Category: New Zealand

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Man from religious organisation with Pacific links charged with rape, strangulation, indecent assault

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Nate McKinnon

Police have laid several serious charges against a man connected to a religious organisation with links around the Pacific.

Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie said a 45-year-old man would appear in the Christchurch District Court on Tuesday.

“Police executing search warrants have arrested one person from a religious organisation that has a presence in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and Fiji,” Baillie said.

  • Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

    • The man has been charged with unlawful sexual connection, indecent assault, strangulation and rape.

    “Today’s arrest follows a number of allegations, and partner agencies are supporting those that have come forward.

    “It is possible there may be other allegations that we are not yet aware of, and I strongly encourage any survivor to speak with us, should they wish to. Your voice matters, and you will be treated with respect.

    “Our staff who work in this space are specially trained, and any reports will be made in confidence, and we will provide wraparound support.”

    Baillie asked for anyone with information to make a report by calling police on 105 or using police’s online service referencing Operation Aurora, or file number 260319/8197.

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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/2026/03/24/man-from-religious-organisation-with-pacific-links-charged-with-rape-strangulation-indecent-assault/

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Govt. response fails home support workers facing fuel crisis – must do better – PSA

Source: PSA

Time to raise mileage allowance for first time in four years
The Government’s decision to increase income support for low paid workers will not go far enough for 23,000 home support workers hit hardest by sharply rising petrol prices, and that a faster, simpler fix remains available right now.
Today’s announcement on increases to income support for working families fall well short of what home support workers need given many are filling up their own cars at least twice a week and many do not have dependent children.
“This is a really disappointing decision and completely ignores the financial pressure on these essential workers,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi. “These workers have already had their pay equity claim cancelled by this government.
“Nicola Willis promised to help workers ‘acutely impacted’, but she has ignored home support workers. They are low paid, predominantly female workers who provide critical care to elderly and disabled New Zealanders every day. They are the only publicly funded workers required to use their own vehicles in this way. Rising petrol prices hit them directly in the pocket with every shift.
“If the Government is serious about protecting working people from this fuel crisis, it needs to do better and it still can. The Government has a fast, ready fix available by raising the mileage allowance.”
The Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016 requires Health NZ Te Whatu Ora to pay home support workers a mileage rate. The allowance was last adjusted four years ago and is due for review (see explainer below).
“The Health Minister could direct that rate to be lifted immediately, no complicated fiddling with the tax and transfer system, no delay, just fast, real help for the people who need it most.”
Palmerston North home support worker Susan Miers is very disappointed. “It’s not very much really – it’s not going to make a difference to us,” In a typical day, Susan drives between clients across the city and the wider Manawatū region.
“I’m paying $40, $50 more a week than I was just a couple of weeks ago. It’s coming out of my food budget, because it’s the only thing I can change. I’ve already had to borrow money off of people to make things work.”
Fleur Fitzsimons: “The Government has ignored these workers in their time of need, rubbing more salt into their wounds. It’s disgraceful.
“The PSA will continue to fight for workers doing essential mahi in this crisis, workers who have no choice, but to drive to the people they care for every day. They deserve help now more than ever.”
Explainer – In-Between Travel Allowance
What is it? The In-Between Travel (IBT) allowance compensates home and community support workers for the time and vehicle costs of travelling between clients. It is governed by the Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016.
Who does it cover? Around 23,000 home and community support workers who visit the elderly, disabled and injured in their homes, funded by Health NZ, MSD or ACC.
How does it work?
– Workers are paid a flat travel time payment (at their ordinary wage rate) for all trips between clients up to 15km of $2.35.
– It is meant to be a contribution to both maintenance and petrol costs.
– For trips over 15km (“exceptional travel”), workers are paid actual time and distance for that leg based on Google Maps
– Travel to the first client of the day and from the last client is not covered unless it exceeds 15km.
The rate and the problem: The mileage rate is currently 63.5 cents per kilometre – unchanged since March 2022. There have been only two increases in the rate’s entire history (from 50c to 58.5c in August 2020, then to 63.5c in March 2022). The current IRD mileage rate is $1.17 per kilometre (petrol vehicles). Workers are being reimbursed at less than two-thirds of the IRD rate, and with the fuel price spike triggered by the Iran, they are now being reimbursed at well under half their actual costs.
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/2026/03/24/govt-response-fails-home-support-workers-facing-fuel-crisis-must-do-better-psa/

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Social Issues – Where is the support for benefit-dependent households? – CPAG

