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Want a dog-friendly workplace? Here’s what you’ll need to get right

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Giuseppe Carabetta, Associate Professor of Workplace and Business Law, UTS Business School, University of Technology Sydney

Dogs are increasingly appearing in Australian workplaces. From “take your dog to work” days to permanent pet-friendly offices, the trend is often framed as an easy win for staff morale.

Evidence suggests having dogs at work can reduce stress and improve social connection. But only if some important risks are managed properly, such as allergies, phobias, hygiene concerns and general safety.

There’s another important distinction, reflected in the law: while pets are optional, assistance dogs are usually not.

So, how can employers design dog-friendly workplaces if they want to, and what does the law say about animals at work?

Barking up the right tree

There is strong evidence to suggest dogs benefit their owners’ physical health in general. Large studies have linked dog ownership to increased physical activity, reduced cardiovascular risk and lower all-cause mortality.

A major meta-analysis of more than 3.8 million people found dog owners had a 24% lower risk of early death from any cause and a 31% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, likely driven by walking and stress reduction.

Owning a dog may have health benefits. Humphrey M/Unsplash

These findings were confirmed in follow-up analyses which accounted for other variables among dog owners, such as a younger age, better physical fitness and higher socioeconomic status.

Researchers still found a 17% reduction in dying early from any cause.

When it comes to mental health, outcomes are less clear. Reviews show mixed effects, depending on population, pet type and measurement.

A recent meta-analysis which draws the results of earlier studies found modest gains in physical activity, but small and inconsistent effects on depression and anxiety. That nuance matters at work.

Dogs in the workplace

Research suggests dogs can improve workplace wellbeing – but only under the right conditions. Studies report lower perceived stress, improved mood and stronger social connection.

Emerging, high-quality evidence suggests workplace pets can positively affect stress and social interaction. But it also identifies negative outcomes where risks are poorly managed.

What are those risks? An occupational health review by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned dogs can introduce new hazards, including:

  • allergies
  • phobias
  • hygiene issues
  • bites.

Dog-friendly policies for the office therefore raise safety and inclusion issues that need to be considered alongside any lifestyle perks.

Dogs may improve workplace wellbeing – but only under the right conditions. www.kaboompics.com/Pexels

What the law says

In Australia, ordinary pets have no automatic right to enter a workplace. Employers may allow pets as a matter of policy, provided they meet their obligations under work health and safety laws.

Government guidance recommends consulting staff, undertaking a risk assessment, establishing clear rules and ensuring a suitable premises.

However, while pets are optional, assistance dogs are usually not. The law reflects this balancing act.

Under Australia’s Disability Discrimination Act, it is unlawful to treat a person unfavourably because they use an assistance animal, subject to some narrow and clearly defined exceptions.

Assistance dogs are legally recognised as disability aids, not pets, and may support both physical and psychological disabilities.

Importantly, the law requires assistance animals to be trained to an appropriate standard, meaning:

  1. trained to an appropriate standard to assist a person with a disability
  2. trained to meet standards of hygiene and behaviour appropriate for an animal in a public place.

Employers may ask for evidence that a dog is an assistance animal and meets appropriate standards of hygiene and behaviour. But the law does not require a single national certificate or ID card.

Lead author, Giuseppe Carabetta, with his assistance dog Monty, on a visit to Parliament House. Author provided (no reuse)

An employer can only refuse to allow an assistance dog access in very narrow circumstances, such as where exclusion is reasonably necessary to protect health or safety and risks cannot be managed through reasonable adjustments.

What this looks like in Australian workplaces

Work health and safety laws in all states and territories now include a positive duty to manage psychosocial hazards at work – such as stress, poor support and harmful workplace design.

This means employers cannot rely on blanket bans justified by vague “safety concerns”. They must identify hazards, consult workers and implement proportionate controls – whether dogs are excluded or allowed.

Some employers have formalised dog-friendly design. Amazon’s Sydney office, for example, runs a “Dogs at Work” program with a dedicated onsite dog area to manage safety and hygiene risks.

Others are a little more cautious. Tasmanian company RACT expanded a “Furry Friday” trial only after introducing rosters, limits per floor and consulting with staff.

Co-working spaces such as CreativeCubes.Co publish detailed pet policies, while explicitly carving out assistance animals to reflect discrimination law.

The bottom line

The science suggests dogs can support wellbeing – but only when workplaces are designed for them. Australian law mirrors that evidence-based approach.

As employers rethink wellbeing in a post-pandemic workplace, the real question is no longer “should dogs be allowed?”. Rather, it’s whether policies are lawful, evidence-based and inclusive.

– ref. Want a dog-friendly workplace? Here’s what you’ll need to get right – https://theconversation.com/want-a-dog-friendly-workplace-heres-what-youll-need-to-get-right-278401

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/06/want-a-dog-friendly-workplace-heres-what-youll-need-to-get-right-278401/

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How one local council helped 1,200 low-income residents finance solar and home energy upgrades

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paris Hadfield, Research Fellow, Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University

Most of Australia’s existing homes are old, uncomfortable, and expensive to run. Too many are energy inefficient, and rising electricity and gas prices are making things worse.

Mainstream programs are supporting home energy upgrades. But the transition isn’t happening quickly enough and risks leaving behind the households that could benefit most.

Innovative finance models could help. My new research shows how local initiatives can make solar and electrification more accessible.

Darebin City Council’s Solar Saver program

My research investigated a local government program in Melbourne that helped people get rooftop solar.

Running from 2014-2025, Darebin City Council’s Solar Saver program helped almost 1,200 low-income and vulnerable homeowners in the area get A$4.8 million worth of home energy upgrades.

Council paid the upfront cost of installing solar and, in later iterations of the program, reverse cycle air conditioners and hot water heat pumps.

Factoring in state government rebates, these costs were added to the homeowner’s property taxes as a “special rates charge”. The homeowner could then repay this money over ten years – interest-free.

Suppliers were selected through council tender to make the process easier for homeowners, while ensuring quality products and services including component and performance warranties. This provided certainty for residents, one of whom told me:

the council’s not going to get involved with some shonky person who’s going to come in and tell you: “Terribly sorry, we’ve got to double the price because you’ve got a nail in the wrong place on your roof” or something.

The scheme reduced financial risks and burdens for low-income homeowners.

By using council rates to repay the money, the loan is attached to the property itself rather than the homeowner.

This means any remaining debt is recouped if and when the house is sold, avoiding a situation where someone is paying a debt for solar on a house they no longer live in.

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Homeowners were advised not to participate if debt repayments were more than they’d save in energy bills. Aged and disability pensioners were identified as a priority group because they were more likely to be at home during the day to reap the benefits.

Trust and relationships

Darebin Solar Saver shows how critical trust and relationships are for enabling household uptake.

Interviews with households and council officers highlighted the importance of council as an intermediary that could offer tailored and impartial advice, broker quality products and services, and channel finance without commercial terms.

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Other electrification programs have shown how effective council rates notices are for household engagement.

Colleagues and I are now developing tools and resources based on these lessons to support the sector to design and deliver home energy upgrade programs.

Expanding beyond Darebin

For this model to be expanded to other local government areas, funding is needed.

Darebin City Council made a significant cash investment that other councils have struggled to replicate, even though households repay most of the costs.

Federal government could address this barrier through a national fund, while others see opportunities for commercial loans through environmental upgrade agreements (which is where councils work with banks to provide loans to households, and the loan is repaid via the resident’s rates).

Very few private renters accessed Darebin Solar Saver, highlighting a need for targeted finance, engagement, and regulation to encourage landlords to upgrade investment properties.

The Darebin Solar Saver program concluded in 2025 for a range of reasons. Council staff told me human resources and time are essential, with one noting:

We have to go through a fair amount of information to explain how solar works. We have to explain how the Solar Saver program works. Many residents struggle to actually understand or accept that you don’t have to pay anything up front, at all. That takes often several times in a conversation and written material just to prove that that’s the case.

Darebin City Council is now offering electrification rebates for a wider range of products, which are also much simpler for council to administer.

Finding alternative finance models

While over 30% of Australian households have rooftop solar, Australia needs 11 times more households to disconnect from gas each year if it’s to achieve its 2050 emissions reduction targets.

But getting off gas and getting solar panels is expensive. Studies in the US, Ireland, Norway, and among lower-income households in Victoria find cost concerns are the most common barrier to home energy upgrades.

For those with little to no available cash savings, partial subsidies and rebates are little help.

Discounted home energy upgrade loans still charge interest to be commercially viable. What’s more, many low-income homeowners may not have a high enough credit rating to get a loan from a bank. Buy Now Pay Later services typically pass on costs through the price of the solar system and late repayment fees. Interest-free loans for eligible households are no longer available from the Victorian government.

Inaccessibility is not just about cost. It’s also about a household’s ability and confidence to make decisions, especially as some solar and battery providers push bad deals.

All this means it is crucial we find more alternative finance models to help low-income households do energy upgrades.

As homes are increasingly exposed to worsening climate hazards like floods, bushfires, and cyclones, solving the finance problem will become more urgent.

– ref. How one local council helped 1,200 low-income residents finance solar and home energy upgrades – https://theconversation.com/how-one-local-council-helped-1-200-low-income-residents-finance-solar-and-home-energy-upgrades-278078

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/06/how-one-local-council-helped-1-200-low-income-residents-finance-solar-and-home-energy-upgrades-278078/

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Farmers are boosting their profits and production – with nature’s help

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jim Radford, Associate Professor, Ecology and Environment, La Trobe University

Farming is a vital industry, contributing an estimated A$100 billion to the Australian economy this year alone.

Nearly 60% of Australia is used for agriculture. The lion’s share of that land is used to graze livestock, such as cattle, sheep and, increasingly, goats.

However, our farming and environmental sectors have long been perceived to be at odds. This is because agriculture remains a major emitter of greenhouse gases. Another reason is it requires vast amounts of land to be cleared, often with devastating consequences for native wildlife and vegetation.

For many years now, governments and community organisations, such as local Landcare groups, have encouraged farmers to restore nature on their farms. This is one way to increase their “natural capital”, which refers to the sum of all natural resources that provide products and services of value to society. This includes the soil, air, water and all living organisms.

Some farmers have been keen to boost their natural capital. Others, however, see it as a waste of time or money.

But our world-first study shows maintaining and restoring nature on farms can actually increase farmers’ productivity and profits.

So how is this possible? And how can we encourage more farmers to invest in nature?

Why natural capital matters

Natural capital is more than a buzzword. For farmers, it’s a crucial part of running a productive and profitable business. And for the environment, natural capital serves as habitat for wildlife and a way to capture and store carbon.

Types of natural capital on farms include pastures used for grazing, remnant native vegetation and the soil beneath crops. These provide a range of ecosystem services. For example, planted shelterbelts, which are rows of trees and shrubs, help maintain soil moisture and protect livestock from wind.

It may seem intuitive that farms with more natural capital would be more productive and profitable than those with less. However, we don’t actually know if this is true. That’s because traditional accounting methods do not consider how natural capital may contribute to a farm’s productivity.

What we studied

In our world-first study, we investigated how the amount and quality of natural capital on a farm affects its economic performance.

Our study involved 114 livestock farms across the Australian states of New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania and Western Australia. We tracked their economic performance in the five-year period between 2017 and 2022. This included both drought and high-rainfall years.

To do this, we looked at three main metrics:

  • production efficiency, which is how well a farm turns inputs such as fertiliser and diesel into products such as meat and wool
  • profitability, or how much a farmer earns after paying all their expenses
  • financial resilience, which refers to how stable a farm’s income is, particularly in times of drought.

We also assessed the amount and condition of natural capital on each farm. This involved collecting data about the:

  • amount of tree cover and how it is distributed across the farm
  • types of pasture grasses present
  • cover of low-growing plants, dead or alive, which help prevent soil erosion
  • overall ecological condition, which relates to how much existing ecosystems have been modified.

Overall, we found livestock farms with higher levels of natural capital were up to 3% more productive than farms with the lowest levels of natural capital. This is significant given Australia’s agricultural productivity has, on average, grown by just 0.2% each year over the past decade.

Better still, our research suggests farms with more natural capital are more financially resilient. This means there is less year-to-year variation in how much those farms earn, even when they experience periods of drought.

Why does this work?

There are several ways natural capital can improve a farm’s economic performance. Here are three.

1. Increase its production efficiency

Our research suggests farms with healthier pastures, and with trees and shelterbelts scattered throughout their paddocks, are generally more efficient. In the case of a sheep farm, this would mean fewer inputs are required to produce the same amount of meat or wool. Sheep on farms with more natural capital would also be healthier and more likely to survive extreme weather events due to having more shade and shelter.

2. Reduce its costs

The price of inputs, such as pesticides and fertilisers, can be both high and volatile. But by grazing on native grasses and conserving and planting native vegetation, farmers can reduce their need for these inputs. This is because native vegetation helps suppress weeds but also provides habitat for beneficial insects, bats and birds, all of which eat pest insects.

3. Make its income more stable

Our research shows farms with more natural capital are better protected from adverse weather events, such as drought or intense rains. For example, a sheep farmer who maintains patches of native vegetation is less likely to lose lambs in wet, windy conditions. So by protecting their livestock, pastures and crops, nature restoration projects can also give farmers a more secure income.

However, we don’t want to turn farms into national parks. There is a point at which too much natural capital starts to reduce farm productivity and food security. This occurs when further reducing the amount of land used for agriculture outweighs the benefits of having more natural capital. Instead, we need to find the sweet spot where restoring natural capital boosts, instead of limits, a farm’s production.

Overall, our research challenges the perception that profitable farming and biodiversity can’t go hand in hand. Our research shows investing in natural capital actually stacks up financially. And the more we embrace this view the better off our economy, and environment, will be.

– ref. Farmers are boosting their profits and production – with nature’s help – https://theconversation.com/farmers-are-boosting-their-profits-and-production-with-natures-help-271750

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/06/farmers-are-boosting-their-profits-and-production-with-natures-help-271750/

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Horowhenua mayor says street racing events are being used to intimidate

Source: Radio New Zealand

Horowhenua mayor Bernie Wanden. RNZ / Angus Dreaver

The mayor of Horowhenua says street racing events are being staged to intimidate the public, and those involved will face consequences.

On Sunday, four people were arrested after 200 cars gathered in Manawatu and Horowhenua.

It comes as the government progresses a law change which will expand police powers and increase maximum fines.

Mayor Bernie Wanden said he was confident the law change would make a difference.

“There will be consequences for this stuff,” he said.

Police arrested four people, siezed two vehicles and issued dozens of infringement notices after busting a boy racer event in Manawatū. NZ Police

Police also ordered seven vehicles off the road and nine were impounded.

Manawatu area commander Matenga Gray said police had received intelligence to suggest that there was going to be a meeting of boy racers.

“So becoming aware of that, we launched an operation to deal with it.”

Police from Wellington, Manawatu and Whanganui prevented the drivers from forming one big group, he said, and that made all the difference.

