Category: MIL-OSI

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Giving Western Springs lake a fresh start

Source: Auckland Council

One of Auckland’s most loved and historic waterbodies is getting a much-needed helping hand.

This week, Auckland Council’s Environmental Services and Healthy Waters and Flood Resilience teams will carry out a major pest fish removal operation at Te Wai Ōrea / Western Springs Lake, an important step toward improving water quality and protecting native freshwater species.

Western Springs is no ordinary lake. Known to mana whenua as Te Wai Ōrea, it is the original water source for Auckland and has long been a place of cultural, ecological and community significance. While the city has grown beyond relying on the springs for drinking water, the lake remains a treasured green space and an important freshwater ecosystem.

Over time, however, pest fish such as koi carp and brown bullhead catfish have taken a toll. These species feed by rooting around in the lakebed, stirring up sediment and nutrients that cloud the water and fuel algal blooms.

Matthew Bloxham, Auckland Council’s Senior Regional Advisor Freshwater says koi carp are well known for their negative effects on water quality.

“When left uncontrolled, their feeding disturbs lakebed sediments and harms freshwater habitats. Reducing pest fish numbers is a proven way to help lakes recover.”

Catfish add further pressure by preying on native fish and kōura (freshwater crayfish), and by competing with native species for food.

Western Springs is also home to a regionally significant tuna (eel) fishery, with three species of eel present. Because of this, there is a proposal to declare the lake an eel sanctuary, making protection of the ecosystem even more important.

“This is about looking after taonga species and restoring balance,” says Bloxham. 

“Cleaner water supports healthier eel populations and stronger native biodiversity overall and reduces the botulism risk.”

The operation will be led by a specialist team from the University of Waikato, using New Zealand’s only electrofishing boat of its kind. The technique uses a pulsed electrical current to temporarily stun fish, allowing pest species to be safely collected while native species, including eels, are returned unharmed.

“Electrofishing allows us to capture all sizes and species with minimal harm,” says Associate Professor Nick Ling from the University of Waikato.

“Unlike nets or traps, it’s highly effective while still being safe for native fish, which recover quickly and can be released back into the lake.”

Pest fish removed during the operation will be humanely euthanised and taken off-site to be turned into compost.

The work is scheduled for the week of 9–13 February. Water levels will be temporarily lowered from Sunday to improve the effectiveness of the operation, and parts of the lakebed, particularly at the western end, will be visible during this time.

Cultural monitoring will be carried out throughout the week by mana whenua (Te Ahiwaru).

Councillor Richard Hills says the project reflects a long-term commitment to protecting one of Auckland’s most iconic natural spaces.

“Western Springs is a place many Aucklanders have grown up with,” he says.

“This work shows we’re serious about restoring the lake, supporting native species, and doing the right thing for future generations. It’s good environmental stewardship and it’s the right thing to do.”

With no upstream source for reinvasion, ongoing management and community care, such as not releasing unwanted pet fish, gives Te Wai Ōrea a strong chance to remain a healthy, largely native freshwater ecosystem into the future.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/11/giving-western-springs-lake-a-fresh-start/

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Government – A message from HM King Charles III on the 100th anniversary of the constitutional relationship between Tokelau and New Zealand

Source: Government House

A message from HM King Charles III on the 100th anniversary of the constitutional relationship between Tokelau and New Zealand
To the people of Tokelau, Malo Ni! My wife and I have such fond and lasting memories of meeting members of the Tokelauan community during our visits to New Zealand, and so it gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest greetings to you on the very special occasion of the 100th anniversary of Tokelau’s unique relationship with New Zealand.
The flag of Tokelau depicts a canoe under full sail, voyaging towards the stars of the Southern Cross; stars which have helped Tokelauans navigate the Pacific waters for centuries. On this milestone anniversary, I hope that all Tokelauans can take pride in their nation’s voyage over the past 100 years and your many achievements in that time. The Tokelauan voice is vital on the global stage, reminding the world of the urgency with which we must all act to ensure that the rich natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage not only of your nation, but also of so many small island states around the world, continue to thrive in the years to come.
Although, sadly, I am unable to join you in person as you embrace this opportunity to reflect on the past and look towards the future, I particularly wanted to send you my very best wishes for your celebrations.
CHARLES R.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/government-a-message-from-hm-king-charles-iii-on-the-100th-anniversary-of-the-constitutional-relationship-between-tokelau-and-new-zealand/

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University Research – Stark differences in COVID-19 vaccination rates between Māori and non-Māori, research finds – VUW

Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

A new study analysing COVID-19 vaccine uptake has found markedly lower vaccination rates among Māori, which researchers link to existing inequities in healthcare access.

The study looked at vaccination rates from December 2020 to May 2023, finding 28.4 percent of Māori were unvaccinated during this period, compared with 14.7 percent of non-Māori.

“Based on these numbers, we estimate 78,880 fewer Māori were fully vaccinated than would have been the case if vaccination rates were the same for both groups,” said Dr James Mbinta, lead author of the study and a research fellow at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

The study also found marked differences in rates of partial vaccination, with Māori more likely to receive only the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and not go on to get the second dose.

Enrolment in a primary health organisation (PHO) was flagged as a key factor influencing whether Māori received at least one dose of the vaccine. The study also found those living in lower-income households and in lower-quality and crowded housing were less likely to be vaccinated.

“For Māori, the likelihood of being partially or fully vaccinated was higher among those enrolled in a PHO. This highlights the need for vaccination strategies that include improving PHO enrolment, especially for populations that have a known higher risk of severe health outcomes from COVID-19,” said co-author Andrew Sporle (Ngāti Apa, Rangitāne, Te Rarawa), an honorary academic in the Department of Statistics at Auckland University and managing director of research firm iNZight Analytics.

Previous research has shown Māori have higher rates of both hospitalisation and death from COVID-19 compared with the general population.

“Our findings highlight the crucial need to ensure vulnerable populations can access healthcare. Targeted approaches, using evidence from data generated by rigorous studies such as this, are needed to address health disparities and ensure equitable access to healthcare resources,” said co-author Professor Colin Simpson, a senior adviser in the School of Health at Te Herenga Waka and professor in the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at Auckland University.

 

Results of the study are published in the Journal of the Royal Society of New Zealand. The research was funded by the Ministry of Health.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/university-research-stark-differences-in-covid-19-vaccination-rates-between-maori-and-non-maori-research-finds-vuw/

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ASB Bank posts $765 million half-year profit

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Marika Khabazi

ASB Bank has reported a flat half-year profit as higher expenses offset higher improved lending and margins.