Source: Child Poverty Action Group

Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) is calling for an increase to the Winter Energy Payment (WEP) to help offset the current surge in an already desperate cost of living crisis for families living on core benefits.
Minister Nicola Willis announced today that from April, 143,000 low-to-middle income families with working parents will receive $50 per week through the In-Work Tax Credit (IWTC).
CPAG spokesperson Isaac Gunson says while today’s announcement will alleviate some pressure in working families, there’s nothing for families relying on core benefits.
“Energy crises affect benefit-dependent families too. Where is their support?”
“Close to a quarter of a million children live in households receiving a core benefit. The idea that no additional support will be made available to that many tamariki is outrageous.”
“Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis stood before the New Zealand public today and pointed to the automatic 3.1% inflation adjustment to core benefits on April 1 as the support they’re offering to benefit-dependent households. In the last three weeks, the cost of 91 petrol alone has climbed nearly 40%, and diesel by more than 80%.”
“Our Income Floor research clearly shows many of those incomes are already woefully inadequate to cover even the bare essentials, in a year where the cost of those essentials, like electricity, meat and poultry, and dairy products, rose faster than inflation.”
Programmes like the Winter Energy Payment (WEP), first announced in December 2017 and introduced the subsequent winter, made statistically significant reductions to two financial hardship measures during winter months, in households with working age recipients of a core benefit.
It is here CPAG believes support should be targeted.
Since it’s introduction in 2018, there has been no increase in the WEP rate, held at $20.46/week ($450.12 total) for single parents with no children and $31.82/week ($700.04 total) for couples and people with children.
Between December 2018 (after the first year’s payment concluded) and December 2025, household energy costs have increased 30%.
During the same period at the gas pump, 95, 91, and diesel have increased 31.3%, 31.8%, and 46.2%, respectively. (Source: Household Energy from SNZ CPI & Petrol from FigureNZ’s visualisation of MBIE data)
“CPAG is calling on the Government to increase the WEP by 30% in time for the coming winter. It’s an approach that aligns with the Government’s move to use already-established systems to support low-income families, but which also recognises the pain being felt in households receiving core benefits.”
This would lift the total WEP payment to $585.16 or $26.60/week for singles, and $910.52 or $41.37/week for couples or people with children.
We’d also ask the Government to consider extending the period of this year’s WEP to 26 weeks, starting in April, bringing the total WEP to $691.60 total for singles, or $1,075.62 total for couples or people with children.
“To shield New Zealand’s most vulnerable from the ripple effects of rising fuel costs, the Government should make its response a two-pronged approach: temporarily increase work-related tax credits and provide unconditional cash support to people on benefits through the WEP.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/social-issues-where-is-the-support-for-benefit-dependent-households-cpag/

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NZNO apologises for abuses in state care

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa NZNO apologises sincerely and unreservedly for the involvement of nurses in historic abuses in state care.
The apology was made in a video by NZNO Kaiwhakahaere Kerri Nuku and published today on the organisation’s website. It has already been shared with survivors and their whānau.
NZNO has also apologised unreservedly for any role nurses may have had in ignoring and not standing up to abuse in state care.
Kerri Nuku says for decades from the 1950s, children in psychiatric hospitals and other state and faith-based care suffered horrific abuse. 
“And among those responsible were nurses-our own profession. Nurses who were entrusted to care, to protect, to heal. Instead, some inflicted harm. Others turned away. This is a double betrayal, because care and compassion are the very essence of nursing. 
“The experiences of survivors, told to the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care, were horrific, she says.
“These children were subjected to electric shocks, painful injections and degrading treatment. Nurses stood by while sexual abuse occurred. Some actively participated.”
Kerri Nuku says most of the children involved were Māori, placed in institutions because they were Māori. 
“Colonisation’s destructive intent was at work, and nurses became instruments of that harm. The scars left behind are not just physical. They are pervasive, lifelong, and intergenerational. Survivors and their whānau still carry the weight of trauma. Many do not trust nurses today – and that mistrust is justified.
“That this abuse occurred and for so long is a national disgrace. It is not only an issue of historical significance, but with abuse recognised up to 2019, it is also a contemporary issue. For this reason, NZNO joins calls for the swift implementation of all Royal Commissions’ recommendations.”
An apology without action is hollow, Kerri Nuku says. “Words alone cannot heal. We commit to ensuring this never happens again.” NZNO’s response is guided by the findings of the Abuse in Care inquiries and the Lake Alice Hospital investigation and is a pledge to:
  • Embed trauma-informed and culturally safe practice in nursing education and professional development.
  • Advocate for a robust redress scheme that meets survivors’ needs and honours international standards.
  • Protect whistleblowers and enforce transparency, ensuring no member can hide from accountability.
  • Collaborate with the Nursing Council of New Zealand to strengthen Codes of Conduct and Ethics, making care synonymous with safety and dignity.
These actions reflect NZNO’s commitment to tika and pono – or justice and truth – and to restoring the trust that was broken, Kerri Nuku says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/nzno-apologises-for-abuses-in-state-care/

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NZ Drug Foundation – Alarming increase in low-level drug prosecutions undermining health efforts

Source: New Zealand Drug Foundation

An alarming increase in drug possession charges is causing harm and undermining progress on health-based approaches, the Drug Foundation says.

