15 May 2026
5 months ago
1007 views
Space Minister Chris Penk announced the first recipients of the Kiwi Space Activator pilot programme, awarding $1.48 million to Dawn Aerospace, the University of Canterbury, and the University of Auckland for innovative space technology projects. These initiatives address government-identified challenges, enhance New Zealand’s space innovation reputation, and include educational components to inspire future innovators. The programme aims to reduce barriers for testing new space technologies, with funding increased to $2.08 million for rounds one and two, and applications for round two closing on May 25, 2026.
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.
07 May 2026
5 months ago
1117 views
The New Zealand Government is advancing plans to replace its aging Anzac-class frigates by the mid-2030s to maintain and enhance maritime security vital to the nation's economy and safety. As part of the Maritime Fleet Renewal programme, discussions are underway with the Royal Australian and United Kingdom navies to consider interoperable, combat-capable vessels like the Japanese Mogami-class and UK Type 31 frigates, with a final decision expected by 2027. Meanwhile, efforts continue to keep the current fleet operational, ensuring the Defence Force remains equipped to protect New Zealand’s interests, support partners, and respond to maritime challenges.
01 May 2026
5 months ago
930 views
New rules effective from May 2 mandate that all plumbing products in new buildings or renovations must be lead-free and resistant to dezincification to protect drinking water quality. The regulation aims to reduce health risks associated with lead exposure and has been supported by the plumbing industry, with minimal expected cost increases. Existing plumbing does not require replacement, but residents are advised to flush taps regularly to ensure water safety.
28 Apr 2026
5 months ago
1084 views
The Coalition Government is expanding the granny flat building consent exemption to enable faster construction, more homeowner choices, and inclusion of off-site building methods, while maintaining safety and quality standards. Key changes include allowing off-site construction of consent-exempt granny flats before a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) is issued and expanding exemptions to include Structural Insulated Panels with CodeMark certification. These reforms, supported by multiple ministers, aim to cut red tape, reduce costs, and boost productivity in the housing sector, with new rules expected by Q3 2026.
24 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1004 views
Veterans Affairs has increased private vehicle mileage reimbursement rates by 50 percent to help veterans manage rising fuel costs when traveling for treatment. This temporary measure, funded within the existing budget, applies until petrol prices drop below $3 per litre for four consecutive weeks and aims to ensure veterans continue accessing essential care. The government emphasizes supporting veterans amid global fuel price volatility, prioritizing those with limited transport alternatives.
23 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1004 views
Defence Minister Chris Penk is visiting Australia to strengthen defence cooperation with New Zealand’s military ally and discuss developing a more integrated Anzac force. During his trip, he will meet with Australian Defence officials, visit New Zealand Defence personnel, and participate in Anzac commemorations marking 75 years of the alliance. The visit underscores the ongoing collaboration between the two militaries and the commitment to enhancing their partnership as outlined in the Anzac 2035 agreement.
23 Apr 2026
6 months ago
985 views
The New Zealand government is expanding a self-certification scheme allowing licensed plumbers and drainlayers to sign off their own work, covering most residential plumbing and some commercial jobs to reduce inspection delays and boost productivity. The scheme, overseen by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board, ensures qualified practitioners maintain standards while protecting public health and safety, with Building Consent Authorities reviewing higher-risk work. Expected to be implemented before the General Election, the voluntary program aims to simplify the building consent system, support rural communities, and enable faster, more efficient completion of essential plumbing tasks.
02 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1129 views
The New Zealand Government will introduce a Bill to amend the Crown Pastoral Land Act and Land Act, allowing high country farmers more flexibility to diversify activities on Crown pastoral land, including horticulture, hospitality, and renewable energy projects. These changes aim to boost economic productivity, create jobs, and increase returns for taxpayers while maintaining strong environmental protections and pastoral farming as the primary land use. The Bill also reduces administrative burdens, clarifies permitted activities, and provides a pathway for exceptional land use changes, supporting modern, productive farming businesses in the South Island.
02 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1181 views
The New Zealand Government will introduce a Bill to amend the Crown Pastoral Land Act and Land Act, allowing high country farmers greater flexibility to diversify activities on Crown pastoral land, including horticulture, hospitality, and renewable energy projects. These changes aim to boost economic productivity, increase returns for taxpayers, support job creation, and strengthen regional economies while maintaining environmental protections and pastoral farming as the primary land use. The Bill also reduces administrative burdens, clarifies permitted activities, and establishes a process for exceptional land use changes, encouraging modern, productive farming businesses in the South Island.
02 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1234 views
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced a refreshed ministerial lineup to address economic challenges and enhance New Zealand's future, including key appointments such as Chris Penk to Defence and Penny Simmonds to Tertiary Education and Science. The reshuffle elevates the Energy portfolio due to recent security concerns and assigns new responsibilities to ministers like Chris Bishop as Attorney-General and Simon Watts as Minister for Auckland. Luxon also acknowledged the long service of Judith Collins and Shane Reti, who are leaving Parliament, and expressed gratitude for their contributions.
01 Apr 2026
6 months ago
1075 views
Open Banking will be expanded to business banking channels, enabling businesses to share banking data with trusted providers to access faster loan comparisons, automated accounting, and improved cashflow management. This initiative aims to save businesses time on administrative tasks, boost competition, and enhance productivity, particularly benefiting small businesses by providing clearer financial insights and reducing manual work. While large corporates are exempt due to limited demand, the government prioritizes Open Banking as a key tool to support small business growth and efficiency.
26 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1188 views
Stats NZ is transitioning over 60 business surveys to an online platform starting August 2026 to reduce the administrative burden on businesses and modernize data collection. This shift, praised by Statistics Minister Dr Shane Reti and Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk, particularly benefits small businesses by making survey completion faster, more convenient, and less disruptive. The move aims to improve response rates and ensure timely, accurate insights for policymaking while allowing businesses to focus on growth.
17 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1218 views
The Cabinet has approved the Terms of Reference and membership for a Government Inquiry into the fatal landslides in Tauranga that killed eight people on 22 January 2026, aiming to determine how the events occurred, assess agency responses, and identify lessons to prevent future tragedies. The Inquiry will be led by retired Supreme Court Judge Sir Mark O’Regan, with experts Dr Helen Anderson and Steve Symon supporting, and will maintain respectful communication with victims' families throughout the process. It will begin gathering evidence on 30 March and must deliver its final report with recommendations by 3 December 2026.
05 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1424 views
New Zealand has approved its second private Building Consent Authority (BCA), Farsight NZ Limited Partnership, to increase competition and capacity in the building consent system, aiming to reduce paperwork and speed up approvals. Farsight will manage key building control tasks for Summerset, a major residential builder, which will help alleviate pressure on council BCAs and improve consistency in applying the Building Code. All BCAs, including private ones, must meet strict accreditation and legal requirements to ensure strong consumer protections and efficient service delivery.