19 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1075 views
New Zealand has passed the Crimes (Countering Foreign Interference) Amendment Bill to better protect the country from deceptive, corruptive, or coercive foreign activities aimed at manipulating society. The legislation creates new offences specifically criminalizing foreign interference and updates existing laws related to espionage and wrongful communication of government information. While normal diplomatic and transparent engagements remain unaffected, the government emphasizes that foreign interference will no longer be tolerated.
14 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1214 views
Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced that Great South will receive $393,000 to launch a campaign promoting the Southern Way and the region's hospitality to international visitors. The investment aims to showcase the lower South Island's unique experiences, wild beauty, rich flavors, and warm hospitality to new audiences. Led by Great South and regional partners, the campaign will target Australian travelers, particularly those from the Gold Coast, encouraging them to explore iconic destinations like Milford Sound, the Catlins coastline, and Dunedin, while highlighting the region's local events and genuine southern hospitality.
09 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1120 views
The New Zealand Government, led by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith, has approved a comprehensive action plan to combat the increasing harm caused by methamphetamine in society, with a focus on reducing crime victimization. Key initiatives include a nationwide media campaign, increased funding for community services, and enhanced enforcement measures to disrupt organized crime networks. Additional funding will support offshore liaison positions, money laundering teams, and community-led responses to combat the harms of meth and organized crime.
05 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1254 views
The House has approved the appointment of High Court Judge Hon Justice Timothy Brewer as the next Inspector-General of Defence and barrister Natalie Pierce as the Deputy. Justice Brewer, a former Brigadier in the NZ Army, will retire on November 15 and assume the IGD role on December 1. Ms. Pierce, with expertise in criminal law and human rights, will start her role on November 10. Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith also acknowledged the contributions of Brendan Horsley, who held the IGD role concurrently with his role as Inspector-General of Intelligence and Security, in establishing the office and providing oversight.
05 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1186 views
New Zealand's Resources Minister Shane Jones highlights the country's potential gains from the global interest in gold and minerals, emphasizing the economic opportunities presented by a significant gold discovery in Central Otago. The mining permit granted to Matakanui Gold Limited for the Rise and Shine prospect is expected to create jobs, boost local economies, and generate substantial revenues for the government through royalties and taxes. The government's commitment to utilizing mineral resources for regional development, job creation, and economic prosperity is underscored by the fast-track approval process for mining projects like Bendigo-Ophir and the financing of the Snowy River Gold Mine development by Endura Mining.
05 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1124 views
The Crown has settled 14 years of negotiations with Ngāti Paoa, acknowledging historical breaches including raupatu and land laws impacting the iwi's development. The settlement includes a financial redress of $23.5 million, cultural redress with 12 significant sites, and agreements with Crown agencies. Ngāti Paoa's engagement in the legislative process and hope for a thriving future were highlighted during the final reading in Parliament.
23 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1225 views
The Disputes Tribunal's financial jurisdiction will double to $60,000, aiming to expedite civil cases and enhance affordability for New Zealanders, as noted by Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith. Approximately 2,000 claims yearly are projected to benefit from this increase, aiding new claimants and those who might have previously adjusted their claims due to jurisdiction limitations. Efforts to improve access to justice include upcoming legislation that would require respondents to reimburse successful applicants for filing fees, addressing cost barriers for individuals seeking resolution without incurring high legal expenses.
17 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1304 views
Andrew Wilson, a former investment banker with extensive experience in global markets, has been appointed to the Board of the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation, overseeing the $85 billion Superannuation Fund. Prior to this role, Wilson held key positions at institutions like the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Bank of England, and Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Acting Finance Minister Chris Bishop highlighted Wilson's valuable expertise in investment management and global markets, emphasizing his potential to make a significant impact on the Guardians' work. Wilson's official appointment to the Board is scheduled to commence on 20 October.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1135 views
Dr Mark Hickford has been appointed to the Law Commission for a five-year term and will serve as President for six months, according to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith. Hickford's exceptional legal background and management skills make him a valuable addition to the Commission. He will initially work part-time while fulfilling a commitment with Te Puni Kōkiri, and will serve as President for six months until a new President is confirmed.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1009 views
Legislation passing third reading in Parliament today will eliminate advertising restrictions for broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays, according to Media Minister Paul Goldsmith. The aim is to ensure local media companies are not disadvantaged compared to digital streaming platforms. The change is expected to generate around $6 million annually and is seen as necessary due to the increasing popularity of streaming services like YouTube in New Zealand.
12 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1254 views
The Government is expanding its trial of clamping or seizing cars of individuals who fail to pay court fines, having already returned over $225,000 and seized 115 vehicles. The initiative aims to enforce payment of court fines effectively, with 982 people identified as having overdue fines or reparations, resulting in 278 immediate payments and 127 setting up payment arrangements. The success of the trial has led to the recovery of funds and the decision to expand the program, with plans to increase the number of number plate scanners in operation nationwide.
30 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1348 views
Andrew Barclay has been appointed as the new TVNZ Board Chair by Minister for Media and Communications Paul Goldsmith, with a professional career in global investment banking. His skills will provide strong oversight of financial performance and strategic decision-making for TVNZ. Barclay will join the TVNZ Board on November 3, succeeding Alastair Carruthers, who has chaired the Board since 2023.
26 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1312 views
The Government has concluded 15 years of negotiations with Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu by signing a Deed of Settlement in Wellington, including financial and cultural redress of $5.5 million and the return of 17 cultural sites. The settlement aims to address historical injustices, support the iwi's aspirations, and promote prosperity for future generations. Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu's historical grievances involve land confiscation, Crown purchasing, and mining, leading to economic, social, and cultural challenges. Legislation will be introduced to Parliament to enact the settlement into law, and the deed of settlement is available online at Te Tari Whakatau - Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu.
19 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1299 views
Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Paul Goldsmith announces up to $300,000 in contestable funding available for community events celebrating Waitangi Day and the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. The Commemorating Waitangi Day Fund aims to support events that reflect on New Zealand's shared history and cultural contributions, bringing communities together to recognize all aspects of national identity. The Fund encourages new applicants to propose innovative ways for communities to participate in Waitangi Day events, with applications closing on October 20, 2025.
18 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1193 views
Andrew Szusterman has been appointed to the Radio New Zealand Board of Governors by Minister for Media and Communications Paul Goldsmith. Szusterman, an experienced media executive, has worked in television, commercial radio, and digital platforms in New Zealand and abroad. His expertise in audience engagement and understanding of the evolving media landscape will be valuable as RNZ faces challenges in public broadcasting and adjusts to changing audience behaviors. Szusterman will officially join the Board on October 1st.