New Ministry of Justice data shows 2025 had the highest number of low-level charges for drug possession or use in a decade.

Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says the current approach is clearly not reducing drug use, but it is undermining efforts to reduce harm.

“Criminalising people clearly doesn’t deter use – in fact wastewater data out this week shows drug use is at record levels,” she says.

“What it does do is compound some of the worst drug harms by preventing people from seeking help and putting people through the justice system.”

“Our fifty-year-old drug laws have us stuck in this terrible loop where everyone loses. We are wasting huge amounts of money and Police resource on low-level prosecutions that discourage people from seeking support, and in the meantime drug use and harm are surging. We urgently need safer drug laws to break the circuit.”

The Drug Foundation released a blueprint for drug law reform last year in itsSafer drug laws for Aotearoa New Zealand report. (ref. https://drugfoundation.org.nz/news-and-reports/report-proposes-evidence-based-reform-to-new-zealands-drug-laws )

“The evidence from New Zealand and around the world is clear – we need a step-change in investment into harm reduction and health services, and safer drug laws that encourage people to seek support rather than punish them with criminal penalties,” says Helm.

Polling conducted by the Drug Foundation in 2022 showed 68% of New Zealanders supported ‘rewriting the Misuse of Drugs Act and putting in place a health-based approach’.

The increase in charges comes despite a 2019 amendment to the Misuse of Drugs Act instructing Police that a prosecution should not be brought unless it is in the public interest, and to consider health-centred approaches first.

Helm says the data shows relying on Police discretion isn’t adequate, with low-level drug charges following a similar trend to total criminal prosecutions since 2019.

“Police discretion is not how we should be dealing with such an important issue. The law should very clearly set out when people should face criminal penalties and when a health response is needed.”

Key stats from the Ministry of Justice

  • The number of drug possession/use charges in 2025 is the highest in the last decade: at 8,474 charges. The number of people convicted for drug/use possession in 2025 (3,158) is the second highest in ten years.
  • Nearly two-thirds (65%, or 3,158) of all drug convictions were for drug possession or use as the most serious drug offence. The proportion of possession/use convictions relative to all drug offences is the second highest in a decade. 
  • Each year since 2016, more people have been convicted of low-level drug offences than for supply, trafficking, or distribution combined. In 2025, 3,158 people were convicted of unlawful possession or use of drugs—the highest number since 2016, compared to 1,657 for supply, trafficking, or distribution.

Ministry of Justice data can be found at https://www.justice.govt.nz/justice-sector-policy/research-data/justice-statistics/data-tables/#General

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/nz-drug-foundation-alarming-increase-in-low-level-drug-prosecutions-undermining-health-efforts/

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Advocacy – Call for Ethical Review of University of Otago Corporate Partnership

Source: Statement by the Palestine Forum of New Zealand

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand expresses deep concern regarding the reported partnership between the University of Otagoand Palo Alto Networks, a company with well-documented ties to Israel’s military and intelligence infrastructure.

At a time when the world is witnessing unprecedented devastation in Gaza Strip and escalating violence across the occupied Palestinian territories, such partnerships raise serious ethical questions. Institutions of higher learning are not merely centres of education; they are moral actors with a responsibility to uphold human rights, justice, and international law.

Engaging with companies linked to systems of surveillance, control, and military operations connected to the ongoing oppression of the Palestinian people risks normalising and legitimising these practices. This stands in direct contradiction to the values that universities in Aotearoa New Zealand claim to uphold.

We remind our academic institutions that they carry a duty as the “critic and conscience of society.” This duty requires not only intellectual independence, but moral clarity, especially in times of profound global injustice.

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on the University of Otago to:

Reconsider and suspend this partnership pending transparent ethical review
Engage openly with students, staff, and the wider community
Align its institutional decisions with international human rights principles

We further call on universities and institutions across Aotearoa New Zealand to carefully assess their relationships and ensure they are not complicit in systems that perpetuate injustice.

Our position is grounded in the principles of dignity, accountability, and solidarity. We support all peaceful and lawful efforts, including global civil society initiatives, that seek to uphold the rights of the Palestinian people.

