Politics – Page 41 – MIL-OSI Export

Kennedy Cherrington says the Maori jersey stands above them all. Instagram

For Kennedy Cherrington, nothing in rugby league carries more weight than the Māori jersey.

Despite playing at a World Cup, in State of Origins, and an NRLW grand final, Cherrington said the Māori jersey sits above them all.

She said the it connects her to something far bigger than the game.

“This kaupapa is everything to me. The Māori jersey is the pinnacle in the game for me personally and I know that’s a shared common feeling by my team-mates. I’ve been fortunate enough to play at World Cups and Origins and Grand Finals, but the Māori jersey is the pinnacle.

“I get to represent not just myself and my whanau, but my ancestors and everything we’ve worked towards being Māori in the land of today. So I just want to take back that narrative and show people that we can showcase our culture and game in one.”

Cherrington will run out alongside younger sister Ruben for the Māori vs Indigenous All Stars clash in Hamilton on Sunday.

“It’s not just a selection of random players. You have to be Māori to play here. So I think that’s the special thing and being surrounded by your own is such a wholesome feeling.

“It’s like all the whanau coming together and you just get to be yourself. This is probably one of the most well connected teams that I’ve been a part of because you share the same heritage.”

Despite growing up more than 2000km from her ancestral home, Cherrington’s connection to her whakapapa remained strong, thanks to her parents.

“They’ve always instilled confidence in us being Māori and learning the Māori way, they always reminded us, showed us where we come from, so we pay homage to our parents and all they had to sacrifice being away from their home because they miss it just as much.

“But obviously everything happens for a reason. We had to come over there for a fresh start and we’ve just harnessed that opportunity that they’ve sacrificed for us. But obviously not having our kapa haka or kohunga growing up has been kind of deflating because that’s what we kind of mourn for being in Australia.”

Cherrington said Māori representation is crucial for young wahine.

“You can’t be what you can’t see. and there’s so many little eyes, both Māori, non-Māori, watching us, looking at us going, ‘I want to be there. I want to be like them.’ And in a world full of a lot of negative things, we just want to be the positivity and the positive role models that they look to, leading the forefront and changing the narrative of how Māori are to be seen.”

Kennedy and Ruben Cherrington will run out together for the Maori All Stars this Sunday. Instagram

Joining the NRLW in 2020, Cherrington has seen a clear shift in the women’s game, most notably in the support they get from young fans.

“That’s probably been a bit of a pinch me moment, it’s been really, really noticeable. I was once that young girl looking up to people who I wanted to aspire to be like.

“So if someone says hello, I’ll always say hello back. If someone asks for a photo, I’ll always say yes and have a big smile on my face. I’m here, I’m a role model, whether I like it or not, well, I like it. So little eyes are watching you and monkey see monkey do, right? So yeah, that’s what you want to do, inspire the next generation because you were that young person.”

The Parramatta centre is also ensuring the women’s game has a strong players voice, having recently been appointed to the Rugby League Players Association as a player director.

“I’ve just been a big believer in standing up for change and using your voice when others don’t have a voice. So it’s just something that’s been in me since high school, speaking up. So I guess it’s kind of just transcended into rugby league world as well. I love seeing avenues of the game and how things roll and advocating for change.”

That change has been significant in the past six years.

“Some of the girls that have been around since those early days have just seen like, wow, we’ve gone to be basically afterthought to actually being in the forefront of the game itself here in Australia and New Zealand.

“We didn’t even have lockers or proper changing rooms, we were wearing men’s playing gear, had no maternity leave, and none of us having that well-being support. They were expecting a professional product, but not treating us like professionals. So that conversation has changed and it’s just come such a long way.

However Cherrington said more still needs to be done to get on equal footing with the NRL.

“Obviously, a fully professional schedule, that’s a big one. I’d love to see us finally transition slowly into the full-time space. It’ll take some time because I know a lot of the girls have still got full-time jobs, but I think we’d see a massive reflection of quality. I love our game and I just want to see a positive change for our future for our women.”

Locked in at the Eels until 2027, Cherrington did not rule out a potential move to Aotearoa and switch to the Warriors.

“I grew up supporting the Warriors and I do have a special place for them in my heart, beyond 2027? Who knows?”

Kennedy Cherrington scoring a try during her rugby days in 2018. Photosport

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/rugby-league-maori-jersey-the-pinnacle-for-kennedy-cherrington/

February 11, 2026

Vascular surgery now available in Northland

Source: New Zealand Government

Northlanders will now be able to access key vascular surgery procedures at Whangārei Hospital, marking an important step in improving access to essential specialist care in the region.

“People in Northland who need renal fistula surgery or varicose vein treatment will now be able to receive that care closer to where they live, without having to travel to Auckland,” Mr Brown says.

“Travelling for treatment can be stressful and disruptive for patients and their families, and providing these procedures locally is a practical step that will make a real difference.”

The new service builds on the vascular outpatient clinics and nurse specialist support that Auckland-based teams have provided for some time. While specialist teams have regularly travelled north to support patients, until now surgery itself could only be completed in Auckland.

