Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

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ChildFund – Just Hours From NZ – Women Still Fight for Basic Rights

Source: ChildFund New Zealand

Too many women in our shared home of the Pacific still struggle to access clean water for their families.
“It’s the 21st century, and yet only hours away from New Zealand, women have to watch their children get sick, or worse, from contaminated water. They have to prioritise finding clean water instead of focusing on earning an income or building a future,” says CEO of ChildFund New Zealand Josie Pagani.
“Clean water has a domino effect. Get that right, and development across the whole Pacific will improve.”
Nearby Pacific nations continue to face barriers to health, including access to clean water. Women and their children often walk for hours to collect and boil unsafe water, a time-consuming and exhausting task.
“This is a practical problem that can be solved if we just come together as donors, businesses and aid charities to make it happen.
“At ChildFund we believe New Zealand could make sure every child in the Pacific has access to clean water by 2036, if we stick to this clear target and work together.”
ChildFund New Zealand has partnered with Pacific communities for many years, as well as supporting women and children in places like Ukraine and Gaza, Sri Lanka and Africa. As part of a global ChildFund alliance, it reaches over 36 million people in 70 countries.
Access to clean water is a global issue:
  • 1 in 4 people worldwide still lack access to safe drinking water. ( WHO)
  • Women and girls collect water in about 7 out of 10 households without water on the premises. ( WHO)
  • Globally, women and girls spend 250 million hours per day collecting water. ( UN Water)
  •  Over 1 billion women globally lack access to safely managed drinking water services. ( UN) 
“Thanks to our supporters, we provided access to clean drinking water for 4,309 people across the world last year. What makes a real difference is that when donations go to water projects, every dollar is matched by five dollars from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” says Josie Pagani.
Solar-powered water purification units, costing only $250 each, plus desalination tanks, and water tanks have been introduced in remote Pacific communities in the outer islands across the Pacific.
“Gender equality is not an abstract thing. It’s about everyday rights: clean water, good health, economic security for women and their children.
“When communities have the basics sorted, like clean water, women are free to realise their potential, earn a living. All of which helps to lift their communities out of poverty.”
“Clean water changes everything. So on this International Women’s Day, let’s roll out more water projects to women and children across our own region,” says Josie Pagani.
For more information about ChildFund New Zealand’s work in the Pacific and how women and communities are leading their own change, visit childfund.org.nz.
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Women shaping the future of Aotearoa recognised in inaugural Women of Impact in Property list

Source: Property Council of New Zealand

Thirty wāhine whose leadership is shaping the future of New Zealand’s built environment have been recognised in the inaugural Women of Impact in Property list, unveiled by Property Council New Zealand this International Women’s Day.

Spanning developers, designers, engineers, strategists, policy leaders and project specialists, the list – selected from over 90 nominees – celebrates the breadth of talent driving progress across the property ecosystem.

Importantly, Women of Impact in Property is not a competition. Every honouree is recognised equally for the influence and impact they have delivered across the sector.

Property Council Chief Executive Leonie Freeman says the programme shines a light on the people whose leadership is helping shape stronger, more inclusive communities.

“Our cities are built by people, and behind every great place are women creating change: leading teams, mentoring others, challenging thinking and delivering outcomes that benefit us all.”

“Women of Impact is about visibility, recognition and inspiration. We want the sector – and the public – to see what leadership looks like in all its forms.”

The initiative reflects Property Council’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion and will become an annual International Women’s Day tradition.

Women of Impact in Property is proudly supported by MinterEllisonRuddWatts.

A sector-wide celebration

Honourees were selected from nominations received across Aotearoa and represent a diverse range of disciplines, regions and career stages.

From large-scale urban development to community-led initiatives, governance leadership to technical excellence, each woman has demonstrated meaningful influence within the industry over the past 12 months.

Why it matters

Property is one of New Zealand’s largest industries, shaping the places where people live, work, play and connect. Recognising the contribution of women across the sector is essential to building a more inclusive, innovative and future-focused industry.