In moments like these, neutrality is not an option. Institutions must choose whether they stand on the side of justice or risk being remembered for their silence.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/advocacy-call-for-ethical-review-of-university-of-otago-corporate-partnership/

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Greenpeace – Worst in a generation, environmentalists slam Fisheries Reform Bill

Source: Greenpeace

The Fisheries Amendment Bill, which will likely have its first reading in parliament this week, is being labelled the worst fisheries policy in a generation by environmental groups who are calling for it to be rejected to protect ocean health.
The bill, pushed by Fisheries Minister Shane Jones, would significantly reduce public input on ocean management and hand unprecedented control over to the fishing industry – while eroding scrutiny.
It includes the proposal to slap a fine of up to $50,000 on anyone sharing cameras on boats footage, reducing public consultation and incentivising trawling ahead of cleaner fishing methods, plus reducing penalties for exceeding catch limits. It is set to go through its first reading in parliament this week. 
 Greenpeace oceans lead Ellie Hooper says: “This bill is a bonfire. It’s a blank cheque written for the trawling industry, that incentivises the most destructive types of fishing and gives the middle finger to New Zealanders who care about protecting the ocean. It is absolutely one of the worst fisheries policies we’ve seen in decades.
 “Nobody voted for this and already we’ve heard strong objections from New Zealanders across the political spectrum – from recreational fishers to environmentalists and ocean advocates. People want a healthy thriving ocean, a move away from destructive bottom trawling, and to know what the industry impact is on the ocean. These amendments are the opposite of that.
“Political leaders must listen to the public and reject this bill. We’ve already seen National admit huge regret over allowing marine protection to be weakened in Hauraki Gulf. Well now’s the time to have a backbone and vote it down. Jones and NZ First are running fisheries management as if they’re employed by the commercial trawling industry.”
Karli Thomas from the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, says more than 100,000 people have called on the government to ban bottom trawling on seamounts, yet the government is ignoring those concerns completely.
“It’s clear that ocean protection, and what New Zealanders want, have been shelved to make way for measures that essentially roll out the red carpet for the commercial fishing industry.
“If this legislation passes it will make it easier for bottom trawlers to carry out wholesale ocean destruction, and evidence of that damage would never see the light of day. Our fishing industry relies on social license and its environmental credentials – but this Bill sets us back decades: literally incentivising the most destructive fishing method, industrial factory trawling, at the expense of those who are trying to fish more sustainably. 
 “We need a healthy ocean where fish populations have a chance to recover, and ocean habitats can thrive. For that to happen the fishing industry must be held accountable. We already know that every year, trawl nets haul up thousands of kilograms of ancient corals, bulldoze the seafloor and kill ocean life including dolphins, seals and seabirds.
“We need more ocean protection, not a weakening of the little protection we already have. Now is the time for politicians to take a stand on behalf of the vast majority of New Zealanders who want to protect the ocean.”
Barry Weeber of ECO said that the legislation was a major step backwards in ecologically sustainable fisheries.
“With the proposed amendments the Minister could ignore the obligations in the principles of the Act that are designed to protect habitats and maintain biodiversity while setting catch limits.”
The proposals also over-turn international obligations including to apply the precautionary approach in making decisions on fisheries management. “The changes give too much power to the Minister while ignoring the needs to consider the impacts of fishing on the marine environment and other interests”, says Weeber.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/greenpeace-worst-in-a-generation-environmentalists-slam-fisheries-reform-bill/

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Greenpeace – We need solutions not bandaids on the energy crisis

Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace is calling on the Government to implement actual solutions to the energy crisis, not just short-term band aids. The Government plans to release its response to the energy crisis today.
“As a nation we need to free ourselves from fossil fuel dependency if we are to deal with the energy crisis and the climate crisis,” says Greenpeace Aotearoa Executive Director Dr Russel Norman..
“The Government has spent two years making the country more fossil fuel dependent. They cancelled cycleways, cut public transport, subsidised new motorways, cut the clean car discount, weakened fuel efficiency standards and increased speed limits.
“The Government cancelled the gas transition plan, the big battery project and wants to spend billions on an LNG import terminal. They blocked offshore wind generation by pushing seabed mining in the same location.
“It is time for them to admit they took the nation down a dead end – a dead end of expensive fossil fuel energy and climate disaster.
“It’s time for Luxon to issue a mea culpa.
“Real solutions mean focusing on transport solutions that reduce fossil fuel dependency such as investment in cycleways, trains, and buses.
“Making buses and trains free immediately would be a good start, as would the rapid rollout of temporary protected cycleways.
“Real solutions mean investing in more renewable electricity generation such as solar and wind, as well as more battery storage.
“And real solutions mean reducing the dependence on synthetic nitrogen fertiliser produced from fossil gas.
“And for goodness sake, let’s stop private jets from refuelling while we are short of jetfuel.
“We have the solutions to free our nation from fossil fuel dependence while cutting our climate pollution and saving ourselves a fortune.
“Now we need the Government to free its policy from the grip of the oil and gas companies.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/greenpeace-we-need-solutions-not-bandaids-on-the-energy-crisis/

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Universities – Climate in the courtroom- UoA

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

Around the world, climate lawsuits are reshaping environmental law. Experts in Auckland are examining what this means for New Zealand.