“Delivering these procedures monthly at Whangārei Hospital is the next stage in strengthening the vascular service for Northlanders.

“It expands on the longstanding support provided by visiting vascular teams and reflects a commitment to ensuring more care is delivered as close to home as possible.”

Clinical nurse specialists have also been recruited to coordinate care, provide pre- operative and post operative support, and ensure patients have a seamless experience across both local and visiting services.

“Improving access to quality health services in regional and rural New Zealand is a priority for the Government. Strengthening services in places like Northland is an important part of fixing the basics and building a health system that works better for patients across the country,” Mr Brown says.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/vascular-surgery-now-available-in-northland/

February 11, 2026

Government launches independent review into Reserve Bank’s Covid-19 response

Source: Radio New Zealand

The review into the Reserve Bank was to identify key lessons, the government said. (File photo) RNZ

The government is launching an independent review of the Reserve Bank’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic, due to be published just months out from the election.

The review – to be released in September – will focus on the central bank’s actions, including cutting the official cash rate to 0.25 percent and engaging in money printing.

It would also look at the coordination of monetary and fiscal policy – that is, how the bank’s response interacted with the government’s.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis said the review’s purpose was to identify any key lessons, in light of the associated spike in inflation and house prices.

“The Reserve Bank of New Zealand took unprecedented action in response to the Covid-19 pandemic,” she said.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis. (File photo) RNZ / Nathan McKinnon

“These actions helped to preserve jobs and keep businesses afloat, but the indirect impacts included decades-high inflation, and losses of about $10.3 billion on the LSAP [Large Scale Asset Purchase] programme and a significant spike in asset values with house prices increasing 30 per cent in one year.”

In October, Reserve Bank chief economist Paul Conway told a Sydney investment conference the LSAP scheme, commonly referred to as money printing, had effectively paid for itself and helped the economy to function at a time of stress.

“By boosting economic activity during the pandemic, LSAPs increased government tax revenues,” Conway said.

“This higher revenue almost entirely covered the direct losses from LSAPs, leaving consolidated crown debt virtually unchanged over the medium term.”

Other commentators have strongly criticised the LSAP programme, the cost and the related programme of $19b of cheap loans to banks.

Monetary policy experts Athanasios Orphanides and David Archer have been appointed to carry out the independent review.

Orphanides was a former governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus and member of the Governing Council of the European Central Bank.

Archer was a former Reserve Bank assistant governor and former head of the Central Banking Studies Unit at the Bank for International Settlements.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/11/government-launches-independent-review-into-reserve-banks-covid-19-response/

February 11, 2026

Sheep farmers come to parliament to celebrate record year

Source: New Zealand Government

Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has today hosted a celebratory barbecue for farmers, industry representatives and MPs to mark the upcoming National Lamb Day on 15 February.

“As we honour the legacy of the pioneers behind the first shipment of frozen sheep meat to the United Kingdom, we also celebrate lamb exports exceeding $4 billion for the first time last year,” Mr McClay says.

“Today we acknowledge the red meat sector and its significant economic contribution to New Zealand, as well as the hardworking men and women behind that success.

“Agriculture is the backbone of our economy. Meat and wool export revenue alone is forecast to increase seven per cent to $13.2 billion in the year to 30 June 2026.

“The efforts of New Zealand’s hard-working sheep and beef farmers support tens of thousands of jobs, and the sector is crucial to New Zealand’s ambitious goal of doubling the value of exports in 10 years.

“This Government is focused on building the future. We’re cutting red tape through significant reforms, building trade, boosting farmgate returns, and investing in the health of rural New Zealand,” Mr McClay says.

“Since coming to Government, we have concluded, signed and entered into force the NZ–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, finished negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council, and secured a high-quality, once-in-a-generation Free Trade Agreement with India.

“We’ll continue removing barriers to trade, opening doors to new partners and making the most of strong trading relationships.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/sheep-farmers-come-to-parliament-to-celebrate-record-year/

February 11, 2026

Big gaps in awareness, treatment, support for ovarian cancer

Source: Radio New Zealand

Nearly half of all New Zealand women with ovarian cancer are being diagnosed in emergency departments across the country. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

A new report says there are big gaps in New Zealand awareness, treatment and support for ovarian cancer which is the least survivable women’s cancer and takes one woman’s life every two days.

The Ovarian Cancer Foundation released new research at Parliament on Wednesday which found significant gaps in New Zealand’s awareness, diagnosis, treatment, support, research and clinical trials for ovarian cancer.

The report titled State of Ovarian Cancer Report – Aotearoa New Zealand 2025 said that there are an average of 306 new diagnoses each year and that one woman dies of the disease every 48 hours.

The foundation’s general manager, Liz Pennington, told Midday Report that there was a lack of awareness and understanding of the signs and symptoms of ovarian.

“We know that in New Zealand for example, nearly half of all women are actually being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in emergency departments across Aotearoa and we certainly know that when women are attending Accident and Emergency they’re attending because obviously they’re in pain or the presenting really acutely.”

That was a significantly higher rate of women being diagnosed in A and E than in Australia, where the rate was 21 to 28 percent, she said.

