NZ Engine

Category: MIL-OSI

  • Working from home dispute in mediation today – will Govt support women on this?

    Source: PSA
    The PSA is urging the Government to pull back from restricting flexible work practices in the public service, including working from home when mediation begins today.
    The PSA filed action with the Employment Relations Authority last December to stop the Government from restricting flexible workplace practices, which disproportionately impacts women who make up 62% of public service workers.
    “The Government has heard the loud outrage of women over its shocking destruction of the pay equity framework – it needs to listen now and stop further attacking women in the workplace,” said Fleur Fitzsimons National Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “We are hoping to settle this dispute in mediation.”
    “Women need flexible work to help them manage caring responsibilities whānau and be more productive. It’s a win win.
    “What the Government is proposing is effectively ripping up the Gender Pay Principles, which was an agreement to end discrimination based on gender and normalise flexible work practices.
    “Flexible work is the backbone of employment agreements in modern workplaces and the Government must not undermine this.
    “These are binding on the Government and are included in collective agreements so the Government can’t turn around and shift the goalposts.
    “This is exactly what it is doing with the pay equity overhaul, upending a system that was working to lift the pay of women in female-dominated occupations.
    “The Government needs to learn the lesson from last week, hear the voice of women, and come to the party and resolve this if it wants to avoid litigation before the Authority.”
    Background
    In 2018 the PSA entered in into an agreement – the Gender Pay Principles, following legal action in the Employment Court to establish principles governing work performed by women in accordance with the Equal Pay Act 1972. The follow up agreement, Flexible Work by Default, gave effect to these principles and was signed by the PSA, CTU, the State Services Commission (as it then was) and the Ministry for Women in 2020.
    The Gender Pay Principles guide all government work on gender pay with the aim of ending discrimination based on gender, and closing the gender pay gap. They require senior leaders to eliminate gender inequalities, require agencies to apply specific resourcing to ensure Māori women are not discriminated against and work with unions to ensure equitable practices are sustained.

  • Housing market – NZ housing market conditions tip in favour of first home buyers – QV

    Source: Quality Valuation (QV)

    Lower home values and easing interest rates are creating a rare opportunity for first-home buyers to enter the New Zealand housing market, particularly in hard to access main centres like Auckland and Wellington.

    Our latest QV House Price Index shows home values rose 0.10% in the three months to April to a new national average value of $914,504, which is -1.33% lower than the same time last year.

    Across New Zealand’s main urban areas: the Auckland region continues to soften, with home values down 2.89% year on year, and 0.08% over the past 3-months; the Wellington region dropped 4.11% year on year, and 0.50% over the quarter to April; Dunedin was down 0.04% year on year and -0.73% over the past three months; while Christchurch bucked the trend, rising 1.35% year on year and 0.88% in the April quarter; as did Hamilton up 0.36% year on year and 0.12% over the past 3-months.
     
    QV Operations Manager James Wilson said while headline values remain soft, early signs suggest a shift in sentiment, with some main urban centres showing a positive monthly trend.

    “After five years of significant volatility, the market appears to have stabilised,” he said. “We’re not seeing big swings anymore—home values are holding steady as we head into winter.”

    “Although interest rates are trending down, demand is tempered by cautious buyer sentiment and a large supply of properties. Still, signs of a turnaround are emerging, especially in the main centres.”

    “For first home buyers, particularly in parts of Auckland where standalone homes are now selling in the $700,000s in some areas—something we didn’t see a year ago—now is the time to act,” said Mr Wilson.

    “Investors remain more active than first home buyers, taking advantage of lower competition compared to previous peaks. However, many are still taking a ‘wait and see’ approach.”

    Northland

    Northland home values have experienced modest recovery momentum rising 1.30% in the three months to April 2025. Whangarei was the top performer in the region with values up 3.19%; value growth in the Far North slowed to just 0.17%; while the Kaipara District was down -2.05% over 3 months, reversing the gains it made earlier in the year.

    The annual trend remains negative at -2.79%, but growth signs suggest renewed buyer activity, particularly in Whangarei among investors and first home buyers. The average home value across the region now sits at $731,090, up from $721,626 in January.

    Auckland

    Across the Auckland region values are down -0.08% over the past three months and 2.89% year on year. The current average value is now $1,244,996.