Key numbers for the six months ended December 2025 compared with a year ago:

  • Net profit $765m vs $763m
  • Cash profit $719m vs $714m (excludes one-offs)
  • Total income $1.84b vs $1.78b
  • Operating expenses $839m vs $695m
  • Bad debt provisions $3m vs $17m
  • Net interest margin 2.35% vs 2.29%

The bank’s profit showed improvement in key areas of increased lending, larger margins, and improved income, but was balanced by a significant rise in expenses because of the settlement of the a class legal action over credit disclosures.

Chief executive Vittoria Shortt said the bank was seeing signs of economic improvement and that was flowing through into business.

“We are seeing more confidence in the economy, supported by lower interest rates and good export earnings in key sectors.”

“This is evident in the uptick we’ve seen in business lending, with more lending growth across small business, commercial and rural this half than in the previous financial year,” Shortt said.

Overall lending rose 6 percent to $118.7b, with housing loans up 8 percent, and rural and business lending 4 percent.

Total customer deposits rose 5 percent.

Banks have been competing for market share in the housing market, amid falling interest rates and large numbers of borrowers refixing their mortgages.

Net interest income – the difference between what the bank borrows at and charges for loans – increased 8 percent, while net interest margin, regarded as a measure of profitability, rose six basis points to 2.35 percent because of timing effects from interest rate hedges.

The amount set aside for bad and doubtful debts fell to $3m from $17m.

Expenses surge on case settlement

ASB’s operating expenses surged 21 percent to $839m, mostly because of the $135.6m out of court settlement of a class legal action brought by former consumer for alleged breaches of credit disclosure rules.

ASB never accepted liability, but said the settlement was a “pragmatic” way to settle the issue.

Shortt said ASB had spent more on improving its anti-scam defences and engaging with affected customers.

She said the bank, owned by Australia’s CBA, was also improving its technology to simplify its processes and offer better products to customers, as well as advance its own lending for social housing and business technology investment.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/asb-bank-posts-765-million-half-year-profit/

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Banking – ASB half year result: Supporting our customers for long-term prosperity

Source: ASB

ASB has reported a cash net profit after tax (NPAT) of $719 million for the six months to 31 December 2025, up 1% on the prior comparative period.  Statutory NPAT was $765 million.

Since December 2024, home lending has grown 8%, while business and rural lending grew by 4%.  Total customer deposits increased by 5%.

Net customer margins remain flat, reflecting higher home lending margins and lower deposit margins.  Net Interest Margin (NIM) was up 6 basis points driven by higher earnings due to timing effects from interest rate hedges.

ASB KiwiSaver Scheme funds under management grew by more than $1.7 billion to more than $20.6 billion, thanks to continued strong returns to customers and top quartile performing funds.[1]  Collectively, ASB Group Investments manages more than $31 billion for investors across its range of five products.

Operating expenses were $839 million, an increase of 21% largely driven by the settlement of the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 class action proceedings, and investments in people, technology modernisation, digital experience and regulatory compliance.

Chief Executive Vittoria Shortt says “While the geopolitical outlook remains uncertain, we are seeing more confidence in the economy, supported by lower interest rates and good export earnings in key sectors.  This is evident in the uptick we’ve seen in business lending, with more lending growth across small business, commercial and rural this half than in the previous financial year.

“We remain well positioned to support our personal and business customers as they continue to tackle higher costs, navigate volatility or transition to growth.”

Investing in our customer experience

“We continue to make significant investments so customers choosing to bank with ASB have a simple and modern experience, where they feel informed and confident about making important financial decisions and safer knowing we actively seek to protect them from fraud and scams.

“Through our technology modernisation we are simplifying the way we work and the services we provide, removing overlap and complexity and offering products that might better suit our customers’ changing needs.

“We have a focus on service excellence and meeting customers’ expectations of faster and simpler processes, with quicker decisions on their home loan applications.  Building on our capability for single home loan applications to be started digitally through the ASB Mobile App, in November we extended this functionality to include joint home loan applications.  Customers can track the progress of their application and view indicative pricing in the ASB Mobile App, so they remain informed at every step.”

Further customer protections

“Fraud and scams remain an issue for New Zealand, and we continue to seek to make banking with us safer with enhanced customer protections against economic crime.

“We are now able to share data between banks related to digital fraud and money mule activity through the Fraud Reporting Exchange and New Zealand Data Exchange.  We remain available to assist customers 24/7 on our 0800 ASB FRAUD line.”

 Investing in New Zealand

“While we’ve seen business lending growth pick up, with increases across agricultural and property lending, for long-term prosperity New Zealand needs to become more productive.

“We are backing business customers to boost their productivity using artificial intelligence and technology in partnership with the New Zealand Product Accelerator and universities.  Following a successful pilot, the programme is being scaled up this year to match up to 100 ASB business customers with AI, business analytics and data science masters’ students to work on their business.

“We are continuing to show up for rural New Zealand with offerings to help with transformation and succession through our Every Hectare Matters programme, and reduce costs with ASB’s Smart Solar 0% lending to assist the switch to renewable, resilient energy.  We are supporting the future of the dairy industry and empowering the next generation of farmers towards the goal of farm ownership with financial support and expertise in partnership with the New Zealand Dairy Industry Awards and Fonterra.

“These initiatives are highly valued by the rural sector, as a result we have grown our rural lending more than any other bank in the 12-months to September 2025.[2]

“Long-term prosperity also requires that we have enough housing to support our growing population and easier access to more affordable housing solutions.  We have doubled our commitment to $1 billion to accelerate the development of social and affordable housing and the long-term delivery of thousands of new homes.  To date we have committed $517 million for social and affordable housing, and this half we committed nearly $50 million to a Māori social housing provider in Tāmaki Makaurau to deliver more than 150 homes.”

Saving for the future

“Regular savings provide a pathway to long-term financial wellbeing and broader economic resilience for Aotearoa.

“We have put a lot of effort into the ASB Investment Funds and the ASB KiwiSaver Scheme so we can offer competitive investment options for customers.  We have multiple top performing KiwiSaver funds with low fees, and this is a powerful combination that can make a big difference for our nearly half a million ASB KiwiSaver Scheme members who stand to benefit when purchasing a first home and/or in retirement.

“We remain focused on how we can help tamariki build financial literacy and early savings habits.  In November, we reintroduced our Kashin moneybox to celebrate ASB’s 150 years of supporting Kiwi kids to get one step ahead with money.  We’ve seen a notable increase in the opening of new Headstart accounts, helping children to start their savings journey.  We continue to support the delivery of financial education nationwide with nearly 45,000 students participating this half in our GetWise and Tikitiki o Pūtea programmes in schools.”

