Politics – Page 22 – MIL-OSI Export

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The government is considering scrapping the clean car standard altogether, months after slashing the fees importers pay to bring dirty vehicles into the country.

An EV advocate said if the proposal goes ahead, New Zealanders will be sold “the high-emitting leftovers” that manufacturers can no longer sell in Australia.

The Motor Industry Association said it wants to keep the standard, but it needs “recalibration” to make sure it works for importers, car distributors, and consumers.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop said the government is carrying out a first principles review, so “obviously” an option to scrap the standard is on the table.

Introduced by the previous government, the Clean Vehicle Standard charges importers a penalty for cars that exceed the target emissions level, but that can be offset by also importing cars with lower emissions.

Transport Minister Chris Bishop. RNZ/Marika Khabazi

That penalty was slashed by nearly 80 percent last November, with Bishop saying supply constraints meant importers could not source enough low-emissions vehicles to avoid being penalised.

That could result in thousands of extra dollars being passed on to buyers, Bishop said.

He said then that a full review of the standard would follow this year but it was unlikely the standard would be removed entirely.

RNZ has learned that a targeted consultation carried out for that review has just ended, which included asking submitters whether the standard should be “abolished”.

The consultation included the motor vehicle industry, international bodies, other government agencies, some advocacy groups, and subject matter experts, but was not open to the public.

In a letter seeking submissions, the Transport Ministry said the review was being carried out in two stages.

Stage one was “a first principles review of the standard … to enable Cabinet to decide to either retain the standard or abolish it”.

Submitters were asked if they supported New Zealand retaining a fuel efficiency standard, and what the risks would be if it was abolished.

It would make New Zealand just one of two OECD countries to not have a vehicle emissions standard – the other is Russia.

Bishop said he had not received advice on the review, but would have more to say once the government had considered it and made decisions.

“If legislative change is required, I expect there would be a select committee process and public submissions.”

Drive Electric was among EV advocacy groups asked to submit.

“We’re really alarmed that there’s the potential of removing the standard completely, because the rest of the world is going in the other direction,” chairwoman Kirsten Corson said.

Australia had just reported the first six months of data since making its fuel efficiency standard mandatory, she said.

“Their overall emissions are dropping, and two-thirds of the car-makers could meet the 2025 emissions targets.”

The changes in New Zealand were due to “spectacular lobbying by some high-emissions vehicle importers”, Corson said.

“It’s interesting that it’s working perfectly well in Australia.”

Drive Electric’s submission warned that Australia’s success made it even more likely that New Zealand would become a “dumping-ground” for less efficient cars.

“This ‘gravity effect’ ensures that while Australians get the latest, most efficient technology from Thailand and Japan, New Zealanders are sold the high-emitting leftovers.”

The government’s claim that car-buyers would be charged thousands of dollars more if the penalties had not been cut was “a false economy”, Corson said.

“[Higher-emissions cars] are a cheaper price to purchase but they cost more to own and more to operate.

“You just have to look at what’s happening with oil prices.”

New Zealanders’ tendency to keep their cars for years meant petrol cars coming into the country today would hang around for decades, she said – costing their owners more to fuel and adding to New Zealand’s emissions.

A slump in demand for EVs had been driven directly by the government’s decision in 2023 to also end the Clean Car Discount, Corson said.

She wanted to see a tweaked version of that re-introduced, potentially targeted at the 70 percent of new car sales that go to businesses,

“If you could have some sort of incentive for businesses … to encourage adoption of EVs by that first-hand business fleet, because they are flipping their fleet typically within three to five years.”

In a statement, Motor Industry Association (MIA) chief executive Aimee Wiley said her organisation supported retaining the standard, “with the emissions trajectory recalibrated to reflect domestic affordability and realistic product availability”.

The framework needed to be “credible, stable, and workable in New Zealand’s small, import dependent market”.

“This is not about reducing ambition,” Wiley said.

“It is about ensuring the settings work for importers and distributors as well as consumers, are durable over the long term and aligned with market realities, including affordability, supply, and demand conditions.”

Stability and clarity were particularly important, she said.

The industry supported aligning with Australia if it reduced “regulatory friction” but New Zealand’s rules needed to reflect the country’s own market conditions.

“We remain committed to constructive engagement with the Ministry [of Transport] to ensure the CVS scheme continues to support steady, measurable emissions reduction in a way that provides certainty for industry and consumers.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/05/government-considering-scrapping-entire-clean-car-standard/

March 5, 2026

NZ-AU: Clean Group Achieves Top Commercial Cleaning Recognition in Sydney Through Triple ISO Certification and Eco-Friendly Practices

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

SYDNEY, NSW, March 04, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SYDNEY, NSW – March 04, 2026 – –

Clean Group Commercial Cleaning has been recognized as Sydney’s leading commercial cleaning provider for 2026 by Kinross Research, marking a significant milestone for the family-owned company that has served the Greater Sydney area for over 25 years. The recognition highlights the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability through 100 percent eco-friendly practices and triple ISO certifications.

The distinction comes as businesses across Sydney increasingly prioritize health, sustainability, and regulatory compliance in their operational decisions. Clean Group’s innovative approach combines non-toxic, GECA-certified products with advanced waste management protocols, enabling clients to achieve NABERS sustainability ratings while maintaining pristine workplace environments.

“This recognition validates our long-standing commitment to transforming commercial spaces into healthier, greener environments,” said Stephen Matthews of Clean Group. “Our triple ISO certifications and dedication to eco-friendly practices demonstrate that businesses don’t have to compromise between exceptional cleanliness and environmental responsibility.”

The company’s comprehensive service portfolio spans multiple sectors, including corporate offices, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, strata buildings, warehouses, and places of worship. Each cleaning program is tailored to meet specific industry requirements while adhering to stringent environmental and safety standards.

Clean Group commercial cleaning in Sydney has evolved significantly in response to post-pandemic hygiene requirements. The company has implemented enhanced protocols that address current health concerns while maintaining its commitment to using only non-toxic cleaning products. This approach has proven particularly valuable for sensitive environments such as childcare centers, medical facilities, and NDIS participant spaces.

The recognition from Kinross Research evaluated multiple factors, including customer satisfaction ratings, environmental practices, service quality, and operational excellence. Clean Group’s 4.9-star rating on major review platforms and consistent client feedback regarding attention to detail, timeliness, and professionalism contributed to the top ranking.

“What sets us apart is our ability to deliver spotless results without lock-in contracts or operational disruptions,” Matthews explained. “Our flexible approach allows businesses to maintain the highest cleanliness standards while focusing on their core operations.”

The company’s green cleaning methodology extends beyond product selection to encompass comprehensive environmental strategies. These include water conservation techniques, energy-efficient equipment, and waste reduction protocols that align with corporate sustainability goals. This holistic approach helps clients meet their environmental commitments while maintaining healthy indoor air quality.

Clean Group in Sydney continues to invest in advanced cleaning technologies and equipment designed to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The company’s ISO-certified procedures ensure consistent service delivery across all client locations, from small professional offices to large industrial warehouses.

The family-owned business has built its reputation on reliability and quality over more than two decades of operation. Its services include specialized offerings such as after-builders cleaning, carpet cleaning, window cleaning, and comprehensive spring cleaning programs. Each service maintains the same commitment to environmental safety and exceptional results that earned the company its recent recognition.

Clean Group Commercial Cleaning operates throughout the Greater Sydney metropolitan area, providing customized cleaning solutions for businesses of all sizes. The company’s expertise spans routine maintenance cleaning, deep sanitization services, and specialized industry-specific cleaning requirements.

###

For more information about Clean Group Commercial Cleaning, contact the company here:

Clean Group Commercial Cleaning
Stephen Matthews
+61291607469
sales@clean-group.com.au
1b L1/299 Elizabeth St
Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/nz-au-clean-group-achieves-top-commercial-cleaning-recognition-in-sydney-through-triple-iso-certification-and-eco-friendly-practices/

March 5, 2026

ChamberWorks helps employers build teams

Source: New Zealand Government

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says a new partnership which supports business owners with their hiring decisions will help get more Kiwis into work.

ChamberWorks launched in Auckland today, as a partnership between the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and New Zealand Chambers of Commerce.

“This is an exciting new development, and I welcome the joined-up approach between MSD and the Chambers,” Louise Upston says.

“ChamberWorks will support more successful job placements and will be a valuable recruitment service for employers, helping them to find the right people for their vacancies.

“It aligns workforce needs with job seekers, meeting a gap in the market. Employers frequently tell me recruitment is one of the biggest challenges they face.

“It makes sense for these two key groups to work together because MSD has the largest talent pipeline of workers in the country. They’re also able to support the recruitment process with access to training and online learning.

“Along with MSD, I share the Chambers’ commitment to supporting businesses to build capable teams and getting job seekers into work. Working together, we can deliver more.

“Our Government is committed to fixing the basics and building the future for New Zealand. Getting more Kiwis into work is key to this,” Louise Upston says.

ChamberWorks will be available nationally across the 23 New Zealand chambers and each will partner with MSD and collaborate on workforce plans, events and opportunities.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/chamberworks-helps-employers-build-teams/

March 5, 2026

Spike in children under 12 needing mental health support

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

More children under 12 are ringing Youthline, with its latest figures showing that age group makes up 10 percent of calls for help.

At the charity’s inaugural youth mental health summit at Parliament on Wednesday, speakers called for cross-party support and a more connected model of care for young New Zealanders who, since Covid-19, are struggling more than ever.

