The Green Party is calling on petrol companies to act quickly following the announcement of a two-week ceasefire that has caused the price of fuel to drop.
“Fuel companies moved quickly to increase their prices at the start of the conflict. With prices falling off the back of the ceasefire, they need to come down just as fast,” says Green Party Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick.
“New Zealanders watch petrol prices jump up overnight when global oil prices spike, but when they fall, it always seems to take weeks for that to show up at the pump.”
“Isn’t it interesting that while regular people watch their cost of living rise, major corporations never seem to feel the pinch?”
“The Government can ensure New Zealanders are not paying inflated prices while fuel companies pocket the difference.”
“The Commerce Commission should keep closely monitoring fuel margins, and they need to be ready to use their powers under the Fuel Industry Act if we don’t see retail prices coming down.”
“If companies are not passing on lower costs in a timely way, it confirms the market is not working for New Zealanders, and the government needs to step in.”
“This is why the Green Party proposed a windfall profits tax as part of our fossil fuel crisis relief package.
“While immediate cost of living pressure like this is immediately necessary, we’re also crystal clear that the more we continue to be reliant on the conscience of fossil fuel corporations, the more our country remains vulnerable.”
“The only real, sustainable solution is clean, green, abundant, home-grown renewable energy powering our country and our economy,” says Swarbrick.
8 April 2026, 2:30 pm – New Zealand’s response to the fossil fuel crisis must provide immediate relief to communities and local businesses, and enable a recovery that is equitable and sustainable, building our resilience for future shocks. Some practical measures to rebalance our tax system would make a significant contribution to such a response, says Tax Justice Aotearoa (TJA), and the Better Taxes for a Better Future Campaign (Better Taxes).
“Despite the potential of a ceasefire, there are tough times ahead for many of us already struggling with the cost of living. We need an effective immediate response that provides meaningful support to those worst affected, including small businesses, those on low incomes, Māori, Pacific and rural communities,” says TJA and Better Taxes spokesperson Glenn Barclay.
“But this crisis also provides us with an opportunity to make a meaningful shift towards a low carbon economy, and energy sovereignty. It is also an opportunity to rebuild a more resilient and productive economy that rewards hard work and shares our wealth more fairly.”
“The Government seems to want to respond within its self-imposed fiscal limits, but it is likely to have to do more. There is an urgent need to grow government revenue to fund both the immediate response and the longer-term recovery,” says Glenn Barclay. “This must be done in a way that protects the least well off, while ensuring that those who can afford it, and those who benefit from it, contribute the most.”
TJA and Better Taxes are calling for the Government to immediately adopt the following measures:
Introduce a windfall tax, targeting industries, companies or sectors that make unusually high profits during the crisis. This should apply to fuel companies, but also other sectors that may make windfall profits, such as the banks, supermarkets and energy companies. Revenue gathered via this mechanism should be earmarked for the immediate costs of the crisis response.
Require fuel companies to report profit margins to ensure the Government has sufficient information from fuel companies and other relevant sectors to monitor windfall profits. Information on the margins of each fuel company should be published on a regular basis (e.g. weekly) throughout the crisis.
A one off wealth tax. The crisis will hit those on low incomes much harder than the ultra wealthy. The Government should consider the one off application of a wealth tax on those who earn, or own assets, above a high threshold.
Target investment boost to green energy. The Government’s investment boost should be amended immediately to target private investment in green energy infrastructure that will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and make our economy more resilient (e.g. solar panels, company EVs).
Establish recovery corporate surcharges on sectors that are vulnerable to shocks, manage critical infrastructure and services, and/or lack competition (e.g. major banks, supermarket chains, electricity gentailers) to discourage excessive profits and generate revenue to build our resilience for future crises.
TJA and Better Taxes do not support any temporary reduction of the fuel excise. It would do nothing to reduce demand for fuel and the financial advantage would flow to big corporations, and the ultra-wealthy, as much as the least well off. The measures outlined above focus on delivering relief to those least able to weather the crisis, while supporting a transition to a more equitable, resilient and productive economy.
“A windfall tax on fossil fuel companies and transparency around their profit margins will discourage price gouging, and generate the revenue we need to provide immediate support to struggling whānau and local small and medium businesses,” says Glenn Barclay. “Other tax reform measures proposed will both generate much needed revenue, and enable us to take advantage of this moment to start to rebalance our tax system to support a more sustainable, fairer future for everyone in Aotearoa.”
Tax reform is the primary focus of TJA and Better Taxes, but increased borrowing is also a legitimate way to fund crisis response, particularly when accompanied by the recommended tax measures. Further, borrowing for immediate and medium term investment to build green energy sovereignty and resilience to future shocks is appropriate; a failure to make sufficient investments would be reckless.
ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on April 8, 2026.
Are we ever truly free to make decisions? New study tracks a universal process in the brain Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lauren Claire Fong, PhD Candidate in Cognitive Neuroscience, The University of Melbourne Imagine you’re in line at your favourite bakery, deciding whether to have a doughnut or a tart. You weigh them up, the doughnut wins, and you settle on that. By the time you’re at the
Is sitting with your legs crossed actually bad for you? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Pate, Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy, University of Technology Sydney Most of us were told off at some point for how we sat. “Don’t cross your legs, you’ll ruin your knees.” “You’ll get varicose veins.” “Sit properly.” “Sit up straight.” It belongs to that familiar pile of
‘Someone, everyone, stop them’ – and now Trump has pulled back from the brink COMMENTARY: By Marilyn Garson, of Sh’ma Koleinu – Alternative Jewish Voices Vietnam survived Nixon’s madman theory and the world survived the era of mutually assured destruction. Now we face the moment of two super-empowered shitheads. There is nothing nicer to call them. Who will stop two self-obsessed, very old men, already dedicated to tearing down
Spotted a jellyfish bloom recently? Here’s what may have triggered it Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa-ann Gershwin, Research Scientist in Marine Biology, University of Tasmania On a calm summer morning in southern Australia, the water can look deceptively clear, until you see thousands of gelatinous shapes washing ashore. In January, thousands of pink lion’s mane jellyfish washed into Port Phillip Bay, prompting
What’s the place of humans in a world redefined by AI? Steve Toltz’s new novel has some ideas Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Seth Robinson, Lecturer, Professional Communications, Public Humanities & Creative Writing, The University of Melbourne The conditions for Russell “Rusty” Wilson’s life were set with the roll of a dice. After his parents announced their divorce, Rusty and his twin sister, Bonnie, were split up in a move
Polls suggest Trump still shielding Labor as right-wing vote drops Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne In my March 30 article about Newspoll and two other polls, I said Donald Trump’s unpopularity was shielding Labor from a backlash over the fuel crisis. The
The government has boxed itself in over fuel saving strategies – but there is a way out Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Welch, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau While the government works to reassure New Zealanders that fuel stocks are stable, the numbers tell an uncomfortable story: the country has about 27 days of onshore cover for petrol and 17 days of
Swum into a jellyfish bloom recently? Here’s what may have triggered it Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lisa-ann Gershwin, Research Scientist in Marine Biology, University of Tasmania On a calm summer morning in southern Australia, the water can look deceptively clear, until you see thousands of gelatinous shapes washing ashore. In January, thousands of pink lion’s mane jellyfish washed into Port Phillip Bay, prompting
Keith Rankin Analysis – The Axis Nuclear Option in light of Japan 1945 Analysis by Keith Rankin, 8 April 2026. Based on my reading of the latest upscaling of US rhetoric, one of the military options being considered by the Israeli-American axis is the nuclear option. Refer Trump says a ‘whole civilization will die tonight’ if deal isn’t reached, One News, 8 April 2026. The possibility of Netanyahu
Should clinics prescribe medicinal cannabis that they also supply? We asked 5 experts Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Barbara Mintzes, Professor in Pharmaceutical Policy, School of Pharmacy and Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney You can have an online consultation, be prescribed medicinal cannabis, and have it sent directly to your home, in a seamless operation. This one-stop-shop certainly sounds convenient. But not everyone’s happy.
