28 Jul 2026
3 months ago
773 views
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed the reappointments of Dr Charlotte Severne as Māori Trustee, Hinerangi Edwards to the Poutama Trust Board, and Brian Morris to the Te Māngai Pāho Board, ensuring continuity in governance across Māori land, economic development, and broadcasting. Each appointee brings extensive experience and a strong commitment to advancing Māori land management, enterprise growth, and the promotion of te reo Māori and tikanga Māori. Their leadership is expected to sustain the organisations' efforts in supporting Māori landowners, economic initiatives, and cultural broadcasting.
23 Jul 2026
3 months ago
725 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters highlighted the importance of regional cooperation amid global turbulence and its economic and security impacts during high-level talks in Manila. He emphasized New Zealand’s longstanding partnership with ASEAN and announced a new Comprehensive Partnership with the Philippines to enhance regional stability and resilience. Peters also engaged in multiple bilateral meetings with various foreign ministers, reinforcing New Zealand’s commitment to collaboration in the Asia-Pacific region.
22 Jul 2026
3 months ago
854 views
New Zealand and Papua New Guinea have signed the Statement of Intent on Defence Cooperation 2026-2029 to enhance collaboration through increased defence dialogue, training, exercises, and personnel exchanges. This agreement builds on their existing partnership and reflects a shared commitment to addressing regional security challenges and strengthening economic ties. Additionally, New Zealand is actively supporting Pacific regional cooperation by promoting digital transformation and cybersecurity, highlighted by Defence Minister Chris Penk’s participation in the Pacific Islands Forum ICT Ministers Meeting.
21 Jul 2026
3 months ago
809 views
The Ministry for Women’s BoardConnector database, which links women with governance opportunities, has more than doubled its growth target with over 349 new registrations, now totaling more than 1,140 members. The database supports women at various stages in their governance journey by providing access to information, development opportunities, and board vacancies, contributing to the government’s goal of 50 percent female representation in Crown appointments. Recent successful appointments from the database demonstrate its impact in promoting women’s leadership across public and private sector boards in New Zealand.
21 Jul 2026
3 months ago
729 views
New Zealand and the Philippines have formalized a Comprehensive Partnership to enhance cooperation across political, defense, trade, and people-to-people ties. This partnership, announced by Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Philippine Foreign Secretary Maria Theresa P. Lazaro, marks 60 years of diplomatic relations and aims to support a stable, rules-based Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, both countries signed new agreements on education and geothermal energy, with further discussions planned during Peters’ visit to ASEAN-related events in Manila.
17 Jul 2026
3 months ago
787 views
Sir William Birch was a prominent National Party figure who contributed significantly to New Zealand's modernization during his nearly 30 years in Parliament. He was known for his exceptional diligence and commitment to public service, aiming to create a better future for the country. The Government and National Party extend their deepest condolences to his family and gratitude for his many years of service.
17 Jul 2026
3 months ago
983 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters will visit Manila next week to strengthen New Zealand's relationship with the Philippines and engage in regional meetings, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties. The visit aligns with New Zealand's Foreign Policy Reset focused on enhancing partnerships in Southeast Asia, particularly with ASEAN, a key trade and security partner. During the trip, Peters will conduct bilateral meetings, sign cooperation agreements, and participate in ASEAN, East Asia Summit, and ASEAN Regional Forum meetings involving major regional powers.
16 Jul 2026
3 months ago
839 views
The Foreign Ministers of Fiji and New Zealand signed a refreshed Duavata Partnership, setting priorities for their relationship over the next five years. They emphasized their strong, long-standing ties across various sectors and discussed collaborative efforts like the Ocean of Peace Alliance and boosting two-way trade to NZ$2 billion by 2030. Additionally, Fiji’s Minister Ditoka will attend the Future of Investment and Trade Partnership Ministerial Meeting in Auckland as a guest of New Zealand.
16 Jul 2026
3 months ago
798 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters will meet with Pacific leaders from Niue, Fiji, and Samoa in Auckland to strengthen regional connections amid uncertain geostrategic times. This includes his first in-person meeting with Niue’s Prime Minister Dalton Tagelagi since May and discussions with Fiji’s Foreign Minister Sakiasi Ditoka and Samoa’s Minister Afioga Fata Ryan Schuster. The meetings aim to reinforce New Zealand’s strong relationships with these nations, focusing on mutual benefits, trade, and investment partnerships.
11 Jul 2026
4 months ago
856 views
Prime Ministers Christopher Luxon and Narendra Modi elevated New Zealand-India relations to a Strategic Partnership, agreeing on a Roadmap to 2030 aimed at doubling two-way trade and enhancing cooperation across trade, investment, technology, maritime security, education, tourism, and agriculture. Central to this plan is the implementation of the New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement, which will reduce tariffs on most exports and unlock new opportunities in a market of 1.4 billion people. The partnership also includes strengthened maritime security cooperation and new arrangements in sport, tourism, and agriculture, marking Modi's first visit to New Zealand in 40 years.
09 Jul 2026
4 months ago
942 views
New Zealand plans to engage with Australia and Fiji about potentially joining the Ocean of Peace Alliance, a mutual defense treaty aimed at enhancing regional security. The alliance builds on existing strong military and diplomatic relationships among the three nations and supports Pacific-led responses to security challenges. Final membership decisions will be made by New Zealand’s Cabinet and Parliament after consultations.
08 Jul 2026
4 months ago
853 views
Jane Searle has been appointed Children’s Commissioner, bringing over 15 years of experience in child protection, including roles as chief executive of Child Matters, a police detective, and legal professional. Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston highlighted Ms Searle’s deep understanding of children’s issues and her capability to advocate for their wellbeing. Ms Searle will begin her five-year term on 1 August 2026, succeeding Dr Claire Achmad, who was thanked for her dedicated service.
04 Jul 2026
4 months ago
997 views
Defence Minister Chris Penk will attend the NATO Summit in Ankara, Türkiye, to engage with international partners and participate in the Defence Industry Forum, representing New Zealand alongside the Indo-Pacific Four. He aims to discuss the geostrategic environment, enhance collective security, and explore opportunities for New Zealand businesses to contribute to a more capable and interoperable Defence Force. Penk’s visit underscores New Zealand’s commitment to a rules-based international system and fostering collaboration with like-minded countries.
03 Jul 2026
4 months ago
797 views
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make his first official visit to New Zealand in 40 years, marking a historic moment in bilateral relations, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced. The visit aims to strengthen ties through discussions on trade, investment, maritime security, education, technology, and other areas, building on the recently signed New Zealand-India Free Trade Agreement that will boost exports and economic growth. This visit also celebrates the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries, with a significant Kiwi-Indian community contributing across various sectors.
02 Jul 2026
4 months ago
850 views
Minister Winston Peters commemorated the 250th anniversary of American independence by highlighting the Founders' courageous declaration of freedom in 1776 and the subsequent revolutionary struggle led by figures like George Washington. He emphasized the enduring significance of the U.S. Constitution as a revolutionary experiment in republican government and celebrated America's expansive ambition and innovation across history. Peters also acknowledged the shared sacrifices of New Zealand and American forces, expressing hope that the United States' future will embody the wisdom and ideals of its Founders.