Category: New Zealand

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Holidays Act reform needs to take a break

Source: NZCTU

NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey is calling on Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Brooke van Velden to pause the proposed reform of the Holidays Act and listen to the concerns of workers.

“The Minister’s desire to introduce a bill to Parliament has got ahead of writing good legislation. We have many concerns about the proposed Bill and have not been consulted properly in its development,” said Grey.

“The Bill as currently written might mean that some workers, particularly vulnerable workers, have their holiday pay reduced. Workers don’t appear to be able to take leave in advance, and their ability to take two weeks of consecutive leave is weakened.

“New Zealanders already work some of the longest hours in the developed world. Burnout and work stress are harming workers and their whānau and costing the economy billions.

“We need to approach change carefully as this Bill will impact millions of Kiwis. Many of the proposed changes seem designed to reduce the benefits that workers deserve during their precious holiday breaks.

“The Government needs to come back to the table, talk with workers and unions, and develop changes that have broad-based support. It does not have the mandate for this Bill.

“There is an opportunity to build an enduring system that delivers for decades to come. Both employers and employees need certainty and a fair deal. The Minister shouldn’t let her desire for speedy reform ruin New Zealanders’ future holiday plans,” said Grey.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/holidays-act-reform-needs-to-take-a-break/

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New equipment boosts ports’ emergency access

Source: New Zealand Government

Access to New Zealand’s smaller ports will be significantly improved by the procurement of a new crane dredging barge, which will ensure vital supplies can be delivered to regional communities cut-off by natural disasters and other major emergencies.

Associate Transport Minister James Meager confirmed the Government’s $8 million Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund co-investment, while visiting Whanganui Port.

“We’ve seen how recent storms and major events like Cyclone Gabrielle significantly impact communities. In many cases the only way to deliver essential supplies is by sea, due to road and rail links being cut off,” Mr Meager says.

“However, there have been cases of vital goods unable to get into ports, including in Greymouth, Whanganui and Ōpōtiki, as the sites require dredging to ensure enough depth for ships’ access.

“It’s not easy or cost-effective for smaller ports to dredge. The current market is focused on high-volume, long-term projects, and often our smaller ports can’t afford or procure the dredging required to keep them navigable and open for business.

“That’s why we’re co-funding a purpose-built crane dredger hopper barge, specifically designed for low-cost, small-to-medium scale work. This is far more commercially viable and technically suited for smaller sites.

“The new equipment will be available for use nationwide, increasing the resilience of regional communities. It will be able to be deployed at short notice, to restore navigable depths so essential supplies can enter and communities can recover sooner.”

The equipment’s total cost is $12.9 million, with the remainder being co-funded by Northland-based marine construction company Johnson Bros Limited. It will be operational in late 2027.

“Our Government is committed to fixing the basics, like port access, and building the future by improving our country’s resilience to natural disasters. This summer’s devastating weather events have only highlighted this need further,” Mr Meager says.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/new-equipment-boosts-ports-emergency-access/

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COVID-19 Inquiry released

Source: New Zealand Government

The final report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 has been released today, delivering an independent account of the pandemic response and its lasting impact on New Zealanders, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“New Zealanders lived through one of the most significant global public health and economic events. They made real sacrifices, and this report is an important step in understanding the impact of the decisions that were made and how we can learn from them,” Mr Brown says.

Key findings from the Royal Commission include:

  • Restrictions were initially balanced, then went too far: COVID-19 restrictions were initially balanced and appropriate but extended beyond what public health advice recommended as the response continued.
  • Economic warnings were not heeded: Treasury advised from the outset that pandemic spending should be timely, temporary, and targeted. The $60 billion COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund spanned 821 programmes, around half of which were unrelated to the pandemic. The Commission found that many investments, including shovel-ready projects, did not meet those tests. The spending that followed drove up house prices and the cost of living for New Zealanders.
  • Public debt has left New Zealand exposed: The Royal Commission has made it clear that the debt accumulated during the pandemic has left New Zealand with less flexibility to respond to future economic shocks, and that prudent fiscal management is required to rebuild those economic buffers.
  • Opportunities to do better were missed: Many opportunities to improve economic decision-making were missed throughout the response, with high-level data failing to capture what was happening on the ground for ordinary New Zealanders.
  • Auckland’s lockdown went longer than advice recommended: Auckland was kept in lockdown and separated from the rest of the country for longer than what officials advised was necessary. A former Minister has since acknowledged that the public health benefits of lockdowns did not emphatically outweigh the costs by the end of 2021, despite Auckland and parts of Northland and Waikato being kept in lockdown.
  • Vaccine mandate advice for under-18s was not made sufficiently clear: Former Ministers were informed of advice against applying a two-dose vaccine mandates to 12-17 year olds due to myocarditis risks. The two-dose vaccine mandate remained, which did not align with this advice.

“New Zealanders supported the initial 2020 response. Communities came together and made sacrifices, and it protected New Zealanders’ lives. But the Commission has also found that restrictions continued longer than public health advice recommended, and that the economic costs were not given sufficient weight alongside the health response.

“New Zealanders remember what that period felt like – not being able to visit loved ones in hospital, struggling to get home from overseas, and keeping children home from school for months.