Youthline runs free services including a helpline, face-to-face counselling, mentoring, and programmes in schools.

Its chief executive, Shae Ronald, said the helpline had 28,000 conversations a year but demand had been climbing for more than a decade, particularly since Covid-19.

“We had a big jump last year in January, and we’ve had another big jump over the last three months.”

And the cases were growing in seriousness, too – the number of rangatahi who were considered very high risk, and requiring emergency intervention, was up to four a day. Ronald said she remembered a time when it was one a week.

Youthline’s Shae Ronald. RNZ David Steemson

Today, many young people were battling something she called the “missing middle service gap”.

“Many young people fall into the space where their needs are serious, but do not meet the threshold for urgent or specialist intervention. As a result, they may face long wait lists, limited availability, or uncertainty about where they fit within the system,” she said.

And the callers were getting younger, too.

“As of last year, 10 percent of all people contacting Youthline are under 12,” she said.

Australian psychiatrist Pat McGorry explained the increase of mental health distress among youths was a global trend, and it could be down to any combination of factors – social media, climate anxiety, rising cost of living and buying a house, and notably, Covid-19.

“The younger age groups had a much more precipitous drop in their mental health during the pandemic,” he said.

“We think it’s about 25 percent of the rise over the last 20 years, Covid is responsible for it.”

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey – who himself had spent time as a Youthline counsellor in the 1980s – expressed envy of Australia over the size and scale of their resources to respond to the mental health crisis.

But McGorry said it wasn’t all smooth sailing there, either.

“I assume it’s the same in New Zealand,” he said.

“Life is much more precarious in an economic sense for [young people]. Their futures are clouded in many, many ways. House prices in Australia cost you three times the median income 40 years ago to buy a house. Now it’s 10 times. And rents are proportionally equal.

“And there are students in Western Sydney at the universities who have to choose between buying textbooks and eating. So they have food banks in the universities. Now, how can a society like Australia, one of the richest countries in the world, tolerate that? I mean, it’s just madness.”

Dr Jess Stubbing, a clinical psychologist and researcher now working in Massachusetts, said New Zealand was yet to see the true peak of the wave.

“I’m seeing more and more younger people, who are coming in at a younger age with really significant need, and a lot of that is young people who were in their very formative, early years during Covid, when their families were stressed, the country was stressed, we were all divided, and that affects us, that affects how we grow up.”

She said the New Zealand system was not meeting the current need, and it was definitely not going to meet future need, either.

That left a couple of options, she said – spend money today on an integrated, cohesive mental health system, “or spend ten times that in a decade when those people are adults and need our adult services”.

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Doocey said the feedback he frequently received was that the system felt fragmented, with long wait times, unequipped to meet growing demand.

In the past 12 months, an extra 35,000 accessed support compared with the year before, which Doocey said was largely due to a reduction in workforce vacancies.

But that same growth wasn’t seen among young people.

A prevalence survey – the first of its kind for mental health and addiction among young people – was set to begin in the coming months, Doocey said.

And while that would take years to start producing data, it was a step in the right direction for a system where the need grew year on year.

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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/2026/03/05/spike-in-children-under-12-needing-mental-health-support/

March 5, 2026

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford apologises after inflating overstayer figures

Source: Radio New Zealand

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford. RNZ / Mark Papalii

A Pasifika leader who lived through the Dawn Raids is accusing the government of scaremongering about overstayer numbers.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford told reporters there were “tens of thousands more” overstayers than she had expected last month.

“We have a big overstayer problem, tens of thousands more than we suspected, and we have to arm [immigration officers] with the tools to be able to request information from people when they have a reasonable suspicion that they are in breach of their visa conditions.”

Stanford made the comments in the context of the coalition giving immigration officers the power to ask suspected overstayers for identification in homes and workplaces.

RNZ wasn’t able to verify the “tens of thousands more” overstayers figure.

Immigration New Zealand confirmed there were around 20,980 people overstayers as of 1 July 2025 and approximately 14,000 in 2017 – a difference of just under 7000 over eight years.

Stanford has since backtracked.

“I meant to say when I was down on the tiles with all your microphones in front of me ‘thousands’. The figure that we always had in mind was around about in the low teens.

“When it came in at 20 [thousand], that is a significant amount more than we expected. So apologies that I misspoke. It happens on occasion. It wasn’t quite right.”

Tongan community leader Pakilau Manase Lua. RNZ Pacific / Lydia Lewis

Tongan community leader Pakilau Manase Lua’s was a child when his family came to New Zealand in the 1970s and lived through the Dawn Raids.

He attended the government apology for the raids as an adult and said Stanford’s comments took him back in time.

“It smacks of what the National Party did back in the ’70s with Robert Muldoon’s Dancing Cossacks and all of those racially motivated cartoons that they put up on the TV to scare New Zealanders into thinking that there’s a big groundswell of Polynesians when the actual majority of overstayers back then were were not Pacific at all.

“We made up less than a third of the actual overstayed numbers and my suspicion is that’s the case here but unfortunately this gaslighting that the government’s doing is going to be disproportionately targeting our people again.

“In an election year, this smacks of government putting the boot into the most vulnerable communities again and it’s not on.

“There was an apology done by previous government about the Dawn Raids and then we saw that they were actually still dawn raiding our people and unfortunately it’s always people of colour that end up being the people under the bus as the bus runs us over again and again.”

The Greens – highly critical of the legislation Stanford is handling – have seized on the minister’s error.

The party’s immigration spokesperson, Ricardo Menéndez March, accused her of fudging the numbers.

Ricardo Menéndez March. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“She is using Trump-like tactics to fearmonger the community over the number of overstayers and creating a narrative that was simply not correct nor true to justify a bill that will give Immigration New Zealand more powers.

“It’s her responsibility to be correct when talking about the number of overstayers. Claiming that there’s tens of thousands more, it’s not just irresponsible, it shows that this minister will go [to] any lengths to justify a bill that will pave the path towards what we’ve seen in the US.”

Stanford has previously said the proposed change was narrow in scope and “very different” from powers available to US immigration officers.

On the overstayer figures, she stressed she had made a genuine mistake – and has apologised.

“I was on the tiles and I made a mistake and I’m very sorry about that. I’ve apologised. It was a lot more than we expected but I think the Greens are making an enormous mountain out of a very small mole hole.

“The point is that we have a number of overstayers and we need to make sure that we’re taking action where necessary to make sure that we are ensuring that we’re following through with deportation, especially in cases where there are criminals who are overstaying their visas.”

Lua has not been convinced by her explanation.

“No I don’t accept that at all. Someone in her position should know better, should know her facts, and again, this is going to have detrimental impacts on the most vulnerable, and in this case, our communities.

“Time and time again, we become political footballs during an election year, and this quacks like a duck, walks like a duck.”

Immigration New Zealand said the latest overstayer estimate of around 20,980 people as of 1 July 2025 was produced using newly adopted methodology, which had significantly enhanced the accuracy of the estimate since the previous in 2017.

A spokesperson said the two figures couldn’t be directly compared because of the different methodologies used.

It was important to note that the number of people who have overstayed their visa was very small in comparison to the number of people who travel to New Zealand lawfully each year, they said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/05/immigration-minister-erica-stanford-apologises-after-inflating-overstayer-figures/

March 5, 2026

Global Talent Summit Week Returns to Hong Kong March 18–19, Featuring Nobel Laureate, President of Peking University and SenseTime Co-founder

Source: Media Outreach

Focusing on talent ecosystem in the AI-era, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s Premier International talent hub

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2026 – The Labour and Welfare Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, in collaboration with Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE), will host the Global Talent Summit Week (GTS Week) in mid-March. Anchored by the integration of education, technology and talents, the mega talent event will foster regional talent exchange and explore future talent trends through an international forum, a large-scale expo and diverse networking activities.

Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) announced the programme for the Global Talent Summit Week on March 2, featuring the International Talent Forum, CareerConnect Expo and nine satellite events from March 17 to 29. Photo shows (from left) Account Delivery Director of DayOne Data Centre, Mr Tony Zhou; the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun; the Director of HKTE, Mr Felix Chan; and Partner of Ernst & Young Advisory Services Limited, Mr Jeff Tang, at the press conference.

Building on the success of its inaugural event in 2024, this year’s GTS Week expands its programme to include the International Talent Forum and CareerConnect Expo on 18 and 19 March, alongside nine satellite events co‑organised with HKTE’s working partners from 17 to 29 March. Together, these initiatives form a comprehensive international platform for talent exchange, further strengthening Hong Kong’s dual role as an international talent hub and the country’s gateway for talent.

The GTS Week follows Hong Kong’s historic ascent to the top position in Asia on the International Institute for Management Development’s World Talent Ranking 2025, which marks the city’s highest-ever ranking.

The Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, stated: “At a pivotal moment of rapid transformation in the global talent ecosystem, the GTS Week aims to explore forward looking perspectives on talent development, policies and opportunities, while aligning with the country’s development, thereby building Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent.”

The Director of HKTE, Mr Felix Chan, expressed his hope that through this flagship international talent event, the GTS Week will promote cross-regional and cross-sector collaboration on talent, and provide a platform for exchange with various partners that helps talent seize opportunities, understand development pathways in Hong Kong and gain foresight into manpower trends.