6 things Australia should do to tackle the energy crisis rather than just building bigger fuel reserves Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Newman, Professor of Sustainability, Curtin University The three-page fuel plan the Australian government released last week was very light on detail. So too was Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s address to the nation. This week, Energy Minister Chris Bowen moved to reassure Australians their fuel supply was
Australia’s biggest stock exchange needs tougher competition, or we all risk paying the price Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Helen Bird, Industry Fellow, Corporate Governance & Senior Lecturer, Swinburne Law School, Swinburne University of Technology Almost every Australian has a stake in how well the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) works. Most working adults have superannuation savings invested in companies listed on the ASX, which together are
Plagiarised research passed automated tests, and I detected it – but only because it copied my work Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Carolyn Heward, Senior lecturer, Clinical Psychology, James Cook University Earlier this year, I published a paper on the ethics of researching military populations. The core argument was straightforward: the standard rules researchers follow to protect participants – for example, informed consent and voluntary participation – don’t work
Slopaganda wars: how (and why) the US and Iran are flooding the zone with viral AI-generated noise Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Alfano, Associate Professor of Philosophy, Macquarie University In early March, a week after the first US-Israeli strikes on Iran, the White House posted a video of real American attacks mixed with clips from popular movies, television series, video games and anime. Iran and its sympathisers responded
Open letter to Peters: We fought fascism. Why are we silent now? OPEN LETTER: By Nureddin Abdurahman to NZ Foreign Minister Winston Peters Minister, You are about to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at a time of real global tension. Moments like this define countries. My great-grandfather fought fascism. In 1935, when fascist Italy invaded my country of birth, Ethiopia, then Abyssinia, Emperor Haile Selassie
Ben Roberts-Smith is accused of 5 war crime murder charges. How did we get here? Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul Taucher, Lecturer in History, Murdoch University After landing in Sydney airport following a flight from Brisbane, Australia’s most decorated living soldier, Ben Roberts-Smith, was arrested by Australian Federal Police. He’s faced court in New South Wales and been charged with five counts of the war crime
This isn’t journalism – Australia’s Bowen beat-up and the Iran war The Murdoch press runs cover for an illegal war by blaming the wrong man entirely, instead of informing the public of facts. Michael West Media reports. COMMENTARY: By Andrew Brown Here is a reliable indicator that you are being managed rather than informed. When the story gets complicated, when the real cause of your pain
It’s now easier to get antibiotics for UTIs. But here’s what to do if your symptoms don’t go away Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Iris Lim, Assistant Professor in Biomedical Science, Bond University You wake up with that familiar urgency to go to the toilet and burning when you pee – and no matter how many times you go, that urgency doesn’t let up. You know exactly what it is: a
Imagine you’re in line at your favourite bakery, deciding whether to have a doughnut or a tart. You weigh them up, the doughnut wins, and you settle on that.
By the time you’re at the front of the line, however, only tarts are left. So, you buy one.
These two decisions feel completely different. One involves deliberation based on our unique and personal preferences, while the other involves simply recognising and picking the only available option.
When we make free decisions, we recognise multiple options exist, weigh them up, and commit to one based on something internal: our preferences, values and goals.
Forced decisions are different. There’s only one possible outcome, and our job is simply to identify the option and take it.
Because free decisions feel so closely tied to who we are, neuroscientists have long assumed they rely on different processes in the brain compared to forced decisions. Some brain imaging studies support this, showing different patterns of neural activity distributed across the brain.
However, knowing where in the brain free choices happen tells us little about how they are formed – and whether this process is any different from forced decisions.
How does the brain form a decision?
Decades of research have shown that, to make decisions, our brains gradually gather evidence for each option over time.
Think of it like a judge evaluating the facts of a case. Once enough evidence has been accumulated in favour of one party, a verdict is reached. For some types of decisions, this happens very quickly (over hundreds of milliseconds), making it feel like the choice just popped into your head.
By measuring electrical brain activity, researchers have identified a brain signal that reflects this accumulation of evidence during simple decisions – such as judging whether a traffic light is red or green.
Like a loading bar building to 100%, the signal gradually rises to a particular level before a decision is made. Because the action of neurons in the brain is noisy, this decision-making process also occurs in a noisy fashion: rather than climbing steadily towards one option, the signal fluctuates back and forth between the alternatives.
This partly explains why we aren’t always consistent with our choices – even when our preferences are stable, some days we will go for the tart and others, the doughnut.
This signal has been identified for forced decisions with a clear correct answer. But what about choices that are open-ended – shaped not just by what’s in front of us, but by something internal like preferences or personal goals?
Tracing brain signals of decision formation
To answer this question, we recorded people’s brain activity while they chose between sets of coloured balloons. They viewed either two balloons of different colours to freely choose between, or a single balloon they were forced to pick.
They pressed a button the moment they made their choice, and we tracked how brain activity unfolded in the lead-up to that moment.
For both free and forced decisions, the brain activity unfolded in a very similar way. Like a loading bar, it climbed steadily to the same peak level just before a choice was made. When people decided quickly, the signal increased faster. When they took longer, it rose more slowly.
That’s exactly what you would expect if the brain were tracking and weighing up evidence over time, rather than simply reacting to a decision at the last moment.
Does this mean our free choices aren’t really free?
From this finding, one might assume the brain forms free and forced decisions in the same way, suggesting decision-making in the brain may be more automatic than it feels.
This echoes famous experiments by neuroscientist Benjamin Libet in the 1980s. He and colleagues found brain activity begins ramping up before people are even consciously aware of their intention to act – suggesting the brain has already begun deciding before the person consciously realises they’ve made a choice.
But while the process may be automatic, what the brain is accumulating tells a different story. The evidence it weighs up is drawn entirely from who you are – your preferences, your goals, your experiences. Two people may go through the same neural process and land on the same choice, and yet arrive there for completely different reasons.
So rather than asking whether our choices are truly free, perhaps the better question is what it really means for a choice to be yours. And the next time you find yourself in line at the bakery, know that your brain has already been quietly gathering evidence toward your baked good of choice, and that choice happens a little faster than you realise.
