Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Peace Action Wellington

Sunday 4 May 2025 – The government has announced an additional $1 billion of military spending today on top of $12 billion of spending already announced over the next four years. These plans will take New Zealand’s annual military budget to approximately 2% of GDP.

“The budget will have the most severe cuts in decades, and yet there are billions to wage war with the United States. This is absolutely the wrong priority, and frankly I find it sickening,” said Valerie Morse, member of Peace Action Wellington.

“Clearly the money is there. It is a matter of priorities. Most New Zealanders would say their priority is a health system that is there for them if they get sick. Right now, that doesn’t exist.”

“Health NZ has just announced 1800 further job cuts. Our doctors, nurses and health care assistants are on strike demanding safe conditions in our hospitals. More than 180,000 people are waiting for their first specialist appointment, with 40% of these waiting more than 4 months. Our people are dying now. These are the real threats to life and security in this country.”

“Where is the multi-billion dollar funding to rebuild our health system? Where is the commitment to investing in broken health infrastructure and an adequate workforce? Instead what we see is a government intent on destroying the public health system, dismantling it to the point it does not function.”

“We firmly reject the entire basis of this $12 billion military spend-up. We keep getting told that the global situation is dangerous and that there are “rising tensions.” This is the US framing their agenda as our problem. It isn’t our problem. Instead, for a healthy and prosperous country, we must steer very clear of being involved with the US military and its murderous imperial adventures.”

“The US is scaremongering about China. It is in the US’s interest to pick a fight with China, to surround it and threaten it. This has absolutely nothing to do with New Zealand’s own defence and security.”

Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
 
Robinson Research Institute, a pioneer in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) research, has received funding of $71million towards setting up and hosting an advanced technology platform in Future Magnetic and Materials Technologies.
 
The funding for the advanced technology platform was announced by Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Shane Reti at Robinson Research Institute’s facility in Lower Hutt, and will operate through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment-administered Strategic Science Investment Fund (SSIF) portfolio over a period of seven years.
 
In line with the objective to grow New Zealand’s hi-tech exports, the advanced technology platform will apply materials and engineering expertise across a range of sectoral themes including space, electric aviation, critical minerals and technologies for fusion energy. The platform will play a crucial role in lifting New Zealand’s innovation capacity, enabling companies to take technology to market, and in accelerating the growth of the domestic manufacturing sector.  
 
Professor Nick Long, director, Robinson Research Institute, said “It is an honour for the Institute to receive this strategic funding. At Robinson, our focus has always been on how applications of HTS can be leveraged to address real-world issues, ranging from propulsion in space to more accessible Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners. With proven capabilities in emerging areas like space and advanced aviation, Robinson is well-placed to drive growth in this area. Initially leveraging our capability in magnetics, the Institute has also developed processing methods for critical minerals from New Zealand resources. This funding will enable us to solve some problems with scaling these methods to commercial levels.”
 
Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research, Professor Magaret Hyland is excited by the possibilities that the funding offers. “Te Herenga Waka has a strong culture of research excellence and the work that our staff undertake has impact on national and international scales.  
 
“A valued part of the University community, Robinson Research Institute has a strong track record of projects evolving into pilot projects or commercial enterprises. This new platform is a significant opportunity for Robinson to strengthen collaborations with the wider research community, in a way that delivers stronger outcomes for Aotearoa New Zealand. With an established network of research and commercialisation partnerships, within New Zealand and abroad, I can see Robinson now playing an even bigger role in enhancing New Zealand’s capabilities in advanced technology.”
 
The objectives of the platform will include developing workforce capability through internships and postgraduate study, and encouraging early career researchers to take their research beyond the laboratory. Projects from the platform will also enhance local and international research and commercial partnerships, and encourage inward investment into the New Zealand research and development sector.

Source: Tax Justice Aotearoa

Tax reform advocacy group Tax Justice Aotearoa is calling on the Government and opposition parties to remedy the failures in our taxation system illustrated by a new report from the Centre of International Corporate Tax Accountability and Research, which looks at transparency and corporate tax issues in the heavily public-funded aged care sector.