“Aucklanders experienced this more than most, spending more than six months in lockdown, the longest lockdown of any region in the country, separated from family and missing some of life’s most important moments.

“The report also found that the cost of living pressures New Zealanders are still feeling today – and the ongoing lack of social cohesion for some – are part of that story.

“New Zealanders made enormous sacrifices and placed enormous trust in their government. We owe it to them to understand what happened and learn from it.”

The Government is carefully reviewing the Commission’s findings and expects to outline its response to the recommendations by July, ensuring any future decisions balance the health and economic needs of all New Zealanders.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/covid-19-inquiry-released/

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Tracks reopen as Pirongia storm damage clean-up continues

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  10 March 2026

Pirongia was hit by severe weather on 13 and 14 February and the network of tracks across the maunga were significantly damaged – including slips, downed trees and floodwaters destroying some bridges and steps.

DOC Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones says staff have completed initial assessments on all tracks across the maunga, and several tracks are now able to be reopened.

“The popular Nikau Walk and Loop has reopened – however, visitors should be aware there are contractors working on repairs and there may be pedestrian management in place to ensure visitor safety while machinery is used,” Niwha says.

The Pāhautea Hut and campsite have reopened for booking – but visitor access is now from Waite Rd and only via Ruapane and Tirohanga tracks.

Visitors should return via the Tirohanga and Ruapane tracks to Waite Rd.

No other tracks to the hut are currently open, but over coming weeks DOC will plan for repairs to Tahuanui Track.

“The Mangakara Nature Walk will remain closed for some time, due to the destruction of two bridges. We will need to plan and budget for replacements,” Niwha says.

The Bell Track and Mahaukura Track were significantly damaged by slips and will require further assessment before any decisions are made.

The Hihikiwi Track remains unavailable due to the closures of surrounding public roads.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/tracks-reopen-as-pirongia-storm-damage-clean-up-continues/

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Wrong place for offender, right time for Police

Source: New Zealand Police

An alleged offender attempting to break into cars right under the noses of Police was caught in the act in Henderson early this morning.

Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Nick Salter, says officers were called to an unrelated job at Waitākere Hospital just before 1am.

“As they were leaving units noticed a man riding an electric scooter though the car park,” he says.

“They observed this man appearing to look into vehicles with a flashlight.”

Officers stopped the man and asked for his details, which he provided.

“Our staff discovered this man had a recent fingerprint hit for a burglary in Kohimarama,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“Credit cards and some other items were taken from two vehicles parked at the address.”

When officers informed the man he was under arrest he attempted to flee on the scooter, but didn’t get far.

“One of our constables took off after him and caught up before he could make his escape,” Acting Inspector Salter says.

“He was taken into custody and a search located multiple debit cards that were not in his name.”

Acting Inspector Salter says it was a great result by the officers who spotted the man.

“It is pleasing that we were able to potentially prevent a further offence from occurring that night,” he says.

“This individual now has to answer for his actions in court.”

A 34-year-old man will appear in the Waitākere District Court today charged with unlawfully gets into a motor vehicle, resisting police, possessing utensils for drugs and receiving.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/wrong-place-for-offender-right-time-for-police/

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Battle of Kororāreka remembrance ceremony to mark key moment in history of Aotearoa

Source: Radio New Zealand

People gather at dawn atop Maiki Hill, or Flagstaff Hill, for the 175th anniversary of the Battle of Kororāreka in 2020. Peter de Graaf

A ceremony on a Bay of Islands hilltop at dawn on Wednesday aims to preserve the memory of a war that changed New Zealand history – and make sure the stories are passed on to a new generation.

Early on 11 March, 1845, fighters loyal to Ngāpuhi chief Hone Heke chopped down the flagpole at Russell, then still better known as Kororāreka, for the fourth time.

The felling of the flagstaff was a signal for men led by Hone Heke and Ngāti Hine chief Te Ruki Kawiti to attack the Bay of Islands town.

In the ensuing battle most of the town’s European inhabitants were evacuated to Auckland, and about 20 Māori and 13 Britons were killed.

It was the start of the wider Northern War which raged until early 1846, culminating in the famous, but inconclusive, battle of Ruapekapeka Pā.

Kororāreka Marae chairwoman Deb Rewiri said remembering events such as the Battle of Kororāreka was as important as observing Anzac Day.

“Because if you think about it, the foundation of Aotearoa New Zealand was being played out here in the North at that time,” Rewiri said.

She expected a large crowd for Wednesday’s 181st anniversary because of the nationwide interest sparked by the Battle of Ruapekapeka Pā commemorations in January.

The ceremony would begin at 6.45am with a service at Maiki Hill, or Flagstaff Hill, then continue at Christ Church, New Zealand’s oldest surviving church.

Navy sailor Brandyn Sigley lays a wreath at the HMS Hazard memorial during the 175th anniversary commemorations of the Battle of Kororāreka in 2020. Peter de Graaf

There, members of the Royal New Zealand Navy would lay a wreath at the grave of sailors from the HMS Hazard who died in the battle.

Karakia would also be held at a nearby kōhatu (stone) marking the spot where the first blood was spilled.

