsible for facilitating connections between local health services, universities, and training providers so students and staff can learn and work in the community.

The Hubs build on the work already underway to grow the rural health workforce. This includes the new medical school at the University of Waikato and the Rural Medical Immersion Programme, which places fifth-year medical students at local rural GP practices.

“These Hubs help ensure rural New Zealanders have access to timely, quality, and reliable care close to home.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/growing-the-frontline-workforce-in-wairoa/

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Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation board chair reappointed

Source: New Zealand Government

John Williamson has been reappointed as Chair of the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation Board, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

The Board manages the investment of government contributions to the NZ Super Fund and administers the Elevate NZ Venture Capital Fund.

John Williamson’s reappointment – for a further two years from October 1 this year – reflects his strong board leadership, Nicola Willis says.

“It also maintains stability and continuity during the pre-election period and beyond, particularly as five of the seven board members are in their first term.

“Mr Williamson brings extensive experience in senior leadership, private equity, and governance, including eight years as managing director of former NZX-listed Hellaby Holdings Ltd. He has held diverse governance roles and legal expertise in competition and Māori resource law.

“This reappointment underscores the Government’s commitment to ensuring the Guardians continue to deliver robust investment performance and fulfil their mandate to grow New Zealand’s sovereign wealth funds for future generations.”

Mr Williamson has been a board member since 2016, and Chair since March 2024.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/guardians-of-new-zealand-superannuation-board-chair-reappointed/

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PM to visit Samoa and Tonga

Source: New Zealand Government

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will depart for Samoa and Tonga on Sunday, reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to two of the closest members of our Pacific family.

“Both countries are integral to who we are as a nation. With more than 300,000 Samoan and Tongan New Zealanders, the family connection is woven into the fabric of our society,” Mr Luxon says.

The visit marks New Zealand’s first comprehensive engagement with the new governments in both countries, with the Prime Minister looking forward to his meetings with the new leaders and their Cabinets in each capital.

“Through our longstanding ties, we have built enormous trust between our nations. I’m looking forward to hearing my new colleagues’ points of view, and then agreeing how we can work together to build communities that are more prosperous and safer from threats like drugs.”

The visit also represents an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy of the connections between our countries, whether that’s sport, music or business. The Prime Minister will be joined by senior business leaders and community members, led by Savae Sir Michael Jones and Rachel Afeaki.

The Prime Minister will also be joined by Minister for Pacific Peoples Dr Shane Reti, Police Minister Mark Mitchell (in Samoa), Tim van de Molen MP, Jenny Salesa MP and Teanau Tuiono MP.  

The delegation departs Auckland on Sunday 15 March and returns on Wednesday 18 March.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/pm-to-visit-samoa-and-tonga/

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Further improvements to Pacific visitor visa settings

Source: New Zealand Government

Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Immigration Minister Erica Stanford have announced further changes to visitor visa settings for Pacific people, making it more affordable for Pacific visitors to travel to New Zealand. 

“From 1 June this year, the total cost of applying for a visitor visa for Pacific nationals will drop from $216 to $161, for a 12-month period, as part of New Zealand’s ongoing work to deepen Pacific connections,” Mr Peters says.

“This is a practical update to visitor visa settings that reduces cost, supports easier travel and helps strengthen the relationships that matter most.”

“These updates build on earlier improvements, such as longer visa durations – from one year to two years with multiple entries – along with reduced processing times, new escalation processes to support urgent travel, and the current visa‑free trial for Pacific travellers coming from Australia,” Ms Stanford says.

“Together, these changes make it easier and cheaper for Pacific visitors to come to New Zealand, while ensuring the system remains clear, predictable and secure.  The Government will review the impacts in a year’s time, before deciding what happens next.”

