27 Jul 2026
2 months ago
662 views
Over 97,500 New Zealand families have received FamilyBoost payments, which were expanded last year to increase the rebate from 25% to 40%, raise the maximum weekly payment to $120, and extend eligibility to households earning up to $229,000 annually. These changes have resulted in a 70% increase in average payments, helping over 12,000 families each quarter to better manage early childhood education costs and balance work and family life. The government encourages eligible families to register for FamilyBoost, emphasizing its role in supporting working parents and strengthening the economy by easing childcare cost pressures.
29 May 2026
4 months ago
926 views
The Government is supporting Hawke’s Bay growers in exploring a farmer-led purchase of McCain Foods’ vegetable processing site in Hastings by committing $50,000 for a feasibility study. Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has engaged with local stakeholders and directed officials from the Ministry for Primary Industries to gather information and provide ongoing support. The Government aims to assist the more than 100 affected growers and their communities during this challenging time.
26 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1588 views
The Social Investment Fund, recently launched by Social Investment Minister Nicola Willis, targets children facing challenging family or educational circumstances, including those with parents in jail or who have been in the care system. Data-driven evidence supports early intervention for these children to improve outcomes and reduce long-term government costs. The Fund, with a budget of $190 million over four years, aims to invest in effective strategies, empower community organizations, and measure the impact of interventions transparently.