What’s next

The honourees will be celebrated at a dedicated event hosted by programme partner MinterEllisonRuddWatts in May.

NOTES

  • Women of Impact in Property is run by Property Council New Zealand.
  • The programme recognises influence, leadership, inspiration and commitment to advancing positive outcomes in the built environment.
  • The list is non-ranked, celebrating impact rather than competition.

About Women of Impact in Property

The Women of Impact in Property list celebrates the wāhine shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand’s built environment. Recognising leaders from across the property ecosystem – from architects and engineers to developers, investors and advisors – the initiative shines a light on the women creating meaningful impact in our industry and communities. The list is intentionally non-ranked, celebrating influence, leadership and contribution rather than competition, and highlighting the people helping build a more inclusive and dynamic property sector.

Honourees 2026

Note: This list is non-ranked and is ordered alphabetically.

Abi Richards

Project Manager, Antarctica New Zealand

Abi Richards leads complex, high-stakes infrastructure projects with calm authority, precision and deep care for the people involved. In the past year, she has progressed Antarctica New Zealand’s Wind Farm programme and Scott Base Redevelopment, providing on-ice leadership and cross-agency coordination to support globally significant climate and science research. Her briefings during the Governor-General’s official visit underscored the redevelopment’s strategic importance and international collaboration. Abi’s leadership is defined by empathy, inclusion and decisive action — whether aligning stakeholders, navigating remote logistics or mentoring peers. Operating at pace without compromising safety or integrity, she is shaping resilient infrastructure that enables communities, patients and scientists to thrive.

Alexandra Isherwood

Partner, Tavendale and Partners

Over the past year, Alexandra (Alex) Isherwood has played a pivotal role in advancing Nelson’s post-disaster recovery through strategic property development leadership. As legal advisor on four of the region’s five most significant developments – including The Meadows, Berryfields, Maitahi Village and a 320-lot residential project in Māpua – she has helped unlock critical housing supply and economic investment. Notably, she led the Fast-track Approvals process for two landmark projects, securing rare national approvals and enabling an estimated $450 million injection into the regional economy. Combining legal excellence with community stewardship, she is shaping resilient, future-focused neighbourhoods across Te Tauihu.

Ana Moriarty

Senior Investment Manager, Kiwi Property Group

Operating at the heart of Kiwi Property’s investment strategy, Ana Moriarty has played a critical role in delivering complex transactions that are strengthening investor partnerships and positioning the business for its next phase of growth. Over the past year, she led several strategically significant initiatives, including the equity investment in Mackersy, the sale of Plaza Shopping Centre, and the formation of the Mackersy Large Format Retail Fund. Her ability to navigate technical complexity, align diverse stakeholders and execute with clarity has delivered strong commercial outcomes. Through disciplined leadership and a collaborative approach, she is helping shape the future of New Zealand’s property sector.

Anna Kennedy

Director Valuation Services, FordBaker Valuation

Anna Kennedy is rapidly establishing herself as one of Ōtautahi Christchurch’s most trusted property valuation professionals. As Director of Valuation Services at FordBaker Valuation, she advises on major property portfolios, earning a reputation for technical excellence, sound judgement and professionalism well beyond her years. Alongside her professional work, Anna is strengthening the sector’s future through leadership and connection. In 2023 she co-founded the Wāhine in Property Collective, which in 2025 hosted ten sold-out events supporting women across the industry. Through both her professional expertise and community leadership, Anna is helping build a more connected and inclusive property sector.

Bernie Pitt

Quantity Surveyor, Hampton Jones Property Consultancy

Bernie Pitt has strengthened her influence in the property and construction sector through exceptional project delivery and committed industry leadership. Over the past year, she successfully led the TSB Bank flagship branch and office fit-out, navigating accelerated design, procurement pressures and tight deadlines to deliver on time and under budget – earning outstanding client feedback. As Chair of the NZIQS Wellington Committee, she delivered 28 industry events, advanced succession planning and expanded opportunities for emerging professionals. Balancing consultancy leadership, mentoring and further tertiary study focused on women’s representation in construction, Bernie is actively shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for the profession.