Further details on eligibility and timing will be confirmed in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit Immigration New Zealand’s website:  www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/news-centre/visitor-visa-fees-temporarily-reduced-for-pacific-nationals/ 

Media contacts: 

Mr Peters: John Tulloch +64 21 868 943

Ms Stanford: Michael van der Kwast +64 21 875 347

Notes to editor:

This change applies to people visiting from American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
As part of the Realm of New Zealand, people from the Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau do not need visas to travel to New Zealand. Neither do citizens and permanent residents from Australia, given the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement.
People from New Caledonia and French Polynesia are French citizens and already eligible for visa-free travel. While people from Pitcairn Islands may be eligible for the reduced fee, as British citizens they are also already eligible for visa-free travel.
Visitor visas for Pacific Islands Forum nationals moved to a 24‑month multi‑entry default from 6 July 2025.
A 12‑month trial, from 3 November 2025, allows Pacific passport holders travelling from Australia on a valid Australian visa to enter New Zealand visa‑free with an NZeTA for visits of up to three months.

These changes follow two earlier updates announced in April 2025:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/further-improvements-to-pacific-visitor-visa-settings/

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Moa Point Crown Review Team appointed

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has appointed the Crown Review Team which will give Wellingtonians clarity about what went wrong at Moa Point wastewater treatment plant, Local Government Minister Simon Watts says.

Former Watercare chief executive and current chair of the Water Services Authority Raveen Jaduram will lead the team. He will be joined by experienced lawyers Helen Atkins and Michael Weatherall, and senior infrastructure engineer Garry Macdonald.

“Wellingtonians deserve clear answers about what led to the catastrophic failure at Moa Point and the assurance that it will not happen again,” Mr Watts says.

“The review team’s work will provide that certainty by investigating what led to the failure and what must change to prevent it from happening again.

“It has been appointed to both Wellington City Council and to Wellington Water Ltd in a parallel process to ensure we have a comprehensive and coordinated investigation. While they are required to operate under two terms of references, they will function as a unified team to avoid duplication and deliver clear answers about what happened.”

The Crown Review Team’s term runs until 31 August 2026, and it will produce a final report before then.

“We expect to receive an interim report before Wellington’s water assets – including the Moa Point plant – are due to transfer to the new council water organisation Tiaki Wai Limited on 1 July,” Mr Watts says.

Following consideration of the final report, Mr Watts will report back to Cabinet on any recommendations from the investigations. 

“I am mindful that the Review Team’s work is likely to coincide with the Greater Wellington Regional Council’s (GWRC) own investigation as the environmental regulator under the Resource Management Act,” Mr Watts says.

“It is my expectation that the Crown Review Team’s activity will not constrain the local authority’s regulatory activity.  

“My intention is to publicly release the findings as soon as possible while managing any risk of prejudicing the investigation or any enforcement action by Greater Wellington Regional Council or any commercial or legal action or claims.”

Links to the Terms of Reference:

Wellington City Council Terms of Reference: https://gazette.govt.nz/notice/id/2026-go1237  
Wellington Water Terms of Reference: https://gazette.govt.nz/notice/id/2026-go1238/  

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/moa-point-crown-review-team-appointed/

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Innovative digital labelling trial to progress

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government will move ahead with a digital labelling trial, another step towards removing barriers to consumer choice and competition.

It follows consultation at the end of last year on the trial, a requirement under the Food Act.

“Food retailers have told us labelling products can be a costly barrier to entry or expansion into the New Zealand market.

This trial provides an opportunity to test innovative digital labelling technologies and allows more flexibility to potential new entrants,” Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis says.

“For smaller players and new entrants in particular, these costs would often need to be passed on to customers, resulting in higher prices that make it harder for them to compete.

“The end goal is a better deal for Kiwi consumers. It’s with that front of mind that the Government has decided to proceed with the trial.”

An Expression-of-Interest process is now open, seeking participants for a 12-month digital labelling trial for approved retailers.

Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard says the trial will ensure robust food safety protections remain in place.

“A small number of approved retailers will temporarily be exempt from existing physical labelling requirements under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code. It will only apply to lower-risk, pre-packaged imported foods.

“Products in the trial will have physical labels that comply with rules in countries with strong food regulatory systems, similar to New Zealand’s, and all the information that Kiwis are used to seeing on labels will be available digitally.” 

All other retailers will continue to display the normal physical labels during the trial. 

“Food safety and suitability remain non-negotiable during the trial, so all products must comply with the Food Act 2014, the compositional requirements of the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code, and all other relevant legislation.”