    Manukau (0.53%), Papakura (0.40%) and Franklin (0.81%) all posted 3-month gains, while in the local council areas previously known as Auckland City values softened (-0.28%); North Shore was down the most (-1.19%); Waitakere also dipped (-0.33%); and Rodney (-0.06%) also eased slightly over the same period.

    Local QV registered valuer, Hugh Robson said, “Overall, market conditions remain similar to three months ago, we continue to see the strongest demand from first home buyers who are often purchasing more affordable townhouse developments.”

    “Annual growth remains in decline at -2.89%, pointing to a patchy recovery across the super city. In areas where supply levels are beginning to be absorbed and owner occupier interest remains stronger, we are starting to see some early positive signals,” he said.

    Bay of Plenty

    Home values were down in Tauranga -0.23% over the past three months. The city’s average home value $1,014,726, which is -1.48% less than the same time last year.

    Meanwhile, the Bay of Plenty region saw values rise slightly by 0.28% over the past 3-months but were down -1.30% year on year. Kawerau values saw the greatest increase, jumping 7.16% over the quarter to April and 1.59% year on year. Western Bay of Plenty district also saw values rise 2.96% over the past three months; Gisborne was also up 2.78%; as was Rotorua up 0.14%; while Opotiki values dropped -2.21%.  

    Waikato

    The latest QV House Price Index shows Hamilton’s average home value is now $792,221, rising 0.12% over the past three months and 0.36% year on year.

    Local QV registered valuer Marshall Wu said, “While we are seeing demand levels beginning to return in mid-price brackets where investor and first home buyers competition meet, a significant volume of unsold inventory continues to linger on the market. So, although April’s upturn in Hamilton’s home values is a positive sign, it remains premature to declare a market recovery,” he said.

    The Waikato region demonstrated slight improvement in the April quarter with a 3-month gain of 0.60% and 0.03% year on year. The average home value across the region now stands at $817,310. Waitomo District surged 5.41% over the past 3 months, making it the standout performer.

    Taranaki

    Home values in New Plymouth have risen 1.24% over the past three months and are 1.27% higher than the same time last year. The average home value is now $729,739. Meanwhile, the average home value in South Taranaki dipped 0.64% over the quarter to April to $443,886 while Stratford values also dipped 1.35% over the past three months and the average home there is worth $478,051.

    QV property consultant, Danny Grace said “New Plymouth district is more stable with improved levels of activity and interest over the recent months, with more interest from buyers and agents feeling more confident. Stratford and South Taranaki are also stabilising, but not to the same level as New Plymouth. The quarterly gain in New Plymouth of 1.24% shows improved sentiment fueled mostly by the strength of first home buyer demand.”

    Hawke’s Bay

    Napier City home values rose 0.97% over the past 3 months and were up 0.15% in the year to April. The average value in the city is now $760,444. Hastings values were also up 0.29% over the past three months but were down 2.24% year on year.

    The average value in Hastings is now $773,595. Wairoa saw values rise 2.21% in the three months to April and 9.83% year on year to a new average value of $414,919. While it was a different story in the Central Hawke’s Bay District, which saw the greatest decrease down -4.25% over 3 months and -7.02% year on year with an average value of $540,303.

    Palmerston North

    Home values in Palmerston North dipped 0.68% over the past three months to a new average value of $634,094 which is 1.61% lower than this time last year.

    QV registered valuer, Olivia Betts said, “We are currently seeing increased sales activity however prices remain stable. Homes with older, outdated features are struggling to attract buyers and are often listed on the market for longer periods. In contrast, there’s been a growing demand for homes recently renovated, reflecting a preference for modern amenities, according to industry experts.”

    Wellington

    Residential property values have continued their downward trend most parts of Wellington this quarter. The latest QV House Price Index shows the region’s average home value decreased by 0.50% to $837,745 throughout the quarter to April and is 4.11% lower than the same time last year.

    Upper Hutt bucked the trend this quarter with average growth of 0.69%. While, Wellington City (-0.69%), Kapiti Coast (-0.01%), Hutt City (-0.47%) and Porirua (-0.21%) all recorded small average home value losses.
     
    QV senior consultant, David Cornford said, “Stock levels remain at elevated levels and accordingly we have seen a slight overall softening in values in recent months in the region.”

    “There is adequate market activity, however the volume of stock on the market is making conditions challenging for vendors in some cases,” he said.

