10 Sep 2026
1 month ago
424 views
New Zealand’s Government reports record renewable electricity generation and a 66% drop in wholesale prices for the June quarter, attributing success to policies like LNG import facility procurement and fast-tracking renewable projects. Despite strong renewable output, the electricity system remains vulnerable to dry years due to reliance on hydro storage and backup thermal generation, highlighting risks from past bans on oil and gas exploration. The Government emphasizes ongoing investment in renewables supported by LNG imports to ensure energy security and affordability in challenging conditions.
07 Sep 2026
1 month ago
508 views
New Zealand is advancing its energy security by investing up to $23.5 million from the Gas Security Fund in two Todd Energy projects aimed at unlocking nearly 20 petajoules of additional gas reserves over five to nine years. These projects, expected to deliver gas by 2027, will provide around 6% of the country's projected gas production, supporting energy reliability during peak demand and complementing the transition to renewable energy. The fund, designed to accelerate gas supply and ensure electricity generation reliability, has attracted strong interest and involves significant co-investment from Todd Energy to share risks and promote economic growth.
20 Aug 2026
2 months ago
512 views
The New Zealand government announced reforms to drone regulations aimed at boosting agricultural productivity by reducing red tape and simplifying certification for routine drone spraying operations. These changes will allow farmers to use drones for pesticide and fertiliser application with only prior notification to the Civil Aviation Authority, cutting costs and delays while maintaining safety and environmental protections. The reforms, effective mid-2027, aim to enhance competitiveness with international farmers by enabling more efficient, cost-effective drone use in agriculture.
18 Aug 2026
2 months ago
626 views
Steve O'Connor has been appointed permanent Chair of the New Zealand Institute of Advanced Technology (NZIAT), having led the organization through its foundational phase since January 2026. NZIAT focuses on advancing technologies such as advanced materials, magnetic technologies, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology to strengthen New Zealand’s technology sector and economic opportunities. Additionally, Marko Bogoievski has joined the NZIAT Board, bringing expertise in technology investment, commercialisation, and governance to support the institute’s growth.
12 Aug 2026
2 months ago
612 views
The Hydrogen Hui highlights New Zealand’s potential to develop hydrogen as a key part of its energy mix, supporting economic growth, energy security, and emissions reduction through innovation across the hydrogen value chain. The government is committed to establishing clear regulatory frameworks and investing $45 million in projects like Aspiring Materials’ green hydrogen and critical minerals facility to foster regional development and technological advancement. Success relies on collaboration among industry, investors, and researchers to build a sustainable hydrogen sector, guided by the newly launched New Zealand Hydrogen Industry Road Map.
12 Aug 2026
2 months ago
599 views
The Hydrogen Hui highlights New Zealand's commitment to developing hydrogen as a key part of its energy future, emphasizing its potential for energy security, regional economic growth, and emissions reduction across various sectors. The government is working on establishing clear regulatory frameworks and investing $45 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support innovative hydrogen projects like Aspiring Materials' green hydrogen and critical minerals facility. Success will rely on collaboration among industry, researchers, and investors, guided by the newly launched New Zealand Hydrogen Industry Road Map to build a comprehensive hydrogen value chain.
12 Aug 2026
2 months ago
664 views
The Regional Infrastructure Fund will invest $15 million in Aspiring Materials Limited to develop a $31 million commercial-scale plant in Southland that produces green hydrogen and extracts critical minerals from quarry waste using patented technology. This government-backed initiative aims to boost economic development, support energy innovation, and position New Zealand’s regions to capitalize on emerging industrial opportunities, particularly in sectors where hydrogen can reduce emissions. The funding, part of an $80 million allocation for critical minerals projects, aligns with the Hydrogen Action Plan to diversify energy solutions and enhance economic resilience.
06 Aug 2026
2 months ago
591 views
An independent Deloitte review found New Zealand's minerals royalty regime transparent and comparable to similar countries, with most royalty revenue derived from legacy permits predating the 2013 framework. The report highlights the trade-offs between Crown returns, investment certainty, and sector stability, emphasizing the importance of fair returns amid emerging critical minerals opportunities. Policy work will continue with further advice in 2027, while decisions on changes will be made in the next government term.
30 Jul 2026
2 months ago
736 views
Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced new hazardous substances regulations effective today that provide tailored safety requirements for laboratories, reducing unnecessary compliance costs while maintaining strong safety standards. The 2017 regulations had imposed industrial-level requirements on laboratories, leading to impractical and costly renovations estimated between $1.5 billion and $3 billion, with some rules potentially compromising safety. The updated regulations introduce a dedicated compliance pathway with risk management plans and an Approved Code of Practice developed with industry, supporting science and innovation while ensuring health and safety protections.
29 Jul 2026
2 months ago
659 views
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) ceased the seven-year Biometric Capability Upgrade project in December 2025, initially reporting $33 million in costs written off. Subsequent reviews revealed discrepancies in MBIE’s financial reporting, leading to the identification of an additional $6 million in project costs and prompting the commissioning of an independent financial audit. The matter has been referred to the Michael Heron inquiry and the Public Service Commissioner to investigate MBIE’s financial controls and potentially expand the inquiry’s scope.
27 Jul 2026
3 months ago
627 views
Minister Penny Simmonds is visiting Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou with senior New Zealand education leaders to strengthen bilateral ties in tertiary education, science, innovation, and technology between New Zealand and China. The trip includes meetings with Chinese education officials and visits to research and technology sites to promote collaboration, student exchanges, and institutional partnerships, supporting New Zealand’s international education growth agenda. Highlights include a visit to the New Zealand-China Joint Laboratory for Biomedicine and Health and the XPeng Technology Park, showcasing advancements in biomedical research and innovation in electric vehicles and AI.
25 Jul 2026
3 months ago
735 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.
23 Jul 2026
3 months ago
691 views
Ownership of 11 temporary homes at Ōmāhu Marae in Hawke’s Bay has been transferred from the Government to local Māori authorities to support Māori-led housing and community resilience following Cyclone Gabrielle. This transfer honors Treaty obligations by enabling local stewardship, preserving cultural continuity, and ensuring the homes remain affordable and serve social good. The initiative reflects partnership and empowerment of Māori communities, with the village named Utaina Ōmāhu symbolizing unity and strength.
21 Jul 2026
3 months ago
698 views
The Research and Development Tax Incentive (RDTI) in New Zealand has supported over $10 billion in business R&D investment, demonstrating growing confidence and rapid uptake, especially among small businesses. An independent evaluation in 2025 showed the scheme generates significant economic benefits, with each dollar of support leading to an additional $1.40 invested in R&D, contributing to productivity, innovation, and high-value job creation. To further enhance its impact, the government plans to introduce in-year payments for tax credits in Budget 2026, aiming to improve cash flow and encourage more businesses to invest in R&D.
13 Jul 2026
3 months ago
842 views
Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson is visiting India to promote New Zealand's premium strong wool and strengthen trade relationships at Bharat Tex 2026, India's largest global textile expo. India is New Zealand's second largest wool market, with growing demand driven by sustainability trends and emerging innovative applications in various industries. The New Zealand government is investing over $65 million in 25 projects to support wool sector innovation, collaboration, and supply chain improvements.