The effects of climate change, government responses and accountability are debated by politicians, protested in the streets, and increasingly, tested in court.

More than 3,000 climate litigation cases have been filed worldwide, and this month, climate law experts are at the University of Auckland to debate and discuss climate action in the courts at the 2026 Climate Litigation Conference: http://www.auckland.ac.nz/en/law/events/climate-in-the-courtroom.html

As climate impacts intensify, more people are asking judges to decide what governments and companies are legally required to do if they’re involved in climate harm or have a role in addressing its impacts.

University of Auckland environmental law expert and conference co-organiser Associate Professor Vernon Rive says the field is evolving quickly.

He says: “We’re looking at how overseas and international developments shape New Zealand climate law, the limits and possibilities of common law remedies like public nuisance, and how attribution science is being reflected in cases.

“This conference offers rare access to leaders in the field; judges, academics, scientists and legal practitioners, who have front-line expertise and deep knowledge in climate change litigation in New Zealand and internationally.”

Jessica Palairet, Executive Director of Lawyers for Climate Action NZ, is chairing a panel on global trends in climate litigation. She says it’s becoming one of the most important ways climate governance is being contested and shaped worldwide.

“We are living in an era of climate consequences, and climate litigation is one of the most interesting and important responses. These cases test complex legal questions about responsibilities and duties relating to climate mitigation and adaptation.”

Internationally, claims aimed at major emitters are accelerating. Professor Jacqueline Peel, Director of Melbourne Climate Futures at the University of Melbourne and a conference speaker, says a major trend is the increasing emphasis on corporate accountability.

“Increasingly, transnational claims are targeting companies for harms from high-emitting activities.”

New Zealand cases are also informing global debates about what climate harm looks like in law. Simon Ladd KC, Executive Director of the Legal Research Foundation – also co-hosting the conference – points to the landmark Smith v Fonterra lawsuit as an example of a case in which the role of the common law in climate litigation is front and centre.

The lawsuit saw iwi leader Mike Smith sue several private companies, including Fonterra. Smith alleges their greenhouse gas emissions contribute to global heating and harm him, his whānau, descendants, and others.
 
The case, due to proceed in the High Court in 2027, set an important precedent when the Supreme Court permitted the question of whether tort law can, and should, respond to climate change to proceed to trial. The Court also recognised the role that tikanga Māori may play in the development of tort law in New Zealand.

“The common law can develop and evolve, but should it?  If it should, where are the limits? Fundamentally, what is the role of private law claims in meeting the challenge of climate change?” asks Ladd.

Meanwhile, Auckland Law School Professor Caroline Foster is chairing a discussion on the International Court of Justice’s Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and its implications for New Zealand.

Foster is interested in how New Zealand legislators, courts, and decision-makers view due diligence requirements in international law.

“I’m also looking forward to discussions on the relevance of customary international law within the common law, and how the common law can protect New Zealanders’ interests in a stable planet.”

The 2026 Climate Litigation Conference is co-hosted by the University of Auckland’s New Zealand Centre for Environmental Law, Legal Research Foundation and Lawyers for Climate Action New Zealand.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/universities-climate-in-the-courtroom-uoa/

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Economy – RBNZ Governor discusses impact of Middle East conflict on NZ economy

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ)

24 March 2026 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is well positioned to handle the challenges to our price stability and financial stability mandates caused by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Governor Anna Breman says in a speech published today.

“We are likely to see higher headline inflation over the near term, and somewhat weaker growth momentum,” Governor Breman says.

In the speech, Global shockwaves to Kiwi shores: The impact of the Iran conflict on New Zealand, Governor Breman acknowledged the uncertainty and hardship that many households and firms are experiencing at this difficult time.

“There is a risk that global financial stability risks could emerge and affect the cost and availability of funding for New Zealand banks. However, recent stress testing suggests that banks are resilient with strong capital and liquidity buffers, and are well-placed to weather severe geopolitical shocks.”

Governor Breman also set out the framework that the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will use to assess the appropriate monetary policy response to the effects of the conflict in the Middle East on New Zealand’s economy.

“Getting this judgement right is key to avoiding reacting too early to near-term inflation pressures that monetary policy can do little about – or reacting too late if above-target inflation becomes embedded in the economy,” Governor Breman says.

“Most importantly, monetary policy can and should ensure that a temporary inflation spike does not turn into enduring inflationary pressures. The Committee will be vigilant to this risk.

