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Keeping patients at the centre on World Cancer Day

Source: New Zealand Government

Health Minister Simeon Brown says World Cancer Day is a chance to highlight the progress made to strengthen cancer care across New Zealand, with patients at the heart of every decision. 

“Cancer affects every New Zealander, with thousands of Kiwis diagnosed every year. On World Cancer Day, we acknowledge everyone impacted by cancer – patients, families, clinicians, and communities,” Mr Brown says.

“Over the last two years, we have taken action to improve cancer outcomes for New Zealanders. We’ve focused on earlier detection, faster access to care, and ensuring patients can benefit from modern medicines and world-class treatment.

“Bringing care closer to home has been an important focus. The newly opened Taranaki Cancer Centre is a great example. Since opening late last year, it is now treating radiation oncology patients who previously had to travel to Palmerston North for weeks at a time. Since December, 460 treatments have been delivered locally, for cancers including lung, prostate, breast, and gynaecological diseases.”

Over the last two years, the Government has delivered a series of initiatives to strengthen cancer services and improve outcomes, including:

  • Funding 33 new cancer medicines through a $604 million Pharmac investment, giving patients access to the latest and most effective treatments.
  • Expanding breast screening to women aged 70–74, enabling thousands more women to benefit from early detection.
  • Progressively lowering the bowel screening age to match Australia with 58 as the first step, improving early detection and saving lives.
  • Establishing the Faster Cancer Treatment target, ensuring patients access specialist assessment and treatment sooner.
  • Investing in critical cancer infrastructure, including new LINAC machines and upgraded treatment facilities.
  • Expanding stem cell transplant services to improve access and reduce delays.
  • Commencing work on New Zealand’s first Cervical Cancer Elimination Strategy.
  • Investing in the cancer workforce, supporting clinicians to deliver timely, quality care.
  • Refreshing the Cancer Action Plan (2019–2029) to ensure the system is well-positioned for the future.

“These actions are about improving the experience and outcomes for people living with cancer – reducing wait times, improving access to treatment, and ensuring Kiwis receive the best care no matter where they live.

“We will continue to keep patients at the centre of everything we do, building on the progress of the past three years to deliver faster, fairer, and more effective cancer care for all New Zealanders,” Mr Brown says.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/keeping-patients-at-the-centre-on-world-cancer-day/

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‘Excitement’ over potential for testing cancer drugs on lab-grown tumours at Auckland Uni

Source: Radio New Zealand

With samples taken from patients, Dr Hossein Jahedi is building a collection of tiny, fleshy lumps of cancer. Supplied / University of Auckland

A project at the cutting edge of cancer research hopes to build a collection of tiny lab-grown tumours at the University of Auckland.

Smaller than a grain of sand, these so-called tumour organoids can be used to test experimental cancer treatments with quick results.

With samples taken from patients, Dr Hossein Jahedi is building a collection of these tiny, fleshy lumps of cancer.

“We take a tiny bit of their tumour, with their permission, and we take it into the lab. We digest it into single cells, so we kind of digest all the stuff around the cancer cells so that we only have the cancer cells, and then we grow these cancer cells in a jelly-like material,” he said.

The organoids themselves were barely the size of a grain of sand, but Dr Jahedi said their potential was enormous.

“They act like avatars for the cancers that we can grow in the lab. We can have a replica of that person’s cancer, not a 100 percent replica, but quite, quite similar,” he said.

“And what this does, it allows us to test some of the drugs that the patient may receive before they actually receive it to see if these organoids respond to those drugs.”

Dr Emma Nolan has been building a library of breast cancer organoids since 2022. Supplied / University of Auckland / Brett Phibbs

Jahedi’s new project, which focused on lung cancer, was inspired by his colleague, Dr Emma Nolan.

Nolan had been developing a library of breast cancer organoids since 2022 as part of a pilot study to prove how useful they could be.

To date, she had created organoids from 30 breast cancer patients, with a goal to build a library that researchers across the country could pull from to test life-saving treatments.

“So the idea with this organoid collection from these 30 patients, and we’re hoping to increase this, is that this becomes a tool for cancer research across New Zealand,” she said.

“And therefore, breast cancer labs across the country can use these models to answer their questions that they’re looking at.”

Cancer patients ‘put themselves as lab rats’

David Downs Supplied / David Downs

Cancer survivor David Downs knew firsthand how experimental treatments could save lives, but he said the process of undergoing new treatments was daunting.

“The pathway to medicines coming to the mainstream today does require humans to put themselves kind of as lab rats,” he said.

“You’re literally signing pieces of paper acknowledging that you’re one of the first humans to get this and they know roughly what the side effects might be but they’re not sure, etcetera. All that can create a bit of anxiety.”

Diagnosed in 2017 with a rare blood cancer that wouldn’t respond to chemotherapy, Downs braved a clinical trial in the United States that ultimately saved his life.

He hoped organoids could be used to improve that process and spare others the anxiety he felt.

“I went to Boston, I had a treatment, I was very lucky, it went really well for me. But you do certainly hear of side effects in some clinical trials, particularly early on, and so testing things in a way that involves human cells but isn’t involving humans, to me, feels like a really great breakthrough,” he said.

