14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1357 views
The Government has selected Guangzhou Shipyard International to build two new ferries through Ferry Holdings Limited. Rail Minister Winston Peters highlighted GSI's expertise and capabilities as a leading shipbuilding enterprise in Southern China. Negotiations are ongoing, with details to be disclosed upon completion, including agreements with CentrePort Limited and Port Marlborough New Zealand Limited, aiming for completion in 2029 with cost-effective solutions to benefit New Zealand taxpayers.
09 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1138 views
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters welcomes the first phase of the US-led peace deal between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing the need to end the suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians over the past two years. He commends the efforts of the negotiating parties, including the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, for taking a leadership role in the process. Peters urges Hamas to release all hostages and Israel to withdraw troops, emphasizing the importance of delivering on promises for lasting peace and calling for continued efforts towards a complete resolution.
06 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1224 views
The New Zealand Government has paid the Government of Samoa 10 million Samoan Tala (approximately NZD 6 million) as a response to the sinking of HMNZS Manawanui last year. All 75 passengers and crew survived the incident that occurred off the Safata District coastline in Samoa. Foreign Minister Winston Peters stated that New Zealand is working with Samoa to minimize environmental impacts and support the response, following a comprehensive Court of Inquiry into the incident.
03 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1365 views
The completion of Port Otago’s container terminal rail siding is a significant milestone for the Southern Link Logistics Park partnership, according to Rail Minister Winston Peters and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones. The $13.5 million rail siding at Port Chalmers in Dunedin is crucial for the Southern Link Logistics Park inland port near Mosgiel, facilitating more efficient freight movement between the two sites. The project is expected to reduce truck trips, support regional economies, and improve productivity, with additional funding secured for further rail infrastructure development in the region.
27 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1167 views
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced at the UN General Assembly that the country will not recognize the State of Palestine due to ongoing conflicts and uncertainties about the future state. New Zealand remains a strong advocate for the two-state solution and Palestinian self-determination, emphasizing the need for dialogue, diplomacy, and leadership to resolve the situation. The government is committed to providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, calling for an immediate ceasefire, adherence to international law, and an end to illegal settlement activities by Israel.
19 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1166 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters is attending the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York to reflect on the international rules-based system and advocate for reforms to address global challenges. He will participate in the Two State Solution conference, hold bilateral meetings, and deliver New Zealand’s national statement to the UN General Assembly. Peters will also gather information on conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, South Sudan, and Myanmar, including finalizing New Zealand’s position on the recognition of Palestine during his visit from September 21 to September 30.
18 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1261 views
The new Third Main Line in Auckland, funded in 2020 with a $328 million investment, is set to revolutionize rail freight and increase the frequency of passenger trains, according to Rail Minister Winston Peters and Transport Minister Chris Bishop. The opening event in South Auckland included a passenger train journey along the 6.5km line from Wiri to Middlemore Station. This project aims to alleviate congestion on roads, boost efficiency in freight connections, and enhance transport options for Aucklanders, complementing other recent investments in the city's transport network.
17 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1353 views
The 2024/25-2026/27 Rail Network Investment Programme, led by Rail Minister Winston Peters, allocates $1.360 billion over three years for infrastructure projects benefiting provincial New Zealand. The focus is on rebuilding railways to enhance economic efficiency and connectivity, with detailed regional summaries outlining extensive track maintenance and upgrades across the country. The investment includes new train control centers, wagons, locomotives, and ferries, emphasizing the importance of ongoing infrastructure maintenance and renewal to support a thriving rail network.
12 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1321 views
New Zealand's Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Opposition Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Peeni Henare will attend Papua New Guinea's 50th independence anniversary celebrations in Port Moresby next week, marking a significant milestone in the two countries' relationship. New Zealand has been a longstanding supporter of Papua New Guinea since its independence in 1975, and values the close ties between the two nations. The visit aims to strengthen collaboration and support for Papua New Guinea's priorities, contributing to a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Pacific region.
12 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1320 views
New Zealand has joined Canada, the EU, and the UK in lowering the price cap on Russian crude oil to USD $47.60 per barrel to cut off funding for Putin's war in Ukraine. Additionally, New Zealand has sanctioned Russian actors involved in cyber-attacks, including military intelligence Unit 29155, for using malware against Ukrainian government networks. These sanctions mark New Zealand's 32nd round, targeting individuals, entities, vessels, and shadow fleet vessels involved in chemical weapons, disinformation, and illicit activities in North Korea and Iran.
03 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1381 views
Ferry Holdings has secured a preferred shipbuilder for two new ferries to serve passengers, road, and rail for the next 30 years, with a fixed price and completion in 2029. Rail Minister Winston Peters praised the swift procurement process and highlighted the importance of the letter of intent signed for technical negotiations. The new ferries will have specific dimensions, capacities, power, and safety features to ensure efficient and environmentally friendly transportation across the Cook Strait for the next three decades.
28 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1396 views
Rail Minister Winston Peters announced an increased annual contribution to the Rail Heritage Trust of New Zealand for restoring rail heritage buildings and structures. The Trust has restored various railway sites, including the Cass railway station, and aims to support more with local financial and volunteer help. KiwiRail is also repairing the historic rail footbridge at Moana and considering transferring ownership of the Mataura Railway Station to the Trust for restoration.
21 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1669 views
Seahawk helicopters and Airbus planes are set to replace aging New Zealand Defence Force aircraft as part of the Government’s Defence Capability Plan, with a $2.7 billion investment announced by Defence Minister Judith Collins and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters. The MH-60R Seahawk will replace maritime helicopters, while the Airbus A321XLR will replace the aging 757 fleet, aiming to enhance combat capability and respond to international events. These investments are part of the $12 billion planned commitments outlined in the 2025 DCP, reflecting the Government's response to the deteriorating security environment and the need for reliable aircraft for military operations and humanitarian aid.
20 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1759 views
Cabinet in New Zealand has officially agreed to close the greyhound racing industry, with a bill being drafted to enact this decision by July 31, 2026, following concerns about animal welfare and safety issues outlined in multiple reviews. The Ministerial Advisory Committee has recommended a clear plan for transitioning away from greyhound racing, including re-homing programs and support for industry participants through a Transition Agency funded by the TAB. Racing Minister Winston Peters emphasizes the importance of public input during the process, highlighting the global trend of phasing out greyhound racing due to ongoing welfare and safety concerns.
19 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1584 views
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced three new diplomatic appointments: Joanna Kempkers as Ambassador to France, Greg Andrews as High Commissioner to Fiji, and Angela Hassan-Sharp as Ambassador to Ireland. Peters made the appointments to strengthen diplomatic relations with these countries. The new ambassadors will represent New Zealand's interests and foster positive relationships in their respective postings.