Most of us were told off at some point for how we sat.
“Don’t cross your legs, you’ll ruin your knees.”
“You’ll get varicose veins.”
“Sit properly.”
“Sit up straight.”
It belongs to that familiar pile of health warnings many of us heard as kids, alongside cracking your knuckles or sitting too close to the television. But is crossing your legs actually bad for you?
For most people, the answer is probably no.
There is little evidence sitting with your legs crossed damages your back, wears out your hips or knees, or causes varicose veins.
If anything, the bigger issue for many of us is staying in one position for too long, getting stiff or sore, and then assuming discomfort must mean something is wrong with the body.
Where did the idea come from?
Part of it probably grew out of older ideas about posture.
For a long time, sitting “properly” was treated as a sign of discipline, self-control and good character. Once that kind of thinking takes hold, it is easy for social rules to start sounding like medical facts.
It is also easy (and common) to confuse discomfort with damage. Sitting cross-legged for a while can make you feel stiff, compressed, or ready to move.
But it is usually a cue to change position, not a sign that you are quietly harming your body.
That fits with modern thinking on posture and pain, which has moved away from the idea there is one “perfect” posture.
What about your back?
Crossing your legs is often lumped into the category of “bad posture”, as if it twists the spine into trouble.
But research on posture and back pain has not found one ideal sitting position that protects everyone, or one everyday sitting posture that reliably causes harm.
In one study, physiotherapists from different countries were asked to choose the “best sitting posture”. Their answers varied widely. The researchers concluded that beliefs about ideal sitting posture are shaped by tradition and professional culture as well as evidence.
Posture is still relevant, but your back is strong and adaptable. It is built to tolerate a wide range of positions.
Usually, the bigger problem is being stuck in any one posture for too long, whether that’s cross-legged, bolt upright, or slumped over a laptop.
If crossing your legs feels comfortable, there is little reason to treat it as dangerous.cottonbro studio/Pexels
What about hips and knees?
Another common claim is that crossing your legs will “wear out” your hips or knees.
Again, there is little evidence that this is true.
Your hips and knees cope with much larger forces when you walk up stairs, rise from a chair, run, jump, or carry shopping.
Sitting cross-legged can change joint angles for a short time, but that is a long way from showing it causes arthritis or lasting joint damage.
Studies looking specifically at cross-legged sitting and long-term joint harm are limited, so the evidence is not perfect.
But the evidence we have does not support the old warning.
When clinical guidelines talk about keeping hips and knees healthy, they focus on things such as physical activity, muscle strength, healthy body weight, and managing overall joint load.
They do not focus on avoiding one ordinary sitting habit.
So if crossing your legs feels comfortable, there is little reason to treat it as dangerous.
If it starts to feel awkward or stiff, uncross them.
Does sitting with crossed legs cause varicose veins?
No.
Varicose veins happen when valves inside the veins do not work as well as they should, which can let blood pool and veins enlarge.
Risk is linked more strongly to factors such as age, family history, pregnancy, obesity and some work patterns, including long periods of standing.
Crossing your legs may briefly change blood flow while you are in that position. But that is not the same as causing varicose veins.
The evidence we have does not support crossed-leg sitting as a cause of varicose veins.
Are there times when it does matter?
Sometimes, yes, but usually for specific clinical reasons and often only for a short time.
After some hip replacements, people have traditionally been told to avoid crossing their legs while tissues heal.
But even here, newer research suggests some of these precautions may be more cautious than necessary for many patients, and removing them did not increase early dislocation risk in one trial.
There are also situations where a clinician might suggest avoiding a position for comfort, or because it irritates a sensitive area for a while. That is very different from saying the position is broadly harmful for everyone.
And most of us know the temporary numbness or pins and needles that can come after sitting awkwardly for too long. That usually settles quickly once you move. Again, that is a prompt to change position, not proof of damage.
So what matters?
Movement variety matters more than posture perfection.
The body tends to do well with options. Sit cross-legged if that feels comfortable. Then uncross them. Shift your weight. Lean back. Stand up. Go for a walk.
The healthiest sitting position is often the one you do not hold for the next hour.
Move more, vary your position, and trust that your body is probably a lot less fragile than you were led to believe.
COMMENTARY:By Marilyn Garson, of Sh’ma Koleinu – Alternative Jewish Voices
Vietnam survived Nixon’s madman theory and the world survived the era of mutually assured destruction. Now we face the moment of two super-empowered shitheads. There is nothing nicer to call them.
Who will stop two self-obsessed, very old men, already dedicated to tearing down humanity? Today Trump openly declares his intention to destroy a civilisation. They are apparently only able to see war personally, Netanyahu as the climax of 40 years of dreaming, and Trump as his arbitrary prerogative.
In lockstep they destroyed Gaza’s homes, places of learning and culture, health and modernity. They murdered civilians with abandon and drew pictures of capitalist castles on the beach — and still they failed, just as their over-armed predecessors have failed from Vietnam to Afghanistan.
People still live, in great need of our action.
The scorched-earth vision of Trump and Netanyahu rolls onward. Now in Iran and again in Lebanon, they make war on civilian homes and infrastructure. They destroy families and livelihoods, places of beauty and culture, the bridges that connect us, the industries that rebuild and the energy that lights the darkness.
They desecrate all of our religions. The list of their crimes grows daily.
Presidential communique on social media.
These two evil despots are content to erode the world’s supplies of power, fertiliser, manufacturing components. They are oblivious to the lives they imperil in Iran, Lebanon and Palestine — and countless other people who they will kill around the world by hunger and hardship.
Anything to rule, even over a landscape of bones and dust. They will fail but they must not be allowed to play this out.
We are beyond disgust. We are witnessing the end of an order indeed: America’s empire is flailing in its death throes. How many people will Trump take down with it?
Weighed down with dread, we have no words but these: someone, everyone, stop them!
Republished fromSh’ma Koleinu — Alternative Jewish Voices.
Trump may have backed down for now, but he’s shown how unhinged he is by threatening the death of a “whole civilization.”
I’m heading back to DC to try and get answers for the American people. Congress needs to return to the Capitol immediately and vote to end this war. https://t.co/vZLXb0anhq
Police are investigating two assaults believed to have occurred in Sydenham and are seeking information from the public as part of ongoing enquiries.
On Wednesday 18 March at around 10:15pm, Police were notified of a stabbing at Bradford Park.
The victim was transported to hospital for treatment and was released shortly after.
Enquiries to date indicate a second assault occurred earlier that evening on Colombo Street, just south of Fisher Avenue, at around 9:30pm.
Police believe the two incidents are linked.
Police are working to identify the victim of the Colombo Street incident and would like to speak with them, as they may have information that could assist our investigation.
Additionally, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the Bradford Park or Colombo Street areas between 9:00pm and 10:15pm on Wednesday 18 March.
This includes anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity or who has relevant CCTV or dashcam footage.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Police via 105, either by phone or online at police.govt.nz/use-105, selecting “Update Report.”
Please reference file number 260319/6021.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
Midlife women focus more on alcohol’s immediate health impacts than longer-term risks, a new study shows.