 

[1] ASB KiwiSaver Scheme Conservative, Moderate, Balanced and Growth funds are in the top quartile for 12-month performance to 31 December 2025, Morningstar KiwiSaver Survey (Dec 2025).

2 RBNZ quarterly release, 12-months to September 2025.

 

Income Statement ($ millions)

 

 

 

 

 

For the half year ended 31 December

2025

2024

Dec 25 vs Dec 24 %

 

Net interest income

1,602

1,471

9

 

Other operating income

233

233

–

 

Total operating income

1,835

1,704

8

 

Operating expenses

(839)

(695)

21

 

Operating performance

996

1,009

(1)

 

Loan impairment expense

(3)

(17)

(82)

 

Net profit before tax

993

992

–

 

Corporate tax expense

(274)

(278)

(1)

 

Cash net profit after tax (“Cash profit”1)

719

714

1

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reconciliation of Cash profit to Statutory profit

 

 

 

Cash profit

719

714

1

 

Reconciling items:

 

 

 

 

Hedging and IFRS volatility2

7

(7)

large

 

Notional inter-group charges3

53

71

(25)

 

Reporting structure differences4

6

6

–

 

Tax on reconciling items

(20)

(21)

(5)

 

Net profit after tax (“Statutory profit”)

765

763

–

 

 

 

 

 

 

Performance indicators (cash basis)

 

6

 

Net interest margin (%)

2.35

2.29

6 bpts

 

Return on assets (%)

1.0

1.1

(10) bpts

 

Operating expenses to total operating income (%)

45.7

40.8

490 bpts

 

Return on average total equity (%)

12.0

12.6

(60) bpts

 

 

 

 

 

 

Statutory Balance Sheet ($ billions)

 

 

 

 

As at 31 December

2025

2024

Dec 25 vs Dec 24 %

 

Advances to customers

118.7

111.6

6

 

Total assets

139.7

131.9

6

 

Deposits and other borrowings

94.5

94.8

–

 

Total liabilities

127.4

120.5

6

 

 

 

  1. Cash profit reflects the Banking Group’s underlying operating results and excludes items that introduce volatility and/or one-off distortions which are not considered representative of ongoing financial performance. These items are calculated consistently year on year and do not discriminate between positive and negative adjustments.
  2. Hedging and IFRS volatility includes unrealised fair value gains or losses on economic hedges that do not qualify for hedge accounting and unrealised fair value gains or losses on the ineffective portion of hedges that do qualify for hedge accounting under NZ IFRS. These fair value gains or losses are excluded from Cash profit/(loss) since the asymmetric recognition of the gains or losses does not affect the performance of the Banking Group over the life of the hedge.
  3. This represents the recognition of a notional cost of capital from the ultimate parent and other allocated costs which are not included in Statutory profit. Comparative information (including the tax impact) has been restated to conform to presentation in the current period. As a result, the return on average total equity and operating expenses as a percentage of total operating income have been restated accordingly.
  4. The results of certain business units within the CBA Group are excluded from Cash profit for management reporting purposes but included in Statutory profit.

 

 

 

[1] ASB KiwiSaver Scheme Conservative, Moderate, Balanced and Growth funds are in the top quartile for 12-month performance to 31 December 2025, Morningstar KiwiSaver Survey (Dec 2025).

[2] RBNZ quarterly release, 12-months to September 2025.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/banking-asb-half-year-result-supporting-our-customers-for-long-term-prosperity/

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Equal employment opportunities

Source: Privacy Commissioner

This policy outlines the commitment of the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) to equal employment opportunity, diversity and inclusion and to eliminating the barriers that cause or perpetuate inequalities in employment.

OPC aims to provide equal employment opportunities to make the most of the talents of all our people and attract top talent to the organisation. This policy applies to all OPC employees, including those on secondment to us.

Policy Statement

OPC is committed to upholding its responsibilities as an Equal Employment Opportunities employer and creating a workplace that attracts, retains and values a diverse workforce. 

2.2.    To achieve this OPC seeks to:  

a)    provide equal opportunities for recruitment, retention, development, and promotion of all its current and prospective employees, regardless of gender, sex, marital status, religious/ethical belief, ethnic or national origins, disability, age, political opinion, employment status, family status, or sexual orientation

b)    develop and maintain a workplace culture that values and supports diversity and inclusion

c)    ensure that it provides a safe, supportive, and healthy environment for all employees that is conducive to quality service delivery

d)    provide a workplace that welcomes, respects, and includes rainbow and takatāpui communities 

e)    identify and seek to eliminate all aspects of policies and procedures or other institutional barriers that cause or perpetuate inequality in respect of the employment of any person or group of persons

f)    ensure all staff appointments are made solely on the basis of merit, and that all promotions, advancements, salary reviews and professional/career development opportunities are based solely on merit

g)    seek to improve employment opportunities for groups who are traditionally under-represented in either occupational groups or levels of seniority, in particular women, Māori and Pacific people

h)    not tolerate any form of unfair discrimination in the workplace on any ground, including gender, sex, marital status, religious/ethical belief, ethnic or national origins, disability, age, political opinion, employment status, family status, or sexual orientation

i)    promote equal employment opportunities as an integral part of OPC workplace policies and practices

j)    monitor, review and evaluate progress towards achieving equal employment opportunities. This includes assessing and, if required, reducing identified gaps at all levels of the organisation.

Responsibilities 

General Manager

Framework development, implementation and compliance monitoring. Progression against OPC’s Kia Toipoto and DEI Action Plans.Supporting and training for OPC leaders and teams.

Managers

Creating an environment that promotes EEO/diversity. Understanding their obligations under applicable legislation and processes and ensuring compliance.Ensuring that all practices and procedures that apply to the staff for whom they are responsible are consistent with this policy.

All employees

Accountability for themselves and their activities to act in accordance with our EEO principles and OPC values.

References

Relevant Legislation

Persons/ Areas affected All OPC employees and secondees
Contact General Manager
Approval authority Senior Leadership Team
Last review date February 2026

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/equal-employment-opportunities/

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Nearly 40,000 more building products approved

Source: New Zealand Government

Thousands more plumbing and drainage products already used widely in Australia can now be accessed easily by Kiwi tradies and do-it-yourself homeowners.  
 
“The Government is focused on fixing the basics and building a better future for New Zealand, and that means making it easier and more affordable to deliver the homes and public buildings that will ease house prices and lift living standards,” Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.  
 
