Latest content updates

21st Century IT System for Immigration

Admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:21:00 +0000

A significant Government investment in Immigration New Zealand’s IT system is a further step in increasing immigration’s contribution to the economy, says Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman. Dr Coleman today announced the Government is contributing $75 million towards a new IT system. ‘’This IT initiative is a major step up in INZ’s ability to provide timely, responsive and secure immigration services,’’ says Dr Coleman. ...

Groser to attend 8th WTO Ministerial Conference

Admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:19:00 +0000

Trade Minister Tim Groser will travel to Geneva this week to attend the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) 8th Ministerial Conference. The 15-17 December conference will consider how to best maintain a robust, rules-based multilateral trading system, further work on trade and development, and how to advance the stalled Doha Round. “Obviously this has been a difficult year for the Doha negotiations. The Conference is an opportunity to inject fresh thinking on how to make progress in 2012,” Mr Groser says. ...

Durban climate change outcome welcomed

Beehive — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:13:00 +0000

Climate Change Ministers Nick Smith and Tim Groser have warmly welcomed the outcome of the UN Climate Change negotiations which concluded successfully in Durban today. They paid tribute to the leadership provided by the host, South Africa, which paved the way for a truly comprehensive international agreement. “This agreement meets all the realistic expectations the New Zealand delegation had when it arrived in South Africa two weeks ago,” Mr Groser said. The agreement: ...

Minister Offers Condolences on Death of Journalist

Admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 23:58:00 +0000

Broadcasting Minister Jonathan Coleman says he is shocked by the sudden death of Radio New Zealand journalist Phillip Cottrell over the weekend. Dr Coleman today offered his condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr Cottrell, who died yesterday in Wellington. ‘’Phillip was clearly a well liked person held in high professional regard,’’ says Dr Coleman. ...

New National-led Administration announced

Admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 22:22:00 +0000

Prime Minister John Key today announced the incoming National-led Government’s new Ministry. “National’s line-up is a very strong one, with a mixture of fresh talent and experience,” says Mr Key. “There has been a revamp of some portfolios, and some first-term Ministers have been rewarded for their performance. “The new National-led Government is ready to hit the ground running. There is a lot of work to do as we look to continue implementing our plans to build a stronger economy, reduce debt, and create more jobs. ...

New Kopu Bridge opens

Beehive — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:54:00 +0000

The official opening of the new Kopu Bridge today will come as a huge relief to both holiday motorists and those who rely on the route more regularly, says Transport Minister Steven Joyce. "Work on the $47 million bridge replacement project was brought forward by three years as part of the government's $500 million Jobs and Growth plan. "The project has created about 50 local jobs that would not have otherwise been there, as well as work for local companies involved in supplying materials and providing supporting services. ...

Forum considers food labelling review

Beehive — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 06:56:00 +0000

Food Safety Minister Kate Wilkinson today represented New Zealand at the Forum on Food Regulation in Melbourne to consider the Forum’s response to the Independent Review of Food Labelling Law and Policy. “I welcome the Forum’s response, which follows considerable work over the past year to consider how the report’s recommendations should be addressed,” Ms Wilkinson says. ...

NZ Government attends Bali Democracy Forum

Admin — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 01:02:00 +0000

Immigration Minister Jonathan Coleman represented New Zealand at the fourth Bali Democracy Forum this week. The two-day Forum in Nusa Dua, Bali, was an opportunity for countries to share their experiences and best practices on democracy with a view to encouraging wider cooperation on strengthening democratic institutions in Asia and the Pacific. Established by Indonesia in 2008, The Bali Democracy Forum brings together Heads of State and Foreign Ministers from countries across Asia, the Middle East and the Pacific. ...

Minister welcomes latest round of lottery community funding

Beehive — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 03:33:00 +0000

Internal Affairs Minister Nathan Guy has welcomed $6,675,734 in new funding for 40 projects around the country through the Lottery Communities Facilities Fund Committee. “This funding will be a real boost for many local communities. These projects will help build and improve new facilities for everyone to benefit from.” Some of the major highlights include: ...

Norwegian Prime Minister to visit New Zealand

Beehive — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:04:00 +0000

Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg will arrive on Sunday for a six-day visit to New Zealand and Antarctica, Prime Minister John Key announced today. Prime Minister Stoltenberg is visiting Antarctica as a guest of the US Antarctic Programme for the centenary celebrations of the first expedition to reach the South Pole, which was led by Norwegian Roald Amundsen. “I am pleased to welcome Jens Stoltenberg to New Zealand. Though geographically distant, Norway and New Zealand are similar-sized countries with much in common,” says Mr Key. ...