Women manage the immediate health impacts of alcohol, but pay less attention to long-term risks such as cancer, according to new research out of Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.
Dr Kate Kersey, a research fellow in the Centre for Addiction Research, interviewed 50 New Zealand women aged 35 to 60, both individually and in friendship groups, to explore how they understand and manage their drinking. See Psychology and Health: https://doi.org/10.1080/08870446.2026.2650785
Overall, 29 women (58 percent) drank at least twice a week, and 25 women (50 percent) typically drank three or more drinks on each occasion.
“There was a strong sense of expert knowledge in how participants talked about what alcohol does to the body,” says Kersey. “They spoke frequently about its negative effects on sleep quality, energy levels and weight.
“Interestingly, they did not talk much about long-term health effects such as heart disease or cancer. However, consistent with our other research, some participants said that if they were to develop cancer, they would feel deeply guilty, worrying that alcohol might have contributed.”
Kersey says these understandings reflect our current social context, where people are expected to take individual responsibility for successful lives and good health.
“If you are expected to be a ‘good’, productive citizen – you need to have the energy to perform well at work and stay fit and healthy.
The study also analysed women’s answers through a gendered lens. Today’s ‘empowered’ midlife women are expected to put effort into being a good mother and career women, into looking after themselves and others, and into ‘looking good’.
This was evident in how women in this study often framed drinking-related harms as something that could be managed through knowledge, careful monitoring and self-discipline – for example by tracking consumption through apps, investing in their health, and maintaining a slim body.
“They described doing a lot of exercise, with a strong sense that this was compensating for the effects of alcohol. However, we know that exercise does not always counteract alcohol’s harms, particularly its carcinogenic properties,” Kersey says.
The research focused primarily on middle-class Pākehā women, and Kersey notes that further work is needed with different communities and demographics.
Within this sample, however, most participants believed that they were ‘responsible’ about their drinking – a term Kersey sees as highly flexible and individualised.
“Everybody has a different idea of what being ‘responsible’ means when it comes to drinking,” she says. “For some people, that can still involve drinking quite large amounts – half a bottle of wine a night, or even a bottle.
“And if they are still doing their lives ‘right’ – working, parenting, exercising – they are less worried about their consumption.”
Kersey describes this as drinking within an ‘alcohol-genic environment’, where responsibility is placed on individuals to manage their drinking while alcohol remains widely available and heavily promoted.
“The industry pushes the framing of ‘drinking responsibly’, as does the government, because alcohol is a prized economic activity in our society.”
She argues that policy changes are needed like those that successfully reduced smoking-related harm: higher pricing, reduced availability, and strong regulation of marketing.
Kersey also emphasises the need for gender-responsive alcohol policy.
“One of the worst developments was alcohol being sold in supermarkets where the majority of shoppers are women, and where it’s seen like any other grocery item,” she says. “But alcohol is not a food product – it’s a psychoactive substance that can cause significant harm.”
Alcohol companies also increasingly target women through marketing that links drinking with health and self-care (relaxation, pleasure, social connection). Drinks labelled as low-sugar or low-carb also target women’s desire to maintain slim bodies.
Overall, the study shows that women’s drinking practices do not exist in a neutral environment.
“They are socially shaped, deeply gendered, and strongly influenced by powerful commercial interests,” Kersey says.
“If we want to reduce alcohol-related harm, we need to move beyond individual responsibility and address the wider systems that normalise New Zealand’s drinking culture.”
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is common, yet there is little support for carers, something a researcher at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland hopes to improve.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is common in Aotearoa New Zealand, yet there is little support for individuals and whānau affected by it – something Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland is keen to change.
Dr Joanna Ting Wai Chu, a senior research fellow in social and community health, has received $1.4 million over three years to run a gold‑standard trial of a parenting intervention aimed at supporting caregivers and people with FASD.
“I am thrilled to receive the HRC Health Delivery funding for this trial because I feel a sense of social responsibility to carers who have been advocating for better support for many years now.”
The Ministry of Health estimates that three to five percent of the population may have been exposed to alcohol before birth, meaning it is likely that 1,800 to 3,000 babies are born each year with FASD.
For Chu, finding out more about the scale of the problem and what can help feels like a social responsibility. “We have such a huge alcohol‑drinking culture in New Zealand, but when you come into the space of foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, the amount of blame and the stigma attached is actually quite upsetting.”
According to data from the University of Auckland’s Growing Up in New Zealand study, around half of pregnancies are unplanned, Chu says.
“If you look at our drinking culture, and the fact we often don’t find out we’re pregnant until we’re six or seven weeks or, even 12 weeks for some, by then you probably have drunk some alcohol.”
Yet, even though it is easy to accidentally drink during pregnancy, there is still shame and stigma associated with FASD, Chu says.
FASD is a lifelong disability that affects brain function and development, creating significant challenges for individuals, their families and society.
International research estimates that ten to 36 percent of people in youth-justice facilities have FASD.
Chu plans to co‑design a randomised controlled trial of a parenting intervention currently available only on an ad hoc basis, usually when a community organisation can fund it.
Chu developed the funding application with the FASD Care Action Network (FASD‑CAN), a nonprofit that supports caregivers impacted by FASD. They will now work together to design the trial to ensure it is bicultural, measures the most important outcomes and is delivered safely and respectfully.
“We want to make sure that the programme is going to work for the community, rather than us as researchers deciding everything. One of the issues with parenting programmes is they often works in the controlled setting, but when you roll them out into the community, the impact or the uptake is often not very high.
“And that’s because often what we can control for in research doesn’t necessarily mean it applies in the community.”
The aim is to ensure the programme meets community needs and, in the long run, for it to be funded by government as a key parenting programme to support carers.
“There is currently very little support available for parents and carers,” Chu says.
The hope is that parents and carers will learn about FASD, how it differs from other spectrum disorders and strategies to respond appropriately.
With better diagnosis and targeted support, Chu hopes carers will feel better equipped to support those living with this common disabling condition.
Dunedin Southern Motorway, Burnside, has reopened following an incident this morning and Police are now asking the public for information.
At around 10.40am, Police responded to reports that a digger had partially come off the back of a truck and was blocking multiple lanes.
Dunedin Southern Motorway was closed in both directions, between the Main South Road on-ramp and Caversham Valley Road, while the digger was uplifted, and it re-opened around 1.40pm.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing, and Police are appealing for information from the public to assist in those enquiries.
Anyone who has dashcam footage or witnessed the incident is urged to contact Police through 105 and reference event number P066019039.
Two men are due in court on Wednesday after separate attempts to steal fuel as police say they are seeing an increase in diesel thefts.
Officers were called about 4am today to a Christchurch address after a person reported seeing someone trying to siphon petrol from their vehicle in Sockburn.
“Officers have immediately attended and made enquiries in the area, before stopping a vehicle,” police said.
“A search of the vehicle saw it contained five 60 litre containers, a battery-operated siphoning pump, and a small amount of methamphetamine.”