“I think that led to the success of the operation. Historically we have been sort of caught off guard a couple of times but not anymore, we are well prepared for these, we know our tactics, we know what’s required and we respond appropriately.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/06/horowhenua-mayor-says-street-racing-events-are-being-used-to-intimidate/

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Ambulances operating as usual, despite diesel issues – for now

Source: Radio New Zealand

Paramedics have been making sure the service’s 629 ambulances are topped up at the end of each shift whenever fuel drops below three-quarters of a tank. RNZ/Calvin Samuel

Hato Hone St John says it is still able to operate as usual, despite some ambulance crews reporting occasional problems getting diesel.

Paramedics have been making sure the service’s 629 ambulances are topped up at the end of each shift whenever fuel drops below three-quarters of a tank.

Some petrol stations have been running out of fuel as the conflict in the Middle East drives up prices.

Deputy chief executive Cameron Brill said they should fill up in main centres rather than rely on provincial petrol stations.

He said the government’s National Fuel Plan ensured St John services would have prioritised access to fuel supplies if things become tight.

Paramedics were keeping ambulance fuel tanks topped up in case there were localised fuel shortages.

Shortages were flagged with management.

Last month, the service reported a 30 percent rise in fuel costs.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/06/ambulances-operating-as-usual-despite-diesel-issues-for-now/

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Choosing a school holiday program can be tricky. Here’s how to identify a good one

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alyssa Milton, Associate Professor, Principal Research Fellow, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney

When the bell rings at the end of each term, there is a happy buzz as kids leave school for the break. But for many parents, the start of the holidays brings a different feeling entirely: how are they going to keep their children engaged for two weeks and sometimes more?

One way is through school holiday programs, which take children for all or most of the work day. These can range from general programs on school sites – which might have sporting and craft activities for children as well as general play. It might also involve excursions to places such as zoos or adventure parks.

Other programs might be run by other operators, and focus on soccer, basketball, coding, art or drama.

How can you tell if your child’s program is good quality?

Access is tricky

First, we need to acknowledge that holiday program places fill quickly and costs add up. Some programs cost more than $100 a day, per child. While some are eligible for government subsidies, many are not.

Our analysis has highlighted how limited access can be for Australian families. Holiday programs where parents can claim the government’s Child Care Subsidy only have capacity for 18% of Australian primary school children. That’s around 413,000 places for more than 2.3 million primary school children (aged around 5–12).

Access is even more constrained outside major cities, with some regional communities having only one provider, or none at all.

Why holiday programs matter

School holidays provide an important break from routine for children.

But we also know many parents have to work during the holiday and kids can spend too much time being sedentary and on screens.

School holiday programs provide opportunities for children to spend time with peers and supportive adults, participate in engaging activities, and maintain routines during the break.

Our reviews show structured holiday programs can help maintain children’s physical activity and boost their social and emotional wellbeing.

More than ‘child minding’

Outside School Hours Care – also called after-school care or “afters” – is a major provider of holiday care for Australian children.

Quality holiday programs run by these providers offer more than just supervision.

Our research, co-designed with young people, shows effective programs provide opportunities for children to explore interests, build friendships, develop confidence and participate in meaningful activities.

Research also suggests children benefit when programs include choice, allowing them to contribute ideas, try new activities and connect with peers.

What you should look for

While availability and cost often shape decisions for families, there are several indicators that can help parents assess quality. Here are some questions to ask.

  • Is it varied? If they offer a mix of creative, physical, social and exploratory activities, they are more likely to keep children interested and motivated.

  • Is there choice for kids? High-quality programs allow children some say in activities or how they participate, supporting confidence and enjoyment.

  • Does it encourage social connections? A good program will be able to talk about how it supports friendships and inclusion.

  • Is there movement and outdoor time? Some programs may specifically be for coding, crochet, art or other naturally sedentary activities.

  • Is there clear communication with families? This includes information about costs, schedules, staffing and supports.

If the holiday program is offered through an Outside School Hours Care, it is worthwhile looking for services assessed under the National Quality Standard. This is the system that rates other forms of childcare and will be able to tell you how the service is performing. These ratings consider factors such as programming, safety, staffing and relationships with children.

Possible warning signs

While every program differs, some features may signal lower quality. They include:

  • heavy reliance on passive entertainment, such as extended screen time

  • unclear information about staffing or supervision

  • unexpected additional costs

  • a focus on containing the children rather than engagement and relationships.

How can access improve?

Our research has called for improving access to affordable, high-quality holiday programs.

This could include increasing the number of government-supported places, expanding programs in regional and under-served communities and supporting providers to recruit and retain qualified staff. The federal government also needs to ensure the Child Care Subsidy reflects the real cost of delivering high-quality programs, so fees are not simply passed on to families.

Without these changes, many children will continue to miss out on the kinds of experiences that support wellbeing, confidence and connection during school holidays.

– ref. Choosing a school holiday program can be tricky. Here’s how to identify a good one – https://theconversation.com/choosing-a-school-holiday-program-can-be-tricky-heres-how-to-identify-a-good-one-279763

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/06/choosing-a-school-holiday-program-can-be-tricky-heres-how-to-identify-a-good-one-279763/

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Basketball: NZ win the men’s Asia Cup for the first time

Source: Radio New Zealand

picture id=”4JQLYGA_r8woov2hwfsvnavwskc6_jfif” crop=”16×10″ layout=”full”]New Zealand and Australia, winners of the 2026 3X3 Asia Cup in Singapore, on April 5th 2026 [Source: fiba3x3.basketball].

The New Zealand men’s 3×3 basketball team have won the Asia Cup for the first time.

Te Tuhi Lewis, Christian Martin, Aidan Tonge and Josh Book were dominant on the final day of the tournament in Singapore, completing a 21-16 win over defending champions Australia in the quarter-finals then beating Japan by the same score in the semi-finals, and Korea in the final 21-15.

New Zealand finished the tournament unbeaten, having also beaten India and Qatar in pool play.

Lewis, named tournament MVP, was outstanding in New Zealand’s five matches, averaging 8.2 points per game with his player value percentage at 45 percent.

Martin also contributed strongly, averaging five points per game.

Australia claimed the women’s title, with New Zealand’s team of Azure Anderson, Ella Fotu, Eva Langton and Sharne Robat finishing eighth in the 12-team competition.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/06/basketball-nz-win-the-mens-asia-cup-for-the-first-time/

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What to do with leftover hot cross buns and Easter eggs

Source: Radio New Zealand

Leftover hot cross buns and chocolate eggs might sound oxymoronic – can you really have too many? – but given rising prices, you don’t want to waste them.

If the Easter Bunny or some other benign force has gifted you more goodies than your whānau can handle and you’ve already offloaded some to the neighbours, here’s how to use the rest.

Hot cross buns can be frozen successfully – or repurposed in several different ways.

Seriously Low Carb / Unsplash

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/06/what-to-do-with-leftover-hot-cross-buns-and-easter-eggs/

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NRL: What we learnt from Warriors loss to Cronulla Sharks

Source: Radio New Zealand

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad is helped off the field against Cronulla Sharks. Photosport

Analysis: Back-to-back defeats have set NZ Warriors squarely on the back foot and their three-game winning start to the 2026 NRL season seems a long time ago now.

Their 36-22 defeat to Cronulla Sharks featured many of the worrying signs of the previous week’s lapse against Wests Tigers, when they fell off the top of the competition table.

The worst may be yet to come, with a formidable and wounded adversary looming, and worrying injuries beginning to stack up.

Warriors coach Andrew Webster has little time to restore the confidence that marked their play only a few weeks ago now.

Here are some key takeaways from the loss to Cronulla.

Best player

You can’t look past a wing that scores a hat-trick of tries and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has corner-flag heroics down to a fine art.

With the arrival of former tryscoring champion Alofiana Khan-Pereira at Mt Smart, many anticipated he would quickly replace the incumbent, who bore the brunt of the Warriors’ right-edge defensive lapses last season.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak scores one of three tries against Cronulla Sharks. www.photosport.nz / Izhar Khan

This was vintage DWZ on attack and that’s not something you simply cast aside.

Unsurprisingly, Watene-Zelezniak emerged as his team’s highest fantasy scorer (69 points), leading them in running metres (188) – 90 of them in one desperate dash – and linebreaks (2).

Hooker Wayde Egan was in the wars and had to return to the field late, when understudy Sam Healey left for a concussion check, eventually leading the Warriors’ tackle count (39).

Second-rower Leka Halasima completed another 80 minutes, finishing the contest at centre, when Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad left injured, and made 34 tackles.

Lock Erin Clark was rewarded for his industry with a late penalty try, while front-rower Jackson Ford’s 65 post-contact metres will keep him near the top of this category across the league.

Key moment

Trailling 24-10 at halftime, the Warriors needed to score next and achieved this, as Watene-Zelezniak completed his hattrick and halfback Tanah Boyd converted from the sideline.

Momentum had seemingly swung their way, but they handed it straight back, when Halasima tried to play the ball quickly, but Roger Tuivasa-Sheck was too slow arriving at dummy half.

Cronulla pounced on the ball and stormed upfield, and while the Warriors held out their initial thrust, they made another mistake as they tried to break out of their half, which allowed second-rower Teig Wilton to score.

Since he announced his impending departure to Wakefield Trinity, Tuivasa-Sheck has delivered a couple of shockers and compounded this mistake with two more that led to Siosifa Talakai’s game-clinching try.

Siosifa Talakai celebrates his try against the Warriors. Photosport

He spilled a high kick in his own 20 and, as the Sharks arrived in numbers, was brushed aside in a one-on-one tackle by Talakai on his way to the tryline.

Best try

Really hate judging this category in a loss like this, but perhaps nothing sums up the rocks-and-diamonds nature of the Warriors defence than Watene-Zelezniak’s second try – a 90-metre intercept effort from near his own line.

Defensively, the Sharks seemed intent on exploiting a rightside Warriors defence that has continued to struggle for cohesion.

Watene-Zelezniak is repeatedly caught having to cover two converging attackers, but guessed correctly to score a runaway that would surely have been another Sharks try, if he had got it wrong.

Even then, he was almost run down by Sharks fullback Will Kennedy and needed another spectacular dive at the corner to finish off his opportunism.

Injuries

Ironically, the injuries suffered in this game may actually return the Warriors to a line-up resembling the one that cruised through the opening three games of the season.

Webster may have second-guessed himself, when he installed Nicoll-Klokstad at centre against the Tigers. He liked the idea of Taine Tuaupiki at fullback, but he has not shown enough in his two outings to justify the move.

If Nicoll-Klokstad can’t clear concussion protocols, Tuaupiki may get another life, but Ali Leiataua should return to the midfield, after he scored a winning intercept try for the reserves in NSW Cup this weekend.

In his second game back from knee recovery, five-eighth Luke Metcalf also left with a hamstring strain, opening the door for Chanel Harris-Tavita’s comeback.

Luke Metcalf faces time on the sideline, after a hamstring injury against the Sharks. Photosport

Playing outside Boyd, Metcalf has not fired and that has undoubtedly thrown the Warriors’ timing off. His injury may spare Webster a painful decision.

Egan was hobbling before halftime, but returned after the break, while Healey passed his head injury assessment, so both seem clear for next week.

Of course, co-captain Mitch Barnett will again be missing, with a broken thumb.

Cronulla Sharks

The Sharks broke a three-game home losing streak against the Warriors and are now approaching the form everyone expected from a team that fell one game short of the grand final over the past two seasons.

They host Sydney Roosters in Perth next Saturday and have a chance to consolidate their sport in the top four.

What the result means

The Warriors slide down the competition table from second entering the weekend to fourth (after Newcastle’s win over Canberra) and possibly further, depending on the Tigers v Parramatta Eels result on Monday.

Their +84 points differential has been slashed to +54, but remarkably, their 156 points scored is still second behind only Penrith Panthers.

After starting the season with three wins over highly rated opponents, the Warriors are now perilously close to suffering three straight losses, which would put them in a scramble for playoff spots early in the campaign.

The scariest part of that is their next opponents…

What’s next

Melbourne Storm have dominated the Warriors like no other NRL team, winning 70 percent of their previous meetings, including the last 17 encounters since 2015.

They have inflicted some horrible hidings over that period, including the historic 70-10 Anzac clash in 2022 and a couple of 50-point efforts.

Worst of all, the Storm are coming off three straight defeats of their own, including a 50-10 result against the Panthers this week.

You just know they are better than that and will be desperate to prove that against a vulnerable Warriors outfit in Melbourne.

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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/2026/04/06/nrl-what-we-learnt-from-warriors-loss-to-cronulla-sharks/

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Unearthing a 50-year-old box of iconic chocolates

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sarah Adams’ grandfather, baker and businessman Ernest Adams, is synonymous with the iconic Queen Anne Chocolate – and his influence ultimately drew her back into that world when she revived the chocolates in the 1990s.

Years of research into Queen Anne’s 1925 origins for a book led Adams to an extraordinary discovery: a 50-year-old box of chocolates, now proudly displayed at the company’s factory in Christchurch.

When she put out a call for old packaging to catalogue and document, a Christchurch woman named Sarah reached out. She had a box of Queen Anne chocolates that had been slowly sinking to the bottom of her chest freezer since the 1970s.

Removal of blooms had to be tested on samples before doing it on the real thing.

Supplied / Queen Anne Chocolates

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/06/unearthing-a-50-year-old-box-of-iconic-chocolates/

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PM Edition: Top 10 Business Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for April 6, 2026 – Full Text

PM Edition: Here are the top 10 business articles on LiveNews.co.nz for April 6, 2026 – Full Text

Money tips from ‘Māori Millionaire’ founder: How to get out of survival mode

April 5, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Te Kahukura Boynton says the challenges might be real, but when we can get a good focus on the problems we need to tackle, we can become good at solutions. Supplied by Te Kahukura Boynton

Te Kahukura Boynton of Māori Millionaire is on a mission to bridge the wealth gap by shining a light on how to make better money decisions more clearly – even when times are tough.

The entrepreneur, speaker, podcaster, financial influencer, and author of Māori Millionaire: A beginner’s Guide to Building Better Money Habits talked with Stacey Morrison about using her platform to help people build better financial literacy, and how people can get started.

“My saying recently is that you can’t financial-literacy your way out of survival mode”, Boynton says.

“Traditional money advice, it doesn’t address the root causes for why people actually make the money decisions that they make – over 80 percent of the time we’re actually making emotional decisions when it comes to money.”

“What I see a lot in the financial industry is that people are told to just behave better, to have more willpower, to be more disciplined, but it doesn’t actually address why people make those money decisions.”

It can be hard to see a way forward that fits, or to even face looking at the problem, she says.

“I love that financial literacy is becoming more normalised to talk about and I see a lot of wins in this industry, but what I would love to see more of is trauma-informed financial literacy – actually addressing why do people make those decisions. Even if we’re not talking about colonisation at an individual level, things like physical abuse or emotional abuse, these things can leave abandonment wounds, or things that make you have a different relationship with money.”

“Back when I didn’t have much money, I would way rather spend a small amount of money to buy something that’s going to give me a quick dopamine fix, as opposed to putting that small amount of money towards something that’s going to help me long term. This is a direct result of not only colonisation, but even trauma that people have experienced, even if you’re not indigenous or if you’re not Māori.”