Minister welcomes new Mentoring for Diversity Programme

Admin — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 22:27:00 +0000

The Minister of Women’s Affairs, Hekia Parata, congratulates the Institute of Directors on the launch of its inaugural Mentoring for Diversity programme, aimed at increasing the number of women on NZX-listed and large company boards. “I applaud the Institute of Directors (IoD) for establishing this programme,'' says Ms Parata. "In a number of cases women often have the skills but are just not sure how to get into governance roles. This programme will really help them.” ...

National Statement to COP 17: DURBAN

Admin — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 21:25:00 +0000

Madam President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. I would like to acknowledge and thank our gracious hosts South Africa and assure the Parties present that New Zealand is, as always, committed to playing a constructive role in these negotiations. Having accepted a responsibility target under the Kyoto Protocol CP1 we are on track to meet our commitments and no matter what the outcome here in Durban New Zealand's mitigation efforts will continue post-2012. ...

Strong progress in kaupapa Maori education

Beehive — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 05:55:00 +0000

A glowing report on the work of Te Wananga Takiura o nga Kura Kaupapa Maori o Aotearoa Inc reflects credit on that institution, on Tawhirimatea and Kaa Williams and their staff and students, and also on the tenacity and passion of the leaders of the whole kaupapa Maori education movement, says Associate Minister of Education Dr Pita Sharples. ...

UK Air Passenger Duty hike disappointing - PM

Beehive — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 22:56:00 +0000

Prime Minister John Key today expressed his disappointment at the British Government’s announcement overnight of an increase in passenger duty for air travellers to New Zealand. The British Government has announced that the UK Air Passenger Duty (APD) will increase next April from 85 pounds sterling to 92 pounds sterling per passenger coming to New Zealand. “The APD places a significant burden on New Zealand businesses, on families who travel, and on our tourism industry,” said Mr Key. ...

NZ welcomes Indonesian move on nuclear test ban

Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 20:18:00 +0000

New Zealand warmly welcomes Indonesia’s ratification of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), Disarmament Minister Georgina te Heuheu said today. “New Zealand is a longstanding supporter of the CTBT, and we congratulate Indonesia for its leadership on this important global issue.” First opened for signature in 1996, the CTBT will put into place a binding and verifiable ban on all nuclear test explosions worldwide once it enters into force. ...

Gallantry awards richly deserved by NZ soldiers

Admin — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:30:00 +0000

Gallantry awards being presented today highlight the courage and professionalism of New Zealand forces serving in Afghanistan, Defence Minister Wayne Mapp said today. “The three New Zealand soldiers have shown the highest level of bravery in the face of danger,” said Dr Mapp. The three men were in a vehicle patrol attacked by insurgents in Afghanistan in August 2010. Lieutenant Tim O’Donnell was killed in the attack. ...

First of new NH90 helicopters arrive for RNZAF

Admin — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 20:20:00 +0000

Two new NH90 helicopters will arrive at Ohakea at 9.30am, after being airlifted from France on board an Antonov AN 124 transport aircraft, Defence Minister Wayne Mapp said today. “These helicopters will provide a quantum leap in capability for the RNZAF,” said Dr Mapp. “The NH90s will give the NZDF better capability to conduct military, counter-terrorism, disaster relief, search and rescue, and other operations. “The NH90s have over three times the power of the current Iroquois and can carry more than twice the payload further and faster. ...

Australia and New Zealand advance linking of their emissions trading schemes

Beehive — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:47:00 +0000

Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet, and New Zealand Minister for International Climate Change Negotiations, Tim Groser, have welcomed progress on plans to link Australia’s and New Zealand’s emissions trading schemes. The Ministers agreed that strengthening international carbon markets - including through linking the two emissions trading schemes - would unlock further efficiencies, and contribute to reducing pollution cost-effectively around the globe. ...

Spending restraint needed for foreseeable future

Admin — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 21:35:00 +0000

Ongoing spending discipline and higher than expected corporate tax revenue have helped keep the Government's finances on track at a time of heightened global uncertainty, Finance Minister Bill English says. Government spending, tax revenue and net debt were all slightly lower than expected in the Crown accounts for the four months to 31 October issued today, contributing to a operating deficit before gains and losses of $3.36 billion. The variances - due to timing issues - are expected to reduce in coming months. ...

Te Wai Pounamu Maori Leadership Wanaka for Cancer 2011

Beehive — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 07:16:00 +0000

I am delighted to be in the company of the three wise women of the South – our kuia from Oraka Aparima, Jane Davis; Elizabeth Cunningham, the interim Chair of this inaugural wanaka, and representative of Manawhenua ki Waitaha; and Lisa Tumahai – the funding portfolio holder for Maori – deputy chair of Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu and Canterbury DHB. When we are talking about Maori leadership within Te Waipounamu, these three wahine represent between them, the range of responsibilities and relationships that are so critical to the health and wellbeing of our whanau. ...

