Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

Today’s introduction of the Infrastructure Funding and Financing Amendment Bill to Parliament marks an important milestone in making it easier for developments to get off the ground through innovative approaches to funding infrastructure, Housing Minister Chris Bishop and Infrastructure Under-Secretary Simon Court say.

“The Infrastructure Funding and Financing Act sought to codify the Milldale success story, where housing developers paved a way to bypass council infrastructure bottlenecks impeding their development,” Mr Bishop says.

“By enabling the financing of growth infrastructure up front and then levying the properties that benefit from the development capacity it delivers, the Act lets development proceed free from councils’ infrastructure funding and financing constraints.

“However, only two levies have been authorised to date – well short of the intent and ambition of this legislation. We’re making it more viable and flexible so councils and developers can get on with building the infrastructure our growing communities need.

“These amendments will remove unnecessary barriers to uptake and broaden project eligibility; they are a key part of Pillar 2 of the Government’s Going for Housing Growth Programme which is focused on delivering a range of infrastructure funding and financing tools to help growth pay for growth.”

“Developers using this tool cannot be held hostage by councils or infrastructure agencies that try to stall projects by refusing to sign things off. If the legal requirements are met, endorsement must follow. That means faster decisions, fewer vetoes, and more developer-led infrastructure projects being built,” Mr Court says.

“This Bill will also extend eligibility from council and developer-led projects to projects delivered by the New Zealand Transport Agency, KiwiRail, and new water service organisations. This will help accelerate the delivery of key growth projects in the infrastructure pipeline while ensuring beneficiaries pay.

“It will also deliver a range of other changes to increase its usability, including removing bureaucratic hurdles, enabling levy deferrals to address affordability concerns, and several other detailed and technical changes.”

“These changes, alongside the development levy proposals released for consultation today, play a key part in delivering Going for Housing Growth by contributing to a stack of infrastructure funding and financing tools that facilitate both planned and unplanned infrastructure needed for housing,” Mr Bishop says.

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  26 November 2025

November marks the beginning of breeding season for pakake/New Zealand sea lions, which means they’ll start becoming more visible along southern coastlines and will turn up in unexpected places.

DOC Coastal Otago Biodiversity Ranger Moss Thompson says in November, pregnant female pakake start searching for potential birthing and pupping sites away from the advances of males.

“This means we often start seeing more females using beaches closer to Dunedin city – and sometimes in more urban locations like along roads, golf courses and people’s backyards,” Moss says.

“As we get into December and then through the rest of summer, pups start appearing, and as they get older, they’ll start exploring the area too, often showing up inland.

“Pregnant females and pups are extremely vulnerable and it’s vital they’re given the space and grace to do their thing safely.

“This summer we’re asking people to ‘pause for pakake’. This means keeping an eye out when you’re in coastal areas, keeping dogs under control, following instructions on all signage and paying special attention when driving or visiting hotspot areas such as Smaills and Tomahawk beaches, Saint Kilda, Brighton, and Hooper’s and Papanui Inlet roads on the Otago Peninsula.”

DOC is working closely with the Dunedin City Council to ensure road management is in place at these hotspots to keep the pakake and road users safe.

This summer, rangers are hoping for another record number of births to add to the growing mainland population. To reach breeding colony status, more than 35 pups need to be born.

“New Zealand sea lions are among the rarest in the word. Most of the 10,000 pakake are found in the New Zealand subantarctic, but their population is not doing well and is projected to decline 50 – 70% over the next three generations.

“This makes the continued growth and establishment of a new breeding colony on the mainland all the more important.”

Dunedin and coastal Otago have an international reputation as a wildlife hotspot, and it’s an honour most people hold dear – however not everyone plays by the rules.

DOC Southern South Island Operations Director Aaron Fleming says the recent shooting of three male pakake near Waitaki river mouth, which is still under active investigation, shows some people still do not recognise the significance or vulnerability of protected wildlife, including marine mammals, in the region.

“When it comes to saving a species, there are things that can’t be solved overnight; climate change, food availability, disease – none of these things have quick fixes.

“Direct conflict between people and wildlife is something we, as a community, can stop. Spread the word. Together, let’s share the coastlines, respect nature and give these charismatic animals a chance to bounce back. That’s what naturing is all about.”

“If you see or hear of any wildlife being harassed, disturbed or injured please report it to 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468) right away.

Contact

Source: New Zealand Police

A man is due in court today following a large fire at a Waiuku business on Monday night.

Police treated the fire as suspicious with a scene examination carried out yesterday.

