Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

A significant expansion of stem cell transplant services will help patients access critical, life-saving treatments without delay, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Every New Zealander deserves access to timely treatment that can save their life,” Mr Brown said.

“Over the next three years, Health New Zealand will increase investment by $27.1 million to strengthen the workforce, expand hospital capacity, and upgrade infrastructure so more patients can receive timely stem cell transplant care.”

Stem cell transplants are a critical treatment for people with blood cancers and related conditions. However, demand for allogeneic transplants has outpaced capacity in recent years, leaving many patients waiting far too long.

“Too many Kiwis face distressing delays for these life-saving procedures. Health New Zealand has worked urgently with clinicians on a plan to boost transplant capacity and reduce waitlists. This investment delivers on that commitment.”

The funding will enable:

• 27 – 38 per cent more patients to receive allogeneic transplants when they need them, depending on case complexity.
• Recruitment of 79 new full-time staff across the three transplant centres in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
• Increased inpatient bed capacity at Auckland City Hospital and Wellington Regional Hospital.
• Infrastructure upgrades at Wellington Regional Hospital to address current physical constraints.

“Health New Zealand is also introducing a digital tool that will support transplant scheduling and provide a nationwide overview of wait times and treatment requirements, helping to improve the delivery of stem cell transplants. The tool is expected to be in place in the first half of 2026.”

This builds on a $6.11 million boost in 2024/25 for stem cell transplant services, which enabled Health New Zealand to begin improvements immediately.

“The additional $27.1 million investment will deliver a transformative change for patients and their families. By reducing wait times, expanding specialist capacity, and upgrading critical infrastructure, we’re ensuring that more New Zealanders receive life-saving stem cell transplants when they need them.”

Source: New Zealand Police

A change of clothes failed to change the outcome for an alleged burglar in Manurewa this morning.

Just after 3am, Counties Manukau Central Police received a report of a burglary in progress at a dental clinic in Manurewa.

Inspector Warrick Adkin says units were quickly on scene at the business.

“One man was quickly arrested by staff on site, while a second offender took off in a vehicle,” he says.

“He didn’t drive far and abandoned the vehicle nearby, behind a building.”

There, Inspector Adkin says the man changed his clothes and walked away on foot.

“Unfortunately for the man, police officers outwitted his attempt to evade and apprehended him near Maich Road.”

Police soon took the 36-year-old man into custody.

Both he and the second 36-year-old arrested at the dental clinic have been charged with burglary.

They will appear in the Manukau District Court today.

“This morning’s arrest shows the capability of our frontline staff,” Inspector Adkin says.

“It’s also a reminder that good CCTV and quick reporting greatly assists us in being able to stop offenders in their tracks.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Source: Tertiary Education Commission

Last updated 11 September 2025

This page has information for providers who currently offer work-based learning, or who may be interested in offering it in the future. The page will be updated regularly as the vocational education and training (VET) reforms work progresses.
This page has information for providers who currently offer work-based learning, or who may be interested in offering it in the future. The page will be updated regularly as the vocational education and training (VET) reforms work progresses.

There are currently a small number of private training establishments (PTEs) that offer work-based learning, and these will continue unchanged in 2026. Any learner currently enrolled in work-based learning will continue in 2026 and is unlikely to notice an immediate change.
The work-based learning that is currently completed by divisions within the New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology (BCITO, HITO, MITO, Connexis, Competenz, EarnLearn, ServiceIQ, PrimaryITO and Careerforce) will move into the Industry Skills Boards (ISBs), but for employers and learners things will seem unchanged and the branding and personnel will remain the same.
During 2026 and 2027 all work-based learning will move out of ISBs and to providers. This is a significant and important system change, and the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) will require information from the parties involved to ensure the changes we approve represent the best option for both industry and learners.
Decisions about which provider receives the provision and learners from the work-based learning divisions of ISBs will consider:

industry views on:

what they need from the network of work-based learning, and
whether they support the recommended provider receiving transferred provision

information about the quality of the provider, informed by:

the plans they submit to us outlining approaches and capability
previous performance and compliance with TEC requirements (where relevant)
previous performance and compliance with New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA) requirements and quality assurance (where relevant)
sustainability in terms of financial stability and good governance and management
alignment with tertiary education priorities, including those from the Tertiary Education Strategy.

The final decision on the transition of any provision and learners from an ISB to a provider will be made by the TEC Board.
Setting up new private training establishments
We are aware that some industry groups are looking to establish PTEs to deliver work-based learning for their sectors.
The requirements of standing up a PTE and ongoing compliance can be complex. These organisations are different to industry training organisations (ITOs) or polytechnics.
To support understanding of the requirements, we ran a webinar in partnership with NZQA. In this webinar, we shared further information and answered questions.
Webinar on new PTEs
This webinar was held on 29 July. A recording of the webinar is available below.
[embedded content]
More information
For queries about the vocational education and training (VET) reforms, please contact VETinformation@tec.govt.nz.

