Workers belonging to the Public Service Association and New Zealand Nurses’ Organisation alongside public supporters will rally in support of pay equity at Parliament this Monday.
Care and support worker Kate Halsall is bringing along a trolley of groceries to symbolise the earnings she is missing out on every week. On average, care and support workers have been missing out on $145.85 every week since their pay equity claim was cancelled.
“Groceries, warrants of fitness, absolutely everything is going up except my pay packet,” she says.
“I hear from my coworkers that everyone is constantly juggling their budgets. If there’s even one unexpected little hiccup, our whole budgets are blown. We do important, life-saving work – it’s so wrong that we’re not valued for the work we do.”
“Women have not forgotten the betrayal of the National-led Government when, under the cover of darkness, they cancelled pay equity claims and gutted the Equal Pay Act,” PSA National Secretary, Fleur Fitzsimons, says.
“As we saw in the People’s Select Committee report this week, the changes to pay equity that this Government made last year were an abhorrent abuse of power. New Zealanders value women’s work, and believe everyone in female-dominated sectors deserve to be paid fairly.
“This rally is part of a whole week of action in support of working women in the lead-up to International Women’s Day on 8 March.”
NZNO spokesperson and aged care health care assistant Lisa Marriner had her pay equity claim cancelled last year.
“It’s taken for granted that women in female-dominated sectors such as care and support are paid much less than men in other sectors,” she says.
“We are acutely aware we are undervalued compared to men. We know our value and how important our work is but it’s more than that. It’s actually not fair that a man with similar skills and experience to us in a male-dominated sector is paid much more than us because someone, somewhere decided their work is worth more than ours.
“That’s why we must keep speaking out. For ourselves, our colleagues, our daughters and our nieces.”
Rally details
What:Rally in support of pay equity and working women.
When:12:00-12:30pm, Monday 2 March.
Where:Parliament Lawn.
Confirmed MPs in attendance include Labour MP Jan Tinetti.
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahiis Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.
New Zealand First leader Winston Peters.RNZ / Mark Papalii
Winston Peters says the “last thing we should do is go and panic” and make a classic mistake “based on blind ideology” in response to Air New Zealand’s financial loss.
But the New Zealand First leader said “politicians should know what they’re talking about” before suggesting a sale.
On Thursday, David Seymour floated the idea after the company posted a bottom-line loss of $40 million in the six months to December.
“Get woke, go broke,” he said, “We hear about electric planes, glossy reports on climate change, paper cups in the Koru lounge. What they can’t seem to do is take off and land on time.”
ACT leader David Seymour.RNZ / Mark Papalii
The Prime Minister brushed off questions about it, saying there would be no asset sales this political term.
But New Zealand First has long opposed selling off state-owned assets.
Peters took to social media to acknowledge Air New Zealand needed to start being on-time and reducing regional costs, but said calls to sell shares when the airline market was in a downturn were “economic lunacy”.
He pointed out airlines were struggling worldwide, partly because there were not enough engines for the aircraft. He said no one had said anything about selling the airline when it had posted a profit.
“Sometimes there’s a downturn, but we can get on top of it.
“We should not go back to the foolishness of Labour and National selling off assets in the past.”
Peters said the added value of Air New Zealand being “owned by us” went to taxpayers and the New Zealand economy.
If it was owned internationally, that value would go to a foreign economy and New Zealand would be used as a place for “economic exploitation”.
“It’s clear as daylight.
“The former CEO warned us of this two years ago, so politicians should know what they’re talking about.”
He said it was a conversation for the upcoming election.
Labour’s finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds also rejected the idea of selling the airline.
Labour’s finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds.RNZ / Samuel Rillstone
She acknowledged performance mattered and the board must be accountable for that, “but a short term loss doesn’t actually justify selling a strategic asset and a really key part of New Zealand’s infrastructure”.
“The real taxpayer risk would be losing control of regional routes and international connectivity if ownership shifted offshore.”
She also challenged the Deputy Prime Minister to explain to regional communities how selling it would guarantee connections for their region.
The Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick said asset sales were the very reason New Zealanders’ bills were so high, and that privatisation enriched shareholders at the expense of everyday people.
“That’s when profit comes first – passengers, workers, and regional accessibility comes last.”
She said the Greens had always believed assets built by New Zealanders should remain in public hands.
“The Co-Deputy Prime Minister is currently selling more of the poison as though it were the medicine.”
RNZ spoke to people in Wellington on Thursday evening in the after-work rush hour.
“I think it’s important that we have an airline that works well for our country. We need to be able to get around.”
“As a consumer, it’s disappointing that they have such high air prices. I think there’s some fundamental issues around that. It’s a tough business, but privatising isn’t something that I personally or politically would ever want to see happen with an asset like that.”
“It’s our national airline, so probably it makes sense to keep it because we really can’t afford for it to go under, can we?”
“I do love flying Air New Zealand. It’s a great airline!”
“We’ve got to hold on to it. We’ve sold a lot, and it’s not really been of benefit. It’s a short term solution.”
“It depends on who’s gonna own it, right? I don’t really want someone who doesn’t give a shit about the environment, and will just keep charging high prices for flights.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 February 2026 – Fast-tracking innovation and technology (I&T) development is a core feature of the 2026-27 Budget, unveiled yesterday (February 25) by Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
Mr Chan said Hong Kong would be stepping up support measures such as computing power, land and capital, to enhance the city’s influence as a global source of original innovation.”Hong Kong’s strengths in innovative scientific research and commercialisation of research outcomes lie in our internationalised qualities, strong research capabilities, support of financial sector and a rich pool of high-calibre talents,” Mr Chan said.
He added that the Government is pressing ahead with the industrialisation of artificial intelligence (AI) and deepening its integration across various industries, while encouraging wider AI application, referred to as AI+, with an initial focus on life and health technology and embodied AI.
HKSAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, sets out strategies to propel Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development
“I will establish and chair the Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy to formulate strategies and create favourable conditions for AI to empower the transformation and development of industries,” Mr Chan said.
