20 Jan 2026
9 months ago
1335 views
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has approved a long-term concession for Milford Sound Tourism Limited to operate key visitor infrastructure at Milford Sound Piopiotahi until 2050, providing certainty for essential facilities in this important conservation area. The decision emphasizes balancing conservation, safe visitor access, and support for regional economies, while recognizing the cultural significance of the site through a partnership with Ngāi Tahu. Officials will now negotiate terms to ensure statutory obligations, capital investment, and broader tourism interests are addressed, supported by government funding for the Milford corridor.
11 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1269 views
Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced the construction of a new two-lane bridge on SH2 near Tāneatua to replace the inadequate one-lane Pekatahi Bridge, with design and consenting funded at $5 million and construction expected to start in mid-2027 at a total cost of $64-69 million. The new bridge will be built adjacent to the existing one to minimize disruption, feature earthquake-resilient foundations, flood protection, and accommodate High Productivity Motor Vehicles, thereby supporting regional economic growth and improving freight reliability. Meanwhile, NZTA will maintain the current bridge with steel plate installations and ongoing monitoring until the new bridge is completed, addressing safety and community concerns in the interim.
24 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1098 views
The Social Investment Fund has allocated $50 million in its first round to seven projects supporting over 1,600 children affected by parental incarceration, care system experience, or early school suspension. These initiatives, selected for their measurable impact, aim to improve health, safety, housing stability, skills, income, and family support, with ongoing monitoring of outcomes. The government has committed $190 million for the fund in Budget 2025, with another funding round planned for early next year.
16 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1245 views
Minister Louise Upston highlights the Government's progress in reducing unemployment despite economic challenges, with a 6% increase in beneficiaries finding work in the June 2025 quarter, totaling 20,775 individuals transitioning into employment. The data also shows a 6.9% rise in work exits from Jobseeker Support and a decrease in young people receiving this support. The Government's initiatives, such as frontline investments, phone-based case management, and Kōrero Mahi seminars, aim to support jobseekers, emphasizing the importance of providing practical assistance during the job search process to help individuals gain independence and improve their lives.
10 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1259 views
The Housing Minister announced that more than 65 new social homes will be built in Canterbury by Community Housing Providers (CHPs) as part of the government's commitment to social housing. These homes are part of over 6,800 net new social homes delivered nationwide since November 2023, with 837 in Canterbury, and funding for an additional 2,000 homes over the next two years. The homes in Canterbury will be located in various suburbs and will primarily consist of one- and two-bedroom units to address the high demand for such properties in the region.
08 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1201 views
Minister Louise Upston praises MSD's focus on frontline partnerships to better prepare jobseekers for employment, citing the success of the 'Into Work' regional workshops for employers. MSD's proactive engagement with job seekers has led to a significant increase in appointments and successful job placements, with tailored seminars providing practical job readiness support. Despite economic challenges, there has been a notable rise in Jobseeker work exits, highlighting the positive impact of prompt employment assistance on individuals, families, communities, and the economy.
01 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1247 views
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has announced seven new appointments to key Māori entities to enhance Māori development, focusing on te reo Māori revitalization, strengthening the Waitangi Tribunal, and maximizing Māori social and economic potential. The appointments include individuals with expertise in Māori education, media, governance, and language revitalization to support the goal of having one million New Zealanders confidently using te reo Māori by 2040. Notable appointments include Dr. Te Rina Warren, Mahanga Pihama, Dr. Jeremy MacLeod, Reikura Kahi, Kingi Kiriona, Mark Gray, and Juliet Tainui-Hernandez, each bringing unique skills and experience to their respective roles.
18 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1300 views
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones are pleased with the approval of the Maitahi Village housing development in Nelson under the Fast-track Approvals Act. The project, expected to deliver 180 homes and various amenities, represents a significant investment in Nelson's future. Minister Jones is focused on expediting regional projects and legislative changes to streamline the approval process for infrastructure developments.
16 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2114 views
New Zealand and Malaysia aim to enhance trade in high-quality halal meat products, with Malaysia being a key market for New Zealand's premium halal meat exports. Malaysia is facilitating approvals for New Zealand halal meat premises to gain access to its market, potentially leading to significant growth in exports and benefiting Kiwi farmers and exporters. Both countries are collaborating to streamline export requirements for New Zealand halal meat, emphasizing the importance of compliance with halal standards and strengthening their relationship in halal processing and assurance systems.