Category: New Zealand Government

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Minister welcomes Whakatohea report

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Andrew Little has welcomed the Waitangi Tribunal’s report on the Whakatōhea mandate.
“The Tribunal acknowledged that the package on the table is a good package but there are some concerns about the process.
“I’ve just received the report this afternoon and will have a close study of the full report and the recommendations.
 “We take seriously what the Tribunal says as this is about ensuring that there is integrity to the settlement negotiations. The recommendation that Whakatōhea has a say on next steps aligns well with a key Treaty settlement principle that the members of the iwi themselves must show support for a settlement before it can be concluded.
“I’d like to acknowledge the Pre-Settlement Claims Trust and all the hard work they have done to date over a six year mandating period and the earlier efforts of Whakatōhea to settle in the mid 1990s. I’d also like to acknowledge the whānau and hapū members who’ve given evidence to the Tribunal in this process.”
“The Treaty of Waitangi settlement process is about acknowledging the injustices of the past, to fulfil the aspirations of Māori and all New Zealanders for the future. My commitment is to reach a fair and durable settlement with Whakatōhea,” says Andrew Little.
This content has been corrected at 7.25pm, 17 April 2018

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Minister welcomes Waitangi Tribunal report

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Andrew Little has welcomed the Waitangi Tribunal’s report on the Whakatōhea mandate.
“The Tribunal acknowledged that the package on the table is a good package but there are concerns about the process.
“I’ve just received the report this afternoon and will have a close study of the full report and the recommendations.
“We take seriously what the Tribunal says as this is about ensuring that there is integrity to the settlement negotiations.
“We will work with Whakatōhea, with the pre-settlement trust and with the claimants to make sure that we meet the exacting standards set by the Tribunal.
“I think there’s good will amongst the parties to get a process on track so we can restore faith. Whakatōhea have trodden a somewhat troubled past to get here.
“The Treaty of Waitangi settlement process is about acknowledging the injustices of the past, to fulfil the aspirations of Māori and all New Zealanders for the future,” says Andrew Little.
 

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Interim Climate Change Committee announced

17 April 2018

  MEDIA STATEMENT

Interim Climate Change Committee Announced
The Minister for Climate Change today announced the membership of the Interim Climate Change Committee, which will begin work on how New Zealand transitions to a net zero emissions economy by 2050.
“We need work to start now on how things like agriculture might enter into the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZETS), and we need planning now for the transition to 100 percent renewable electricity generation by 2035,” says James Shaw.
“The Interim Climate Change Committee will begin this important work until we have set up the independent Climate Change Commission under the Zero Carbon Act in May next year.
“The Interim Committee will consult with stakeholders and hand over its work and analysis to the Climate Change Commission,” Mr Shaw said.
Committee members have been chosen because of their expertise across key areas related to climate change: agriculture, agribusiness, climate change science and policy, resource economics and impacts, Te Tiriti o Waitangi, te reo me ona tikanga Māori and Māori interests, international competitiveness, and energy production and supply.
Dr David Prentice, the Interim Committee Chair, was most recently the CEO and Managing Director of infrastructure firm Opus International Consultants.
He led his company through the Global Financial Crisis and has a sound understanding of economics and international markets.
He is joined by Deputy Chair, Lisa Tumahai, who has significant governance experience and is Kaiwhakahaere of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. She is a person of significant mana and standing in the Māori community.
The other committee members are:
Dr Harry Clark, a New Zealand expert on agricultural greenhouse gas research
Dr Keith Turner, former CEO of Meridian and professional director
Dr Jan Wright, former Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment
Dr Suzi Kerr, an internationally renowned expert in the economics of climate change policy and emissions trading.
“If we want to help lead the world towards meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement, we must create a moral mandate underpinned by decisive action at home to reduce our own emissions.
“Setting up the Interim Climate Change Committee is a great step in that direction,” says James Shaw.  