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

27 seconds ago

EIT has appointed Robin Fabish (Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Mahanga) as its new Pouārahi Māori (Executive Director Māori), bringing extensive experience in education and a deep commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and kaupapa Māori.

Robin, who will be welcomed with pōwhiri at the Tairāwhiti Campus in Gisborne and Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale in December, says he is looking forward to the opportunity.

He joins EIT after more than 30 years in education, most recently as a Leadership Advisor for the Ministry of Education and previously as Principal of Tamatea High School from 2015 to 2024. His earlier roles include Deputy Principal at Te Aute College, Head of Māori at Napier Boys’ High School and Science Teacher at Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Ara Hou.

“Our schools have always had a strong connection with EIT, particularly through the Trades Academy and students moving on to study here. I’ve always admired the role EIT plays in our community, and I am keen to be a part of helping people into meaningful careers and development opportunities.”

He said his existing relationships across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti made the role a natural next step.

“I’ve had strong connections with the marae at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus through various events like the Manu Kōrero competition, and I know a lot of people who work at EIT in Hawke’s Bay as well as in Tairāwhiti.”

Robin said he is looking forward to supporting staff and learners to grow their confidence in kaupapa Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

“My role as Executive Director Māori has a strong focus on giving effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. There are a lot of people who understand the need for an equity focus and that giving effect to Te Tiriti and respecting mana whenua are really important things. I’m looking forward to assisting our people to build on that philosophy.”

Robin is nearing the end of his Doctor of Education, examining how english-medium principals give practical effect to Te Tiriti o Waitangi. His research highlights the growing willingness among school leaders to support Māori learners, even as many navigate the challenges of how to put that into practice.

“Supporting Māori to succeed as Māori means Te Aho a Māui working to help ākonga Māori to be strong in our language, culture and identity, while also being strong in the Western world.”

He said both his career and his doctoral research have prepared him well for the role.

“To be able to bring my experience in the education sector, practical experience, but also theoretical experience, is something that I’m really excited to do to support outcomes for ākonga Māori, but also to support staff to develop their capability.”

Robin’s personal journey reclaiming te reo Māori has shaped much of his career.

“My mother grew up in an era where learning te reo was discouraged. For me, understanding my culture and identity has been a journey since I was young. There are so many of us who are on that journey now, and being able to support others in that space is something that I find really motivating.”

Robin and his whānau moved to Hawke’s Bay in 2004 and decided to stay. He and his wife Sharron have three adult children: Te Aorewa, Tiaki and Kamoe. Outside of work, Robin enjoys music and plays guitar and drums. He also enjoys waka ama.

EIT Operations Lead, Glen Harkness, welcomed Robin, saying his experience will be a real asset to EIT.

“Robin brings a wealth of experience and deep connections across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. His leadership in education and commitment to supporting Māori success will be invaluable as we strengthen partnerships with iwi and Māori communities and create opportunities for ākonga to thrive. We warmly welcome Robin and his whānau to EIT.”

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

2 days ago

A final-year Environmental Studies student at EIT is mapping North Island robin territories in Mōhi Bush as part of her negotiated research project, complementing a predator control programme run by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council (HBRC) and Department of Conservation (DOC).

Tiana Gillett’s research involves identifying male and female robins and noting their territories in Mōhi bush. Her findings are helping DOC and HBRC assess how the population has established since birds were translocated to the area in 2016 and 2017.

The project has brought Tiana’s studies full circle. In her first year, she took part in fieldwork at Mōhi Bush, setting tracking tunnels and bait stations for rats and possums. Now she is using those same skills to study the very birds those early efforts aimed to protect.

So far, Tiana has identified at least 17 robins across five transect lines, including seven confirmed pairs. Early estimates suggested there might be only seven or eight birds in the area, making the current numbers a positive indication that the population is establishing well.

“The robins hadn’t been monitored since 2018” Tiana said. “We didn’t know if the population was increasing and what impact predator control had on the robins. My research in estimating the robin population helps establish baseline data for future studies into breeding success and assessing whether the population can be sustained.”

The research gained further momentum when DOC carried out bird banding in Mōhi Bush and Hundred Acre Bush, supporting the monitoring work. Tiana assisted DOC staff with the banding, learning to set up mist nets and clap traps, record data, and safely band birds.

“It was an amazing experience; we banded 9 robins. I fed the robins mealworms before the banding project, and one robin even tried to steal the mealworms from my container,” she said.

The collaboration has helped Tiana confirm her earlier field observations and will guide the next phase of her research.

Tiana, who grew up in Hawke’s Bay, hopes to work with DOC or HBRC after graduating and is considering postgraduate study.

