15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1696 views
The nationwide breast screening age extension is progressing, with women aged 70 and 74 now eligible for free screening, marking the first step in a four-year rollout to include women aged 71 to 73 in subsequent years. The initiative aims to provide around 130,000 more women with screening every two years, allowing for early detection of breast cancer and improved survival rates. The extension, part of the Government's 100-Day Plan, is supported by increased staffing, upgraded equipment, and a new digital platform to enhance accessibility and efficiency in breast screening services.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1285 views
Housing Minister Chris Bishop announced that 99 new social homes will be built in Nelson, Marlborough, and Tasman by Community Housing Providers (CHPs). The Government has committed funding for over 2,000 additional homes to be delivered by CHPs nationwide, including in these regions. The homes will primarily consist of one to two-bedroom units to address the high demand for such housing in the area, with a focus on providing suitable homes for those most in need.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1147 views
Dr Mark Hickford has been appointed to the Law Commission for a five-year term and will serve as President for six months, according to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith. Hickford's exceptional legal background and management skills make him a valuable addition to the Commission. He will initially work part-time while fulfilling a commitment with Te Puni Kōkiri, and will serve as President for six months until a new President is confirmed.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1130 views
Minister Louise Upston has praised the progress in preparing Kiwi job seekers for work, emphasizing the focus on matching them with employers through targeted case management. The Ministry for Social Development is increasing case management places and rolling out Individual Employment Plans to help clients become job-ready. MSD aims to support job seekers in securing positions now and in the future, aligning with the government's Jobseeker reduction target and economic growth projections.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1329 views
The hospitality industry in New Zealand, employing 145,000 people, is crucial for economic growth. The Ministry for Regulation is conducting a sector review to address regulatory costs hindering affordable services for Kiwis, focusing on restaurants, bars, cafes, and hotels. The review aims to streamline regulations, cut red tape, reduce costs, and improve compliance to support the industry's recovery and growth.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1350 views
KiwiRail directors Rob Jager and Bruce Wattie will finish their service on 31 October 2025, with two new directors appointed starting 1 November 2025, as announced by Minister for Rail Winston Peters. Jager and Wattie are recognized for their contributions, with Jager's leadership background and Wattie's accomplishments highlighted. New directors Murray Harrington and Alastair Bell bring financial acumen and governance expertise to help KiwiRail improve operations and meet expectations for increased efficiency and profitability.
15 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1290 views
The Education Review Office (ERO) research confirms that the Government's decision to mandate structured literacy and mathematics has led to improved student engagement and ability. Teachers, parents, and students have reported better progress in English and maths, with new approaches like structured literacy improving attention and behavior in the classroom. The government's investment in teacher training and resources has resulted in 80% of teachers changing their teaching methods, with a focus on explicit teaching techniques benefiting all schools, particularly those in lower socio-economic communities.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1009 views
Legislation passing third reading in Parliament today will eliminate advertising restrictions for broadcasters on Sundays and public holidays, according to Media Minister Paul Goldsmith. The aim is to ensure local media companies are not disadvantaged compared to digital streaming platforms. The change is expected to generate around $6 million annually and is seen as necessary due to the increasing popularity of streaming services like YouTube in New Zealand.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1363 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.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1134 views
Dr Shane Reti announced the establishment of Research Funding New Zealand, a single board to simplify science funding decisions in New Zealand based on recommendations from the Science System Advisory Group. The new system aims to reduce complexity and bureaucracy, allowing researchers to focus more on impactful research, innovation, and economic growth. Public investment in science will be redirected towards key areas like the economy, environment, health, and technology, with a phased transition over four years to ensure continuity and minimize disruption.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1322 views
Finance Minister Nicola Willis has praised the Reserve Bank's plan to relax lending restrictions, aiming to assist first home buyers in achieving home ownership. The Reserve Bank is considering increasing the limit on new lending to owner-occupiers with less than a 20% deposit to 25%, potentially aiding more first-time buyers. Additionally, the proposal includes raising the amount banks can lend to residential property investors with deposits under 30% from 5% to 10%, following the introduction of debt-to-income restrictions to enhance banking system resilience.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1268 views
Attorney-General Judith Collins announced Solicitor-General Una Jagose KC will resign in February after 10 years, praising her service. Jagose, who took office in 2016 after a distinguished 35-year public service career, received recognition for her efforts. The Solicitor-General serves as the Junior Law Officer of the Crown and Chief Executive of the Crown Law Office, with the Public Service Commission overseeing the selection of a successor.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1291 views
Cabinet papers reveal upcoming Medical Products Bill changes including the removal of pharmacy ownership restrictions to enhance access to healthcare. The bill will introduce a supervisory pharmacist role and allow advertising of unapproved medicines under certain conditions. Modernizing advertising regulations will provide better access to medical product information while ensuring consumer safety.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1371 views
Cyber Smart Week, organized by the National Cyber Security Centre, aims to raise awareness about cyber security threats in New Zealand, highlighting the gap between perception and action. The initiative includes tools like How Exposed Am I? to help individuals assess and improve their online security practices. Additionally, the government's efforts, including the All of Government Digital Portfolio, focus on enhancing cybersecurity standards and efficiency across public sector agencies to build a more secure digital environment for all New Zealanders.
14 Oct 2025
1 year ago
2070 views
Associate Education Minister David Seymour has announced the opening of Aotearoa Infinite Academy, Te Aratika High School, and Altum Academic as charter schools in Term 1 2026, emphasizing the importance of providing tailored education opportunities. Aotearoa Infinite Academy offers online education to overcome barriers to attendance, while Te Aratika High School in Hawkes Bay focuses on vocational training for disengaged Māori and Pacific students. Altum Academy in Wellington aims to address the equity gap by offering a Classical Education approach based on the Trivium method, preparing students for critical thinking and communication skills.