Commemorations would wrap up at Haratu Marae, on the town’s waterfront, where children from Te Kura o Kororāreka (Russell School) would raise a new kara (flag) and be presented with a paraikete (blanket) embroidered with their impressions of the battle.

Rewiri said she was inspired to get local children involved after attending Treaty commemorations in Mangungu, in South Hokianga, last month.

The outbreak of war in the Middle East made tomorrow’s ceremony all the more relevant.

“We’re a little bit removed from that, but also I think it’s not so much about a war going on, but there’s certainly levels of deprivation within our own country, so holding fast to the past reminds us of how resilient and purposeful our tūpuna were. Their aim was to help us to grow so that we are all thriving, and this is what we hope to do.”

Kororāreka Marae chairwoman Deb Rewiri. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

She said the reasons Hone Heke and Kawiti went in to battle included what they saw as erosion of their tino rangatiratanga and the government’s failure to adhere to Te Tiriti, signed just five years earlier.

At the Ruapekapeka commemorations in January, Ngāti Hine leader Pita Tipene said economic factors also played a part, with the government’s decision to shift the capital from Ōkiato (near Russell) to Auckland leading to a sharp drop in trade.

Rewiri said during the battle, fighters gave fleeing civilians safe passage out to ships waiting to evacuate them to Auckland.

“They didn’t want to harm those people. Their disagreement was not with them but with the Crown, and that continues today. We’re in 2026 and we still have that battle, back at the Crown.”

Rewiri said there was little parking at Maiki Hill so those keen to take part in the dawn ceremony were encouraged to take one of the shuttles leaving from Haratu Marae and Kororāreka Museum starting at 6.15am.

For those coming across the water, the first car ferry from Ōpua was due to leave at 6am.

The current flagpole atop Te Maiki Hill was erected in 1858 by Maihi Parāone Kawiti, a son of Te Ruki Kawiti, as a symbol of national unity and reconciliation.

It survived a wild fire in 1913 and serious vandalism in 2022.

The new flag to be raised at Haratu Marae, called Kororāreka Whakaora, was designed by Lyall Hakaraia (Ngāti Kuta, Patukeha) of the British Museum.

Rewiri said about 200 people were expected to take part in the commemorations.

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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/2026/03/10/battle-of-kororareka-remembrance-ceremony-to-mark-key-moment-in-history-of-aotearoa/

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ANZCO working to get shipment of beef destined for Middle East back to New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

File image. 123RF

Meat company ANZCO is working to get shipments of beef caught up in the Middle East conflict back to New Zealand to sell on the domestic market.

General manager of sales and marketing Rick Walker said shipments of premium beef cuts that were on the way to Dubai have been parked by shipping companies in various ports.

“We only had a handful of containers on route to Dubai so our exposure is very small compared to some other meat companies but we are now in the process of figuring out what the best alternative is for those containers is – whether we bring them home or we find another market for them.

“It depends on the product and what its end use was going to be, but a lot of it will come back to New Zealand.”

Walker said some of the beef has specific Arabic labelling which would make it difficult to transfer it into other markets.

“So it’s probably easier to bring it back to New Zealand, we can find homes for it here in the domestic market. There’s good demand here, so that’s probably the easiest answer for us at the moment.”

Walker said the containers are chilled so the meat has a shelf life of about 120 days.

“It’s important to remember we are only a week into dealing with this – so we do have time but at the same time we are not going to wait, we want to make decisions pretty quickly.”

So with shipments of meat bound for the Middle East possibly returning to New Zealand – could consumers be in for cheaper cuts? Walker doesn’t think so.

“I think that’s a big step to take, it will depend again on what cuts are coming back, are they chilled? Are they frozen? Every company will then have to make its decision on frozen product. Do you bring it back into inventory and then make a decision what to do with it from there in terms of other export opportunities?

“So in theory, more supply in New Zealand provides the opportunity for lower prices, but it’s hard to see that really playing out at any level that’s going to be material in the short term, particularly when we’ve got very tight livestock numbers here in New Zealand at the moment and very high livestock prices.”

Walker said demand for red meat around the world is high – so going forward any product that would have gone to the Middle East can go to other markets like the US and Asia.

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/2026/03/10/anzco-working-to-get-shipment-of-beef-destined-for-middle-east-back-to-new-zealand/

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Appeal for information, vehicle crimes, Queenstown

Source: New Zealand Police

Queenstown Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspects involved in stealing two vehicles and damaging two others.

The vehicles were seen in the Lake Hayes Estate and Lower Shotover areas overnight on Saturday 7 March and into the early hours of Sunday 8 March.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson, Area Response Manager says at about 1.40am on Sunday morning Police received a call from a resident in Lake Hayes Estate who had heard two cars speeding and what sounded like a crash.

When Police arrived, they saw a silver Subaru Legacy station wagon on Hope Avenue. Police signalled it to stop but the vehicle sped off. Police did not pursue the vehicle due to its dangerous speed. A short time later the vehicle was found abandoned in Ada Place, Lake Hayes Estate. The vehicle had been stolen from Tonis Terrace, Lower Shotover.