Recognising some of the things making money an uphill battle

Recognising money pitfalls is easier if we can identify the things at play influencing us, so we can make clearer decisions, Boynton says.

Penguin

“People want quick ways to give themselves a sense of relief, and especially in times of economic difficulties people are craving that – and so it’s much easier to buy something small to make an emotional money decision, as opposed to doing something that’s going to serve your long term self.

“In 2026 everything is designed to give us quick hits of dopamine – we have more people spending time on their phone. I read something recently that said I think it was like 80 percent of people play on their phones before they fall asleep and first thing in the morning. These are habits we haven’t seen before.

“So everything is designed to teach us that we need quick fixes of dopamine – we’re thinking short term more these days.”

Boynton says before she turned her financial situation she was making bad habits as a way of responding to stresses.

“I didn’t know how to manage my emotions. I was previously a drug addict, so I’d spend a lot of money on drugs if anything happened, or I would end up at the McDonald’s drive-through or I’d be at Kmart, because those were the only ways I knew to cope with my emotions. So telling me to just spend my money better to save more wasn’t actually going to help, because I didn’t have any tools to cope with my emotions other than to spend money to get relief.

“Especially for Māori, Pasifika, or lower income earners, they can carry a lot of shame when the only conversation is ‘spend less, invest more’, and it’s a very simple way of looking at it and it doesn’t address the inequities we see at a systems level. So my goal is that people are actually having a wider conversation, a deeper level conversation about why people make their money decisions, not just telling people to behave better.”

What does help?

RNZ / Quin Tauetau

The first step Boynton recommends is to start a money diary to build self-awareness about what prompts those decisions to buy things. It’s a simple tool, and she still finds it useful now.

“I would note down: What am I buying? How much am I spending? How does it make me feel? and Is this a good investment in myself? … colour coded green or red if it was yes or no … Does this have a positive return on my life or a negative return on my life?

“A lot of people, because they’re carrying shame they’ll do this exercise and then they’ll start having a lot of negative self talk: ‘I shouldn’t have done that’, ‘Why do I always do this?’ ‘I always have these bad habits’. But what I’d encourage people to do is just take note. We live in a very fast world, we have payWave, everything just moves so quickly. And we’ve become disconnected from our tinana – from our bodies.

“So what I’d encourage people to do is pause a little bit, so when you go to the supermarket, when you spend money, don’t just carry on as you would do, but just notice the feelings in your body. Do you feel a little bit of guilt when you buy things you know you probably shouldn’t? Do you feel excitement when you buy the designer things that you want, or you buy new clothes? Just notice the sensations in your body. What are you feeling?”

Then once a week she checks over her experiences from the week – what she calls her Sunday money reset, which helps her see positive next steps she can take.

“At the end of every week … I go back and I think ‘Okay, I notice that on Monday I went to the dairy, and I bought dah da dah da dah – and I actually didn’t need to do that if I just did my groceries on Sunday’.

“So if you have this reflective exercise once per week, when you’re starting to build these better money habits you can go: ‘Ok, I notice that I did that and I don’t really want to do that any more. What systems can I implement so that I don’t do this moving forward?’

“Then I would go … so this week I’m going to do all my meal prepping on Sunday, and I’m going to buy enough food for the week, so that I avoid going to the dairy. Or whatever it is for each person, everyone has different money habits.”

“A lot of people don’t realise how much money they actually spend or where it’s actually going, because …we live in a very fast world. It’s designed to go quickly, so just slowing down a little bit helps you to understand your money habits. Then when you have more self awareness, you can actually choose different habits.”

Unsplash/ Vitaly Gariev

Different challenges for different people

Each person has their own underlying tensions at play in how they might use money, Boynton says.

Some have a scarcity mindset, where they may have lots of feelings of guilt or panic associated with money. Some people are avoidant, feeling overwhelmed by money matters and finding it difficult to face or to start taking steps. We can experience different combinations of these at different times, Boynton says, as she has.

But what we should ideally want to build is what she calls a secure attachment approach to money:

“Where I’m at now and where most people would love to be is feeling secure when it comes to money. So I have a plan with my finances, I’m regularly checking in, I know my numbers, I know what’s coming in, what’s going out. I feel very secure, I feel very safe. I’ve got my safety net there if anything should happen, I’ve got insurance. I just feel on top of my money … and what it gives you is it gives you some breathing space.

“Back when I was worried all the time it felt like I was almost drowning all the time with all of it, and I couldn’t even get up out from the water to have a look and go ‘where are we headed now’.

“But now that I feel more secure I have more energy to focus on my business, I have more energy to focus on my hauora, my health. And that’s where most people want to get, is having a secure relationship with money.”

What about getting through the truly tight times?

123RF

Boynton says she recognises that for many households times are really tough at the moment with the cost of living crisis.

And that stress can be when we tend to fall back into our most chaotic money patterns, she says: “It’s completely understandable if you’re choosing between buying gas for the car or putting kai on the table.”

“But what I would do is be very mindful about your thoughts and what you’re putting your energy into.”

Spending a lot of time and energy absorbed in big picture things we can’t control and social media can sap our resources, she says.

“What I like to say is ‘I’m not the cost of living gods, I can’t control this – but what I can control is what I’m focusing on’. I started focusing on my business and what are the things within my control.”

One down to earth tip is focusing on our health during lean times: “When you are healthier you’re able to make better decisions,” she says.

“So making sure I’m not missing my morning walk or my morning exercise – which is free, so that I have a bit more energy … so that I just have a lot more mental head space to go ‘okay, what more can I focus on today’.”

Then you can put some thinking time into the challenges, having a look at your money situation and the pressures.

“You can go, okay my costs have increased $50 a week as a result of all of this, or $100 as a result of all of this. How can I bring in an extra $50 or $100 a week? And then you might go – actually, I could mow my neighbour’s lawns, or I could do this. Just coming up with random things …

“I like to do a mindmap. What is within my control, and what can I actually do about this? And when you start to think about solutions, your brain starts to come up with all of these cool ideas … and then you get to go through and …trial a few things. Not everything will work, but you can give it a crack and what that does is it builds your confidence.

“And – wow, I made $50 today. Wow, imagine if I made like $500 next week. You can get in that energy of ‘Cool, I can do something about this!’, and you can pull back your power.”

She also recommends not to keep reflexively looking at the progress of long-term investments like KiwiSaver or retirement plans regularly during times the market is chaotic, as it can create a sense of helplessness.

“Something I’ve heard a lot of people says is ‘I’ve logged in and I’ve lost $5000!’… If you log in and notice that there’s $5000 gone, that feels very overwhelming, that can cause a lot of anxiety.

“If it’s a long-term investment, I’m talking over 10 years, you’re looking at a long time horizon. Things like what’s going on right now are within reason – they do go up, they do go down, there’s actually nothing we can do about it. I’m in it for the long term.

“So what I would do is make sure that you are in the right fund… you can seek financial advice just to make sure it is in the right fund – so if say you’re wanting to buy a house you should make sure your financial advisor knows that.”

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

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UK royal family’s dilemma over Andrew’s daughters

April 5, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

The downfall of the former prince Andrew has left the British monarchy with a right royal headache — how to handle his daughters caught up in the scandal of US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The uncertain future of princesses Beatrice, 37, and Eugenie, 36, the children of Andrew — now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, has filled the British press in recent weeks.

Andrew, the second of the late queen Elizabeth II’s three sons and brother to King Charles III, was arrested in mid-February amid new revelations of his ties to the late billionaire Epstein.

He was questioned for hours at a police station on suspicion of misconduct in public office during his decade-long role as a UK trade envoy. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing, and has not been charged, but remains under police caution.

“We can now also confirm that we are providing early investigative advice to Thames Valley Police in relation to” Mountbatten-Windsor, prosecutors told AFP on Thursday.

Andrew was stripped of his royal titles in October by the king amid the growing scandal around Epstein, who died in prison in 2019.

And while his daughters are not active members of the royal family, Buckingham Palace has made it clear they retain their titles as princesses.

They have always been seen as close to the king’s two sons, heir Prince William and Prince Harry, and were part of the royal family’s inner circle.

In December, they attended the family’s traditional Christmas church service on the eastern Sandringham estate even though their parents were not invited.

But the two women and their young families would not be at Windsor this weekend for the traditional Easter gathering, a royal source confirmed to AFP.

The two had made alternative plans, but will be seen at future family celebrations, the source added.

“They want to avoid any association with them, as the York brand has become toxic,” said royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams.

New emails released in January showed Andrew remained in contact with Epstein long after the American’s conviction for trafficking and sex with a minor.

He also appeared to have shared sensitive UK information with Epstein such as trade documents.

The documents also revealed the extent of the ties between Epstein and Ferguson, with the princesses’ names appearing in numerous emails, although there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing by them.

In one of the documents, Epstein writes that “Ferg and the two girls” came to visit him, less than a week after he was freed from prison in 2009, following a conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution.

In light of these new revelations “hard questions will need to be asked”, said royal expert Ed Owens.

“If it is shown that they have benefited from an elite network, that was partially introduced to them by Jeffrey Epstein… this is problematic,” said Owens.

Andrew biographer Andrew Lownie said he believed the sisters are “deeply implicated” rather than “collateral damage”, highlighting a 2010 incident in which Fergie was secretly filmed by a tabloid selling access to Andrew.

“This was a family business. The girls were taken on these taxpayer-funded trips,” he said.

“They’ve built up a very useful contact book which they are exploiting to this day.”

Both women have successful careers. Beatrice was vice president of strategic partnerships at Afiniti, an AI technology company, for a decade, and has now set up her own advisory group.

Eugenie is a director at Hauser & Wirth contemporary art gallery in London. But last month she quit her role as a patron for the Anti-Slavery International charity.

Both Lownie and Owens believe the royal family must distance itself from the two women.

Their hybrid status “one foot in the monarchy, one foot out” endangers the entire Windsor family, said Owens.

Fitzwilliams added: “We don’t know what might come up next. There might be new scandals”.

Lownie agreed. “There are scandals still in their cupboard” waiting to be exposed, he said.

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

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Life-saving services need priority in fuel plan, aviation sector says

April 2, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

The aviation sector is calling for a specific crisis plan around fuel. Supplied / Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust

The Aviation Industry Association says life-preserving services such as aeromedical, search and rescue, and firefighting need to be prioritised as part of the government’s fuel response plan.

The aviation sector has been calling for a specific crisis plan around fuel for flying as the prices of jet fuel and Avgas have shot up as conflict continues in the Middle East.

Chief executive Simon Wallace said since the beginning of March jet fuel had gone up about 70 percent – from around $1.60 to $2.80 a litre – and Avgas had increased around 100 percent, from around $2.60 to $5.00.

He said those fuel increases needed to be able to be passed back to the agencies they were contracted by.

Simon Wallace. RNZ / Edward O’Driscoll

“This is why the association has really emphasised the importance of all these services, because actually, as operators, they can’t absorb these costs and they can’t continue to provide these services if they are not reimbursed,” he said.

“So we don’t want these services to be a threat and provided they are prioritised in the fuel plan and they’re at the top of the list then these services will be maintained.”

Wallace said they were working closely with agencies.

“Fire and Emergency New Zealand has allowed our operators – like our helicopter operators, for example – to be able to impose a fuel surcharge, which they have to do because of the increases.”

Another area of aviation they wanted to see the government prioritise was agriculture, Wallace said. He said between March and May was a critical time for top dressers putting fertiliser down.

“So it’s really important that they can do that, that they have access to fuel.”

He said it was also important for animal welfare.

“I think the concern for the Aviation Industry Association is that a lot of the smaller operators, particularly agriculture, but also the emergency services, are not overlooked in the development of an aviation-specific plan,” he said.

“We acknowledge the real importance of international air connections, and they are vital not only for passengers and cargo, but we have domestic aviation services which connect the country to itself, and these need to be part of any prioritisation. “

Meanwhile on Morning Report on Thursday morning, Associate Transport Minister James Meager said he was not concerned yet about the jet fuel supply in New Zealand.

New Zealand’s jet fuel stocks have dropped since the last update, leaving about 46 days of cover.

Meager said that was within the normal range, and it was natural that the supply could go down temporarily while the country waited for more fuel to arrive.

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

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Easter Sunday trading rules ‘confusing’, need overhaul, EMA says

April 4, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Small grocery shops are one of the few stores that can be exempt to shop shutdowns over Easter (file image). MARK PAPALII / RNZ

A business association says Easter Sunday trading rules are confusing and need an overhaul.

Restrictions on alcohol sales have just been eased, so that venues that could already open over Easter can now sell alcohol to customers without the requirement they buy a meal.

Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) head of advocacy Alan McDonald told RNZ now was a good time to look at the Shop Trading Hours Act as well.

“Obviously they’ve eased up some of the alcohol laws to clarify them because they were very complex – the Easter ones are just as complex.

“It’s been time to look at them for a long time,” he added.

Easter Sunday was not a statutory public holiday and retailers should be able to decide for themselves whether they open on that day, McDonald said.

A 2016 change to the Shop Trading Hours Act also meant city and district councils could create their own Easter Sunday shopping policies for their respective territories, adding to the confusion, he said.

“You get all sorts of anomalies. Queenstown for example, I think, opens, Rotorua doesn’t. Parts of Parnell in Auckland are allowed to open, but other parts of Auckland aren’t allowed to open.

“You just end up with a multitude of confusing options.”

There are three types of exemption to the shop shutdowns:

  • Tourist resorts such as Taupō and Queenstown on Easter Sunday only
  • Places where the local council has said shops can open on Easter Sunday only
  • Certain kinds of shops (limited to “small grocery shops”, service stations, takeaways, bars, cafes, duty-free stores, “shops providing services” (and not selling things), real estate agencies, pharmacies, garden centres (only on Easter Sunday), public transport terminals, souvenir shops and exhibitions “devoted entirely or primarily to agriculture, art, industry and science”).

The rules needed to be standardised, McDonald said.

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

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Property Market – Property values not feeling war effects … for now

April 2, 2026

Source: Cotality

Property values across Aotearoa New Zealand increased by 0.2% in March, matching the same rise seen in February. While this marks a modest lift, it comes against the backdrop of the Iran conflict that began in late February and continues to weigh on business and household confidence.

Cotality NZ’s latest Home Value Index (HVI) also shows that the national median value in March of $802,599 was -1.3% lower than a year ago and still down by -17.1% from the peak in early 2022 – which was $968,333.

Trends across the main centres were a little more divergent in March, with Kirikiriroa Hamilton and Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington both edging down by -0.1%, while Tauranga and Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland were flat. By contrast, Ōtautahi Christchurch was up by 0.6% and Ōtepoti Dunedin by 0.7%.

Cotality NZ Chief Property Economist, Kelvin Davidson said that March’s subtle rise in property values at the national level would pique the interest of those looking for early signs of a market upturn, but he also noted that uncertainty remains high.

“Coming off the back of February’s small gain, the latest rise means we’ve now had two increases in a row, potentially signalling a change in trend.”