“It’s great to see the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) recognise a second tranche of overseas building products certified under the reputable Australian WaterMark scheme, issuing 54 recognition notices that cover around 38,274 products. 

“A first round in October made it easier to bring more than 90,000 WaterMark-approved products onto the market, including tapware, water service products, and sanitary and stormwater drainage products. 

“While these materials are already tried and tested in Australia and familiar to many tradies in New Zealand, Kiwi builders and designers previously had to individually demonstrate that each product met Building Code requirements when applying for consent to use it. 

“By amending the Building Act through the Overseas Building Products Amendment Bill, MBIE can now recognise building products already certified under overseas schemes in comparable countries in the tens of thousands, rather than one at a time.
 
“The granting of these recognition notices means Building Consent Authorities must accept the products as compliant, reducing unnecessary red tape, costs, and delays while allowing a more diverse range of materials to be used. 

“Supply chain shocks and shortages choke building productivity. Better access and greater choice provide industry with more resilience and increases market competition to put downwards pressure on prices for tradies and homeowners. 

“As MBIE continues to review overseas building products under the new law, tradies and homeowners can expect even better access to essential materials, including plasterboard, cladding, windows, and doors.”

Notes to editor:  

  • “Recognition notice” is the official term for approval of an overseas building product or standard by MBIE. 
  • Notices are not a blanket approval for all WaterMark certificates. Only products that have a valid, up‑to‑date certificate listed on a current notice can be used as meeting the required standards. 
  • Recognition notices are now publicly available at www.building.govt.nz, along with a diagram showing how these overseas standards fit within New Zealand’s building regulatory framework. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/nearly-40000-more-building-products-approved/

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What’s point of external review of Govt. anti-strike facebook adverts with no finding of fault? – PSA

Source: PSA
The independent review of the Government’s controversial facebook adverts opposing the nationwide strikes last October is a waste of public money with no finding of fault able to be found.
Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission released the terms of reference yesterday, but dated 18 December. It states, ‘The reviewer will not make any findings of fault’ and will not consider the actions of anyone outside the commission or Ministers.
“The terms of reference are way too narrow and will not help in ensuring lessons are learned,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“Excluding findings of fault is a joke. What is the point if fault cannot be found and learned from?
“We have a costly review that seems more aimed at protecting Ministers and others than learning lessons.
“Workers have a right to strike, this should be the fundamental starting point.
“The Employment Relations Act requires the Commission, like all public sector employers, to negotiate and behave in good faith – the review needs to consider how the adverts undermined this clear obligation.
“Running a public relations campaign against workers rather than focusing on negotiating in good faith was wrong. Further they compromised the Commission’s duty to be politically neutral.
“The review is a waste of public money. The Government should have simply admitted it made the wrong call, apologised and said it won’t happen again.”
The PSA stands ready to assist the independent reviewer to better understand the Commission’s damaging actions.
Previous statement
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/10/whats-point-of-external-review-of-govt-anti-strike-facebook-adverts-with-no-finding-of-fault-psa/

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No dog, no – more “canine tourists” seen in cars in the Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  11 February 2026

Pets are not permitted in New Zealand’s national parks or on DOC land where dogs are prohibited – even if the hounds are inside vehicles – and owners could face a $400 infringement fee.

DOC Principal Investigations Officer Marlous Heijs says staff at Aoraki/Mount Cook are seeing more canines in cars because they’re monitoring vehicles during the paid parking pilot running at Whitehorse Hill.

Staff have issued seven infringement notices in less than two months.

“We know this is an issue right around the country, but over the past couple of months our staff have seen it first hand at Aoraki, where they’ve spoken to people and gathered information and evidence,” she says.

“Some of the photos are quite classic. The dogs are clearly enjoying hanging out the windows and taking in the mountain air – but the issue of dogs in national parks is serious.”

“The rules are there to protect our precious native species. Dogs are loveable and popular pets, but they can have a massive impact on protected birds, plants and animals – and any pet can make a mistake and attack wildlife, defecate or dig something up,” she says.

A report compiled and released by DOC’s National Compliance Team in October 2025 revealed 75 recorded incidents of dogs attacking, killing, or harassing wildlife between 9 September 2020 and 12 August 2025.

“People sometimes plead ignorance of the rules or try and argue their pets staying in the vehicle don’t present an issue, but we’ve seen dogs being let out to have a run around and to toilet,” Marlous says.

“There is also an animal welfare issue, given how long it takes to drive to Aoraki and the amount of time people spend there,” she says.

Last December the SPCA issued a media release asking people to be more aware over summer about the risk of leaving their pets in cars during the hot December/January months.

SPCA receives hundreds of calls every summer about dogs left in hot cars – a preventable and heartbreaking welfare issue.

“You wouldn’t leave a child in a hot car,” says SPCA CEO Todd Westwood. “Please do the same for your furry family members.”

Todd says SPCA is reminding the public even on mild days, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly. On a 21°C day, a car parked in the shade with windows down can still reach more than 31°C in just 10 minutes, and more than 40°C in 30 minutes.

“Dogs cannot cool themselves effectively in enclosed spaces. Panting alone is not enough. Parking in the shade or lowering windows does little to reduce the risk.”

Marlous says she’s surprised at what some pet owners do and it’s not just dogs. People have brought in cats and even goats into various national parks around the country wanting to walk the tracks.

She says it’s a pet owners’ responsibility to do research before taking pets onto public conservation land.

Roads running through some national parks in New Zealand are administered by Waka Kotahi/NZTA and as public roads, you are permitted to drive through them with a pet in your car. Aoraki/Mount Cook is not one of them.

“Many of the roads within Aoraki Mount Cook National Park are administered by DOC and are known as a ‘park road’. This includes most of the roads within Mount Cook Village and the road to White Horse Hill Carpark where many short walks start. These roads are part of the National Park therefore the same rules apply (no dogs in vehicles). These are all well signposted, and there is plenty of information online about where you can (and can’t) take your dog.”

Marlous Heijs says the clear message for everyone is pet owners have a key role to play in looking after nature.

“Our message is ‘leave your dog at home if you’re going naturing in a national park’. There are plenty of other places to go with your dog, but this isn’t one of them.”

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/no-dog-no-more-canine-tourists-seen-in-cars-in-the-aoraki-mount-cook-national-park/

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Person dies days after Wellington motorway crash

Source: Radio New Zealand

The person died in hospital from injuries sustained in the crash. (File photo) RNZ / Nate McKinnon

One person has died after a crash on Wellington’s State Highway two at the Ngauranga Interchange on Sunday.

