Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Education Minister David Seymour says this Government has prioritised student attendance and as a result we’ve seen every term since Term 1 2024 record higher attendance than the same term of the previous year.

In Term 1 of 2025 65.9 per cent of students attended school regularly, an increase of 4.5 percentage points from 61.4 per cent in Term 1 of 2024 and 6.9 percentage points from 59.0 per cent in Term 1 of 2023. 

“Every region has recorded an increase in attendance. I would like to give a special shoutout to the Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast region for recording the biggest improvement, of 6.6 per centage points,” says Mr Seymour

“Chronic absence has declined from 7.3% of absences last year to 6.4% this year. Those are often children with complex needs and it’s great to see an impact.

“While there’s more work to be done, these numbers are another step in the right direction to achieving the Government’s goal of ensuring 80 per cent of students are present more than 90 per cent of the term by 2030. 

“I expect this momentum to continue as phases of our attendance action plan come into force. For example, it will be mandatory for schools to have their own attendance management plan, aligned with the Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) in place by Term 1 of 2026.

“Prosecution is also a reality for parents who refuse to send their children to school and ignore supports to ensure their children are in class and learning. The Ministry of Education is proactively contacting attendance service providers and schools to ensure parents in this category are referred to the Ministry.

Prosecution will only occur the most serious of cases, where all other options have been exhausted and parents / guardians are wilfully not engaging. Students and families’ personal circumstances will be taken into account when the prosecution decision is taken.

“At the start of next year frontline attendance services will be more accountable, better at effectively managing cases, and data driven in their responses. To achieve this, they will soon have access to a new case management system and better data monitoring, and their contracts will be more closely monitored,” Mr Seymour says.

Budget 2025 included a $140 million package to improve attendance over the next four years. 

“Attending school is the first step towards achieving positive educational outcomes. Positive educational outcomes lead to better health, higher incomes, better job stability and greater participation within communities. These are opportunities that every student deserves,” Mr Seymour says.

Attendance data can be found here Attendance | Education Counts

Source: New Zealand Government

A new, state-of-the-art CT scanner is now operational at Southland Hospital, delivering a significant step forward for diagnostic services in the region, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“This new CT scanner is a game-changer for Invercargill and surrounding areas. It will provide faster, more accurate diagnosis for a wide range of conditions, including cancer and heart disease – meaning patients can start treatment sooner and with greater confidence.

“The enhanced imaging technology offers clearer, more detailed information to support doctors in making timely, well-informed decisions. That means better care for patients, fewer delays, and improved health outcomes.”

The new scanner replaces equipment installed in 2012 and features advanced detector-based spectral technology, providing enhanced lesion detection and more detailed tumour assessments – particularly valuable in oncology care.

“This technology allows clinicians to detect abnormalities earlier and with greater precision, which is critical in cancer care. The sooner a diagnosis can be made, the sooner treatment can begin.

“Southland Hospital currently scans over 500 patients each month. This upgrade will increase the capacity for patients to receive advanced diagnostic services, reducing the anxiety that comes with waiting for answers and helping to ensure timely access to the right care.”

In a first for the region, the scanner will also provide cardiac imaging, enabling local assessment for signs of heart disease – a service not previously available at Southland Hospital.

“The addition of cardiac CT scanning means patients can get the care they need closer to home, without having to travel to other hospitals for these tests. The hospital’s diagnostic team will be undertaking specialised training so this new service can be up and running as soon as possible.

“Access to modern diagnostic tools like this CT scanner is essential to improving outcomes for patients. By detecting disease earlier and with greater precision, we can help ensure people receive the right treatment at the right time,” Mr Brown says.

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has signed a new halal cooperation arrangement in Jakarta over the weekend to strengthen trade access to Indonesia and create new opportunities for New Zealand’s red meat and dairy exporters, Agriculture and Trade Minister, Todd McClay announced today.

“Indonesia is an important growth market for dairy and meat products – worth over $1.1 billion in exports last year. With a population of 280 million and a large middle-class Indonesia is a focus market for the Government,” Mr McClay says.