“That being said, the increases in national values in the past two months clearly remain small and have only made a minor difference to the drop from early 2022’s peak.”

“The Iran conflict is throwing an extra layer of uncertainty over everything.”

“In the property market, values were already still proving slow to respond to the falls in mortgage rates since mid-2024 and the nascent economic recovery.”

“The missing piece has probably been a confidence factor, and now, in light of the latest conflict and sharply higher fuel prices, it’s difficult to see housing sentiment or property values lifting sharply in the near term.”

“Of course, there are always two sides to the coin, and while some sellers/owners may not be too pleased with current housing conditions, first home buyers are capitalising – provided that they feel secure about their jobs in this current uncertain environment.”

“In a nutshell, both the economy and housing market still face a testing period ahead.”

Index results for March 2026
Change in dwelling values
Month
Quarter
Annual
From peak
Median value
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
0.0%
-0.2%
-3.4%
-23.1%
$1,039,955
Kirikiriroa Hamilton
-0.1%
0.6%
-2.1%
-12.5%
$723,721
Tauranga
0.0%
0.1%
2.0%
-14.7%
$917,527
Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington*
-0.1%
0.1%
-1.7%
-25.0%
$771,699
Ōtautahi Christchurch
0.6%
1.1%
2.4%
-2.2%
$689,739
Ōtepoti Dunedin
0.7%
1.7%
2.0%
-9.3%
$622,269
Aotearoa New Zealand
0.2%
0.3%
-1.3%
-17.1%
$802,599

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland

Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland saw flat property values in March across the market as a whole, but this reflected ups and downs at a more granular level. For example, Manukau saw a 0.3% rise, while North Shore was up by 0.2%. Yet Rodney, Waitakere, and Franklin all dropped by -0.3% or more.

Waitakere and Franklin have also been weaker over a three-month period to start the year (down by -0.8% and -0.9% respectively), while North Shore and Manukau have both edged slightly higher since December.

Mr Davidson said, “Auckland’s housing affordability has improved significantly in recent years as more supply has become available, prices have dropped, and incomes have increased. It’s not cheap as such, but better affordability probably does still set the scene for rising house prices eventually.”

“It’s just that in the meantime, general economic confidence around Auckland still looks subdued and it doesn’t benefit as much from a booming agricultural sector as much as say the Canterbury/Christchurch or Otago/Dunedin areas – where property values lifted again in March.”

“Until we can see more of an improvement in the services sector of the economy, Auckland’s housing market may well remain slow – but favourable for buyers.”

 
Change in dwelling values
Month
Quarter
Annual
From peak
Median value
Rodney
-0.3%
-0.6%
-2.4%
-21.3%
$1,194,535
Te Raki Paewhenua North Shore
0.2%
0.1%
-0.8%
-17.9%
$1,299,465
Waitakere
-0.3%
-0.8%
-2.7%
-24.9%
$902,907
Auckland City
-0.1%
-0.2%
-4.8%
-24.6%
$1,073,683
Manukau
0.3%
0.3%
-3.8%
-24.5%
$975,458
Papakura
-0.1%
-0.4%
-3.4%
-24.1%
$796,089
Franklin
-0.4%
-0.9%
-3.9%
-23.2%
$916,700
Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland
0.0%
-0.2%
-3.4%
-23.1%
$1,039,955

Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington

Variability in property values was also on show in the wider Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington area in March, with Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt for example dropping by -0.6%, but Kāpiti Coast and Te Awa Kairangi ki Uta Upper Hutt both rising by at least 0.7% over the month.

That being said, Wellington has still broadly been one of the weakest parts of the country over a longer horizon, with all sub-markets down to some degree over the past 12 months and all by more than 20% from the peak.

Mr Davidson noted, “to a degree new housing supply will have been one factor keeping a lid on values lately, especially in the markets outside Wellington City itself. But as we also see in Auckland, economic confidence in the Wellington area remains muted and it clearly also has a lower exposure to growth sectors such as farming. In this environment, it’s no great surprise that Wellington’s property values remain patchy.”

“The Iran conflict may again push this year’s election into the background for a while, but as domestic political uncertainty rises later in 2026 this is also cause for caution around Wellington’s house prices.”

 
Change in dwelling values
Month
Quarter
Annual
From peak
Median value
Kāpiti Coast
0.7%
1.7%
-2.2%
-21.8%
$786,281
Porirua
-0.1%
-0.5%
-3.0%
-24.2%
$731,942
Te Awa Kairangi ki Uta Upper Hutt
0.9%
1.0%
-0.7%
-23.8%
$707,441
Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt
-0.6%
-0.5%
-3.4%
-26.9%
$657,422
Wellington City
0.0%
0.4%
-0.8%
-24.6%
$857,311
Te-Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington
-0.1%
0.1%
-1.7%
-25.0%
$771,699

Regional results

March’s data showed a pretty consistent picture of rising property values in the next tier of markets down from the main centres, with areas such as Te Papaioea Palmerston North and Ngāmotu New Plymouth only edging higher (0.1% apiece) but Ahuriri Napier up by 0.7%, Tairāwhiti Gisborne 0.8%, and Waihōpai Invercargill by 1.7%.

“Invercargill continues to outperform most other parts of the country, rising by 7.1% over the past 12 months. Wairoa and Grey Districts are the only other areas to have growth of 7% or more since March last year,” Davidson noted.

“Invercargill also sits alongside Grey, Westland, Ashburton, Timaru, Central Otago, Southland District, and Gore as the only markets where house prices are currently at a new peak. Those are all in the South Island and with a strong farming base.”

“Of course, even in these areas, the Iran conflict puts a new level of uncertainty into the mix, especially around diesel supply for primary production. In other words, housing market activity and prices in most if not all parts of the country are vulnerable to this developing economic shock.”

 Region
Change in dwelling values
Month
Quarter
Annual
From peak
Median value
Whangārei
0.4%
0.4%
-1.3%
-19.3%
$725,087
Heretaunga Hastings
0.2%
0.6%
-0.5%
-17.9%
$730,431
Te Papaioea Palmerston North
0.1%
0.7%
1.8%
-17.8%
$594,523
Ahuriri Napier
0.7%
1.3%
0.1%
-17.6%
$710,615
Tairāwhiti Gisborne
0.8%
1.4%
4.0%
-13.6%
$608,363
Whakatū Nelson
0.4%
0.7%
-1.1%
-13.3%
$714,059
Rotorua
0.2%
0.6%
-0.8%
-12.2%
$652,298
Whanganui
0.3%
1.3%
2.4%
-9.5%
$497,509
Ngāmotu New Plymouth
0.1%
-0.9%
-1.7%
-6.7%
$698,943
Tāhuna Queenstown
0.3%
2.2%
2.9%
-2.0%
$1,583,378
Waihōpai Invercargill
1.7%
2.6%
7.1%
At peak
$531,571

Property market outlook

Mr Davidson noted that the Reserve Bank remains on high alert and although there won’t necessarily be any knee-jerk official cash rate rises in the short term, it’s important to remember that mortgage rates are driven by a broader range of factors.

“Global uncertainty stemming from the Iran conflict and concerns about wider inflationary pressure have already seen interest rates rise in world money markets, and that’s flowed through to mortgage rate lifts at some NZ banks.”

“Many households will be watching that very closely and recent data shows there’s recently been a strong shift by borrowers towards fixing longer.”

“That will give some sense of security to individuals, but for the wider housing market the risks of higher inflation, rising interest rates, and/or a softening economy both point to headwinds,” Davidson said.

“Indeed, our modelled forecast for property sales to rise from around 90,000 last year to 100,000 this year is starting to look a stretch. In the end, though, everything is a watching brief at the moment when it comes to the economy and housing market.”

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Media OutReach Newswire Powers Chinese Brands Going Global with Kitty Lee as New Managing Partner, Greater China

April 2, 2026

Source: Media Outreach

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2026 – Media OutReach Newswire, Asia Pacific’s first and only global newswire, has appointed Ms Kitty Lee as Managing Partner, Greater China. This is a newly created role designed to accelerate the company’s growth in Mainland China and Greater China.

As the first and only newswire company founded in Asia Pacific, Media OutReach Newswire is committed to supporting Mainland Chinese companies as they expand into international markets. The company helps them build brand awareness and reputation through its global press release distribution network, which reaches more than 200,000 journalists and editors across over 500 trade media outlets. The journalist database is researched and maintained by a team of media researchers based around the world. As a result, the distribution has helped Mainland Chinese clients garner earned media coverage and attract journalists’ inquiries for feature interviews.

Additionally, the newswire guarantees news posting on its clients’ press release on real news sites with domain authority. This is especially important as the public are using Gen AI-Citation. Media OutReach Newswire has just launched JSON-LD (JavaScript Object Notation for Linked Data) Schema Markup to enhance the technical infrastructure of clients’ press releases and optimise AI visibility. The company continues to focus on adopting AI across its press release distribution network, workflows, and post-release reporting.

Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO, says: “Our focus has always been on supporting PR, marketing, and communications professionals in achieving real results in building brand awareness for their companies. Together with our Total PR and Communications AI-powered SaaS portal, our total solutions from connecting press releases with real journalists maximising earned media coverage, to creating AI-visible online news postings, and delivering auto-downloadable multi-format reports with data insights and PR campaign intelligence have provided clients with tangible results.”

“We are pleased that Kitty, who brings over two decades of experience in the PR industry and a strong track record of helping Chinese brands successfully expand into global markets, has joined us as Managing Partner,” she added. “Having used Media OutReach Newswire’s press release distribution service for several years, she was impressed by the company’s deep understanding of client needs and the quality of its deliverables.”

Kitty Lee added, “I have seen the important role that Media OutReach Newswire has played in my work, and the brand trust we have helped to achieve for Mainland Chinese companies expanding into global markets. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute my knowledge, drive change, and foster innovation for the advancement and efficiency of the Chinese Mainland PR industry.”

Ms Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire, further says, “The growing demand for an authentic newswire partner has created a clear opportunity for us to expand into Mainland China, GBA and Greater China. Kitty brings exactly what we need: deep relationships across this region’s PR and marketing community, and a clear understanding of what brand communications must achieve. Her in-depth industry knowledge will guide our market expansion and product development as we our business goal is to support Chinese Mainland companies to build their brand awareness and brand reputation across Southeast Asia, ASEAN, Asia Pacific, the USA, Canada, Latin America, UK & Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.”

Kitty joins from FleishmanHillard, where she served as Senior Vice President & Partner, advising clients across retail, property, healthcare and travel & tourism sectors. She holds a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Nottingham and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Hong Kong Baptist University. A Cantonese native, she is fluent in English and Mandarin, and will be based in Hong Kong.

Hashtag: #MediaOutReachNewswire #pressrelease

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

About Media OutReach Newswire

Media OutReach Newswire is Asia Pacific’s first global newswire, serving as a trusted partner to media, corporations, agencies and governments across the region and the globe.

Founded in 2009 as a champion of the PR industry, Media OutReach Newswire leverages AI and SaaS technology to redefine press release distribution, providing Total Communications Solutions with data insights and PR campaign intelligence for strategic communicators and PR professionals.

With a global network of over 200,000 journalists and editors, 70,000+ media titles, 1,500 media partners, and more than 40 languages, Media OutReach Newswire is the only global newswire with guaranteed verbatim postings on real news sites. Press releases on authentic media with high domain authority are trusted by search engines and AI models, power SEO and GEO for AI search, surfacing brands for LLM citations.

Headquartered in Hong Kong SAR, with offices across Chinese Mainland, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan, the global press release distribution network spans Asia Pacific, ASEAN, and Southeast Asia, the US, Canada, Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

For more information about our services, solutions and network, please visit www.media-outreach.com

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

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Gregory Hornblow suppression lapses: Former exec convicted of receiving underage sexual services

April 2, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Greg Hornblow RNZ

The former media executive who admitted paying a 14 year-old for sex and fought to keep his name secret can now be named.

Gregory Rex Hornblow was sentenced in March at the Auckland District Court to 10 months home detention and ordered to pay reparation payments of $3000 to the teenager.

The 60 year-old was the chief executive of One Roof – the property arm owned by the New Zealand Herald publisher NZME – when he was charged with receiving commercial sexual services.

NZME’s chief executive Michael Boggs has confirmed Hornblow was under an employment investigation over other complaints at the time and was sacked when the company learned of his arrest.

In a statement, he said Hornblow was facing disciplinary action and was alleged to have “demonstrated inappropriate behaviour” at a work function and he received a final written warning.

A formal complaint was then made against Hornblow that included accusations he had made “inappropriate comments” at meetings and in the office.

It was during this process, in November, that NZME learned of his charge.

“When we learned of the charge, we immediately terminated his employment. Due to the suppression order we have not been in a position to provide any further detail until now,” Boggs said.

In the coming days Hornblow pleaded guilty to a charge of receiving commercial sexual services from a person under 18.

Details revealed in Court by Judge Kathryn Maxwell show Hornblow referred to himself as a “sugar daddy” and met the 14 year-old on Snapchat in September, 2025.

He bought her Ubereats in exchange for intimate photos and videos, Judge Kathryn Maxwell said.

Over the course of three weeks, she sent 12 photos and 19 videos of a sexual nature, including a short video of her in her school uniform.

He paid $1000 to the teen to come to his house, where the two engaged in unspecified sexual activity in his bedroom, Judge Maxwell said.

The man told the girl he couldn’t pay her for sex, and instructed her to say she wanted to have sex and he had just given her the money.

Judge Maxwell refused Hornblow’s application for a discharge without conviction. Finn Blackwell

Judge Maxwell said the victim felt disgusted by her interaction with the man.

She said he had effectively enticed her to prostitute herself, and coached her to avoid the application of the law.

“I do not accept the offending was less serious because the victim consented,” she said.

Under the Prostitution Reform Act, no one under the age of 18 may be contracted for commercial sexual services. The legal age of consent is 16.

Judge Maxwell said the victim was underage for what he intended, and he knew it.

Judge Maxwell refused Hornblow’s application for a discharge without conviction, as well as his permanent name suppression.

A law change last year meant the victim had to agree to the man’s identity remaining suppressed, which Judge Maxwell said she did not.

She gave discounts for his guilty plea, remorse, and reported good character.

He was convicted and sentenced to 10-months of home detention as well as the $3000 in emotional harm reparations.

At the time, Judge Maxwell granted interim suppression for Hornblow which has now lapsed.

At his sentencing in March, Hornblow’s lawyer, Graeme Newell asked the Court to discharge his client without a conviction. He said Hornblow believed the girl involved to be 17-years-old.

But in reality she was 14.

Greg Hornblow bought his victim Ubereats in exchange for intimate photos and videos. RNZ

Newell said Hornblow would find it hard to find work and the conviction would impact his family.

When Judge Maxwell declined to grant name suppression, Newell said there would be an appeal.

However, on Thursday, the Auckland District Court told RNZ the appeal had been abandoned, opening the way for Hornblow to be named.

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

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Primary teachers’ union NZEI says still gains in new deal, despite same salary settings

April 3, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

The union had hoped to negotiate a payment to acknowledge the extra work involved in implementing the new curriculum but was unsuccesful. 123RF

The primary teachers’ union says there have been gains in the deal its members accepted following drawn out bargaining, despite the salary settings being the same as an earlier offer.

