Category: LiveNews

Posted on

‘I wouldn’t even know where to go’ – former US marine facing deportation to NZ

Source: Radio New Zealand

Paul Canton. Supplied

A NZ-born man who is facing deportation from the US – after living there for more than half his life and serving in the US Marine Corps – says he has no links to New Zealand and “no connection to that way of life”.

Paul Canton was a Marine for seven years and has built a life in Florida, where his children have grown up.

But after 36 years living in the US, a judge has denied his bid to stay – because he has never had US citizenship.

Born in New Zealand and raised in Australia, he first visited the US as an exchange student and enlisted in the Marines in the early 1990s.

“I feel like I’m fully bonded to it, I mean I love this country. It’s a way of life that is so unique and so beautiful,” he said.

“When I joined the military, to me that was one of the best times. Everyone who was serving with us, we all loved the country.”

Canton was born in a decade that automatically means he has birthright citizenship in New Zealand. He is in his 50s and that applies to anyone born in Aotearoa before 2006.

His Australian citizenship was revoked when he joined the US marines. At the time military service did not require recruits to be permanent residents.

Paul Canton during his service in the US Marine Corp. Military.com/Facebook/Supplied

Canton said he was promised US citizenship if he served and was discharged honourably, which he did in 1998.

It was only when renewing his drivers licence years later that he discovered that had not happened.

“The first time I found out I figured somebody failed to do the paperwork so I just [thought] okay I’ll just go down and fill out a few forms and we’ll be done.”

That was about a decade ago, and Canton soon found out it was not that straightforward to fix, despite being married to an American citizen – his wife passed away three years ago.

He then hired a lawyer and spent years trying to navigate the immigration system. In February after many lost appeals, a judge denied citizenship.

Canton said he has no links to New Zealand – his family moved to Australia about 50 years ago, when he was five years old.

“I have no connection to that way of life, I wouldn’t even know where to go or what to do and it’s so unique to live here in America. It’s a wonderful place to raise your kids.”

Attorney Elizabeth Ricci has represented him pro-bono for six years and said it was a complicated case.

Canton had voted, believing he was a US citizen, and that was now a barrier to citizenship.

“He was honourably discharged, he did four years active, four years reserve, believed himself to be a US citizen so he registered to vote and voted,” Ricci said.

“The rule about voting [and citizenship] changed in 1996 and if you voted or registered to vote after that rule changed, there’s now no waiver available for you to be eligible for you to naturalise, ever.”

Canton’s eligibility to gain US citizenship through the marines was linked to when he served. He had enlisted in 1991 just weeks before the Persian Gulf conflict ended.

Ricci said because his active service began after the conflict had ended, he was denied citizenship based on his military experience.

“The rule is that if you served during that period you could go from undocumented to citizen, so clearly enough people were serving in our military undocumented that they had to even make that rule. But the rule only applied for active duty.”

Ricci said they were now hoping for political intervention.

“We now need a special Bill through Congress or for the President to do something. He [Canton] has written several letters to both [then president Joe] Biden and [President Donald] Trump asking for intervention and has gotten no response.”

Ricci said he could be served with a notice to appear at Immigration Court in Orlando with a hearing weeks, months or years away, due to millions of backlogged cases.

The Department of Internal Affairs confirmed anyone born in New Zealand before the start of 2006 automatically is a New Zealand citizen.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/i-wouldnt-even-know-where-to-go-former-us-marine-facing-deportation-to-nz/

Posted on

New Zealand & Ireland collaborate on farm emissions

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand’s Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Ireland’s Minister of State Noel Grealish have signed a joint ministerial statement for advancing their partnership on agricultural climate research in Wellington today.

“New Zealand and Ireland will continue to advance vital research to support the development of tools to give farmers options to tackle agricultural greenhouse gas emissions without reducing production,” Minister McClay says.

It follows a successful Joint Research Initiative (JRI) pilot launched in 2022 with $34.5 million jointly invested to boost climate change research and science capability.

Minister of State Noel Grealish visited several of the 11 projects underway during his time in New Zealand and says they have helped accelerate understanding of agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.

“Agriculture is at the heart of the Irish and New Zealand economies, and we share the common goal of lowering emissions in pasture-based farming, while supporting farmers to produce more.

“During my visit to New Zealand, I was delighted to meet with Minister Todd McClay and agree to the second phase of the JRI that will drive meaningful reductions in agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.”

New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries and Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will now identify further projects to progress.

Separately, Ministers also launched the new 2026-2030 Strategic Plan for the Global Research Alliance on Agricultural Greenhouse Gases (GRA).

It has four priorities: advance scientific research, strengthen capacity and knowledge sharing, build effective collaboration and partnerships, and leverage financial and other resources.  

Note to editors:

The GRA aims to deepen and broaden research efforts in cropping, livestock, and paddy rice. It brings together researchers from around the globe to collaborate on science and breakthrough solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/new-zealand-ireland-collaborate-on-farm-emissions/

Posted on

Police seek help solving violent Wellington robbery

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Patrice Allen

Police are asking for the public’s help identifying two men who seriously assaulted a person during a robbery in Brooklyn, Wellington on Tuesday afternoon.