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Minister in Manawatu Wanganui region to discuss future of New Zealand’s civil defence

Minister of Civil Defence Kris Faafoi says tomorrow’s visit to Palmerston North and the Manawatu Wanganui region is an opportunity to hear how the region deals with the wide range of hazards and emergencies it faces.
Mr Faafoi is meeting with Manawatu-Wanganui Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group, iwi, regional mayors, council chairs and senior CDEM officials to learn about how the region currently deals with emergencies, and to seek feedback on how to improve New Zealand’s Civil Defence system.
“The Horizons region has experienced a large number of emergencies in recent years, and faces hazards ranging from floods and storms to earthquakes, tsunami and volcanic activity. I’m really eager to tap into local experience and knowledge as I gather feedback about how we can improve our system to protect New Zealanders from natural disasters and other emergencies.”
In January Mr Faafoi released a report into how New Zealand responds to natural disasters and emergencies, the Ministerial Review – ‘Better Responses to Natural Disasters and other Emergencies in New Zealand’. A technical advisory group (TAG) was formed to provide advice on the most appropriate operational and legislative mechanisms to support effective responses to natural disasters and other emergencies.
Mr Faafoi says he hopes to be in a position to confirm the Government response to the TAG recommendations later this year. “The current system stands up well when we need it, and has done so throughout pressures and challenges in recent years. But it is clear more must be done, particularly given the increasing events we have experienced.”
Mr Faafoi says as well as listening to input from Manawatu Wanganui CDEM Group, he is there to acknowledge the commendable efforts and ongoing dedication of the region in preparing for, and responding and recovering to a number of challenging emergencies.
“These emergencies have prompted the Government to ask how such efforts can be better supported, and I am interested to hear their thoughts on the recommendations of the Ministerial review into disaster and emergency responses.”
The full TAG report and submissions can be found here.

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Retail power price review panel named

The Energy and Resources Minister Megan Woods has today released the details of who will sit on an expert advisory panel which is tasked with leading a review into the price of electricity in New Zealand.
“The eight-person expert advisory panel – which will be chaired by Miriam Dean QC – will play a key role into assessing whether the electricity market is delivering power at the fair and equitable price,” said Megan Woods.
“Every member of the panel brings a wealth of expertise and experience to the table and a range of skills that complement each other and will be a part of a review that will be of special interest to the New Zealand public.
“The panel’s primary task is to provide peer and technical advice for the review which will also look at whether the electricity market and its governance arrangements are appropriate for the rapid changes in technology and innovation taking place in the sector.”
Megan Woods last month released the terms of reference for the review which will be supported by a secretariat provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and external consultants.
The first meeting of the expert advisory panel is due to be held later this month and the final report is expected to be delivered to the Minister early next year.

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: New manufacturing report shows move to added value

Key parts of manufacturing are moving beyond commodities into value-added products, a new report released today by Economic Development Minister David Parker shows.
The 150 page report, Beyond Commodities: Manufacturing into the Future, is the most comprehensive on New Zealand manufacturing to be published in a decade.
 It was launched at the Manufacturer’s Forum hosted by EMA, in association with the Manufacturer’s Network and Callaghan Innovation.
 “This report shows the huge diversity of manufacturing in New Zealand, from core household goods like cleaning products, to building products, furniture and steel,” Mr Parker says.
The report also identifies a number of challenges for manufacturers, including difficulty finding skilled tradespeople and a lack of scale relative to international competitors.
 “The continued lack of productivity growth remains troubling and limits opportunities for development,” Mr Parker says.
 “Manufacturing is crucial to boosting jobs and growing our exports, particularly where New Zealand enjoys a comparative advantage. The sector’s potential is clear and we need to devote more of the country’s resource it.”
 “The Government’s Tax Working Group and reforms we are making to the Reserve Bank Act are important steps on the path to a more productive economy.”
A key finding in the report is the degree to which production and export of high-value products is starting to gain real traction. Medical equipment, pharmaceuticals and agritech machinery and systems collectively generate $1 billion of exports. Infant formula and innovative foods such as nutraceuticals are generating double digit growth.
The report, part of the Sectors Reports Series, confirms that manufacturing will continue to play a major role in the economy, particularly in the regions.
Manufacturing provides 221,000 jobs, generates $36 billion in exports, and spends $670 million on research and development.  
“Manufacturing has borne the brunt of changing global dynamics and these changes have resulted in increased competition for Kiwi firms. 
“However, the globalised economy has also increased opportunities for local firms to target valuable niches,” Mr Parker says. 
“Value-added products can offer higher returns and efficiencies for New Zealand businesses and allow for more productive land use with a lower impact on the environment.” 
The report will help provide the information government and industry needs to adapt to emerging domestic and global opportunities.
The report is available at: www.mbie.govt.nz/manufacturing