To ensure regulatory oversight, New Zealand Food Safety will assess potential participants, run the trial, provide guidance and monitor performance.

“The world is moving toward using this sort of innovative technology. New Zealand’s trial of digital labelling will inform broader consideration of the role of digital labelling for food, by Food Standards Australia New Zealand” says Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard.

“The trial will help us understand how the system could work to ensure safety while providing business and consumers with more choice, without compromising the standards New Zealanders rightly expect.”

Locations of retail trial participants will be provided once they have been selected.

More information on the trial, including information for prospective trial participants, can be found here.

Submissions to the Expression of Interest process close on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/innovative-digital-labelling-trial-to-progress/

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First MRI scanner for Wairarapa Hospital

Source: New Zealand Government

A new purpose-built facility at Wairarapa Hospital will house a new MRI scanner as part of a wider investment to strengthen diagnostic services, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Wairarapa is currently the only district in the lower North Island without its own MRI scanner. Once operational, this $3.7 million scanner will significantly improve access to diagnostic services for the Wairarapa community,” Mr Brown says.

“Improving access to timely radiology services across the lower North Island is a priority, and this scanner will help ease pressure on existing MRI services in surrounding areas.”

There are an estimated 1700 MRI scans undertaken each year for public patients who reside in the Wairarapa and southern Midcentral districts, with demand expected to grow by 6 to 7.5 per cent annually. Currently, however, those patients must travel to Hutt Valley, Wellington, Palmerston North, or private providers to receive those scans, and face waits of around 72 days.

“Having an MRI scanner on-site means patients will be able to access scans closer to home, while helping reduce wait times toward the 42-day target. Faster access to imaging will mean earlier diagnosis, quicker specialist decision making, and earlier access to treatment.”

Mr Brown says the Government is focused on delivering modern infrastructure that keeps patients at the centre of care. 

“By expanding local diagnostic capacity, we’re supporting our targets for faster cancer treatment, shorter wait times for first specialist assessment, and shorter waits for elective procedures.

“Establishing MRI services in Wairarapa will make it easier for patients to get the scans they need, reduce unnecessary travel, and strengthen the resilience of health services across the region.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/first-mri-scanner-for-wairarapa-hospital/

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New pay deal for primary teachers welcomed

Source: New Zealand Government

Education Minister Erica Stanford welcomes the decision by Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche to enable school boards to offer primary teachers new pay agreements. The move benefits around 10,000 primary teachers who are not bound by the NZEI Primary Teachers’ Collective Agreement.

“From today, school boards will be able to offer primary teachers, who are not part of the union and employed on individual employment agreements (IEAs), new agreements, which will allow them to receive pay increases of up to 4.7 percent within 12 months. These increases are comparable to those accepted by their secondary counterparts last year,” Ms Stanford says.

“Teachers have right to a contract and is fair and reasonable that nearly a third of primary school teachers, who are not part of the NZEI, should be offered a contract so they can receive the pay increases that the Government has already offered. 

“This would equate to approximately $50 to $76 each week and is pay that non-union teachers could already be receiving if not impacted by the NZEI’s ongoing approach to bargaining.

“I know the Commissioner did not come by this decision lightly. However, he has made his concerns on the delays in primary teacher bargaining very clear. 

“New IEAs will be available today through school boards for the primary teachers who are not a member of the NZEI Te Riu Roa union or bound by the NZEI Primary Teachers’ Collective Agreement. 

“Sir Brian will continue to negotiate with the NZEI in good faith, and everyone is hopeful the bargaining process will result in a new collective agreement being ratified for teachers who are bound by the NZEI Primary Teachers’ Collective Agreement. In the interim, the priority is to ensure that at least 30 percent of primary teachers can lock in pay increases without further delay.” 

