12 Jun 2026
4 months ago
985 views
Forestry Minister Todd McClay praised the 2026 Growing Native Forests Champions Awards winners for demonstrating how native planting can complement productive land uses to enhance environmental and economic outcomes. The awards, with 67 entries, showcase diverse efforts from farmers, iwi, communities, and forestry companies in advancing native forestry to support environmental resilience. The six winners include individuals and groups recognized for large-scale restoration, community planting, sustainable farming, and promoting native timber and cultural values.
10 Jun 2026
4 months ago
911 views
The Government is investing $98,000 in the Rural Wellbeing Champions Programme, embedded within the New Zealand Young Farmer of the Year Contest, to develop young rural leaders who can support mental health and wellbeing in their communities. This initiative, delivered in partnership with New Zealand Young Farmers and Farmstrong, aims to equip up to 150 participants with skills to navigate rural pressures and lead wellbeing conversations. The investment complements a broader mental health plan, enhancing support services and fostering resilient rural communities for the future.
18 May 2026
5 months ago
1082 views
Defence Minister Chris Penk announced the early and under-budget completion of 23 new, high-quality homes for military families across New Zealand Defence Force bases as part of the Homes for Families programme. This $7.8 million development addresses decades of underinvestment in outdated military housing, providing safe, modern living spaces that support personnel wellbeing and ease housing affordability pressures. The government plans to invest up to $600 million through the 2025 Defence Capability Plan to continue delivering these homes, boosting regional economic activity and improving conditions for Defence personnel and their families.
14 May 2026
5 months ago
1005 views
New Zealand's government will reinvest $11.9 million seized from criminals into the Resilience to Organised Crime in Communities (ROCC) programme to combat methamphetamine and gang-related harm. ROCC collaborates with police and community groups across seven regions to prevent gang recruitment, support offenders, and aid communities affected by drug and gang activity through practical initiatives with measurable outcomes. This funding, sourced from the Proceeds of Crime Fund, underscores the government's commitment to reducing organized crime and its impact on vulnerable populations without relying solely on enforcement.
12 May 2026
5 months ago
956 views
Defence Minister Chris Penk highlighted the vital role New Zealand businesses play in supporting national security by providing essential equipment, services, and infrastructure to the Defence Force. This year’s award recipients contribute to regional growth, innovation, and the Defence Capability Plan’s goals, which include doubling defence spending by 2025. Additionally, the Defence Industry Advisory Council has been revitalized with updated membership and terms to better align with government defence and economic priorities.
12 May 2026
5 months ago
1185 views
Chelsea F.C. Women will play Auckland FC Women’s Invitational XI at Eden Park on August 8, marking the first time a Women’s Super League club competes in New Zealand, supported by the Government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package. This event, part of the International Football Festival, aims to boost Auckland’s economy, create jobs, and showcase New Zealand globally as a premier destination for sport and entertainment. The Government’s investment also supports other major events like concerts and sports tournaments, enhancing tourism and cultural offerings nationwide.
23 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1051 views
Minister for Racing Winston Peters congratulated James McDonald for becoming Australasia’s most successful Group 1 jockey with 130 victories, surpassing Damien Oliver's record. At just 34, McDonald's achievement highlights his exceptional talent, professionalism, and dedication to the sport. Peters emphasized McDonald's status as a global superstar and ambassador for Australasian racing through his strong public connection and partnerships with top trainers.
18 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1883 views
National Green Steel Limited’s structural steel manufacturing plant in Hampton Downs, Waikato, has been approved through the Fast-track process, aiming to produce 200,000 tonnes of recycled steel annually using low-carbon electric arc furnace technology. The project will reduce steel imports, enable local recycling of scrap metal, create about 200 skilled jobs, and support New Zealand’s infrastructure development by strengthening supply chains. This is the 13th project approved under Fast-track and the first infrastructure project involving steel manufacturing, reflecting industry readiness to invest in sustainable infrastructure solutions.
18 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1021 views
The New Zealand government is investing nearly $20 million annually in a new Action Plan to improve addiction support, focusing on early intervention, expanded pregnancy and parenting services, and community-based follow-up for those affected by substance use. Emphasizing the critical first 1000 days of a child's life, the plan aims to prevent harm through early identification and enhanced support for families experiencing alcohol or drug issues. Progress includes a growing addiction workforce and reduced counselor vacancies, reflecting the government's commitment to addressing addiction comprehensively across all stages.
02 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1254 views
The Government is increasing funding to $550,000 per year for the next three years to support Smokefreerockquest and Smokefree Tangata Beats, youth music programs promoting smokefree and vapefree lifestyles. These events have been instrumental in encouraging creativity and wellbeing among young people for 36 years, contributing to a significant decline in smoking and vaping rates among youth. The 2025 editions achieved record participation and audience engagement, highlighting their effectiveness in reaching and influencing young people.
26 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1448 views
New regulations addressing methamphetamine contamination in rental properties will take effect from 16 April 2026, establishing clear, evidence-based thresholds and processes to ensure consistency for landlords and tenants. Properties with residue above 15µg/100cm² must be decontaminated, and if levels exceed 30µg/100cm², tenancy termination options become available, with professional testing aligned to New Zealand Standard 8510:2017 required in certain cases. Developed with expert advice, these rules aim to protect tenant health while minimizing landlord costs, with guidance provided through MBIE’s Tenancy Services website.
18 Feb 2026
8 months ago
1269 views
A new Military Health and Performance Centre, Tû Manawa Ora, has opened at Burnham Military Camp to enhance the health, wellbeing, and operational readiness of New Zealand Defence Force personnel by providing comprehensive medical, rehabilitation, psychological, and training services under one roof. The $22 million facility, completed in 18 months, aims to set a new standard for military healthcare infrastructure, supporting both prevention and treatment to improve retention and performance. Strategically located at the largest South Island military base, the centre reflects a strong commitment to caring for Defence personnel throughout their service and beyond.
26 Jan 2026
9 months ago
3858 views
The World Surf League (WSL) will host its 2026 Championship Tour event, the New Zealand Pro, in Raglan, marking the first combined men’s and women’s WSL event in the country. Scheduled for May 15-25, the competition will feature top surfers at Raglan’s renowned left-hand point break, boosting local tourism and showcasing New Zealand as a premier surf destination. Supported by the Government’s Events Attraction Package, the event aims to stimulate the economy, create jobs, and enhance New Zealand’s global reputation for major cultural and sporting events.
20 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1657 views
Associate Police Minister Casey Costello announced a new all-of-government strategy and action plan to combat Transnational, Serious and Organised Crime (TSOC) in New Zealand, aiming to make the country the hardest place for organised criminal groups to operate. The plan focuses on improving cross-agency coordination, information sharing, addressing methamphetamine harm, and strengthening community resilience through initiatives like ROCC. This five-year strategy responds to increasing organised crime threats, including drug trade and money laundering, and is informed by expert advice to enhance governance, accountability, and resource use across government agencies.
15 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1405 views
Roadside drug testing has begun in the Wellington District as part of a nationwide rollout by mid-2026 to deter drug-impaired driving, targeting substances like cannabis, methamphetamine, MDMA, and cocaine. Police will use saliva-based screening devices at the roadside, with positive tests leading to laboratory analysis and potential penalties including fines, demerit points, and driving prohibitions. Drivers refusing tests face immediate penalties, and prescription or medical notes cannot prevent testing, though medical defenses may be applied after infringement.