A second vehicle involved, a Nissan Tiida, was located abandoned in a park. It had been stolen from Orbell Drive, Lake Hayes Estate.

On the same night Police also received reports of two vehicles that were broken into and damaged on Tonis Terrace, Lower Shotover and Castalia Drive, Lake Hayes Estate.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson says this is a timely reminder to keep vehicles locked and to remove any valuables from vehicles overnight.

Queenstown Police would like to hear from anyone who has information on these vehicles, and are wanting to hear from anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage showing suspicious behaviour in the Lake Hayes Estate and Lower Shotover areas between 10pm Saturday and 4am on Sunday.

Information can be passed through the 105 service using file number 260309/9008 as a reference.

People can also give information anonymously using the Crime Stoppers number 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/appeal-for-information-vehicle-crimes-queenstown/

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Choice, control and certainty through flexible funding

Source: New Zealand Government

Disabled people will have more choice over how they use their flexible funding from April, while keeping the same level of support they receive today, Minister for Disability Issues Louise Upston says. 

“Our Government committed to restoring flexibility, choice and control in a way that was sustainable,” Louise Upston says. 

“The steps we have taken since 2024 to stabilise the disability support system have been successful. Because of this, we can now confirm two things: the current purchasing rules will be removed in April, and people’s flexible funding allocations will stay exactly the same as they are now.

“This means we no longer need to look at what people spent in previous years to set new budgets. 

“People will also get more support, guidance or coaching to manage their flexible funding – in a way that reflects their situation. 

“Flexible funding must still be spent in line with people’s plans, a few things will need pre-approval, and people must stay within their allocated budgets. However, they’ll have more choice and control over the supports that work for them, including respite options for carers. 

“These changes reflect feedback from the disability community last year, and the recommendations of the 2024 Independent Review. 

“In 2024, some difficult decisions were made to limit rapidly rising costs. The 2024 Independent Review found disability support services had unsustainable spending increases, unclear criteria for access to flexible funding, and an unfair postcode lottery for disabled people around the country. 

“Since then, we have made real progress in stabilising services.  

“DSS has strengthened financial controls, budgets and oversight for NASCs, Enabling Good Lives sites and equipment providers, fixed longstanding issues with residential care pricing, and improved the way people’s needs are assessed and funding for supports is allocated. 

“Our Government also provided significant new funding in Budget 2025, with $1 billion to manage demand and inflation pressures. 

“These steps mean the system is financially stable, sustainable, more consistent and easier to use. We can now restore flexibility and choice without creating uncertainty. Disabled people can be confident their support will continue.” 

Editors Notes

From 1 April 2026: 

Flexible funding budgets will stay at each person’s current allocation level.
The purchasing rules will be removed.
Flexible funding must still be spent in line with people’s funding plans, but people will have more choice about what works for them.
People still need to keep their spending within their allocated budgets.
Flexible funding still cannot be used for prohibited items such as alcohol, tobacco and gambling.
A small number of purchases will need pre-approval. For example, international travel or high-cost purchases, or certain kinds of equipment where safety and health need to be considered. 
Hosts will support, guide or coach people to plan and manage their budgets. They will be talking to people about the support they need from April onwards. The level of support people get depends on their situation.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/choice-control-and-certainty-through-flexible-funding/

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Government may offer asylum to Iranian female football players, Seymour says

Source: Radio New Zealand

Iranian players saluting for the national anthem after being reprimanded for not singing in an earlier match. AFP

The New Zealand government may offer asylum to Iranian female football players in Australia who are likely to face persecution if they return to their home country.

The ABC reported that five players are currently being protected by police in Queensland after evading their team handlers at their Gold Coast accommodation.

The players, Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Ghanbari, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramazanzadeh and Mona Hamoudi, refused to sing the national anthem before their opening match with South Korea at the Women’s Asian Cup earlier this month, the ABC said.

It said fears that the players would be targeted by the Iranian regime when they returned home have grown after Iranian state TV labelled them as “traitors,” the ABC said.

US President Donald Trump has urged Australia Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to grant the whole team asylum.

In a post on his social media platform, Trump said: “Australia is making a terrible humanitarian mistake by allowing the Iran National Woman’s Soccer team to be forced back to Iran, where they will most likely be killed. Don’t do it, Mr. Prime Minister, give ASYLUM. The U.S. will take them if you won’t.”

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour. RNZ / Mark Papalii

On First Up, Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour was asked if Australia should grant the players asylum – or if New Zealand should offer it.

Seymour said the Australian government had to make that decision based on law and it didn’t help “for their cousins across the ditch to start lobbying advice at them”.

But Seymour said it was a humanitarian question.

“Any sort-of lay person would sit there and say ‘do they have a well-founded fear of persecution of they return to their home country?’ I think the common sense answer is that they do.

“Would a country like Australia, or New Zealand for that matter, want to help people in that situation? I think the answer is we would, so let’s let the Australian government work through that question according to law as they have to.

“But I think any person looking at it would come to a pretty obvious answer in their heart and mind.”

Seymour said New Zealand has done something similar for refugees/aslyum seekers in the past.

“Perhaps the New Zealand government will do something like that today.”