Crosses representing ovarian cancer deaths on the steps of Parliament after a petition with more than 7000 signatures, calling for national diagnostic guidelines to be developed for ovarian cancer was presented there on 16 March 2021. RNZ / Dom Thomas

New Zealand had a very low level of research funding into ovarian cancer when compared with comparable companies, she said.

“When it comes to access to things like clinical trials currently in New Zealand women can only access five, again if we look across the Tasman in Australia women can access 44.”

Another issue is problems with accessing ultrasound for New Zealand women which meant that diagnosis was often significantly delayed, with women being encouraged to pay to go privately when and if they could, she said.

“And we’ve got 30 percent of women dying in that first year from the diagnosis that I talked about and a five year survival rate of only 42.8 percent, so a really significant issue needing significant investment and a plan of action really.”

A woman who went to the GP in Australia with potential symptoms of ovarian cancer such as bloating, feeling full without having eaten a lot and changes to bowel or bladder habits would be treated differently from one in New Zealand, she said.

“In Australia the pathway would be pelvic exam, so you know a feel of her tummy and things, a discussion and then she can be sent for both a blood test and a scan, here in New Zealand that’s not the case.”

In New Zealand, the woman may be sent for the blood test which is called CA125 and then after that she would be likely to have to revisit the GP where there could be problems getting an appointment and then she might be sent for an ultrasound, she said.

“But the large majority of GPs were telling us in the survey that access to ultrasound was difficult and that it was one of the key factors delaying diagnosis – so that’s something that needs to change.”

Three new treatments for ovarian cancer had been released in New Zealand in the last five years which had reduced the gap with Australia, she said.

But if those treatments were not funded then patients and their families had to resort to things like crowd funding or mortgaging their houses to pay for it, she said.

The report urges health decision-makers to implement the following actions:

Add ovarian cancer symptoms education to the national cervical screening programme and clarify that screening does not detect other gynaecological cancers
Amend Health Pathways to allow GPs to refer symptomatic women for an ultrasound at their first GP visit
Identify people at higher genetic risk before they get ovarian cancer
Address gynae-oncology specialist shortages
Prioritise ovarian cancer clinical trials
Increase funding and focus on ovarian cancer by the Health Research Council
Address data gaps and make accurate, real-time data more accessible across the health system
Improve medicines access and investment
Include people with lived experience, their whānau and patient advocacy groups in service design, policy and research

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/big-gaps-in-awareness-treatment-support-for-ovarian-cancer/

February 11, 2026

Safety restrictions eased on four Tauranga homes after landslide

Source: Radio New Zealand

Damaged property from the landslide at Welcome Bay on 23 January. RNZ / Calvin Samuel

All four homes red-stickered in Tauranga’s Welcome Bay after a deadly landslide last month have had their safety restrictions eased.

The large slip hit neighbouring homes on Welcome Bay Road killing two people during the storm that hit the upper and eastern North Island.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council said yellow stickers had replaced the red.

“Given the land had dried out since the weather event, and the ‘additional weight’ on the land reduced, council’s consultant geotechnical engineers deemed the risk of imminent slip had reduced to a point where the properties could be accessed, under certain conditions,” it said.

Three homes had a Y2 type of sticker which allowed short-term access, and one had a more onerous Y1 which allowed access only to certain parts of a building.

It was up to the homeowners what to do next.

“Additional geotechnical investigations for affected properties will need to be undertaken by the homeowners in conjunction with their insurance companies, to identify a way forward to remove the hazards,” council duty controller Peter Watson said in a statement.

The council was not considering an inquiry, he said.

An [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/585703/tauranga-city-council-votes-for-independent-review-into-fatal-mt-maunganui-landslide

independent inquiry] is going ahead nearby under Tauranga City Council into the Mt Maunganui campground landslide that killed six people, and the government may also do an inquiry.

Last month, local resident Dawn McNaughton said there were seven slips on her property on Welcome Bay Road. Supplied

No detailed survey of landslide risks

The history of landslides in the Welcome Bay area included a geotech study in 1980 that said: “Recent subdivisions in Welcome Bay should be examined by a geotechnical engineer as the area contains many inferred landslides, which may be reactivated by urban development.”

It was titled A preliminary assessment of geological factors influencing slope stability and landslipping in and around Tauranga city.

“The site of the fatal slip was not subdivided until the 1990s, with the building having been built in the year 2000, therefore it would not have been one of the subdivisions mentioned in the report,” Watson told RNZ on Tuesday.

The council had not carried out a detailed survey or assessment of landslide risks for the parts of Welcome Bay Road in the district, he said.

“We instead require that the stability of subdivisions on sloping ground … is assessed and demonstrated by an accredited geotechnical engineer or geologist as part of the resource consent process.”

Urban and lifestyle development areas that were known to be susceptible to land instability from studies done in 1981 and 2009 became a focus, but the Welcome Bay Road properties were zoned rural and not included in these studies.

The studies provided input for its district plan hazard maps, covering:

For the latter, “the scale at which this assessment was completed does not allow analysis on a site-by-site or individual subdivision scale”, Watson said.