However, research into tumour organoids was still in the very early stages.

Even after three years of work, Dr Nolan said a clinical trial was years away.

“We would hope within the next five years to be able to initiate a small trial at one or two sites within Auckland in order to really test the clinical value of these organoids,” she said.

“There’s a lot of excitement in the group for this research and there’s a lot of potential but we really need to be able to confirm this in clinical trial before we’re able to know whether or not this actually ultimately could help.”

Dr Nolan said it would be some time before patients saw the benefits of the work, but the early results were promising.

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/2026/02/04/excitement-over-potential-for-testing-cancer-drugs-on-lab-grown-tumours-at-auckland-uni/

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More disruption possible after 60 flights at Wellington Airport cancelled

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fog blankets Wellington harbour on 31 March 2022. RNZ / Rob Dixon

Wellington Airport says about 60 flights were cancelled on Tuesday due to fog in the capital.

It said there could be some disruption on Wednesday as a result, so passengers should check with their airline.

Jetstar said none of its flights were disrupted.

Air New Zealand said 39 of its flights were cancelled on Tuesday.

“Impacted customers have been rebooked on the next available service,” it said.

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/2026/02/04/more-disruption-possible-after-60-flights-at-wellington-airport-cancelled/

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Synlait’s comeback delayed as costs stay high

Source: Radio New Zealand

The company is a key supplier to A2 Milk. Synlait/supplied

Dairy company Synlait is forecasting a hefty half-year loss as its recovery takes longer than hoped.

The company has forecast a net loss after tax of between $77 million-$82m for the six months ended January.

The company – a key supplier to A2 Milk – said manufacturing challenges at its Dunsandel plant in Canterbury had been resolved, but the need to rebuild inventory pushed up costs, forcing Synlait to sell more raw milk at low margins.

Lower returns from commodities and a conservative approach to tax accounting also dragged down the results.

Chief executive Richard Wyeth said the company was “very disappointed” with the half-year result and the slower than expected pace of the turnaround.

He said there had been progress in the company’s operations, with a refreshed Canterbury-based leadership team and the asset sale (of its North Island businesses) helping strengthen the business.

“Our strategy is being reset, and we are confident it will provide a pathway to return Synlait to success, although this will take at least 12 months,” he said.

The company’s sale of its North Island operations was still expected to go through on 1 April, with the proceeds to be used to pay down debt.

Synlait said the sale would allow it to refocus on its core operations in Canterbury.

Along with a heavy bottom line loss, Synlait also expected an operating loss of between $28m-33m, and an underlying loss of $33-38m.

Synlait had an insurance claim approved that would cover part of the losses linked to its manufacturing issues, but the final amount and timing of the payout were still being worked out.

The insurance payout would be added back into the accounts at a later date, and the figures were subject to an audit.

Synlait said it was in active talks with its banking syndicate as it worked towards completing the North Island asset sale.

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/2026/02/04/synlaits-comeback-delayed-as-costs-stay-high/

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RBNZ calls on deposit takers to enhance risk management practices

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

4 February 2026 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s latest thematic review on deposit takers’ risk management practices stresses the need for continuous improvement to ensure risk management remains relevant, effective and aligned with good practice.

“Effective risk management enables deposit takers to identify and mitigate risks proactively, reducing the likelihood of failures and building resilience in the financial system. This makes risk management central to our mandate of protecting and promoting financial stability,” says Director of Financial System Assessment Kerry Watt.

The review found that risk management practices were largely proportionate to the deposit takers’ size and complexity. While most entities are already investing in enhancing their risk management practices, the review found that more needs to be done to uplift capability to meet the Reserve Bank’s expectations.

“Sound risk management requires forward looking and adaptive practices underpinned by strong governance and risk culture. This enables firms to effectively manage known and emerging risks in a changing economic environment,” says Mr Watt.

All deposit takers are expected to consider the findings and recommendations outlined in the report and take appropriate actions. The Reserve Bank will be following up with firms on how they compare with the findings from the review as part of ongoing supervisory monitoring.

The review focused on three fundamental pillars of sound risk management: the Risk Management Framework, governance and oversight, and the risk management function. It covered nine deposit takers of varying sizes and business models, with the objective of strengthening sector capability by sharing good practices and identifying areas for improvement.

Insights from this review will inform the Reserve Bank’s upcoming guidance supporting the risk management standard under the Deposit Takers Act 2023.

The next thematic review will focus on risk management in the general insurance sector.

More information

Thematic review on risk management:
https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=d88a57ea39&e=f3c68946f8

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/03/rbnz-calls-on-deposit-takers-to-enhance-risk-management-practices/

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Research – From overqualified to invisible: The challenges of hiring in today’s market – Robert Half

Source: Robert Half

  • 98% of Kiwi employers report difficulty identifying standout candidates in today’s job market.
  • 93% say they’ve seen an increase in overqualified applicants in the past year.
  • Automated screening tools missing strong candidates (37%), high volume of applications (36%), and assessing AI-generated CVs (36%) are the biggest challenges for employers to identify standout candidates.
  • Employers say strong interpersonal or soft skills (34%), clear communication in application material (31%), and demonstrated, relevant experience tailored to the role (31%) are key to rising above the crowd.