The victim was hospitalised with multiple injuries during the attack, on Ohiro Road around 5.40pm.

The men also stole the victim’s phone.

Police asked anyone with information to come forward.

You can call 105 or use the police website to report information, or provide anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/police-seek-help-solving-violent-wellington-robbery/

Posted on

McClay to lead cross-party delegation to WTO negotiation

Source: New Zealand Government

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay travels to Cameroon this weekend for the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO), where he will again serve as a Vice Chair of the negotiations.

“As a small, export driven economy, New Zealand depends on predictable and rules based global trade. The WTO is an important part of this system,” Mr McClay says.

“Faced with growing global economic and geo-political disruption, rising protectionism, and concerns about global supply chain resilience, there’s recognition among WTO members of the need for a modern, effective organisation that’s geared to support trade in today’s world.”

As Vice Chair of the conference, Mr McClay has a key role in facilitating those discussions.

Mr McClay will be joined by Labour Party Trade and Export Growth spokesperson Damien O’Connor as part of New Zealand’s delegation.

“New Zealand will push for outcomes that maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the WTO which continues to have a critical oversight role for the vast majority of global trade,” Mr McClay says.

Trade ministers and representatives from the 166 WTO member economies attend the Ministerial Conference, the WTO’s highest decision-making body, which meets every two years.

They will also address e-commerce, agriculture reform, and harmful fisheries subsidies during the conference which runs from 26-29 March.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/mcclay-to-lead-cross-party-delegation-to-wto-negotiation/

Posted on

Checkpoint live: Promoters accused of holding government to ransom over big events

Source: Radio New Zealand

Robbie Williams Tim Kildeborg Jensen / Ritzau Scanpix / AFP

There are allegations of corporate concert welfare and promoters holding the government to ransom over funding for big events while home grown talent is left out.

Some promoters are not in tune with the government helping fund pop star Robbie Williams’ tour to New Zealand.

The money came out of its Major Events and Tourism package, a $70 million fund aimed at stimulating economic activity around entertainment events.

$40 million of that money is to secure large-scale international events.

But how much it paid to get Robbie Williams to New Zealand for two shows – one in Auckland the other in Christchurch – is being kept secret.

The government says its commercially sensitive.

It also contributed undisclosed amounts to other gigs including Linkin Park and Wellington’s Ultra music festival – that includes major international DJ’s.

One promoter has told Checkpoint the government is being taken for a ride by big players.

Meanwhile Splore Festival producer Fred Kublikowski applied for event funding, but was declined.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/checkpoint-live-promoters-accused-of-holding-government-to-ransom-over-big-events/

Posted on

Tell the coppers about copper crime

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Constable Craig Colyer, Southern District Field Intelligence Officer:

Southern District Police investigating multiple cases of copper thefts are asking the public for information to track down those responsible.

Over the past month, the value of scrap copper has increased, and so have the reports of copper theft.

These have included copper cylinders being targeted, copper wire being burnt off and stripped, and copper being taken from buildings and power companies.

Police are asking anyone with information about copper crimes, or of scrap copper that may come from suspicious origins, to contact Police immediately.

Police remind you that it is a crime to receive stolen goods.

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

Police are also asking residents to be vigilant around their properties and to secure any items that may include copper.

If you are the victim of a burglary, please report the matter to Police.

You may not be the only victim in your area and every little bit of information you have may assist in the arrests of those responsible.

To report burglaries and thefts, contact Police. If it’s happening now, call 111, for any non-urgent incidents, call 105 or make a report online by clicking ‘Make a report’.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/tell-the-coppers-about-copper-crime/

Posted on

Ara hub celebrates 10 years of airport jobs

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister of Social Development and Employment Louise Upston is marking 10 years of the Ara Jobs and Skills Hub, which trains and connects people to jobs across the Auckland Airport precinct.

In the past decade:

  • Over 1,440 people have been supported into jobs
  • More than 1,700 young people supported through training pathways
  • 3,600 learners gained skills and training opportunities

The Ministry of Social Development has partnered with Ara Jobs Skills Hub for the whole 10 years, helping co-ordinate recruitment and training needs for the 800 businesses employing 25,000 people within the Auckland Airport precinct.
Louise Upston says it is a worthy milestone to celebrate. 

“The Ara Jobs and Skills Hub facilitates workforce planning, recruitment, and training for this nationally-significant group of businesses spanning aviation, construction, logistics and other service sectors like tourism, retail, accommodation and hospitality. 

“The scale of these workforce needs demand a unique platform for long-term planning and coordination.

“It makes sense that the Ministry of Social Development is a key partner given it has the biggest talent pool of people to draw from and MSD’s longstanding relationship with Ara has provided a seamless pathway for job seekers into airport-based jobs.”

Louise Upston says it’s great to see positive signals for renewed infrastructure developments at the Auckland Airport precinct and MSD will continue to support training and recruiting for workforce needs.

“Getting people into jobs is a key focus of our government’s plan to fix the basics and build the future. Work will always be the best way for New Zealanders to support their families and get ahead in life. That is why I am committed to reaching our target of 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support by 2030.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/ara-hub-celebrates-10-years-of-airport-jobs/

Posted on

Police seek helping solving violent Wellington robbery

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Patrice Allen

Police are asking for the public’s help identifying two men who seriously assaulted a person during a robbery in Brooklyn, Wellington on Tuesday afternoon.