International Talent Forum | 18 and 19 March

Anchored by the theme “Connecting Global Minds”, the Forum brings together top government officials, business and academic leaders from Hong Kong and abroad.

Headlining the first day of the Forum will be Professor Christopher A. Pissarides, 2010 Nobel Laureate in Economic Sciences, delivering a keynote speech. He will be joined by Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, and Mr Joe Ngai, Chairman of McKinsey Greater China, who will share perspectives on the talent ecosystem in a new era. The Forum programme is structured with three panel discussions aligned with the GTS Week’s core pillars:

Education — — “Navigating the Future: The Paradigm Shift in Education and Talent Strategy” brings together academic leaders to explore how cross-border collaboration and industry partnerships can drive innovation and build future-ready skills. Panellists include Professor Qihuang Gong (President, Peking University), Professor Nancy Ip (President, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology), Professor Simon Marginson (Professor of Higher Education (Emeritus), University of Oxford), Professor John Quelch (American President and Executive Vice Chancellor, Duke Kunshan University), and Professor Heiwai Tang (Associate Vice-President (Global), Universiry of Hong Kong).
Technology — — “Technology as a Catalyst – Shaping Talent Strategies for Innovation” examines how innovative AI technologies can support talent attraction and development. Panellists include Ms Venetia Lee (General Manager, Ant International Greater China), Dr Dahua Lin (Co-founder & Chief Scientist, SenseTime), Mr Yat Siu (Co-founder & ExecutiveChairman, Animoca Brands; Founder & CEO, Outblaze), and Ms Basima Abdulrahman (Founder and CEO, KESK).
Talent — — “Thriving in a Dynamic Talent Landscape – Sustaining Skills and Fostering Resilience” explores how AI and digital technologies are reshaping talent strategies. Panellists include Mr Jeff Tang (Partner, Market Development Leader, Consulting, Ernst & Young Group), Mr Paul Moody (Managing Director, Global Partnerships & Client Solutions, CFA Institute), Mr Grant Wright (Group Executive, AI, SEEK), Ms Ruchee Anand (Vice President of Talent Solutions for APAC, LinkedIn), and Ms Joy Xu (Group Chief People & Culture Officer, DFI Retail Group).

The second morning will feature panel discussions and dedicated sessions with satellite event partners. An invitation-only closed-door Forging a National High-calibre Talent Hub Symposium will follow in the afternoon, bringing together government representatives from the Chinese Mainland and the Macao Special Administrative Region to foster knowledge exchange, collaboration and high‑calibre talent networks.

The Forum is by invitation only; HKTE will provide a global livestream on both days.

For the full list of confirmed speakers and the detailed forum agenda, please visit: gts.hkengage.gov.hk/en/speaker-list

CareerConnect Expo | 18 and 19 March

Running concurrently on 18 and 19 March, the Expo will feature about 70 large enterprises, education and technology institutions, and government departments. The free-admission Expo will provide participants direct access to the latest industry information, diverse support services and networking opportunities with multinational companies across thematic zones, showcasing career prospects across the Greater Bay Area. Pre-registration is now open.

Nine Satellite Events | 17 to 29 March (New for 2026)

For the first time, the GTS Week will extend into a week-long series, with nine satellite events taking place from 17 to 29 March in partnership with HKTE’s various working partners. The programme includes regional conferences, career fairs and corporate award ceremonies, creating a comprehensive platform for professional networking and information exchange. During the week, HKTE will formalise a cooperation agreement with JCI Hong Kong to deepen international promotion of the city.

Registration and Enquiries

Hashtag: #GlobalTalentSummit

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/global-talent-summit-week-returns-to-hong-kong-march-18-19-featuring-nobel-laureate-president-of-peking-university-and-sensetime-co-founder/

March 5, 2026

International trade: December 2025 quarter – Stats NZ information release

Source:Statistics New Zealand

International trade: December 2025 quarter – information release

4 March 2026

International trade statistics provide information on imports and exports of goods and services between New Zealand and our trading partners.

Key facts

Quarterly goods and services by country

Total exports of goods and services for the December 2025 quarter were $29.2 billion, up from $27.0 billion in the December 2024 quarter.
Total imports of goods and services for the December 2025 quarter were $32.0 billion, up from $29.4 billion in the December 2024 quarter.
The total two-way trade for the December 2025 quarter was $61.2 billion.

Visit our website to read the full information release and to download CSV files:

For media enquiries contact: Media team, Wellington, media@stats.govt.nz“>media@stats.govt.nz, 021 285 9191

The Government Statistician authorises all statistics and data we publish.

Ngā mihi,
Publishing
Stats NZ

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/international-trade-december-2025-quarter-stats-nz-information-release/

March 5, 2026

Proposed changes to Household Labour Force Survey income data

Source: Statistics New Zealand

Proposed changes to Household Labour Force Survey income data

4 March 2026

We are seeking feedback on whether administrative (admin) data could be used to create viable replacements for Household Labour Force Survey (HLFS) income measures.

Please read our evaluation of current HLFS income measures against admin alternatives and tell us how you currently use these measures. Your input will help inform our work and ensure the data we produce on income measures continues to meet the needs of New Zealand.

Feedback closes at 5pm on Wednesday, 15 April 2026.

Visit our website to read the evaluation and to provide feedback:

For media enquiries contact: Media team, Wellington, media@stats.govt.nz“>media@stats.govt.nz, 021 285 9191

The Government Statistician authorises all statistics and data we publish.

Ngā mihi,
Publishing
Stats NZ

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/proposed-changes-to-household-labour-force-survey-income-data/

March 4, 2026

New Zealanders feeling the pinch of rising inequality, think tank says

Source: Radio New Zealand

123RF

A think tank says New Zealanders can see and feel rising inequality.

Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa released polling suggesting most people agree billionaires should pay more tax.

Carried out by Talbot Mills, 68 percent of respondents agreed with the ultra wealthy being taxed more to support public goods like healthcare, housing and climate action.

Thirteen percent disagreed in the poll from 11-26 February of 1033 people.

Half of people surveyed – 50 percent – agreed there should be no billionaires while people struggle affording the basics like housing, food and healthcare.

Think tank director Gareth Hughes told Midday Report there is deep unease about how the economy is handling challenges like housing and the cost of living.

“Kiwis know that our tax system isn’t fair, it’s putting too much of the responsibility on workers, on things like GST, which are incredibly regressive,” he said.

“Yes, they would like those ultra-wealthy to be contributing more for our health and education system.

“That’s two-thirds agree that billionaires should be paying more to fund these public services.”

The numbers were closer together in another question in the poll – whether there should be a “billion-dollar wealth cap” or maximum amount of wealth a person can have.

Among the respondents, 37 percent agreed, while 34 percent disagreed.

“Oh, personally, I would be comfortable with that,” Hughes said.

“I think once you had a billion dollars you could get a certificate saying you’ve won capitalism and you could contribute to society.”

Hughes said he was part of a global network working to try to redesign the economic system “to deliver wellbeing for people and nature”.

He said it was a topic being raised overseas, and Wellbeing Economy Alliance Aotearoa wanted to test the idea in New Zealand.

“I acknowledge it’s a pretty new idea for New Zealanders, the idea of wealth caps,” he said.

“But remember, once upon a time we had very high marginal tax rates for the super wealthy in this country to contribute towards society.”

The National Business Review‘s annual rich list reported last year that New Zealand had 18 billionaires, up from 16 the year before.

“I think the big message though is that billionaires around the world and through corporate influence in New Zealand has seen a system which advantages them,” said Hughes.

“It’s very hard for people to pull themselves by their bootstraps today, you can almost say the ladder’s being pulled up behind the super-wealthy.”

Hughes said it was up to political leaders to put their solutions to the public.

On the question of billionaires paying more tax, 71 percent of people under 30 were supportive, and also 71 percent of people 30-44.

Sixty-eight percent of people 45-59 agreed and 64 percent of people polled over 60.

Eighty percent of Labour and Green voters agreed, 69% percent of Te Pāti Māori voters, 67 percent of the poll’s New Zealand First supporters, 58 percent of National and 44 percent Act.

The poll responses:

How strongly do you agree or disagree with the following:

The economic system in New Zealand is not set up to effectively address the big issues like housing, healthcare, and climate change. 66% total agree. 10% total disagree.
No one should be a billionaire while so many people struggle to afford basic necessities like housing, food, and healthcare. 50% total agree, 24% total disagree.

How strongly do you support or oppose the following in NZ:

Billionaires paying more tax to fund public goods like healthcare, housing, and climate action. 68% total agree. 13% total disagree.
Introducing a billion-dollar wealth cap – a maximum amount of wealth any person can legally hold. 37% total agree. 34% total disagree.

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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/2026/03/04/new-zealanders-feeling-the-pinch-of-rising-inequality-think-tank-says/

March 4, 2026

Trinity Medical Group Celebrates 10th Anniversary

Source: Media Outreach

New Board Appointments and Strategic Partnerships Drive Fresh Momentum Accelerating Expansion into Chinese Medicine and Physiotherapy

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2026 – Trinity Medical Group (“Trinity Medical” or the “Group”), a leading provider of patient-centred healthcare premium diagnostic imaging and screening services, today marks a significant milestone with its 10^th anniversary. The Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Member of the Standing Committee of the 12^th and 13^th National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), and Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Member of the Executive Council, to its Board Members. In addition, the Group has entered into strategic partnerships with FWD, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, YF Life Insurance International Limited and United Imaging (in alphabetical order of company names), enhancing cross-sector synergies between premium healthcare services and insurance solutions to deliver comprehensive and high-quality care for clients.