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award helping young offenders gain new skills

Corrections Minister Kelvin Davis has congratulated 11 young offenders for achieving The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award – including the first prisoner in New Zealand to ever achieve the Gold Award.
At the ceremony in Christchurch Men’s Prison Youth Unit today, Mr Davis said completing the Award was a big achievement for the young men.  
“The Award has helped them step out of their comfort zones and taught them new skills, including leadership, goal-setting and decision-making. These skills and their proven motivation to succeed will help them make the right choices once they are released back into the community.
“A lot of young people end up in prison because they haven’t had the best role models, environment or opportunities growing up. Helping them gain the skills they need to get into further training, education or work reduces their likelihood of re-offending which means our communities are safer.
“These young offenders have also raised $400 for Te Whare Hauora (formerly Otautahi Women’s Refuge) by running a sponsored marathon inside the prison. This was a great way for them to complete the physical recreation requirement for the Award while also give something back to the local community.”
In addition to physical recreation, participants also complete volunteering, skills development and adventure activities, allowing them to reach bronze, silver or gold levels of the Award.
One young man received a Gold Award at the ceremony, making him the first prisoner in New Zealand to achieve The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award at this level while in prison. 
Two young men were awarded Gold Adventurous Journey Sectional Certificates for part completion of the Gold Award, while two others received Silver Awards and six received the Bronze Award.
“Prison presents some unique challenges for completing some of the activities, such as camping out overnight, but the staff do a great job making sure the young people can carry out the activities safely and securely,” Mr Davis said.
Corrections has worked with The Duke of Edinburgh’s Hillary Award to run the programme for young offenders at Christchurch Men’s Prison, Hawke’s Bay Regional Prison and Auckland Region Women’s Corrections Facility since 2016. 

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Government welcomes IMF’s positive economic assessment

Minister of Finance Grant Robertson has welcomed the IMF’s Concluding Statement, released following its annual visit, which provides an independent assessment of the strength of the New Zealand economy.
“The IMF said we have a favourable outlook with annual economic activity expected to remain strong at around 3% growth, and that financial vulnerabilities have stabilised,” Grant Robertson says.
“The IMF was positive about the Government’s policy agenda, with fiscal, monetary and prudential policy settings considered to be broadly appropriate.
“They expect a soft landing for the housing market and noted that KiwiBuild should result in a gradual increase in residential investment growth.
“The IMF welcomed New Zealand’s continued support of open trade and our multi-lateral trade framework saying that, as one of the initial signatories of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), New Zealand will benefit from increased market access and new growth opportunities.
“On the Reserve Bank Act Review currently underway, IMF staff welcomed the outcome of Phase One and supported the introduction of the employment mandate for the central bank.
“The Coalition Government priorities are to make the investments in our critical public services while managing the country’s finances carefully and responsibly.
“This IMF Statement follows recent positive reviews from the major credit rating agencies of our Government’s economic plan and different priorities,” Grant Robertson says.
Note to Editors:
The Minister of Finance met with the IMF mission team on 11 April as part of its annual review of the New Zealand economy. The IMF is expected to release its full report later this year.