The Geotechnical Society has a list of geotech studies in the area.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/safety-restrictions-eased-on-four-tauranga-homes-after-landslide/

February 11, 2026

Independent review of Covid-19 monetary policy

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has instigated an independent review of New Zealand’s monetary policy response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis says the purpose of the review is to identify any lessons New Zealand could learn to improve the monetary policy response to future major events.

“An independent review means the conclusions found can be objective and constructive.

“The Reserve Bank of New Zealand took unprecedented action in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. This included reducing the Official Cash Rate to 0.25 per cent, and the use of additional monetary policy tools, including a Large Scale Asset Purchase (LSAP) programme.

“These actions helped to preserve jobs and keep businesses afloat, but the indirect impacts included decades-high inflation, and losses of about $10.3 billion on the LSAP programme and a significant spike in asset values with house prices increasing 30 per cent in one year.

“The purpose of the review is to learn from experience. It will focus on decisions by the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), and analysis provided by the Reserve Bank to support those decisions. This includes MPC decision making and communication, the use of additional monetary policy tools, and the coordination of monetary and fiscal policy.”

Monetary policy experts Athanasios Orphanides and David Archer have been appointed to conduct the independent review.

Dr Orphanides is a former governor of the Central Bank of Cyprus and member of the Governing Council of the European Central Bank, and a professor of the Practice of Global Economics and Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Mr Archer is a former Reserve Bank assistant governor and former head of the Central Banking Studies Unit at the Bank for International Settlements.

The review is expected to be completed in August 2026 and publicly released in September 2026.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/independent-review-of-covid-19-monetary-policy/

February 11, 2026

Palmerston North Hospital ED expansion underway

Source: New Zealand Government

Construction is underway to expand and upgrade Palmerston North Hospital’s emergency department, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“This redevelopment is a practical, front-line investment that will make a real difference for patients and staff, helping to reduce wait times while improving safety, privacy, and the overall flow of care,” Mr Brown says.

The $14.455 million project is part of the Government’s $100 million hospital infrastructure programme funded through Budget 2025, accelerating improvements across health facilities nationwide.

“The upgrade will increase emergency department capacity by around 40 percent, delivering 15 additional points of care, a new mental health assessment room, and redesigned spaces that support better patient flow, privacy, and safety.

“Palmerston North Hospital’s emergency department was built 25 years ago, and demand now far exceeds what it was designed for. This redevelopment will deliver a modern, efficient, patient-centred environment that is better equipped to respond to growing demand and seasonal pressures, including winter.”

Palmerston North Hospital’s emergency department is the central hub for emergency care across the MidCentral district, supporting Whanganui Hospital, Dannevirke Community Hospital, and Horowhenua Health Centre.

“This investment strengthens the wider regional network and helps ensure people across region can access timely emergency care close to home.”

Mr Brown says the Government’s $100 million investment programme is delivering 21 local projects across the country to expand and upgrade clinical spaces, strengthen essential infrastructure, and reduce the risk of disruption to critical health services.

“Our Government is focused on practical improvements that strengthen hospital services and put patients at the centre, with targeted upgrades that lift capacity where it is needed most, including here at Palmerston North Hospital.”

The emergency department will remain open throughout the redevelopment, which is expected to be completed in June 2026.

“This work is being carried out while keeping services running, ensuring patients can continue to access care as we build the capacity Palmerston North needs for the future,” Mr Brown says.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/palmerston-north-hospital-ed-expansion-underway/

February 11, 2026

New Zealand’s corruption-free reputation takes hit for fourth-year in a row – survey

Source: Radio New Zealand

Voter fraud allegations and a lack of transparency around political lobbying and funding were some of the top concerns. (File photo) Pixabay/shafin_protic

New Zealand’s reputation for low levels of corruption has taken a hit for the fourth year in a row.

In global organisation Transparency International’s latest Corruption Perception Index – a survey of surveys measuring how corrupt a country is thought to be – New Zealand’s score has fallen two points.

New Zealand still ranked highly in fourth place alongside Norway, and behind Denmark, Finland and Singapore.

“We used to be first in the world and we’ve just seen a continual drop down the ladder – about 10 percent in four years,” Transparency International New Zealand chairperson Anne Tolley said.

“It sort of feels like the wheels are coming off a bit and that’s really dangerous for our democracy.”

Voter fraud allegations and a lack of transparency around political lobbying and funding are some of the top concerns, with prosecutions for bribery, deception and misuse of public funds adding to potential reputational damage.

“A strong democracy has people feeling very confident about those democratic systems and wanting to take part,” Tolley said.

Corruption perception versus reality

Transparency International’s concerns were mirrored in the pilot report released Tuesday from the Anti-Corruption Taskforce, lead by the Serious Fraud Office.

The report looked at how big the issue of fraud and corruption was within public agencies and how well-equipped they were to find and prevent it.

“Cases of internal fraud and corruption are almost certainly being under-reported, due to a number of factors, and the true scale of the issue remains unclear,” the report said.