Trinity Medical Group hosts its 10th anniversary celebration, which brings together distinguished leaders from the government, business, and medical sectors. The event is a remarkable success and sees an exceptional turnout.

The Group celebrated its 10th anniversary yesterday (3 March), bringing together distinguished guests, Professor Lo Chung-mau, BBS, JP, Secretary for Health; Mr. Fan Hung-ling, Henry, SBS, JP, Chairman of the Hospital Authority; Mr. Tong Ka-shing, Carlson, GBS, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited; and Professor Ma Si-hang, Frederick, GBS, JP, Chairman of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, to commemorate this major chapter in its journey.

Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH, Founder of Trinity Medical Group, remarked in the welcome speech, “With the steadfast support of our insurance partners, corporate clients, and medical professionals, as well as the commitment and trust of our professional team, our Group is proud to reach this significant 10th anniversary milestone. Looking ahead, we will remain dedicated to the principles of preventive medicine and will proactively expand our service portfolio. This year, we plan to introduce Traditional Chinese Medicine and physiotherapy services, further diversifying our offerings and providing the community with more comprehensive care as we drive the Group’s ongoing development.”

Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH, Founder of Trinity Medical Group, delivered the welcome address. Mrs. Christine Ma-Lau, Director of Trinity Medical Group, delivered the thank-you speech.

Trinity Medical welcomes Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Member of the 12^th and 13^th Standing Committee of the National Committee of the CPPCC, as Non-Executive Chairman, and Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Member of the Executive Council, as Independent Non-Executive Director.Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH remarked in his speech, “Professor Wu brings more than networks; he brings international governance DNA; Dr. Lam connects our boardroom strategy to bedside community care.” With the addition of these highly respected industry leaders, the Group is confident that their expertise and strategic insight will significantly strengthen the Group’s vision, clinical capabilities and overall growth trajectory, injecting new momentum into the Group’s future development.

Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Non-Executive Chairman of Trinity Medical Group (Left); Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Independent Non-Executive Director of Trinity Medical Group (Right).

Forging Cross-Industry Alliances to Pioneer New Frontiers in Chinese Medicine Consultations and Physiotherapy

At the anniversary celebration, Trinity Medical announced the strategic cooperation agreements with FWD, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, YF Life Insurance International Limited, and United Imaging. Through these partnerships, the Group aims to deliver international-standard diagnostic services and diverse insurance solutions, creating a seamless, one-stop integrated healthcare experience for clients.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with FWD and is honoured to have Mr. Ken Lau, Managing Director of Greater China and Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer, FWD, to attained the event and join the commemorative photo.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with Prudential Hong Kong Limited and is honoured to have Ms. Candy Au Yeung, Chief Customer Operation and Health Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited to attend the event and join the commemorative photo.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with YF Life Insurance Limited and is honoured to have Ms. Jasmine Hui, Chief Proposition Officer and Senior Vice President, YF Life Insurance Limited, to attend the event and join the commemorative photo.

Trinity Medical Group enters into a strategic partnership agreement with United Imaging, and expresses gratitude for United Imaging’s significant support in advancing medical technology.

Looking ahead, Trinity Medical will further diversify its service portfolio, including the introduction of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) consultations and physiotherapy services this year. These initiatives will continue to advance holistic recovery and preventive care initiatives. These efforts are designed to address the growing demand for premium healthcare and to reinforce the Group’s leadership within the sector.

Since its establishment in 2016, Trinity Medical has been committed to providing high-quality diagnostic imaging and health screening services. The Group continues to expand its clinical and check-up offerings, underscoring its drive for diversified development and excellence. To date, the Group has formed partnerships with over 10 insurance companies and earned the trust of over 300 corporate clients.

The professional team now exeeds 200 members, collectively having served more than 1.8 million individual clients. Its online health platform has recorded over 5.5 million visits, underscoring the Group’s industry leadership and strong market reputation.

In addition, Trinity Medical has also actively contributed to the community, including:

Supporting government primary healthcare policies: Over the past decade, the Group has provided influenza, COVID-19, and HPV vaccinations to more than 10,000 schoolchildren, helping to build herd immunity.
COVID-19 response: Throughout the pandemic, all Trinity Medical centres across the city offered COVID-19 vaccinations and PCR testing, providing accessible services throughout Hong Kong.
Supporting the “eHealth” initiative: By participating in the Hospital Authority’s referral network and the Electronic Health Record Sharing System, the Group has helped relieve the burden for tens of thousands of public hospital patients.
Appointed as a “SafeCity Ambassador 2025”: Trinity Medical has partnered with the Hong Kong Police Force to jointly promote crime prevention, cyber security, and mental health awareness.
Championing youth development: Through participation in the “Strive and Rise Programme,” the Group helps secondary school students learn about the medical profession and supports their personal growth.
Recognised for corporate social responsibility: The Group has been awarded the “Caring Company” and “Good Employer” accolades for consecutive years, reflecting our dedication to social welfare, employee development, and environmental protection.

(Starting from the left) Mrs. Christine Ma-Lau, Director of Trinity Medical Group; Dr. the Honourable Lam Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Independent Non-Executive Director of the Group; Professor Wu Ting-yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Non-Executive Chairman of the Group; and Mr. Lau Kevin Chung-hang, MH, Founder of the Group, officiate at the toasting ceremony.

Trinity Medical Group’s 10th Anniversary Celebration is attended and supported by prominent leaders from the government and business sectors.

Click here to download more event photos.

Hashtag: #TrinityMedical

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/trinity-medical-group-celebrates-10th-anniversary/

March 4, 2026

TVNZ chair calls Paul Goldsmith after police minister dissatisfied with gang numbers story

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Mark Papalii

The media and broadcasting minister Paul Goldsmith has confirmed the board chair of TVNZ contacted him after the police minister expressed dissatisfaction with a 1News story about gang numbers.

Goldsmith said the chair of the public broadcaster, Andrew Barclay, had raised the story during the call, but Goldsmith did not respond to the matter.

1News aired a story last Thursday, showing gang members now narrowly outnumbered police officers.

The report aired the same day the latest Crime and Victims survey reported 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.

Following the airing of the report, Police Minister Mark Mitchell took to Facebook to express his frustration with the story.

Mitchell said it was “absolutely unbelievable” that on a day the government had announced fewer victims of violent crime and a reduction in serious repeat youth offending, 1News “chose instead to engage in unbalanced journalism by running a story about gang membership with none of the context around the outstanding work our Police are doing in cracking down on gangs in New Zealand”.

Five days later, on Tuesday night, 1News ran a second story which reported on the crime statistics that the government had announced the previous week.

Media and communications minister Paul Goldsmith, who is also the justice minister and was present at the government’s announcement, confirmed he had spoken to the 1News journalist after the first story aired.

“Just like I often do when I’m not happy with a story, I ring the journalist and give them the benefit of my opinions.”

Goldsmith then said he had a “very short” call from the chair of TVNZ’s board, Andrew Barclay, “on a range of matters”, and the story came up in passing, “but I hadn’t raised the issue”.

He said he “absolutely” did not bring the story up himself, and he did not discuss editorial matters with the board member.

“It’s not appropriate for me to be talking about political discussions and editorial matters with the board, and I haven’t,” he said.

“We certainly do remonstrate and argue with journalists over stories, and we do that on a regular basis.”

Goldsmith would not go into the details of the call, saying that the reporting came up “in passing,” and then they moved on to other matters.

“I just said, well, that’s not for me to discuss. And then we moved on to other issues.”

He confirmed the phone call took place before the second story aired.

Mark Mitchell expressed dissatisfaction with a 1News story about gang numbers. Mark Papalii

During Question Time on Wednesday, Mitchell again raised what he said was an “unbalanced” report.

Labour’s police spokesperson Ginny Andersen then asked Mitchell whether he, any member of his office, or any person acting on his behalf made contact with the TVNZ board regarding the report.

Mitchell said after he put up his Facebook post, he had received a call from a “senior” TVNZ person to apologise, but he had not contacted anyone at TVNZ, and confirmed the person he spoke to was not a member of the public broadcaster’s board.

Earlier on Wednesday, Mitchell explained he had said publicly on Newstalk ZB that he had received a call and an apology from TVNZ.

“I have private conversations with all of you guys, and that is quite normal, and that is quite okay.”

He said he did not name who that was, but he was very clear he had received an apology.

“You’re accountable as well for what you report and what you say,” he said.

“You don’t have carte blanche, and if you decide to take carte blanche, then don’t be surprised when the public actually judge you for and that’s exactly what happened.”

He said it was the “Kiwi way” to address it directly.

“I don’t rush off straight away to report people and try to get people in trouble. No, I’d rather just talk to them, highlight the issues, which is what they did.”

It was put to Mitchell he had posted on Facebook about it, which he acknowledged.

“We did that because, because we felt the story was very unfair. I think Paul Goldsmith spoke to them directly.”

Labour leader Chris Hipkins weighed in ahead of Question Time too, saying if any member of the TVNZ board had been involved in a decision to run the additional story on Tuesday night, TVNZ needed to be “very upfront with the New Zealand public about that”.

He also called for the member of the board to resign “immediately” if that had occurred.

Hipkins confirmed he didn’t have any evidence to suggest it had occurred, he wasn’t alleging it had occurred, but if it had, “then that member of the board has got themselves into some great difficulty.”