“The best contribution that monetary policy can make to the wellbeing of New Zealanders is to deliver low and stable inflation over the medium term.”

More information

Download the speech – Global shockwaves to Kiwi shores: The impact of the Iran conflict on New Zealand: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=71bf51470e&e=f3c68946f8
April 2026 Monetary Policy Review and OCR: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=5a0b9e5b9e&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/economy-rbnz-governor-discusses-impact-of-middle-east-conflict-on-nz-economy/

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Landlords and tenants to be better off under more effective regulation

Source: New Zealand Government

Landlords and tenants will be better off with effective regulation of residential property managers and organisations under a new Government-backed framework, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka says.

Under the proposed regime landlords and tenants will be able to check if a residential property manager and organisation is registered. There will be a clear pathway to raise complaints, so that property managers can be held accountable if something goes wrong.

“The changes are designed to improve consistency and accountability across the rental sector, while keeping compliance simple and practical.

“A well-functioning rental market depends on trust. Landlords need confidence their funds and assets are being managed properly, and tenants need to know they can rely on their residential property manager to act lawfully.”

The proposed regime will introduce a public register of residential property managers and organisations, alongside clear standards for financial management, conduct and training.

“I have heard concerns from across the sector about poor practices and mishandling of funds. These changes put in place the basic safeguards people expect, including stronger protections for client money and a clear way to raise complaints.”

The regime includes a dedicated Residential Property Managers Regulatory Authority and an independent Residential Property Managers Disciplinary Tribunal to support transparent, consistent handling of complaints.

The framework will:

  • establish a registration system for residential property managers and organisations
  • introduce minimum eligibility, training and experience requirements, that would be set out in secondary legislation
  • set clear requirements for renewals, suspensions, expiries and cancellations of registration
  • require all client funds to be held separately from business accounts, and
  • create a formal complaints and disciplinary process

“Many in the sector support a light-touch model that lifts standards without overburdening the industry. This strikes that balance.”

Strengthening the performance of the rental sector is part of the Government’s wider focus on housing stability and economic growth.

“When the system works well, it delivers better outcomes for tenants, greater certainty for landlords, and a more stable housing market overall.”

Work is underway to progress these proposals into legislation, with further detail to be released in due course.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/landlords-and-tenants-to-be-better-off-under-more-effective-regulation/

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Applications close for Molesworth farm operation

Source: New Zealand Government

The application period has closed for operators seeking to run commercial farming at Molesworth Recreation Reserve, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka says.

“Rangitahi/Molesworth is New Zealand’s largest farm, with a long history of high-country farming alongside significant conservation, cultural and recreation values.”

The Department of Conservation has received five applications through the competitive process.

“It’s encouraging to see a solid level of interest in managing such a large and complex operation.”

Applications will now be assessed against set criteria, with a preferred operator expected to be identified by the end of May.

“Assessment will consider experience, capability and resources, alongside how biodiversity and heritage values will be protected, cultural values upheld, and public access maintained.”

Once a preferred operator is identified, they will be invited to apply for a concession, which will be publicly notified.

The current lease with Pāmu Farms of New Zealand expires on 30 June 2026. Work is underway to ensure continuity of operations during the transition period.

Further information is available on the Department of Conservation website.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/applications-close-for-molesworth-farm-operation/

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‘I got goosebumps’ – Te reo Māori song in new Ryan Gosling blockbuster

Source: Radio New Zealand

A Hollywood film starring Ryan Gosling is drawing attention for featuring the track ‘Pō Atarau‘, believed to be a 1992 recording by Turakina Māori Girls’ College Choir.

Project Hail Mary, about a science teacher on a lone mission to save the Earth, topped the New Zealand box office on its opening weekend – the biggest of the year so far, according to Numero.

Aynsley Broom, a Samoan US-based content creator who reacts to film, TV and books, told RNZ she felt the words were familiar while watching, though was unsure at first because te reo Māori is rarely heard in blockbuster films.

This video is hosted on Youtube.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/i-got-goosebumps-te-reo-maori-song-in-new-ryan-gosling-blockbuster/

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Arrest in Operation Aurora

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie:

Police executing search warrants have arrested one person from a religious organisation that has a presence in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and Fiji.

A 45-year-old man will appear in the Christchurch District Court today charged with unlawful sexual connection, indecent assault, strangulation and rape.

Today’s arrest follows a number of allegations, and partner agencies are supporting those that have come forward.

It is possible there may be other allegations that we are not yet aware of, and I strongly encourage any survivor to speak with us, should they wish to. Your voice matters, and you will be treated with respect.

Our staff who work in this space are specially trained, and any reports will be made in confidence, and we will provide wrap-around support.