Acting Detective Inspector Chris Robson, of Counties Manukau CIB, says a search warrant was executed in the Waiuku area last night.

“A 30-year-old local man was arrested at the property and has been charged with arson.”

The man is due to appear in the Pukekohe District Court today.

“The fire has caused extensive damage,” acting Detective Inspector Robson says.

“We would like to acknowledge the assistance from the public, local businesses and Fire and Emergency NZ in this matter, as well as the work of the Counties Manukau Crime Squad in being able to resolve this matter quickly.”

Anyone that has further information to assist Police can update us online now or call 105 using the reference number 251125/6093.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS. 

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Government

The Christchurch City Council has been selected to serve as a one-stop consenting authority for large-scale supermarket developments.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis says the new service is the latest step in the Government’s plans to make New Zealand a more attractive destination for new supermarkets.

“More supermarkets equals more competition equals lower prices. 

“Until now, new supermarket developers have faced having to deal with up to 66 different councils, 66 different processes and 66 different responses. That’s a disincentive to setting up shop here. 

“The establishment of a one-stop shop means a developer looking to build in multiple locations now only has to deal with one authority.

“The purpose of the new service is to encourage competition in a sector which is dominated by the Foodstuffs and Woolworths chains. Between them, they effectively control 82 per cent of the market.

“Therefore, the new service is primarily for grocery businesses that are not a part of those chains. However, it also covers any supermarket developments that have been referred via the fast-track process for supermarkets that increase competition on a regional or national scale. 

“Christchurch is a leader in commercial builds and the council has well-established working relationships with other councils that will be used to ensure smooth processes on the ground. 

“The appointment of a single building authority complements the changes being made to better enable replication of approved designs through MultiProof – a process that halves consent timeframes.

“Kiwi shoppers deserve choice at the checkout. A single consenting authority makes it easier and faster for new supermarkets to enter the market and build at scale,” Nicola Willis says.

Notes to editors: 

The service covers new standalone buildings (minimum 500m²) for grocery businesses that are not Regulated Grocery Retailers (RGRs) (i.e. not Foodstuffs North Island, Foodstuffs South Island, and Woolworths NZ). It also covers any supermarket developments (new competitors or RGRs) that have been referred via the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024.

Mixed-use or mall developments, fitouts or conversions of existing buildings, and substantial renovations (unless previously consented under this service) are out of scope.

There are 68 building consent authorities (BCAs) responsible for delivering building control functions in New Zealand. This includes 66 territorial or regional authorities (councils), one private BCA, and Consentium, an independent division of Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities. 

More information on the Government’s grocery work programme is available at www.mbie.govt/groceries

Source: New Zealand Government

The completion of a $10 million wind turbine project in the Chatham Islands will reduce both local power prices and carbon emissions, Associate Minister for Regional Development Mark Patterson says. Minister Patterson will officially open the project on the Chatham Islands this Thursday.

“This initiative means households and businesses on the Chathams will benefit from significantly lower electricity costs, with expected savings of around 40 cents per kilowatt hour. The region will also enjoy a more stable and reliable electricity supply,” Mr Patterson says. 

“The new wind turbines will reduce diesel use by up to 68 per cent, saving approximately $1.2 million annually, and will cut carbon emissions per person by more than half – from 3.34 tonnes to 1.37 tonnes per year,” Mr Patterson says.

Before the wind turbines came into operation electricity generation relied almost entirely on diesel shipped in by an ageing vessel prone to mechanical issues. This led to electricity costs around four times higher than the New Zealand average and left the small community vulnerable to supply disruptions.

The project was funded by a $10 million grant from the government’s Climate Emergency Response Fund and a $500,000 grant from the Provincial Growth Fund. It includes three refurbished wind turbines, a storage battery, and supporting electricity distribution infrastructure.

Built in just 24 months, the project overcame tough challenges—from moving massive cranes to laying foundations without on-site concrete and meeting tight shipping deadlines.

“The Chatham Islands Renewable Energy Project is a landmark achievement that proves what’s possible when local initiative, technical innovation, and government support come together. I look forward to seeing more opportunities for the government and the Chathams to work together,” Mr Patterson says.

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has today announced it is investing in the New Zealand Certificate in Business Events (Level 4) “Te Haeata”, a new industry-led qualification designed to build a skilled workforce for New Zealand’s business events sector, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says. 

Te Haeata has been developed by industry, for industry, and shaped by professionals with experience in delivering world-class events.

“This investment will help ensure our business events sector remains globally competitive, skilled and ready to meet future demand,” Louise Upston says. 