RNZ has contacted TVNZ for comment.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/04/tvnz-chair-calls-paul-goldsmith-after-police-minister-dissatisfied-with-gang-numbers-story/

March 4, 2026

Speech to second Pacific Stakeholder Fono

Source: New Zealand Government

Tēnā koutou katoa, and warm Pacific greetings to you all. Thank you for the opportunity to gather for this important fono.

I want to begin by thanking Reverend Hiueni for opening today’s fono and bringing us together in prayer this morning.

Thank you also to MC Fuimaono for your welcome and introduction.

I also acknowledge Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche.

I also want to greet former parliamentary colleagues Dame Winnie Laban, Aupito William Sio and the Honourable Alfred Ngaro. Thank you for your longstanding commitment to Pacific peoples in New Zealand.

To our Pacific leaders and public sector leaders, thank you for attending this second Stakeholder Fono and for the valuable insights you shared at the first gathering in November.

Scene setting

At the first fono, you heard from senior officials who provided important context about the global, geopolitical and domestic pressures shaping our environment. These forces are changing the face of how we work, how community needs are changing, and how the public sector must respond.

New Zealand is of the Pacific, and our country is enriched by the strength, culture, and contribution of Pacific peoples. Your success is New Zealand’s success. Pacific communities are among the youngest and fastest-growing in the country. That growth represents enormous potential; for families, for communities, and for the future workforce and economy.

That is why the Government is focused on delivering practical improvements in the areas that matter most: safer communities, better education, stronger health outcomes, secure housing, and real economic opportunity.

Delivering for Pacific Communities Strategy

Not long after the first fono, the Ministry published its Delivering for Pacific Communities Strategy, a practical three-year plan to ensure Pacific peoples benefit directly from government policies and programmes.

The Strategy focuses on the priorities Pacific communities told us matter most: economic opportunity, health, housing, education, and law and order, the fundamentals that support strong families and thriving communities.

Across these areas, the Government is committed to delivering real results, not just intentions.

I will briefly precis these areas of law and order, education, housing, health and economic opportunity.

Law and order

Good societies are safe societies. In the 2025 Global Peace Index, New Zealand ranked third highest. Safety is foundational. Pacific peoples are disproportionately affected by crime, and we need to continue to address the drivers and the remedies.

We have taken strong steps to restore law and order. There were 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than there were in October 2023. Ram raids are down by 85 per cent and there has also been a 22% drop in serious repeat youth offending compared to when we took office – well ahead of our target of a 15% reduction by 2030.

Alongside this, we are supporting community-led pacific initiatives that make a difference on the ground. For example, the Government is investing $1 million over four years in the Auckland Pacific Wardens Trust, recognising the vital role Pacific Wardens play in keeping people safe and strengthening community wellbeing.

Safer communities allow families, businesses, and young people to flourish.

Education

Education is the pathway to social mobility and improved quality of life. Social investment insights tell us the huge impact education has on our life’s trajectory.

Pacific learners, on average, face lower achievement across several indicators. To address this, we are seeing the highest shakeup in education in years. We have mandated one hour each of reading, writing, and maths every day, supported by structured literacy and phonics checks to improve reading outcomes.

We are already seeing progress. The proportion of new entrants meeting expected phonics levels has risen from 36 per cent to 58 per cent.

At the same time, programmes such as Tupu Aotearoa are creating pathways into employment, education, and training. We have already exceeded our target, placing more than 1,000 Pacific people into new opportunities.

I am also encouraged by the huge increase in Pacific People enrolling in tertiary education.

Investment in STEM is also important to participate in jobs and the workforce of the future. The Toloa Scholarships programme is seeing hundreds of Pacific students supported to carry out study in fields vital to New Zealand’s future.

Here is where we are cutting new ground with the Ministry. I have ministerial responsibility for the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI) and in June I also safely uploaded the largest amount of data ever into the IDI. As part of this I also recently uploaded Toloa Scholarship data into the IDI. The first grant-related data set to ever go into the IDI. This will provide two sets of insights: a look back at the attributes of the recipients, and a look forward to data insights of attributes of success.

Education is not just for youth but for adult learners also, and programmes such as MSD’s Alo Vaka are helping Pacific adults build skills and economic security, supporting over 300 people into better employment or business opportunities, and helping participating households increase incomes by around $9,000 to $12,000 on average.

I am also exploring converting the certificates of completion that people receive from the Centre for Pacific Languages into micro-credentials that then sit on their CV for future stacking. This will add immense value.

Health is closely linked to housing, both of which are key priorities for this Government.

We have made significant investment into Pacific housing initiatives, totalling $150 million.

We are cutting some never-trod ground in Pacific health. Healthy Homes is an HNZ initiative directed at improving young people’s health outcomes against ED attendance, and against off-work and off-study impacts.

Do healthy homes also benefit older people? In 2024, I landed the Pacific Healthy Homes Initiative which for the first time in any agency includes older people in the eligibility criteria. More specifically, Pacific people over 45 years with an ASH condition. We commissioned Otago University for before and after assessments. Initial data concludes older Pacific people benefit from warmer homes.

The programme is achieving real results, including delivering more than 5,200 interventions to date, such as insulation, heating and minor repairs in Pacific households.

We are investing $35.9 million to deliver 41 homes through the Pacific Building Affordable Homes Fund, and it has been a privilege to personally open Penina homes in South Auckland, and the Pacific Trust in the Waikato, and providers in New Brighton, Christchurch.

The Our Whare Our Fale programme in Eastern Porirua, shows the power of partnership between iwi, community organisations, and government to improve economic and health outcomes for families.

Supported by a substantial $114 million Government investment over three years, it will deliver up to 300 affordable homes by 2034. On assuming the portfolio three years ago, this was still requiring sign off, but for me the vision was impactful and the implementation deliverable.

I signed it off, and the first stage has already delivered 18 warm, energy-efficient homes and a communal fale, and I was glad to be there with Minister Potaka and Sir Bill English to mark its completion.

This project will support families into stable homes designed for multigenerational living, with families expected to begin moving in by the end of the year.

Homes are kept affordable through shared-equity support, perpetual land leases from Ngāti Toa that remove land costs, and construction at cost rather than market rates.

I want to acknowledge Central Pacific Collective, Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, and the Ministry for Pacific Peoples for their collaboration on Our Whare Our Fale.

It is an initiative that is delivering real results, with a further 32 homes expected by late 2026 and ongoing employment throughout construction.

Strong financial capability supports long-term economic resilience and home ownership, which is why the Ministry funds 12 providers to deliver the Financial Capability Programme across New Zealand.

Since July 2025, 674 individuals completed financial literacy training and 266 were supported with tailored home ownership plans.

Together, these initiatives enable Pacific families to step into home ownership while also creating Pacific-led construction and employment opportunities.

The progress in Pacific-led affordable housing reflects the Government’s broader focus on fixing the housing system and enabling long-term supply.

Alongside this work, the Government is focused on unlocking land for housing, supporting infrastructure, and reducing the barriers and costs that slow down building.

Health

Unfortunately, we know that Pacific peoples continue to experience poorer health outcomes, which is why improving frontline health services is a priority.

Recent results show encouraging progress on the targets that matter most for families:

Childhood immunisation rates at age two have risen to 82.6 per cent, the largest improvement across all targets

Faster cancer treatment, supported by $604 million funding for new medicines

Shorter emergency department stays despite higher demand

Reduced waiting times for specialist appointments and elective procedures

Our Elective Boost has delivered thousands of additional surgeries that make a real difference to people’s lives – hip and knee replacements, cataract surgeries, and other procedures – helping people return to work, family life, and the activities that give them purpose.

Economic Opportunity

Economic growth is central to long-term wellbeing.

Pacific communities are a powerful driver of New Zealand’s economy, and strengthening Pacific businesses creates jobs and prosperity that benefit everyone.

Unfortunately, we know Pacific unemployment is unacceptably high. The cost-of-living crisis, an economic downturn and high inflation hit our most vulnerable communities the hardest.

That is why we have prioritised practical initiatives to support Pacific communities into sustainable employment and economic opportunity.

Alo Vaka has provided targeted support to over 1,200 individuals and supported more than 300 individuals into better employment.

We are investing in programmes such as the Pacific Business Trust, which has created hundreds of new jobs.

Our Toloa Scholarships Programme will see hundreds of secondary students supported through strong education to employment pathways in high growth industries, enabling skills that are critical for the future economy.

Pacific people already play a vital role across essential industries. Strengthening skills, entrepreneurship and leadership will lift productivity and competitiveness across the country.

At the same time, this Government is focused on getting the broader economic settings right. Inflation has already more than halved from its peak, easing pressure on families and businesses, and we have lifted the incomes of working households experiencing hardship through tax relief and more affordable childcare. While it is encouraging to see inflation trending downward and pressure beginning to ease, we know there is still more work to do.

Our young people are our greatest asset and backing them to succeed is essential to building a stronger future for New Zealand.

Pacific youth are one of the youngest and fastest-growing population groups in New Zealand, and their wellbeing will shape our collective future.

They carry Pacific languages, cultures, and identities forward. They are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but innovators and change-makers of today.

I warmly acknowledge our Youth Panel – Lyonah, Tyler, Lupe, and Kaiata. Your perspectives ensure policies remain grounded in lived experience and focused on real opportunities.

When young people are equipped to thrive, our communities and our economy thrive with them.