The victim was hospitalised with multiple injuries during the attack, on Ohiro Road around 5.40pm.

The men also stole the victim’s phone.

Police asked anyone with information to come forward.

You can call 105 or use the police website to report information, or provide anonymous tips to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/police-seek-helping-solving-violent-wellington-robbery/

Posted on

AEON Bank Champions Community Impact Financial Inclusion and Rewarding Raya Campaign Anchored on “Niat di Hati, Budi Terpateri”

Source: Media Outreach

As part of its Shared Value Creation (SVC) commitment, AEON Bank continues to drive its flagship community impact initiative, Salam Prihatin.

Targeted Support and Value Added Impact This year, Salam Prihatin 4.0 engaged 100 households, amounting to more than 400 beneficiaries from the community Perumahan Pantai Permai, Kuala Lumpur. The engagement was held on 3 March 2026, in collaboration with AEON BiG Wangsa Maju and a local NGO, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Masyarakat Penyayang Lembah Pantai (PERKEMP) Lembah Pantai.

Fostering Financial Inclusion and Enabling Budget Savvy Autonomy Among the Beneficiaries

Fostering financial inclusion among the community, the beneficiary families were guided by AEON Bank team to plan for purposeful purchase of grocery and essential items, giving them the autonomy to optimise their budget, based on the needs of their respective families – be it multigenerational households, or families with small children or those caring for persons with disabilities (PWD).

Each beneficiary family received a RM300 grocery budget, which rounded up AEON Bank’s contribution this year to RM30,000 in total. In order to assist the families with their grocery shopping on the event day, more than 50 of AEON Bank employees, including the Bank’s senior leadership, were paired up with the families during the engagement. To date, AEON Bank has engaged almost 2,000 beneficiaries throughout 4 years, under its Salam Prihatin community impact initiative.

Now in its fourth year, AEON Bank has engaged almost 2,000 beneficiaries throughout 4 years, under its Salam Prihatin community impact initiative.

NIAT TO BE MORE RINGGIT SAVVY : SMART SAVINGS AND VALUE ADDED REWARDS

In the effort to help Malaysians manage the rising cost of living, AEON Bank has introduced several financial tools in its digital banking app and meaningful rewards for its customers, including :

(i) Neko Sensei : AEON Bank’s very own in-app financial coach designed to empower customers to track and manage their finances wisely.

(ii) RM30 Raya Cashback : Customers can earn RM30 cashback when paying with their AEON Bank Debit Card-i at stores participating in the MyDebit campaign, valid from 1 February to 15 April 2026.

(iii) Competitive Rate for Savings Pot : Enjoy a high 3.00% p.a. profit rate for the Savings Pot to help keep your financial goals on track, valid until 31 May 2026.

(iv) Personal Financing-i (PF-i) : Financing options from RM1,000 to RM100,000 with a profit rate starting at 3.88% p.a. and flexible tenures from 3 to 84 months. PF-i application process fully takes place online via the app, available to Malaysians with a minimum monthly gross income of RM2,500 including salaried employees, self-employed individuals, freelancers and gig economy workers.

(v) Neko Missions : A gamified digital banking experience that offers RM5 cashback for DuitNow QR transactions via AEON Bank app, valid until 15 May 2026.

(vi) JomPay : Customers can also make their JomPay transactions, including telco and utility bills via the AEON Bank app. providing a centralised platform for all essential online payments.

(vii) Inclusivity and Flexibility : Effective 17 March 2026, AEON Bank has removed the minimum balance requirement, ensuring Shariah-compliant digital banking is more inclusive and accessible for Malaysians.

NIAT TO FULFILL RELIGIOUS OBLIGATIONS : SAH AND SEAMLESS ZAKAT PAYMENT VIA AEON BANK APP Starting from the month of Ramadan this year, Zakat payment feature has been made available on the AEON Bank app. With just a few easy steps, customers can fulfill the contribution for 11 types of Zakat with a sah Aqad, including Zakat Fitrah, Zakat Pendapatan (Income), Zakat Perniagaan (Business), Zakat Emas (Gold) and more.

Made possible through the strategic partnership with Tulus Digital, the Zakat payment feature currently facilitates payments to Lembaga Zakat Selangor and PPZ-MAIWP, with more states and Zakat authority to be added in the near future.

NIAT TO BRING DIGITAL BANKING TO THE MASSES : O2O WONDERS

Beyond the digital screens, throughout four weeks of Ramadan, AEON Bank brought the O2O (online to offline) wonders to the crowd at the Bazaar Ramadan Seksyen 2 and 23, Shah Alam, in partnership with Persatuan Penjaja & Peniaga Kecil Melayu Negeri Selangor (PPPKMNS). On 16 March 2026, from 4.00 pm onwards, come on over to the Bazaar Ramadan Seksyen 23 and stand a chance to win AEON Bank merchandise and surprise goodies.