The Halal Cooperation Arrangement (HCA) supports ongoing collaboration between New Zealand and Indonesia on halal standards, certification, and product assurance – helping exporters meet requirements and streamline trade.

“There’s huge potential for our premium products, and this agreement will give exporters confidence in maximising that opportunity.”

“Importantly, the HCA was developed with close input from our dairy and red meat sectors —delivering value for our world best producers,” Mr McClay says.

“This is another step in our plan to grow the economy by boosting exports and delivering stronger returns for Kiwi farmers and processors.”

“When rural New Zealand does well, all New Zealanders do well.”

Source: NZCTU

The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi is dismayed by the Government’s decision to abstain from the new International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention on biological hazards that would strengthen worker protections.

“This Convention provides a comprehensive framework for preventing and managing biological workplace health and safety issues,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff.

“Representatives of Government, employers’ and workers’ organizations at the 113th International Labour Conference have resoundingly voted for the adoption this new Convention and accompanying Recommendation on protection against biological hazards in the working environment.

“There is strong international support for this Convention which has been ratified by more than 95% of representatives from the 187 ILO member states. The New Zealand workers’ delegation voted in favour of this convention which embeds the importance of healthy and safe work as a fundamental aspect of good work for everyone.

“Unfortunately, the New Zealand Government has joined Bangladesh, Djibouti, Panama, Algeria, Guatemala, and India as the only Governments to vote against or abstain in the vote for the Convention. New Zealand Business representatives did not vote at all.

“The failure of the Government to support this convention reflects its total disregard and disinterest in workers’ safety and health and shows how isolated New Zealand has become from global efforts to improve safeguards at work,” said Wagstaff.

James Ritchie, the Spokesperson for the biological hazards Convention stated:

“This is the first international instrument that specifically addresses biological hazards in the working environment at the global level. It follows the Covid pandemic, and the 2022 decision to include a safe and healthy working environment in the ILO’s framework of fundamental principles and rights at work. 

“The New Zealand Government rejection of this historic convention is not a theoretical exercise, implementing its provisions would save lives now and during future outbreaks of infectious diseases,” said Ritchie.

Source: New Zealand Police

An Auckland teenager is without wheels and will face charges after a patrol detected him at driving at dangerous speeds.

It could have been a different story.

A Motorway Patrol unit on the Southern Motorway saw the vehicle being driven at high speed at around 11pm on Sunday.

Sergeant Chris Mann says it’s lucky that Police is not telling the public about a fatality today.

“Another unit picked up this vehicle on the motorway as it neared the Mt Wellington off-ramp,” he says.

“It locked the vehicle at an eye-watering speed – nearly twice the speed limit.”

Police attempted to stop the vehicle near the off ramp, but the driver failed to stop.

“The Police Eagle helicopter deployed and was able to track the vehicle,” Sergeant Mann says.

“Another unit in the Mt Wellington area was able to successfully deploy spikes to slow the vehicle down.”

Eagle soon directed ground staff to a Pt England Street, where the vehicle had parked up.

Sergeant Mann says the 18-year-old male driver, and registered owner of the vehicle, will face court over his actions.

“Alongside having his vehicle impounded, the driver has also been suspended from driving for 28 days,” he says.

“There is no excuse for driving at this speed and it’s fortunate our staff weren’t knocking on someone’s door last night to advise of a fatality.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Government

Health Minister Simeon Brown and Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey are marking National Volunteer Week by recognising the extraordinary contribution of volunteers to New Zealand’s health system, including this year’s recipients of the Minister of Health Volunteer Awards.
This year’s theme – Volunteering weaves us together – highlights the power of volunteering to strengthen the fabric of our communities, helping build a stronger, more inclusive New Zealand.
“Since 2013, the Minister of Health Volunteer Awards have been an excellent way for us to celebrate the wonderful health volunteers we have across the country. Over the past few months, I’ve been visiting the 2024 recipients in their communities to personally thank them, concluding with my final visit today.
“The recipients come from all corners of New Zealand and range in age from 17 to 90. It’s been inspiring to meet these volunteers, hear their stories, and see firsthand the difference they make.”
Recipients include:

Tarihira Anaru, winner of the Health Care Provider Service Award, who has volunteered since 2014 with Canterbury’s Better Breathing Programme, helping people with respiratory conditions through education and gentle exercise.
Trevor Johns, winner of the Long Service Award, who has served with Hato Hone St John for 46 years and, at 91, continues as a Health Shuttle driver and hospital volunteer in Rotorua.
Aloese Lefono, winner of the Pacific Health Service Award, who leads a support group uniting Pacific people with Parkinson’s and their families through connection, education, and care.
The Hohepa Student Volunteers, a group of 23 students from Cashmere High School (Years 12 and 13), who generously give their time to visit people with intellectual disabilities.
The Te Whare Manaaki team of Tolaga Bay, winners of the Māori Health Service Award, who provide vital community support, including emergency relief during Cyclone Gabrielle, and continue to strengthen local services.
The Cancer Society Oncology Hosts, winners of the Community / NGO Award, who support cancer patients and families across the country.

Mr Doocey has also met with award recipient Tanja Collinge, winner of the newly introduced Mental Health and Addiction category.
“It was my pleasure to meet Tanja, who co-founded Red Door Recovery and has volunteered as its cook since 2014. After her own journey of recovery following a brain aneurysm, Tanja has used her skills to give back and help others on their path to wellness,” Mr Doocey says.
“I’ve seen firsthand how powerful connection can be for mental health. I’ve also witnessed the profound impact that volunteers, particularly those with lived experience, have on the people they support.”
Together, these volunteers remind us that a compassionate, connected health system relies not just on professionals, but on the generosity of people willing to serve others. Their work strengthens our communities and supports the wellbeing of thousands.
“I know how small acts of kindness – a cup of tea, a listening ear, a word of encouragement – can make all the difference during difficult times,” Mr Brown says.
“Thank you to all the volunteers who support the health system. Your kindness, empathy, and dedication have a profound impact on the lives of New Zealanders.”

Source: Tertiary Education Commission

Last updated 16 June 2025
Last updated 16 June 2025

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The Ministry of Education (MoE) invites sector feedback on the 2026 fee regulation settings. Consultation closes 7 July 2025.
The Ministry of Education (MoE) invites sector feedback on the 2026 fee regulation settings. Consultation closes 7 July 2025.

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council and NZ Police have signed a memorandum of understanding, cementing and enhancing the two organisations’ commitment to continue working together, now and for years to come, to keep Tāmaki Makaurau safe.

Phil Wilson, chief executive of Auckland Council, says he’s extremely pleased the council and police have formalised their working relationship through the memorandum.

“Auckland Council and NZ Police have had a healthy and effective working relationship for many years, which ultimately benefits Aucklanders.

“The memorandum of understanding cements the relationship and is a touchstone from which the council and police can continue to carry out the important mahi of keeping Aucklanders and visitors safe,” says Mr Wilson.

“The council owns and maintains a significant number of public spaces and public facilities in Auckland such as our streets, community halls, swimming pools and the regional and local parks network.

“Council teams work with police every day to keep these facilities and the community safe, and look after Auckland’s most vulnerable people. I’m especially proud of our efforts in the area of community safety – including our city centre.

Tāmaki Makaurau is a key contributor to New Zealand’s economy – in fact it contributes nearly 40% of GDP.

“Economic growth depends, in part, on law and order,” says Mr Wilson.

“In recent years Auckland has seen a  raft of community safety issues such as ram raids, aggravated robberies and retail crime come to the fore with the public. These are complex issues that impact the whole region which no one organisation can effectively deal with alone.

“The newly enhanced council-police relationship will strengthen coordination between the two organisations and together, with Aucklanders’ help, we can continue to address concerns around safety around the region.”

Representatives of Auckland Council and the police met on 13 June, to sign the memorandum, that stipulates its purpose is to “promote a collaborative working relationship between the parties based on good-will and co-operation.”

It’s goes on to read: “It intends to support the parties to work together on areas of common interest to achieve agreed outcomes.”