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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/2026/03/10/government-may-offer-asylum-to-iranian-female-football-players-seymour-says/

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The real price of Buy Now Pay Later

Source: Radio New Zealand

Buy Now Pay Later schemes including Afterpay are popular with consumers, with one million Kiwis using them. Screenshot

Financial watchdogs want the rules about Buy Now Pay Later schemes strengthened, saying the last tweak didn’t work.

It’s been described as both a lifeline, and a trap.

Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) has been in New Zealand for about eight years. It’s still a relatively new product, but one million Kiwis use one of the four companies providing it.

However a new report from Consumer NZ and FinCap, with research done by Victoria University, has raised concerns about the damage BNPLs are doing to some borrowers.

The report says a regulatory tweak in the rules in 2024 did nothing to help prevent harm, and financial mentors report people are trying to break into their KiwiSaver schemes to pay their debt.

The report recommends tightening the rules further to get better protection for consumers.

Today on The Detail, we talk to Michael Saadat, the International Head of Policy at Block, Afterpay’s Australian parent company, who says it’s not necessary for the New Zealand government to bring in any additional regulation.

“We think the evidence and the data should really drive any consideration of whether new regulation is required, and the data clearly shows that additional regulation, when it exists for other credit products, hasn’t delivered better consumer outcomes.”

He says such extra regulation brings additional costs which ultimately have to be passed on to consumers, “but also, we don’t want a situation where for example it’s harder for Kiwis to get access to a product like Afterpay, and that means that they have to go and find alternatives which are much more expensive, much less safe … and we just don’t think that’s a great outcome.

“We think the current regulatory settings have struck the right balance.”

Saadat says the New Zealand regulations are a clear example of how you can balance consumer protections with the need to promote innovation and foster safer consumer products.

He says our credit data collection agency, Centrix, which Afterpay must provide reports to, says New Zealanders who use BNPL products are in a healthy position.

“Traditional credit products like personal loans, credit cards and mortgages actually remain the primary drivers of hardship for New Zealanders.”

Centrix data says that 97 percent of the New Zealand BNPL transactions over Black Friday and Cyber Monday were paid off before or on the dates payments were due.

“Which again tells you that consumers are using the product in the way it was meant to be used. They’re using it wisely, it’s helping them budget for their purchases, and they’re not getting into trouble.

“It really is becoming a really mainstream product that consumers are using to help manage their spending,” Saadat says.

Asked why the bad press and the call for more regulation, he says that “financial mentors are experiencing consumers at the coal face who are in financial difficulty”.

“They would see consumers who’ve gotten themselves into trouble with all sorts of different products that they might have taken up. That is something that informs their approach to these issues, but fundamentally when we’re thinking about what policy settings should be in place, we do need to look across all consumers and understand what the overall consumer experience is.”

The Consumer NZ/FinCap report has three recommendations for Buy Now Pay Later lending.

It wants affordability assessment requirements introduced; a rule that lenders can’t charge unreasonable late fees; and it wants other lending like phone handset deals and in-store payment schemes that have late fees included in credit law protections.

Report author Victoria Stace, a senior lecturer at Victoria University of Wellington whose research is in areas of consumer credit and financial protection, says because BNPL didn’t have an interest component, it was outside of credit rules until 2024, when it was brought within the CCCFA rules – although in a limited way.

“If it’s used well, and you pay off your instalments without defaulting, it can work out better [than credit cards] because it’s an interest-free arrangement,” she says.

However, financial mentors are saying that of the clients they’re seeing with money troubles, more people have BNPL debt as a proportion of their overall debt than before the 2024 regulatory fixes.

Stace also suspects that BNPL credit is being used to pay off other debt.

Check out how to listen to and follow The Detail here.

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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/2026/03/10/the-real-price-of-buy-now-pay-later/

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Suzie Bates, Sophie Devine return for White Ferns series against South Africa

Source: Radio New Zealand

Suzie Bates (R) and Sophie Devine (L) of New Zealand celebrate their win over Pakistan at the 2024 T20 World Cup in UAE. PHOTOSPORT

Former captain Sophie Devine along with veteran batter Suzie Bates return to the White Ferns squad for this month’s T20 series against South Africa.

Devine, Bates, Georgia Plimmer and Flora Devonshire were all unavailable for the current series against Zimbabwe which finishes on Wednesday.

Bates has recovered from a quad injury, Devonshire a broken finger and Plimmer a shoulder injury.

The five match series, which includes double headers with the Black Caps and Proteas, starts in Mount Maunganui on Sunday.

Devine is set to make her return to the side for the first time since the World Cup in India in October, as the White Ferns continue their preparation to defend their title at the T20 World Cup in England later this year.

New Zealand is ranked fourth in T20 cricket with South Africa fifth.

Head Coach Ben Sawyer said the injection of Bates and Devine’s experience could only do good things for the team.

“Their quality on the field really does speak for itself but what they bring to the group culturally is really important for us as a team. I’m looking forward to having them mix in with some of the newer members of the squad.”

New Zealand’s Georgia Plimmer bats DJ Mills / PHOTOSPORT

Sawyer expressed his excitement at having Plimmer available again.

“Her role at the top of the order is a key one and it’ll be great to have her back as we continue to build toward that World Cup later in the year.”