Auckland, 4 February 2026 – A surge in job applications is offering employers more choice on paper, but in reality, standout talent is getting harder to find. New independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half reveals that 98% of Kiwi employers face challenges in distinguishing exceptional talent in the current competitive hiring market.

With today’s latest unemployment rate sitting at 5.4%1 and Seek job ad applications up 19.6%2 YoY, the employment market appears to be softening, yet competition for top roles remains high.

Why more applications don’t always mean stronger candidates

A surge in job applications, driven in part by economic caution and shifting career priorities, has brought with it an unexpected challenge. In the past 12 months, 93% of employers have seen a rise in candidates applying for roles they are overqualified for.

Technology hiring managers (96%) have seen the highest number of overqualified applicants, compared to 90% in finance and accounting.

“We’re seeing a growing number of professionals applying for roles beneath their experience level, particularly in sectors like technology and finance. While it might seem like a bonus to hire someone overqualified, it can be a double-edged sword. If the position doesn’t fully leverage their skillset, it may lead to disengagement, lower morale and, ultimately, higher turnover,” says Ronil Singh, Director at Robert Half.

What’s getting in the way of standout candidates

When asked about the biggest obstacles to identifying top applicants, employers cited several key issues:

 

Challenge 

% of employers 

Automated screening tools missing strong candidates 

37% 

High volume of applications makes it difficult to review thoroughly 

36% 

AI-generated CVs make it difficult to accurately assess candidate quality 

36% 

Limited visibility into soft skills or cultural fit 

34% 

Generic CVs and cover letters that don’t highlight unique strengths 

34% 

Difficulty assessing long-term potential or commitment 

34% 

Independent survey commissioned by Robert Half among 250 employers in New Zealand. 

Here’s what gets noticed by employers 

In a competitive jobs market, the top qualities that help candidates cut through the volume, according to hiring managers: 

 

  • 34% say strong interpersonal or soft skills 
  • 31% say demonstrated, relevant experience tailored to the role 
  • 31% say clear and concise communication in CV and cover letter 
  • 30% say demonstrated understanding of the company or industry 
  • 29% say professional presentation and attention to detail 
  • 28% say referrals or internal recommendations 
  • 26% say evidence of adaptability or problem-solving skills 
  • 26% say strong alignment with company values or culture 

 

“Hiring managers are contending with an influx of applications, and many are finding it challenging to identify the right fit for their open roles. With advances in technology prone to error, along with uniform formatting and templated language driven by the rise of AI-generated content, distinguishing candidates and accurately assessing their true skills and suitability has become increasingly difficult. 

“With high application volumes and AI-generated content flooding recruitment pipelines, employers are placing greater emphasis on proven role-specific experience and soft skills, which are almost equally as important in today’s market. Candidates who clearly articulate these qualities are more likely to stand out in an otherwise crowded and uniform talent pool,” concludes Singh.

1 Stats NZ, Labour market statistics: December 2025 quarter 

2 SEEK Job Ad Postings – 12-months to Nov 2025 (vs 12-months to Nov 2024) 

Notes

About the research 

The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in October 2025 by an independent research company of 250 finance, accounting, and IT and technology hiring managers. Respondents are drawn from a sample of SMEs as well as large private, publicly-listed, and public sector organisations across New Zealand. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management, and trends in the workplace.  

 

About Robert Half 

Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm.  Robert Half New Zealand has an office in Auckland. More information on roberthalf.com/nz. 

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/03/research-from-overqualified-to-invisible-the-challenges-of-hiring-in-todays-market-robert-half/

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Waitangi – Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi Brings 17-Member Indigenous Hawaiian Delegation to Waitangi in Solidarity with Māori

Source: Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi

Waitangi, Aotearoa – Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi, a Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) initiative for self-determination and self-governance formed in 1987, has sent a 17-member Indigenous Hawaiian delegation to Waitangi, Aotearoa to stand in solidarity with the Māori people in defense of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.  The delegation is present to stand alongside Māori leadership, strengthen international solidarity, and affirm the deep genealogical and oceanic ties shared by Indigenous peoples of Moana Nui a Kanaloa.

On February 3, members of the delegation participated in a pōwhiri with iwi taketake at Te Tii Waitangi Marae, marking a formal welcome and the beginning of their engagement alongside Māori communities and leaders.

Members of the delegation will be speaking at the Political Forum tent on February 5 at 4:00 p.m., participating in the dawn ceremony on February 6, and marching alongside their whānau in support of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The delegation has issued a formal Statement of Solidarity calling on the international community to pay close attention to developments in Aotearoa, as political actions continue to seek to weaken and reinterpret Te Tiriti and undermine Māori rangatiratanga.

The statement raises serious concern that recent government actions and political rhetoric have misrepresented efforts to address structural discrimination as “racial privilege,” and have enabled legislative initiatives seeking to radically redefine the meaning of Te Tiriti—triggering widespread national protests, multiple claims before the Waitangi Tribunal, judicial review proceedings, and large nationwide hui of Māori leaders.