Educational Institute Te Riu Roa primary teacher members agreed to a 2.5 percent pay rise with a further 2.1 percent in January next year.

Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche said the pay increase was the same as was offered in December and the delay had cost primary teachers about $550 each.

NZEI Te Riu Roa primary teacher leader and bargaining team member Barb Curran said if the ministry had made the new offer earlier, a settlement could have been reached sooner.

She said there were gains in the final deal, including an increase to the camp allowance, funds for training and parity with secondary school teachers over allowances for extra duties.

“We will finally at the very end of the term of this have our management units be worth the same as a secondary unit. That’s been a point of contention for some time and an anomaly that no-one could satisfactorily explain.”

NZEI Te Riu Roa primary teacher leader and bargaining team member Barb Curran. Supplied / NZEI

The value of a unit would increase from $4500 to $5250 by October 2028.

Around 60 percent of teachers qualified for extra duty payments, Curran said.

“We’re also pleased we’ve got some opportunity for our relievers to do some professional learning and development – you could argue that should be business as usual, that the government would be providing professional learning for all teachers, but our relievers have been missing out, so we’re pleased for them.”

The union had hoped to negotiate a payment to acknowledge the extra work involved in implementing the new curriculum but was unsuccesful, she said.

“We had hoped for some sort of recognition of that work. Primary principals received a lump sum to recognise that work towards the curriculum changes, and we were hoping primary teachers who were actually in the classroom doing the work would be offered something to recognise that.”

Curran said it was frustrating the pay offer was below inflation, especially when there were huge increases in costs around fuel that were seeping into other areas.

“But our members have made the decision, so we’ll move on. We have other things we need to work towards in the education sector.”

It had been a long, difficult bargaining period, including scathing public critiques of teachers by senior government ministers and an unprecedented offer to non-union members ahead of settlement, Curran said.

Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche said the pay increase was the same as was offered in December. Reece Baker/RNZ

The union requested Employment Relations Authority intervention over the stalled pay talks earlier this year after rejecting a mediated offer it described as mostly unchanged from the rejected December offer.

Following facilitated bargaining, a proposed settlement was put to NZEI members late last month.

Under the terms of the settlement, teachers on the top two steps of the salary scale would receive a cumulative pay increase of 4.7 percent by January next year.

This meant teachers at the top of the pay scale would see their base salary increase to $107,886 per annum.

Teachers moving up the pay scale would continue to receive annual increases along with a cumulative 4.6 percent pay increase by January next year.

Secondary teachers accepted a similiar deal in December and primary school principals accepted an offer in February.

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Fastener Taiwan 2026: A Global Hub for Sustainable Innovation and Strategic Sourcing

April 2, 2026

Source: Media Outreach

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2026 – The eighth edition of the Taiwan International Fastener Show is scheduled to take place from April 22 to 24, 2026, at the Kaohsiung Exhibition Center. As global supply chains face unprecedented cost pressures and industrial structure shifts, this premier event serves as an essential platform for international buyers to connect with the world’s most resilient manufacturing clusters. Industry professionals are strongly encouraged to pre-register online now at the official website (www.fastenertaiwan.com.tw) to secure their entry and explore the latest innovations from over 300 exhibitors.

Being the only B2B international fastener trade show in Taiwan, Fastener Taiwan showcases a comprehensive spectrum of products and services, including finished fasteners, fastener machines and materials, molds and tooling, inspection instruments, and hand tools.

Innovative and value-added solutions can be found from key participants including Sheh Fung, a leader in high-end painted screws; ZYH YIN, the primary screw supplier to IKEA; TAIWAN SHAN YIN, providing dental implants and automotive components, and SPEC, a qualified supplier for global brands like Tesla and Mercedes-Benz. Additionally, Taiwan Steel Group (TSG) will present integrated solutions for the aerospace and renewable energy industries, while machinery giants like JERN YAO and CHIEN TSAI will debut energy-efficient forging and thread-rolling technologies.

International brands are increasingly drawn to Taiwan’s growing markets, with exhibitors like Germany’s Dörken Coatings and Achilles Seibert, Japan’s Fukae Spring, and Korea’s HAWERS utilizing the show to expand their global reach.

Beyond the abundant display, Fastener Taiwan features the Global Fastener Forum, where industry experts discuss industry development and analyze regional regulations and opportunities. The Procurement Policy and Market Briefing will host leaders from major European distributor associations- EFDA, BIAFD and FDS, to discuss the implications of the EU CBAM and evolving procurement standards. To offer a deeper perspective, the Site Visit program provides buyers with exclusive access to local factories to witness fastener production process firsthand, while One-on-One Sourcing Meetings offer opportunities to discuss specific enquiries.

Fastener Taiwan 2026 is more than a trade show; it is where global industry leaders gather to forge the next decade of success. We invite professionals from all sectors, especially the aerospace, semiconductor, infrastructure, medical, and construction sectors, to register for visit now (https://reurl.cc/O6XXD9) to empower your business through fastening innovation.

Hashtag: #FastenerTaiwan2026

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

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

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Ngāti Tahu react to the first successful prosecution for illegally exporting pounamu

April 2, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

14 Poutini Ngāi Tahu (West Coast Ngāi Tahu) pounamu stones weighing close to 60 kg returned on 1 November 2024 by New Zealand Customs. Supplied

Ngāi Tahu wants to see tougher restrictions on exporting pounamu after a mother and son were found guilty of attempting to illegally export pounamu to China over the legal limit.

It is the first successful prosecution of its kind by New Zealand Customs after Boyuan Zhang and his mother Xin Li were found carrying almost 18 [17.9] kilograms in their luggage in 2024.

While not a party to the case, Ngāi Tahu holds legal ownership of all naturally occurring pounamu within its tribal boundaries since 1997 under the Ngāi Tahu Pounamu Vesting Act.

Ngāti Māhaki ki Makaawhio is one of the kaitiaki or stewardship hapū of Ngāi Tahu with a particular whakapapa connection to pounamu.

Representative Susan Wallace told Morning Report pounamu is a sacred resource and taonga recognised by many New Zealanders, not just Māori, who wear it and have a connection to the stone.

Descendants of Ngāi Tahu attended the trial in the Manukau District Court last month, and Wallace said the verdict was an emotional moment for them.

“It does serve as a warning that attempts to export pounamu without permission can and will be prosecuted so it’s a huge outcome for us.

“The case also highlighted a number of areas where the export regime could be strengthened, and that includes the current weight threshold. You can currently export up to five kilograms out of the country – this case showed that you can’t get around that by sharing the weight amongst a group of people, which is what happened in this case.”

Wallace said Ngāi Tahu had been working with Customs and the police.

Asked why there was such a large black market for pounamu, Wallace said she believed it was because pounamu was not mined here to the extent it was in other countries.

“So we’re fortunate to be able to have quite a lot of pounamu that is available. As a result of that, others from overseas are coming in quite regularly to take and export pounamu. We’re actually wanting to tighten that up – we think that the weight needs to be lowered significantly.”

Exporting pounamu in quantities over five kilograms was only permitted with the approval of the Customs minister.

Public fossicking for pounamu was only allowed on West Coast beaches, and the size of pounamu allowed to be taken was limited to something you could carry in one hand.

Rivers were able to be fossicked by Ngāi Tahu whānau members, but only with a collection permit granted by the kaitiaki (guardian) rūnanga.

Wallace said the case showed there were areas of the law that needed to be tightened up, including the weight limit for exporting pounamu.

“We’d love to see it reduced down completely and that there is a special permit that might be given that would enable it to be taken out legally, but actually with the support of Ngāi Tahu rather than it being something that is, I guess, managed through the government.”

Ngāi Tahu had an authentication process in place for buyers to check the authenticity of their taonga, she said.

“So we have a unique traceability code from the seller, you can enter that into the Ngāi Tahu pounamu website and trace back where that particular piece of pounamu came from.

“It’s a shame that despite this case there [are] so many online listings for illegally sourced stone, so it is showing the scale of the black market pounamu trade at the moment.”

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

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/06/pm-edition-top-10-business-articles-on-livenews-co-nz-for-april-6-2026-full-text/

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AM Edition: Top 10 Politics Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for April 6, 2026 – Full Text

AM Edition: Here are the top 10 politics articles on LiveNews.co.nz for April 6, 2026 – Full Text

The House: Members of Parliament debate ability to take mickey

April 5, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Green MP Kahurangi Carter speaking in the urgent debate. VNP / Phil Smith

This week, Members of Parliament debated a bill to protect parody and satire – the right to take the mickey under New Zealand’s copyright law, something they themselves may well be the target of.

Every second sitting, Wednesday at Parliament is Members’ Day, which is a chance for MPs outside cabinet to put their own legislation forward. It is drawn in a ballot in the form of random picks out of an old Deka biscuit tin.

Some of New Zealand’s most socially significant laws have started life in that tin, from marriage equality to end-of-life choice. This week, it was something a little lighter, but still grounded in democratic principles.

Green Party MP Kahurangi Carter’s Copyright (Parody and Satire) Amendment Bill was pulled from the biscuit tin way back in November 2024. It finally got its first reading on Wednesday, with Carter dusting off a speech that had likely sat in the filing cabinet for some time.

She opened by making the case for art in uncertain times.

“There’s a lot going on in the world right now and so we must lean into art to help us make sense of the world,” Carter said. “Oh, what a grey world it would be without our artists.”

The bill aims to clarify that parody and satire are protected under copyright law, which would bring New Zealand’s law in this area in line with Australia and other jurisdictions.

“This bill amends the Copyright Act 1994 to clarify that a fair dealing within a work does not constitute an infringement of the copyright of the work, if it is for the use of parody or satire.”

At its heart, she argues, satire is a core democratic tool.

“Parody and satire sits at the cornerstone of any democracy. It holds power to account, encouraging discussion.”

The debate made for a rare moment of lightness in an election year – a brief reprieve from more bellicose debates.

When it comes to satire, politicians are often the punchline, so there was a touch of irony in MPs debating whether to protect the very people who mock them, something Labour’s Arena Williams said was essential to a healthy democracy.

“All of us have an interest, as politicians, to see a thriving public discourse that includes taking the mickey out of us,” she said. “It’s in our DNA.

“Part of the Kiwi approach to our politics is that we can have a bit of a laugh and enjoy a robust debate, as well as, at times, taking the mickey out of politicians as a form of legitimate discourse.”

Members’ Bills from Opposition MPs tend not to make it far, whether it is because they clash with government policy, are too politically charged or simply too ambitious. This one found broad appeal, drawing support from across the House.

National’s Vanessa Weenink welcomed the cross-party agreement.

“Having bills like this supported across the House – or at least widely supported – is a good thing. It shows that where things are important for our democracy… nobody’s really got a mortgage on good ideas here.”

Not quite everyone was convinced.

New Zealand First’s Jenny Marcroft struck a more cautious tone, raising concerns about what she called “moral rights” and whether the bill goes far enough to address them.

“It’s silent on moral rights. How will moral rights be assessed?” she asked, outlining concerns about attribution, integrity and reputational protection for creators.

For those stated reasons, New Zealand First did not support the bill, which now heads to the Social Services and Community Select Committee, where the public will get their say.

The committee will call for public submissions soon.

  • The first reading debate can be watched here
  • Info about the bill can be found here
  • The bill itself can be read here
  • Find out how to make a submission

RNZ’s The House, with insights into Parliament, legislation and issues, is made with funding from Parliament’s Office of the Clerk. Enjoy our articles or podcast at RNZ.

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

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Union win for home support workers – but mileage increase still falls short – PSA

April 2, 2026

Source: PSA

A temporary increase in the mileage allowance for home support workers is a welcome response to the fuel crisis but more is needed.
Health Minister Simeon Brown announced today a temporary 12 month increase in the allowance from 63.5 cents to 82.5 cents per kilometre.
“This is a positive step forward for home support workers who have been subsidising our public health system system with their own vehicles and their own wallets for too long,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pukenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“This is a win for these low paid workers doing essential life-preserving work in clients’ homes all over New Zealand. They campaigned loud and strong for an increase, but this must be just the beginning of the support they need.
“These workers were already doing it tough after the Government cancelled pay equity, stripping away the prospect of fair pay for a workforce that is overwhelmingly female and chronically undervalued.
“The mileage rate has been frozen since March 2022. Fuel prices have surged, vehicle running costs have climbed, and these workers have worn every cent of that gap. A temporary fix does not cut it. It must be higher, it must be made permanent.”
The PSA is continuing legal action in the Employment Relations Authority, arguing that requiring home support workers to use their own vehicles as a tool of the trade breaches the Wages Protection Act 1983. That claim will proceed regardless of today’s announcement.
“The mileage allowance must be set at an adequate level that properly reflects costs and we still need to see the annual statutory review of the In-Between Travel allowance result in further increases,” said Fitzsimons.
“Many home support workers cannot get enough guaranteed hours to earn a decent living. The additional hours that top up their incomes can change week to week, leaving them with precarious and unpredictable pay.”
The Government’s Employment Leave Bill adds further pressure. Many home support workers are part-time, and the proposed changes to sick and annual leave entitlements will leave them worse off.
“The Government has taken away pay equity, offered a temporary mileage fix that does not go far enough, and is now moving to cut leave entitlements for part-time workers.
“Every one of these decisions hits the same workers: women, part-time, doing essential work for low pay – it speaks so much to this government’s priorities – workers won’t forget the $3 billion tax cut to landlords, money that could have helped make their lives better.
“The PSA will keep fighting for home support workers in the ERA, at the bargaining table, and wherever else it takes. These workers deserve a permanent, adequate mileage rate, secure hours, and the pay equity they were promised.”
Previous statement
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.

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Young people are turning their lives around

April 2, 2026

Source: New Zealand Government

The latest Annual Report on the Child and Youth Strategy, released today, has clearly shown a transformation in youth offending. 

Minister for Children Karen Chhour wants to take this opportunity to acknowledge the significant progress to what was once a national shame, youth crime, and has now become a great success of this government. 

“We’re now consistently seeing offending rates amongst children dropping, with the improvement since 2019/20 particularly significant and positive. 

This report confirms what I have been seeing and hearing from communities. They feel safer, their young people no longer believe that there will not be consequences for harming others and are turning their lives around by making better choices. 

The biggest improvement has come amongst what was once considered the hardest to help group, serious and persistent young offenders. 

These are young people who had been victimising others in serious and dangerous ways. 

The latest data I’ve received shows that the number of serious and persistent child and youth offenders is 25 percent lower than the June 2023 baseline figure. 

The goal, considered ambitious and challenging at the time, was a 15 percent reduction by 2030. Now, we are possibly looking at achieving double that drop within the next 18 months. 

The report also noted a reduction in substantiated findings of child abuse and neglect. 

We’re still receiving a record high number of Reports of Concern, and I strongly encourage anyone who treatment of a child that worries them to contact Oranga Tamariki. 

We’re turning around generational issues, that will take decades, but it is positive that people are speaking up, our children’s system is listening, and young people are safer and turning their lives around because of it. 