Better Banking – The Digital Way, Better Banking – The Shariah Way

As a cloud-native AI-powered digital bank, AEON Bank remains dedicated in its commitment to provide accessible financial solutions for Malaysians, while empowering communities to pursue their financial aspirations and achieve economic independence. Striving to foster a more inclusive financial future for all, AEON Bank will continue to offer a better banking experience for the larger demographic and contribute towards the development of Islamic banking in the region and the nation’s digital economy.

Click HERE to visit AEON Bank’s website and download the AEON Bank app. Don’t forget to view AEON Bank’s Ramadan Aidilfitri 2026 video, available on the Bank’s official YouTube channel.

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/2026/03/18/aeon-bank-champions-community-impact-financial-inclusion-and-rewarding-raya-campaign-anchored-on-niat-di-hati-budi-terpateri/

Posted on

This World Water Day: Clean Water Is More Than Survival — It’s a Pathway to Women’s Empowerment – World Vision

Source: World Vision

  • A quarter of the world’s population don’t have access to safe drinking water
  • Women and girls are especially impacted, with some walking up to 15 kilometres for water 
  • World Vision aims to reach 30 million people with clean water by 2030. 

This World Water Day, World Vision New Zealand is putting the spotlight on the global water crisis as a quarter of the world’s population still cannot access safe drinking water.  

More than 2 billion people globally lack access to safe drinking water, with women and girls bearing the greatest burden. In some communities, women walk up to 15 kilometres a day to collect water — a task that can consume hours and limit their opportunities for education, work and participation in community life.

World Vision New Zealand International Partnerships Director Stephen Court says it is unacceptable that so many people are still denied access to such a basic human right.

“It’s unacceptable that in 2026 a quarter of the world’s population still doesn’t have access to safe drinking water. Clean water is a basic human right, yet millions of families are forced to live without it.

Without safe water, disease spreads, children miss school, and women are prevented from participating fully in work and community life. It traps families in a cycle of poverty that should no longer exist.”

New World Vision research in Guatemala, Honduras, Kenya, and Zimbabwe, finds that combining water access with behaviour change and economic empowerment activities can create lasting impact.  

This family-centred approach integrates water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services with financial literacy training, savings groups, livelihood support, and engagement around social norms.

Court says when this approach is adopted women report higher personal income and household savings, greater participation in financial decisions, increased confidence, and stronger leadership within their communities.  

He highlights the changes seen in Rumate, Kenya, where women once walked up to four hours a day to collect water, often returning with only a fraction of what their families needed.  

After a borehole was installed in the community, women no longer had to spend hours collecting water and instead had time to pursue income-generating activities. Many formed savings groups, which enabled them to start small businesses and invest in their families.

“Access to safe water didn’t just meet a basic need — it unlocked opportunity,” says Court.

“When safe water is close to home, women gain something incredibly valuable: time. That time can be used to earn an income, participate in community life and invest in their families’ futures.”

The impact extends far beyond individual households.

“In many communities, the time women and girls spend collecting water goes unseen and undervalued. When safe water is accessible, women gain time, income opportunities and a stronger voice in their households and communities.

World Vision reaches one new person with clean water every 10 seconds, and we are aiming to reach 30 million people with clean water between 2023 and 2030.”

Court says this World Water Day, the message is clear:  “Safe water is about far more than survival. It is the foundation for dignity, equality, and opportunity. When women gain access to clean water, they gain time, income, and influence — and entire communities thrive.”

 

New Zealanders who want to help ensure children have access to safe drinking water can support World Vision through its Gift Catalogue, which includes the option to provide clean water for a child: https://www.worldvision.org.nz/give-now/smiles-gift/#/product/smiles-clean-water-for-a-child

 

Notes

Key stats and findings can be found in the Beyond Access research. 

 

Video from Rumate, Kenya:  
How women transformed their village - here  

 

About World Vision   
World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organisation dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.  

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/this-world-water-day-clean-water-is-more-than-survival-its-a-pathway-to-womens-empowerment-world-vision/

Posted on

Nationwide outage impacting 2degrees mobile customers

Source: Radio New Zealand

It is not known how many customers are impacted. RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A nationwide outage is affecting some 2degrees mobile customers, preventing them from making or receiving calls.

The company confirmed the outage, which is listed as ‘under repair’ in a network status update on its website at 3.12pm on Wednesday.

“We know some 2degrees customers are having difficulties making calls on their mobiles. We’re sorry for the hassle and rest assured our technicians are working hard to fix this for you.”

It is not known how many customers are impacted.

More to come.

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/nationwide-outage-impacting-2degrees-mobile-customers/

Posted on

‘One of the most dated GDP report cards in recent memory’

Source: Radio New Zealand

NZ’s GDP rose about 0.3 percent in the three months to December, compared to the Reserve Bank’s February forecast of 0.5 percent. RNZ

  • Economic growth estimated at 0.3 percent in three months ended December, annual growth 1.5 percent
  • Primary sector, tourism industries the best; manufacturing flat, construction weak.
  • Figures are expected to confirm economy was turning corner
  • Historic numbers have been rendered almost irrelevant by Middle East conflict
  • The conflict at best will slow recovery, at worst derail it
  • RBNZ faces a dilemma – support growth or fight inflation

The economy is expected to have shown improving growth at the end of last year, in a set of historic numbers rendered almost irrelevant by the Middle East conflict.

