19 Aug 2026
2 months ago
616 views
Associate Health Minister David Seymour praises Pharmac’s progress in responding to the 2025/26 Letter of Expectations, highlighting improvements in patient involvement, timeliness of decision-making, and sector collaboration. Key achievements include trialling streamlined assessment pathways, enhancing consumer engagement, updating rare disorder policies, and advancing digital investments, all contributing to a clear multi-year organisational improvement programme. While progress is noted as impressive and transparency has increased, Seymour emphasizes that continued efforts to listen to patients and improve access to medicines remain essential.
18 Aug 2026
2 months ago
783 views
The New Zealand Government has launched a $1.5 million Poultry Biosecurity Grant to help small to medium-sized poultry operators prepare for the potential arrival of H5 bird flu by funding up to 50% of biosecurity improvements. This grant supports infrastructure upgrades, bird-proofing, cleaning facilities, and development of biosecurity plans, aiming to protect jobs, livelihoods, and the domestic food supply ahead of new regulations effective by the end of 2026. With two confirmed H5 detections but no poultry outbreaks, the government emphasizes strong biosecurity as a key defense and encourages applications by 30 September 2026.
18 Aug 2026
2 months ago
826 views
The New Zealand Government has launched a $1.5 million Poultry Biosecurity Grant to help small to medium-sized poultry operators prepare for the possible arrival of H5 bird flu by funding up to 50% of costs for biosecurity improvements. This grant supports infrastructure upgrades, bird-proofing, cleaning facilities, and development of required biosecurity plans ahead of new regulations effective by the end of 2026. With two confirmed H5 detections but no poultry outbreaks, the initiative aims to protect jobs, food supply, and the poultry sector from this ongoing biosecurity threat.
17 Aug 2026
2 months ago
589 views
Forestry Minister Todd McClay has appointed Doug Leeder as a Facilitator to advise the Government on addressing forestry challenges in Tairāwhiti, focusing on consenting complexities and land use changes. The government aims to reset the relationship between Gisborne District Council and stakeholders to support sustainable forestry management, jobs, and local businesses while ensuring compliance measures are workable and proportionate. Building on the progress of the Tairāwhiti Forestry Action Group, the Facilitator will help accelerate clean-up efforts, improve collaboration, and guide decisions to benefit forestry, the environment, and the community.
13 Aug 2026
2 months ago
722 views
The New Zealand Infrastructure Commission's latest update reveals the National Infrastructure Pipeline's value has risen by $15 billion to $290 billion, with fully funded projects increasing by $4.5 billion to $95.8 billion. The pipeline includes nearly 12,500 projects across sectors like healthcare, roads, water, and schools, reflecting sustained momentum and improved planning that supports economic growth and job creation. Additionally, $17.5 billion in initiatives are progressing through planning to start construction within the next year, signaling ongoing investment and development nationwide.
12 Aug 2026
2 months ago
590 views
The Government has allocated $30 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support projects that grow New Zealand's hydrogen sector, emphasizing hydrogen's potential to diversify renewable energy and reduce emissions in heavy transport and industry. This initiative complements existing renewable resources, aims to enhance energy security, and encourages innovation and private investment, particularly in regional areas. Additionally, the Government is developing a regulatory framework for emerging white and orange hydrogen industries to provide clarity and attract further investment.
12 Aug 2026
2 months ago
616 views
The Government has allocated $30 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support projects aimed at growing New Zealand’s hydrogen sector, emphasizing its potential to enhance renewable energy, reduce emissions, and improve energy security. Minister Shane Jones highlighted hydrogen’s role in heavy transport and industry where electrification is less viable, and noted ongoing efforts to establish regulatory frameworks for white and orange hydrogen development. This funding package aims to foster innovation, attract private investment, and strengthen regional economic growth through emerging hydrogen technologies.
11 Aug 2026
2 months ago
611 views
The Government, led by Associate Agriculture Minister Mike Butterick, is seeking feedback on proposals to strengthen New Zealand’s organic sector through a modern regulatory framework, including a national organic mark and updated regulations. The organic sector is valued at $1.18 billion with significant exports, and the new Organic Products and Production Act 2023 aims to boost consumer confidence, business certainty, and international trade. Ongoing consultation with the organic community ensures the regulations support growth and reflect stakeholder input, with detailed proposals available on the Ministry for Primary Industries website.
03 Aug 2026
2 months ago
548 views
Directors Whaimutu Dewes and Owen Coppage have been reappointed to the Transpower Board until 2029 to provide governance continuity during a $13 billion investment programme. Dewes offers expertise in governance, risk management, and stakeholder relations, while Coppage brings skills in energy utilities, technology, and digital transformation. Additionally, Rukumoana Schaafhausen was reappointed to Kiwi Group Capital’s board, bringing extensive commercial and Crown governance experience in the banking sector.
28 Jul 2026
2 months ago
788 views
The Government is introducing mandatory biosecurity regulations for poultry farms with over 100 birds to manage H5 bird flu, requiring farm-specific plans, record-keeping, and audits to protect livelihoods and food supply. These regulations, approved by Cabinet and developed with industry cooperation, aim to enhance on-farm readiness and provide flexibility in managing infection risks while ensuring humane practices. The new rules, supported by industry feedback, will be implemented by the end of 2026 to safeguard poultry, trade, wildlife, and public health.
28 Jul 2026
2 months ago
856 views
The Government is introducing mandatory biosecurity regulations for poultry operators with over 100 birds to manage H5 bird flu, requiring farm biosecurity plans, record-keeping, audits, and clear response strategies. These regulations aim to enhance on-farm readiness, protect farmers' livelihoods, secure the domestic food supply, and mitigate risks from widespread infection in wild birds. Developed in collaboration with industry and supported by MPI, the regulations will be finalized and implemented by the end of 2026.
25 Jul 2026
3 months ago
732 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.
21 Jul 2026
3 months ago
687 views
One year after launching A Minerals Strategy for New Zealand to 2040, the government has made significant progress by implementing policies and reforms that have increased mineral exports, production, employment, and permitting activity. Key achievements include establishing a Critical Minerals List, enhancing global partnerships, improving geoscience data access, and creating a more efficient regulatory framework, which have boosted investor confidence and sector growth. Moving forward, the focus will be on expanding international partnerships, attracting investment, reviewing royalty settings, and maximizing value from critical minerals through processing, refining, and innovation to sustain long-term economic benefits.
15 Jul 2026
3 months ago
666 views
John Harbord has been appointed Chair of the Electricity Authority for a three-year term, bringing over 20 years of experience in law, governance, and public sector policy. Energy Minister Simeon Brown emphasized the Authority's role in ensuring an abundant, affordable, and reliable electricity supply that supports economic growth. Harbord succeeds Erik Westergaard, who will remain on the board as Deputy Chair.
13 Jul 2026
3 months ago
777 views
Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has welcomed new Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) guidelines designed to simplify the Overseas Investment Act for international investors, particularly in the supermarket and grocery sector, aiming to attract credible investors and increase market competition. The government has also reformed application processing, significantly reducing average assessment times from 71 to 23 working days and meeting targets of five or fewer days for most investments, thereby streamlining approval processes. These changes are intended to boost international investment, which is vital for New Zealand’s economic growth, productivity, and job creation.