“We are making proactive efforts to align with the National AI+ Initiative by promoting ‘industries for AI’ and ‘AI for industries’ through application.”
The Financial Secretary highlighted that the Hong Kong Artificial Intelligence Research and Development Institute Company Limited will come into operation in the second half of this year, to promote AI+ development and transformation of R&D outcomes and advise the Government on relevant matters.
Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, echoed the need for holistic development of AI+ development. “When you talk about AI, you cannot just talk about AI research, or just talk about the infrastructure, we have to do it together. Actually, that is what we have been doing in the past three years. Everything is very important.”
Central to the Government’s efforts in promoting I&T is the San Tin Technopole area in the Northern Metropolis development.
“The San Tin Technopole will provide a large piece of land which can help accelerate the commercialisation of R&D results and provide industrial space for prototyping, pilot and mass production,” Mr Chan said. He proposed injecting $10 billion (US$1.28 billion) as initial capital to take forward the development, while leveraging market resources to accelerate the progress.
Mr Chan also earmarked $10 billion (US$1.28 billion) to accelerate the development of the Hetao Hong Kong Park by engaging the market to speed up the disposal of the remaining land parcels under Phase 1 development, providing key infrastructure, further strengthening support to start-ups and establishing a venture fund.
Mr Chan set aside about $220 million (US$28 million) to establish in Hong Kong the first national manufacturing innovation centre outside the Chinese Mainland. This, he said, reflects the Government’s commitment to implementing the Co-operation Agreement on the Development of New Quality Productive Forces and the Promotion of New Industrialisation signed with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology to promote industrial collaboration.
The Budget also sets out support measures for various technology-related emerging industries. Among them is the aerospace industry. The Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises will take the lead to identify aerospace enterprises to develop in Hong Kong. Also, the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited would review the relevant listing requirements to facilitate and attract the listing of aerospace enterprises in Hong Kong.
Noting that low earth orbit satellites can support the development of high-end industries, Mr Chan said the Government would proactively expand telecommunications infrastructure, streamline the relevant licensing regime and promote future 6G applications.
Meanwhile, the $10 billion (US$1.28 billion) Innovation and Technology Industry-Oriented Fund, introduced by the Government to channel market capital to invest in emerging fields of strategic importance, such as life and health technology, AI and robotics, as well as future industries, is expected to commence operation within this year.
“The key is to popularise the understanding and use of AI by all levels of society,” Mr Chan said.
ADELAIDE, Australia, Feb. 26, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On 13 February 2026, DENZA officially opened its first showroom in South Australia, marking another step in the brand’s expansion across Australia. The launch in Adelaide signals the continued growth of the premium new energy brand and the increasing global presence of Chinese intelligent manufacturing.
More than 150 guests attended the opening ceremony, including representatives from government, business and media, along with DENZA VIP customers. Guests included Wing You, General Manager of BYD Australia and New Zealand; Brian Jia, Deputy General Manager of BYD Australia and New Zealand; Mark Harland, Chief Operating Officer of DENZA Australia and New Zealand; Robert Milne, Regional Manager of DENZA Australia and New Zealand; Judy Sun, Country Representative of Harmony Auto Australia and New Zealand; Daniel Fang, Deputy Country Representative of Harmony Auto Australia and New Zealand; and Max Chapman, the Dealer Principal at Harmony DENZA Australia.
Following DENZA’s official entry into Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth on 10 December 2025, the opening of DENZA Adelaide represents the next step in the brand’s Australian journey. Operated by Harmony Auto, the Adelaide showroom is its first location in South Australia. Guided by a long-term vision and a customer-first philosophy, DENZA Adelaide is committed to delivering a premium ownership experience to local drivers. Combining advanced technology with refined luxury, DENZA continues to expand its footprint across Australia, bringing high-quality, intelligent electric vehicles to South Australian consumers while strengthening the global presence of premium Chinese new energy brands.
During the ceremony, Max Chapman welcomed guests and acknowledged Adelaide’s first DENZA B5 owner and his family, while Mark Harland, Chief Operating Officer of DENZA Australia and New Zealand, thanked Harmony Auto for its support in the brand’s international expansion.
A ceremonial vehicle handover was also held during the event. Wing You presented the keys to Rod Ventura, Adelaide’s first DENZA owner, and his family. The moment symbolised the trust between brand and customer, and marked the beginning of a new chapter in intelligent, safe and sustainable mobility for more Australian families.
Located in one of Adelaide’s prominent inner-city precincts, the DENZA Adelaide showroom blends contemporary design with local cultural inspiration. The space integrates artistic aesthetics with advanced automotive technology, creating a refined environment for customers to explore the brand’s vehicles and services. The showroom is scheduled for its official grand opening in March, with the wider community warmly invited to attend.
As the economic and cultural centre of South Australia, Adelaide is home to a steadily growing premium consumer market, alongside increasing demand for new energy vehicles. The launch of DENZA Adelaide further strengthens the brand’s Australian network and introduces a new benchmark for premium electric mobility in the region.
Looking ahead, DENZA will continue to position Adelaide as a strategic hub to deepen its presence in Australia, promote intelligent and sustainable mobility, and work alongside local partners to shape the future of premium new energy transportation.
Ki Tua O Matariki Warns Government That “Move-On” Powers Targeting Homeless Whānau will have negative consequences
Ki Tua o Matariki strongly encourages the Government to reconsider the expansion of “Move-on Orders” under amendments to the Summary Offences Act, which would allow Police to direct people to leave public spaces nationwide and impose penalties for non-compliance.
Under the proposed changes, individuals who breach a move-on order could face fines of up to $2,000 or up to three months’ imprisonment. These powers are expected to apply across town centres and may impact rangatahi as young as 14.
Ki Tua o Matariki does not want to see the Government make decisions it may later regret. The long-term consequences of punishing whānau in need risk creating mistrust, causing whānau to withdraw from visibility and support, and allowing their needs to deepen. We remain committed to supporting the Government to make decisions that uplift and protect our whānau and communities, and to ensure policies do not unintentionally cause further harm.
