04 Aug 2026
2 months ago
638 views
Conservation efforts are underway to save two critically endangered native New Zealand species, Hamilton’s frog and the white-bellied skink, by creating safe backup populations through captive breeding programs at Auckland Zoo and Orana Wildlife Park. Hamilton’s frog populations have declined by about 80%, with remaining wild frogs only on a few islands, while fewer than 100 white-bellied skinks survive in the wild in Canterbury’s high country. These initiatives aim to boost breeding success and eventually reintroduce these species into protected natural habitats to ensure their survival for future generations.
27 Jun 2026
3 months ago
746 views
The New Zealand Government is investing up to $8.6 million to establish Ngāmotu Marae in central New Plymouth, providing Ngāti Te Whiti with a long overdue home and serving as a cultural, social, and economic hub for the wider community. The marae will feature facilities like a wharenui and wharekai, doubling as an emergency lifeline offering food, shelter, and essential services during crises. With a total cost of $17.8 million and multiple co-funders, the project aims to support jobs during construction and foster long-term cultural tourism, local enterprise, and community development.
12 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1118 views
Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds has appointed Scott Haines JP, Principal of Burnside High School, to the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) Board for a three-year term starting July 1, 2026. Haines brings extensive school leadership experience and national contributions, including roles with SPANZ and NCEA advisory groups, which will support TEC’s role in connecting schools, employers, and tertiary organizations. His expertise will help implement the Government’s Tertiary Education Strategy focused on access, participation, and workforce development.
28 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1169 views
Minister for Regulation David Seymour highlights that cutting red tape in New Zealand has generated significant economic benefits, with a return of $11–$17 for every dollar spent, totaling an estimated net public benefit of $223 million to $337 million over 10 years. Examples include lifting bans on medical conferences and revoking unnecessary sector-specific regulations, which have already brought millions in benefits and promise ongoing savings across various industries. The government aims to continue reducing unnecessary regulations to boost productivity, economic growth, and public value through practical reforms and improved regulatory standards.
10 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1367 views
A public reserve named Watts Peninsula, also known as Mātai Moana, will be established on the Miramar Peninsula in Wellington, with significant historical and cultural value. The reserve, promised by the government in 2011, will encompass 72 hectares of land transferred from Land Information New Zealand to the Department of Conservation. Managed by a charitable trust appointed by Wellington City Council, Taranaki Whānui, and DOC, the reserve aims to preserve ecological, historical, and cultural significance, funded by the council and Taranaki Whānui.