    “Buyers have plenty of options currently and are not afraid to walk away from a property. Economic and employment uncertainty continues and we are seeing this reflected in a relatively soft market where buyers are taking a cautious approach.”

    Tasman-Nelson-Marlborough

    These three regions fared relatively well in April, with Nelson City and Tasman District recording 3-month growth of 1.21% and 2.16%, respectively. Marlborough posted a slight increase of 0.82% over the 3 months to April. The average value in Nelson is now $799,144, Tasman is $829,427, and Marlborough is $703,836.

    QV Property Consultant, Craig Russel said “In the Tasman and Nelson markets, demand for homes within the $500,000 to $800,000 price range is still strong, with multiple offers being a common occurrence.”

    “Pricing remains a key determinate, with accurate pricing required to avoid properties languishing on the market for an extended period, and with multiple price reductions.”

    “Although we have seen modest growth over recent months we are still facing economic headwinds, and with the quieter winter period approaching, it is likely that values will remain flat over the next few months.”

    West Coast

    Our QV House Price Index for the April brought mixed results for the region with values down 2.60% over the past three months, indicating recent volatility. However, annual growth remains at 1.87% higher than the same time last year.

    Average home values in Westland rose 0.27% to $471,390 this quarter. While they decreased by 3.80% to $375,858 in Buller and by 3.55% to $445,433 in Grey.

    Canterbury

    The Christchurch city average home value rose slightly by 0.88% in the past three months to April to $776,636 and are now 1.35% higher than a year ago.

    Meanwhile home values in Hurunui rose 0.76% in the past three months to $645,875 but were down 0.89% year on year. While Waimakariri rose 0.52% over the past quarter to an $721,149 which is 0.47% higher than they were a year ago.

    QV registered valuer Olivia Brownie said, “In the three months to April we’ve seen more positive market movement for Christchurch City and the neighbouring districts. We have seen slightly more activity over the previous month which can be attributed to some more affordability and a slight reduction in the cost of borrowing.”

    “The market is currently seeing a balance in supply and demand, with buyers having a good range of options and sellers not expecting immediate price increases. Well-presented and located homes are transacting with buyers having the option to leave less appealing stock to the side or negotiating on price. Overall the market movement is minimal and we are seeing a somewhat steady property market.”

    Dunedin

    Our QV House Price Index for April 2025 shows values dipped slightly in Dunedin City overall by an average of -0.73% over the past quarter, with Dunedin’s average home value now $646,378, which is just 0.04% lower than the same time last year. Dunedin’s central suburbs saw the greatest quarterly increase up 1.40%.

    QV Property Consultant Robin Graham said, “Listing levels in Dunedin remain high when compared to the same period last year, with downsizing activity occurring within the owner occupier market. Demand levels remain firm for Mosgiel, followed by Maori Hill and Saint Clair, however agents continue to report that heightened levels of supply, mean vendor price points need to be realistic.”

    “Overall property values in the region are flatlining, with only minor growth in isolated areas and softening sentiment in Dunedin among first home buyers and investors when compared to earlier in the year.”

    Queenstown

    Residential property values are continuing their slight downward trend across the Queenstown Lakes District in this quarter.

    Our QV House Price Index for April 2025 shows the average home value reduced by 0.43% over the past three months to $1,818,422. Home values in Queenstown are now -0.45% lower on average than at the same time last year.

    Southland

    Invercargill values rose 0.21% over the past three months to top half a million with an average value of $501,322, which is 4.01% higher than the same time last year.

    While in Gore, values increased 3.15% over the quarter to $418,768 which is 0.22% higher than a year ago. And in Southland values rose were up 1.88% over the past three months to $535,303 which is 6.56% higher than a year ago.

    QV registered valuer Andrew Ronald said the region’s affordability and consistent performance underpin buyer interest. We are still experiencing strong demand from first home buyers seeking entry level properties, typically under $500,000.

    “Investor activity continues to increase, although not in any significant levels yet. There is still limited demand for upper price bracket properties,” he said.

  • Serious crash, Takapau, Central Hawke’s Bay

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 2 near Takapau this morning, which has closed the State Highway.

    The two vehicle crash was reported to Police just before 7.30am.

    Initial indications are there are serious injuries.

    Motorists are advised there are diversions in place via Fraser Road and Marahakeke Road.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.