A 31-year-old man was due to appear in the Christchurch District Court today on charges of unlawfully interfering with a motor vehicle, possessing goods capable of facilitating dishonesty offending, and possession of methamphetamine.
Meanwhile, in Hamilton, police were called about 4.20am by a person watching a man steal diesel from their worksite in Peacocke via a live camera.
The man drove off in a hatchback south of the city and was intercepted by police and arrested.
“Located in his vehicle were three containers of diesel, as well as several tools, drugs, and knives,” police said.
The 35-year-old man was expected to appear in the Hamilton District Court today.
Assistant Commissioner Tusha Penny said police were continuing to monitor fuel thefts and had started to see a rise in diesel thefts.
“These incidents are an example of where we are reliant on sharp-eyed members of the public to call police immediately when they see any suspicious activity,” she said.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
The Reserve Bank has left the official cash rate unchanged at 2.25 percent, as expected.
The bank’s monetary policy committee says the Middle East conflict has increased inflation and affected economic growth.
But it says interest rates will not be changed while there is so much uncertainty and too little data.
It says it’s focusing on whether any inflation spike is temporary, and its policy will be to get inflation back in the target zone over the medium term.
More to come…
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
8 April 2026 – The Monetary Policy Committee today agreed to hold the OCR at 2.25 percent. Since the February Monetary Policy Statement, events in the Middle East have materially altered the outlook and the balance of risks for inflation and economic growth in New Zealand. In the near term, inflation is expected to increase and the economic recovery to weaken. The Committee is vigilant to any generalised inflationary pressure and stands ready to act to return inflation to its medium-term target.
The Middle East conflict has disrupted global supply chains, leading to significantly higher prices for oil and refined petroleum products. As a result, near-term inflation is increasing and economic growth is weakening in many countries. Global financial markets have been volatile and market interest rates have increased.
In New Zealand, the extent of the near-term increase in headline inflation will depend on how the conflict in the Middle East evolves and the magnitude and duration of the disruption to global supply chains and energy markets.
Medium-term inflationary pressure will depend on the extent to which higher costs influence price- and wage-setting behaviour by firms and workers in the economy. If medium-term inflation expectations increase, then inflation is likely to become more persistent. However, weak demand and spare productive capacity in the economy should constrain the degree to which higher costs can be passed on.
The current economic situation is different to 2022 when COVID-19 and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine disrupted global supply chains and increased energy prices. Back then, demand was growing strongly, adding to inflation pressure.
The Committee’s decision to hold the OCR balances the potential benefits of responding pre-emptively to the risk of higher medium-term inflation against the cost of unnecessarily stifling the economic recovery.
The Monetary Policy Committee is focused on ensuring that inflation returns to the 2-percent target midpoint over the medium term. This requires core inflation and wage growth to remain contained and medium- and long-term inflation expectations to remain around 2 percent. If these conditions are not met, decisive and timely increases in the OCR would be required.
HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2026 – Lee Kum Kee Sauce (“Lee Kum Kee”), the global leader in Asian sauces and condiments, organised a three-week culinary programme for eight young Bhutanese chefs from the De-suung Skilling Programme (DSP) from 1-19 March 2026. Supported by the Chinese Culinary Institute (CCI) in Hong Kong, the programme empowers youth career development through vocational training and international exposure.
Dasho Tashi Wangyal, an Eminent Member of the National Council of Bhutan and a member of the De-suung Skilling Programme (DSP) Steering Committee (front row, sixth from left), Dasho Zimpon Wom Sonam Thinley, Deputy Chamberlain to His Majesty the King, the Executive Director, Skilling Programme, DSP and a member of the DSP Steering Committee (front row, seventh from left), James HP Yap, Principal of Hotel and Tourism Institute, Chinese Culinary Institute, and International Culinary Institute (front row, eighth from left), and Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee Sauce (front row, fifth from left), celebrate with the young Bhutanese chefs upon completion of their culinary exchange
The cohort of eight Desuup chefs, currently working in hotels and DSP initiatives, participated in an intensive, hands-on upskilling programme. Participants completed 10 days of professional training at CCI, with focused modules on the Eight Major Cuisines of China, selected Western cooking techniques, and signature Cantonese dishes. Additional sessions covered Hong Kong local specialties and pastry techniques as well as food presentation and plating — all led by instructors from CCI, International Culinary Institute (ICI), Star Chef Management School and Lee Kum Kee.
Beyond classroom learning and cooking, the young chefs explored Hong Kong’s food culture and heritage. Activities included visits to local eateries such as a traditional Cha Chaan Teng, and guided culinary tours across the city. The group also travelled to Xinhui and Zhuhai in mainland China to learn more about sauce production and Guangdong’s culinary culture. The experiences further inspired their culinary perspectives and creativity.
The young chefs also showcased their skills at an exclusive VIP lunch and the Bhutan Flavour Fair, attended by DSP officials and Lee Kum Kee Sauce representatives.
Young chefs are inspired through systematic hands-on learning and exploration, discovering local delicacies, and experiencing Hong Kong’s heritage and contemporary landscape
Young chefs showcase their skills at an exclusive VIP lunch and a Bhutan Flavour Fair
Dasho Tashi Wangyal,an Eminent Member of the National Council of Bhutananda member of the DSP Steering Committee, said, “Our young chefs are receiving valuable exposure at the Chinese Culinary Institute through immersion in professional Asian cuisine, modern culinary techniques and global kitchen standards. I would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Lee Kum Kee for the vision, partnership and commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary professionals.”
Dasho Zimpon Wom Sonam Thinley, Deputy Chamberlain to His Majesty the King, the Executive Director, Skilling Programme, DSP and a member of the DSP Steering Committee, said, “I’m proud of the Desuup chefs’ aspirations, and I hope they will build on the prestige of Lee Kum Kee and the Chinese Culinary Institute – their mentors – to further develop their careers in the culinary world.”
James HP Yap, Principal of Hotel and Tourism Institute, Chinese Culinary Institute, and International Culinary Institute, said, “Hong Kong is a vital platform that brings together global culinary cultures. Through this exchange, I’m confident the young Bhutanese chefs have not only deepened their understanding of the essence of Chinese and Western culinary flavours, but also have acquired valuable cooking techniques, plating skills, as well as developed a deeper appreciation of the richness of Chinese culinary culture.”
Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee Sauce, said, “At Lee Kum Kee, we believe in the power of culinary culture to connect people and create lasting opportunities. It has been a joy to see the passion and growth of these chefs throughout this programme. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with CCI and DSP to nurture the next generation of culinary talent and strengthen the ties between our communities through the art of food.”
Since 2025, Lee Kum Kee has engaged in a strategic partnership with DSP to support culinary training in Bhutan, bringing international standards, signature flavours and professional expertise into DSP’s training programmes.
Lee Kum Kee is dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Through its Global Youth Culinary Immersion initiative, the company has provided culinary education, scholarships and exchange opportunities for aspiring young chefs in China, Malaysia, South Korea, Vietnam, UK, Canada and USA.