“Instead of talking about the possibility of reducing our corporate tax rate of 28 per cent, the Government should be finding ways to increase financial transparency, and ensuring that multinational corporates pay their fair share of current corporate tax by reviewing the thin capitalisation rules,” says Glenn Barclay, Chairperson of Tax Justice Aotearoa.

“This is particularly urgent where public funds are paid to multinational corporations delivering services on behalf of the government.”

The report focuses on the transparency of public funding in the aged residential care sector, and shows how our tax system allows multi-national providers to avoid paying the taxes that the public would expect them to pay, demonstrating this through the example of UK-owned BUPA.

BUPA had an average effective corporate tax rate over the past decade of only 4 per cent, much lower than the headline rate of 28 per cent, driven largely by tax-free capital gains.

In addition, the company appears to have used inter-company interest payments on a substantial loan to an Australian-incorporated BUPA company, which may have reduced taxable income by around $151m over the decade, trimming tax revenue by as much as $27 million over that period.

“This ability of multi-nationals to set up loans between subsidiary companies in different countries and then claim tax deductibility on the interest from those loans is a major issue,” says Glenn Barclay.

“While entirely legal, this ‘thin capitalisation’ is an approach that most members of the public would find questionable. It also gives multi-national players an advantage over wholly New Zealand-owned companies in competitive markets.”

“New Zealand does have thin capitalisation rules that are supposed to prevent this kind of activity, but this example shows that they are simply not strong enough,” says Glenn Barclay.

“We note that Australia and the UK have introduced a ‘fixed ratio’ test for interest payments on related party debt which limits allowable interest deductions in any one year to 30 per cent of gross earnings and this is the kind of measure that we should also seriously consider.”

“On a related matter, we note that IRD is looking at relaxing the existing thin capitalisation rules for infrastructure projects as part of its work programme agreement with the Minister of Revenue.

This could well be in the Budget and would be a big step in the wrong direction,” says Glenn Barclay. “We urge the Government not to go down this route, but instead look at tightening this provision across the economy.”

The report questions the tax exemptions in the sector for capital gains arising from revaluations of assets, which is significant given the amount of real estate that companies in the sector own.

“It seems that aged residential care providers are intentionally using the capital gains they make from selling both rights to occupy properties to new residents, and sometimes the properties themselves, as part of their income streams,” says Glenn Barclay.

“If this is true, then the current law, which says that capital gains on sales made intentionally for that purpose are taxable, should be enforced. If, for some reason, it is not enforceable, then the law should be clarified. A comprehensive tax on capital gains would resolve these issues in a much clearer way.”

The report also raises questions about the level of funding for the aged care sector and the extent to which unaccountable multi-national and other private providers should be involved in service delivery.

“The report indirectly supports the need for more funding for aged care generally as the population ages and this is yet another example of a demand for services that only a more progressive tax system that properly taxes wealth can address,” says Glenn Barclay.

Source: RSA

Following their hard-fought victory over the Brumbies in Canberra last month, the Hurricanes have demonstrated that their strength extends beyond the rugby pitch.

In a meaningful gesture, all 23 jerseys worn by Hurricanes players during the DHL Super Rugby Pacific’s Anzac Round have been donated to the RSA. The aim is to help generate funds in support of New Zealand’s military veterans and their whānau. Each jersey, featuring the RSA’s iconic red poppy, has been personally signed by the player who wore it.

RSA National President Sir Wayne Shelford expressed deep gratitude for the Hurricanes’ ongoing generosity.

“Time and again, the Hurricanes prove they’re not just fierce competitors but compassionate community leaders. Last year’s jersey auction raised more than $11,000 for our support services, and we’re truly thankful to have the chance to raise even more this year.”

Hurricanes CEO Avan Lee echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the alignment between the two organizations’ values.