The squad features 15 players, with Auckland Hearts’ Bree Illing and Otago Sparks’ Polly Inglis making way for Devonshire and Canterbury Magicians’ Lea Tahuhu after the first two T20Is.

White Ferns T20 Squad v South Africa

Melie Kerr (C) – Wellington Blaze

Suzie Bates – Otago Sparks

Sophie Devine – Wellington Blaze

Flora Devonshire** – Central Hinds

Izzy Gaze – Auckland Hearts

Maddy Green – Auckland Hearts

Brooke Halliday – Auckland Hearts

Bree Illing* – Auckland Hearts

Polly Inglis* – Otago Sparks

Jess Kerr – Wellington Blaze

Rosemary Mair – Central Hinds

Nensi Patel – Northern Brave

Georgia Plimmer – Wellington Blaze

Izzy Sharp – Canterbury Magicians

Lea Tahuhu** – Canterbury Magicians

*first two T20s only

**last three T20s only

Schedule

Sunday 15 March, 1st T20I’s, Bay Oval

Tuesday 17 March, 2nd T20I’s, Seddon Park

Friday 20 March, 3rd T20I’s,Eden Park

Sunday 22 March, 4th T20I’s, Hnry Stadium (Wgtn)

Wednesday 25 March, 5th T20I’s, Hagley Oval

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/suzie-bates-sophie-devine-return-for-white-ferns-series-against-south-africa/

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Shoes on or off inside? What are the rules?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Across Aotearoa, our indoor shoe etiquette is shaped by culture, faith, upbringing and our own ideas about cleanliness.

Guna Magesan, president of the Hindu Council, says that even if a host tells his whānau shoes are fine inside, they’ll usually remove them anyway. For him, it’s about respect, cultural values, discipline and cleanliness.

It’s a habit of daily life which he says most Hindus, especially those from rural or traditional backgrounds, have become accustomed to, he told RNZ in an email. Even while living abroad, it’s become a tradition passed down through generations, he says.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/shoes-on-or-off-inside-what-are-the-rules/

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Schools bringing in counsellors to deal with harm caused by social media

Source: Radio New Zealand

There are calls for a ban on social media for under 16’s in New Zealand. (File photo) NurPhoto via AFP

Principals of two Auckland schools say they’ve had to hire counsellors specifically for dealing with the harm caused to children by social media.

The principal of East Auckland’s Riverina Primary School, Bryce Mills told Checkpoint children as young as eight were being exposed to extreme online content.

He said his school hired a counsellor to help deal with the damage and he was not the only one.

Auckland’s Whangaparāoa College had hired the equivalent of five school counsellors last year to help teenagers harmed by social media, it said.

It’s prompted calls to push through a ban on social media for under-16s.

It comes days after Parliament’s Education and Workforce Committee released its final report on the inquiry into the harm social media causes for young people, offering recommendations including banning under-16 year olds from social media.

Saasha Jolley is a teacher at Riverina Primary School and she regularly heard students talk about scrolling Instagram, Tiktok and Snapchat as well as gaming online the night before.

Primary school children were using social media apps like Instagram and Tiktok, a teacher said. (File photo) RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

“Roblox in particular is a big one at the moment, in terms of the chatter that happens, the games they have access to.

“I know that it’s both a platform for kids and adults, they can both access it, they can create the games on there, so I guess that makes it a lot more open.”

What the students see and hear online at night arrived with them at school the next day, she said, and they didn’t always understand what they were repeating.

“They heard it from their friend or they heard it from this person online, so they thought that it was okay to say.”

Last year, research from Te Mana Whakaatu the Classification Office, found young people don’t generally go looking for objectionable content.

But it could be hard to avoid when it came up on social media, in group chats, or was shown around in person.

Some examples of this included pornography and real-world violence.

Riverina Primary School principal Bryce Mills said similar content was being seen by children as young as eight at his school.

“There is the odd occasion unfortunately where you do hear some of that sexual stuff coming through as well,” he said.

The school of 150 students was self-funding its own online security system, which costed them $3000 each year.

But Mills said the school couldn’t control what the students saw once they went home for the day.

“I had a parent the other day say to me, that they got up at one in the morning to go to the bathroom and they could see a glowing light from a bedroom.

A child using the Roblox app. (File photo) MARIJAN MURAT

“Their daughter had gone out and got the phone off the dining room table and was on their phone.

“If they hadn’t gone up to go to the bathroom, they wouldn’t have known that. It [happens] behind those closed doors.”

The situation was similar at Auckland’s Whangaparāoa College.

Principal Steve McCracken said he had to hire the equivalent of five school counsellors last year to help teenagers harmed by social media.

It was costing the school hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“I think that it is largely driven by social media and what they see is cool, the people that they see online with rich backgrounds and fast cars and all the bling.”

Last year, Australia became the first country to implement a social media ban for under 16’s, blocking access to sites like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 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://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/schools-bringing-in-counsellors-to-deal-with-harm-caused-by-social-media/

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Advocacy – Government needs to close “back-door” method of restricting rights using proposed “move-on orders” – PSNA

Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa

 

PSNA has written to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith today requesting proposed ‘move-on’ laws will specifically continue to allow free speech and the right to protest under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.