Thriving Pacific communities

Across all these areas, safety, education, health, housing, and economic opportunity, the goal is the same: strengthening the fundamentals so Pacific families can thrive.

When communities are safer, children are learning, people can access timely healthcare, families have stable homes, and businesses are growing, the benefits extend far beyond any one group. Strong Pacific communities contribute to a stronger New Zealand.

Progress takes sustained effort, partnership, and trust. Government can’t do this alone, and we value the leadership and expertise within Pacific communities.

Lastly, as the previous Ministers here will agree, it’s a great privilege to be the Minister for Pacific Peoples and to be able to engage and support the Pacific community in New Zealand. In this task, I am ably supported by the staff here at the Ministry for Pacific Peoples.

I know there has been some discussion in the previous months regarding the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and where it sits within the structure of government. I want to be clear with everyone here that I believe it is important that there is strong voice for Pacific peoples within government, both at a ministerial level and within the public service. I am also very proud of the Ministry being in the top agencies or better across a range of public service performance measures reported over the recent months.

The Prime Minister has said there will be no structural change regarding the ministry in this term of Government.

That’s not to say that there isn’t room for improvement. This government believes that the entire public service needs to do better to ensure they are truly delivering for the communities they serve. That includes things like improved efficiencies, through use of AI and streamlining back-office services. Others will speak more on this.

Conclusion

In closing, thank you for coming here today and prioritising this fono.

Ngā mihi ki a koutou.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/speech-to-second-pacific-stakeholder-fono/

March 4, 2026

Māori-led tech company prepares to go global

Source: New Zealand Government

A Tauranga-based Māori health technology company is expanding into major international markets following support from the Government’s Māori Development Fund, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says.

Carepatron, a Māori-led company, has developed an AI-powered clinical support tool integrated into practice management platforms to improve efficiency, accessibility, and scalability for health providers.

“Growing the economy means backing Māori enterprise to scale, export, and compete internationally,” Mr Potaka says.

“Investment from the Māori Development Fund accelerated the development and deployment of Carepatron’s clinical support tool. That support has helped drive a 50 per cent increase in export revenue and positioned the company for continued expansion across North America, the United Kingdom and Europe.

Carepatron’s growth aligns with the objectives of Tōnui Māori | Going for Growth with Māori and the Government’s goal of doubling the value of New Zealand exports over the next decade.

“We are focused on practical steps that lift productivity and strengthen our export performance. Māori businesses are central to that ambition.”

“Building a future for Māori enterprise means investing in capability, innovation and global reach. When Māori businesses succeed offshore, that growth flows back into whānau, hapū, Iwi and regional communities.”

Strengthening Māori participation in high-value sectors such as technology will be key to building a more resilient and outward-looking economy.

“Backing enterprise is a priority for our Government. That means disciplined, targeted investment that delivers measurable results, stronger exports, growing revenue, and a future where Māori enterprise continues to play a leading role in New Zealand’s economic success.”

Note to editors:

Te Puni Kōkiri administers the Māori Development Fund and invested $250,000 to accelerate the development and deployment of Carepatron’s AI Clinical Support Co-Pilot. Carepatron invested an equivalent amount.
Organisations applying to the Māori Development Fund must fit funding priorities, meet criteria and be able to report on outcomes achieved. See www.tpk.govt.nz for more information.
More information about Tōnui Māori is also available here.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/maori-led-tech-company-prepares-to-go-global/

March 4, 2026

Geopolitical instability and interconnected risks raise fears of Black Swan scenarios

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2026 – Despite seeming predictable in hindsight, Black Swans are unexpected or unforeseen events that are highly disruptive and economically damaging. Examples include the 9/11 attacks of 2001 in the US, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Allianz Research estimates cumulative global GDP losses from the pandemic between 2020 and 2023 to be in the region of US$12trn.In addition to the huge financial and business costs, such events typically have long-lasting implications, resulting in geopolitical and societal shifts that continue many years after the initial event. According to new Allianz Risk Barometer analysis, more than half of the 3,000+ respondents (51%) identify a global supply chain paralysis due to a geopolitical conflict as the most plausible Black Swan scenario globally which could impact their company in the next five years. Fear of a global internet outage ranks second (47%) which reflects the increasing awareness of cyber and artificial intelligence (AI) risks among business leaders.

Respondents in Asia Pacific also identified a global supply chain paralysis and global internet outrage as the two most plausible Black Swan scenarios; the former is ranked first in China and Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea, while the latter is ranked first in Australia, India, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Allianz Commercial CEO Thomas Lillelund comments: “Although Black Swan events are not seen to be immediately likely, these rare, high-impact scenarios are perceived as increasingly plausible and should be considered by executive boards given their potential consequences. Growing interconnectivity across both physical and digital supply chains means disruptions now cascade much faster and can turn into major losses. In today’s fragmented geopolitical environment, companies must double down on resilience and integrated risk management to ride out the next perfect storm.”

Geopolitics is a key driver for Black Swans
Given the current geopolitical environment, it is no surprise that supply chain paralysis resulting from a geopolitical conflict is regarded as the most plausible Black Swan scenario. The threats of tariffs, trade wars and protectionism, as well as disruption to supply chains and shipping caused by regional conflicts in the Middle East and Russia / Ukraine are at the top of every board agenda. Allianz Research estimates that cumulative GDP losses over a two-year horizon triggered by a global supply chain disruption on the scale of the war in Ukraine could total US$1.5trn. In fact, political-related risks stand out as a leading potential trigger for Black Swan events, according to respondents. Mass social unrest and political instability is regarded as the fourth most plausible scenario globally (29%) and is a top three risk in the Americas (31%) and Africa and the Middle East (41%) regions, as well as in France (42%), for example. A sudden collapse of a major financial institution or a sovereign debt crisis, leading to a global liquidity crisis and severe market volatility ranks third (30%).

Interconnectivity and interdependency of both physical and digital supply chains are potentially increasing vulnerability at a time of geopolitical uncertainty, rapid advances in technology, and climate change. Businesses and global supply chains are also more vulnerable to Black Swan events due to growing concentrations of economic activity reliant on a limited number of critical suppliers and products in areas like AI and digital services, semiconductors, rare earth processors and transition technologies.

Company size influences risk perception
Global supply chain paralysis due to a geopolitical conflict halting the movement of goods and raw materials ranks top for both large (>US$500mn annual revenue, 55% of responses) and mid-sized companies (US$100mn+ to US$500mn, 52%). In contrast, smaller companies (

“Awareness of Black Swans and the need to build resilience has increased in recent years, but businesses can never fully prepare for rare high impact events such as a global outage or an unforeseen climate-related catastrophe. Building organizational agility, fostering a risk-aware culture and developing scalable response plans for a range of scenarios remain the most practical steps to best prepare for Black Swan events. Insurers can play a critical role in helping businesses strengthen their resilience in areas such as cyber risk and support more informed decisions when assessing and selecting critical suppliers,” says Michael Bruch, Global Head of Risk Consulting Advisory Services, Allianz Commercial.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/geopolitical-instability-and-interconnected-risks-raise-fears-of-black-swan-scenarios/

March 4, 2026

Amnesty International Update – Urgent call to protect civilians and respect international law amid escalating regional conflict following US and Israeli attacks on Iran

Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

Amid rapid expansion of regional hostilities across the Middle East following the ongoing joint United States-Israel attacks on Iran and the subsequent wave of Iranian retaliatory attacks across the region, Amnesty International is issuing an urgent call on all parties to protect civilians, adhere to international humanitarian law, in particular by ending unlawful attacks, such as deliberate, indiscriminate or disproportionate attacks on civilians and civilians infrastructures.

Military operations have spread across the region and now involve more than 10 countries. They have already resulted in significant loss of civilian life and destruction of civilian infrastructure. Israel has escalated its attacks on Lebanon in the past 24 hours in response to Hezbollah’s attacks. The US has said that “the hardest hits are yet to come”. Iran has warned of further intensification and insecurity across the whole region following the killing of Iranian Supreme Leader and commander-in-chief Ali Khamenei.

“Civilians should not pay the price for the unlawful and reckless acts by parties to the conflict, ravaging the principles of humanity and distinction at the heart of international humanitarian law and threatening the very foundations of international peace and security. The stakes could not be higher. Across the region, civilians have already endured successive cycles of conflict and mass violations and crimes under international law. Their protection should now be the top priority. Instead, they are facing more senseless killings and repression,” said Agnès Callamard, Secretary General of Amnesty International.

“Parties to the conflict must immediately refrain from and cease unlawful attacks, whether direct attacks on civilians, indiscriminate and disproportionate attacks, or the use of explosive weapons with wide area effects in densely populated areas. They must take all feasible precautions to prevent civilian harm.

“As the threat of a protracted international conflict grows, compliance with international human rights law and international humanitarian law is more urgent than ever. Any failure to uphold these obligations will intensify an already devastating human toll and push the region even further towards another humanitarian and human rights catastrophe.”

Attacks on Iran and Iran’s response

On 3 March the Iranian Red Crescent Society, reported that 787 people have been killed in Iran since the attacks began. On 28 February 2026, according to the Iranian authorities around 150 school children were among 165 people killed when a school in the southern city of Minab, Hormozgan province, was struck. The UN has described the bombing of this school as a ‘ grave violation of humanitarian law’, with UNESCO warning that attacks on educational institutions endanger students and teachers and undermine the protections guaranteed under international humanitarian law. The UN Human Rights Office has called for a prompt, impartial and thorough investigation into the “horrific” incident.

