03 Nov 2026
2 hours ago
36 views
The Government is continuing its support for regional air services, with Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Associate Transport Minister James Meager announcing an $845,000 loan to Hawke’s Bay airline Air Napier. The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) loan will help Air Napier undertake essential upgrades to its fleet and refinance some existing debt. “Air Napier plays an important role in supporting businesses across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti, and helping people access essential services,” Mr Jones says.
04 May 2026
6 months ago
1068 views
New Zealand and Singapore have signed the Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies (AOTES) to ensure the uninterrupted movement of critical goods like fuel and food by preventing export restrictions between the two nations. This world-first agreement, built on cooperation during the COVID-19 pandemic, formalizes practical collaboration to enhance supply chain resilience amid global volatility. Incorporated into their existing Free Trade Agreement, AOTES reflects their commitment to reliable access to essential supplies during crises and strengthens their trusted partnership.
02 Apr 2026
7 months ago
1272 views
Home and community support workers in New Zealand will receive a temporary 30% increase in mileage rates, from 63.5 to 82.5 cents per kilometre, to help offset rising fuel costs caused by global conflicts. This increase, effective immediately and lasting up to 12 months or until petrol prices drop below $3 per litre for four consecutive weeks, applies to workers contracted to Health New Zealand, the Ministry of Social Development, and ACC. Health Minister Simeon Brown emphasized that this targeted support ensures the continuity of essential healthcare services for vulnerable New Zealanders by easing cost pressures on frontline workers.
10 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1385 views
New Zealand and Singapore have strengthened their trade relationship through the launch of a Strategic Food Partnership and the Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies, announced by Minister Todd McClay. The Strategic Food Partnership aims to enhance agrifood trade, facilitate the movement of high-quality food, and promote investment and innovation in the primary and food production sectors. The Agreement on Trade in Essential Supplies ensures the continuous flow of goods like food and fuel during crises, with a crisis-response arrangement to prevent export curbs and support supply chain resilience.