Emergency services were notified of the crash about 2am.

One person had now died from their injuries, police confirmed.

Police continued to investigate the circumstances of the crash.

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/2026/02/11/person-dies-days-after-wellington-motorway-crash/

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Finance Minister promises to release data showing gas plan will lower power bills

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance Minister Nicola Willis. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Finance Minister Nicola Willis has committed to releasing all the calculations which she says show the government’s new gas plan will reduce New Zealanders’ power bills.

The government is pushing ahead with plans to build a new liquefied natural gas (LNG) import facility in Taranaki, funded by a charge levied on electricity companies.

Labour was quick to label the levy a “gas tax” which would be passed on to consumers, driving up power bills.

But speaking on Morning Report’s politics panel on Wednesday morning, Willis said the official advice was that the new facility would provide more energy security, ultimately bringing bills down.

“At the moment, in New Zealand, everyone pays a big risk premium for the fact that everyone is desperately worried that in the days when there’s not enough rain in the lakes and the sun’s not shining and the wind’s not blowing, we do not have enough gas.”

Willis said that risk premium would go down once the plant was built around 2028.

“The advice we’ve received… is that the reduction in the risk premium will far outweigh the cost to the energy generators of supporting the development of the LNG plant.

“We did all the analysis because we wanted to be clear that there would be more benefit than cost – and the analysis is very clear.”

Labour Party energy spokesperson Megan Woods. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Responding, Labour’s energy spokesperson Megan Woods said that was “absolute nonsense”.

“This is putting a gas tax on New Zealanders at a time when they’re already struggling with their power bills. The government hasn’t released the modelling. They haven’t shown us the alternatives they looked at.”

Woods said National was scrambling for solutions after cancelling Labour’s whole work programme on affordable energy storage.

“They are going for an expensive option that is going to be… taxed on New Zealanders each and every month, on their power bill, because this government has failed to do the work.

“There’s a reason they didn’t release the modeling yesterday with all the other papers.”

Willis said the government would release that modelling “pretty shortly”.

“But let’s just remember: Labour’s decisions pushed power prices up. Our solution will save Kiwis money,” Willis said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/finance-minister-promises-to-release-data-showing-gas-plan-will-lower-power-bills/

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How to limit processed meats for lunch

Source: Radio New Zealand

I have a confession to make.​

I buy myself a really expensive prosciutto that is cured only with salt. My kids, on the other hand, are fed ham and salami with ingredients that have a long list of weird chemical-sounding additives like pyrophosphates and polyphosphates hidden behind the numbers like E451 and E452. My prosciutto is merely considered processed, whereas what I feed my kids reaches the level of ultra-processed. 

Look here, people, my prosciutto is more than $100 a kilo, and I buy the tiniest amount each week. Grocery store ham or salami costs a little over $30 a kilo.

A sandwich with layers of ham and mayonnaise.

victor_16605

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/how-to-limit-processed-meats-for-lunch/

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How to set RNZ as your preferred source when you Google Search

Source: Radio New Zealand

The ‘preferred sources’ feature lets you customise your results. Unsplash

A new Google feature lets you choose which publishers you want more of in your Search results, offering you a more personalised experience.

The ‘preferred sources’ feature lets you customise your results and by selecting RNZ as yours, you’ll see more of our articles in Google Top Stories and Search results, which means more of our great journalism.

As New Zealand’s independent non-commercial public media organisation, RNZ serves as a platform for topics that matter to New Zealanders, delivering a diverse range of content that reflects who we are for over 100 years.

To make sure you see more of RNZ’s content in search results It’s really simple; just click here and type RNZ into the box, tick the box next to rnz.co.nz, and you’re done.

Alternatively you can:

  • Open Google and search for any topic, e.g. “NZ news”
  • Click on the Cards star icon on the right of Top Stories
  • Search for RNZ and tick the box
  • Click “Reload results”

Once you select sources, those publishers will appear more often and more prominently in the Top Stories or the dedicated “From your sources” section of the Search results page – it’s that easy.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/how-to-set-rnz-as-your-preferred-source-when-you-google-search/

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What’s happening to the future of NZ Post services in New Zealand?

Source: Radio New Zealand

NZ Post is undergoing a change to its services as mail volumes drop. RNZ / Richard Tindiller

Explainer – NZ Post is closing service counters and cutting delivery days. What is the future of mail going to look like?

So, is mail delivery as we know it just going to vanish?

Not so fast, says NZ Post CEO David Walsh, who says the agency is in the midst of a massive transformation in the face of rapidly dropping mail numbers.

“New Zealanders are communicating differently,” he said.

“I think we’ve all experienced that in our personal lives as well, and that change has been going on for quite some years.”

Here’s what you need to know about how NZ post is changing.

What’s happening to NZ Post?

The agency is in the middle of what it’s called “a period of transformation,” shifting its emphasis towards parcel delivery and consolidating many of its services.

In October, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment approved changes to the Postal Deed of Understanding between the Crown and NZ Post, allowing them to change some of their procedures.

The changes approved include:

  • Permitting a minimum frequency of 2 days delivery to urban, PO Box and private bag addresses, or 3 days for rural. The days must be spread throughout the week. Formerly, 3 days per week urban and 5 days rural were required.
  • Allowing a minimum 500 total postal service points, then down to a minimum of over 400 after four years. Previously a minimum 880 points were required.
  • The ability to convert up to 5 percent of delivery points to communal points annually.

For consumers, this boils down to likely fewer delivery days and postal counters.

Deed change doesn’t automatically result in operational change to NZ Post’s services, Walsh has said, but it gives the network more flexibility to make changes.

It announced back in 2024 that it would be gradually combining its two separate mail and parcel networks into one operation.

“For customers – this means your mail and parcels will eventually be delivered by one person, rather than two separate deliveries made by a Postie and a Courier,” Walsh has said.

That’s all basically because mail volumes have dropped dramatically.

Ponsonby Post Office shut down recently, part of a series of closures. Screenshot / Google Maps

How bad has it gotten?

“It wasn’t that long ago we were delivering 700, 800 million mail items a year,” Walsh said. “We think in the next 12 months that could be well under 150 million mail items.”

According to NZ Post’s latest annual report, 158 million mail items were delivered in fiscal year 2025, down from 187m in 2024, while 88 million parcels were delivered, up from 84m in 2024.

“Parcels have grown significantly over the last three or four years, and mail has declined significantly in the same time,” Walsh said.

New Zealand addresses currently receive less than two letters each per week, compared to 7.5 in 2013, a spokesperson told RNZ.