“From our experience, punishing people who cannot afford necessities such as housing, food, or transport does not reduce homelessness- it deepens fear and mistrust,” says Zoe Witika-Hawke, Chief Executive of Ki Tua o Matariki. “For whānau to engage in support, trust must come first. Pushing people further into the criminal justice system moves them away from the very support that enables long-term wellbeing. Evidence shows that prison does not resolve homelessness, addiction, or mental health challenges. We welcome the opportunity to work alongside Government and communities to implement solutions that strengthen whānau and create the Aotearoa we all want.”
Māori are disproportionately affected by homelessness in Aotearoa. Severe Housing Deprivation estimates from the 2023 Census show tens of thousands of people experiencing homelessness or unstable housing conditions, with Māori significantly over-represented in rough sleeping, overcrowding, and insecure housing. Māori women are particularly impacted, with sector research indicating four out of five homeless women in Aotearoa are Māori.
This amendments of the Summary Offences Act, reflects a concerning assumption that people sleeping rough have somewhere else to go,” says Hineraukura, founding member of the Māori maternal mental health advisory group Hine Ki Te Wheiao. “It prioritises public comfort over addressing the structural drivers of homelessness, including inflation, rising living costs, and housing insecurity. Treating homelessness as a behavioural issue rather than a systemic one risks ignoring the economic realities many whānau are facing. We believe the focus must shift toward practical, compassionate solutions that respond to the real pressures impacting our communities”
Any policy that increases enforcement without increasing housing supply and wraparound support risks disproportionately impacting whānau and deepening inequities already present in our system. At Ki Tua o Matariki, we see firsthand that homelessness is rarely about choice. It is connected to poverty, intergenerational trauma, mental health challenges, addiction, and systemic inequity. Our communities – Māori and non-Māori – deserve better.
Ki Tua o Matariki provides tailored tautoko for mātua taiohi, hapū māmā, their pēpi, and wider whānau. Alongside safe housing, we provide:
– Mental health support
– Transport assistance
– Counselling access
– Education and employment pathways
– Nursing and midwifery care
– Kaupapa Māori wānanga
– Weekly wraparound support
We know what works: stability, trusted relationships, cultural grounding, and consistent support.
Ki Tua o Matariki remains committed to supporting the Government to make decisions that strengthen whānau wellbeing and community safety, while ensuring policies do not unintentionally cause further harm. “Move-on” powers are not solutions to homelessness. Solutions lie in investing in housing, prevention, and culturally grounded wraparound support. We encourage the Government to prioritise policies that care for whānau, rather than moving them out of sight – these are the kinds of policies that Government will not regret.
Our communities deserve public policy grounded in manaakitanga, not punishment.
Thursday, 26 February 2026 – Jim Beam Homegrown is turning up the volume on the future of New Zealand music, announcing six breakthrough acts from 150 entries to perform on the Manuka Phuel Nexus Stage at this year’s festival at Claudelands Oval in Kirikiriroa, Hamilton.
The Jim Beam Homegrown Manuka Phuel Nexus Stage is a dedicated performance platform for emerging Kiwi artists and reflects the Festival’s commitment to fostering homegrown talent.
Andrew Tuck, Jim Beam Homegrown chief executive and managing director, says the new stage represents a defining step in the festival’s evolution.
“Homegrown has always been about backing Kiwi music at every level,” says Tuck. “The Manuka Phuel Nexus Stage gives these emerging artists the opportunity to perform and gain visibility. These artists are already making noise, but we’re providing them with a stage to be louder!”
The selection process The six emerging artists who will perform at Jim Beam Homegrown have been selected from a nationwide competition, which was open to artists of all genres. To be eligible, artists needed to have 2026+ monthly listeners, followers, or streams; 2026+ social followers; a press kit; radio ready single; and the ability to perform a 45-minute set of original music. Jim Beam Homegrown received 150 entries, of which the final six have been selected.
They are: Altercation X Erin G, Cordian, Imani-J, PRINS, Verity, Wet Denim.
Tuck says the overwhelming number of entries to the competition proves the future of Kiwi music is in safe hands.
“To see more than 150 artists put themselves forward shows just how much talent is out there. Narrowing it down to six wasn’t easy, but these artists have something special. In a few years, we fully expect some of these artists to be headlining major stages across the country.”
Tuck says: “Jim Beam Homegrown has always been a ground for fostering Kiwi talent, and this initiative strengthens that pathway. We’re not just booking artists for a set, we’re investing in the next chapter of New Zealand music.”
With seven stages, tens of thousands of fans, and the most ambitious production scale in Homegrown history, the addition of the Manuka Phuel Nexus Stage reinforces the festival’s mission: uplifting local talent while celebrating the artists who carry the sound of Aotearoa to the world.
Manuka Phuel Nexus Stage Line Up
Altercation X Erin G | Auckland Tamaki Makaurau-based singer-songwriter, Erin G, and Queenstown DJ/Producer Altercation will team up to dive into new sonic territory with their EP, Dream it Again, a poignant EP which captures Erin G’s intimate storytelling alongside Altercation’s soulful side of drum and bass.
Cordian | Auckland An alternative/progressive rock group from Auckland, the band consists of Mike Raven (Guitars/Keys, Kris Raven (Drums/Percussion, Nick Raven (Bass) and Dity Maharaj (Vocals/Artwork).
Imani-J | Nelson Haitian-New Zealand artist, Imani-J is crafting music that sits at the intersection of Afrofusion and R&B. An artist in the truest sense of the word, Imani-J is a singer, songwriter, dancer, and performer with a strong vision for her future.
PRINS | Auckland PRINS is a New Zealand-born pop artist carving out a bold, international lane with sleek pop hooks, sharp visuals, and a live show built for scale. Blending high-energy pop with a darker, confident edge, her sound sits comfortably alongside RAYE, Selena Gomez, Tate McRae, and Ashnikko, polished, emotionally charged, and unapologetically modern.
Verity | Hamilton Known for her deeply honest storytelling and blend of pop, soul, and R&B, vocalist, performer and social media star, Verity started her musical journey in Hamilton, Kirikiriroa and continues to carve out a sound that is raw, real and unmistakably her own.