“Business events play a critical role in our visitor economy, attracting people who tend to spend more and travel during the off-peak season. 

“Te Haeata provides practical, industry-specific training to lift skills and standards in New Zealand’s business events sector. By investing in people and capability now, we’re supporting the development of a higher-wage sector and creating clear career pathways for tourism and hospitality workers.

“This qualification directly addresses workforce shortages in the tourism and business events sector, supporting our long-term goal of building a skilled domestic workforce.”

Te Haeata is expected to launch in Q1 2026. The qualification will be delivered online, making it accessible nationwide. 

It will be part of employment-based training, enabling recognition of practical experience and career progression. The first paper will also be available to be delivered in high schools from 2027 as a ‘taster’ pathway into the sector.

“Attracting and retaining talent is critical, and Te Haeata represents a major step forward in building the capability of our workforce to support sustainable growth for New Zealand’s business events, hospitality and tourism sectors,” Louise Upston says.

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has unveiled a long-term plan to modernise Defence Force infrastructure that will strengthen military resilience and create building and construction jobs across New Zealand. 

“The national security of New Zealand depends on a strong Defence estate that empowers the Force to perform at its best,” Associate Minister Chris Penk says.

“Modern facilities support personnel to train, deploy and operate equipment at their peak, while safe and healthy workplaces and homes are essential for their wellbeing. 

“Sadly, our infrastructure is not equipped to realise this vision. Much of it is aged, fragile and prone to failure, with more than 70 percent of New Zealand Defence Force infrastructure now having less than 20 years of useful life remaining. 
 
“Failure to act will result in facility closures, degraded training that undermines operational capability, and increased risks to personnel. Regenerating the estate is essential to maintain a high level of operational readiness. 

“The Defence Estate Portfolio Plan (DEPP) sets out a long-term vision to deliver major regeneration by 2040, ensuring our camps, bases and training areas are fit for purpose and equipped to meet the needs of a modern Defence Force. 

“The DEPP sets out the investment priorities for the $2.5 billion identified in the Defence Capability Plan 2025 to modernise and strengthen Defence infrastructure over the next four years, subject to annual budget processes. 

“It replaces earlier regeneration plans and takes a more holistic portfolio approach by bringing together service-critical assets, training infrastructure, and housing across the Defence estate.” 

As part of the DEPP, Cabinet has given the green light to the Future Naval Base Programme. 
 
“Devonport Naval Base is vital to the Defence Force as New Zealand’s only naval port, yet the current infrastructure cannot fully meet the Navy’s operational, training and support requirements,” Mr Penk says. 

“The Programme addresses historic underinvestment with significant new projects to provide fit-for-purpose accommodation, training facilities, wharf improvements and horizontal infrastructure.  

“Investment also extends to associated sites such as Narrow Neck, Kauri Point, and the Tamaki Leadership Centre at Whangaparāoa. 

“These upgrades will be rolled out in tranches, enhancing the Royal New Zealand Navy’s ability to operate safely and effectively. The first tranche is already underway, with $25 million in capital funding provided through Budget 2025.” 

Alongside the Future Naval Base Programme, the DEPP supports the continuation of five other programmes that back Defence capability and renew infrastructure. 
 
These include:  

Defence Estate Regeneration Programme (DERP) – Renewing ageing, service-critical infrastructure using depreciation reserves across camps and bases, training areas and regional facilities.
Horizontal Infrastructure Workstream – Upgrading essential services like water, power, ICT, and roads across Defence sites.
Homes for Families Programme – Delivering modern housing for Defence families at multiple locations.
Ōhakea Infrastructure Programme – Supporting Air Force capability through targeted infrastructure upgrades at RNZAF Base Ōhakea.
Accommodation Messing and Dining Modernisation Programme – Upgrading barracks, messing and dining facilities to improve living standards and support retention. 

“Altogether, this is a generational investment in Defence infrastructure that strengthens strategic objectives, bolsters preparedness, and ensures our people have the facilities to excel at work and recharge while off duty,” Mr Penk says. 

“The DEPP also delivers a boost for New Zealand’s building and construction industry. Renovations and new projects across bases and camps nationwide will create jobs and economic opportunities in local communities for years to come.  

“This Government is investing in the foundations of our Defence Force. We are building the infrastructure that enables capability, supports our hard-working servicemen and women, and safeguards our country.” 

Source: Tertiary Education Commission

Looking to apply for an exception?
AMFM rates

The 2026 AMFM is 6.00 percent. 
TEOs may increase their fees (GST exclusive) for eligible courses by up to 6.00 percent above what they charged in 2025.
The AMFM for 2025 was also set at 6.00 percent.