“We’re proud to support the RSA and the crucial work they do for our veterans,” said Lee. “Giving back is a big part of who we are as a club. Connection and humility are two values we hold dear, and the RSA’s Poppy—such a powerful national symbol—will always be worn with honour by our team.”

The jerseys are listed for sale on auction site Trade me and close on Thursday 8 May and can be viewed here:https://rnzrsa.info/TMstore

Source: MetService
 
– Cold nights with widespread single-digit temperatures; frost risk for the central North Island.
– Monday morning saw some of the lowest temperatures recorded so far this year, including Christchurch: -0.5°C, Taumarunui: -1.7°C, Taupo: -1.8°C and Masterton: -0.5°C.
– Clear skies dominate early in the week under a ridge of high pressure.
– Rain and warmer, humid air arrive late week as a trough moves in from the Tasman.
– Strong northwesterlies develop over the lower South Island ahead of rain on Thursday.

MetService is forecasting a week of two halves, with frosty mornings, clear days and chilly nights to kick off the week, then wet weather looming toward the end.

Settled weather and cool overnight temperatures are expected for many, as a broad ridge of high pressure dominates Aotearoa New Zealand early this week. Single digit overnight temperatures will be felt by much of the country over the next few days, with the potential for central North Island areas to drop into the negatives on Tuesday morning.

The ridge will bring clear skies for most, but it does push some coastal cloud and a few showers onto the east of the North Island, and the west of the South Island. A return to more normal temperatures is expected heading into Wednesday and Thursday, as northerlies begin to build, drawing warmer air down from the tropics.

“Warmer doesn’t always mean better,” says MetService meteorologist Devlin Lynden. “These relatively settled conditions aren’t expected to last. A band of rain is building in the Tasman, pulling warm, moist air from the tropics, resulting in some wet weather later this week.” As this system approaches, strong northwesterlies are expected to develop over the lower South Island late Wednesday, potentially bringing gusty conditions to exposed areas. This extends to the lower North Island on Friday.

The wet weather is set to move onto the south of Te Waipounamu/South Island early Thursday morning, and quickly move north, affecting much of the country come Friday.

“With a crisp, clear start to the week, and wet conditions approaching, don’t be caught off guard and keep up to date with the latest forecasts at metservice.com” says Lynden.

Source: Skills Group

Skills Group, New Zealand’s largest private training provider, is pioneering the future of vocational education by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its teaching and learning processes.

Skills Group Head of Strategic Development Andy Cooper says by leveraging cutting-edge AI technology, Skills Group is enhancing student performance, streamlining administrative tasks, and personalising the learning experience for students across various trades.

“AI tools are transforming how Skills Group creates and delivers vocational training content,” he says.

“These tools assist educators in designing engaging, industry-relevant learning materials tailored to the diverse needs of students. With AI’s ability to analyse large datasets, Skills Group can provide differentiated learning pathways that ensure every student receives the right support at the right time.”

AI also enables the rapid development of resources such as multilingual content and context-specific examples, ensuring materials are accessible and effective for all learners.

Andy says one of the most powerful uses of AI at Skills Group is in personalising learning experiences.

“Adaptive learning systems track individual progress and customise learning pathways to suit the unique needs and learning styles of each student. This helps ensure that learners receive the support they need to overcome challenges and stay on track to achieve success.”

AI’s ability to provide targeted interventions allows Skills Group to proactively address skill gaps, ensuring that no student is left behind in their training journey.

With the rise of online learning, Skills Group is also planning to use AI to create interactive simulations and immersive environments where students can develop practical skills remotely. These AI-powered tools allow students to engage in real-world scenarios, practicing tasks and techniques without the need for physical equipment, all while reinforcing theoretical knowledge. This enhances the hands-on experience that vocational education is known for, even in remote learning settings.

Andy says AI is also playing a crucial role in improving administrative efficiency at Skills Group. Routine tasks such as drafting emails, generating feedback, and creating reports are being automated, freeing up educators to focus more on direct student interaction. By reducing administrative burdens, Skills Group can provide more personalised and meaningful learning experiences.