Wet Denim | Wellington Four-piece rock pop band from Wellington, Wet Denim established themselves as a must-see live act in the Australasian scenes. The group’s sound is a blend of captivating vocals, lush guitar chords, syrupy basslines, and hard-hitting drums.
The festival will be held in Hamilton for the first time in 2026, kicking off on Saturday, 14 March at Claudelands Oval.
About Jim Beam Homegrown
Jim Beam Homegrown is New Zealand’s largest Kiwi-only music festival, celebrating the best of Aotearoa’s musical talent. Established in 2008 in Hamilton, initially as X*Air, an extreme sports festival, Jim Beam Homegrown showcases a wide range of genres, including rock, funk, pop, reggae, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Pita Tipene said he wouldn’t quote the ‘derogatory comments’ made by Cabinet Ministers.RNZ / Peter de Graaf
Northland Regional Council chairperson Pita Tipene has called on Cabinet Ministers to stop making “derogatory” comments about councils.
Representatives from local and regional councils were gathered in the Beehive’s banquet hall for the All of Local Government conference on Thursday.
Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour had just delivered a speech about his Regulatory Standards Act and how it will impact councils once it takes effect as law.
Tipene got to his feet at the end of the question and answer session afterwards.
“Too often I hear politicians who sit around the Cabinet table, and you are the highest ranking politician who will address this forum, making very derogatory comments, particularly about regional councils but councils in general,” he said.
“I can quote them but I won’t. I’m really trying to get the message across that we are in this together and those sorts of comments, while we embrace change, must stop.”
Councillors broke into applause when Tipene stopped speaking.
Seymour responded by saying he was “a lover, not a fighter”.
“You guys can probably judge from the presentation today, I’m not bagging anyone. We do need to work together, we do to be more constructive and having a focus around a better conception of what good regulation looks like is a good way to unite us.
“We are all together as one, brother.”
David Seymour says he’s a lover, not a fighter.RNZ / Mark Papalii
“There are comments that come from Cabinet ministers, in fact from the prime minister himself, who say things like councils have got no social licence.
“When the first media statement came out from minister Simon Watts, he said, not exactly but close to these words, nobody knows who their regional council chairs are, everyone knows who their mayors are, they’re getting on with the fluffy stuff.
“It’s really playing councils off against each other because the focus is squarely on regional councils. So my point was, we, central government and local government, are in this together.
“We need to be proactive, positive and working together, not being disparaging towards local government.”
The Governor-General of New Zealand’s visit to Tokelau, the upgrade of critical tsunami and volcano monitoring equipment on Raoul Island, and a search and rescue operation near Tonga were among the achievements of the New Zealand Defence Force’s first extensive operation to the South-West Pacific this year.
With New Zealand Army and Royal New Zealand Air Force personnel aboard, military sealift vessel HMNZS Canterbury under the name Operation Calypso covered 4580 nautical miles without the ship needing to take on additional food or fuel over 23 days.
Commanding Officer, Commander Wayne Andrew, said the mission was a busy one for everyone and was one of the best examples of Service interoperability he had seen.
“With two NH90 helicopters and crew, and supporting personnel from the NZ Army’s 5 Movements Company, this was a tri-service operation covering a range of tasks supporting New Zealand Government agencies in our Pacific neighbourhood.”
MetService personnel were aboard to assess available meteorological observing resources on the three atolls, and a New Zealand Police officer met the Tokelau Chief of Police and took part in community engagements.
Commander Andrew said the NZDF’s strong Pacific connections were an important part of the mission.
“Not only was the ship there for the centenary of New Zealand’s administration of Tokelau, but two Tokelauan members of the Navy were able to reunite with their families there.”
The ship’s company also had two Tongan speakers who were able to translate when Canterbury was last week called on to rescue two men drifting 105 nautical miles south of Tonga.
“Seeing the reaction when our two Tokelauan personnel were welcomed home was incredibly emotional for everyone who witnessed this, and having two Tongan speakers within our ship’s company meant we could reassure the rescued sailors that we would be delivering them home,” Commander Andrew said.
The ship’s final stop at Raoul Island allowed crew working parties to clear overgrowth from the Homestead and Green Lake areas, while NH90 helicopters and 5 Movements Company personnel secured and flew MetService and Earth Sciences NZ (ESNZ) personnel and equipment to remote parts of the island.
Critical tsunami and volcano monitoring equipment on Raoul Island, which provide an early warning system for New Zealand and the region, were upgraded.
As Canterbury returned to Devonport Naval Base this week, Commander Andrew reflected on what the mission had achieved.
“All the people who joined the ship from Her Excellency the Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro through to the MetService and ESNZ scientists and technicians, NZ Police, Army and Air Force personnel, fully immersed themselves in the ship’s culture and added to it.
“Canterbury’s motto is Kotahitanga (Unity) and this was certainly on display throughout.”
Federated Farmers has made it clear to the Government that it could support a national farm plan system, but only if it meets four firm bottom lines.
The Government is currently seeking feedback on its draft legislation to replace the Resource Management Act.
This includes a proposal to introduce nationally consistent farm plans under the new Natural Environment Bill.
“We’ve been looking closely at the wording and it’s fair to say we have some serious concerns,” Federated Farmers vice president Colin Hurst says.
“Farm plans should be a positive, practical and enabling tool that help farmers improve environmental outcomes in a way that makes sense on their own farms.
“We don’t want to see farm plans adding unnecessary complexity, duplication, or another layer of expensive regulation for farmers to grapple with.
“Unfortunately, we don’t think the regulations as they’re currently drafted will deliver what farmers are expecting or what’s been sold to them by politicians.
“That’s why Federated Farmers is stepping up, drawing a line in the sand, and making it clear we have four clear bottom lines when it comes to farm plans.”
Federated Farmers’ first and most important non-negotiable is that farm plans must replace regulation, not add to it.
“Farm plans need to be the primary compliance tool for farmers. That’s what will make a real difference for farming families,” Hurst says.