The service has started to move back upwards after heavy losses – after a $56m loss in 2023, there was a $14m loss in 2024, and a $2m loss in 2025, according to their annual report.

The transformation toward parcel delivery is still in progress, Walsh said.

“When and how that happens we’re still progressively working our way through change, but that will depend on where volumes get to over the next few years. It’s too early to say exactly when.

“We believe it’s a good solution to maintain a great mail service.”

Consolidating parcel and mail delivery into one would be more economical, he said.

“Having one person deliver down the street is clearly more efficient than having two, so that is the goal.”

NZ Post will streamline mail and parcel delivery together. NZ Post

So, we’ll get mail less often?

Although the changes to the Deed of Understanding now lets urban delivery be as few as two days a week, that hasn’t happened so far.

“We haven’t moved to twice a week yet, that is still something that will respond to as we see changing demand for mail services,” Walsh said. “If there is a permanent change in frequency we will certainly communicate that in advance.”

It’s hardly a transformation unique to New Zealand. Mail services around the world have been dealing with lower volume and higher costs. Last year, Denmark became reportedly the first country in the world to end its national letter delivery service entirely.

John Maynard of the Postal Workers Union of Aotearoa recently criticised some of the cuts and changes on RNZ’s Midday Report.

“It’s one thing that people will want to use emails over the old traditional mail system, but it’s quite another thing for a state-owned enterprise to act in a manner which consistently undermines people’s confidence in an institution.”

There have been concerns that plans could end letterbox deliveries for some people. Mathyas Kurmann / Unsplash

Could you no longer get mail delivered to your house?

That’s one of the concerns raised by the union to RNZ late last year.

The Deed of Understanding now allows for up to 5 percent of delivery points annually to be changed to communal points – such as a cluster of boxes which service multiple addresses on a street.

Maynard told RNZ the suggestion to stop delivering to individual home letterboxes was “sort of hidden away in the document”.

“Putting the letterboxes in clusters makes it easier for the company to sack all the posties and have them delivered by vans which wouldn’t have to stop at your house, they’d put your mail at the end of the street,” he said.

However, Walsh said, the changes were more geared towards new developments, such as entrances to apartment buildings.

“There is both what the deed permits and what I expect us to continue to do”.

NZ Post also said in a statement, “we do not have widespread plans to move to communal delivery, and customers who currently have an individual letterbox can expect their delivery to continue as normal.”

While the deed does allow for consolidation of some delivery points, Walsh said, “From the perspective of NZ Post, if you’re in urban New Zealand and you have a letterbox outside your house, it’s almost certain we will continue to deliver to your house.”

However, he said NZ Post needs flexibility for new subdivisions or developments in rural areas.

“That will mean that we can continue to offer good service to those areas.

“As more households come on, that’s more points for us to deliver, but every site is having less mail be delivered too, so that makes it incredibly expensive for us to maintain to those new sites being developed.”

The Deed of Understanding says that “Any proposed change requires reasonable notice and community engagement before any conversions.”

The Auckland NZ Post processing centre. Nick Monro

What about my local post shop? Is it closing?

NZ post also announced recently that it would close 142 service counters in convenience stores, pharmacies and libraries around the country, leaving 567 still operating.

Walsh said NZ Post had a “robust process” looking at what services were being used the most and where, when it came time to decide on closures.

“The data I have at the moment is that about around 90 percent of urban New Zealanders will be within 4km of a retail site” once the changes are in effect, he said.

To find out what’s happening in your area see the NZ Post Website list.

NZ Post says it has invested $290 million into infrastructure and automation.

NZ Post has also opened up new retail hubs for sending, collecting and returning parcels in Auckland, with more planned around the country, and five large processing centres.

How will these changes affect people who rely on the post?

The decision to close outlets has upset some smaller communities, who worry about the impact on older customers or those without easy access to alternatives.

Manjit Singh has a postal service in his shop in the rural Waikato town of Te Kauwhata, and told RNZ recently the decision to close it “doesn’t make sense to me at all”.

“Right opposite my shop, there’s an old-age home, and people quite enjoy our service. They will have to go to Huntly or Pukekohe.”

“It’s easy for millennials and younger generations, but older people will really struggle,” Springfield Superette owner Raj Kumar of Rotorua told RNZ recently.

Stuart Dick is the chair of the board at the Magazine Publishers Association and general manager at Are Media which publishes weekly magazines including the New Zealand Women’s Weekly and the Listener.

“It is concerning that NZ Post are neglecting their core service and customers by reducing delivery days,” he said.

“Thankfully there are alternative delivery networks growing to provide some coverage, and the majority of magazines are sold via retail outlets.

“However this does not absolve NZ Post of their core purpose to ‘Deliver what people care about’ which includes the magazine subscriptions that our readers love, along with many other things Kiwis rely on their national postal network to deliver.”

Walsh said NZ Post was aware of those concerns.

“We will continue to work with those senders that have specific time requirements around them. We may not have perfect answers for everyone but we are absolutely committed to working with those senders to see what we can do to support their requirements.”

He said NZ Post’s goal was to make the changes with as little disruption as possible.

“It’s not easy, it’s clearly going to have impacts on some people, but we’re trying to get that balance right.”

Will mail ever go away entirely?

Asked if NZ Post as we know it is just going to vanish entirely at some point, Walsh said it was simply responding to changes in the culture.

“The way New Zealanders communicate, what they choose to receive, is choices that we don’t make, so we are responding to those changes and that’s really what we’re reflecting.”

NZ Post’s pivot to parcels also means it is more directly competing with services such as Aramex and DHL.

“It is a very competitive delivery market out there,” Walsh said.

“I’m proud of how well NZ post both competes and operates. We have made some pretty significant investments over the last few years to make sure we can continue to scale up our parcel and parcel delivery services.”

However, the Postal Union’s Maynard told Midday Report he was still concerned about what the future might hold.

“I think we’re going to see some more reductions in NZ Post services allowed for under the deed. I think this sort of thing will continue, pressure from the government, for NZ Post to cut costs and give the cash back to the government.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/11/whats-happening-to-the-future-of-nz-post-services-in-new-zealand/

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Minister to attend Munich Security Conference

Source: New Zealand Government

Defence Minister Judith Collins departs today for Germany to attend the international Munich Security Conference. 

“In a turbulent and unpredictable world, the Munich Security Conference is an important opportunity to debate key security issues that impact New Zealand,” Ms Collins says.

“This year the conference brings together global decision-makers and military leaders from more than 100 countries, working to bolster cooperation, collective security and the peaceful resolution of conflicts.”