Media contact: Michael van der Kwast +64 21 875 347

Notes to editors: New Individual Employment Agreement for Primary Teachers

  • Pay increase of 4.5% – 4.7% within 12 months:
    • Teachers on the top two steps of the scale receive a cumulative pay increase of 4.7% by January 2027. This is comprised of a 2.5% increase on 20 March 2026 and a further 2.1% increase on 28 January 2027.
    • Teachers moving up the scale (on steps 1-8) will continue to receive annual step increases along with a 4.5-4.6% pay increase by 28 January 2027. This is comprised of a 2.5% increase on 20 March 2026, and a further 2% increase on 28 January 2027.
  • Management Units Increase to $5,250: All unit holders will receive an increase to the value of salary units from $4,500 to $5,250 (16.7% increase to the rates that units are paid).  

All primary teachers who accept the new IEA will receive a cumulative pay increase of at least 4.5% on printed rates in the Base Salary Scale from the start of the 2027 school year. 

This means teachers who are at the top of the pay scale will see their base salary increase to $107,886 per annum from the beginning of next school year, and this is before units and allowances are included. For the many teachers who hold one or more than units, this increase will be even higher.  

Primary teachers who hold at least one unit will receive an overall 5.1% to 5.4% salary increase within 11 months of settlement.

Budget 2025 has already provided for teaching council certification costs to be met until 2028, saving teachers up to $550 per renewal.  

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/new-pay-deal-for-primary-teachers-welcomed/

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NZ contributes changes to Pacific fisheries

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand has secured orange roughy catch limits in the South Pacific for another two years at a Pacific regional fisheries meeting, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

The proposal brought to the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) by New Zealand and Australia, was adopted without opposition from other member countries.

“The adoption of New Zealand’s proposal to retain current levels of orange roughy catch in this fishery until 2028 is a vote of confidence in our commitment to commercially viable and sustainable South Pacific fisheries,” Mr Jones says.

“This decision, combined with last year’s agreement at SPRFMO to increase carry forward of unused annual catch, supports jobs in New Zealand and our economy, and makes a real difference for our fishing industry.”

A further proposal by New Zealand to increase the bycatch threshold for coral and sponge before fishers are required to move on from the area was not supported.

“While I’m disappointed there was not agreement on this proposal, New Zealand will be making the same proposal next year. I look forward to continuing our efforts to ensure continued access to the South Pacific fishery.

“I reiterate that this proposal is based on the best available scientific information we have, and will ensure our commercial fishers in the South Pacific are not hampered by needlessly restrictive rules, while still preventing significant adverse effects on the marine ecosystem,” Mr Jones says.

New Zealand’s proposal to strengthen measures to protect seabirds in bottom longline and trawl fisheries was adopted at the meeting.

“Many of our taonga seabirds, including albatross and petrels, range across the Pacific. These measures are crucial for their protection. They align with international best practice, as well as the rules that apply for commercial fishers in New Zealand waters,” Mr Jones says.

New Zealand also made progress in the establishment of binding labour standards for crew on fishing vessels operated by member countries in the high seas of the South Pacific. The proposal from New Zealand and the United States recognises the unique work environment on board fishing vessels and the vulnerability of crew to exploitation.

“While no consensus was reached at this meeting, there was good progress on the text of the new rules which establish basic minimum conditions for crew on fishing vessels. “We will continue this important work with the aim of having these adopted in 2027 so fishing crews in the region are protected from exploitation and the same ethical standards apply to all fishers in the region.”

“I remain committed to ensuring New Zealand has access to commercially viable fisheries in the Pacific, and I will continue to advocate for fisheries management that strikes a balance between environmental protections and these economic benefits,” Mr Jones says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/nz-contributes-changes-to-pacific-fisheries/

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New Solicitor-General appointed

Source: New Zealand Government

Anna Adams has been appointed Solicitor-General and Chief Executive of the Crown Law Office, Attorney-General Judith Collins announced today.

“Ms Adams is an outstanding lawyer and leader,” Ms Collins says.

“She has extensive experience in public law and has worked for many years at the highest levels of our legal system.

“Ms Adams also brings strong private‑sector leadership, having chaired a major national law firm. That mix of legal expertise and practical leadership makes her exceptionally well suited to the role of Solicitor-General.

“She is widely respected for her judgement, integrity and commitment to the law. I am confident she will provide strong and effective leadership at Crown Law and continue the high standards expected of the Solicitor-General.”