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #LKK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
People with very weak immune systems, including those recovering from an allogenic haematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT), will be better protected from a serious viral infection following Pharmac’s decision to fund letermovir.
From 1 May 2026, Pharmac will fund letermovir, a medicine that helps prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in people who are severely immunosuppressed.
CMV is a very common virus and is usually harmless. Most people are exposed to it in childhood, where it stays in the body for life without causing problems. However, it can cause serious illness in people whose immune systems are not working properly, particularly those who have had an allo-HSCT.
“For people recovering from an allogenic haematopoietic stem cell transplant, CMV infection can be very serious and often means long hospital stays and intensive treatment,” says Pharmac’s Acting Director of Pharmaceutical Funding, Claire Pouwels.
“Letermovir works by preventing CMV from reactivating, rather than waiting until someone becomes unwell and needs more intensive care.”
From 1 May 2026, letermovir will be funded for:
people who have had an allogenic haematopoietic stem cell transplant, and
a small number of other people with severe immunosuppression who cannot use other funded antiviral medicines.
The medicine will be funded for use in hospitals and through community pharmacies. Around 90 people are expected to benefit in the first full year of funding.
“Preventing CMV infection can reduce the risk of serious complications and help improve allogenic haematopoietic stem cell transplant outcomes,” says Pouwels. “It can also reduce the need for other antiviral treatments that require long hospital stays and close monitoring.”
“By helping to prevent CMV infection, letermovir could help people leave hospital sooner and spend more time at home with their whānau,” says Pouwels.
Pharmac’s decision follows public consultation, where strong support was received from clinicians, pharmacists, patient groups, and professional bodies.
“We heard clearly that access to letermovir could make a meaningful difference for people who are already very unwell,” says Pouwels.
Pharmac is also looking into whether an injectable formulation of letermovir can be made available in New Zealand in the future. In the meantime, funding of the tablet form will begin so people can benefit as soon as possible.
The Pacific Four will be Whitney Hansen’s first tournament in charge of the Black Ferns.Photosport
Black Ferns co-captain Ruahei Demant says the side has a fresh level of excitement under new head coach Whitney Hansen as they prepare for the Pacific Four tournament in America.
Hansen was appointed to the position after predecessor Allan Bunting stood down after the Black Ferns finished third in last year’s Rugby World Cup.
The tournament begins this weekend, with defending champions New Zealand playing the United States in Sacramento (11am start Sunday NZT). The other teams are Canada and Australia, who clash on Sunday afternoon.
Demant, who is fresh from a stint with the Bristol Bears in the United Kingdom’s Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) competition, described the mood in the Black Ferns camp as “very positive and very happy”.
“We have got a mixture of players that have stayed on from last year’s World Cup as well as an injection of youth,” she told RNZ’s First Up.
“We have a new head coach, which has brought in a new level of excitement, refreshing ideas while staying true to a lot of the values that this team has held dearly since its inception.”
Demant said it helped that Hansen knew the Black Ferns environment and players – and also had a teaching background.
“Whitney is no stranger to this team. She worked alongside us as an intern coach during the 2022 World Cup in Aotearoa, so she is very familiar to a lot of us,” she said.
“She has a really good teaching styles, she understands that not one teaching style suits all and she is really dedicated to obviously leading this team forward, enhancing our performances while still staying true to who we are and what has underpinned this team throughout time.”
While it’s a new reign, there is a bit of unfinished business at this tournament for Demant and those team-mates who played in the World Cup in England.
Ruahei Demant is looking forward to the Pacific Four tournament.www.photosport.nz
New Zealand were defending champions after their Cup victory in 2022, but failed to make the final last year after being [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/573634/how-world-media-reacted-to-blacks-ferns-world-cup-defeat outplayed by Canada in their semi-final.
England comfortably beat the Canadians in the final.
The Black Ferns will play Canada during the second weekend of Pacific Four.
“For many of us who were there it definitely acts as motivation. Sometimes in sport, you may play a game and lose to the opposition and you don’t really know when they are going to play them again.
“We get that opportunity next weekend to play Canada and so for a lot of us who were there it does act as motivation and another opportunity to enhance the jersey.”
Demant gained plenty of insight into the strength of English rugby during her time in Bristol. She and NZ team-mates Maia Roos, Tanya Kalounivale, Liana Mikaele-Tu’uwho and Georgia Ponsonby have travelled from the British competition to the US for the Pacific Four. They are among eight Kiwis playing in the PWR for the first time.
Demant said she found different playing and coaching styles in the UK interesting.
“There is a lot more variety because there are a lot more teams, something we don’t get at home yet.”
But she said Super Rugby Aupiki also had strengths and she wouldn’t say one competition was better than the other.
However, she found the level of fan support in the UK “crazy”.
“It probably helps also that the stadiums that a lot of the women’s teams play in are a lot smaller so you don’t have to fill out massive stadiums like Eden Park or the Cake Tin [Wellington stadium] every week and it feels a lot more intimate.
“I think they market women’s rugby really well in the UK, that is probably also due to the fact there are just more people who watch because of the bigger population to draw from.”
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Federated Farmers says farmers are experiencing fuel shortages, with some two to three weeks behind their normal fuel drops.
The organisation’s dairy chair and Canterbury sharemilker Karl Dean said fuel distributors have had the schedule of fuel allocations changed by importers – disrupting when farmers usually receive supply.
Most farmers – if they have got an on-farm tank – will have a system set up with their fuel supplier, to get filled up about once a month, Dean told Morning Report.
Dean said he was hearing from farmers daily that some were weeks behind usual deliveries.
“That is a big concern.”
He said he is urging fuel distributors and the government to prioritise agriculture as an essential service for fuel supplies now.
“We’ve had instances where farmers have run out of water for stock water pumps … that can’t happen.
“And I think the government, personally, needs to start to make a stand and say ‘hey, there is shortages of fuel’, in terms of the distribution network in New Zealand, and that needs to be categorised and played through properly.”
Co-owner of Hawke’s Bay dry stock farm Caroline Kirk said in late March her fuel drop was 10 days’ late and her reticulating drinking water system for livestock ran on fuel. Distributor Fern Energy said at the time it was doing its best to prioritise fuel deliveries based on need.
Dean said he hoped the fuel drops would return to normal as soon as possible.
He also said dairy farmers will be facing high diesel costs in the next couple of months due to stock movements between farms.
“We’ve got large trucking events that happen normally around the 1st of May for young stock moving in and off farms, and then 1st of June for herds moving and going to Wintering etc.”
A big concern was the flow-on effect of fuel and transport price rises for next season, as companies will be ordering supplies now for spring and next summer, he said.
When asked about farmers facing fuel shortages, Finance Minister Nicola Willis said supplies continued to be available, but price rises were extremely concerning.
She said the government had published a fuel response plan which would call for “voluntary demand restraint” if there were disruptions in deliveries or orders.
RNZ has approached MBIE for comment.
Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
On a calm summer morning in southern Australia, the water can look deceptively clear, until you see thousands of gelatinous shapes washing ashore.