“The world should know what is happening in Aotearoa. As Kanaka Maoli, we know what it means to have our lands, waters, and political future decided without us,” said Healani Sonoda-Pale, spokesperson for Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi. “We came to Waitangi so the world can see that Māori are not standing alone—and that Indigenous peoples across the Pacific are watching, standing together, and demanding that Te Tiriti o Waitangi be fully honored. Our struggles are connected, and our collective liberation as Indigenous peoples of Oceania are bound to one another.”

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/03/waitangi-ka-lahui-hawai%CA%BBi-brings-17-member-indigenous-hawaiian-delegation-to-waitangi-in-solidarity-with-maori/

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Government pilots wild deer control programme

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is taking action to reduce the impacts of wild deer on privately owned production land, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard and Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager say. 

“Wild deer are valued for recreational purposes and as a food source but increasing numbers in some parts of the country are causing problems for farmers, growers and foresters,” Mr Hoggard says.

In 2026, MPI will establish a programme to help communities improve the management of wild deer.  The programme will include two trials based around catchment groups to develop and deliver management plans, one in the North Island in the Wairarapa and one in the Hurunui in the South Island. 

“Catchment groups are a good place to start because they involve landowners already working collaboratively on other issues. Wider community interests will have a role, especially hunters and regional councils.

“I’ve met with stakeholder groups such as New Zealand Deerstalkers Association and the Game Animal Council to discuss how hunters can be involved, and representatives of the hunting community will be included on an Oversight Group. I did take the opportunity to stress that despite some reports, no toxins, such as brodifacoum, would be used for deer control. 

“I also recognise the role of government policy in unlocking commercial opportunities for deer recovery, so the programme will also involve sense-checking the system and regulatory settings. I have asked officials to have a good look at the food safety controls currently on hunted meat to make sure they are justified. Any opportunity to open up more opportunities for hunters to get a financial return for their work will be looked at.”

Mr Meager says the hunting community will be part of the solution.

“Hunter-led conservation is an important part of managing wild deer in New Zealand. If we are to make real inroads in tackling the impacts of these wild animals, it will take a collaborative approach across government and stakeholders.”

Mr Hoggard says he expects that once the deer management programme was progressing, that MPI will work with partners to begin addressing other wild browsing animal problems on production land.

“There’s a lot of concern around wild pigs and Canada geese and we need a joined-up effort to address those too.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/government-pilots-wild-deer-control-programme/

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High Court defeat piles pressure on ’embarrassed’ Fiji PM Rabuka’s leadership, says academic

By Koroi Hawkins, RNZ Pacific editor

A court ruling in favour of Fiji’s dismissed anti-corruption chief has “embarrassed” Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, a New Zealand-based Fiji politics academic says.

University of Canterbury distinguished professor Steven Ratuva told RNZ Pacific Waves that while the Fiji High Court decision on Barbara Malimali offered “clarity” on the separation of powers, it added “to the weight of responsibilities” piling up under Rabuka’s leadership.

On Monday, the court ruled that Malimali’s dismissal was unlawful — a decision she said “vindicated” her. Rabuka immediately announced that he would be appealing the decision, but later told local reporters that he would “consider” resigning if the appeal failed.

“[Resignation] is an option,” he said.

Despite this, Rabuka’s Information Minister Lynda Tabuya told reporters on Tuesday that the prime minister had the full support of the cabinet.

“It was a resounding sentiment in cabinet that we would not accept his resignation,” she said in a post-cabinet press briefing on Tuesday, adding that Rabuka had “unanimous support . . .  to continue to lead this country and continue to lead us.”

Rabuka had not admitted to any wrongdoing and reports in the media “need to be corrected,” Tabuya said.

Fiji military commander Major-General Jone Kalouniwai also weighed in on the turn of events, telling local media that the army is maintaining “a [situational] awareness of what is happening” given that the country was heading into an election period.

“It’s important for us to understand what’s happening. Looking at it from a security perspective, things can cascade into a different situation,” he told The Fiji Times.

Former Fiji anti-corruption chief Barbara Malimali . . . High Court ruled that her dismissal was unlawful. Image: FB/RNZ

Dr Ratuva said all the issues Rabuka was having to deal with were “leading him to breaking point”.

“The fact that he has signalled his willingness to resign if the appeal doesn’t come through, is something which only [Rabuka] himself will have to decide,” he said.

“A lot of people have been asking for his resignation in the last few months for different reasons, particularly in relation to the way some of these complex challenges have been handled by the government.

Fiji Military commander Major-General Jone Kalouniwai . . . maintaining “a [situational] awareness of what is happening”. Image: FB/Republic of Fiji Military Forces

“So it depends very much on what’s going to happen after the appeal, and the process might go on for some time . . .  even the election might come in between.”

Fiji is expected to head to the polls anytime between August 7 (earliest) this year and 6 February 2027 (latest).

Distinguished Professor Steven Ratuva . . . issues Rabuka is having to deal with are “leading him to breaking point”. Image: University of Canterbury

Dr Ratuva said Fijian opposition parties will try to use some of these issues faced by Rabuka as part of campaigning.

“Anything can be leveraged as a means of manoeuvring your opposition, so certainly it is something which will arise during the election campaigns,” he said.

He said other issues such as the cost of living, health, infrastructure, rising crime, drugs, would become campaign issues during the election.