Crown entity scoops Business Excellence Award

Beehive — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 02:55:00 +0000

Associate Commerce Minister Craig Foss today congratulated International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) on winning a Business Achievement Award from the New Zealand Business Excellence Foundation. “I am pleased that this Crown entity has been recognised as a top performer. It stands out – not just in its field, but right across the public and private sectors. The state sector should be aiming for top marks for its work, and this shows just what can be achieved,” said Mr Foss. ...

Tonga audit finds no evidence of fraud

Beehive — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 02:54:00 +0000

An independent audit into the financial management of the Constitutional and Electoral Reform programme in Tonga has found no evidence of fraud, Foreign Minister Murray McCully announced today. Last month it was alleged that NZ$330,000 provided by New Zealand and Australia to the Tongan Government to support their historic transition to a more democratic system of government had been misused. ...

NZ public sector tops world integrity list

Beehive — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 04:29:00 +0000

State Services Minister Tony Ryall says New Zealanders will be proud their public sector continues to lead the world in integrity. Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index for 2011 was released today and New Zealand is again ranked in first place. “New Zealand’s consistent reputation for integrity in the public sector has been reinforced by this ranking. The lack of corruption makes us a desirable place to do business internationally and meets New Zealander’s expectations of fairness. ...

Minister saddened at loss of DOC ranger

Beehive — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 02:43:00 +0000

Minister of Conservation Kate Wilkinson says she is deeply saddened by the tragic death of Department of Conservation ranger William MacRae in a helicopter crash overnight. “My thoughts and condolences are with his partner, family and colleagues in the Kaitaia office and Northland conservancy. “William died trying to help others. He was an experienced, well-known and well-liked DOC staffer and he will be greatly missed in the community. “I also wish to offer my deepest condolences to the family of the pilot who died in the crash.” ...

Turia cautions against complacency

Beehive — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 21:07:00 +0000

Associate Minister of Health, Hon Tariana Turia, has cautioned against complacency as New Zealand marks World AIDS Day (today 1 December). “I want to acknowledge the commitment of a passionate and professional NGO and DHB workforce who have worked hard to improve service coverage for people living with HIV/AIDS” said Mrs Turia. “The theme for World AIDS Day 2011 is ‘Getting to Zero’ – zero new HIV infections; zero discrimination and zero AIDS related deaths’. ...

Groser to attend UN climate change talks

Beehive — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 02:50:00 +0000

Minister Responsible for International Climate Change Negotiations Tim Groser will travel to Durban, South Africa, from 1-11 December to attend the annual ministerial conference of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. “New Zealand will be looking for progress towards a comprehensive global agreement with binding emission-reduction commitments. These commitments need to include all developed countries as well as advanced and major-emitting developing countries. ...

Govt to support further testing at Moanataiari

Beehive — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 02:45:00 +0000

The Government will provide $237,500 towards further soil testing in the Thames suburb of Moanataiari, Environment Minister Nick Smith announced today. Moanataiari is built on land reclaimed from the Firth of Thames. The area was filled with mine tailings, mine waste, and clean fill subdivided in the 1960s and houses built in the 1970s. Last week Moanataiari residents were advised that soil testing of roadside verges had identified elevated levels of arsenic. There are 212 houses, a school and a childcare facility in the suburb. ...

NZ condemns attack on British Embassy in Iran

Beehive — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 02:43:00 +0000

Foreign Minister Murray McCully has expressed serious concern over the storming of the two British Embassy compounds in Tehran yesterday. “The storming of the British Embassy in Iran was totally unacceptable” Mr McCully said. “We join other Governments and the United Nations Security Council in condemning the attacks and calling on the Iranian Government to take action against those responsible. ...

Fund continues to support vital community services

Admin — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 21:23:00 +0000

Over $4.5 million of funding has been provided to 121 community organisations in the eighth round of the Community Response Fund. “This funding recognises the important role local social services play in the health and well being of their communities,” says Ms Bennett. The Community Response Fund was established in 2009 and extended until mid-2012 to help community groups struggling with extra demand as a result of the recession. The Fund has now provided $66.8 million to 1434 organisations. ...

Boost in national preventive health targets

Admin — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:07:00 +0000

The latest quarterly results for the six National Health Targets have been published. Health Minister Tony Ryall says there is good improvement in the preventive health targets for quarter one 2011/12 – particularly with better help for smokers to quit. "In this three month period, around 30,230 hospital patients who smoke received brief help and advice to quit – an internationally recognised health prevention measure. That's a national average increase of nearly four per cent (up from 85 per cent last quarter). ...