22 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2748 views
On June 24, 2025, a Ministerial statement on the Middle East was delivered to address the Israel-Iran conflict, emphasizing de-escalation and ceasefire. Despite a ceasefire being brokered by the United States, ongoing suffering and conflict persist in Gaza, with calls for immediate action from the international community. New Zealand stands united with other countries in condemning actions that hinder a two-state solution and advocates for dialogue, diplomacy, and a permanent ceasefire to end the cycle of conflict for future generations.
22 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2524 views
Associate Education Minister David Seymour welcomes Pharmac's new consumer working group to improve its collaboration with health consumers, emphasizing the importance of patient input in decision-making processes. The working group, led by Dr. Malcolm Mulholland, includes members representing various health conditions, aiming to reset the relationship between Pharmac and the consumer community. The government's support includes increased funding for Pharmac to negotiate better deals for medicine and enhance access for patients and their families.
22 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2308 views
The Racing Minister of New Zealand, Winston Peters, emphasizes animal welfare as a priority in planning for the intended end of greyhound racing in the country. An Advisory Committee has presented an interim report outlining the transition process, which includes rehoming plans for the greyhounds currently involved in the sport. The report also addresses concerns about financial support for owners and trainers, with the recommendations set to be reviewed by Cabinet before any decisions are made.
21 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2053 views
The University of Waikato will establish a new medical school with a focus on primary care and rural health, receiving significant funding from the Government and the University. The school will offer a graduate-entry program to attract diverse students and strengthen the medical workforce. This initiative is part of the Government's investment in health system and workforce, adding 120 doctor training places annually from 2028 and contributing to regional development and education in the Waikato.
21 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2119 views
Associate Health Minister David Seymour has outlined clear expectations for Pharmac to enhance innovation and optimize services for better healthcare delivery to New Zealanders. Pharmac has made improvements in consultation processes, funding criteria adjustments, and appointed new leadership to drive positive change. The focus is on modernizing Pharmac, adopting AI technologies, engaging stakeholders proactively, and increasing transparency to ensure timely access to medicines and medical devices for all Kiwis.
21 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2005 views
New data released by Stats NZ today shows inflation at 2.7 per cent for the 12 months to the June 2025 quarter, remaining within the Reserve Bank's target range, according to Finance Minister Nicola Willis. This marks the fourth consecutive quarter of inflation being within the target range, contrasting with previous higher rates under the previous government. Local authority rates and payments were noted as the largest contributor to annual inflation, prompting the government to call for better management to keep rates under control and ensure economic growth for job creation and public services funding.
19 Jul 2025
1 year ago
1967 views
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters condemns Russian Government's malicious cyber activities, supporting UK's stance on the matter. The GRU, Russia's military intelligence agency, has been involved in cyber attacks to support its aggressive actions, prompting international sanctions. New Zealand aligns with the UK in imposing sanctions on entities responsible for Russia's illegal actions, including cyberwarfare units like Sandworm and Fancy Bear.
18 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2244 views
The Government is establishing the New Zealand School Property Agency to address issues in the school property system, including high costs, delays, and inefficiencies. The agency will be a separate entity responsible for planning, building, and maintaining school properties, allowing the Ministry of Education to focus on education policy. The new agency aims to improve project delivery, transparency, and value for money in managing the school property portfolio, with a dedicated board overseeing informed investment decisions.
18 Jul 2025
1 year ago
3124 views
Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced the establishment of the New Zealand Institute for Advanced Technology (NZIAT) to boost high-value exports through breakthrough technologies like AI, quantum computing, and synthetic biology. The Government has committed an initial $231 million over four years to invest in science and technology, develop skills in new technologies, and commercialize innovations. The Institute, based in Auckland with satellite centers, aims to leverage existing strengths in agri-tech and expand into new technologies to drive economic growth and global impact.
18 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2041 views
Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay announced a resolution to a dairy dispute between Canada and New Zealand under the CPTPP, projecting a $157m annual export value increase for New Zealand dairy exporters. New Zealand initiated dispute settlement proceedings due to limited dairy market access in Canada, leading to a favorable ruling and subsequent agreement for improved access through quota adjustments and penalties for misuse. McClay emphasized the importance of upholding CPTPP obligations, praised Canada for constructive engagement, and highlighted the agreement's reinforcement of the rules-based trading system.
17 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2940 views
The Government, led by Disability Minister Louise Upston, is taking steps to enhance the rights of disabled individuals in alignment with international obligations, as announced publicly. Cabinet in New Zealand has agreed on an approach to address 63 recommendations from the UN Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, with details on the recommendations, actions by government agencies, and progress tracking now accessible on the Human Rights Monitor. Multiple agencies are working on 30 recommendations, while 17 are under consideration by the Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha, and an additional 16 recommendations are noted for potential reconsideration by the Government, as efforts continue to drive tangible improvements for the disabled community.
17 Jul 2025
1 year ago
1870 views
Over 80,700 individuals transitioned from benefits to employment in the past year, reflecting the government's focus on facilitating job opportunities despite economic challenges. While the total number of beneficiaries has increased, particularly in Jobseeker Support, this aligns with seasonal trends and the government's efforts to provide enhanced support services for job seekers. Initiatives such as increased case management, community job coaching, and regular work seminars aim to assist individuals in securing and maintaining employment, with a focus on transitioning people off welfare and into work during the economic recovery period.
17 Jul 2025
1 year ago
1717 views
Minister of State for Trade and Investment Nicola Grigg will attend the Pacific Island Forum’s Trade Ministers Meeting in Fiji to discuss the importance of trade for economic growth and prosperity in New Zealand and the Pacific region. The meeting aims to shape the future of trade and economic integration among Pacific Island countries. Ms. Grigg highlights New Zealand's commitment to regional cooperation, resilience, and leadership in advancing Pacific trade priorities, including initiatives such as the Fiji New Zealand Business Council's strategy to increase two-way trade to NZ$2 billion by 2030 and the PACER Plus trade agreement benefiting businesses and promoting investment flows in the region.
16 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2117 views
New Zealand and Malaysia aim to enhance trade in high-quality halal meat products, with Malaysia being a key market for New Zealand's premium halal meat exports. Malaysia is facilitating approvals for New Zealand halal meat premises to gain access to its market, potentially leading to significant growth in exports and benefiting Kiwi farmers and exporters. Both countries are collaborating to streamline export requirements for New Zealand halal meat, emphasizing the importance of compliance with halal standards and strengthening their relationship in halal processing and assurance systems.
16 Jul 2025
1 year ago
2061 views
Transport Minister Chris Bishop announced that major upgrades to State Highway 76 (SH76) Brougham Street in Christchurch will commence to enhance economic growth and improve safety and mobility in the city. The project, funded by the Government, aims to address congestion and safety concerns on one of Christchurch's busiest streets, accommodating over 45,000 vehicles daily and serving as a key freight route to Lyttelton Port. The first stage will focus on constructing a pedestrian and cycle bridge to improve accessibility for school children and individuals with mobility challenges, with subsequent stages including traffic signal improvements, T2 lanes, crossings, and a shared path.