In January, thousands of pink lion’s mane jellyfish washed into Port Phillip Bay, prompting beach warnings and startling swimmers more accustomed to cold water than the shock of stinging tentacles.
The same month, unusually high numbers of moon jellyfish were reported across southern Tasmanian coastal waters.
If you’re swimming in southern seas and have an encounter with a jellyfish swarm, you may well wonder what led to it. Could a cold spike, a marine heatwave or other changes in the ocean have triggered the bloom?
Are these blooms normal?
Many Australians associate jellyfish with the dangerous stings of northern species such as box jellyfish and Irukandji. But jellyfish aren’t just confined to tropical waters. In southern Australia, species such as lions mane and moon jellyfish are more common, particularly this summer.
In fact, hundreds of species of jellyfish are found in Australian waters, ranging in size from a mere speck to nearly two metres wide. And it’s natural for jellyfish numbers to boom and bust. When conditions are favourable, they can bloom into superabundance. Their millions of mouths can strip every particle of food out of the water, from fish fry to fish eggs and plankton.
That said, there is a clear pattern visible globally. More disturbed marine ecosystems tend to experience larger and more persistent jellyfish blooms.
Jellyfish blooms can act as a visible indicator that something is out of balance in the ocean. For example, when oceans are overfished, polluted or suffer from other environmental degradation, this can trigger highly visible jellyfish blooms. Overfishing can remove predators and competitors, leaving jellyfish to thrive unchecked.
Coastal impacts from urbanisation add further pressure. When rivers dump huge amounts of nitrogen and other nutrients from farms and cities into the seas, this and other forms of pollution can favour jellyfish growth. For oceans affected by several of these issues, jellyfish blooms often grow larger and last longer.
Researchers have found jellyfish are becoming more abundant in many areas. Warmer waters favour jellyfish. But it is too simplistic to say that all jellyfish are are taking over everywhere. Different species respond to different conditions in their ecosystems.
As climate change heats up the oceans, many species are struggling to cope. Warmer water holds less dissolved oxygen than cooler water, making life harder for species with higher oxygen demands, like crustaceans and fish.
Jellyfish are highly responsive to their environment. Warmer water gives their metabolism a boost, so longer warm periods or sudden marine heatwaves can create conditions highly favourable for rapid population growth. They grow faster, eat more, reproduce faster and live longer.
Surprisingly, cold matters too. Researchers have found moon jellyfish can also get a boost from cold water. In their polyp stage, young moon jellies attach themselves to rocks or coral. When a cold period is followed by a return to normal temperatures, the polyps get a cue to begin budding off larval jellyfish (a process known as strobilation).
Interestingly, the size of the temperature change – not just whether it is warm or cool – can make jellyfish blooms more intense.
For example, in the eastern Bering Sea off Alaska and in the waters off Peru, long-term monitoring has shown jellyfish numbers closely tracked warming and cooling periods associated with the El Niño climate driver.
Ocean warming can be a threat multiplier, amplifying pressures on marine ecosystems, creating conditions in which jellyfish populations can expand dramatically.
Less oxygen is bad for fish but jellies don’t care
Heavy breathing marine species such as fish struggle to survive in warmer, less oxygenated water. Here, too, jellyfish do well. They can even survive periods in oxygen-free habitats, as they can store oxygen in their jelly.
As I put it in my TEDx Talk, when marine ecosystems face pressures on several fronts, jellyfish are often advantaged – while the predators normally keeping them in check suffer.
While life-threatening box jellyfish and Irukandji stings have occurred in subtropical and even temperate Australian waters, both types are commoner in the tropics. For this reason, the Australian Resuscitation Council recommends different treatments for stung swimmers in southern and northern waters.
In the tropics, the priority is saving a life. Douse the sting liberally with vinegar to inactivate stinging cells, seek medical care if appropriate and be prepared to commence CPR if necessary.
Outside the tropics, the priority is pain relief. Rinse the sting well with seawater to wash away undischarged stinging cells, then use hot water or ice for the pain. In either case, seek immediate medical care if breathing difficulties or other systemic symptoms develop.
Blooms are beautiful
Many people who marvel at the beauty of jellyfish in an aquarium might shy away from them in the sea. But while it can feel daunting to think about being stung, jellyfish blooms in southern waters more often present a splendid opportunity to see an unusual natural phenomenon.
At April’s investiture ceremonies, Dame Coral Shaw will be acknowledged for her considerable service to the judiciary and public service.
Other recipients will include Olympian Rod Dixon, former All Black Eroni Clarke, Māori broadcaster and educator Waihoroi Hoterene (Waihoroi Shortland), New Zealand international cricketer Sophie Devine, and broadcaster Leighton Smith.
Five recipients will receive their New Zealand Bravery Medal in a special ceremony on Saturday 11 April.
The Governor-General The Rt Hon Dame Cindy Kiro will host 12 investiture ceremonies at Government House Auckland:Thursday 9 April(10am and 3pm),Friday 10 April(10am and 3pm),Saturday 11 April(10am and 3pm),Tuesday 14 April(10am and 3pm),Wednesday 15 April(10am and 3pm) andThursday 16 April(10am and 3pm).