The Solicitor-General is a key constitutional role, serving as the Crown’s principal legal adviser, providing advice to the Prime Minister, the Attorney-General and Cabinet, and leads the Crown Law Office. The Solicitor-General is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the Governor-General.

Ms Adams is an expert in public law with 28 years of experience across advisory work and litigation. She has acted in criminal prosecutions and civil cases for both public and private sector clients and has appeared as lead counsel in more than 100 cases in the District Court, High Court and Court of Appeal, including complex coronial inquests and major inquiries.

Ms Adams is currently a barrister at Bankside Chambers. She previously spent 20 years at Meredith Connell, serving as lead partner for public and health law and later as Chair of the Board. She also holds governance roles, including on the board of PHARMAC.

Ms Adams holds an LLM from Yale Law School, an LLB (Hons) and a BA from the University of Auckland. She has been appointed for five years from 11 May 2026.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/new-solicitor-general-appointed/

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Greenpeace – Renewed calls for Govt to lower nitrate contamination limits, following Danish precedent

Source: Greenpeace

In  an open letter launched this morning, Greenpeace is calling on the New Zealand Government to put public health above industry profits by lowering the legal limit for nitrate in drinking water. (ref. https://www.greenpeace.org/aotearoa/publication/open-letter-nitrate-limits/ )
This follows the Danish Government’s move to lower the legal limit for nitrate in drinking water, after an expert panel recommended it should reduce from 11.3mg/L – which is also New Zealand’s current standard – to 1mg/L. The panel’s recommendation was to take a precautionary approach to protect against the risk of bowel cancer.
Greenpeace Aotearoa freshwater campaigner Will Appelbe says, “Rural families’ drinking water is being poisoned by the intensive dairy industry, yet the New Zealand Government is burying its head in the sand and pretending there’s no problem.”
“A growing body of international evidence has linked elevated levels of nitrate in drinking water with several human health risks, including bowel cancer, preterm birth, and Blue Baby syndrome.”
“But while Denmark moves to protect people from these health risks, the Luxon Government is protecting dairy industry profits.”
Appelbe says that the Danish situation is a ‘good news story’ – one that New Zealand needs to replicate.
“The Danish Government has recognised a threat to human health, and taken action to stop the problem from getting worse.
“Nitrate contamination has been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer, preterm birth, and at high levels, Blue Baby syndrome. Another recent international study suggests a correlation between high nitrate in drinking water and increased dementia risk. The weight of the available evidence supports taking a precautionary approach and reducing exposure to nitrate contamination.”
“The evidence is clear. Nitrate contamination puts people’s health at risk. That’s why we’re calling on the Luxon Government to lower the Maximum Allowable Value – the legal limit – for nitrate in drinking water now.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/greenpeace-renewed-calls-for-govt-to-lower-nitrate-contamination-limits-following-danish-precedent/

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Rural communities encouraged to attend emergency preparedness events

Source: New Zealand Government

A series of rural resilience workshops to help farmers and growers be better prepared for adverse events will be rolled out starting next week, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says.

“Significant rainfall and flooding this summer have caused damage to farms and orchards, and had an impact on freight, transport and other infrastructure,” Mr McClay says.

“Farmers and growers have shown significant resilience getting through recent storms and ensuring the welfare of their animals. These workshops will help in emergency preparedness.”

The catchment emergency preparedness workshops will be held across the country, and a rural resilience roadshow is taking place on the West Coast this month.

Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson says rural communities are highly exposed to the impacts of emergencies, and preparation is key.

“The workshops are designed to be practical to help rural New Zealanders prepare for and respond to adverse events.”

A farm emergency plan template and an adverse event preparedness checklist for farmers can be found on the Good Farm website or on MPI’s website: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/funding-rural-support/adverse-events/preparing-for-adverse-events       

Note to editors:

Catchment Emergency Preparedness Workshops 

18 March 

Otago – Cullen Conference Room, Invermay, Mosgiel. 9.45am-4pm.

24 March

Blenheim – Landsdowne Hub. 10am-4pm.

14 April

Canterbury – Dunsandel Community Centre, Dunsandel. 11am-4pm.