Economists expect gross domestic product (GDP) – a broad measure of economic growth – rose around 0.3 percent in the three months ended December, compared to the Reserve Bank’s February forecast of 0.5 percent. The annual rate is forecast to have risen to 1.5 percent.

Kiwibank economist Sabrina Delgado said the numbers would be stale.

“To be honest, it’s probably going to be one of the most dated GDP report cards in recent memory.”

She said the growth numbers were always delayed, but the escalating conflict in the Middle East, and the impact of rising prices, supply chain disruptions and the like had changed the picture entirely.

For the record, the numbers are expected to show the primary sector and tourism related industries doing well, manufacturing broadly flat, and construction weak.

“It was another quarter of strong visitor arrivals with plenty of indicators pointing to a lift in transport, arts and recreation, and retail trade and accommodation,” Delgado said.

That was then, this is now

ASB senior economist Kim Mundy said the data would confirm the economic direction of travel, although growth was not as vigorous as the previous quarter’s 1.1 percent. The per capita growth measure was expected to be positive for the second quarter in a row, reflecting better household finances.

But the conflict has changed that.

“The economic consequences for New Zealand from the war depend on how long it lasts, but so far, the risks to economic growth are firmly skewed to the downside,” she said.

The risks were clearly being driven by the surge in oil prices, which have already driven pump prices and would flow through to the price of other goods and services, giving an inevitable lift to inflation.

Treasury has forecast a worst case scenario of inflation hitting 3.7 percent this year if the conflict persists, a forecast some see as too conservative.

The inflation spike and softening economic performance give the Reserve Bank (RBNZ) a dilemma – to tackle inflation, implying interest rises or to support the economy with “accommodative” interest rates.

Economists do not expect the RBNZ to have any kneekerk rate reaction to the price spikes at its 8 April statement, and ANZ senior economist Matthew Gault said a softish GDP number might have the central bank seeing more slack in the economy, and therefore more capacity to absorb price rises.

“However, we wouldn’t want to overplay this given the uncertain outlook, and also recalling that annual inflation at 3.1 percent isn’t coming from an entirely comfortable starting point.”

Delgado said it was not just the inflation spike, but the impact on sentiment and demand.

“It’s yet another wave of uncertainty for Kiwi households and businesses. And there is a real risk that it derails our recovery in the same way Trump’s liberation day tariffs did last year.”

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/one-of-the-most-dated-gdp-report-cards-in-recent-memory/

Posted on

Government introduces legislation to reaffirm Police tools to prevent, disrupt, and address crime

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has introduced a Bill to amend the Policing Act 2008, reaffirming Police’s ability to record images and sounds in public places, and some private places, as well as expanding temporary area closure powers.

Following the decision of the Supreme Court in the Tamiefuna case, Police’s ability to record images and sounds in public places, and collect personal information for lawful purposes, including intelligence was constrained.

“This created uncertainty and made the collection of evidence, and therefore the prosecution of criminals, much harder” says Police Minister Mark Mitchell.

“The government has introduced a bill to reaffirm the prior common law position, making it clear that Police can collect and use images in public places, and some private places, for lawful policing purposes. This includes intelligence gathering, crime prevention, and other policing functions.

“These changes will enable that and strengthen Police’s ability to detect and prevent crime, and hold offenders accountable for their offending. Ultimately it will help Police keep Kiwis safe.”  

The Government is also expanding Police’s existing temporary road closure powers to cover a broader range of areas, such as parks, reserves, beaches, and carparks.

The changes will give Police new tools to manage non-compliance with temporary closures, including the ability to direct people to leave a closed area, stop vehicles, obtain identifying particulars for the purpose of issuing infringements, and arrest without warrant those who fail to comply.

The new powers will also leverage existing powers that are being progressed through the Antisocial Road Use Legislation Amendment Bill, led by Minister Chris Bishop.

“These new powers will provide clarity and consistency for frontline Police, ensuring they have the necessary tools to support the Governments Law and Order agenda,” Mr Mitchell says. “They will be useful tools to help Police respond to incidents like street racing and dirt bike riding in public parks.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/government-introduces-legislation-to-reaffirm-police-tools-to-prevent-disrupt-and-address-crime/

Posted on

Why some rugby clubs are going fee-free for kids

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Nelson Rugby Football Union is the latest club to remove fees for junior players. Shuttersport NZ

Rugby clubs around the country are scrapping junior fees in a bid to ease financial pressure on families and revive grassroots participation.

What began as a small initiative in 2024 has gathered momentum, with more clubs opting to waive registration costs in 2026.

Counties Manukau has led the way, entering its third season of the scheme offering free junior rugby.

Head of community Matt Megaw said the results were already showing, with a five percent lift in player numbers and more teams formed.

Funded through a $1 million grant from NZ Rugby’s Silver Lake deal, the union placed the money in a trust and distributed the interest to clubs.

“We’ve delivered $155,000 back to the community and that’ll top $200,000 by the end of the year,” Megaw said.