Lastly, I would like to personally thank the staff at Oranga Tamariki for helping make this happen. It is a challenging and sometimes thankless job, but I have travelled the country meeting as many social workers as I can and I regularly come away inspired and deeply humbled. 

“It means a lot to me, as Minister for Children, and also on a personal level, to be able to be able to play a part in positively turning around so many young lives,” says Minister Chhour. 

MIL OSI

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UK-led Hormuz talks demand ‘immediate’ reopening of Hormuz

April 3, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Peter Hutchison and Helen Rowe, AFP with aditional reporting from RNZ

A Marine Traffic map showing ship movements in the Strait of Hormuz. AFP / JONATHAN RAA

New Zealand High Commissioner to the UK, Hamish Cooper, has attended a meeting discussing joint action to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

In a statement from a spokesperson for Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters, the discussions were ” collaborative and provided a useful opportunity to discuss diplomatic and political options for restoring freedom of navigation and the free movement of vital commodities through the Strait of Hormuz, including how countries might work together to achieve this.”

The statement also said the coming together of 40 countries for the meeting demonstrated “strong international agreement on the urgent need to restore freedom of navigation and see the Strait of Hormuz reopened.

It also alluded to the impacts felt in New Zealand due to the Strait being shut, saying it is directly impacting New Zealand’s economy and leading to higher fuel prices.

The statement said New Zealand will continue to work with partners to “identify a constructive way forward”, and that the talks are in line with “our longstanding commitment to freedom of navigation,” and reflects “the critical importance of this region to New Zealand’s economy.”

The meeting, hosted by the UK, included France, Germany, Canada, the United Arab Emirates and India.

The US did not attend the meeting.

The meeting wrapped up on Thursday (local time) with a demand for the “immediate and unconditional” reopening of the vital shipping route, but no immediate breakthrough.

“Iran is trying to hold the global economy hostage in the Strait of Hormuz. They must not prevail,” British foreign minister Yvette Cooper said in a statement.

“To that effect, partners today called for the immediate and unconditional reopening of the Strait and respect for the fundamental principles of freedom of navigation and the law of the sea,” she added.

The strait has been virtually closed since the US-Israeli war against Iran started on February 28, impacting global supplies of important commodities including oil, liquid natural gas, and fertiliser.

That has led to a sharp rise in energy prices.

The foreign ministers and representatives who joined the call discussed a range of areas of “possible collective, coordinated, action,” Cooper added.

This could include increased diplomatic pressure, including through the UN, as well as possible sanctions, she said.

The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) meanwhile called Thursday for the UN Security Council to authorise the use of force to protect the key waterway.

Bahrain has proposed a draft resolution that would greenlight states to use “all necessary means” to assure free transit through the Strait of Hormuz.

However, the measure has divided the 15-member Security Council, with Russia, China and France — who each hold veto privileges — all voicing strong objections.

Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajanialso, who joined the virtual talks, called for a “humanitarian corridor” for fertiliser and other essentials through the strait to avoid a food disaster in Africa.

Cooper earlier slammed Iran’s “recklessness” over the strait as she kicked off the virtual meeting.

She said Iran’s blockade of the waterway was “hitting our global economic security”.

Around a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the strait in peacetime.

A total of 37 countries have signed a statement, first published last month, expressing “readiness to contribute to appropriate efforts to ensure safe passage through” the shipping lane.

Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the Netherlands are among those to have signed it.

The United States, China, and most Middle Eastern countries have not, according to a list provided by the UK government.

‘Unrealistic’

A spokesperson for the French foreign ministry said securing the Strait of Hormuz could “only take place once the intense phase of the bombing is over”.

French President Emmanuel Macron, speaking on a visit to South Korea, said a military operation to liberate the Strait of Hormuz was “unrealistic”, while lamenting Trump’s differing daily statements on the Iran war and NATO.

“There are those who advocate for the liberation of the Strait of Hormuz by force through a military operation, a position sometimes expressed by the United States,” Macron said.

“I say sometimes because it has varied, it is never the option we have chosen and we consider it unrealistic,” he said.

The virtual meeting hosted by Britain came after Trump urged oil-importing nations to show “courage” and seize the narrow strait.

“The countries of the world that … receive oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage,” Trump said in a prime-time address late Wednesday.

“Just take it, protect it, use it for yourselves,” he added.

Trump has said he would consider a ceasefire only when Hormuz is “free and clear”.

Many countries have however insisted any operation to protect seafarers using the strait could only come after a ceasefire.

“We are also convening military planners to look at how we marshal our collective defensive military capabilities, including looking at issues such as de-mining,” Cooper told Thursday’s meeting.

The channel normally sees around 120 daily transits, according to shipping industry intelligence site Lloyd’s List.

But since March 1, commodities carriers have made just 225 crossings, according to maritime intelligence firm Kpler, a 94-percent decrease on peacetime.

-AFP

(Additional reporting by RNZ)

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Energy Sector – Minister Brown takes up energy portfolio at critical time

April 2, 2026

Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa

Energy Resources Aotearoa welcomes the re-appointment of Hon Simeon Brown as Minister for Energy and acknowledges the significant contribution of the outgoing Minister, Hon Simon Watts.
Chief Executive John Carnegie said the incoming Minister takes on the portfolio at a critical time.
“Over the past year, the context has shifted. The Prime Minister says energy is the dominant issue for the remainder of this year – we could not agree more.”
Carnegie says New Zealand is now clearly in the middle of a generational energy challenge, with global pressures and domestic constraints combining to tighten supply and drive up costs.
“We thank Minister Watts for his action-focused leadership during a period where the importance of energy security and affordability is in sharp focus.
The priority for the portfolio going forward is clear: continuing on the trajectory toward secure, abundant, affordable energy for New Zealand homes and businesses.
Gas remains undersupplied, and electricity prices have not eased to levels that provide comfort to consumers or certainty for industry.
With the decline of key domestic supply, fuel sources and limited replacement capacity in the short term, the system is increasingly exposed.”
Looking ahead, Carnegie says the focus must be on enabling investment and building capacity across the system to deliver resilience.
“We need to move beyond managing scarcity crisis by crisis, and toward enabling the fuels required to keep our economy humming. 
That means reducing red tape while supporting new generation, increased firming capacity, and enabling the infrastructure and fuels required to bring it online.
Without using all domestic resources available to us, New Zealand will continue to experience high prices and deindustrialisation. This should not be acceptable to any government, or indeed any voter.
New Zealand needs an energy system approach that focuses on security and affordability as the foundations for long-term economic growth, and we look forward to working with the new Minister to drive progress toward this.”

MIL OSI

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Much-needed relief for hospitality businesses in time for Easter

April 2, 2026

Source: New Zealand Government

A member’s bill reforming alcohol laws comes into force at midnight tonight, providing much-needed regulatory relief and clarity for the hospitality sector just in time for the Easter long weekend, says Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee.

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Sales on Anzac Day Morning, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day) Amendment Bill, put forward by Hon. Kieran McAnulty, received Royal Assent today.

“As the Minister responsible for the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act, I want to provide clear guidance to hospitality businesses about what this change means in practice,” says Mrs McKee.

The Ministry of Justice has published guidance on their website for the benefit of those involved in the alcohol regulatory system. 

“Thanks to this law, and a common-sense amendment from ACT MP Cameron Luxton, bars and pubs will no longer be forced to close at midnight tonight, or wait until 12.01am on Saturday morning to open.

“This is a practical fix that removes confusion and inconsistency between alcohol laws and shop trading restrictions.

“It also removes outdated requirements at restaurants and cafes for customers to order a ‘substantial meal’, and restrictions preventing alcohol from being served more than an hour before or after eating.

“Businesses that hold an on-licence can now operate under their normal licence conditions across Good Friday and Easter Sunday, as well as Anzac Day morning and Christmas Day.

“We are aware of some businesses that have been planning to open or host events this weekend, but have had concerns raised about whether doing so would be lawful, or whether they can even promote events that are conditional on the law being passed.

“This change makes it clear: those businesses can now proceed with confidence that they can operate under their normal licence conditions, without fear of falling foul of the law.

“Regulatory agencies are aware of the changes and will apply the new law from midnight tonight.

“Any business experiencing difficulties or being advised otherwise is encouraged to contact my office directly via my email N.McKee@ministers.govt.nz which will be monitored over the weekend.”

Mrs McKee says the change provides long-overdue certainty for the sector.

“This is huge for hospitality, especially after a rough few years, and something I’ve been keen to see fixed for some time.

“In practical terms, it means treating Kiwis like adults. These days are important to many New Zealanders, but people should be free to recognise them in their own way.

“No business will be forced to open, and no one will be required to drink. This is about restoring choice.”

ACT MP Cameron Luxton was responsible for the amendment ensuring bars and pubs can continue trading past midnight.

“I put forward this amendment after realising that the opening night of Christchurch’s new Te Kaha Stadium would have been cut short by outdated alcohol laws on Anzac weekend,” says Mr Luxton.

“This change will also benefit hospitality businesses on other restricted trading days, including Good Friday and Easter Sunday this weekend.

“Taxpayers and Christchurch ratepayers have invested hundreds of millions of dollars into this stadium, in part to drive economic activity and showcase the city.

“It would have made no sense to undermine that opportunity during the opening weekend, when 10 Super Rugby teams and tens of thousands of supporters will be in town, simply because the day after opening falls on Anzac Day.”

Mrs McKee says the change will also improve public safety.

“The last thing we want is large numbers of people being pushed out onto the streets all at once at midnight. That creates unnecessary risk, particularly with large crowds and international visitors who may not understand what’s going on.

“Allowing venues to operate under their normal trading hours means people can leave gradually and safely, rather than all at once.

“This is a good example of MPs across Parliament working together to fix what matters and solve practical problems for New Zealanders. I hope to see more of this.”

Notes to editors:

  • The Ministry of Justice has published the attached fact sheet here: https://www.justice.govt.nz/about/news-and-media/news/changes-to-alcohol-sales-on-restricted-trading-days/
  • As originally drafted, Kieran McAnulty’s member’s bill would allow businesses to sell alcohol under their normal licence conditions every day of the year – but only if their principal business is selling food (i.e. restaurants and cafes). Many bars and pubs don’t fit this requirement and therefore would be forced to remain closed under separate Shop Trading Hours Act restrictions relating to alcohol. Cameron Luxton’s amendment overrides the Shop Trading Hours Act restrictions in this narrow situation.

MIL OSI

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Keeping children in classrooms and supporting schools through fuel challenges

April 2, 2026

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government’s priority is keeping schools open, students in classrooms and continuing to raise achievement as the country navigates fuel supply challenges, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

“The lockdowns during the pandemic were incredibly damaging to student engagement. We are committed to doing everything we can to not repeat that experience for families again,” Ms Stanford says.

“Schools will face a range of different challenges depending on their individual circumstances. I directed the Ministry of Education to contact every single school by the end of the week so we have a clear understanding of what those challenges are so we can respond. 

“We can then tailor solutions to schools in a highly targeted way so they remain open and children are in the classroom learning. Our focus is on minimising disruption, ensuring clear and frequent communication, and providing timely, targeted, temporary support where needed. 

“Specifically, I have directed officials to:

  • Build a clear national picture of fuel use and operational impacts across the education system.
  • Check in with the early learning sector this week to understand current awareness and preparedness and to inform planning.
  • Use real-time information to identify pressures early and respond quickly where support is needed.
  • Engage with suppliers to understand fuel impacts on essential services, such as school lunches, attendance services, and transport.
  • Develop and stress-test plans across a range of critical services, including the school bus network and Specialised School Transport Assistance, to help maintain access to education.
  • Work alongside the Rural Schools Association and wider sector groups to understand the specific challenges facing rural and remote communities.
  • Closely monitor fuel availability for schools that rely on diesel boilers, noting that only a small number of schools are affected, and work directly with those schools to identify what they need to ensure sites remain appropriately heated, including through the winter period.

“I want to thank schools, parents and communities for prioritising education during a difficult time. We are seeing minimal changes to attendance at this stage and will continue to keep a close eye on this.

“There has been a strong willingness to work together, between schools, families, providers, and communities, and that collaboration is making a difference. 

“Already, 56 percent of the schools contacted have started to plan or have already planned responses to any change in the fuel situation. Additionally, 58 percent have taken steps to explore how they can increase their fuel efficiency.

“I will have more to say on our response for education once we have concluded discussions with all schools. The Ministry will continue to work with wider government so that we are developing practical solutions that work for communities.”

MIL OSI

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Fast-track approved project could deliver New Zealand’s largest wind farm

April 2, 2026

Source: New Zealand Government

Fast-track approval has been granted for New Zealand’s largest wind farm project. 

Contact Energy lodged a substantive application for the Southland Windfarm in August 2025. The proposed wind farm will be developed across 58km² of privately owned land in eastern Southland, about 30km southeast of Gore.

“Approval has taken around 5 months following the commencement of an expert panel,” Mr Bishop says.  

“This project, with national benefits, will significantly increase the amount of power supplied to the national grid.

“The wind farm will generate up to 380 megawatts (MW) and provide power for up to 150,000 households and includes 55 wind turbines, each up to approximately 7MW in capacity.

Mr Jones said the project would inject $13.5 million into the local economy and create up to 300 jobs during construction. Once commissioned, it would employ about 10 to 14 full-time equivalent staff to operate the wind farm. 

“The real significance of this infrastructure lies in the ability to unlock further investment and attract new industry to the region. 

“The Fast Track process is about cutting through unnecessary delays to unlock the projects that matter. It gives regions the certainty and momentum they need to create jobs and drive long-term economic growth.” Mr Jones said.

Energy Minister Simon Watts says the project will make a significant contribution to New Zealand’s energy future.

“As New Zealand’s biggest windfarm to date, the Southland project will play an important part in achieving this Government’s vision of reliable, affordable and abundant energy supply for New Zealanders,” Mr Watts says.

“More generation in the system will help keep downward pressure on prices and shore up security of supply.”

“In addition to the turbines, a wind farm substation, and access roads, the project’s second major component involved grid connection work – including constructing the transmission lines needed to connect the wind farm to the Transpower National Grid,” Mr Bishop says. 

“It’s worth noting this project, in an earlier form, was previously declined resource consent after years of process, largely due to concerns about landscape and visual effects on the surrounding rural environment. 

“That is exactly the kind of outcome New Zealanders have been frustrated with, where projects of clear national benefit get tied up or turned down after long, uncertain processes. 

“Fast-track is changing that by providing a more balanced, timely, and effects-based pathway to get critical infrastructure like renewable energy projects built.”