During the three-day conference Ms Collins will hold bilateral meetings with a number of New Zealand’s long-standing defence partners, including the United Kingdom’s Secretary of Defence, John Healey, and NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte.

She will also speak at a session focused on the interconnected nature of security challenges in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions.

“I look forward to sharing New Zealand’s perspectives on a range of international issues, particularly the interconnected security challenges facing both of our regions such as Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and escalating strategic competition. 

“As a small nation reliant on trade at the bottom of the southwest Pacific, we must take every opportunity to sit at the table and advocate for our interests and values.”

Ms Collins will return to New Zealand on 16 February.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/minister-to-attend-munich-security-conference/

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One dead, two critical after Wairoa crash

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Patrice Allen

One person has died and two others remain in critical condition following a crash in Wairoa.

Police say the crash was reported to emergency services around 3pm on Tuesday.

The crash closed the intersection of Black Street and Archilles Street on State Highway 2 for a period while the Serious Crash Unit investigated.

Police said the death would be referred to the coroner.

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/2026/02/11/one-dead-two-critical-after-wairoa-crash/

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98 per cent of potholes repaired within 24 hours

Source: New Zealand Government

Around 98 per cent of potholes on state highways are now being fixed within 24 hours of being identified each month, showing the Government’s drive to fix the basics on New Zealand’s roads is paying off, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Lifting productivity to help rebuild our economy and build New Zealand’s future remains a major focus for this Government, and accelerating pothole repairs and preventative work is essential to maintaining a safe, reliable state highway network that underpins that growth.

“When New Zealanders made it clear they were frustrated with unprecedented numbers of potholes appearing across the country, we introduced new requirements for NZTA contractors: 95 per cent of potholes on main state highways and 85 per cent on regional state highways must be repaired within 24 hours of discovery.

“To get on top of the issue, we created a dedicated $3.9 billion Pothole Prevention Activity Class over three years, specifically for resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance. This ensures the funding is used solely for preventing potholes. With roughly $2 billion allocated to state highways, NZTA has been delivering an extensive programme of work, including consistently high volumes of road rehabilitation, a process that rebuilds full road sections rather than relying on resealing alone.

“Over the summer, the Government’s Pothole Prevention Fund is supporting 290 lane kilometres of rehabilitation work, similar to the substantial amount completed last year. Keeping rehabilitation levels this high will significantly reduce the likelihood of potholes forming.

“The improvements are clear. Since the targets came into effect, NZTA has consistently met them each month, supported by smarter repair techniques that make temporary fixes last longer until permanent work can be completed, instead of relying on simple cold-mix patches,” Mr Bishop says.

“Meeting these targets month after month shows how far we’ve come in addressing the pothole problem. New Zealanders can now travel more safely and smoothly, with fewer delays and hazards on the road.

“If you spot a pothole on the state highway network, please report it straight away by calling 0800 4 HIGHWAYS (0800 44 44 49). With everyone’s help, potholes can be found and repaired as quickly as possible.”

Notes to Editor: 

  • Due to reporting reconciliation, total pothole figures since July 2024 have been updated in the last quarter.
  • NZTA has delivered on the Government’s 24 hour pothole repair targets each month since they were introduced, exceeding the targets set in July 2024.
  • Potholes tend to be formed in wet conditions, which is why there are a higher number requiring repair in winter months.
  • The Pothole Prevention Activity Class includes $2 billion of funding for State Highway Pothole Prevention over three years, and $1.9 billion for local road Pothole Prevention over three years.
  • The summer maintenance programme began in October 2025 and will be completed by March 2026.
Month Total Potholes Repaired % Repaired Within 24 Hours
Jul-24 7112 95%
Aug-24 6360 98%
Sep-24 5122 98%
Oct-24 4850 98%
Nov-24 3234 99%
Dec-24 1758 97%
Jan-25 1840 98%
Feb-25 1157 97%
Mar-25 1449 98%
Apr-25 2648 99%
May-25 3877 98%
Jun-25 5250 99%
Jul-25 7041 98%
Aug-25 4697 98%
Sep-25 4882 97%
Oct-25 4691 98%
Nov-25 2445 98%
Dec-25 1711 98%

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/11/98-per-cent-of-potholes-repaired-within-24-hours/

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Energy Sector – Power prices predicted to surge – Consumer NZ

Source: Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ expects power prices to increase by about 5% in 2026 – a blow to households already hit with a 12% increase to power bills last year.

Households should brace for another big bump in power prices in the year ahead. The price predictions from Consumer NZ come at a time when nearly half of all New Zealanders are concerned about the cost of their household energy.¹

“Power bills are hiking up because of an increase in lines charges’ costs – that’s the cost of delivering power to your house, and it’s the amount on your bill that stays the same regardless of how much power you use,” said Paul Fuge, Powerswitch manager.

The lines charge makes up just over one-third of the power bill, and a small hike to that fixed cost makes a big difference to monthly bills.

Consumer recommends budgeting for an increase to power bills from the end of April. Customers can expect line charges alone to climb by an average of $5 per month through to 2029.  

“The lines charge will add an average of $5 per month to your bill, but this figure will vary depending on where you live and who your retailer is. As well as the fixed costs, we expect consumers will face increases to the cost of the electricity they use too,” said Fuge.

Why power prices keep going up

The cost of running and maintaining the electricity networks has increased, and this cost flows through to people’s power bills.

“It’s an unfortunate reality that households are being asked to shoulder higher charges to have electricity delivered to their homes. But at the same time, heavy rainfall over summer – so extensive that major hydro lakes are spilling water –has driven down wholesale electricity prices. Those lower generation costs should be easing the pressure on consumers by offsetting these rising lines charges. That doesn’t seem to be happening. And that’s deeply unfair.”

The impact of ever-increasing power bills

Consumer’s research found that, last winter, one in five New Zealanders went to bed early to stay warm, one-quarter of people went without heating when it was cold and nearly one in five people cut back on food or other essentials to pay a power bill.²

“These drastic measures to manage power bills are not limited to one age group – young adults, older New Zealanders and everyone in between are being forced into uncomfortable and sometimes unsafe choices.  

“Based on our price predictions for 2026, we think the situation will only get worse,” says Fuge.

Consumer’s tips for managing power price surges

Check you’re on the cheapest plan – Power retailers are constantly changing their offers. Just because you picked the cheapest plan last year, it doesn’t mean it’s the best plan available now. You can find if there’s a plan that’s better for you through the free and independent power comparison website Powerswitch.