Acting Deputy Commissioner, Northern Region Jill Rogers says NZ Police look forward to continuing the good work they do in partnership with Auckland Council.

“We have seen a decrease in the offending we experienced a couple of years ago. There has been a concerted and coordinated approach undertaken by Police and Council to address these concerns. Much has been made public about increased visibility and focussing on disorder and theft related crime. This partnership continues under a formal accord in the form of this MOU.”

Auckland Council has a range of regulatory enforcement responsibilities across Auckland under the following legislation and bylaws: Resource Management Act, Building Act, Dog Control Act, Food Act, Health Act, Litter Act, Biosecurity Act, Local Government Act, Public Safety and Nuisance Bylaw and the Animal Management Bylaw.

The police have responsibilities through the Policing Act across New Zealand, including Auckland. Key functions of the police include maintaining public safety, enforcing the law, preventing crime, supporting and reassuring the community and managing emergencies.

The council and police have agreed to review the memorandum of understanding within the next five years.

Source: Green Party

The Green Party is calling on the Prime Minister to stand up for workers’ rights for once and rule out reducing sick leave entitlements.

“This Government for the wealthy keeps finding new ways of eviscerating workers’ rights and tilting power to employers,” says the Green Party spokesperson for Workplace Relations and Safety, Teanau Tuiono.

“Our economy is built upon the backs of our workers, so to erode their rights to sick leave is nothing short of an attack on the morale and productivity of our workforce. 

“The Government is making a habit of revealing such changes at the start of Winter when seasonal illnesses, flu and Covid are placing many families under strain.

“Women workers in particular will be disproportionately affected by this cruel policy as they tend to take more sick leave because of childcare responsibilities. For the Government to be considering reducing sick leave is another way to attack women workers following its Pay Equity bombshell.

“The fact that the Prime Minister hasn’t ruled out halving the number of sick days for part-time workers speaks to a pattern of decision-making of a Government that doesn’t listen to, nor care about, workers.

“The Coalition has unapologetically pushed its anti-worker agenda this term – gutting the Pay Equity process, scrapping fair pay agreements, reinstating 90-day trials, and changing the law so that Uber and other gig work platforms can keep their workers from getting their entitlements in already precarious job arrangements. 

“More must be done to support our workers. The Green Party campaigned on five weeks of annual leave for everyone so that people have more time to connect with their whānau, communities, and things that matter to them. 

“The Green Party will keep fighting for everyone in Aotearoa to have access to strong rights, secure work, and decent pay, to ensure workers can thrive,” says Teanau Tuiono. 

Source: New Zealand Government

New parents can expect more support to take time away from work to care for their children from 1 July, with an increase to the maximum weekly rate of paid parental leave up from $754.87 to $788.66 per week, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced today.
“It is important to me that families receive the support they need to give their child the best start in life, and having those first weeks together is critical,” says Ms van Velden. 
The minimum parental leave payment rate for self-employed parents will increase this year from $231.50 to $235 gross per week to reflect the minimum wage increase on 1 April this year. 
Eligible parents can receive payments for up to 26 weeks.
“Congratulations to all the new parents starting an exciting chapter of their lives. This will look different for different families, so whether you have just given birth, adopted, or had a child born through surrogacy, the scheme is there to support you and your family.”
“The scheme also applies to Kiwis who have experienced miscarriage or still birth, and to women who have acted as surrogates, which can be difficult both emotionally and physically. Women in those situations can access paid parental leave to take time away from work to recover.”
“I acknowledge it continues to be tough for families right now. Paid parental leave is one way the Government can help ease the pressure of cost of living for families when they are away from work caring for children,” says Ms van Velden.
The Employment New Zealand website has the most up-to-date information about parental leave, including eligibility, payments and returning to work.
Notes for editor: 
The increase to paid parental leave rates is a legislated annual increase under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987.
Under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, eligible parents are entitled to payments equal to their normal pay up to the current maximum rate. The maximum rate is adjusted annually to account for any increase in average weekly earnings.
The minimum rate for self-employed parents is equivalent to 10 hours worked per week at the adult minimum wage, which is now $23.50 per hour.