“I would love to keep working in biodiversity and conservation. This project has really solidified my passion.”

She said the practical fieldwork and support from lecturers had been a highlight of her degree.

“The lecturers are so supportive and hands-on, and the chance to get outside and do real conservation work has been so beneficial. Not all students at other universities get that opportunity. Being part of a close-knit group has been really special.”

HBRC Senior Biodiversity Advisor Natalie de Burgh said the project highlights the value of practical conservation experience.

“From HBRC’s perspective, we are really pleased to support a new cohort of conservation professionals, and to see the enthusiasm from students who have come through the Mōhi Bush rodent control project. We are seeing the value in enabling this practical hands-on experience to shape students future study and work.”

EIT Environmental Studies Lecturer Dr Amelia McQueen said Tiana had shown outstanding progress.

“Tiana has progressed so well as a student. Her knowledge and skill base are amazing. She has such a great can-do attitude and has been incredibly focused and passionate about her North Island robin research project.”

“I am so pleased that the Department of Conservation banding opportunity came about and that she was invited to be a part of this. She now has some very special skills and experiences that not many people in New Zealand get to have.”

Assistant Head of School Lisa Turnbull said Tiana’s journey reflects the programme’s focus on applied learning.

“It has been fantastic to see her develop from a first-year student into an emerging researcher. Her dedication to the North Island robin project demonstrates both her growing expertise and her passion for protecting our native species.”

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

1 day ago

Studying the Master of Digital Business at EIT has helped aviation professional Vinodh Dharmarajah build on more than a decade with leading airlines.

Vinodh brought extensive international experience to his studies, having worked with Qatar Airways, Sri Lankan Airlines and British Airways, as well as in senior management roles overseeing multiple carriers.

Determined to strengthen his qualifications and future career prospects, he moved from Sri Lanka to New Zealand at 36 to complete the 18-month master’s programme at EIT in Auckland.

“I chose EIT as it offered a balance of academic quality, practical learning, and strong support for international students. The course structure, along with the opportunity to engage with experienced lecturers and a diverse student cohort, made EIT the right place for me to progress both personally and professionally.”

Vinodh says he enjoyed the master’s strategic focus on how digital technologies are reshaping modern businesses.

“The programme is well-structured, with each course offering relevant and up-to-date content that aligns closely with current industry needs.”

He says EIT’s academic quality and professional learning environment gave him the foundation to transition into the New Zealand workforce.

“The lecturers are not only academically strong but also bring industry experience and connections. The quality of teaching and the emphasis on deadlines, integrity and high standards really impressed me.”

While studying, Vinodh gained local experience through an internship with Williams Property Services Group. His potential was quickly recognised, leading to his current full-time position as Strategy and Development Manager.

Now 37, Vinodh said he is grateful for the opportunity to study full-time again and credits the support of his wife, who worked throughout his studies.

“Not many people get an opportunity at that age to become a full-time student, so I wanted to capitalise 100 per cent,” he said. “I really miss EIT. It was one of the best 18 months of my life.”

Vinodh has his sights set firmly on building a strong career in New Zealand and hopes to one day start his own travel company.

For students considering EIT, Vinodh says the key is to get involved and make the most of every opportunity.

“EIT is an excellent environment for students who are looking to build practical skills and develop professionally. The programmes are well structured, industry-relevant, and delivered in a way that encourages independent thinking while offering strong academic support.”

“To make the most of the experience, I recommend getting actively involved, connecting with your lecturers, joining leadership programmes, attending mentor sessions, and taking part in industry-linked opportunities. The more you engage, the more rewarding and meaningful your experience at EIT will be.”   

EIT Auckland Campus Director Cherie Freeman says Vinodh’s journey is a great example of how EIT Auckland empowers professionals to take the next step in their careers.

“Our Master of Digital Business programme is designed to combine academic excellence with practical, industry-relevant learning, helping students like Vinodh transition successfully into leadership roles in New Zealand. We are proud to provide an environment where international students feel supported and can thrive both personally and professionally.”

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

The roundabout and associated works at the State Highway 3 / Mangorei Road intersection are now complete, wrapping up construction on the SH3 New Plymouth to Hāwera safety improvements project.

Over the past two years, the project has introduced a range of safety upgrades designed to reduce the risk of serious crashes. These include 12 kilometres of wide centrelines and flexible median barriers, providing greater separation between opposing traffic and reducing head-on collision risk.

The final stage of works focused on the SH3 intersection with Mangorei Road, where a new roundabout has been constructed to improve safety and traffic flow. 

Crews have now resurfaced the full site from Burgess Hill and installed a wide centreline – marking the completion of the Mangorei works 3 months ahead of schedule. 

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi senior project manager, Calvin Rorke, says these improvements are part of NZTA’s commitment to creating a safer transport network across Taranaki.