The government under Rabuka, he said, would be on the defensive in terms of making sure that they would be re-elected.

“But then that depends very much on how they are able to handle these issues, and of course, the choice of the voters ultimately,” Dr Ratuva said.

“The number of scandals and the number of crisis, which have defined the rule of this particular coalition has diverted attention away from the real issues on the ground, so they have to live with it and the consequences are going to be felt in the next election.”

This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/02/04/high-court-defeat-piles-pressure-on-embarrassed-fiji-pm-rabukas-leadership-says-academic/

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NZ holds out hope for halted Papua New Guinea electrification project

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand spent $6.7 million over the last six years on the project which aimed to connect at least 4000 households to electricity. RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

The New Zealand government says it hopes an electrification aid project that was halted in Papua New Guinea can still be completed if security improves.

Work on the Enga Electrification Project in PNG’s Enga province has stopped due to ongoing violence around the project area in Tsak Valley.

New Zealand spent NZ$6.7 million over the last six years on the project which aimed to connect at least 4000 households to electricity.

It was part of combined efforts with the US, Australia and Japan to help 70 percent of PNG homes get connected by 2030, as agreed to in 208 when PNG hosted the APEC Leaders Summit.

However, contractors had to be withdrawn from the area after a surge in tribal fighting in August last year, according to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

“Ending New Zealand’s involvement is a disappointing outcome, particularly given New Zealand’s longstanding and extensive efforts to deliver energy infrastructure in Enga Province,” the spokesperson said.

“New Zealand is working on a transition plan with partners in Papua New Guinea. It is hoped this will allow for the successful completion of the project if security improves.”

The ministry said 13.5 kilometres of distribution lines in the North of the project area were largely installed but were yet to be commissioned or connected to houses.

It said 12km of distribution lines in the south of the project area remain at various stages of construction.

PNG Power office, Southern Highlands, Papua New Guinea. RNZ / Johnny Blades

Meanwhile, PNG’s Foreign Minster Justin Tkatchenko told local media that New Zealand would hand over equipment from the project to PNG Power Limited, a state-owned entity.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/nz-holds-out-hope-for-halted-papua-new-guinea-electrification-project/

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Unemployment rate highest in a decade as it rises to 5.4%

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ

  • Unemployment rises to 10 year high of 5.4 percent
  • 15,000 jobs added in quarter, but workforce and job hunters grow
  • Underutilisation rate steady at five year high of 13 pct
  • Youth unemployment rises, more woman in the labour force
  • Annual wage growth slows to near five year low of 2 percent
  • Data worse than expected, backs the RBNZ holding cash rate steady in two weeks

Unemployment rose to its highest level in more than a decade, with more people chasing work than jobs created, while wage growth slowed further.

Stats NZ numbers showed the unemployment rate rising to 5.4 percent in the three months ended December, from 5.3 percent in the previous quarter. It was the highest level since March 2015.

“Over the quarter, we saw higher levels of engagement in the labour market as both employment and unemployment increased,” macroeconomic spokesperson Jason Attewell said.

A total of 165,000 people were unemployed, a rise of 4000 on the previous quarter and 10,000 on a year ago.

The data was worse than forecast by economists and the Reserve Bank.

Unemployment has been steadily rising as businesses either sacked staff or stopped hiring because of the weak economy, while the workforce has increased despite a slowdown in migration.

The level of underutilisation, including the unemployed and under-employed, used as a measure of slack in the jobs market, held at 13 percent, the highest rate since late 2020.

The number employed increased by about 15,000 in the quarter, the strongest quarterly growth in two years, however, the economy still had more than 30,000 fewer jobs than two years ago.

The level of unemployment of people between 15 and 24 years was 16.5 percent, with the total not in education or training falling to 13.7 percent.

Stats NZ said there was a noticeable increase in the number of women in the labour force, with another 20,000 joining in the quarter, many going into part time employment.

The regions with the highest unemployment were Auckland, Wellington and Waikato with rates close to 6 percent, with all South Island regions below 5 percent.

The broad measure of wages showed overall growth slowing to a four year low of 2 percent from 2.1 percent, compared with a 3.1 percent rise in consumer prices.

The data was above Reserve Bank forecasts and backs the central bank holding the official cash rate at 2.25 percent later this month.

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/2026/02/04/unemployment-rate-highest-in-a-decade-as-it-rises-to-5-4/

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Police using drones in search for Kevin Belling in Southland

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police and relatives are concerned for Kevin Belling. Supplied / NZ Police

Police have deployed drones and foot patrols in the search for an Invercargill farmer who has been missing for nearly four weeks.

Kevin Belling, 62, was last seen on his Motu Rimu farm on 9 January and reported missing on 18 January.

Police said they had serious concerns for his welfare, as did Belling’s loved ones.

People were being urged to check their rural properties for any sign of him.

Detective Sergeant John Kean said search and rescue teams had searched extensively for Belling.

On Saturday they focused on his Caeser Road property in Kapuka, he said.

“Unfortunately, Kevin has not been found and police continue to appeal for any information that could help us find him,” he said.

“It is very unusual for Kevin to not be in contact with anyone for this long.”