The AMFM rate for each year is published in the relevant year’s funding mechanisms.
Funding mechanisms and delegations
When AMFM applies
AMFM policy applies to courses funded through the following funds: 

Delivery at Levels 3 to 7 (non-degree) on the New Zealand Qualifications and Credentials Framework (NZQCF) (DQ3-7) 
Delivery at Levels 7 (degree) to 10 on the NZQCF (DQ7-10).

It applies to fees that:

all domestic students are required to pay for provider-based learning, and
courses established by a TEO that are a substitute for an existing course on the same or similar subject matter, at the same or a similar level on the NZQCF, and
micro-credentials approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) to be part of a programme leading to a qualification. 

For more information about micro-credential fees, see Micro-credentials. 
When AMFM doesn’t apply
Fees charged for industry training (ie, programmes or micro credentials) funded under DQ3-7 in the work-based modes of delivery are exempt. 
Flexibility for fee reductions
From 2024, if you reduce fees for a course across one or more calendar years, you can return to the maximum fee you charged before the reduction. You can then apply AMFM increases for the years in which the fee was reduced.
Note: This only applies from 2024. It does not apply to fee reductions made before 2024. 
Corresponding polytechnics and corresponding courses (2026–27)
Special AMFM rules apply to polytechnics established on or after 1 January 2026 and business divisions of of New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) delivering corresponding courses.
From 1 January 2026, if a polytechnic established on or after this date (or a business division of NZIST) delivers a corresponding course it may:

charge the fee that applied to that course before 1 April 2020, plus AMFM increases for each subsequent year, or
continue with the rate set by NZIST and increase that rate by the 2026 AMFM only.

Note: This provision is optional and time-bound (2026–27).
Definitions
Corresponding course means a course that:

was subject to NZIST’s programme unification process; and
is offered by a polytechnic established on or after 1 January 2026 or a business division of NZIST; and
is the same as or very similar to (as determined by the Tertiary Education Commission [TEC]) a course delivered by its corresponding polytechnic before 1 April 2020.

Corresponding polytechnic means a polytechnic that became a subsidiary of NZIST on 1 April 2020 that corresponds directly, either by name, location, or other unique identifying feature, to a polytechnic established on or after 1 January 2026.
AMFM classification (polytechnics and business divisions of NZIST)
What we’re defining
For the AMFM rule, we will treat any NZIST fee change between 1 April 2020 and 31 December 2025 as part of NZIST’s programme-unification activity. This includes programme roll-outs, network fee alignments, AMFM-only increases, and site-specific repricing.
What this allows
If you are a polytechnic established on or after 1 January 2026, or a business division of NZIST, you may charge the pre-1 April 2020 fee plus the cumulative AMFM for each subsequent year, provided:

the course’s fee was changed by NZIST at any point between 1 April 2020–31 December 2025
you are an eligible provider (2026 polytechnic or NZIST business division)
the course is the same as, or very similar to, the version offered by the corresponding polytechnic before 1 April 2020.

AMFM exceptions
Exception criteria
Under exceptional circumstances, you may be granted an exception that allows you to increase your 2026 fee by up to an additional 6.00 percent on top of the 6.00 percent permitted under the 2026 AMFM rule.
Applications must show that: 

it is financially unsustainable to deliver the course, in terms of the cost of delivering the course and taking into account the total income that the course would generate (including government funding and tuition fees), and that there are no satisfactory alternatives to limit cost
existing fees for the course are no more than the 75th percentile of the range of fees charged for similar courses, and
in addition, any two of the following three criteria must be met:

where the course is part of a programme at Levels 3–10 on the NZQCF that has been delivered previously, the programme has a cohort-based completion rate that meets or exceeds the median performance benchmark for the NZQCF level in the previous year
you can demonstrate that the course is in some way unique or special; for example, that there are no available local alternatives, and
not allowing an exception will prevent you from making a significant contribution to the achievement of one or more of the government’s priorities, as set out in the Tertiary Education Strategy.