“We’re really pleased to deliver these improvements for the Taranaki community. The wide centrelines, flexible median barriers, and the new roundabout will make a real difference in reducing the risk of serious crashes and helping everyone get home safely.” 

Nearby Mangorei School has been looking forward to the new roundabout in particular.

Principal Gary Poulgrain says safety at the intersection of Mangorei Road and SH3 has always been a big concern for the school community. 

“The new roundabout and other improvements give parents and whānau much more confidence when travelling to and from school. It’s great to see these changes making a real difference for local families.”

The works at the intersection also include a path to Burgess Hill for pedestrians and cyclists.

NZTA thanks the local community, road users, and stakeholders for their patience and support throughout the project. Together, these changes will help prevent deaths and serious injuries on this section of SH3.

About the wider project

SH3 between New Plymouth and Hāwera is considered a high risk rural road. In the five-year period from 2019 to 2023, there were 11 deaths and 47 serious injuries due to crashes on this section of the highway.

SH3 New Plymouth to Hāwera

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Brian McKinney, Gore CIB:

A man has been charged in relation to a suspicious house fire in Waikaia last year.

Just after midnight on 21 February 2024, emergency services were called to the fire on Elswick Street.

Today, Police have charged a 35-year-old Dunedin man with arson.

He is due to appear in the Gore District Court on 17 December.

We’d like to thank the members of the public who provided information to Police throughout this investigation, to ensure the person responsible can be held accountable.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

Source: New Zealand Government

Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced a series of appointments to the Hauora Māori Advisory Committee.

Tā Mark Solomon has been appointed permanent Chair, with Mr Tereki Stewart, Mr Te Ururoa Flavell, and Dr Jamie-Lee Rahiri appointed as members for three-year terms.

“These members are respected leaders with extensive experience advocating for the needs and aspirations of Māori whānau and communities,” Mr Brown says.

“The Committee provides Māori with a voice at the highest level of decision-making in the health system. It plays a vital role in improving Māori health outcomes and supporting the Government’s commitment to ensuring all New Zealanders, including Māori, have access to timely, quality healthcare.

“I look forward to working with the new members to drive results and deliver on the Government’s priorities and key focus areas.

“I also want to acknowledge the contributions of Parekawhia McLean, the outgoing Chair, who will continue to support improvements in Māori health outcomes through her role on the Health New Zealand Board.”

All terms of office will commence on 1 December 2025.

The Hauora Māori Advisory Committee (HMAC) was established under the Healthy Futures Act. Its role is to advise the Minister on any matter related to Māori health that the Minister requests. Members are appointed by the Minister of Health after consulting with the Minister for Māori Development. 

Source: New Zealand Government

Education Minister Erica Stanford welcomed Estonian Education and Research Minister Dr Kristina Kallas to New Zealand this week, providing an opportunity to learn from each other’s successes, lessons, and practices in delivering a world-leading education reform.

“Estonia consistently ranks among the top performers in the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) study,” Ms Stanford says.

“The opportunity to meet in New Zealand with Minister Kallas forms part of my work to engage with international experts and thought leaders, from high-performing education systems, to bring evidence-based best practice into every school and every classroom in New Zealand,” Ms Stanford says.

“I’m particularly interested in how Estonia achieves student success in reading, maths, and science, and how their high-performing education system achieves strong academic achievement with equity and access to digital technology.

“Minister Kallas was here to look at our education reforms, and made comments in the media that many other European countries are also looking closely at New Zealand is doing. She was also very supportive of New Zealand’s knowledge-rich curriculum, which she noted Estonia has had for many years.”

Minister Kallas and Minister Stanford also attended the Teaching and Learning Symposium, hosted by Auckland University of Technology, where Minister Kallas delivered an address on Estonia’s AI-Leap (TI-Hüpe) programme. 

The programme embeds AI literacy and training in higher cognitive processes into schools to help prepare learners for interacting and working with AI.

“AI presents an opportunity for New Zealanders and the Government is committed to helping Kiwis to harness it in their jobs and industries where appropriate. This includes new subjects we are introducing at the secondary level,” Ms Stanford says.

As part of the visit, Minister Kallas also visited schools in Auckland and Wellington to meet with students, school leaders, and senior officials from the Ministry of Education, New Zealand Qualifications Authority, and the Education Review Office.  

Given our shared interest in strengthening collaboration between our countries in science and research, Minister Kallas also met the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor and with Universities New Zealand, including representatives of our universities on the Research Committee. 

“Our meetings have been very insightful and valuable – I acknowledge the outstanding work Minister Kallas and Estonia are doing in their education system.”

Notes to editor:

Estonia has a high-performing education system, recognised for combining high academic achievement with strong equity. It consistently ranks among the top performers in international assessments like the OECD’s latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) study, particularly in reading, math, and science.