For more information about the project: Southland Wind Farm 

Fast-track by the numbers: 
•    15 projects approved by expert panels. 
•    22 projects with expert panels appointed. 
•    43 projects currently progressing through the Fast-track process. 
•    39 projects have been referred to Fast-track by the Minister for Infrastructure. 
•    149 projects are listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act, meaning they can apply for Fast-track approval. 
•    On average, it has taken 128 working days for decisions on substantive applications from when officials determine an application is complete and in-scope. 
Fast-track projects approved by expert panels: 
•    Arataki [Housing/Land]  
•    Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]  
•    Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2 [Housing/Land] 
•    Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block [Mining/Quarrying] 
•    Green Steel [Infrastructure] 
•    Homestead Bay [Housing/Land] 
•    Kings Quarry Expansion – Stages 2 and 3 [Mining/Quarrying] 
•    Maitahi Village [Housing/Land] 
•    Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing/Land] 
•    Rangitoopuni [Housing/Land] 
•    Southland Wind Farm [Renewable energy]
•    Sunfield [Housing/Land] 
•    Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable energy] 
•    Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 [Infrastructure] 
•    Waihi North [Mining/Quarrying] 
 
Expert panels have been appointed for: 
•    Ashbourne 
•    Ayrburn Screen Hub  
•    Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project  
•    Bream Bay Sand Extraction Project
•    Central and Southern Block Mining Project
•    Delmore
•    Haldon Solar Farm 
•    Hananui Aquaculture Project 
•    Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme 
•    Lake Pūkaki Hydro Storage and Dam Resilience Works 
•    Mahinerangi Wind Farm 
•    North West Rapid Transit
•    Pound Road Industrial Development 
•    Ryans Road Industrial Development 
•    State Highway 1 North Canterbury – Woodend Bypass Project (Belfast to Pegasus)
•    Stella Passage Development
•    The Downtown Carpark Redevelopment – Te Pūmanawa o Tāmaki Haldon Solar Farm 
•    The Point Mission Bay 
•    The Point Solar Farm 
•    Waitaha Hydro 
•    Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project
•    Wellington International Airport Southern Seawall Renewal 

MIL OSI

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Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke skips IMF event in Washington DC, cites price of fuel

April 4, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke. Lillian Hanly

Te Pāti Māori MP and the youngest New Zealand politician, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, has decided against attending an International Monetary Fund event in Washington DC due to global events and the struggle for people at home to pay for fuel.

She said she was honoured to be part of the event, but “that’s not where our priorities are at the moment”.

Maipi-Clarke was invited to participate in the inaugural cohort of the Young Global Parliamentarians Initiative, bringing together 12 young legislators from around the world.

It would look at redefining the relationship between parliaments and global economic institutions.

Maipi-Clarke had planned to attend but questioned how she could travel internationally knowing communities in New Zealand “can’t even afford to get down the road” with fuel prices as they were.

“It’s exciting that we’re having these conversations around what does stabilising our economies can look like, specifically for indigenous peoples, but right now, we have to be really real with ourselves.

“It’s often that indigenous peoples are the sacrifice to global economies, whether that be their resources, their land, their whenua, and often their labour,” she said.

What was going on in Iran and around the world, and how it was impacting fuel prices made her think twice.

Instead of travelling, she hosted an event in partnership with ANZ Bank for wāhine māori who owned small businesses on how they could get better resources and grow the Māori economy.

“Before we go to that international scale, I think we need to really focus on here at home, and so that’s been a really cool kaupapa to start and ignite,” she said.

Te Pāti Māori had been calling for “urgent key necessities” to be considered by the government to intervene now.

She said the party had looked at what previous governments had done in times of crisis, suggesting things like “freezing the RUCs, reducing GST off fuel, taking tax off fuel”, and also providing free transport and subsidies for rural communities and essential workers.

“Just some short term things that we could assist with right now, rather than $50,” she said, in reference to the government’s move to provide an extra $50 a week for low-to-middle-income workers with children.

This week the government also increased mileage rates for home and community support workers.

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Life-saving services need priority in fuel plan, aviation sector says

April 2, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

The aviation sector is calling for a specific crisis plan around fuel. Supplied / Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust

The Aviation Industry Association says life-preserving services such as aeromedical, search and rescue, and firefighting need to be prioritised as part of the government’s fuel response plan.

The aviation sector has been calling for a specific crisis plan around fuel for flying as the prices of jet fuel and Avgas have shot up as conflict continues in the Middle East.

Chief executive Simon Wallace said since the beginning of March jet fuel had gone up about 70 percent – from around $1.60 to $2.80 a litre – and Avgas had increased around 100 percent, from around $2.60 to $5.00.

He said those fuel increases needed to be able to be passed back to the agencies they were contracted by.

Simon Wallace. RNZ / Edward O’Driscoll

“This is why the association has really emphasised the importance of all these services, because actually, as operators, they can’t absorb these costs and they can’t continue to provide these services if they are not reimbursed,” he said.

“So we don’t want these services to be a threat and provided they are prioritised in the fuel plan and they’re at the top of the list then these services will be maintained.”

Wallace said they were working closely with agencies.

“Fire and Emergency New Zealand has allowed our operators – like our helicopter operators, for example – to be able to impose a fuel surcharge, which they have to do because of the increases.”

Another area of aviation they wanted to see the government prioritise was agriculture, Wallace said. He said between March and May was a critical time for top dressers putting fertiliser down.

“So it’s really important that they can do that, that they have access to fuel.”

He said it was also important for animal welfare.

“I think the concern for the Aviation Industry Association is that a lot of the smaller operators, particularly agriculture, but also the emergency services, are not overlooked in the development of an aviation-specific plan,” he said.

“We acknowledge the real importance of international air connections, and they are vital not only for passengers and cargo, but we have domestic aviation services which connect the country to itself, and these need to be part of any prioritisation. “

Meanwhile on Morning Report on Thursday morning, Associate Transport Minister James Meager said he was not concerned yet about the jet fuel supply in New Zealand.

New Zealand’s jet fuel stocks have dropped since the last update, leaving about 46 days of cover.

Meager said that was within the normal range, and it was natural that the supply could go down temporarily while the country waited for more fuel to arrive.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/06/am-edition-top-10-politics-articles-on-livenews-co-nz-for-april-6-2026-full-text/

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Pope’s message for peace: ‘The Church cannot remain silent when power is used without moral responsibility’

Asia Pacific Report

As tensions rose ahead of Easter, US President Donald Trump publicly criticised Pope Leo XIV, accusing the pontiff of “interfering in political matters he does not fully understand”.

During a rally, Trump reportedly said: “The Vatican should focus on religion, not tell strong nations how they should defend themselves. America will always put its security first.”

The remarks quickly drew global attention and prompted a calm but firm response from the Pope.

Speaking at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV responded: “The Church cannot remain silent when power is used without moral responsibility. Faith must guide humanity toward peace, not justify conflict.”

Following the exchange of statements, many Catholic faithful around the world also began voicing their opinions.

Many believers expressed support for the message of peace and moral responsibility emphasised by Pope Leo XIV, arguing that faith should be used to bring people together and promote peace, rather than to justify conflict.

Across religious forums and social media platforms, Catholics called on political leaders to respect the spiritual role of the Church, while also encouraging dialogue between politics and religion to be conducted with humility, reconciliation, and mutual respect.

Many also expressed hope that the Pope’s message would continue to inspire efforts toward peace around the world.

New Zealand celebrates the Easter Vigil at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Auckland Tāmaki Makaurau yesterday. Image: Asia Pacific Report

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/06/popes-message-for-peace-the-church-cannot-remain-silent-when-power-is-used-without-moral-responsibility/

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Eugene Doyle: Who will pay billions in reparations to Iran? We will

COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

In the coming years, if Iran survives as a sovereign state and retains control over the Strait of Hormuz, countries like Australia, New Zealand, the UK, South Korea and Japan will be made to pay hundreds of billions of dollars in reparations for the US-Israeli war on Iran.

For this to come to pass, Iran must fight the aggressors to a standstill and ensure they can impose, if necessary, a chokehold on the oil, gas and fertilisers vital to the global economy.

So, when next you see an image of spectacular US-Israeli violence, think this: “I might have to pay for that”.

There is no doubt that US-Israel has succeeded in setting fire to Iran, inflicting a heavy death toll, and hundreds of billions of dollars in damages to the civilian infrastructure of the country.

As the Leader of the so-called “Free World” said this week: the aim is to bomb Iran back to the Stone Age.

The US and Israel have dropped well over 15,000 huge bombs and missiles on Iran. According to the United Nations, by March 17 the US and Israel had already destroyed 54,000 civilian homes.

Destruction now far worse
The destruction is now far worse, approaching 100,000 structures. By the end of March hundreds of schools, dozens of universities, much of the civilian infrastructure including major bridges, energy systems and cultural sites had been attacked by the Americans and Israelis. Does anyone still believe they have come to Iran to free the people?

Who should pay for reconstruction? The Iranian government is clear: we should — because this immense crime was, from their perspective, aided and abetted by Australia, the UK, EU, New Zealand and others, who, as with the genocide in Gaza, did nothing meaningful to stop it.

According to Lloyds, Iran has now set up a toll booth at the Strait of Hormuz — referred to by some as “The Aya-Toll-a Booth” — to tax ships that pass through the strait. It may be questionable under the Law of the Sea but this would be to quibble after the US-Israelis blitzkrieg.

The Majlis (Iranian Parliament) is finalising a law declaring Iranian “sovereignty, control and oversight” of the Strait, something it had never asserted before. The bill introduces a system of transit fees for commercial vessels passing the Hormuz Strait, effectively imposing a tax of up to $2 million per vessel that wishes to pass.

A large oil tanker has a cargo worth about $200 million so the fee is not excessive. Multiply that by more than 100 ship movements per day under peacetime conditions and Iran could be in receipt of tens of billions of dollars per year.

Given the rogue states who launched this war will never submit to international law or reparations it seems an elegant solution.

Under the system, ships must now provide their International Maritime Organisation (IMO) number, cargo manifest, crew names, ownership details and destination before Iran will issue a safe passage clearance. The law bans vessels from the US, Israel, and their allies, while granting safe transit to China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Iraq, Bangladesh and other friendly nations.

Iran needs to win
For this to fully come to fruition, Iran needs to win.

Professor Robert Pape, a top US expert on warfare, based at the University of Chicago, says Iran will likely emerge from this terrible war as a super-power.  Many analysts, such as Colonel Daniel Davis, Mark Sleboda, Annelle Sheline, and Professor John Mearsheimer, now see an Iranian victory as likely.

Professor Pape himself has run simulations of US-Iran wars for decades and is clear: “Trump made a huge mistake.”

Professor Pape, who was one of the prime architects of the US Air Force’s war curriculum, told journalist Mahmoud Ansari that Trump and others are currently confusing tactical success with strategic outcomes. For the moment, the Americans and Israelis are enjoying success after success: killing leaders and school girls, blowing stuff up and so on.

“That can be mesmerising, and cause this illusion of precision control but it is not the same thing as a strategic victory. Iran before the war controlled 4 percent of the world’s oil. Twenty-six days later they control 20 percent of the world’s oil.”

As Trita Parsi of the Quincy Institute pointed out this week, Denmark charged transit fees for 400 years for vessels to pass through the Øresund Strait into and out of the Baltic. Panama, Egypt and Turkey all charge transit fees.

The countries who played the starring supporting roles in the genocide in Gaza — Germany, UK, Australia — and supported Israel and America in their rampages across the Middle East for decades may — if they are lucky — get access to the Gulf again but may have to pay a heavy price for their role in the destruction of the lives of tens of millions of people.

NZ awaits eventual negotiations
The energy security of a minor henchman like New Zealand will have to await eventual negotiations between its major suppliers — South Korea and Singapore — and Iran.

Bloodied but as yet unbowed, Iran knows it can — and must — rise like the Phoenix from the ashes.

In the Iranian version of the Phoenix tradition — reaching back thousands of years —  the Phoenix (Simurgh in Farsi) must face death and destruction before being reborn and revitalised.

The Simurgh is so ancient it possesses the wisdom of the ages: in other words it knows how to survive calamities that would consume others. This is called civilisational resilience and it is baked into the DNA of the Iranian people.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/04/05/eugene-doyle-who-will-pay-billions-in-reparations-to-iran-we-will/

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Third straight win for Wellington Phoenix men in A-League under coach Chris Greenacre

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sander Kartum of the Phoenix (centre) celebrates scoring a goal with teammates during the A-League Men’s Round 23 match between Melbourne Victory and the Wellington Phoenix. AAP / Photosport

The Wellington Phoenix men have recorded their third successive win in the men’s A-League with a late goal sealing the points against the third placed Melbourne Victory.

Sander Kartum scored in the 89th minute for Wellington during the clash in Melbourne.

Captain Alex Rufer said it was a huge result to keep their hopes alive for the finals.

He said the team is making excellent progress under coach Chris Greenacre who took the reins mid season from Giancarlo Italiano.

“I’m so proud of the team and how hard we worked, I’m really happy,” Rufer told SkySport.

“Especially in the context of our season and where things have been.”

Rufer said the Phoenix men have even better performances to come.

“We really made sure that we came with strong intensity. In the first half we were the team and we didn’t reward ourselves.”

Strong defence was a feature for the visitors, while teenager Luke Brooke-Smith had a chance to extend the lead in the final minutes with an easy chance in front of goal.

But his attempt just missed its target.

Last week the Phoenix beat Brisbane Roar 2-1, and before that they beat Perth Glory 2-0 in mid March.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/05/third-straight-win-for-wellington-phoenix-men-in-a-league-under-coach-chris-greenacre/

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NRL: NZ Warriors v Cronulla Sharks at Sydney’s Ocean Protect Stadium

Source: Radio New Zealand

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak scores for the Warriors during the match against Cronulla-Sutherland at Ocean Protect Stadium www.photosport.nz / Izhar Khan

Wing Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has scored a hattrick of tries, but could not prevent his NZ Warriors suffering back-to-back defeats, falling 36-22 to Cronulla Sharks at Sydney’s Ocean Protect Stadium.

After crashing to Wests Tigers last week, the Warriors hoped to regroup on the road and were off to a promising start, but fell off the pace midway through the first half, conceding three consecutive tries to hand over momentum.

Watene-Zelezniak gave them the early lead, but Sharks fullback Will Kennedy scored twice within four minutes to turn the tide, then centre KL Iro compounded their problems.

Watene-Zelezniak scored again before halftime, as Cronulla led 24-10 at the break, and then again immediately afterwards to rekindle some hope of a comeback, but they not continue the rally.

Erin Clark gathered a consolation penalty try in the dying moments, after he was impeded in his chase for a loose ball behind the goal-line, but the Warriors lost centre Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (head) and five-eighth Luke Metcalf (hamstring) in quick succession near the end.

The Warriors now face archrivals Melbourne Storm, coming off three straight losses and a 50-point horror show against Penrith Panthers over the weekend.