Please make a report by calling Police on 105 or using our online service. Click ‘Make a report’.

Please reference Operation Aurora or use file number 260319/8197.

Police will not be making further comment as the matter is before the Court.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/arrest-in-operation-aurora/

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Government’s fossil fuel relief package fails to meet the crisis

Source: Green Party

The Green Party says the Government’s fossil fuel crisis relief package leaves too many New Zealanders behind. 

“The Luxon Government has turned its back on hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders, asking them to foot the bill for Trump’s war on Iran,” said Green Party Co-leader Marama Davidson. 

Green Party Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick says, “The Government’s narrow tweaks to tax credits leaves behind the tens of thousands of people their economic plan has pushed out of work, only to then punish with new obligations and sanctions. 

“So much for planning for the ‘worst case scenario.’ There is no plan to support people onto public transport and reduce fuel demand, no plan to prevent corporations price gouging while families cut back on groceries. 

“Perhaps worse, Luxon has doubled down on his commitment to burn billions of taxpayer dollars on infrastructure that fosters more fossil-fuel dependency and vulnerability, like the LNG import facility and Roads of National Significance. 

“The Greens proposed a sensible plan for free public transport, direct relief for everyone earning under the median income, increased mileage for care workers, more school bus services and a windfall profits tax.” 

“Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis have made the decision to allow the same people they’ve made poorer through their economic decisions to carry the disproportionate cost of this fossil fuel crisis.” 

Green Party Co-leader Marama Davidson said the Government’s package fails to help those hardest hit by the fuel crisis. 

“The Government showed today it is not prepared to match the scale of what people are facing and the crisis New Zealanders are dealing with.” 

“This package does nothing for beneficiaries and their children, retirees, or unpaid carers, who are all left out entirely.” 

“Caregiving is work. Raising children is work. Looking after a parent or a loved one is work. These people are facing rising costs making it more difficult to care for their loved ones. This package does not count any of it.” 

“This is a crisis and the Government’s response will do nothing for most New Zealanders. The situation demands far more than what was announced today.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/governments-fossil-fuel-relief-package-fails-to-meet-the-crisis/

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Watch live: $50 a week for some families as fuel crisis relief package unveiled

Source: Radio New Zealand

People struggling with fuel costs will be eligible for an extra $50 a week – if they qualify for the in-work tax credit.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis announced the support package at Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.

It would be available from April 7 and eligibility would be expanded to an estimated 14,000 families.

Petrol prices in some locations have reached $4 a litre for premium, while diesel is up more than $1 a litre in the past month, Gaspy data shows.

About 20 percent of the world’s supply usually transits through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has cut off in retaliation over the US-Israel attack.

RNZ will be streaming the announcement from 12.30pm and blogging the updates as they happen. Refresh the page if you cannot see the video at the top of this page.

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/2026/03/24/watch-live-50-a-week-for-some-families-as-fuel-crisis-relief-package-unveiled/

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One dead, three injured after overnight crash in Palmerston North

Source: Radio New Zealand

One person died and three were injured after the crash. Supplied / St John

One person has died and three others are injured following a three-vehicle crash in Palmerston North overnight.

Emergency services were called to the crash on Tremaine Avenue, near Malden Street, about 2.30am.

It involved two cars, one of which caught fire, and a utility vehicle.

The crash also caused power to be cut to multiple addresses.

The Serious Crash Unit has carried out a scene examination.

Police are appealing for more information and would like to hear from anyone who may have captured CCTV prior to 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://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/one-dead-three-injured-after-overnight-crash-in-palmerston-north/

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First kaupapa Māori centre for those living with dementia to open in Waikato

Source: Radio New Zealand

The kaumātua involved in the kaupapa at Te Whare Mahara on 21 Ridout Street, Maeroa, Hamilton. Supplied

The first kaupapa Māori centre for those living with dementia will soon open in Waikato.

Around 4500 Māori are currently living with mate wareware, but that number is expected to almost triple – to 12,000 – by 2050.

Research has found that Māori also develop it around a decade earlier than Pākehā.

The Selwyn Foundation has teamed up with Te Kōhao Health to open the Te Whare Mahara wellness centre in Hamilton.

It will be situated in the suburb of Maeroa, where mana whenua, Ngāti Mahunga, led a turning of the sod ceremony on Tuesday.

The site on Ridout Street will be renovated with support from The Selwyn Foundation.

It will open once consent and refurbishment work is completed.

The respite service will integrate te reo Māori, tikanga, and mātauranga Māori into care.

Te Kōhao Health’s managing director, Lady Tureiti Moxon. Supplied/Sarah Sparks

Te Kōhao Health’s managing director, Lady Tureiti Moxon, said it wanted to make kaumātua feel at home, rather than being in a hospital.