It highlighted the need for a national anti-corruption strategy, according to Tolley, and it was crucial for New Zealand’s reputation as a small trading nation reliant on global relationships.

“The world’s become more conscious of dirty money – that money is that’s derived from the drug trade and prostitution and modern slavery,” she said.

“We’re all more aware of being sure that we are we are investing and trading with a country that has good systems in place to stop that.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/new-zealands-corruption-free-reputation-takes-hit-for-fourth-year-in-a-row-survey/

February 11, 2026

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

Source: Government House

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

To the people of Tokelau, Malo Ni! My wife and I have such fond and lasting memories of meeting members of the Tokelauan community during our visits to New Zealand, and so it gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest greetings to you on the very special occasion of the 100th anniversary of Tokelau’s unique relationship with New Zealand.

The flag of Tokelau depicts a canoe under full sail, voyaging towards the stars of the Southern Cross; stars which have helped Tokelauans navigate the Pacific waters for centuries. On this milestone anniversary, I hope that all Tokelauans can take pride in their nation’s voyage over the past 100 years and your many achievements in that time. The Tokelauan voice is vital on the global stage, reminding the world of the urgency with which we must all act to ensure that the rich natural beauty and vibrant cultural heritage not only of your nation, but also of so many small island states around the world, continue to thrive in the years to come.

Although, sadly, I am unable to join you in person as you embrace this opportunity to reflect on the past and look towards the future, I particularly wanted to send you my very best wishes for your celebrations.

CHARLES R.

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

February 11, 2026

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

Source: ASB

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Investing in our customer experience

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

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

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

Further customer protections

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

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

Investing in New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

Saving for the future

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

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

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

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

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

Income Statement ($ millions)
For the half year ended 31 December	2025	2024	Dec 25 vs Dec 24 %
Net interest income	1,602	1,471	9
Other operating income	233	233	–
Total operating income	1,835	1,704	8
Operating expenses	(839)	(695)	21
Operating performance	996	1,009	(1)
Loan impairment expense	(3)	(17)	(82)
Net profit before tax	993	992	–
Corporate tax expense	(274)	(278)	(1)
Cash net profit after tax (“Cash profit”¹)	719	714	1

Reconciliation of Cash profit to Statutory profit
Cash profit	719	714	1
Reconciling items:
Hedging and IFRS volatility²	7	(7)	large
Notional inter-group charges³	53	71	(25)
Reporting structure differences⁴	6	6	–
Tax on reconciling items	(20)	(21)	(5)
Net profit after tax (“Statutory profit”)	765	763	–

Performance indicators (cash basis)			6
Net interest margin (%)	2.35	2.29	6 bpts
Return on assets (%)	1.0	1.1	(10) bpts
Operating expenses to total operating income (%)	45.7	40.8	490 bpts
Return on average total equity (%)	12.0	12.6	(60) bpts

Statutory Balance Sheet ($ billions)
As at 31 December	2025	2024	Dec 25 vs Dec 24 %
Advances to customers	118.7	111.6	6
Total assets	139.7	131.9	6
Deposits and other borrowings	94.5	94.8	–
Total liabilities	127.4	120.5	6

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

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

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

MIL OSI

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

February 11, 2026

Equal employment opportunities

Source: Privacy Commissioner

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

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

Policy Statement

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

2.2. To achieve this OPC seeks to:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Responsibilities

General Manager	Framework development, implementation and compliance monitoring. Progression against OPC’s Kia Toipoto and DEI Action Plans.Supporting and training for OPC leaders and teams.
Managers	Creating an environment that promotes EEO/diversity. Understanding their obligations under applicable legislation and processes and ensuring compliance.Ensuring that all practices and procedures that apply to the staff for whom they are responsible are consistent with this policy.
All employees	Accountability for themselves and their activities to act in accordance with our EEO principles and OPC values.

References

Relevant Legislation

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

MIL OSI

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

February 11, 2026

Nearly 40,000 more building products approved

Source: New Zealand Government

Thousands more plumbing and drainage products already used widely in Australia can now be accessed easily by Kiwi tradies and do-it-yourself homeowners.

“The Government is focused on fixing the basics and building a better future for New Zealand, and that means making it easier and more affordable to deliver the homes and public buildings that will ease house prices and lift living standards,” Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.

“It’s great to see the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) recognise a second tranche of overseas building products certified under the reputable Australian WaterMark scheme, issuing 54 recognition notices that cover around 38,274 products.

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

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

“By amending the Building Act through the Overseas Building Products Amendment Bill, MBIE can now recognise building products already certified under overseas schemes in comparable countries in the tens of thousands, rather than one at a time.

“The granting of these recognition notices means Building Consent Authorities must accept the products as compliant, reducing unnecessary red tape, costs, and delays while allowing a more diverse range of materials to be used.

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

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

Notes to editor: 

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

MIL OSI

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

February 11, 2026

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

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance Minister Nicola Willis. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Labour Party energy spokesperson Megan Woods. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

February 11, 2026

Minister to attend Munich Security Conference

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ms Collins will return to New Zealand on 16 February.