23 April

Ruapehu district. Taumarunui. 10am-4pm. 

30 April

Waikato. Waitomo. 10am-4pm.

4 May

Waikato. Mangatangi Hall, Mangatangi. 10am-4pm. 

13 May 

Bay of Plenty. Te Puna. 

19 May

Northland. Whangārei.

 

Additional details for workshops will be available on the events section of the NZ Landcare Trust website closer to the time.

 

Rural Resilience Roadshow – West Coast 

11 March 

Westport – Sergeants Hill Hall. 6pm.

12 March 

Reefton – Community Centre Hall. 11am.

Greymouth – Ashley Hotel. 6pm.

18 March 

Kokatahi – Kokatahi Hall. 11am.

Harihari – Community Hall. 6pm.

19 March 

Franz Josef – Community Hall. 11am.

Haast – Okuru Hall. 5.30pm.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/rural-communities-encouraged-to-attend-emergency-preparedness-events/

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Another Housing Development Approved

Source: New Zealand Government

One of Auckland’s largest new housing developments, the Sunfield Masterplanned Community has been approved through Fast-track says Regional Development Minister Shane Jones.  

Winton Land Limited submitted its application on 3 April 2025 to develop the ‘Masterplanned’ community to provide around 3,854 new homes, a 7.5‑hectare town centre, retail and healthcare services, three retirement villages, and extensive parks, reserves and green links.

“The Sunfield development is projected to be deliver up to $3.2 billion to the economy, support approximately 24,700 jobs during the 10–15‑year build‑out period, and around 9,800 permanent jobs once the community is fully established.” Mr Jones says.

Approval for this project has taken 10 months following the commencement of the expert panel process which included approximately four months of suspension.

“Applicants can request a suspension from the expert panel to do things such as collate information required for the panel’s process, this demonstrates the flexibility built into the Fast-track system.” Mr Jones says.  

Concerns were raised about whether existing infrastructure like roads, water supply and sewage systems would be able to support the new homes this project would deliver. The expert panel found those concerns could be addressed through development design and by meeting the conditions of consent. 

“These conditions ensure that growth pays for growth by ensuring the future development pays for its own infrastructure needs,” Mr Jones says. 

“This is a major win for housing supply, jobs and growth in Auckland. Fast-track is doing exactly what it was set up to do, getting big projects moving sooner.” Mr Jones says.

This is the seventh housing project to be approved through Fast‑track and the fourth approval in the Auckland region.

Notes to editor:

For more information about the project: Sunfield

Fast-track by the numbers:

  • 12 projects approved by expert panels.
  • 19 projects with expert panels appointed.
  • 149 projects are listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act, meaning they can apply for Fast-track approval.
  • 47 projects currently progressing through the Fast-track process.
  • 32 projects have been referred to Fast-track by the Minister for Infrastructure.
  • On average, it has taken 128 working days for decisions on substantive applications from when officials determine an application is complete and in-scope.

Fast-track projects approved by expert panels:

  • Sunfield [Housing/Land]
  • Arataki [Housing/Land]
  • Homestead Bay [Housing/Land]
  • Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]
  • Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2 [Housing/Land]
  • Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block [Mining/Quarrying]
  • Kings Quarry Expansion – Stages 2 and 3 [Mining/Quarrying]
  • Maitahi Village [Housing/Land]
  • Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing/Land]
  • Rangitoopuni [Housing/Land]
  • Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable energy]
  • Waihi North [Mining/Quarrying]

Expert panels have been appointed for:

  • Ashbourne
  • Ayrburn Screen Hub
  • Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project
  • Green Steel
  • Haldon Solar Farm
  • Hananui Aquaculture Project
  • Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme
  • Lake Pūkaki Hydro Storage and Dam Resilience Works
  • Mahinerangi Wind Farm
  • Pound Road Industrial Development
  • Ryans Road Industrial Development
  • Southland Wind Farm Project
  • Stella Passage Development
  • Takitimu North Link – Stage 2
  • The Point Mission Bay
  • The Point Solar Farm
  • Waitaha Hydro
  • Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project
  • Wellington International Airport Southern Seawall Renewal

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/another-housing-development-approved/