Amnesty International verified six videos from the aftermath of the strike that impacted the school, which show black smoke rising from the partially collapsed building and rescuers and excavators searching through the rubble for victims. Footage filmed from the school entrance shows walls marking the parameter of the school yard and building, with smoke visible in the background from the direction of a nearby Iranian Revolutionary Guards Compound.

According to the head of the Medical Council of Iran, 10 medical centres have been damaged by the Israeli and US attacks. Hospitals in Iran have already been subjected to militarized raids by Iran’s security forces who committed widespread human rights violations against injured protesters and medical workers during and in the aftermath of the protest massacres in January 2026.

The Iranian authorities shut down access to the internet again on 28 February, preventing millions of people from accessing essential information about armed hostilities and communicating with loved ones inside and outside the country, and suppressing the flow of information about violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.

The armed conflict has intensified concerns about the fate and safety of prisoners across Iran, including the thousands of protesters and dissidents arrested in connection with the January 2026 uprising. These concerns stem from reports by human rights defenders of explosions near prisons and other facilities where prisoners are held as well as Israel’s previous attack on Tehran’s Evin prison during the 12-day war.

Human rights defenders are also expressing fears that the Iranian authorities have often used armed conflict as pretext to subject dissidents to intensified patterns of torture and other ill-treatment as well as summary, arbitrary or extrajudicial executions. Amnesty International calls on the Iranian authorities to immediately release all those arbitrarily detained and take effective measures to secure the safety of all other prisoners, including through temporary release on humanitarian grounds. Concerns for the rights of people in Iran are compounded by the Iranian authorities’ well-documented record to repeated crimes under international law and other serious human rights violations, including during successive lethal crackdowns to eradicate dissent. On 8-9 January, Iranian authorities carried out unprecedented massacres of thousands of protesters and bystanders during anti-establishment protests calling for an end to the Islamic Republic.

Iranian authorities responded to US and Israeli attacks with missile and unmanned aerial vehicle attack in Israel and across the Gulf region, including in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi Arabia.

Media reports and official government statements indicate that some of the attacks, including as a result of falling debris from intercepted missiles or drones, led to some deaths, injuries or damage to civilian infrastructure. According to the authorities in Abu Dhabi, an Iranian drone targeting Zayed International Airport (AUH) was intercepted, leading to “falling debris” killing one person and injuring seven. On 2 March, both the Qatari and Saudi authorities claimed their oil facilities were targeted by the Iranians, and a Gulf Cooperation Council statement condemned “indiscriminate and reckless missile and drone attacks.”

In Israel, according to media and rescue agencies, at least 10 people have been killed and tens injured as a result of Iranian attacks. This includes nine people killed and more than 20 injured in Beit Shemesh after an Iranian ballistic missile strike, as well as the death of a woman in the Tel Aviv area from falling shrapnel. Iranian strikes also damaged at least 40 buildings in Tel Aviv, according to local authorities.

Israel has escalated severe restrictions on movement across the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), effectively blocking movement between villages and towns in the occupied West Bank including East Jerusalem. The authorities have also closed all external crossings into and out of the OPT including Kerem Shalom/ Karem Abu Salem and Rafah crossings blocking lifesaving aid and effectively placing the entire Gaza Strip under siege. Kerem Shalom/Karem Abu Salem was reopened on 3 March.

These arbitrary measures are gravely exacerbating the suffering of Palestinians living under Israel’s unlawful occupation and apartheid and are further compounding the multi-layered humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Palestinians are still living through Israel’s ongoing genocide.

In Iraq, a faction [Saraya Awliya Al-Dam] of the Iran-aligned militia groups, calling itself the Islamic Resistance, has claimed responsibility for multiple drone attacks on Erbil in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and later in the capital Baghdad, primarily targeting US military facilities. According to Kurdish Iranian opposition groups, drone strikes have targeted their positions in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq following warnings from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Escalation between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon

Following Hezbollah rocket attacks on northern Israel, which the group said was retaliation for Khamenei’s killing, the Israeli military significantly escalated its attacks on Lebanon, including the suburbs of Beirut, overnight on 2 March. Israeli air strikes in Lebanon had killed at least 40 people and injured 246, according to the Lebanese authorities, by 3 March. Before the recent escalation and since the November 2024 ceasefire agreement, Israel had been carrying out near daily attacks in the south of Lebanon, killing more than 380 people, including 127 civilians.

A new, mass “evacuation” warning, issued by the Israeli authorities after midnight on 2 March, has again displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians across Lebanon. The vague and broad warning covered more than 50 villages across the country’s south and east, and led to panic, clogged roads and another round of displacement for many. Additional broad mass evacuation warnings were issued early on 3 March ordering people in dozens of additional villages in southern Lebanon to leave their homes and expanding the area under threat.

On 2 March, the Israeli military said it would strike Hezbollah-affiliated financial institutions in multiple locations across Lebanon, then did. Israel previously targeted branches of the Hezbollah-affiliated financial institution in October 2024, which Amnesty International described as a likely violation of international humanitarian law, calling for such attacks to be investigated as a war crime.

International humanitarian law strictly prohibits direct attacks on civilians and civilian objects, as well as indiscriminate strikes that fail to distinguish between civilians and civilian object and combatants and military objectives, and disproportionate attacks. Aerial attacks impacting schools, medical facilities or residential buildings, as well as the firing of ballistic missiles and other explosive weapons with wide area effects into densely populated areas, raise grave concerns of possible violations of international humanitarian law.

Amnesty International is closely monitoring the situation and call on all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law. In instances of civilian death, injury and infrastructure harm, parties should initiate immediate investigations and hold anyone responsible for violations of international law to account.

“The escalating crisis in the Middle East poses a grave threat to multilateralism and to the integrity of the international legal order. Unlawful acts by parties to the conflict, particularly those committed by influential states, not only endanger civilians across multiple countries, but also accelerate the erosion of the global norms that are essential for the protection of human rights and global peace and security,” said Agnès Callamard.

“It is imperative that all parties take urgent measures to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including airports, hospitals, residential buildings, schools and prisons. They must also ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all affected areas and enable independent international monitoring.

“We call on the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to prevent further military escalation to avert additional civilian harm, and halt any further crimes under international law against populations who have already endured decades of repression. In line with international law, states must exercise the utmost restraint, refrain from any conduct that could fuel further violations, and remember that they have clear obligations not to aid or assist internationally wrongful acts, as well as a duty to cooperate to bring such breaches to an end.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/amnesty-international-update-urgent-call-to-protect-civilians-and-respect-international-law-amid-escalating-regional-conflict-following-us-and-israeli-attacks-on-iran/

March 4, 2026

Exports up more than $2b – powering economy

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand’s latest international trade statistics show robust performance across global markets, reflecting the skill, innovation, and resilience of Kiwi exporters who continue to rank among the best in the world, Trade and Investment Minister Hon Todd McClay says.

Exports rose to $29.2 billion for the December quarter, up $2.2 billion on the same period last year, reinforcing the vital role trade plays in supporting the New Zealand economy, with one in four Kiwi jobs linked to trade.

The figures, released today, also show two-way trade increased strongly reaching $61.2 billion for this quarter.

“New Zealand exporters are winning in highly competitive global markets,” Mr McClay says.

“Our farmers and growers are recognised internationally for their quality, reliability, and innovation. And these results are a testament to that.”

Of our top exports, the highest performers were dairy (up 10%), tourism (up 9.4%) and meat (up 21.4%) for the December quarter, compared to the same period last year.

Mr McClay says the latest data demonstrates the importance of open markets and strong trading relationships, particularly at a time of trade disruption and ongoing global economic uncertainty.

“Trade is a cornerstone of our economy. It supports jobs, drives higher incomes, and underpins growth in regions right across the country,” Mr McClay says.

“The Government is focused on backing exporters, reducing barriers at the border, strengthening our network of free trade agreements, and ensuring New Zealand businesses have the confidence and capability to succeed internationally.”

“As global conditions evolve, this Government remains committed to trade as a key driver of economic growth and prosperity for New Zealanders.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/exports-up-more-than-2b-powering-economy/

March 4, 2026

Homelessness – Out of sight is not a solution

Source: Hapai Te Hauora

Aotearoa cannot enforce its way out of homelessness.

The Government’s proposed changes to the Summary Offences Act would expand Police powers to issue move-on orders requiring people to leave a public space for up to 24 hours. These powers would apply to rough sleeping, begging and behaviour deemed disorderly, including for young people aged 14 and over.

At Hāpai Te Hauora, we are concerned that this approach focuses on visibility rather than cause.

“Using move-on orders may reduce what is seen in parts of the CBD, but it does not reduce homelessness,” says Jason Alexander, Chief Operating Officer at Hāpai Te Hauora.

“It shifts the problem without addressing why people are there in the first place.”

The real question: Why are people becoming homeless?

People do not become homeless overnight.

Homelessness is driven by housing shortages, rising rents, income insecurity, family violence, unmet mental health needs and long-standing structural inequities. It is the visible outcome of deeper instability.

In the past year, homelessness in Auckland has more than doubled. At the same time, one in seven tamariki in Aotearoa are living in material hardship.

These realities are connected.

When families are forced to choose between rent and food, when incomes fail to meet living costs, and when housing supply cannot meet demand, homelessness increases. Moving people away from a particular location does not change those conditions.