Chagalle Ellis

Partner, Real Estate, PwC

Chagalle Ellis is redefining what modern leadership in commercial property looks like — blending technical excellence with deeply human leadership. In 2025, she has continued to asset manage a significant $300m commercial portfolio for a charitable trust, shaping long-term strategy and driving sustained value creation. As a Partner in PwC’s Real Estate team, she delivers across advisory, structured transactions and valuation, translating complexity into clear, confident decisions. Just as importantly, she champions equity and inclusion, helping build a senior team where female leadership is the norm. Her influence strengthens portfolios, teams and the wider property sector alike.

Claire McLellan

Director, Quality and Risk Management, CBRE

Few professionals influence a sector as quietly and profoundly as Claire McLellan. In 2025, following her promotion to Director of Quality & Risk Management for CBRE’s VAS New Zealand, she has led a nationwide uplift in valuation standards, guiding more than 170 valuers through complex, high-risk decisions with clarity and integrity. She shapes national practice guidelines, champions ethical and AI-informed innovation, and strengthens capability across the business. Beyond CBRE, as NZIV President and Chairperson, she is steering the profession through structural change and raising its public profile. Through steady, principled leadership, Claire is elevating valuation practice across Aotearoa.

Davina Henderson

National Director – Strategic Business Development, Bayleys Real Estate

Davina Henderson has led one of the largest and most complex property programmes undertaken in Aotearoa in recent years. As a key architect of Bayleys’ appointment as master agent to Kāinga Ora, she helped secure and operationalise a nationwide divestment mandate covering at least 1,000 properties annually across multiple asset classes. Over the past year, she has overseen the creation of a bespoke, end-to-end delivery model ensuring governance rigour, transparency and consistent execution at scale. Alongside this national impact, Davina mentors emerging leaders and champions women in commercial real estate, strengthening capability across the sector.

Elisapeta Heta

Principal & Kaihautū Whaihanga – Māori Design Leader, Jasmax

Elisapeta Heta is reshaping architectural practice in Aotearoa and beyond by embedding Indigenous knowledge at the heart of design. As Principal and Kaihautū Whaihanga at Jasmax, she leads Waka Māia, advancing authentic co-design with Māori and Pasifika communities. Her influence spans landmark projects including the City Rail Link and Wellington’s Fale Malae, ensuring Mana Whenua narratives are integral to civic spaces. In 2025, her global impact expanded as inaugural Co-Director of the International Union of Architects’ Indigenous Peoples Work Programme — a historic first. Through cultural leadership, advocacy and mentorship, Elisapeta is redefining how architecture honours people, place and future generations.

Jane Holland

Partner, Bell Gully

Industry legend Jane Holland continues to shape New Zealand’s commercial property landscape through her leadership on complex, high-value developments. Over the past year, she has advised on a major telecommunications headquarters at Wynyard Quarter – a flagship 6-star Green Star project – and supported Vital Healthcare on significant hospital redevelopments nationwide. Beyond her legal practice, Jane chairs the Property Council’s Property Conference Committee, helping steer industry dialogue and sector capability. A trusted advisor to leading developers, owners and retailers, she also contributes as a thought leader, recently peer reviewing key industry lease documents and sharing insight across the profession.

Jane Kelly

Director / Architect, TEAM Architects

Jane Kelly’s leadership in 2025 reflects the power of architecture grounded in care, stewardship and collaboration. As Project Architect for the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Sacred Heart restoration, she guided a nationally significant heritage project to award-winning success, balancing cultural integrity with future relevance. Her aged care work, including Woburn Masonic Care, champions dignity and wellbeing through thoughtful design. Beyond projects, Jane strengthens the profession through governance leadership, mentoring and advancing diversity within TEAM Architects nationally. Generous with her expertise and steadfast in her advocacy, she is shaping enduring places, and a more inclusive future for architecture in Aotearoa.

