Articles tagged with Uri

Showing 15 of 269 articles

Regional Infrastructure Fund Boosts Horticulture Expansion in Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

The Regional Infrastructure Fund is providing $24.62 million to boost horticulture expansion in Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti through water storage, flood resilience, and Māori land projects, aiming to enhance regional economies, employment, and export growth while improving resilience to economic shocks and extreme weather events. Specific projects include establishing high-value horticulture on Māori land in Tairāwhiti, expanding water storage capacity in Hawke’s Bay, replenishing the Makauri aquifer in Tairāwhiti, and developing water storage infrastructure for pipfruit orchards. These investments aim to strengthen regional resilience and productivity, with a focus on supporting the regions' economic growth and success.

Energy Minister Simon Watts Joins APEC Leaders in Busan for Energy Security Discussions

Energy Minister Simon Watts will attend the 15th APEC Energy Ministers Meeting in Busan, Republic of Korea, focusing on energy security and affordability. He aims to collaborate internationally to build resilient and sustainable energy systems in the Asia-Pacific region and discuss harnessing energy innovation. Key topics at the meeting include electricity expansion, grid security, reliability, and AI-driven energy innovation, with a focus on connecting with counterparts to advance shared energy goals.

New Zealand to Host World Triathlon Events in Tauranga 2026-2028

Tauranga will host a series of World Triathlon events over three years starting in 2026, including the 2028 World Triathlon Championship Finals, with an expected 6000 international visitors generating $25 million in tourism revenue. The Government is investing $2.65 million to support Tri NZ in hosting these events, aiming to attract over 4500 international competitors for the 2028 World Championship final. These events will be broadcast live to a global audience, showcasing New Zealand's strong history in triathlon and promoting sport tourism.

Papua New Guinea's Golden Jubilee: New Zealand's Friendship and Future

The content highlights the visit and address of the Prime Minister of New Zealand to the Papua New Guinea National Parliament in celebration of the upcoming 50th Anniversary of Independence. The speech emphasizes the longstanding friendship between the two countries, shared historical ties, development partnerships, and the importance of regional cooperation in the Pacific. The Prime Minister acknowledges Papua New Guinea's ambitious and courageous spirit, its progress in democracy, and the potential for further collaboration in trade, defense, cultural exchange, and addressing global challenges.

Genesis, Mercury, Meridian, and Contact Establish Strategic Energy Reserve to Boost Energy Security and Affordability in New Zealand

Energy Ministers Simon Watts and Shane Jones welcome the establishment of a strategic energy reserve by major power companies in New Zealand to enhance energy security and maintain affordable prices. The initiative aims to address vulnerabilities in the energy system highlighted by last year's dry winter, which led to high prices and pressure on industries and households. The government is taking steps to strengthen the energy system by ensuring fuel supply security, supporting investment, and enhancing market competition to reduce costs and promote economic growth.

New Zealand to Boost Economy and Jobs by Expanding Access to Conservation Areas

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Conservation Minister Tama Potaka announced plans to stimulate economic growth on a third of New Zealand's land, aiming to create jobs and boost wages nationwide. They highlighted issues with the current concessions regime for businesses operating on conservation land, proposing to reform the Conservation Act to streamline processes and introduce charges for foreign visitors at popular sites. The revenue generated from these charges, estimated at up to $62 million annually, will be reinvested in maintaining and enhancing conservation areas, while ensuring free access for New Zealanders.

New Zealand Petroleum Exploration Permits Open in September: Crown Minerals Amendment Bill Impact

The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill, following its third reading, will allow operators to apply for new petroleum exploration permits starting in September. The Bill removes the ban on oil and gas exploration beyond onshore Taranaki, introduces a new tier of permit for small-scale non-commercial gold mining, and aims to boost investment in Crown-owned minerals. Changes in liability for decommissioning costs and the need for clarity in regulatory burden and risk are also addressed in the Bill to enhance investor confidence and energy security.