It may change what is visible in parts of the city. But it does not address the causes.

Māori are significantly overrepresented in homelessness statistics in Aotearoa.

While Māori make up around 17 percent of the population, they account for roughly 31 percent of people experiencing severe housing deprivation.

That disparity does not happen by accident.

It reflects uneven access to stable housing, income security and rental opportunities. Māori households are more likely to experience overcrowding and insecure housing, and research has also identified discrimination in the rental market, where applicants with Māori-identifying names receive fewer responses from landlords.

When housing becomes scarce and expensive, those already facing these barriers are the first to feel the pressure.

Jacqui Harema, Chief Executive of Hāpai Te Hauora, says the statistics point to deeper structural issues.

“When Māori are consistently overrepresented in homelessness statistics, it tells us the housing system is not delivering equitable outcomes,” she says.

“The response needs to focus on the drivers of homelessness.”

Housing is widely recognised as a fundamental human right. When Māori experience homelessness at disproportionate rates, it signals a system that is not working fairly for everyone.

Forcibly removing people experiencing homelessness, many of whom are Māori, to present a more curated image of the CBD raises important questions about whose wellbeing is prioritised. It also reinforces the historical pattern of contempt for the partnership embodied by Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Move-on orders may change what is visible in certain areas. But they do not:

Provide housing

Increase income

Connect people to care

Reduce trauma

Prevent future homelessness

They displace people who are already vulnerable.

Homelessness is not a public nuisance to be managed. It is a public health issue to be addressed.

Public safety and public wellbeing are not competing goals. Communities are safer when whānau are housed, supported and connected. Stability reduces harm. Visibility alone does not create it.

These proposed changes have not yet progressed into law. But the framing of homelessness as something to be moved along rather than resolved has consequences.

When policy focuses on appearances rather than underlying drivers, it risks deepening instability for those already at risk.

“We should be asking what is pushing people into homelessness, not how quickly we can move them away from view,” says Alexander.

“Real progress comes from addressing causes, not symptoms.”

At Hāpai Te Hauora, we believe homelessness is not the problem itself, but a signal that our housing and income systems are failing whānau.

Moving people out of sight is not a solution.

We will continue to advocate for responses that address the root causes of homelessness and reduce harm, particularly for Māori and other communities disproportionately affected.

When whānau have stability, our entire community thrives.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/homelessness-out-of-sight-is-not-a-solution/

March 4, 2026

Environment – Drone Spraying of Glyphosate Over Endangered Species Habitat at Te Henga Goes Ahead Despite Environment Court Appeal

Source: Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa

Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa is expressing deep alarm following confirmation that aerial drone spraying of glyphosate based herbicides (GBHs) has proceeded over the nationally significant wetlands of Te Henga — despite a last-minute application to the Environment Court of New Zealand seeking to halt the operation.

The spraying, which is aimed at targeting willow, has taken place in habitat known to support critically endangered long-tailed bats and matuku (Australasian bittern), within one of West Auckland’s most ecologically sensitive wetland systems.

This is reportedly the second year of a three-year aerial campaign to control the willow trees in the wetland, and is being carried out by the private environmental group Matuku Link in the public conservation area. The local community has twice prevented aerial spraying in this area due to major ecological and health concerns – including a successfully high court injunction in 2010 against Auckland Regional Council.

“This is shocking,” said Asha Andersen, spokesperson for Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa. “We are talking about the aerial application of glyphosate — a highly controversial agrichemical — by drone, directly over waterways and wetlands of national significance, and within the habitat of some of Aotearoa’s most endangered species.”

According to information confirmed by the Weed Management Advisory, an application for an interim enforcement order was lodged with the Environment Court last week to immediately stop the spraying. Despite this, and many other questions around its legitimacy the operation went ahead.

Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa says this raises serious questions about transparency, due process, social license and ecological risk.

“Conservation organisations should not be putting endangered species at risk,” Ms. Andersen said. “Their mandate is to protect biodiversity, not expose critically threatened wildlife to aerial pesticide applications in sensitive wetland habitats. When conservation work begins to mirror the very practices communities are concerned about, trust is eroded.”

Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa understands that Auckland Council had previously suspended aspects of the consent process for this year’s spraying on advice from the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment. Yet aerial spraying with glyphosate has now reportedly resumed with more to come on Friday 6th March.

Glyphosate, widely known under the trade name Roundup, remains a subject of international debate regarding environmental and health impacts. Its aerial application over wetlands raises additional concerns about spray drift, contamination of waterways, and impacts on non-target species including people and properties.

Flora and Fauna of Aotearoa is calling for:

An immediate halt to all aerial pesticide spraying in the Te Henga wetlands while legal proceedings are underway.
Full public disclosure of the consent status and decision-making process.
An independent ecological review of impacts on endangered bats, bittern, and wetland ecosystems.
Genuine community consultation before any further willow treatment is undertaken.

“Public conservation land must be managed with the highest level of care and accountability,” Flora and Fauna’s Ms. Andersen said. “People deserve to know what is happening in their wetlands — and endangered wildlife deserve better than to be caught in the fallout of controversial chemical operations.”

The people of West Auckland have a long history of standing up for their environment. They deserve answers.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/environment-drone-spraying-of-glyphosate-over-endangered-species-habitat-at-te-henga-goes-ahead-despite-environment-court-appeal/

March 4, 2026

Amnesty International – Urgent call to protect civilians and respect international law amid escalating regional conflict following US and Israeli attacks on Iran

Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

Attacks on Iran and Iran’s response

Escalation between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/amnesty-international-urgent-call-to-protect-civilians-and-respect-international-law-amid-escalating-regional-conflict-following-us-and-israeli-attacks-on-iran/

March 4, 2026

Pay Equity – Go Purple for Pay Equity this Friday – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

Nurses, midwives and health care assistants throughout Aotearoa New Zealand will wear purple on Friday to show their support for Pay Equity – and urge all New Zealanders to join them.

The Go Purple day is in recognition of International Women’s Day on Sunday. The NZNO members will be joined by members from other frontline public service unions.

NZNO delegate and Hospice nurse Anna Garton says she’ll be wearing purple after her and her colleagues’ Pay Equity claim was dumped overnight last May when the Coalition Government gutted the previous scheme.

“It was devastating for the workforces that had already put claims forward.

“The work Hospice nurses do is an important part of a caring society and we deserve to have it valued and paid fairly.

“NZNO Hospice workers have now lodged a new claim under the new system, but conditions have already deteriorated since the law change last year. Donations already fund 33% of Hospice nurses wages. Hospices can’t afford to close the gender pay gap without a Pay Equity settlement.

“I urge all New Zealanders to wear something purple to work on Friday to show their support for Pay Equity,” Anna Garton says.

NZNO delegate and Waikato-based hospital nurse Tracy Chisholm will also be wearing purple on Friday, within her local hospital uniform rules.

“Hospital members received their Pay Equity claim in 2023 and under the previous scheme, were entitled to a review last year to ensure our wages keep up with similarly skilled male dominated sectors.

“Under the new scheme, we are not entitled to a review for 10 years. Over this time our wages will once again fall behind.

“So women health workers and their whānau continue to lose out and pay the price for historical gender discrimination,” Tracy Chisholm says.

Notes:

Pay equity in New Zealand requires that women and men receive the same pay for doing different work that is of equal value.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/pay-equity-go-purple-for-pay-equity-this-friday-nzno/

Category: Politics

Government considering scrapping entire clean car standard

NZ-AU: Clean Group Achieves Top Commercial Cleaning Recognition in Sydney Through Triple ISO Certification and Eco-Friendly Practices

ChamberWorks helps employers build teams

Spike in children under 12 needing mental health support

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford apologises after inflating overstayer figures

Global Talent Summit Week Returns to Hong Kong March 18–19, Featuring Nobel Laureate, President of Peking University and SenseTime Co-founder

Focusing on talent ecosystem in the AI-era, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as Asia’s Premier International talent hub

Anchored by the theme “Connecting Global Minds”, the Forum brings together top government officials, business and academic leaders from Hong Kong and abroad.

CareerConnect Expo | 18 and 19 March

Nine Satellite Events | 17 to 29 March (New for 2026)

Registration and Enquiries

International trade: December 2025 quarter – Stats NZ information release

Proposed changes to Household Labour Force Survey income data

New Zealanders feeling the pinch of rising inequality, think tank says

Trinity Medical Group Celebrates 10th Anniversary

New Board Appointments and Strategic Partnerships Drive Fresh Momentum Accelerating Expansion into Chinese Medicine and Physiotherapy

TVNZ chair calls Paul Goldsmith after police minister dissatisfied with gang numbers story

Speech to second Pacific Stakeholder Fono

Māori-led tech company prepares to go global

Geopolitical instability and interconnected risks raise fears of Black Swan scenarios

Amnesty International Update – Urgent call to protect civilians and respect international law amid escalating regional conflict following US and Israeli attacks on Iran

Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

Exports up more than $2b – powering economy

Homelessness – Out of sight is not a solution

Source: Hapai Te Hauora

Environment – Drone Spraying of Glyphosate Over Endangered Species Habitat at Te Henga Goes Ahead Despite Environment Court Appeal

Amnesty International – Urgent call to protect civilians and respect international law amid escalating regional conflict following US and Israeli attacks on Iran

Source: Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand

Pay Equity – Go Purple for Pay Equity this Friday – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation