22 Oct 2026
1 hour ago
26 views
September’s roll return data tells us what we already knew; families want schooling options that reflect the needs of their children, says Associate Education Minister David Seymour. Data released today shows that as of September 1, 2026, there were 1,965 students enrolled in 19 charter schools, up from 215 students when the first seven schools opened in 2025. On 12 October 2026 Pakaraka School in Northland with 63 students became the first state school to convert to a charter school.
25 Jul 2026
2 months ago
711 views
The New Zealand Government is developing and piloting a new AI tool to modernize the import health standard process while maintaining strict biosecurity protections. This tool aims to streamline the creation of biosecurity rules for imported goods, freeing up staff time and ensuring high-quality, evidence-based standards without compromising safety. The broader reform program seeks to reduce red tape, support farmers and growers, and enhance export growth by enabling smarter approvals and fewer unnecessary restrictions.
19 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1124 views
The Mental Health and Addiction Innovation Fund in New Zealand has entered its third round with changes to increase access, including revising the requirement for an independent Social Return on Investment (SROI) report to a more flexible proposal-based approach. These adjustments respond to sector feedback by lowering barriers such as matched-funding thresholds and allowing community organizations to better demonstrate outcomes while maintaining robust evaluation. With $20 million allocated over two years, the Fund aims to support grassroots initiatives that improve timely access to mental health and addiction services, protect public specialist services, and deliver scalable, evidence-based solutions.
27 Feb 2026
7 months ago
1256 views
New Zealand’s Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) has achieved its strongest rehabilitation performance in over a decade, reducing the growth rate of long-term claims and helping injured New Zealanders return to work and independence faster. This improvement follows a government-mandated Turnaround Plan focused on client-centered care, lasting recovery, and organizational reset, reversing previous increases in long-term claim growth under the Labour government. While progress is evident in the latest public report, the government acknowledges more work is needed to ensure consistent support for claimants and build a better future.
02 Dec 2025
10 months ago
1171 views
Lieutenant General Rhys Jones has been appointed chair of the National War Memorial Advisory Council, bringing extensive military and governance experience from his 35-year Defence Force career and leadership roles in various organizations. He succeeds Fiona Cassidy and will serve until November 30, 2028. Additionally, Staff Sergeant Tina Grant and Colonel (Retired) Roger Howard have been reappointed as Council members with terms ending in 2028 and 2026, respectively.