Police were urging anyone with information to contact 105 using the reference number 260118/6964.

Information could also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/police-using-drones-in-search-for-kevin-belling-in-southland/

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Native Hawaiian delegation travel to Waitangi to stand in solidarity with Māori

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ka Lāhui Hawai’i, a Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawaiian) group travelled to Waitangi to stand in solidarity with Māori in a call to protect and honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Supplied / Ka Lāhui Hawai’i

Ka Lāhui Hawai’i, a Kanaka Maoli (native Hawaiian) group are standing in solidarity with Māori in what they describe as a “defence of Te Tiriti o Waitangi”.

The 17-member Indigenous Hawaiian delegation were welcomed to Te Tii Marae on Tuesday, marking the beginning of their engagement alongside Māori communities and leaders.

The rōpū say they are present to “stand alongside Māori leadership, strengthen international solidarity, and affirm the deep genealogical and oceanic ties shared by Indigenous peoples of Moana Nui a Kanaloa”.

Healani Sonoda-Pale, spokesperson for Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi, said the world should know what is happening in Aotearoa.

“As Kanaka Maoli, we know what it means to have our lands, waters, and political future decided without us,” Sonoda-Pale said.

“We came to Waitangi so the world can see that Māori are not standing alone, and that Indigenous peoples across the Pacific are watching, standing together, and demanding that Te Tiriti o Waitangi be fully honoured.”

Sonoda-Pale said their struggles are connected.

“And our collective liberation as Indigenous peoples of Oceania are bound to one another.”

The delegation, which was formed in 1987 as a self-determination and self-governance initiative, have also issued a formal Statement of Solidarity calling on the international community to pay close attention to developments in Aotearoa.

“Since coming to power in 2023, the coalition government has passed, or sought to pass, a suite of laws that directly attack Māori rights to their land, language, culture and healthcare, as well as Te Tiriti o Waitangi itself,” their statement said.

“Te Tiriti o Waitangi affirms the independence and rights of Māori to their lands, waters, and all that is held sacred, yet the history of Aotearoa since 1840 has been marked by repeated failures by the Crown to honor these founding promises.”

The rōpū acknowleged Te Tiriti o Waitangi as Aotearoa, New Zealand’s founding document.

“For Māori, however, Te Tiriti is not the source of their rights, but a reaffirmation of rights that exist because they are tangata whenua, the people of the land,” they said.

“Their relationship to their whenua stretches back through the last millennium, during which time tikanga Māori operated, and continues to operate, as the first law of the land.”

The rōpū say Crown laws “do not and can not diminish rangatiratanga derived through whakapapa Māori, tikanga Māori, and their connections to their lands and waterways”.

Ka Lāhui Hawai’i said as a people “facing similar harms” to their own lands and waters they reject any attempt to “weaken Māori rangatiratanga under the guise of ‘good governance’ or ‘equality’”.

“We stand with our Māori ʻohana and call for the full and faithful honouring of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”

Members of the delegation will be speaking at the Political Forum tent at Waitangi on Thursday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/native-hawaiian-delegation-travel-to-waitangi-to-stand-in-solidarity-with-maori/

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Serial rapist Malcolm Rewa admits to sexually attacking another woman

Source: Radio New Zealand

Serial rapist Malcom Rewa. POOL

Serial rapist Malcolm Rewa has admitted to sexually attacking another woman.

Rewa is serving a life sentence in prison after being found guilty of the 1992 murder of Papatoetoe woman Susan Burdett in 2019.

He was already serving a sentence of preventive detention with a minimum non-parole period of 22 years, having being convicted of sexual attacks on 25 women.

Teina Pora was wrongfully convicted of Burdett’s rape and murder in 1994, found guilty again at a retrial in 2000, but eventually the convictions were quashed by the Privy Council in 2004.

Appearing via video link at the High Court in Auckland on Wednesday, Rewa pled guilty to one charge of sexual violation by rape that dating back to 18 June 1988.

His lawyer Mark Jepson said his client was not seeking name continued name suppression.

Rewa is due to be sentenced on 17 April, 2026.

Detective Inspector Scott Beard earlier confirmed to RNZ police had charged a man over a historical stranger sexual assault in Auckland during the late 1980s.

“An investigation was carried out at the time when the alleged rape occurred in Onehunga on 18 June 1988.

“Enquiries available to detectives at the time were unable to identify the perpetrator.”

In May last year the complainant contacted police to review her case.

“This was assigned to an investigator in the Auckland City Adult Sexual Assault Team.

“Police have since charged a 72-year-old man with rape.”

Beard was unable to go into the specifics of the 2025 enquiries given court proceedings were under way.

“However, it is pleasing that we can bring this matter to the courts on behalf of the complainant, given there is no statute of limitations on this sort of offending.”

Failed appeal

Rewa fought for a retrial of his conviction with the Court of Appeal, which was dismissed in January 2023.

Rewa’s lawyers had argued his trial lawyer, Paul Chambers, was “incompetent”.

They also argued a witness, whose name and other details have been suppressed by the court, and who was in a sexual relationship with Susan Burdett, had motive to kill her.