“They don’t want to go to a clinical space, or place – they want to go to a house, a home.”

Te Whare Mahara will operate as a day care for kaumātua, as whānau often wanted them to still live at home, Moxon said.

“Whānau often look after their own. They carry that responsibility with love, but it can also be exhausting.

“This kaupapa is about finally giving whānau a break during the day.

“A chance to replenish themselves so they can continue caring for their loved ones.”

Te Whare Mahara is the first of several that The Selwyn Foundation have planned to open – designed with Māori, for Māori.

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/2026/03/24/first-kaupapa-maori-centre-for-those-living-with-dementia-to-open-in-waikato/

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Fatal crash, Tremaine Avenue, Palmerston North

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died and three others are injured following a three-vehicle crash in Palmerston North overnight.

Emergency services were called to the crash on Tremaine Avenue, near Malden Street, about 2.30am. It involved two cars, one of which caught fire, and a utility vehicle.

Sadly, one person died at the scene. Another has serious injuries and two others have been treated for minor injuries.

The crash also caused power to be cut to multiple addresses.

The Serious Crash Unit has carried out a scene examination and enquiries into the cause are ongoing. The reopened about 7am.

Appeal for information:

Senior Sergeant Christine Pinfold from the Central District Command Centre said Police would like to hear from anyone who captured CCTV prior to the crash.

“We believe the vehicles were travelling south on Tremaine Avenue, towards Malden Street when the crash occurred.

“We ask that people with CCTV in the area please review it and contact us if they have video showing two vehicles travelling down the avenue just before 2.30am.”

Anyone with CCTV showing the vehicles is asked to make a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 260324/3928.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/fatal-crash-tremaine-avenue-palmerston-north/

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Watch live: Reserve Bank governor Anna Breman warns of higher inflation, lower growth

Source: Radio New Zealand

  • RBNZ governor says NZ is likely to see higher short-term inflation
  • Rates could rise if there are effects on medium-term inflation or inflation expectations
  • Economic growth likely to be dampened

The Reserve Bank governor is warning of higher inflation and weaker economic growth due to the Middle East crisis.

The Israel and United States-led war against Iran has sent global energy prices soaring due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and attacks on key energy infrastructure in the Gulf.

Economists had already warned of the inflationary impact facing the New Zealand economy.

In speech notes published on Tuesday, Reserve Bank (RBNZ) governor Dr Anna Breman echoed that sentiment.

“We are likely to see higher headline inflation over the near term, and somewhat weaker growth momentum,” Breman said.

Annual inflation was at 3.1 percent in the December quarter, above the RBNZ’s 1-3 percent target band.

The remarks come two weeks ahead of the RBNZ’s next monetary policy decision, where the Official Cash Rate is expected to remain on hold.

“A short-lived disruption and a temporary increase in petrol prices can – and should – be looked through from a monetary policy perspective if it is unlikely to have an impact on medium-term inflation outcomes,” Breman said.

“For this type of disruption, we would likely see higher inflation over the next few quarters, along with squeezed real incomes and demand.”

She said the peak impact of monetary policy on inflation took about six to nine quarters.

“So, tightening monetary policy in response to a short-lived disruption would only dampen growth without materially improving near-term inflation outcomes,” Breman said.

“If there are effects on medium-term inflation or inflation expectations, the appropriate policy response could be to increase interest rates to prevent these second round effects.”

Breman said “it is critical” for monetary policy to be forward-looking and focused on medium-term inflation pressures.

She said global supply chains were feeling the effects of the conflict, and it “will take time for the full effects of this shock on the global economy to play out”.

“We should try to avoid reacting too early to near-term inflation pressures that monetary policy can do little about – or reacting too late if above-target inflation becomes embedded in the economy.”

High near-term inflation, weaker growth

Breman said the higher short-term inflation spike would primarily be driven by higher petrol and diesel prices, which made up about 4 percent of the Consumer Price Index.

Higher fertiliser prices were another factor, and she believed it could take up to nine months to fully pass through to supermarket prices.

“Autumn fertiliser requirements are already on-hand in New Zealand, and fertiliser imports usually decrease over the winter months,” Dr Breman said.

“We expect fertiliser use to pick up for spring planting, which is when we may see more direct impacts on farms.”

Breman said the conflict meant New Zealand’s economic growth momentum would be “somewhat weaker” than the RBNZ’s previous assessments.

The bank’s February Monetary Policy Statement published forecasts of GDP growth of 1.1 percent in the March quarter, and 0.5 percent in the June quarter.

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/2026/03/24/watch-live-reserve-bank-governor-anna-breman-warns-of-higher-inflation-lower-growth/