    ENDS

  • Weather News – Mostly settled weather, with a few showers in the mix – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 12th – Thursday 15th May – This week is shaping up to be a much more settled week compared to the severe weather of last week. However, that will come with some days of rain for others, mostly in the South Island. With only a few weeks of autumn left, temperatures remain steady.

    For much of New Zealand, it is going to be a fine weather week. This is especially true for the North Island, where settled conditions will be the prevailing theme. The odd shower may pop up in western areas at times, and there’s a brief chance of showers in the east late Tuesday into Wednesday. However, for the South Island, it’s a mixed bag of weather. While today (Monday) remains fine apart from odd showers, a front is expected to move up the South Island on Tuesday morning, bringing rain for the lower and western parts of the island.  

    The rain in the South Island is forecast to clear by Tuesday night, as the front weakens significantly.  

    MetService Meteorologist Surprise Mhlongo states, “Midweek sees a clearance of the rain but also a slight and short-lived drop in maximum temperatures for the Island, as the wind turns southwesterly. Overnight temperatures are expected to drop below 3 degrees for some places in Otago, leading to the possibility of frosty nights,”

    Another front is forecast to arrive in the South Island on Thursday morning, with yet another rainy day for the lower and western parts of the island.

  • Boots on the Ground make a $164M Footprint

    Source: Predator Free 2050

    Predator Free 2050 Limited (PF2050 Limited or the Company) is celebrating remarkable contributions by the collective of predator free landscape projects nationwide. A target of $164M of non-government contribution to work on urban and rural land has been more than met in what is proving to be an unprecedented community effort. “The belief and commitment from communities is truly inspiring,” says PF2050 Limited Chair Denise Church. “Having so many people and organisations investing in the movement not only financially but also through in-kind support demonstrates the power of collective action toward achieving the Predator Free 2050 goal.”
    The goal of eradicating rats, mustelids, and possums across two-thirds of Aotearoa New Zealand, the urban and rural areas where people live, work, and play, has morphed from an ambitious “moonshot” into a feasible proposition. Beyond financial backing, volunteer efforts have become an invaluable asset, uniting a generation in a shared purpose and delivering what would normally come with substantial costs.
    The tireless efforts of projects with boots on the ground, and supported by PF2050 Limited, have proved that predators can be eliminated in urban and rural areas. Thanks to those efforts, as of 31 March 2025, communities have already contributed more than $164M in non-government support for 18 major projects since their inception. This meets a key target for community contribution and is a testament to the unwavering dedication of hundreds of Kiwis working on urban and rural land to protect Aotearoa New Zealand’s biodiversity before it’s too late. Support has come in the forms of cash, in-kind donations, and the value of volunteer labour, and it more than matches the PF2050 Limited contribution of $92M to this work.
    Year after year, Predator Free 2050 projects have proven that, with a combined collective effort from communities, philanthropists, councils, and volunteers, people are willing to put more on the line to bring nature back to our communities and the places we live, work and play. From visible nature gains to economic and public health gains and strengthened communities, the payback is significant.
    It is a great achievement so far, but to reach the PF2050 goal, more is needed. While PF2050 Limited and the projects it supports remain committed to sustaining momentum, they face the end of funding from Jobs for Nature and the Provincial Growth Fund. The collective of predator free projects and PF2050 Limited will be working to raise new funds to advance this essential work in our cities, towns, farms and forests and to develop even more efficient and scalable predator free approaches. So much has been achieved by the community already that it is unthinkable to let the momentum falter.
    PF2050 Limited, a Crown-owned charitable company established in 2016, plays a pivotal role in this transformative movement. The Company focuses on supporting large-scale predator elimination projects and breakthrough scientific innovations, supporting professionally delivered, community-led initiatives, in its mission to address a critical biodiversity crisis. The Predator Free 2050 goal, a bold national commitment to eradicate possums, rats, and mustelids by 2050, has achieved remarkable funding success.