“Fees are a barrier, especially in our region. Being able to use it on junior rugby specifically is going to support those families in some way.”

While clubs are not required to remove fees, many have opted in – including Pukekohe, which has more than 350 junior players.

“They’re completely zero-fees this year. Two years ago it was $80 to $100,” Megaw said.

“It empowers clubs to make those calls, and kids can just walk in and play – that’s what it’s all about.”

Several grassroots rugby clubs from around the country have elected to follow Counties Manukau’s lead this season by removing fees for junior players. 123rf.com

The model is now spreading.

In Nelson, the country’s oldest rugby club has this year elected to remove fees for junior players.

The Nelson Rugby Football Union made the move in response to a study showing cost prevented kids getting into sport.

Junior club captain Lisa Trusler said the club’s focus is on removing barriers where possible.

“We want to see more kids get involved with rugby and the financial hardship on a lot of families these days is hard.”

Though the season had yet to kick off, Trusler said there had been a great response from locals.

“It’s a little bit too early to tell, but there has been a bit of excitement from a few families that have got multiple children. Our under six grade is getting a few extras come along.”

The club also utilise a boot box, where boots are donated for kids to use.

“They can get other rugby gear as well, head gear and stuff like that. It’s all about getting kids into rugby regardless of their financial position.”

Trusler said she hoped that the initiative would open the doors for a lot more people.

“We just want to see more kids out there running around.”

Rippa Rugby at Sport Park Motueka. Chris Symes

Wellington’s Newlands Rugby Football Club has taken a similar approach this season. In announcing the decision on its website, the club said: “For many families sport has become an expense that is increasingly difficult to justify.

“Our priority is ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate in rugby, regardless of their family’s financial situation.”

Research backs up the shift. A 2020 Sport NZ study, led by University of Otago researcher Dr Anja Mizdrak, found household income had a significant impact on whether young people meet physical activity guidelines.

In Auckland, Marist director of rugby Doug Sanft said he has seen a clear decrease in junior playing numbers, and removing fees was an obvious way to arrest the decline.

“It’s a massive drop, but it’s right through all grades in Auckland. So we’re just trying to find ways to try and get them back. I think that’s one thing. I think that’s one solution.”

Sanft felt rugby was losing ground to the likes of football and basketball.

“We are trying to cater to the community and find ways to try and get some engagement back to the club. I don’t think we’re engaging many kids coming to rugby. There’s barriers all over here. The other one is making it fun for the kids. Instead of trying to compete, make sure they’re participating and just enjoying their time with the other kids.”

He said at the season’s first muster, there had been a noticeable shift in numbers.

NZ Rugby’s Mike Hester said it’s important that participation to community sport remains accessible to as many people as possible. New Zealand Rugby

NZ Rugby head of rugby participation and development Mike Hester said keeping the game accessible remained a priority.

“Rugby, like many sports, is always aiming to reduce the barriers to participation.”

Hester said that through collaborative efforts between the provincial unions, clubs and schools, rugby typically has low registration and affiliation fees when compared to other sports.

“Financial pressure on whānau can make it harder to stay involved, whether that’s covering fees, getting to training, or finding time to volunteer. Removing registration fees can help lower these barriers, particularly where travel and other associated costs come into play.

“Where clubs can operate without registration fees, we applaud their willingness to do so. However, we recognise this isn’t always possible. Clubs have a range of costs to cover, including equipment, uniforms and transport, and registration fees are one way to help meet those costs.”

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/why-some-rugby-clubs-are-going-fee-free-for-kids/

Posted on

Wellington Water warns of smells at Moa Point ahead of works

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Wellington Water has warned south coast residents of potential smells today and Monday while recovery works are done at Moa Point waste treatment plant.

Crews have been refurbishing the plant after it was forced to shut down after a catastrophic failure in February, which spewed tens of millions of litres of untreated sewage into the sea, and closed some south coast beaches for a period.

Wellington Water previously apologised about unexpected smells after turning its ventilation system on for the first time.

Crews will refurbish three clarifiers, which are large tanks that separate solids from liquids.

The plant have deployed odour neutralisers and scouts to combat smells.

Wellington Water said there was a “low risk” of smells.

People with complaints should contact the Greater Wellington Region Council.  

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/wellington-water-warns-of-smells-at-moa-point-ahead-of-works/

Posted on

Fertility clinic apologises for lost embryos, still not sure where they are

Source: Radio New Zealand

An embryo pictured as it divides from four to eight cells. Melanie Olds

An Auckland fertility clinic has apologised after frozen embryos went missing, and it still does not know what happened to them.

In a letter on Wednesday, Fertility Associates chief medical officer Dr Andrew Murray said a review was sparked after frozen embryos belonging to an Auckland patient went missing in 2025.

He said the family was told as soon as the issue was detected, and kept regularly updated.

“We understand the anxiety and concern a missing embryo would create. We know how much emotional energy goes into the IVF process, and have sincerely apologised to the family,” he wrote.

He said the clinic could say “with absolute confidence” that no embryo was transferred to another patient, and no more embryos were found to be missing.

“We use RI Witness, which is an electronic witnessing system that uses radio frequency identification tags and barcoding to track and monitor patient samples such as eggs, sperm, and embryos throughout the entire IVF process,” Murray explained. 