 

The approach to government comes in the wake of last week’s attempt by Christchurch City Councillor, Aaron Keown, to close down Palestine solidarity protests at Christchurch’s Bridge of Remembrance. 

 

As reported on Radio New Zealand Keown is insisting the police are keen to use the proposed new laws to shift protests on:

 

Keown said police told him months ago that they needed powers like the proposed move-on orders, which he believed would help disperse protesters.

Councillor Keown welcomed the newly announced move-on powers, which he believed would “absolutely help” disperse protesters, something Woods (Amnesty International director of advocacy and movement building Lisa Woods) said was of grave concern to Amnesty International.

 

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa’s Co-chair, John Minto says Keown’s statements contradict assurances made by senior police when a PSNA delegation met with them two weeks ago in Wellington to discuss increasing attacks on Palestine solidarity supporters by IDF soldiers and other elements of the pro-Israel lobby. 

 

“At the meeting police specifically told our delegation these ‘move-on’ orders would NOT be used to restrict protest rights.”

 

“So, there is a mass of confusion around over the proposed new law.”

“We need the Justice Minister to use clear wording, when he introduces legislation into Parliament, that anyone exercising their rights under the Bill of Rights Act will not be included.”

 

“We already have many laws which were introduced for a particular purpose, but which have been used to restrict the right to protest – for example trespass orders and ‘unlawful assembly’ provisions under the Crimes Act,” Minto says.

 

“New Zealanders rights to free speech and right to protest in public are under attack. Last year police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority colluded to propose legislation which would have required police permission to organise a protest”

 

“Authoritarian regimes the world over are putting heavy restriction on the right to protest. Many of them claim to be democracies.  It’s important we resist jack-boot policing here.”

 

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/advocacy-government-needs-to-close-back-door-method-of-restricting-rights-using-proposed-move-on-orders-psna/

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Tech – NEW INDUSTRY CODE COMBATS ONLINE SCAMMERS – Tech New Zealand

Source: Tech New Zealand

MARCH 9, 2026 – In a significant milestone for consumer protection, Tech New Zealand has partnered with three of the world’s largest digital platforms to launch the New Zealand Online Scams Code (NZOSC): https://technewzealand.org.nz/the-code/online-scams-code/

Signed by founding signatories Google, Meta and TikTok, the Code entails 38 concrete commitments to combatting online scams, spanning blocking, reporting, takedowns, advertising, email/messaging, law enforcement, intelligence sharing, consumer communications, and future-proofing. The Code aligns New Zealand with international best practice, and is based on Australia’s Online Scams Code, developed by Australian industry association Digital Industry Group Inc. (DIGI).

Tech New Zealand CEO Graeme Muller said the Code, which is voluntary and open to any digital industry organisation to adopt for its own use, significantly raises the level of digital protection for consumers.

“Scammers are sophisticated, well-resourced and operating at scale and New Zealanders deserve an industry that meets that challenge head on. The New Zealand Online Scams Code is exactly that: a practical, public commitment from the digital industry to protect the people who use our platforms every day.”

The Code was launched at Parliament on 9 March 2026 to a gathering of senior government representatives, policy makers and industry leaders from across Aotearoa’s tech ecosystem, united in their belief that protecting New Zealanders online is a collective responsibility.

“This is what good tech looks like in practice: industry and government working together, proactively raising the bar for every New Zealander,” said Mr Muller.

Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson, who is also the lead Minister against scams, said the new code is a key action from the New Zealand Anti-Scam Alliance, launched last year.  

“The Alliance is working to strengthen multiple industry codes of conduct. So far, banks have introduced the Code of Banking Practice, and the telecommunications sector is reviewing its Scam Prevention Code.

“Today’s announcement of the New Zealand Online Scams Code, aimed at digital platforms, provides another tool in the war against scams. We will be monitoring the code’s success, and make adjustments if needed, so that New Zealanders can feel safer online.

“My goal as the lead Minister against scams is to make New Zealand the least attractive target for scammers.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/tech-new-industry-code-combats-online-scammers-tech-new-zealand/

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Legislation – Employment Leave Bill a long-overdue step towards clarity – EMA

Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the Employment Leave Bill, which was introduced to Parliament today, marks a significant and long-overdue step towards fixing a Holidays Act that has frustrated employers and employees for more than a decade.
Alan McDonald, Head of Advocacy and Strategy at the EMA, says it is encouraging to see the reform progressing at pace after several previous attempts stalled.
“Successive governments have acknowledged the problems, but this is the first time in years we’ve seen meaningful progress,” he says. 
“It’s good to see the reforms maintaining momentum as this overhaul has been needed for a very long time.”
McDonald says the Bill’s shift to a standard-hours-based calculation is a major improvement, but one that will require employers and employees to work through the practical implications.
“It significantly simplifies the system for both employers and employees, which is what everyone has been asking for. But there’s still a bit for employers to get their heads around, particularly how standard hours apply to existing arrangements and how employment contracts may need to be updated.”
The two-year implementation window for the new legislation is sensible and gives employers and employees time to adjust to new systems, rewrite contracts, and work through transition issues.
“There are questions that need more clarity as implementation approaches,” McDonald says. 
“In particular, how existing leave balances will be treated, how built-up entitlements will roll over to the new system, and how the rules apply to people with variable or commission-based earnings. Those transition details matter, and employers and employees need certainty on how to manage those changes.”
McDonald says EMA members will welcome the pro-rata approach for sick leave entitlements for part-time workers.
“Ten days’ sick leave for all workers, regardless of whether they work one shift or five, was introduced as a Covid-era measure that we didn’t support at the time. Moving to a pro-rated system for part-time workers is fairer and better reflects the reality of modern work.”
McDonald says the Leave Compensation Payment (LCP) is an important offset to the change for part-time and casual workers, but it’s another new concept employers need to manage.
With the Bill now before Parliament and submissions opening shortly, the EMA is encouraging members to back the reforms.
“Now that we have a workable solution on the table, we want to see the base settings stay in place long enough for the new system to bed in,” McDonald says. 
“The old rules were universally seen as unworkable, but no one wants to finally fix it only to have it quickly changed again.”
He says the submission process is the right time for employers to raise technical issues or propose refinements.
“This is the moment to make improvements. The next few weeks will be important, and we’ll be urging our members to submit in support of the Bill.”
Once the Employment Leave Bill has passed its first reading, submissions can be made to Parliament’s Education and Workforce Select Committee.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/legislation-employment-leave-bill-a-long-overdue-step-towards-clarity-ema/

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Politics live: Christopher Luxon responds to poll result

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance minster Nicola Willis is joining Christopher Luxon at the weekly post-Cabinet media conference, with an update on the economy. But attention is likely to fall on the Prime Minister with questions about his leadership, the polls and Iran.

Follow all the latest news with RNZ’s live blog.

The prime minister is facing disastrous poll numbers, while also dealing with global issues, as missiles continue to tear through Middle Eastern skies.

Pressure is mounting on the Christopher Luxon with a poll result last week putting National in the 20s.

Listen to the PM’s appearance on Morning Report here:

Luxon batted away questions last week about stepping down as party leader following the latest Taxpayers’ Union Curia poll that had National on 28.4 – down nearly 3 points from its poll last month.

Luxon said on Friday evening none of his Cabinet colleagues had told him to reconsider his future, saying “all of them” back him.

He said he was “absolutely not” considering standing down and said he had the skills to lead the National Party and the country.

Luxon also made a personal explanation in the House on Tuesday night, after he stated incorrectly the government was automatically extending visas for people in New Zealand affected by the war in Iran.

RNZ / Angus Dreaver

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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/2026/03/09/politics-live-christopher-luxon-responds-to-poll-result/

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Senior first responder facing child exploitation charges continues to keep name a secret

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man appeared via audio-visual-link at the Christchurch District Court on Monday. RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A senior first responder facing child exploitation charges has elected to have a judge-alone trial.

The man, whose name and occupation are suppressed, has pleaded not guilty to five charges relating to the possession and exportation of child exploitation material brought by Customs last year.

The man appeared via audio-visual-link at the Christchurch District Court on Monday.

He had previously elected a trial by jury but has now opted for a judge-alone trial.

At a court appearance in September, it was revealed the man had been fired from his job.

His lawyer Craig Ruane said the man’s employment had been terminated because the charges “brought his employer into disrepute”.

Ruane said his client had highly developed skills in his industry and publication would hinder him from obtaining employment.

Judge Elkin agreed to extend the man’s interim name suppression until his trial because publication would cause extreme hardship.

The man is on bail ahead of his next court appearance in April.

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/2026/03/09/senior-first-responder-facing-child-exploitation-charges-continues-to-keep-name-a-secret/

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If you drink, don’t drive. It’s a decision that can save a life

Source: New Zealand Police

Canterbury Police remind motorists that drink driving is never worth the risk.

If you’re heading out to enjoy an event, a gathering, or a night with friends, plan a sober ride home for your safety, and for everyone else on the road.

Over the weekend, several well‑attended events were held across rural Canterbury, including at the Lincoln Domain on Saturday evening and in Waipara on Sunday.

Senior Sergeant Rachel Walker says Police were pleased that the events were largely trouble‑free, but that it was disappointing to see that some drivers still chose to consume alcohol and then get behind the wheel.

“These decisions put themselves, their passengers and other road users at serious risk.”

Police commend the many motorists who made the right call by arranging safe transport and driving responsibly but have seen enough when it comes to impaired driving.

“The consequences of crashes caused by alcohol or drugs are devastating,” says Senior Sergeant Walker.

“For whānau, communities and for the emergency responders who attend them.

“Our staff will continue to maintain a strong presence on the roads to educate drivers and prevent harm.

“We see the damage so we’re unapologetic about prevention.”

With several major events coming up, including Supercars, Super Rugby fixtures and two busy long weekends with Easter and ANZAC Day, Police urge everyone to plan before heading out.

“If you’re drinking or using drugs, legal or illegal, don’t drive.

“Choose a sober driver. Call a taxi. Use public transport. Stay the night.

“One decision can save a life.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/if-you-drink-dont-drive-its-a-decision-that-can-save-a-life/