“That means a farm plan should be able to replace all of the overlapping rules, duplicated requirements and expensive resource consents from the current system.”
Under the proposed legislation, all commercial dairy farms and all other farms over 50 hectares would be required to have a farm plan covering the whole farm.
However, those same farms could still be required to get a resource consent in addition to their farm plan.
“That framework doesn’t simplify anything. In fact, it’s actually adding more complexity and duplication for farmers,” Hurst says.
“It’ll create a system that’s even more onerous than what farmers face now, where they either operate within permitted standards or apply for a resource consent.”
Federated Farmers wants to see changes so that a farm plan is enough to demonstrate compliance.
“A certified farm plan should be the equivalent of holding a resource permit or consent,” Hurst says.
The second bottom line is that farm plans must be proportionate, practical and scaled to risk.
“Farms that are low-impact and low-risk should be able to complete a simple, quick and easy plan themselves,” Hurst says.
“We agree that higher-risk farms may need more detailed plans, but there’s absolutely no point putting low-impact farms through the wringer.”
The third bottom line is that, while farm plans should be auditable, not every plan should be audited.
“Many farming activities are currently low-risk and don’t require consents or ongoing oversight,” Hurst says.
“Requiring those activities to have a farm plan, and then auditing that plan, will put in place expensive red tape for absolutely no environmental gain.
“It will waste time and money that could be put to far better use improving the environment rather than just ticking boxes and shuffling paper.”
Hurst says certification may make sense for higher-risk activities if it replaces the need for a consent, but routine auditing of every farm sends the wrong message.
“Audit-everyone systems don’t create a high-trust environment. They simply create a box-ticking culture and get farmers offside, rather than driving better outcomes.”
Federated Farmers is instead advocating for a model similar to the tax system.
“That means everyone is expected to do the right thing, but only some are audited, either randomly or where non-compliance is suspected.
“That’s a fair, practical approach that farmers can understand.”
The fourth bottom line is that existing farm plans must be recognised.
“Many farmers already have plans in place through industry programmes or local catchment groups,” Hurst says.
“Farmers have put real time, thought and money into these plans because they care about water quality.
“They shouldn’t be punished for being proactive or early adopters.”
Federated Farmers wants existing plans that meet minimum standards to be recognised as equivalent.
“Forcing farmers to start again from scratch would be a completely unjustifiable waste of time and money,” Hurst says.
While the detailed regulations are still to come, Hurst says expectations are clear.
“Farm plans must be tailored to risk and, for higher-risk farms, should become a genuine one-stop shop that replaces permits and consents.
Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand is deeply concerned following the Justice Committee’s report recommending by majority the progression of the Summary Offences (Demonstrations Near Residential Premises) Amendment Bill.
Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand’s Kaiwhakahaere Executive Director Jacqui Dillon said, “We recognise the important privacy rights this Bill is aimed at, however we’re concerned that this Bill will have a chilling effect on protest, silencing legitimate political expression.”
Throughout history, protests have been the driving force behind some of the most powerful social movements, exposing injustice and abuse, demanding accountability, and inspiring people to keep hoping for a better future.
There are laws already in place to respond to issues such as threatening behaviour.
“We’re concerned what will be captured is protest activity that in a healthy, thriving society should not be criminalised.
“While changes have been put forward by the Justice Committee, our concern remains that the Bill is too vague. The Bill uses terms such as “near”, but what is considered “near” isn’t clear. This lack of clarity risks creating uncertainty and as a result, people may feel too uncertain about what is allowed or not, and therefore don’t protest so as not to risk the significant penalties this Bill proposes.
“Globally we are seeing authoritarian practices and serious human rights regression. Aotearoa is not immune from these trends. We are seeing policies chipping away at our foundations and a number of policies with serious human rights concerns. We worry about the precedent this Bill sets and how this framework could be abused or set us on a path towards even more restrictions.
“We recognise that there is urgent work to be done to better protect Members of Parliament (MPs) and activists. This should be carried out by engaging with people who are especially impacted to develop solutions that are effective and that uphold human rights and Te Tiriti o Waitangi. This Bill is not the solution. We call on all MPs to vote against this Bill.” said Dillon.
A tough on crime approach and a near doubling of police foot patrols have driven a huge drop in the number of victims of violent crime since this Government was elected, figures show.
The latest New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey shows there were 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.
“Since day one, we’ve been working tirelessly to restore real consequences for crime, and to place victims back at the centre of the justice system,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“We have reformed the sentencing regime so those who cause the most harm are imprisoned for longer, given Police effective tools to deal with gangs, stopped taxpayer funding for the proliferation of cultural reports, made stalking an illegal and jailable offence, given victims of sexual assault the power to determine if offenders are granted name suppression, restored Three Strikes, and much more.”
“A higher visibility of Police in our communities goes a long way to deterring crime and keeping criminals off our streets,” Police Minister Mark Mitchell says.
“It is no coincidence that our back-to-basics approach to policing is having a positive effect on reducing violent crime. Backing our frontline has seen more Police out on the beat, with foot patrols almost doubling since coming into Government.
“Our investment into the frontline has seen 12 new and expanded beat teams stood up nationwide, including the launch of a beat team in Hamilton this week.
“Our beat officers do an outstanding job at keeping the public, businesses and retailers safe.
“We know there is a lot more to do but these results show we are heading in the right direction.”
“It’s very encouraging to see we’re continuing to track ahead of our violent crime reduction target, with there now being 49,000 fewer victims of serious violent crime than when we came into Government,” Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“The latest figures show 136,000 New Zealanders were victims of violent crime in the 12 months to October 2025. This huge drop in the number of people affected by violent crime is fantastic progress but our work is far from over.
“Our Government remains committed to restoring the basics in law and order and building a future where New Zealanders can feel safe in their communities.
“This is going to be another busy year. We just announced plans to provide police with the power to issue move-on orders to deal with disorderly behaviour. Our Crimes Amendment Bill is making its way through the house, and legislation to strengthen trespass laws will soon be introduced.”