“It provides an automated, real-time layer of security and traceability, avoiding potential mix-ups by sounding an alarm at the workstation if samples are mismatched.”

Dr Andrew Murray. RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

An independent review had confirmed Fertility Associates’ processes were robust and secure, in line with international best practice, he said.

But all frozen embryos in Auckland would now be stored in a new, larger, dedicated area in a building in Greenlane, and the company would be “enhancing senior laboratory oversight and reinforcing training, quality assurance, and internal reporting mechanisms”.

“The relationship we have with our patients is built on trust, and we appreciate that trust has been shaken through this situation. While we can assure you that you have not been impacted by this issue, we understand that you may have questions.”

The letter did not address whether the missing embryos had been located, but in response to further questions by RNZ, Murray confirmed that despite the investigation, the clinic had been unable to locate the patient’s embryos or confirm how they went missing.

“We fully appreciate that the lack of a conclusion and clear answers is frustrating – we share that feeling and have done everything we can to get a definitive answer.”

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/18/fertility-clinic-apologises-for-lost-embryos-still-not-sure-where-they-are/

Posted on

Events – Record number of schools set to compete at 2026 National Secondary School Waka Ama Championships

Source: Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ

A record 142 secondary schools and 2,300 participants from across Aotearoa will gather at Lake Tikitapu next week for the 2026 Secondary School Waka Ama Championships, highlighting the continued growth of waka ama among rangatahi nationwide.

Hosted by Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ, the five-day national championship will take place from the 23–27 March. The event brings together thousands of student paddlers to compete in sprint racing across a range of divisions and distances.

The annual event, which started in 2002, has become one of the largest secondary school sporting competitions in the country during summer tournament week. The students representing their kura and schools compete in disciplines such as W1, W6 and W12 racing, including mixed, boys’ and girls’ divisions.

Waka Ama Aotearoa NZ CEO, Lara Collins, says that as the numbers for waka ama continue to scale up, its expected to see such a growth amongst rangatahi, based on the 2026 Waka Ama Sprint Nationals statistics.

“Every year this sport gets bigger, and a positive indication that it continues to grow are the numbers of rangatahi participation. This year alone there was an increase of 22% in paddlers from ages 5 to 23 from the 2026 Waka Ama Sprint Nationals” says Collins.

This year’s interest from schools reflects the rapid growth of waka ama throughout Aotearoa. More rangatahi and schools are embracing the sport for its combination of high-performance competition, cultural connection and fun.

For TIPENE, this will be their inaugural year competing at the event. Waka ama team manager and parent, Ramari Matairangi, says it’s a great opportunity for their school to reach a significant milestone.  

“With our rangatahi competing at the Waka Ama Secondary School Nationals for the first time, it reflects the rapid growth of the TIPENE Waka Ama Programme and the commitment of our students, coaches, kura, and partners who have worked together to establish a strong foundation in a short period of time,” says Matairangi.

As a first-year programme for the school, it has set the pathway for future growth and sustained involvement in waka ama at TIPENE and beyond according to Matairangi.

Over five days of racing, the lake will be home to school teams, supporters and whānau as the country’s top young school paddlers compete for waka ama national titles.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/events-record-number-of-schools-set-to-compete-at-2026-national-secondary-school-waka-ama-championships/

Posted on

Greenpeace – Thousands call on Christopher Luxon to condemn the illegal attacks on Iran by Trump and Israel

Source: Greenpeace

Thousands of people have signed a petition demanding Christopher Luxon stand up and condemn the illegal attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel. Greenpeace delivered the petition to opposition leader Chris Hipkins in Wellington today.
Standing on the steps of parliament, Greenpeace Aotearoa Executive Director Dr Russel Norman said, “This war is plainly illegal – it is not an act of self-defence nor is it sanctioned by the UN Security Council.
“While we have come to expect that the US Government approach to international law is more honoured in the breach than the observance, nonetheless international law is critical for the security of everyone on the planet but especially for a small nation like New Zealand.
“We expect Christopher Luxon to advocate in favour of international law and hence condemn this reckless illegal war.
“Silence in the face of injustice is complicity, and thousands of New Zealanders agree that Luxon should be standing up to bullies like Trump, who is attempting to destroy any possibility of a rules-based international order.”
Greenpeace delivered the petition to the Parliament Opposition who have been open about their condemnation of Trump’s illegal war.
Greenpeace also made the link from this illegal war to the escalating price of fossil fuels.
“This illegal war has disrupted oil, gas and fertiliser supplies, exposing Luxon’s Trump-like obsession with outdated fossil fuels, leaving New Zealanders paying the price,” continued Dr Norman.
“Luxon has collapsed the EV market by killing the clean car discount, making it cheaper to import gas guzzling cars. He’s ended public transport subsidies for young people, blocked funding for cycleways, but wants to spend billions of dollars to build new roads.
“Now Luxon wants to expose us even further to the volatile global fossil fuel market by charging New Zealanders a gas tax to build a LNG import terminal.
“The Luxon government should be investing in renewable energy and the electrification of transport to insulate New Zealanders from energy supply shocks and rising energy prices, as well as cutting climate pollution,” says Dr Norman.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/greenpeace-thousands-call-on-christopher-luxon-to-condemn-the-illegal-attacks-on-iran-by-trump-and-israel/

Posted on

Justice Issues – A positive direction for abuse survivors, but nowhere near where it should be

Source: Ihorangi Reweti Peters – a State care survivor and advocate.