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Applications open for tourism infrastructure funding

Applications are open for round two of the Tourism Infrastructure Fund, Tourism Minister Kelvin Davis announced today.The Tourism Infrastructure Fund provides up to $25 million per year to co-fund, with councils, the development of visitor-related public infrastructure such as toilets, carparks, freedom camping facilities and sewerage and water works.
“The fund supports communities facing pressure from tourism growth and in need of assistance – areas with high visitor numbers but small ratepayer bases, for example,” Mr Davis says.
“This second round will see a continued focus on communities in immediate need, where local facilities are already under strain because of visitor demand.
“I would also like to see more proposals that use innovative technological solutions to reduce or cover the cost of infrastructure up-keep, which helps take the burden off ratepayers. Examples could include app-based user charges, with revenue used for maintenance, or ‘smart’ solar-powered rubbish compactors that alert the rubbish collection company when the compactors are full.”
Applications for round two of the Tourism Infrastructure Fund close on Monday 14 May 2018.
Mr Davis also indicated he is considering changes to the criteria of the fund for future rounds. 
“Following feedback I received from mayors at a recent meeting on freedom camping, I will also be reviewing the fund’s criteria so that they better meet the needs of councils. Some mayors considered the funds’ criteria too restrictive, for example when priority is given to councils which are at their lending limit. There are a range of things we can look at but any changes may have to go through Cabinet so will likely be implemented from round three or four.”
The second round of the Tourism Infrastructure Fund totals $10.7 million. In December 2017, $14.2 million was awarded to various local councils for 30 visitor-related infrastructure projects and four feasibility studies in the first round of the fund.  
For more information for round two of the Tourism Infrastructure Fund visit:
http://www.mbie.govt.nz/info-services/sectors-industries/tourism/tourism-infrastructure-fund

Source: New Zealand Government

Headline: Australian Competition and Consumer Commission cross appointment to the New Zealand Commerce Commission

New Zealand Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Kris Faafoi and Australian Treasurer Scott Morrison have welcomed the cross-appointment of Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) Commissioner Roger Featherston to the New Zealand Commerce Commission (NZCC).
“I am very pleased to appoint Roger Featherston as an associate member of the NZCC under the cross-appointment arrangement with the ACCC. I have no doubt Mr Featherston will add value to the NZCC’s work, with his background in trade practices, competition and consumer law practice and policy,” Mr Faafoi says.
“Mr Featherston is a leading expert in this area and his cross-appointment will strengthen Trans-Tasman cooperation on competition and consumer issues,” Mr Morrison said.
“Over the years, the cross-appointment arrangement between the ACCC and the NZCC has helped ensure consistency of approach to merger cases and competition issues affecting markets in both countries,” Mr Morrison added.
Roger Featherston will be the second of the ACCC’s two cross-appointees to the NZCC, with the other being Sarah Court. The Chair and Deputy Chair of the NZCC, Dr Mark Berry and Sue Begg, are currently cross-appointed as associate members of the ACCC.
 

 

 

 

Background  
The New Zealand Commerce Commission is New Zealand’s independent competition authority and regulatory agency. The Commission is responsible for enforcing laws relating to competition, fair trading, and consumer credit contracts, and it has regulatory responsibilities in the electricity lines, gas pipelines, telecommunications, dairy and airport sectors.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is an independent statutory authority formed in 1995 to enforce the Australian Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and a range of additional legislation, promoting competition, fair trading and regulating national infrastructure for the benefit of all Australians. 
Roger Featherston’s career has concentrated on trade practices/competition law and consumer law practice and policy. It spans a beginning in the Attorney-General’s Department to a partnership in an Australian law firm, where he established one of Australia’s leading competition law and regulatory practices, to consultancy work and being a Commissioner of the ACCC. He has acted for commercial and government clients in a wide range of sectors including the airports, airlines, electricity and telecommunications sectors, on issues which include competition law litigation and enforcement, informal merger clearances and access and pricing issues. Mr Featherston was a special counsel for the ACCC from 2012 to 2014, focusing on enforcement projects in respect of supermarkets and petrol retailing. Since June 2014, he has been a Commissioner on the ACCC. He is a member of the ACCC’s Enforcement Committee and Communications Committee, and chairs the Mergers Review Committee and Adjudication Committee.