MIL OSI

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

February 11, 2026

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

Source: PSA

The PSA is calling on the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) to pause a proposal to cut security guards from three to two at 20 offices around the country until the union is satisfied that proper risk assessments have been carried out.

MSD is planning to introduce the two-guard model at smaller centres across the country from Waiuku through to Gore (see note below).

“Every worker deserves to be safe at work, and this decision risks repeating the mistakes of the past,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.

“The PSA formally asked for site specific risk assessments to be undertaken in a letter to MSD on 3 February 2025.

“The PSA met with MSD this week to discuss concerns that the proposal to reduce security guards was developed without consultation with workers who would be most impacted.

“MSD claims to have undertaken a site assessment, but this has not yet included consultation with workers on the sites or the union. The voice of workers and the union is critical for risks to be properly considered.

“We have asked for a copy of the so-called site assessments so we can determine if they adequately assess risk facing our members. MSD has not agreed to provide the assessments but has agreed to discuss them further with the PSA.”

MSD has now committed to engaging with PSA members at each site which is a welcome development, but we have no commitment that decisions to reduce security guard numbers will be re-visited.

“We remain concerned that the approach from MSD disrespects the vital role security guards play in keeping both MSD workers and members of the public safe. They can de-escalate tense situations before they spiral out of control.

“People often come to MSD offices at the most stressful times of their lives – dealing with unemployment, housing insecurity, or financial hardship. Sometimes they take their frustrations out on frontline staff.

“In an environment of increased unemployment and lack of housing, this is exactly the wrong time to be reducing security.”

The PSA will continue to press MSD for specific risk assessments that reflect the concerns of workers for each of the 20 impacted sites before the proposal can be finalised.

Note: the impacted offices are in Alexandra, Balclutha, Cambridge, Dannevirke, Feilding, Foxton, Gore, Greymouth, Marton, Matamata, Ngāruawāhia, Ōtaki, Queenstown, Stratford, Taihape, Te Kūiti, Wainuiomata, Waitara, Waiuku and Westport

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI

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

February 11, 2026

International Convention Centre a major win for tourism and hospitality

Source: New Zealand Government

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has welcomed the official opening of the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC), the country’s largest conference, exhibition and entertainment venue, describing it as a significant milestone.

“Today’s grand opening of this multi-purpose convention space is a game changer for New Zealand’s capacity to host world‑class events,” Louise Upston says.

“The opportunities this venue creates for New Zealand’s tourism and hospitality sector are enormous, whether it be hosting large international conferences, national ceremonies or local events.

“The NZICC strengthens our ability to attract major conventions and events, showcasing the very best of New Zealand to the world. With capacity for more than 4,000 attendees, the NZICC is an incredible space designed not only for business, but for a wide range of cultural events and activities.

“This is a huge moment for New Zealand, helping attract more international visitors to our shores and giving a significant boost to our economy.”

Located in the heart of Auckland, the NZICC has been designed to support large‑scale conventions and events, incorporating state‑of‑the‑art technology, flexible meeting spaces, and sustainable design features intended to serve both domestic and global audiences.

To date, more than 120 events have been confirmed for 2026, including two of Australasia’s largest association conferences – The Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA) and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO).

“The strong pipeline of events NZICC already has confirmed means more job opportunities for our people in the tourism and hospitality sector,” Louise Upston says.

“I can’t wait to see the first conferences and concerts filling these spaces, putting New Zealand firmly on the map as a go-to-destination.

“New Zealand is open for business – and we’re ready to welcome many more visitors in 2026 and beyond.”

The New Zealand International Convention Centre is owned by SkyCity Entertainment Group, operating in partnership with the New Zealand Government.

Notes to Editor:

The NZICC is the largest conference, exhibition, and entertainment venue in New Zealand, with capacity for more than 4,000 attendees. The NZICC theatre is the largest seated theatre in the country, seating 2,850 people, while the hall will be able to host 3,300 people for a banquet.
In 2013, the Government and SkyCity agreed to build a new international convention centre for Auckland, including a 300-room hotel and 1,300 car parks. The Agreement was codified in law under the New Zealand International Convention Centre Act 2013 (the Act).

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/international-convention-centre-a-major-win-for-tourism-and-hospitality/

February 11, 2026

Ministry of Social Development set to cut security guards

Source: Radio New Zealand

The number of security guards at Work and Income offices are being reduced throughout the country (file image). supplied

The Ministry of Social Development is planning to cut the number of security guards at Work and Income offices throughout the country.

Twenty jobs are set to go at 20 offices in regional towns next month – reducing the number of guards at these sites from three to two.

Security guards and unions are blaming cost-cutting and are alarmed at the safety risks the lay-offs pose, following the murders of two Ashburton Work and Income employees in 2014.

The Ministry of Social Development, which employs Allied Security as a contractor, told RNZ the changes aren’t driven by cost-cutting and follow safety upgrades and changes to office lay-out, including bringing outside guards inside.

E tū union said the offices affected are in Alexandra, Balclutha, Cambridge, Dannevirke, Feilding, Foxton, Gore, Greymouth, Marton, Matamata, Ngāruawāhia, Ōtaki, Queenstown, Stratford, Taihape, Te Kūiti, Wainuiomata, Waitara, Waiuku and Westport.