Follow the live action here:

Team lists

Warriors: 1. Taine Tuaupiki, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 4. Adam Pompey, 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, 6. Luke Metcalf, 7. Tanah Boyd, 8. James Fisher-Harris, 9. Wayde Egan, 10. Jackson Ford, 11. Leka Halasima, 12. Jacob Laban, 13. Erin Clark

Interchange: 14. Sam Healey, 15. Marata Niukore, 16. Demitric Vaimauga, 17. Tanner Stowers-Smith, 18. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 20. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava

Sharks: 1. Will Kennedy, 2. Sione Katoa, 3. Jesse Ramien, 4. KL Iro, 5. Sam Stonestreet, 6. Braydon Trindall, 7. Nicho Hynes, 8. Addin Fonua-Blake, 9. Blayke Brailey, 10. Tony Rudolf, 11. Billy Burns, 12. Teig Wilton, 13. Jesse Colquhoun

Interchange: 14. Sione Talakai, 15. Tom Hazelton, 16. Oregon Kaufusi, 18. Mawene Hiroti, 19. Hohepa Puru, 22. Briton Nikora

Luke Metcalf and Nicho Hynes will face off, when Warriors take on Sharks. Liam Swiggs / RNZ

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/05/nrl-nz-warriors-v-cronulla-sharks-at-sydneys-ocean-protect-stadium/

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AM Edition: Top 10 Security Intel Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for April 5, 2026 – Full Text

AM Edition: Here are the top 10 security intelligence articles on LiveNews.co.nz for April 5, 2026 – Full Text

I love crime heroines – but Kay Scarpetta leaves me cold

April 5, 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Dr Kay Scarpetta, chief medical examiner of the Commonwealth of Virginia, made her fictional debut in Patricia Cornwell’s first crime novel, Postmortem, published in 1990. Cornwell had been both a police reporter and a morgue assistant. And her character was inspired by a real medical examiner she worked with.

Postmortem won a slew of crime fiction awards, including an Edgar and the French Prix du Roman d’Aventure. It was a riveting read – if you surfed the questionable prose style. I applauded the arrival of a female forensic specialist.

Two years after her debut, in 1992, I saw Cornwell in Melbourne where she was promoting the third Scarpetta book, All That Remains. Blonde and blue-eyed, barely over five foot three, she was the spitting image of her protagonist, as described in the books – and just as frosty.

Nicole Kidman as Kay Scarpetta with Jamie Lee Curtis as her sister, Dorothy.

Amazon Prime

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/05/i-love-crime-heroines-but-kay-scarpetta-leaves-me-cold/

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Taranaki-born forward to feature in NCAA men’s championship decider

Source: Radio New Zealand

Oscar Goodman reacts with teammates after defeating the Arizona Wildcats in the 2026 NCAA men’s basketball tournament. PATRICK SMITH

Kiwi forward Oscar Goodman’s Michigan Wolverines has beaten Arizona 91-73 to advance to the final of the NCAA men’s basketball championship.

Goodman, 19, is in line to become just the second New Zealander to win a men’s title when Michigan faces UConn for the national crown.

Only Jack Salt with Virginia in 2019 has previously achieved the feat.

The 2.01m Goodman, who was born in Ōpunake, grabbed one rebound but missed two free throws during his limited time on court at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Michigan overpowered Arizona as the Wolverines opened up an early lead and were never really challenged.

The final will be played on Tuesday.

In the women’s NCAA final, UCLA’s Charlisse Ledger-Walker is on the verge of making history for New Zealand.

No Kiwi has ever won a women’s title, though Jillian Harmon and Claire Bodensteiner were runners-up with Stanford in 2008, before playing for Tall Ferns at the Beijing Olympics a couple of months later.

– RNZ

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/05/taranaki-born-forward-to-feature-in-ncaa-mens-championship-decider/

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Money tips from ‘Māori Millionaire’ founder: How to get out of survival mode

Source: Radio New Zealand

Te Kahukura Boynton says the challenges might be real, but when we can get a good focus on the problems we need to tackle, we can become good at solutions. Supplied by Te Kahukura Boynton

Te Kahukura Boynton of Māori Millionaire is on a mission to bridge the wealth gap by shining a light on how to make better money decisions more clearly – even when times are tough.

The entrepreneur, speaker, podcaster, financial influencer, and author of Māori Millionaire: A beginner’s Guide to Building Better Money Habits talked with Stacey Morrison about using her platform to help people build better financial literacy, and how people can get started.

“My saying recently is that you can’t financial-literacy your way out of survival mode”, Boynton says.

“Traditional money advice, it doesn’t address the root causes for why people actually make the money decisions that they make – over 80 percent of the time we’re actually making emotional decisions when it comes to money.”

“What I see a lot in the financial industry is that people are told to just behave better, to have more willpower, to be more disciplined, but it doesn’t actually address why people make those money decisions.”

It can be hard to see a way forward that fits, or to even face looking at the problem, she says.

“I love that financial literacy is becoming more normalised to talk about and I see a lot of wins in this industry, but what I would love to see more of is trauma-informed financial literacy – actually addressing why do people make those decisions. Even if we’re not talking about colonisation at an individual level, things like physical abuse or emotional abuse, these things can leave abandonment wounds, or things that make you have a different relationship with money.”

“Back when I didn’t have much money, I would way rather spend a small amount of money to buy something that’s going to give me a quick dopamine fix, as opposed to putting that small amount of money towards something that’s going to help me long term. This is a direct result of not only colonisation, but even trauma that people have experienced, even if you’re not indigenous or if you’re not Māori.”

Recognising some of the things making money an uphill battle

Recognising money pitfalls is easier if we can identify the things at play influencing us, so we can make clearer decisions, Boynton says.

Penguin

“People want quick ways to give themselves a sense of relief, and especially in times of economic difficulties people are craving that – and so it’s much easier to buy something small to make an emotional money decision, as opposed to doing something that’s going to serve your long term self.

“In 2026 everything is designed to give us quick hits of dopamine – we have more people spending time on their phone. I read something recently that said I think it was like 80 percent of people play on their phones before they fall asleep and first thing in the morning. These are habits we haven’t seen before.

“So everything is designed to teach us that we need quick fixes of dopamine – we’re thinking short term more these days.”

Boynton says before she turned her financial situation she was making bad habits as a way of responding to stresses.

“I didn’t know how to manage my emotions. I was previously a drug addict, so I’d spend a lot of money on drugs if anything happened, or I would end up at the McDonald’s drive-through or I’d be at Kmart, because those were the only ways I knew to cope with my emotions. So telling me to just spend my money better to save more wasn’t actually going to help, because I didn’t have any tools to cope with my emotions other than to spend money to get relief.

“Especially for Māori, Pasifika, or lower income earners, they can carry a lot of shame when the only conversation is ‘spend less, invest more’, and it’s a very simple way of looking at it and it doesn’t address the inequities we see at a systems level. So my goal is that people are actually having a wider conversation, a deeper level conversation about why people make their money decisions, not just telling people to behave better.”

What does help?

RNZ / Quin Tauetau

The first step Boynton recommends is to start a money diary to build self-awareness about what prompts those decisions to buy things. It’s a simple tool, and she still finds it useful now.

“I would note down: What am I buying? How much am I spending? How does it make me feel? and Is this a good investment in myself? … colour coded green or red if it was yes or no … Does this have a positive return on my life or a negative return on my life?

“A lot of people, because they’re carrying shame they’ll do this exercise and then they’ll start having a lot of negative self talk: ‘I shouldn’t have done that’, ‘Why do I always do this?’ ‘I always have these bad habits’. But what I’d encourage people to do is just take note. We live in a very fast world, we have payWave, everything just moves so quickly. And we’ve become disconnected from our tinana – from our bodies.

“So what I’d encourage people to do is pause a little bit, so when you go to the supermarket, when you spend money, don’t just carry on as you would do, but just notice the feelings in your body. Do you feel a little bit of guilt when you buy things you know you probably shouldn’t? Do you feel excitement when you buy the designer things that you want, or you buy new clothes? Just notice the sensations in your body. What are you feeling?”

Then once a week she checks over her experiences from the week – what she calls her Sunday money reset, which helps her see positive next steps she can take.

“At the end of every week … I go back and I think ‘Okay, I notice that on Monday I went to the dairy, and I bought dah da dah da dah – and I actually didn’t need to do that if I just did my groceries on Sunday’.

“So if you have this reflective exercise once per week, when you’re starting to build these better money habits you can go: ‘Ok, I notice that I did that and I don’t really want to do that any more. What systems can I implement so that I don’t do this moving forward?’

“Then I would go … so this week I’m going to do all my meal prepping on Sunday, and I’m going to buy enough food for the week, so that I avoid going to the dairy. Or whatever it is for each person, everyone has different money habits.”

“A lot of people don’t realise how much money they actually spend or where it’s actually going, because …we live in a very fast world. It’s designed to go quickly, so just slowing down a little bit helps you to understand your money habits. Then when you have more self awareness, you can actually choose different habits.”

Unsplash/ Vitaly Gariev

Different challenges for different people

Each person has their own underlying tensions at play in how they might use money, Boynton says.

Some have a scarcity mindset, where they may have lots of feelings of guilt or panic associated with money. Some people are avoidant, feeling overwhelmed by money matters and finding it difficult to face or to start taking steps. We can experience different combinations of these at different times, Boynton says, as she has.

But what we should ideally want to build is what she calls a secure attachment approach to money:

“Where I’m at now and where most people would love to be is feeling secure when it comes to money. So I have a plan with my finances, I’m regularly checking in, I know my numbers, I know what’s coming in, what’s going out. I feel very secure, I feel very safe. I’ve got my safety net there if anything should happen, I’ve got insurance. I just feel on top of my money … and what it gives you is it gives you some breathing space.

“Back when I was worried all the time it felt like I was almost drowning all the time with all of it, and I couldn’t even get up out from the water to have a look and go ‘where are we headed now’.

“But now that I feel more secure I have more energy to focus on my business, I have more energy to focus on my hauora, my health. And that’s where most people want to get, is having a secure relationship with money.”

What about getting through the truly tight times?

123RF

Boynton says she recognises that for many households times are really tough at the moment with the cost of living crisis.

And that stress can be when we tend to fall back into our most chaotic money patterns, she says: “It’s completely understandable if you’re choosing between buying gas for the car or putting kai on the table.”

“But what I would do is be very mindful about your thoughts and what you’re putting your energy into.”

Spending a lot of time and energy absorbed in big picture things we can’t control and social media can sap our resources, she says.

“What I like to say is ‘I’m not the cost of living gods, I can’t control this – but what I can control is what I’m focusing on’. I started focusing on my business and what are the things within my control.”

One down to earth tip is focusing on our health during lean times: “When you are healthier you’re able to make better decisions,” she says.

“So making sure I’m not missing my morning walk or my morning exercise – which is free, so that I have a bit more energy … so that I just have a lot more mental head space to go ‘okay, what more can I focus on today’.”

Then you can put some thinking time into the challenges, having a look at your money situation and the pressures.

“You can go, okay my costs have increased $50 a week as a result of all of this, or $100 as a result of all of this. How can I bring in an extra $50 or $100 a week? And then you might go – actually, I could mow my neighbour’s lawns, or I could do this. Just coming up with random things …

“I like to do a mindmap. What is within my control, and what can I actually do about this? And when you start to think about solutions, your brain starts to come up with all of these cool ideas … and then you get to go through and …trial a few things. Not everything will work, but you can give it a crack and what that does is it builds your confidence.

“And – wow, I made $50 today. Wow, imagine if I made like $500 next week. You can get in that energy of ‘Cool, I can do something about this!’, and you can pull back your power.”

She also recommends not to keep reflexively looking at the progress of long-term investments like KiwiSaver or retirement plans regularly during times the market is chaotic, as it can create a sense of helplessness.

“Something I’ve heard a lot of people says is ‘I’ve logged in and I’ve lost $5000!’… If you log in and notice that there’s $5000 gone, that feels very overwhelming, that can cause a lot of anxiety.

“If it’s a long-term investment, I’m talking over 10 years, you’re looking at a long time horizon. Things like what’s going on right now are within reason – they do go up, they do go down, there’s actually nothing we can do about it. I’m in it for the long term.

“So what I would do is make sure that you are in the right fund… you can seek financial advice just to make sure it is in the right fund – so if say you’re wanting to buy a house you should make sure your financial advisor knows that.”

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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/2026/04/05/money-tips-from-maori-millionaire-founder-how-to-get-out-of-survival-mode/

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UK royal family’s dilemma over Andrew’s daughters

Source: Radio New Zealand

The downfall of the former prince Andrew has left the British monarchy with a right royal headache — how to handle his daughters caught up in the scandal of US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The uncertain future of princesses Beatrice, 37, and Eugenie, 36, the children of Andrew — now known as Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor — and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, has filled the British press in recent weeks.

Andrew, the second of the late queen Elizabeth II’s three sons and brother to King Charles III, was arrested in mid-February amid new revelations of his ties to the late billionaire Epstein.

He was questioned for hours at a police station on suspicion of misconduct in public office during his decade-long role as a UK trade envoy. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied any wrongdoing, and has not been charged, but remains under police caution.

“We can now also confirm that we are providing early investigative advice to Thames Valley Police in relation to” Mountbatten-Windsor, prosecutors told AFP on Thursday.

Andrew was stripped of his royal titles in October by the king amid the growing scandal around Epstein, who died in prison in 2019.

And while his daughters are not active members of the royal family, Buckingham Palace has made it clear they retain their titles as princesses.

They have always been seen as close to the king’s two sons, heir Prince William and Prince Harry, and were part of the royal family’s inner circle.

In December, they attended the family’s traditional Christmas church service on the eastern Sandringham estate even though their parents were not invited.

But the two women and their young families would not be at Windsor this weekend for the traditional Easter gathering, a royal source confirmed to AFP.

The two had made alternative plans, but will be seen at future family celebrations, the source added.

“They want to avoid any association with them, as the York brand has become toxic,” said royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams.

New emails released in January showed Andrew remained in contact with Epstein long after the American’s conviction for trafficking and sex with a minor.

He also appeared to have shared sensitive UK information with Epstein such as trade documents.

The documents also revealed the extent of the ties between Epstein and Ferguson, with the princesses’ names appearing in numerous emails, although there is no suggestion of any wrongdoing by them.

In one of the documents, Epstein writes that “Ferg and the two girls” came to visit him, less than a week after he was freed from prison in 2009, following a conviction for soliciting a minor for prostitution.

In light of these new revelations “hard questions will need to be asked”, said royal expert Ed Owens.

“If it is shown that they have benefited from an elite network, that was partially introduced to them by Jeffrey Epstein… this is problematic,” said Owens.

Andrew biographer Andrew Lownie said he believed the sisters are “deeply implicated” rather than “collateral damage”, highlighting a 2010 incident in which Fergie was secretly filmed by a tabloid selling access to Andrew.

“This was a family business. The girls were taken on these taxpayer-funded trips,” he said.

“They’ve built up a very useful contact book which they are exploiting to this day.”

Both women have successful careers. Beatrice was vice president of strategic partnerships at Afiniti, an AI technology company, for a decade, and has now set up her own advisory group.

Eugenie is a director at Hauser & Wirth contemporary art gallery in London. But last month she quit her role as a patron for the Anti-Slavery International charity.

Both Lownie and Owens believe the royal family must distance itself from the two women.

Their hybrid status “one foot in the monarchy, one foot out” endangers the entire Windsor family, said Owens.

Fitzwilliams added: “We don’t know what might come up next. There might be new scandals”.

Lownie agreed. “There are scandals still in their cupboard” waiting to be exposed, he said.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/05/uk-royal-familys-dilemma-over-andrews-daughters/