Jenna Adamson

CEO / Director, Private Family Office / Southern Infrastructure

Jenna Adamson is advancing a new model of infrastructure and property leadership; one grounded in partnership, stewardship and long-term community value. As CEO of Rod Drury’s Family Office, she oversees property strategy and asset management across a diversified portfolio focused on strengthening enduring community assets. As Director of Southern Infrastructure, she is helping progress critical projects, including the Queenstown Cable Car and Southern Lakes Hospital, mobilising capital and expertise to de-risk delivery in fast-growing regions. Combining governance rigour with innovative thinking, Jenna is enabling infrastructure that expands access, resilience and opportunity for communities across Aotearoa.

Jennifer Andrews

Asset Manager – Retail Portfolio, Oyster Property 

Jennifer Andrews is strengthening the future of retail property through consistent investment in people and capability. Over the past year, she has contributed significantly to sector education as a presenter for the Property Council’s Retail Property Fundamentals programme, equipping emerging professionals with practical insight into investment, valuation and leasing. She mentors across multiple platforms, including the University of Auckland’s He Ira Wāhine programme, supporting women entering the industry. Alongside this, she leads a high-performing national team at Oyster Property, delivering strong financial outcomes while fostering inclusive leadership. Jennifer’s impact is defined by expertise shared generously and a clear commitment to building tomorrow’s talent.

Jenny Zhang

Shop Drawing Manager, Summerset Group 

Jenny Zhang is delivering precision and performance at the highest level of large-scale residential development. As Structural Coordinator and Shop Drawing Manager for Summerset’s $500M St Johns and Half Moon Bay projects, she has reviewed more than 3,000 shop drawings and managed over 800 RFIs — identifying buildability and coordination risks before they reach site. Her meticulous oversight of complex high-rise structures has reduced rework, improved contractor performance and safeguarded delivery timelines. Beyond project execution, Jenny mentors emerging professionals and leads diversity initiatives through NZCBIA, championing greater female participation across property and construction. Her impact is technical, cultural and enduring.

Jo Hatchman

Director – Quantity Surveyor, Hatch Consulting

Jo Hatchman is redefining the role of the quantity surveyor in Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction and property sectors. As founder of Hatch Consulting, she has grown a female-led, values-driven practice that brings contractor-side experience into strategic project advisory, helping clients make smarter delivery decisions. In 2025, her team expanded while continuing to deliver practical, commercially grounded guidance on complex developments. Jo is equally committed to strengthening the profession, delivering industry training and fostering emerging talent — reflected in multiple team award wins. Through entrepreneurial leadership and a people-first culture, she is elevating the influence and capability of quantity surveying nationwide.

Karin Speight

Sector Lead – Land Development, Principal Geotechnical Engineer, Tonkin + Taylor

Karin Speight is advancing smarter, more resilient land development across Aotearoa through engineering leadership and digital innovation. As Principal Geotechnical Engineer and Sector Lead for Land Development at Tonkin + Taylor, she guides complex projects across housing, health, education and infrastructure. Her leadership on the award-winning Whenuapai Senior Campus reflects her ability to balance technical precision with practical delivery. Beyond project work, Karin is driving innovation through digital tools that improve site selection, risk assessment and project planning, while contributing to national research on landslides and expansive soils. Through mentorship and forward-thinking engineering, she is helping shape safer and more sustainable communities.

Kerry O'Donnell

Partner, Property and Private Client, Anderson Lloyd

Kerry O’Donnell is helping guide Queenstown’s growth with foresight, integrity and deep community commitment. As a senior property lawyer at Anderson Lloyd, she has supported major residential developments in 2025, including the 750-section Kingston Village project, providing the legal framework for staged, sustainable expansion in a high-growth region. Her work across acquisitions, joint ventures and financing has strengthened development certainty while balancing environmental and community considerations. Beyond commercial practice, Kerry leads as Chair of the Queenstown Heritage Trust and serves as a trustee supporting local students, exemplifying leadership grounded in stewardship and long-term regional wellbeing.