Russell John Tully in the Ashburton Work and Income office during his killing spree in 2014. Supplied

‘The risk is real at any office’ – security guard

Security guard Henare Eynon, who works in Marton, told RNZ he was worried for the safety of Work and Income staff, his colleagues and the public.

“Going from three guards to two guards is a significant change, it’s not just one person less, it’s a 50 percent increase for the remaining two, and the loss of a spare pair of eyes.”

In 2014, Russell John Tully walked into the Ashburton Work and Income offices armed with a shotgun and killed two staff members, Peggy Noble and Leigh Cleveland. Tully was sentenced to life in prison for murder.

Eynon said that could happen again.

“The risk is real at any office – it depends on the person that’s coming in, and what condition the person is in – there are a lot of mental health clients out there that will go off their rockers at times.”

He said while many clients are respectful, he’s dealt with dangerous situations over the past several years as a guard in the lower North Island – including a client threatening to drive into a Work and Income office, and another attempting to come inside with a knife.

One man threatened violence when he was asked to sign in at the front desk, Eynon said, but he talked him out of it.

“He says I’m coming over there to punch you in the f***ing head, and I said come on then, you’re welcome to try, but you’re going to end up in jail if you do that, and I said it calmly.”

Eynon said he’s not taking aim at his employer Allied Security or the Ministry of Social Development staff – but believes the government is behind a decision to cut costs.

Another security guard from the lower North Island, who RNZ has agreed not to name, said even small offices could deal with “nasty” experiences on a monthly basis.

“The vulnerability of the staff is a big concern to me, because once trouble happens, especially in small sites, it’s hard to get away from.”

He disagreed with a recent change to bring guards standing outside inside the offices.

“We have no ability to check people’s intoxication, mental health, level of aggression before they enter the building, and once they’re in, they’re in, and it’s far more difficult to get somebody out of an office, rather than just stop them at the door.”

E tū national secretary Rachel Mackintosh said the government and Allied Security should immediately stop the changes.

She said the Ashburton shooting drove MSD to employ extra security guards, and ensure three were stationed at each office.

“It’s as if everyone involved has forgotten about the tragic events that occurred in Ashburton, or they are willing to risk it happening again to save a few bucks?

“What we don’t know is any rationale for reducing the number of guards – we haven’t seen that – we don’t know whether the employer Allied Security has been provided that information from MSD, but certainly we haven’t seen it.”

Public Service Association national secretary Fleur Fitzsimmons said she had requested a full risk assessment from MSD over the changes, but that consultation with MSD workers at offices had so far not happened.

“There is widespread anxiety amongst staff over these changes.

“People come to these MSD offices in times in their lives which are distressing, and too often they take their frustrations out on staff. The security guards are an absolutely critical safety initiative for staff and members of the public,” Fitzsimmons said.

Ashburton’s Work and Income office following the shooting. RNZ / Alexander Robertson

‘Confident’ we’ve responded to Ashburton – MSD

The killings in Ashburton prompted MSD to launch an internal review, and employ an extra 100 security guards at Work and Income centres.

Worksafe brought charges against MSD and in 2016, Judge Jan-Marie Doogue found the ministry had failed to ensure there was no physically unrestricted access to the staff working area.

Ministry of Social Development deputy chief executive for organisational and risk assurance, Melissa Gill, told RNZ MSD had invested $80 million over the last 10 years in a major upgrade to all its sites, including implementing lockdown zones and upgrading security equipment.

She said MSD took the safety of all staff and clients at offices seriously.

“I’m confident that we have responded to the events in Ashburton, we’ve had a concerted programme of work over the past 10 years, we’ve created safer and more secure spaces in our sites, we ensure our staff are well-trained and supported to respond to incidents should they occur.”

Ministry of Social Development’s Melissa Gill. RNZ

She said reducing guard numbers was not due to cost-cutting, but part of a review of security settings including a decision to move guards standing outside, inside.

Gill said MSD’s data had shown a drop in serious incidents being reported, and there would still be between two and five security guards across all 121 Work and Income offices.

She said the agency had done a risk assessment at every office, had “planned and tested” the specific changes over a number of years, and kept the PSA informed.

Gill said bringing the security guards inside was safer for them, and guards could watch for a client’s behaviour from inside offices.

“The guards receive training from Allied on how to observe people’s action as they are approaching an environment, so they are able to monitor that as the person is approaching the site.”

She said if a serious incident occurred, guards and staff were trained to go into lockdowns, and worked closely with the police.

Gill did not rule out further cuts to guards at other sites.

“It would be fair to say this is an ongoing programme of work but I can’t comment on that at the moment because we are still working through the process with our sites and with the PSA.”

Allied Security general manager of operations Chris McDowall said MSD advised the company of a change of operating model for selected sites within the wider contract.

He said Allied supported the changes following a trial in 2025.