Keep your eye out for April price rises – Power retailers typically increase their prices from April. Mark a date in your diary for after 1 April to check in with Powerswitch to see if there are further savings you could make by switching then.

Understand your power usage – If you can do most of your power-hungry activities, like running your washing machine and dryer, in off-peak periods, you could make big savings. Off-peak periods are usually late at night, the middle of the day and weekends. You need to be on a time-of-use plan to save the most from your off-peak power usage. Being careful with when you use your power could potentially help you offset the price rises that we are predicting.

Notes

¹ Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker January 2026
² Consumer NZ Sentiment Tracker October 2025

Consumer NZ’s Sentiment Tracker is an online survey based on a nationally representative sample of the New Zealand population. Results are weighted by age, gender and region based on Stats NZ 2018 Census data. Respondents are sourced from Dynata, an external panel provider. Surveys are conducted quarterly with at least 1000 respondents, with a margin of error of +/-3.1%.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/energy-sector-power-prices-predicted-to-surge-consumer-nz/

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Govt Cuts – MSD plan to cut security guards risks repeating mistakes of the past – PSA

Source: PSA

The PSA is calling on the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to pause a proposal to cut security guards from three to two at 20 offices around the country until the union is satisfied that proper risk assessments have been carried out.
MSD is planning to introduce the two-guard model at smaller centres across the country from Waiuku through to Gore (see note below).
“Every worker deserves to be safe at work, and this decision risks repeating the mistakes of the past,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The PSA formally asked for site specific risk assessments to be undertaken in a letter to MSD on 3 February 2025.
“The PSA met with MSD this week to discuss concerns that the proposal to reduce security guards was developed without consultation with workers who would be most impacted.
“MSD claims to have undertaken a site assessment, but this has not yet included consultation with workers on the sites or the union. The voice of workers and the union is critical for risks to be properly considered.
“We have asked for a copy of the so-called site assessments so we can determine if they adequately assess risk facing our members. MSD has not agreed to provide the assessments but has agreed to discuss them further with the PSA.”
MSD has now committed to engaging with PSA members at each site which is a welcome development, but we have no commitment that decisions to reduce security guard numbers will be re-visited.
“We remain concerned that the approach from MSD disrespects the vital role security guards play in keeping both MSD workers and members of the public safe. They can de-escalate tense situations before they spiral out of control.
“People often come to MSD offices at the most stressful times of their lives – dealing with unemployment, housing insecurity, or financial hardship. Sometimes they take their frustrations out on frontline staff.
“In an environment of increased unemployment and lack of housing, this is exactly the wrong time to be reducing security.”
The PSA will continue to press MSD for specific risk assessments that reflect the concerns of workers for each of the 20 impacted sites before the proposal can be finalised.
Note: the impacted offices are in Alexandra, Balclutha, Cambridge, Dannevirke, Feilding, Foxton, Gore, Greymouth, Marton, Matamata, Ngāruawāhia, Ōtaki, Queenstown, Stratford, Taihape, Te Kūiti, Wainuiomata, Waitara, Waiuku and Westport
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/govt-cuts-msd-plan-to-cut-security-guards-risks-repeating-mistakes-of-the-past-psa/

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Real Estate – Does size really matter? In the New Zealand property market – yes, it does!

Source: RealEstate.co.nz

Kiwis prepared to pay almost 50% more for a three-bedroom home
Getting the bedroom/bathroom combo right can add up to half a million to a home’s price
Renovations can pay dividends, but not all are created equal

Latest data from realestate.co.nz shows an extra bedroom can add anywhere from $150,000 to more than $450,000 to a home’s asking price.

In 2025, the national average asking price for a two-bedroom home was $640,794. This increased to $844,009 for a three-bedroom home, an increase of 31.7%. But the real gains come with the addition of a fourth bedroom, with the average asking price increasing 44.1% to $1,216,635.

 Vanessa Williams, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says the price increases highlight how additional space remains a key driver for property value.

“Kiwis are still attracted to more space and see value in that, whether it’s to accommodate a growing family, work-from-home flexibility, or future-proofing an investment.”

However, it is the combination of bedrooms and bathrooms where the biggest gains can be seen.

In 2025, the average asking price of a 3-bed 2-bath home was $987,609. This increased by almost 40% to $1,376,229 for a 3-bed, 3-bath home, a difference of $388,620.

For a bigger home, the average asking price of a 4-bed, 2-bath home was $1,173,682 but increased 44% to $1,690,982 with a third bathroom, a difference of more than half a million dollars.

Within every bedroom category, adding bathrooms pushes prices significantly higher – showing that bathrooms are a major price driver across all home sizes.

Not all upgrades are equal: know your market

Williams says for those homeowners considering a renovation, look at the bigger picture before picking up a hammer, because a reno isn’t always a sure-fire way to increase their sale price.

” We know bedrooms and bathrooms affect average asking prices but before homeowners embark on a renovation, liveability needs to be factored in. An odd layout that adds a bedroom or bathroom but reduces living, dining, or entertaining space, or negatively impacts the flow within a home, is less likely to bring the gains owners are hoping for.”

“Not all renovations are created equal, as buyers are drawn to homes that suit their lifestyle. We always encourage homeowners to think about who they’re renovating for – themselves or future buyers.”

About realestate.co.nz | New Zealand’s Best Small Workplace (2025)

Realestate.co.nz – your home for property search.  

We’ve been helping people buy, sell, or rent property since 1996. Established before Google, realestate.co.nz is New Zealand’s longest-standing property website and the official website of the real estate industry. We are certified carbon neutral (2024 & 2025) and in 2025, realestate.co.nz was crowned Best Small/Micro Workplace in New Zealand by Great Place to Work.

Dedicated only to property, our mission is to empower people with a property search tool they can use to find the life they want to live. With residential, lifestyle, rural and commercial property listings, realestate.co.nz is the place to start for those looking to buy or sell property.    

Whatever life you’re searching for, it all starts here.  

Want more property insights?  

Market insights: Search by suburb to see median sale prices, popular property types and trends over time.  

 Glossary of terms:  

Average asking price (AAP) is neither a valuation nor the sale price. It is an indication of current market sentiment. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with the sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold. As it looks at different data, average asking prices may differ from recorded sales data released simultaneously.  

Price drop reflects the difference between a property’s original asking price when listed on realestate.co.nz and its price at the point of sale or withdrawal. While it doesn’t show the final sale price, it provides a strong signal of how much sellers are adjusting to meet buyer demand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/real-estate-does-size-really-matter-in-the-new-zealand-property-market-yes-it-does/