Children’s Minister Karen Chhour says Oranga Tamariki figures show there has been a 22 per cent drop in serious repeat youth offending compared with when the Government came into office.
“This is well ahead of our target of a 15 per cent drop before 2030,” she says.
“We promised to fix what matters to New Zealanders. Ram raids are down 85 per cent. Kiwis are no longer being expected to live in fear that their cars have been stolen and used by young offenders in a ram raid of our local small businesses.
“Young offenders are avoiding re-offending because they know Courts, Oranga Tamariki and Police are working together more closely. They know now that their actions will have consequences.”
The Government welcomes the delivery of the final report from the Royal Commission of Inquiry into COVID-19 Lessons to the Governor-General this morning.
“I want to acknowledge the Royal Commission’s work to provide its final report. I also want to thank the thousands of Kiwis who had a part in shaping this report by making their voices heard through submissions on the terms of reference for Phase Two of the inquiry,” says Ms van Velden.
Both the ACT-National and New Zealand First-National coalition agreements included commitments to expanding the Inquiry into COVID-19, showing that a review into the response was important to many Kiwis.
“New Zealanders told us they weren’t satisfied with the narrow terms of the first phase of the Royal Commission’s inquiry – terms set by the same Government that made the decisions the Commission was investigating. It was important that we expand the Inquiry’s terms of reference to focus on the use of lockdowns and vaccine mandates, in particular inquiring into whether the Government considered the impact these decisions would have on society, our health and education, and on our economy.
“The inquiry is not simply about learning what the previous Government did wrong, it is about working out what we need to do right. The social and financial costs of the pandemic response continue to be felt across the economy and society. Even today, New Zealanders are facing the consequences as they struggle with the cost of living and the debt disaster the previous Government left behind. We simply cannot afford to repeat the same mistakes again.”
The Royal Commission’s final report will be made public when the report is presented to Parliament on 10 March 2026.
Health Minister Simeon Brown will now take on the Government’s response to the recommendations in the report.
“New Zealanders lived through some of the most significant pandemic restrictions in the world. Kiwis remember not being able to visit loved ones in hospital, struggling to secure a managed isolation spot just to return home, and keeping their kids home from school for months on end,” Mr Brown says.
“Aucklanders felt this more than most, with the previous government’s decisions leading to the region spending more than six months in lockdown – the longest of any region in the country.
“The uncertainty, the isolation, and the toll it took on families, small business owners, and communities were all a result of decisions made during that time. Those decisions had a significant impact on everyday Kiwis, and it is important we take the time to fully understand why those decisions were made, so that any future response properly weighs the health and economic needs of all New Zealanders.”
The Government and relevant agencies will carefully consider the findings of the report before responding to its recommendations.
Note to Editors:
The Royal Commission was established on 9 December 2022 to examine New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 and identify the lessons learned that should be applied in future.
In November 2024 the Government announced an expansion on the scope of the Royal Commission of Inquiry to include a review of the key decisions taken by the Government in New Zealand’s response to COVID-19 during 2021 and 2022.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced travel bans on members of the Iranian regime involved in the violent suppression of protests.RNZ / Mark Papalii
The Foreign Minister is warning New Zealanders to get out of Iran, adding that the advice to not travel there has been long-standing.
“It has been horrifying to witness the brutal killing of thousands of protesters in Iran,” Winston Peters said.
“Iranians have the right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and access to information. Those rights have been ruthlessly violated.”
New Zealand joined Australia, the United Kingdom, the European Union, Canada and the United States in implementing travel bans targeting 40 individuals, including Minister of the Interior Eskandar Momeni, Minister of Intelligence Esmail Khatib, and Prosecutor-General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad. It will also include members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Peters said if war broke out in Iran, which he said was possibly likely, there was a risk innocent New Zealand citizens could be retaliated against by the local regime.
He told RNZ he suspects there could be hundreds of Kiwis in Iran – currently 26 are registered as being there.
“The last time we had this exercise when we were getting people out rapidly when we thought there was an emergency it proved to be well over 130 and very dramatically in the last few days, so we just don’t know.
“Get out, I suppose, is the safest answer for us to give them, and it’s been the advice we’ve given them for some considerable time now,” he said.
In this circumstance Peters says there could be retaliation and that’s why he is encouraging New Zealanders to get out.
“If war was to break out the retaliation against innocent citizens who are there with no essence of guilt whatsoever could be nevertheless very huge, and that’s what we’re warning people against – not just getting caught up in the war but being caught up in retaliatory measures by the local regime.”
Peters told RNZ the motivation for New Zealanders staying in Iran is most likely being near family and making sure they’re safe.
“New Zealanders need to know we go to extraordinary efforts to try and keep our people safe but they have to do their bit to.”
On whether war is likely to break out in Iran, he said, “it’s possibly likely and you have to deal with the worst case circumstances if they arise and that’s what we’re trying to do”.
Peters said there were many countries who shared New Zealand’s view that “Iran is being supported by countless examples of terrorist proxies worldwide – and there are many Middle Eastern and Islamic countries who hold that view as well”.
On global tensions Peters told RNZ it’s the worst he’s seen it since World War II.
“It’s made things all that much more difficult for countries like New Zealand that’s got a tremendous record of supporting peaceful measures and engaging in freedom and democracy and the rule of law.
“It’s made it difficult for all of us but we’ve got to press on and make sure we don’t lose this battle,” he said.
At the time a ministry spokesperson said all diplomatic staff had left Iran on commercial flights, shifting operations to Ankara in Turkey.
The government’s long-standing advice over a number of years has been not to travel to Iran and in January, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) urged any New Zealanders still in the country to leave now.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
One in seven children are living in hardship in the latest recorded year, according to new data from Stats New Zealand.
The national statistics agency released the data for the year between July 2024 and June 2025 on Wednesday morning.
Around 17,900 households were interviewed for the research.
The number of children that were recorded as living in material hardship was 14.3 percent – one in seven.
There was no significant change in that from the year recorded prior or since 2018.
In the latest statistics, a child recorded as facing material hardship was recorded as being in a household going without seven or more of 18 necessities.