Laura Johns

Director, RDT Pacific

Driving both project delivery and professional excellence, Laura Johns is making a significant contribution to New Zealand’s built environment. As Director and Auckland Lead at RDT Pacific, she has guided major programmes in 2025 including BNZ’s 80 Queen Street refurbishment and key public sector projects across justice, health and education. Her leadership has delivered strong outcomes for clients while supporting the continued growth of RDT Pacific’s Auckland practice. Beyond project work, Laura plays an active role in strengthening the profession through RICS chartership assessments and NZIQS interviews. Recognised as RICS New Zealand Woman of the Built Environment, she champions both industry capability and people-first leadership.

Lauren Joyce

Head of Auckland Office Portfolio, Precinct Properties

Lauren Joyce is helping shape the next generation of commercial property leadership in Aotearoa. Through her work at Precinct Properties, she contributes to complex mixed-use developments that prioritise design excellence, tenant experience and long-term community value. Known for her calm, collaborative approach, she brings investors, tenants and stakeholders together to deliver confident outcomes in high-pressure environments. Beyond project delivery, Lauren has been a driving force in advancing diversity and inclusion across the sector, chairing Property Council’s DEI Committee and helping establish the Inclusion Alliance. Blending commercial rigour with genuine care for people, she is strengthening both places and the profession.

Louise Martin

Head of Legal & Company Secretary, Auckland Airport

Louise Martin is shaping one of Aotearoa’s most significant infrastructure precincts with clarity, conviction and care. At Auckland Airport, she plays a central role in complex development, precinct planning and asset optimisation, balancing commercial performance with long-term community and cultural outcomes. Her ability to navigate competing priorities — from airlines and tenants to mana whenua and regulators — ensures projects are both visionary and deliverable. Known for her integrity and high standards, Louise champions inclusive design and authentic engagement while mentoring emerging leaders across the sector. Through strategic leadership grounded in humanity, she is influencing the future of New Zealand’s built environment.

Marilyn Storey

Head of Development, Argosy Property Limited

Marilyn Storey continues to set the benchmark for commercial property leadership in Aotearoa. As Head of Development at Argosy, she has led a pipeline of major industrial projects over the past year, targeting six Green Star Built-rated developments and embedding sustainability at scale. Operating in a complex market environment, she brings sharp commercial judgement, technical depth and decisive execution to every project, strengthening portfolio performance and long-term value. Widely recognised for her mentorship and high standards, Marilyn also shapes sector practice through her Urban Design Panel involvement. Her influence is evident in stronger assets, stronger teams and a more resilient built environment.

Mitika Chaturvedi

Sustainability Lead, Fosters Construction Group

Mitika Chaturvedi is driving measurable climate action across New Zealand’s construction sector. As Sustainability Lead at Fosters Construction Group, her leadership has contributed to a 38% absolute emissions reduction and a 90% drop in waste-to-landfill emissions since 2019–20. In 2025, she delivered a Green Star v1.1 Design Rating for the Air Liquide project within an accelerated programme, building new sustainability capability across consultants and contractors. Beyond project delivery, she champions industry-wide change — mentoring other firms on Toitū and Green Star pathways and leading New Zealand’s only construction sustainability work experience programme. Her influence is practical, scalable and transformative.

Nikki Mazur

Head of Property – New Zealand & Pacific, ANZ Bank New Zealand

Nikki Mazur is redefining how corporate property portfolios can reflect identity, culture and long-term responsibility. As lead of Tākiri Ā Nuku, ANZ’s New Zealand Property Strategy, she has embedded Te Ao Māori principles into spatial design, investment decisions and partnership models across one of the country’s largest portfolios. In the past year, she has advanced culturally grounded, accessible and future-focused property environments that prioritise people and place. Building on her previous leadership delivering inclusive national infrastructure at Waka Kotahi, Nikki brings cultural fluency and strategic foresight to every project — shaping workplaces that honour whenua and support intergenerational prosperity.