  • No congestion charging for goods vehicles, says Transporting New Zealand

    Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

    Transporting New Zealand told today’s [note: Monday] Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee at Parliament that goods vehicles should be exempt from time-of-use charging.
    Transporting New Zealand Chief Executive Dom Kalasih and Head of Policy & Advocacy Billy Clemens listed four key improvements that would maximise time of use savings for businesses and consumers as part of their submission on the Land Transport Management (Time of Use Charging) Amendment Bill.
    The recommendations were:
    1. That the legislation exempts freight vehicles and public transport vehicles from paying time-of-use charges.
    2. That the legislation does not allow differentiated time-of-use charges according to vehicle class.
    3. That the legislation specifies assessments of the impact of time-of-use charging include the expected impacts on the supply chain and freight movement.
    4. That the legislation enables scheme boards, with the approval of impacted local authorities and the Minister, to implement short-term trials ahead of a scheme being put in place.
    Clemens told the Committee that many in the road freight industry are understandably wary of freight efficiency tools focusing on revenue raising rather than boosting the productivity of the supply chain.
    “We’ve seen examples of de-facto congestion charging at Port of Auckland where they introduced peak-based vehicle booking systems that were initially introduced at relatively modest rates… [and then the] Port of Auckland realised it was an excellent revenue raising tool.
    “So our members are looking at that and thinking: ‘These are always sold to us on productivity grounds… but once things get settled in it’s pretty tempting to turn the system into a revenue lever.’
    “I think you’ve probably heard from some local authorities and councils suggesting [time of use charging] would be a helpful revenue tool.”
    Transporting New Zealand also called for the legislation to reference freight impacts and good supply chain outcomes to provide further reassurance to freight businesses and their customers.

  • Health and Employment – Struggling hospice nurses shattered by pay equity changes – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    This year’s Hospice Awareness Week comes as hospices struggle to keep their doors open because of a lack of Government funding and nurses’ chances of fair pay shattered by the removal of their pay equity claim, NZNO says.
    The New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) hospice pay equity claim was filed in late-2023 covering 27 hospices employing its members. That claim, alongside nine others for NZNO, were thrown out by the Government last week with its to pay equity law changes.
    Hospice New Zealand today said Te Whatu Ora had refused to adjust their funding so hospice nurses and health care assistants could be paid the same as their hospital counterparts. Hospices could not afford to fund the widening pay gap as at least 35% of hospice nurses’ wages came from fundraising and donations because of chronic underfunding of the sector.
    NZNO delegate and hospice nurse Donna Burnett says hospice nurses are demoralised and angered by last week’s announcement.
    “Hospices are already facing service cutbacks, with a strong possibility of closures in small region because of the current lack of funding. It is not sustainable. On top of this, at the swipe of a pen and a blink of an eye, Government pulled pay equity out from under us.”
    Due to New Zealand’s aging population, the crisis for hospices will only worsen if the Government doesn’t step up and properly fund the sector, she says.
    “We are meant to be raising awareness about hospices this week, but the reality is people need to be aware of what’s happening to us nurses and health care assistants because it impacts our patients.
    “Without pay equity and a fully funded sector, hospices will keep losing nurses and health care assistants to better paying hospitals or overseas health systems.
    “Dying New Zealanders and their whānau have enough to worry about without not being able to access hospice care because of short staffing which is a direct result of Government decisions,” Donna Burnett says.

  • Local News – Stellar lineup of speakers for Porirua’s BizFest

    Source: Porirua City Council

    BizFest in Porirua will take place on 1 July – a day that aims to inspire, connect and share business knowledge.
    Run jointly by Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira and Porirua City Council, BizFest 2025: Kōpū i te pae – Light up the Horizon celebrates the courage of those who seek new business opportunities, the wisdom of those who navigate uncertain times, and the collective resilience and strength of our people.
    1 July will provide opportunities to engage in three key areas over the course of the day, with speakers, panel discussions and other kōrero:
    – What’s on the economic horizon for our region and city
    – How business leaders are navigating uncertain economic conditions
    – Seizing opportunities during times of change and the key ingredients for innovation and success.
    Key speakers include Animation Research Ltd’s Ben Taylor, Infometrics chief executive and principal economist Brad Olsen, and software engineer, director of Fibre Fale, Young New Zealander of the year and Porirua’s own Eteroa Lafaele. More will be announced soon.
    Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira Pou Ohanga Boyd Scirkovich will open BizFest with an overview of the first Economic Development and Investment Strategy for the Rūnanga.
    “We are excited to partner with the Council to bring BizFest to our whānau and community,” he says.
    “The event is an opportunity to shine a light on local businesses doing amazing things. We are surrounded by abundant potential here in Porirua and have unique talents within our diverse communities that thrive on the global stage. We hope Bizfest provides the opportunity for people to come together to support each other and explore new areas of collaboration.”
    Porirua Mayor Anita Baker, who has a background in business, says the event offers plenty to Porirua employers, business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, new and established businesspeople, and anyone wanting to be inspired.
    “This will be an amazing day – what a fantastic opportunity for the business sector, which has experienced challenging times of late, to listen, share and connect,” she says.
    “Porirua is a place to do business and that’s highlighted by large and medium-sized businesses establishing themselves here recently, along with our small traders that keep our city humming. Our city is always moving forward and I’m excited about BizFest showing off what we have now, what’s coming, and the innovation we’re seeing.”