“We expect minimal role losses as part of this process and remain focused on the wellbeing of our staff and all those affected by any change process.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/ministry-of-social-development-set-to-cut-security-guards/

February 11, 2026

Morning Report live: Paul Goldsmith defends pulling the plug on retail crime group

Source: Radio New Zealand

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The Justice Minister says it’s uncharitable to say a government retail crime advisory group was a waste of time.

Paul Goldsmith has confirmed the group will wind down four months early, after three of its five members walked away.

Labour this week said it was a stunt from day one, and that it came up with was ideas previously dismissed as ineffective or unsafe.

Police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said the group recycled the bad plans, instead of listening to retailers, victims, and police, and that its wind-down is embarassing for the government.

But Goldsmith said retail crime was a real problem, and suggestions the group put forward had been enacted in legislation to make a real difference.

He dismissed criticism of chairman Sunny Kaushal’s behaviour, saying he was a fierce defender of victims.

Kaushal said his priority was to deliver reform for victims of retail crime, and not to have an “endless talking group”.

“I’m very relaxed about the ministerial advisory group winding up in May,” he said.

“I made sure the MAG delivered our advisory work quickly, so that victims could see legislation in the House before we wrapped up.

“I thought this more important than pursuing endless ‘frameworks’ that other MAG members would have prioritised.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/11/morning-report-live-paul-goldsmith-defends-pulling-the-plug-on-retail-crime-group/

February 10, 2026

Parliament back to government business

Source: Radio New Zealand

VNP/ Daniela Maoate-Cox

After a stop-start beginning to the year, MPs are back in Wellington for a two-week sitting block. Most of the first sitting week was taken up by debate on the Prime Minister’s Statement. There are still four and a half hours of that debate remaining, but it is no longer the main event. The House is turning its attention to government business.

That business is a hodgepodge of bills at different stages of their legislative journey. Here are the bills from the first week, and then for this week.

From the first week: Legislation on legislation, and two completed bills

The Legislation Amendment Bill completed its second reading. It is an omnibus bill (amending multiple laws), that seeks to improve the accessibility of legislation – both finding it and understanding it. The bill has near-unanimous support, though the Green Party are against it, citing provisions that would expand the powers of revision bills.

Two bills completed their legislative journeys last week and have received Royal Assent from the Governor-General, meaning they are now law. The first was the Child Protection (Child Sex Offender Government Agency Registration) Amendment Act 2026, legislation aimed at improving the registry system so offenders can more easily comply with it.

The second was the Ngāti Hāua Claims Settlement Act 2026, which contains cultural and financial redress and an apology from the Crown for historical grievances against the iwi, who are based around the Taumarunui area.

New contractor law

The first bill debated this week was the Employment Relations Amendment Bill, continuing on from the previous sitting week. The bill introduces a salary threshold for personal grievance claims for unjustified dismissal and scraps the ’30-day rule’, which currently requires new employees to be covered by a collective employment agreement for their first 30 days. All three opposition parties are strongly opposed. The government hopes to complete all remaining stages of the bill this week.

That bill is one of many at the second reading stage this week. Second readings give MPs the opportunity not only to consider any changes recommended by the examining select committee, but also to reflect on what the public had to say during the submissions process.

Two brand new bills

The Armed Forces Discipline Legislation Amendment Bill should get a first debate this week. It makes a series of changes to the Defence Force’s internal justice system including establishing a minor disciplinary regime for low-level offences, along with new powers relating to searches on defence areas and drug testing of personnel. Bills of this nature are broadly uncontentious, though parties may seek technical amendments.

The other first reading this week is the Health and Safety at Work Amendment Bill, which seeks to realign workplace safety systems toward critical risks, focusing on the more dangerous end of risk, while reducing the bureaucratic and financial burden on businesses associated with complying with regulations.

RNZ’s The House, with insights into Parliament, legislation and issues, is made with funding from Parliament’s Office of the Clerk.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/10/parliament-back-to-government-business/

Category: Politics

Rugby league: Māori jersey ‘the pinnacle’ for Kennedy Cherrington

Vascular surgery now available in Northland

Government launches independent review into Reserve Bank’s Covid-19 response

Sheep farmers come to parliament to celebrate record year

Big gaps in awareness, treatment, support for ovarian cancer

Safety restrictions eased on four Tauranga homes after landslide

No detailed survey of landslide risks

Independent review of Covid-19 monetary policy

Palmerston North Hospital ED expansion underway

New Zealand’s corruption-free reputation takes hit for fourth-year in a row – survey

Corruption perception versus reality

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

Source: Government House

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

Equal employment opportunities

Policy Statement

Responsibilities

References

Relevant Legislation

Nearly 40,000 more building products approved

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

Minister to attend Munich Security Conference

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

Source: PSA

International Convention Centre a major win for tourism and hospitality

Ministry of Social Development set to cut security guards

‘The risk is real at any office’ – security guard

‘Confident’ we’ve responded to Ashburton – MSD

Morning Report live: Paul Goldsmith defends pulling the plug on retail crime group

Parliament back to government business

From the first week: Legislation on legislation, and two completed bills

New contractor law

Other second readings this week

Two brand new bills