“AI is helping Skills Group identify areas where students may need additional support. By analysing student performance data, AI provides valuable insights into trends and patterns, enabling tutors to intervene proactively. This helps prevent students from falling behind and ensures they receive the necessary guidance to succeed in their trades.”

Skills Group is committed to empowering its educators with AI tools that enhance teaching and curriculum delivery. AI-assisted lesson planning, resource creation, and learning analytics are just a few examples of how tutors can use technology to create more impactful, tailored learning experiences.

Andy says virtual AI tutors are also being explored as a way of further enriching the learning process by offering academic support to students outside of classroom hours.

As Skills Group continues to integrate AI into its educational practices, the organisation remains dedicated to providing high-quality training that meets the evolving needs of today’s industries.

“AI is not here to replace hands-on skills development, but to complement and enhance it by offering personalised guidance, immersive learning opportunities, and improved administrative efficiency,” Andy says.

“We’re excited to see how AI is transforming vocational education and how it allows us to support our students more effectively.”

Skills Group is continually evaluating and implementing emerging AI technologies with direct applications to vocational education including: neurodiversity-inclusive learning materials; AI for assessment; interactive learning tools; and content development tools.

“AI enables us to create more inclusive, efficient, and personalised learning pathways, ensuring our students are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in their careers.”

About Skills Group

Skills Group is New Zealand’s largest private training establishment, delivering hands-on, real-world education to over 18,000 learners across New Zealand and the world. From school leavers to CEOs, Skills Group supports lifelong learning through practical, industry-aligned training programmes that help people grow their careers, businesses, and communities.

As a trusted partner to government, employers, and educators, Skills Group plays a vital role in shaping New Zealand’s workforce and driving economic growth. Our programmes are built with industry, for industry – ensuring learners gain skills that are relevant, future-focused, and immediately applicable in the workplace.

Whether training the next generation of electricians, upskilling healthcare workers, or supporting leadership development in the boardroom, Skills Group is committed to maximising human potential through lifelong learning.

Source: New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF)

·         NZDF Senior National Representative for Operation Resolution, Commodore Andrew Brown said, “Another important milestone in Operation Resolution has been reached with the work to retrieve important equipment, weapons, ammunition and some debris from in and around HMNZS Manawanui now complete.” This follows the successful removal of diesel fuel, oil and other pollutants from the ship.

·         “I’d like to take this opportunity to formally acknowledge the salvors, Pacific7 Limited & Bay Underwater Services NZ Limited for their careful and thorough work. We also appreciate the local Samoan Authorities and Government officials, who have continued to provide their oversight, expertise and assistance throughout this important work.”

·         “All the equipment, weapons and the ammunition has now been returned to NZ on military flights, and much of the scrap metal debris has gone to be repurposed locally,” said Commodore Brown. “The rest of the debris, along with tanktainers of unusable diesel fuel, pollutants, and oil mix will return to New Zealand on the salvors’ barge for safe disposal.”

·         While sea conditions have delayed lifting the specialised anchoring and mooring installations critical to securing the barge in place over Manawanui, the salvors have spent time in the Port of Apia reconfiguring the barge from a salvage diving setup, to allow for the transport of equipment safely back to NZ.

·         Commodore Brown said, “Every effort has been taken to leave the Manawanui as safe and secure as possible, until a decision is reached on next steps for the ship and the work required for that. In the meantime the Government of Samoa’s Prohibited Area of 2kms around the Manawanui will remain in place.”

·         “With our focus on the next steps for Manawanui, reef and environmental studies are progressing to inform and sit alongside the independent wreck assessment. These will take time, but will provide essential expert advice, to inform government decisions.”

·         Commodore Brown said, “A core NZDF task group remains in Samoa to support the ongoing response, allowing for skilled people to come in at the right point, as we progress the next steps.”

·         “The work to remove potential environmental risks has been extremely technical and challenging, but incredibly important for the marine and coastal environment on Upolu’s south coast and we continue to be absolutely committed to doing the right thing into the future.”