After failing to have his conviction overturned Rewa later applied to appeal in the Supreme Court, calling his trial a miscarriage of justice.

A decision from the Supreme Court said his appeal was filed nine months late, but due to the extensive material to consider, this was allowed.

However, his appeal has been dismissed as the Supreme Court said there was no risk of a miscarriage of justice.

Teina Pora was wrongly imprisoned for 20 years for the rape and murder of Burdett.

Pora was convicted in 1994, found guilty again at a retrial in 2000, but eventually the convictions were quashed by the Privy Council in 2004.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/serial-rapist-malcolm-rewa-admits-to-sexually-attacking-another-woman/

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Measles outbreak officially over but risk remains

Source: Radio New Zealand

Public health services throughout the country managed 48 cases and more than 7500 contacts, Health NZ said. Supplied/ US CDC

The measles outbreak, which started in September, is officially over, with 42 days since the last confirmed connected case – but risk from the virus remains.

Health NZ’s National Public Health Service, with the support of PHF Science and the Measles Reference Lab at Canterbury Health Laboratories, have traced cases in the outbreak as far back as 1 September 2025, with four separate clusters until 21 December.

Spokesperson Dr Emma Sherwood said over the last four months, public health services throughout the country had managed 48 cases and more than 7500 contacts, which was “a significant achievement”.

“It’s important to acknowledge the coordinated work of the public health service and contact tracing systems, alongside strong community cooperation with isolation requirements, undoubtedly prevented a much larger outbreak similar to 2019.

“It is also heartening that, thanks to a massive immunisation push during this outbreak response, nearly 107,000 doses of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine have been delivered to people across the country over the last four months.”

However, New Zealand remained at continued risk for further outbreaks, with a travel-associated case confirmed in Tauranga last week, and the NPHS continued to closely monitor for and respond to further cases.

“Although the latest Tauranga case and the recent outbreak are not connected, they highlight New Zealand’s ongoing vulnerability to measles infection – particularly as links to overseas travel are a common thread,” Sherwood said.

“It’s highly likely that we will continue to have future measles cases and outbreaks. Many popular travel destinations are experiencing outbreaks, and there is a risk of travellers bringing measles back to New Zealand, where we know we have low immunisation rates in some communities.

“That’s why we continue to urge anyone not already immunised with two doses of the MMR vaccine after 12 months’ old to get vaccinated to protect themselves and loved ones against future outbreaks.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/measles-outbreak-officially-over-but-risk-remains/

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Television producer Alexander Breingan facing 33 charges brought by Serious Fraud Office

Source: Radio New Zealand

The SFO announced on Wednesday they had filed charges in the Auckland District Court against Alexander Breingan (file image). RNZ / Liu Chen

The Serious Fraud Office has filed more than 30 charges against a television producer in relation to more than $4.3 million in government-funded rebates and $10m in lending.

The SFO announced on Wednesday they had filed charges in the Auckland District Court against Alexander Breingan.

It is alleged he made false representations and used forged documents to obtain more than $4.3m in government-funded rebates and $10.2m in lending.

“The alleged offending relates to the financing of 13 television programmes that were produced, or proposed to be produced, by Mr Breingan through his Stripe Studios companies.

“This matter was referred to the SFO by the New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) who raised concerns in relation to applications made on behalf of entities associated to Stripe Media for the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate.”

Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

The SFO said Breingan is residing overseas and was yet to appear in court.

New Zealand Film Commission (NZFC) chief executive Annie Murray released a statement following the SFO’s announcement.

Murray said the NZFC welcomed and supported the developments.

“As NZFC publicly confirmed in November 2023, material provided by an applicant for the New Zealand Screen Production Rebate for New Zealand Productions (NZSPR – NZ) was investigated by NZFC and concerns were identified.

“Those concerns led NZFC to review previous applications from the same media group in which other concerns about the reliability of documents provided to NZFC in support of NZSPR – NZ applications were identified. These matters were immediately referred to the SFO.”

Murray said the commission co-operated fully with the SFO’s investigation.

“NZFC has long-established systems for the assessment of rebate and funding applications, including staged certifications, independent verification requirements, and audit mechanisms.

“These robust processes exist to protect public funds, ensure fairness for applicants, and maintain the integrity of New Zealand’s screen incentives.”

She said the “vast majority” of rebate applications proceeded without issue.

“This isolated matter does not reflect the broader performance of the rebate system.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/television-producer-alexander-breingan-facing-33-charges-brought-by-serious-fraud-office/

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Unemployment rises – but hiring rebound may not be far behind, says EMA