The Lead Coordination Minister to the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission’s Report into Historical Abuse in State Care and in the Care of Faith-based Institutions, Erica Stanford, announced this morning that the government is taking action to provide redress to survivors of State-run mental health facilities.

Previously, survivors could only seek redress for claims of abuse up to 30 June 2023, the announcement now means that survivors can make a redress claim up until 1 July 2022.

Ihorangi Reweti Peters, a State care survivor and advocate, said, “Whilst this announcement is positive and will provide survivors of abuse in care with redress, we’re still waiting for the government to implement all of the recommendations from the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry.”

“To date, the government has only accepted 7 of the 207 recommendations made by the inquiry and they’ve only implemented 3 recommendations. The Inquiry was the largest and most complex, it examined abuse in both State and Faith-based institutions, and the recommendations from the Inquiry were developed with survivors,” said Mr Reweti Peters.

“This change does not go far enough. He Purapura Ora, he Māra Tipu from Redress to Puretumu Torowhanui, the Redress report from the Inquiry, made 95 holistic recommendations to the government on redress for survivors of abuse in care. Survivors redress needs to reflect the recommendations from both the redress report and the final report of the Inquiry,” said Mr Reweti Peters.

“The Economic Cost of Abuse in Care report by the Inquiry estimated in 2019 that the average lifetime cost for an individual abused in care is $857,000. The redress from all State-run facilities need to reflect the sum from the Economic Cost of Abuse report,” said Mr Reweti Peters.

Notes: 

Economic Cost of Abuse in Care Report – https://www.abuseincare.org.nz/__data/assets/pdf_file/0021/25158/martinjenkins-economic-cost-of-abuse-in-care-2020.pdf

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/justice-issues-a-positive-direction-for-abuse-survivors-but-nowhere-near-where-it-should-be/

Posted on

Universities – Traffic silently killing Aucklanders – UoA

Source: University of Auckland – UoA

Pollution from cars in Auckland is killing around 700 people a year and hospitalising 4,000 more, with health researchers calling for policy changes.

More than 700 Aucklanders die every year from air pollution from traffic, similar to the number who die from smoking cigarettes, with almost 4,000 more ending up in hospital, according to a new report.

Almost all Aucklanders, 90 percent, are exposed to dangerous levels of air pollution higher than international standards.

Nationally, 2,000 people die per year from traffic pollution.

“Because the particles are so small, they are not easy to see, so we often don’t even think about them being there,” says Dr Jamie Hosking, a public health researcher at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.

“Sometimes, when we’re close to traffic, we can smell the exhaust, and that’s when we really notice it. But even when we can’t smell it, it’s still there, putting our health at great risk.”

Petrol and diesel burn to produce noxious gases, chiefly nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and minute particles of soot, smoke, dust and chemicals (PM2.5).

“Because they’re so small, these particles can get right into our lungs and then cross into the bloodstream. They cause health effects through their impact on the lungs, but also on our cardiovascular system – the heart – and can contribute to strokes,” Hosking says.

A report, Our Air, has just been published on Auckland’s air pollution by Healthy Auckland Together a collective of public health researchers and agencies working in the area. (ref. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/687d6be85b66bd72af52a027/t/69b9b755bab9e5730d58c9b8/1773778792896/Healthy+Auckland+Together+-+Our+Air.pdf )

Hosking and fellow public health researcher at the University of Auckland Professor Alistair Woodward will present the report to Auckland Council’s Transport Committee and call for urgent action on Auckland’s air pollution.

Auckland’s air pollution comes partly from household heating but pollution from traffic is by far the biggest cause of illness.

It is estimated traffic pollution causes 6,100 cases and 424 hospitalisations for childhood asthma every year in Auckland.

People in cheaper housing near motorways and busy roads are at extra risk, so there are equity issues.

“It’s often people on lower incomes who end up being more exposed to this dirty air and then having the health impacts as a result,” Hosking says.

What Auckland Council needs to do

The report outlines solutions. The 20 agencies comprising Healthy Auckland Together would like to see Auckland Council:

  • Invest in affordable, clean and frequent public transport services 
  • Introduce equitable congestion charges 
  • Build and maintain attractive footpaths and pedestrian crossings, and protected cycle lanes
  • Improve air quality monitoring 
  • Provide more parks and street trees 

What central government needs to do
Nationally, the government needs to:

  • Raise vehicle emission standards to ensure cleaner vehicles enter the country
  • Update New Zealand’s air quality standards to reflect the latest health evidence
  • Set transport charges – such as fuel excise, road user charges and registration fees – so they properly reflect the health and social costs caused by vehicle emissions.

Air pollution in Auckland results in a significant number of deaths and serious illnesses with unacceptable healthcare and social costs – urgent action is needed.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/18/universities-traffic-silently-killing-aucklanders-uoa/