  • Education – New leadership for school boards association

    Source: Te Whakarōputanga Kaitiaki Kura o Aotearoa (NZSTA)

    Te Whakarōputanga Kaitiaki Kura o Aotearoa – New Zealand School Boards Association (formerly NZSTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Meredith Kennett as Interim President, following the recent departure of long-serving President Lorraine Kerr MZNM.
    Lorraine recently departed NZSBA after some 19 years as President and after an even longer period of involvement in the organisation since becoming a school board member in 1989.
    NZSBA and its members wish her the very best for the future.
    Meredith, who is in her second term on the organisation’s National Board, will lead it through to the next board and president elections in 2026.
    Meredith brings a wealth of experience in leadership, communication, and governance. She has spent most of her career in professional learning & development and human resources, working as a consultant to a wide range of government agencies, schools and private organisations.
    She joined the Hobsonville Point Schools board in 2014 and became a member of the Whangārei Girls’ High School board in 2021. Meredith was first elected to the National Board of NZSBA in 2020 and, in 2022, became a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors.
    On being appointed Interim President, Meredith says she is “incredibly proud and humbled” to be entrusted by her fellow National Board members to lead the organisation forward. She looks forward to being a “fresh set of eyes” and helping the organisation grasp the significant opportunities for it that lie ahead.
    NZSBA warmly welcomes Meredith into the role and look forward to her leadership as we continue to grow and evolve to meet the needs of school boards throughout Aotearoa.

  • Protect the Tribunal, Protect the Treaty: Oppose the Government’s Review of the Waitangi Tribunal – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government’s proposed review of the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 is a clear attempt to undermine the Tribunal’s independence and diminish Māori rangatiratanga, the PSA says.
    Janice Panoho, Kaihautū Māori of the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi, rejects Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka’s claim that the review is intended to “refocus” the Tribunal to its original intent.
    “Māori and Treaty partners across the motu see this move for what it is: a political attempt to weaken one of the few institutions that holds the Crown accountable to its obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi,” Panoho says.
    “For nearly 50 years, the Waitangi Tribunal has played a vital role in advancing justice for Māori. It has provided a platform for Māori voices, upheld the mana of Te Tiriti, and made recommendations that have shaped the very foundations of the Māori-Crown relationship,” Panoho says.
    “This review is not about efficiency or clarity, it is about control. It is a clear attempt to undermine the Tribunal’s independence and diminish Māori rangatiratanga.
    “The proposal to limit the Tribunal’s scope and reframe its inquiries according to a political agenda, as outlined in the coalition agreement between National and New Zealand First, is deeply concerning. Rather than strengthening the Tribunal, the review threatens to erase decades of progress toward honouring Te Tiriti and addressing the injustices faced by generations of whānau, hapū, and iwi.
    “The so called Independent Technical Advisory Group (ITAG), despite including a handful of Māori members, lacks transparency and accountability. It is not representative of the whānau, hapū, and iwi who have engaged with the Tribunal for decades. The rushed timeline for engagement and legislation adds to the concerns.
    “This review occurs at a time when Māori communities are already experiencing the impacts of cost-cutting measures across Te Arawhiti, Te Aka Whai Ora, and other kaupapa Māori initiatives. The cumulative effect is a sustained attack on Māori rights, institutions, and leadership.
    The PSA and Te Rūnanga o Ngā Toa Āwhina, which represents the PSA’s 11,000 members who identify as Māori, strongly oppose the move and call on the Government to:
    • Halt the review of the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975
    immediately.
    • Uphold the integrity and independence of the
    Waitangi Tribunal.
    • Honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi in both word and
    • Engage meaningfully with Māori, not after
    decisions are made, but before.
    “The future of the Waitangi Tribunal is not just a Māori issue, it is a matter of national integrity, justice, and honouring our founding covenant,” Panoho says.