Those included being unable to pay for utilities on time, having to put up with feeling cold and putting off doctors visits.
That was a change to the year prior where the threshold for material hardship was six or more.
14.9 percent of Māori children were recorded in material hardship which was not statistically different to the year prior.
For Pacific children, that figure was 18.7 percent five points higher than in 2024.
17.8 percent of children lived in households with less than half of the 2018 year’s median equivalised disposable household income after housing costs were deducted.
That was not different to the year prior.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Jewelled geckos are native to the southeast of the South Island and are generally a striking bright green with diamond-shaped patches or stripes although in some populations the males are grey or brown. Their bodies grow up to 8 cm in length, but their tail doubles their length. Their New Zealand threat classification is “At Risk, Declining”. If you’re out naturing in forests or shrublands in places like Canterbury, Otago or Southland, you might be fortunate to see one.
DOC’s Wildlife Crime Team Leader Dylan Swain says a group of 14 jewelled geckos were discovered by Dutch wildlife authorities as part of Operation Thunder in 2023. Operation Thunder is an international operation, involving several government organisations and Interpol, which focusses on the illegal trade in protected wildlife.
“Jewelled geckos have never legally been exported from New Zealand,” Dylan says.
“It’s likely the geckos found by our Dutch counterparts were in fact smuggled out of New Zealand or are the offspring of such animals.”
Dutch authorities are continuing investigations into the person who was found with the geckos.
The six geckos returned to New Zealand comprise two males and four females.
They were returned to New Zealand in International Air Travel Association‑compliant individual containers with small ventilation holes and kept at a consistent temperature throughout their journey.
All geckos will receive close care and attention, and the entire group will spend a minimum of 60 days in quarantine as part of their return process.
Although some of the original group of animals have since died, DOC has worked closely with at The Netherlands NVWA (Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority), United for Wildlife (part of the Royal Foundation) and Korean Air to safely return the geckos all the way from Netherlands to New Zealand via Korea.
A Dutch inspector accompanied the geckos on their repatriation journey.
“We are delighted to be able to bring a small group of six of the geckos back to New Zealand,” Dylan says. “They’ll spend a quarantine period at Wellington Zoo before they’re shifted to a new permanent home.”
NVWA spokesperson Lex Benden says: “We are pleased our investigation has contributed to the geckos now being back where they belong.”
Dutch authorities are collaborating with DOC to share information on this matter and the wider trade in geckos across Europe.
NATURE LOOKS DIFFERENT FROM HERE
Nature isn’t scenery. Nature is a society that we rely on for everything, every day. It’s behind our identity and our way of life.
Innovative Kiwi drones will be trialled by the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) to strengthen capability while growing local industry, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today.
“We’re partnering with New Zealand businesses to ensure the Defence Force can protect our people into the future,” Ms Collins says.
“NZDF will buy and trial advanced uncrewed systems from New Zealand company Syos Aerospace, enabling access to mission-ready, combat proven technology.
“We’re further backing Kiwi businesses by bringing together Sysdoc for training support and Hirtenberger Defence Technology for advanced systems support.”
“This will inform future capability decisions on a technology that has rapidly become central to modern military operations.
Delivery of air, land, and sea drones will occur over the coming months, including the SG400 Uncrewed Ground Vehicle, the SM300 Uncrewed Surface Vessel, the SA2 ISR drone and the SA7 one way effector drone.
The Army and Navy will conduct trials in a range of scenarios, such as transporting supplies, performing maritime patrols, and completing route reconnaissance.
“Last year we announced our Defence Industry Strategy, which details how Defence and industry will work together to deliver the Defence Capability Plan while building a strong, resilient industry that delivers economic growth and grows our export markets,” Ms Collins says.
“Having cutting-edge drone technology developed and supported by local businesses will reduce supply chain risk and strengthen our resilience – exactly what the strategy is designed for.
“In an increasingly contested world, we’re building the future by equipping our Defence Force with innovative Kiwi products to keep our people safe.”
Notes to editor:
Syos Aerospace: Founded four years ago in Mount Maunganui and now a world-recognised innovator in uncrewed systems, Syos won the 2025 NZ Hi-Tech Company of the Year award. By partnering with Syos, the NZDF is plugging into a fast-moving technology company whose products are combat tested. For instance, Syos drones and USVs have already seen operational use in the conflict in Ukraine
Sysdoc: A New Zealand consulting firm specialising in learning development and digital training solutions. Sysdoc has a long track record with the NZDF (15+ years, 100+ projects) in modernising training and documentation. Sysdoc will design learning and training materials for the new systems.
Hirtenberger Defence Technology (HDT) Ltd: This company is known for things like advanced fire control systems, including mortar targeting software. The NZDF is exploring integration of the new drones with Hirtenberger’s Arcfire, a Fire Control System, designed and built in New Zealand, and the NZDF battle management system.
A temporary bridge is expected to be in place on State Highway 39 by mid‑March, reconnecting the community south of Pirongia after the Mangati Bridge was destroyed in heavy floods, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.
“Since the floods on 13 February, NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) , its contractors and consultants have moved at pace to restore access for south of Pirongia.
“A plan is now in place to install a 40‑metre steel‑framed temporary bridge slightly upstream of the existing two‑lane bridge. The bridge will have a 50‑tonne weight limit, with traffic managed by temporary traffic lights.
“Crews have already cleared tonnes of debris from the site, allowing specialist teams to begin work on both the temporary bridge and the permanent replacement. Council partners and landowners have recognised the urgency of this work and supported it every step of the way.
“We expect the Acrow (Bailey‑style) temporary bridge to be operational by mid‑March, subject to fine weather. The approaches are currently under construction, and assembly of the bridge on site is expected to take around four days.
“Work is also underway on accelerated design and procurement so construction of the new permanent two‑lane bridge can begin later this year.
“Restoring access safely and as quickly as possible is the priority, and I want to thank everyone involved for the extraordinary effort to reconnect this community.”
Notes to editor:
Two pictures are attached of the Mangati Bridge damage.