Note: There is a limit to the number of courses for which a TEO can request an exception each year. For details on this, see AMFM exceptions: Application guidelines and assessment information (PDF 493 KB).
How to apply for an exception to the AMFM
The application process for 2026 is now open.
Applications are due by 5.00pm, 28 November 2025.
Applications are only for courses that start between 1 January 2026 and 31 December 2026.
Submit applications and all supporting information to our Customer Contact Team at customerservice@tec.govt.nz. Use the subject line [EDUMIS] – Exception to the AMFM.
Use the following forms and templates to make your AMFM exception application:

Source: Tertiary Education Commission

They are required to comply with statutory processes relating to the disposal of assets (including demolitions), or interests in assets (including granting of easements), and the leasing of land or buildings. Assets include land and buildings, plant and equipment and financial assets.
Capital Asset Management
The Government sets out its expectations for Capital Asset Management (CAM) in Cabinet Office Circulars.  We monitor the performance of TEIs against those expectations.  
Further information: Capital Asset Management for TEIs
Disposal of assets
Section 282(4) of the Education and Training Act 2020 (the Act) requires that TEIs obtain a written consent from the Secretary for Education to sell or otherwise dispose of assets or interests in assets, and to grant leases of land and buildings they own.
Under Section 282(5) of the Act the Minister may determine a value threshold below which a TEI may dispose of, mortgage, or otherwise charge an asset without the consent of the Secretary for Education. The Minister has issued separate determinations for the disposal of plant and equipment and financial assets, and disposal of land and building assets.
Section 282(5) of the Act also states that the granting of a lease for a total term of 15 years or less doesn’t need the consent of the Secretary for Education. The total term includes all rights-of-renewal.
The determination made by the Minister for disposal of land and buildings do not apply to Crown-owned land and buildings. TEIs cannot sell Crown-owned land and buildings under Section 282(5) of the Act. For information on options available to TEIs for the Crown-owned land and building assets they manage see Crown asset transfer and disposal. 
Capital project and expenditure thresholds for New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology
Section 327 of the Education and Training Act 2020 imposes a specific requirement on the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (NZIST) to obtain the written consent of the Secretary for Education (the Secretary) for capital projects of NZIST.
Under section 327(1), a capital project may be undertaken by NZIST only if:
a. the cost of, or level of risk of, the project to NZIST is below thresholds set by the Secretary under 327(2); or
b. the project is within a capital plan of NZIST approved in writing by the Secretary; or
c. NZIST has obtained the written consent of the Secretary for the project.
Under section 327(2), the Secretary must consult with NZIST before setting thresholds for the purposes of subsection (1)(a).
The Secretary has consulted with the NZIST council on interim thresholds for the period through to 31 December 2026.
The interim thresholds set by the Secretary for the purposes of section 327(1)(a) will be published on behalf of the Ministry of Education here.
Interim Thresholds for Approval of Capital Expenditure by the Secretary of Education (PDF 117 KB) 
These interim thresholds will remain in place until further notice.
Consents for disposals of assets
For information on how to apply for consent to sell, or grant a long-term lease for, land or buildings owned by a TEI, see Disposal or long-term lease of land and buildings.
For information on how to apply for consent to demolish a TEI or Crown-owned building see Disposal or long-term lease of land and buildings.
For information on consents, including thresholds determined by the Minister, for the sale of plant and equipment and other assets (such as financial assets, computers and art or library collections) see Sale of plant and equipment and financial assets.

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  26 November 2025

The track, a tourist hotspot near Matamata, has been closed since 13 July due to high levels of rockfall activity and ongoing instability.

DOC Senior Ranger Heritage and Visitors Matiu Te Kani-McQueen says the closure provides opportunity.

“While we work on making the track safe, we will also be replacing a bridge, lookout platforms, steps, and barriers.”

“Ultimately, we’ll be reopening a safer and improved experience for all the people who enjoy this special place.”

Despite the closure, a small number of visitors have been ignoring signs and risking their own safety.

Matiu says the instability in the gorge area poses a risk of severe or life-threatening injury.

“One particularly large boulder, 3 meters wide, is set to break loose at any time. When it goes, it’s likely to take out the stairs and anyone on them. So, please comply with the closure for your own safety.”

“The lower track section remains open and visitors can safely enjoy a tranquil short walk including the iconic International Seat of Peace.”

“Alternatively, take the opportunity to try one of the many other beautiful walks in the nearby Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park,” suggests Matiu.

“Those desperate for a waterfall view might enjoy walks in Waiorongomai Valley, or the Henderson Tramline Loop Track.”

The Kaimai Mamaku Conservation Park is a popular naturing destination for its cultural heritage, environmental values and rich mining history.

The closure of Wairere Falls Track will remain in place into 2026 while DOC works with geotechnical experts and mana whenua – Ngāti Haua, Ngāti Hinerangi and Raukawa – to address risk and upgrade the track.

Always check the DOC website for alerts on track conditions or closures.

Contact