Transforming New Zealand's Import Health Standards for Enhanced Efficiency and Biosecurity Protection

The New Zealand Government is modernizing the import health system to reduce the time it takes to develop Import Health Standards (IHSs) while maintaining strong biosecurity protections. A regulatory efficiency program is underway, utilizing generative artificial intelligence to streamline the IHS development process. Pilot projects, such as the reform of the Plant Nursery Stock import system, aim to provide faster approvals for imported goods and support growth and productivity while safeguarding biosecurity.

$4.5 Million Investment to Boost Rural Tourism and Create Jobs

A $4.5 million investment in developing tourism at culturally significant sites aims to create jobs and boost rural economies, expanding the Tohu Whenua program to more regions. Tohu Whenua enhances visitor experiences by sharing unique cultural heritage stories and improving facilities. The program, a partnership between Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and DOC, has seen significant increases in visitation at sites and is set to expand to Manawatū-Whanganui and Murihiku Southland regions.

Boosting Sustainable Tourism with $17.5M Investment in Natural Attractions

The $17.5 million investment in sustainable tourism aims to boost regional economies by supporting jobs and incomes at popular natural attractions in New Zealand. The funding will improve visitor planning and management at key sites like Aoraki Mount Cook National Park and Milford Sound, ensuring the conservation areas continue to attract tourists with stunning nature. Additionally, investments in Great Walks and DOC campsites will enhance service and management, contributing to the country's economic growth driven by tourism expenditure of $44.4 billion and over 300,000 jobs.

Government Funding Boost to Combat Invasive Weeds in NZ Tourist Landscapes

Conservation Minister Tama Potaka highlights the importance of eradicating invasive weeds to benefit tourism and rural businesses in New Zealand. The government is investing in early detection technology and allocating funds from the International Visitor Levy to protect iconic landscapes like Abel Tasman, Aoraki/Mt Cook, and Tongariro. Additional funding is directed towards combating wilding pines and other significant weeds, aiming to safeguard the environment, economy, and biodiversity of the country.

New Zealand Bolsters Cybercrime Protection with Budapest Convention Passage

New Zealand passes legislation to enhance protection against cybercrime, with 11% of citizens falling victim to online threats in 2024, resulting in significant emotional and financial harm. Joining the Budapest Convention will enable cooperation with other countries in criminal investigations and align domestic laws with international standards. Provisions in the Bill include new preservation directions, amendments to enhance mutual assistance in criminal matters, and updates to the Crimes Act to address cybercrime comprehensively.

‘Everyone Must Go’ Campaign Drives Surge in Australian Tourism to New Zealand

The 'Everyone Must Go' campaign in New Zealand exceeded expectations, bringing in over 7,981 additional visitors and generating significant attention on both sides of the Tasman. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston highlights the campaign's success in boosting regional economies and tourism operators through collaboration between the sector and government. The campaign's strong results led to further investment, showcasing the positive impact of targeted marketing efforts on driving economic growth and supporting the tourism industry.

New Zealand Passes Ground-Based Space Infrastructure Legislation for National Security

New Zealand's Parliament has passed legislation under urgency to regulate ground-based space infrastructure, enhancing national security and protecting against foreign interference, according to Space Minister Judith Collins. The Outer Space High Altitude Activities Amendment Bill aims to ensure the safe and responsible use of space, with oversight and safeguards for satellite operations starting from 29 July. Operators will need to meet security requirements and undergo due diligence to obtain authorisation, with enforcement powers in place to address any national security concerns.

New Zealand Fuel Security Plan: Ensuring Reliable Access to Fuel for Economic Resilience

The Coalition Government is seeking feedback on a draft Fuel Security Plan to ensure reliable fuel access for New Zealanders during disruptions, focusing on improving resilience, infrastructure, low-carbon alternatives, and managing the transition to new energy technologies. Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones emphasizes the importance of fuel security for economic and national resilience, highlighting recent measures to boost reserves and improve storage locations. Public submissions on the plan are open from July 15 to August 25, with feedback accepted through the MBIE website.