The Government is investing $200,000 in the Waimate Trail as part of its ongoing commitment to grow local tourism, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced today.
“I’m thrilled to be partnering locally and investing in this trail that showcases the unique South Canterbury countryside. It will attract more visitors to the region, supporting local businesses, jobs and communities,” Louise Upston says.
This funding will complete stage one of the trail, a 13km stretch from Waimate to Waihao Forks and is part of the Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package.
The local community has already raised around 80 per cent of the funding needed to complete stage one of the 67km trail, which traverses limestone rock formations, native forest, and scenic valleys.
“This trail will be popular with both locals and tourists celebrating South Canterbury’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
“By backing local projects and encouraging tourism in the regions, we’re continuing to drive economic growth,” Louise Upston says.
Notes to Editors
Once complete the Waimate Trail – Te Ara Waimatemate will be a 67 km loop trail that links with existing track networks.
Work has started on the cycle trail and stage one between Waimate and Waihao Forks is expected to be completed in late April/May
Between 9 July 2025 and 21 February 2026, bailiffs scanned 147,740 number plates and identified 2866 people with overdue court fines or reparations.
Of those identified, 600 people paid on the spot, 295 established some form of payment arrangement, 236 cars were seized and 120 cars were clamped.
The rest were either issued with a warning or no action was taken due to their situation, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith said.
“Eighty of the cars have already been sold at auction, with another 20 soon to go under the hammer. Ninety-eight people paid to avoid their car being sold.
“Overall, more than $708,621 has been recovered, and due to its success, the trial was expanded.”
Goldsmith said 40 number plate scanners had been in operation on streets and at some police breath testing stations since December 2025.
“This increase means all bailiffs across New Zealand have access to a device ahead of a possible permanent rollout.
“The message is simple: pay your court fines, or you will be walking home.”
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 February 2026 – Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR Government, delivered his 2026-27 Budget today (February 25), with a range of initiatives to support and diversify Hong Kong’s economic growth, boost innovation and technology (I&T), speed up development of the Northern Metropolis and proactively align with China’s National 15th Five-Year Plan.
The theme of the 2026-27 Budget, the fourth Budget of the current-term Government, is “Driving High-quality, Inclusive Growth with Innovation and Finance”.
Hong Kong SAR’s Financial Secretary, Paul Chan, delivers the 2026-27 Budget today (February 25)
“Over the past year, as a result of the booming economy and capital market, our tax revenue has increased. Coupled with the reinforced fiscal consolidation programme gradually bearing fruit, our public finances have improved sooner than expected,” Mr Chan said.
The Financial Secretary revealed that Hong Kong’s Consolidated Account was expected to register a surplus of $2.9 billion in the current fiscal year, instead of a deficit of about $67 billion as originally estimated. The Operating Account for 2025-26, which was originally estimated to record a deficit of about $3 billion, will register a surplus of $51.3 billion, he said.
It was also confirmed that Hong Kong’s economy expanded by 3.5% in 2025, with growth forecast to be between 2.5% and 3.5% for 2026.
Mr Chan noted that this year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, and he stressed the need for Hong Kong to actively align with the Plan.
“Our country’s sustained high-standard two-way opening-up, coupled with scientific and technological innovation, have presented us with new opportunities,” he said. “We must embrace the 15th Five-Year Plan with an innovative mindset, fostering new quality productive forces in accordance with local conditions.”
Mr Chan set out a series of measures to drive I&T development, including establishing the Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy; taking forward the Sandy Ridge data facility cluster project; promoting AI training; and accelerating digital intelligence transformation of the Government.
“We are pressing ahead with the industrialisation of AI and deepening its integration across various industries, while encouraging wider AI application, thereby achieving the target of adoption and utilisation by all,” he said.
The International Clinical Trial Academy will, he said, also be established to help enable the Chinese Mainland’s biomedicine technology to go global, attract foreign investment, and help develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub.
To facilitate the development of new industrialisation, the Budget has earmarked resources for establishing in Hong Kong the first national manufacturing innovation centre outside the Mainland, and the New Industrialisation Elite Enterprises Nurturing Scheme will be launched.
The Government will promote the full integration of technological innovation and industrial innovation through key infrastructure, including the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, and the San Tin Technopole in the Northern Metropolis.
To support financial services, Hong Kong will proactively align with national development strategies, advance the internationalisation of the Renminbi, and continuously reform the securities market.
The Government will legislate this year to enhance tax regimes for family offices and funds, as well as establish licensing regimes for digital asset dealing and custodian service providers.
“Despite the complex and ever-changing external environment, Hong Kong’s financial market has performed strongly and our financial system remains robust,” Mr Chan said. “We will continue to consolidate our existing strengths, tap into emerging fields, strengthen market systems and risk control and deepen financial co-operation in the GBA (Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area).”
Noting that Hong Kong saw a year-on-year 12 per cent increase in visitor arrivals last year, which had created business and job opportunities for related sectors, the Budget will allocate $1.66 billion (US$212 million) to the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).
“The HKTB will scale up its flagship events and promotion, introducing new elements and extending event duration, and organise more signature festive events to highlight Hong Kong’s East-meets-West uniqueness,” Mr Chan said.
The Budget also earmarks an additional funding of $1 billion (US$128 million) for the Built Heritage Conservation Fund to enrich city culture. Elsewhere, the Government will launch the Northern Metropolis Urban-rural Integration Fund as a pilot scheme to support rural tourism projects.
To further promote sports development in Hong Kong, the Financial Secretary will inject $1.2 billion (US$154 million) to the sports portion of the Arts and Sports Development Fund.
Mr Chan said that the global environment has remained volatile over the past year, and Hong Kong has continued to undergo economic transformation.
“Technological innovation, in particular the development of AI, has brought us a mix of opportunities and challenges. Yet, Hong Kong has always thrived amid changes and progressed through innovation. We must make full use of our strengths and leverage the resolute support of our country to speed up and scale up our economic development sustainably for creating better development opportunities for the people and enhancing their quality of life,” Mr Chan said.
For more details on the 2026-27 Budget, click here.