List of recipients
Thursday 9 April 10:00am
Mr Neil Bateup, of Ohinewai, CNZM for services to the rural sector
Mr David Corner, of Wellington, ONZM for services to people with intellectual and learning disabilities
Mrs Chrissie Cowan, of Hastings, ONZM for services to Māori, particularly blind and low vision people
Mr Gary Lane, of Auckland, ONZM for services to conservation and philanthropy
Ms Janet Lilo, of Auckland, MNZM for services to the arts
Dr Stephen Neville, of Alexandra Headland, Queensland, Australia, MNZM for services to gerontology research and seniors
Mr Leighton Smith, of Auckland, MNZM for services to broadcasting
Mr Gary Whittle, of Auckland, MNZM for services to rugby league
Thursday 9 April 3:00pm
Mr Greg Barclay, of Auckland, CNZM for services to sports governance
Mr Rod Dixon, of Upper Moutere, ONZM for services to athletics
Mr Te Warihi Hetaraka, of Whangārei, ONZM for services to Māori and art
Ms Karen Ritchie (née Campbell) of Pōkeno, ONZM for services to people with HIV/AIDS and Rainbow communities
Mr Terence Maskell, of Auckland, MNZM for services to choral music
Mr John Roughan, of Auckland, MNZM for services to journalism and the community
Ms Arihia Stirling, of Auckland, MNZM for services to education and Māori
Mrs Ena Polima, of Auckland, KSM for services to the Niuean community
Friday 10 April 10:00am
Dame Coral Shaw, of Te Awamutu, DNZM for services to public service, the judiciary and the community
Mr Lloyd Downing, of Morrinsville, ONZM for services to agriculture and governance
Ms Paula Werohia-Lloyd, of Tauranga, ONZM for services to Māori and business
Ms Gaye Poole, of Hamilton, MNZM for services to the performing arts and education
Mr Ravinder Powar, of Hamilton, MNZM for services to ethnic communities
Mrs Myra Caldwell, of Te Aroha, KSM for services to the community and music
Mr Ngahau Davis and Mrs Debbie Davis, KSM of Moerewa, for services to the community
Friday 10 April 3:00pm
Mr Don Mackinnon, of Auckland, CNZM for services to sports governance
Distinguished Professor Gaven Martin, CNZM of Albany, for services to mathematics and education
Mr Brian Davies, of Palmerston North, ONZM for services to motorsport
Mrs Jane Eynon-Richards, of Rotorua, MNZM for services to the community
Mr Jade Farrar, of Auckland, MNZM for services to people with disabilities and the Pacific community
Dr Audrey Tan, MNZM for services to mathematics education
Mr Gordon Myer, of Auckland, KSM for services to the community
Mrs Norma-Jean Van De Rheede, of Melbourne, Australia, KSM for services to the community
Saturday 11 April 10:00am
Professor Tom Roa, of Hamilton, CNZM for services to Māori language and education
Distinguished Professor Emeritus Paul Spoonley, of Auckland, ONZM for services to sociology
Mrs Jenny Nahu, of Rotorua, MNZM for services to rugby league
Mrs Sandy Pasley, of Auckland, MNZM for services to education
Ms Helena Tuteao, of Hamilton, MNZM for services to people with disabilities and Māori
Mrs Elizabeth Whiting, of Auckland, MNZM for services to costume design
Mr Peter Maunder of Paeroa, KSM for services to athletics
Mrs Sylvia Maunder of Paeroa, KSM for services to athletics
Saturday 11 April 3:00pm
Sergeant Richard Bracey, of Auckland, NZBM for an act of bravery
Ms Susan Burke, of Queensland, Australia, NZBM for an act of bravery
Mr Hayden Cornwell, of Hamilton, NZBM for an act of bravery
Constable Fritzi Faber, of Auckland, NZBM for an act of bravery
Sergeant Harry Ghodke, of Hastings, NZBM for an act of bravery
Tuesday 14 April 10:00am
Mr Tony Quinn, of Cromwell, CNZM for services to motorsport and the community
Mrs Kerry Nickels, of Auckland, KSO for services to the Red Cross
Mr James Miller, of Auckland, ONZM for services to corporate governance
Mr Jack Hobbs, of Pukekohe, MNZM for services to horticulture
Mrs Matafetu Smith, of Auckland, MNZM for services to Pacific art
Mr JR Burgess, of Mosgiel, KSM for services to the community
Mrs Marin Burgess, of Auckland, KSM for services to heritage preservation and education
Mr William Fuller, of Russell, KSM for services to the community
Tuesday 14 April 3:00pm
Dr Bruce Hayward, of Auckland, CNZM for services to geology, particularly micropaleontology
Professor Dr Jens Mueller, of Tauranga, ONZM for services to education
Mr Tenby Powell, of Tauranga, ONZM for services to business, governance and humanitarian aid
Mr Kevin Burgess, of Cambridge, MNZM for services to governance, the community and sport
Mr John Robinson, of Auckland, MNZM for services to orienteering
Mrs Valerie Robinson, of Auckland, MNZM for services to orienteering
Wednesday 15 April 10:00am
Professor Charl de Villiers, of Auckland, CNZM for services to accountancy
Ms Shirley Hooper, of Papamoa, ONZM for services to netball and artistic swimming
Mrs Lyn Lloyd, of Auckland, ONZM for services to renal nutrition
Mr David Jurlina, of Kaitaia, KSM for services to rugby and the community
Mrs Nada Jurlina, of Kaitaia, KSM for services to rugby and the community
Mrs Gurpreet Kaur, of Auckland, KSM for services to the Indian community
Mrs Barbara Knowles, of Tuakau, KSM for services to the community and to Members of Parliament
Wednesday 15 April 3:00pm
Mr Tony Falkenstein, of Auckland, CNZM for services to philanthropy and business education
Ms Sophie Devine, of Christchurch, ONZM for services to cricket
Mrs Cecilia Robinson, of Auckland, ONZM for services to business and women
Ms Donna Chisholm, of Auckland, MNZM for services to journalism
Dr Caroline Oliver, of Wanaka, MNZM for services to cancer research and the community
Ms Aere Anne Nicholas, of Auckland, KSM for services to the community
Mr Harjinder Singh Basiala, of Papakura, KSM for services to the Punjabi community
Thursday 16 April 10:00am
Distinguished Professor Paul Moughan, of Auckland, CNZM for services to science
Mr Joe Harawira, of Whakatāne, KSO for services to Māori education, arts and conservation
Ms Deborah Espiner, of Auckland, ONZM for services to people with disabilities and education
Mr Waihoroi Hoterene of Kerikeri, ONZM for services to Māori and Māori language education
Mr Eroni Clarke, of Auckland, MNZM for services to the Pacific community and rugby
Mr Laurie Mills, of Auckland, KSM for services to theatre
Dr Leonie Sinclair, of Rotorua, KSM for services to health
Thursday 16 April 3:00pm
Mrs Fran Hartnett, of Auckland, ONZM for services to people with disabilities
Professor Patria Hume, of Auckland, ONZM for services to sports science and injury prevention
Dr Arif Saeid, of Auckland, ONZM for services to refugees and youth
Mrs Sue Hobbs, of Auckland, MNZM for services to people with disabilities
Dr Fahima Saeid, of Auckland, MNZM for services to refugees
Ms Marion Ellis, of Ōrewa, KSM for services to hockey
Mrs Jocelyn Grantham, of Auckland, KSM for services to education and the community
This list of recipients is correct on Wednesday 8 April, and may be subject to change.
Rising global fuel prices are cutting household affordability across New Zealand, but new analysis shows families in the Pacific are being hit up to six times harder.
Fuel prices in New Zealand have increased by around 20 percent in recent weeks. This is reducing household purchasing power by an estimated 1 to 2 percent once flow-on costs are high fuel are factored in.
Across the Pacific, the situation is far more severe.
Fuel prices have risen between 20 and 40 percent in many Pacific nations, with some sectors experiencing even higher increases. Because Pacific households spend a larger share of their income on fuel and transport, the impact on affordability is significantly greater.
ChildFund New Zealand estimates the real loss in household purchasing power across the Pacific sits between 2.5 and 12 percent.
“Fuel is a base cost. When it rises, everything rises with it,” said Josie Pagani, CEO of ChildFund New Zealand.
“In New Zealand, families feel it at the pump. In the Pacific, families feel it on the table. Food, transport, and even access to clean water become harder to afford.”
Many families in the Pacific rely on imported goods and diesel-powered systems for transport and electricity, meaning fuel price shocks move quickly into the cost of essentials.
For families already living on tight budgets, even small increases in daily costs force difficult choices.
“This is where the impact really hurts. When food prices rise and transport becomes unaffordable, children are the first to feel it. Meals are skipped. School attendance drops. Access to safe water becomes less certain, increasing the chance of sickness or worse.”
“The two-week ceasefire is a welcome reprieve for children and families across the region. But this crisis has highlighted the urgent need for more long-term and enduring energy solutions in the Pacific,” says Josie Pagani.