Source: EMA

The Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) says the rise in unemployment to 5.4% in the December quarter, announced today, is disappointing but not unexpected.
Alan McDonald, Head of Advocacy at the EMA, says that unemployment is a lagging indicator and a raft of forward measures point to improving hiring conditions through 2026.
“We had hoped it would bottom out at 5.3%, even though some projections have it going to 5.5% by later this year,” says McDonald.
“Nevertheless, in recent months we’ve seen confidence, forward orders and activity firm up. Unemployment always lags the real economy and we’re confident we’ll see hiring pick up as 2026 progresses.
“Employers will wait to see those positives reflected in their own pipelines, and then they will resource up. Today’s increase in unemployment, while disappointing, is not inconsistent with that pattern of late-cycle labour market adjustment.”
Recent activity data backs this narrative. December readings showed manufacturing at a three-year high, with the BNZ-BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI) at 56.1. The services sector is also back into expansion, with the Performance of Services Index (PSI) at 51.5. Both indices show signs of momentum that typically flow into hiring following a lag.
“We’re also still hearing about skills mismatches, especially for entry-level roles after the COVID schooling disruptions. That makes work-ready skills and targeted training a priority so people can step into the jobs that are emerging.”
Migration dynamics remain a swing factor, with the net migration gain slowing to 11,900 in the year to October, adding to the importance of training and retention strategies for local firms.
Alan McDonald says “Today’s numbers aren’t good news for those affected – but they’re not the end of the story. The message from the wider data is that demand is rebuilding, and when firms have confidence in their forward orders, they’ll start hiring. Our focus is helping EMA members bridge the skills gap – so more Kiwis can get back to work as opportunities open up.”      

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/03/unemployment-rises-but-hiring-rebound-may-not-be-far-behind-says-ema/

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New Pharmac proposal for cancer patients, on World Cancer Day

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister David Seymour and Health Minister Simeon Brown welcome Pharmac’s proposal to widen access to brentuximab for people with systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL). 

“World Cancer Day is an opportunity to recognise those impacted by cancer. I would like to acknowledge the hardships faced by thousands of Kiwis affected by cancer each year,” Mr Seymour says.

“Improving access to cancer medication in New Zealand is important to cancer patients, and their families. That’s why it has been a focus of this Government.

“Under today’s proposal, brentuximab could be used as a first treatment option for people newly diagnosed with sALCL. Previously patients had to wait until other options had been tried, and proven ineffective. This proposal is expected to improve both survival rate, and quality of life.

“Pharmac will now consult clinicians, the public, and Blood Cancer NZ to understand the practical impacts of funding this medicine. The proposal has had support from the blood cancer community.

“We have allocated Pharmac its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, and a $604 million uplift. Since then, Pharmac has made decisions to fund 43 new cancer treatments. In the first year of funding, Pharmac anticipates about 2,500 Kiwis will access the treatments they need that weren’t previously available to them. This makes a real difference in the lives of Kiwis. 

“We aren’t stopping there. I will continue to work towards securing more money for Pharmac to get on with what they do best – funding the medicines Kiwis need to live longer and more fulfilling lives.”  

Mr Brown says the Government is committed to improving treatment and care for New Zealanders with blood cancer.

“Last year, I announced a significant expansion of stem cell transplant services for patients with blood cancers and related conditions, helping more people access critical, life-saving treatment sooner. Too many Kiwis currently face distressing delays for these procedures, which is why boosting transplant capacity and reducing wait times is essential.

“The expansion will enable between 27 and 38 per cent more patients to receive allogeneic transplants when they need them, improving outcomes and giving people a better chance at recovery.

“This is about keeping people with cancer at the centre. Alongside investment in new medicines through Pharmac, our Faster Cancer Treatment target, and other initiatives to strengthen cancer services, we are focused on improving access, reducing delays, and ensuring people get the treatment they need, when they need it.”

Pharmac’s proposal, if feedback is positive, will be effective from 1 April 2026.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/new-pharmac-proposal-for-cancer-patients-on-world-cancer-day/

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Pharmac proposes wider access to a treatment for people with a rare blood cancer

Source: PHARMAC

People in New Zealand living with a rare type of blood cancer, systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL), could benefit from wider access to brentuximab vedotin under a proposal from Pharmac.

Pharmac is consulting on a change that would allow brentuximab vedotin to be used as a first-line treatment option for people newly diagnosed with sALCL. If approved, the treatment would be funded from 1 April 2026.

“This would mean people could receive brentuximab vedotin as a first treatment option, instead of waiting until other options have been tried,” says Pharmac’s Manager of Pharmaceutical Funding, Claire Pouwels. “Around 12 people are expected to benefit in the first year, with around 60 people benefitting over the next 5 years.”

Brentuximab vedotin is currently funded only for people whose lymphoma has returned or has not responded to earlier treatment. Using brentuximab vedotin earlier is expected to support better outcomes for people with sALCL, who often face poor survival rates and significant health needs.

“Systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma is a rare cancer that is often diagnosed in people under 55,” says Pouwels. “Making this treatment available earlier has the potential to improve both survival and quality of life.”

Pharmac is seeking feedback from people with sALCL, their whānau, health professionals, advocacy groups, and anyone else who would like to comment. Consultation is open until 5 pm, 19 February 2026. Feedback can be submitted via the online form linked in the consultation. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/pharmac-proposes-wider-access-to-a-treatment-for-people-with-a-rare-blood-cancer/

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Endurance events are booming, but why?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Running tough trails, cycling rough roads and paddling wild waterways.

After a stint of 2am training sessions (so she could get home to her kids before breakfast) Krys Connolly crossed the Coast to Coast finish line.

This was back in 2006.

Krys Connolly has been involved in the Coast to Coast throughout the last 20 years.

Supplied

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/endurance-events-are-booming-but-why/