Rachel Morgan

Director, Barker & Associates

Rachel Morgan is shaping the planning frameworks that guide growth across Aotearoa. As a Director at Barker & Associates, she has led complex district plan reviews, structure plans and strategic planning projects that influence how communities accommodate development while building resilience for the future. In the past year, her leadership has helped align public policy and private sector delivery, creating clearer pathways for sustainable growth. Beyond project work, she advances wellbeing, cultural capability and technical excellence within her firm and the wider industry. Through principled leadership and sector advocacy, Rachel is strengthening both planning practice and property outcomes nationwide.

Rebecca Ryder

Partner | Landscape Architect, Boffa Miskell

Rebecca Ryder has spent more than two decades shaping property outcomes that balance growth with environmental and cultural integrity. As a Shareholder Director and Partner at Boffa Miskell, she provides landscape planning and visual assessment expertise on major developments across Waikato and the Bay of Plenty, guiding projects that integrate mana whenua values and long-term community benefit. In the past year, her leadership has continued to influence high-profile urban regeneration, industrial expansion and waterfront transformation initiatives. Through governance, mentorship and sector advocacy, Rebecca is embedding sustainability, cultural responsiveness and design excellence into New Zealand’s evolving property landscape.

Renée Young

Associate Director | New Zealand Mechanical Lead, Norman Disney & Young

Renée Young is shaping some of Aotearoa’s most high-profile developments while championing a more inclusive and culturally responsive industry. As Mechanical Lead at Norman Disney & Young, she has led building services delivery for landmark projects including New Zealand’s first IKEA store at Sylvia Park and multiple developments across the Britomart Precinct. Her leadership combines technical excellence with strong people development, guiding multidisciplinary teams through complex, high-performance projects. Beyond delivery, Renée actively mentors women in engineering, establishes supportive professional networks, and promotes cultural awareness across the sector. Through both project leadership and advocacy, she is helping redefine the future of engineering in the built environment.

Renee Smith-Apanui

Pou Tāhū | Managing Director, ŌRUA

Renee Smith-Apanui is driving structural change across Aotearoa New Zealand’s architecture and built environment sectors. As Co-founder and Pou Tāhū of ŌRUA, she champions kaupapa Māori leadership that uplifts whānau, hapū and iwi through design and governance. In 2025, she spearheaded the inaugural Puritia Te Aka Matua industry reports, establishing a new benchmark for accountability and improved outcomes for Māori architects and tauira. With an Accountability Framework set to follow, her work is shifting industry standards from aspiration to measurable change. Through governance roles, mentorship and advocacy, Renee is strengthening representation and embedding equity across the profession.

Sarah Toase

Chief Executive, Crane Association of New Zealand

Sarah Toase is strengthening the foundations of New Zealand’s construction and property sectors by tackling workforce and safety challenges head-on. In 2025, she led the establishment of a new industry-led Private Training Establishment for the crane and port sectors, securing TEC funding to address critical skills shortages impacting nationwide development. She also progressed a government-approved rewrite of the Approved Code of Practice for Cranes, modernising safety standards that underpin construction delivery. Beyond policy, Sarah champions equity initiatives and public engagement programmes that expand career pathways. Her leadership is practical, future-focused and vital to keeping Aotearoa building safely and sustainably.

Tamba Carleton

New Zealand Research Director, CBRE

Tamba Carleton is shaping how the property sector understands markets, risk and opportunity. As New Zealand Research Director at CBRE, her analysis informs major development decisions and national policy conversations. In 2025, she co-authored the nationwide Residential Valuer Insights Survey and produced influential research on effective housing demand, helping fill critical knowledge gaps in Auckland’s planning debate. Her insights regularly reach industry audiences through national media, conferences and CBRE’s annual Residential Symposium. Alongside her research leadership, Tamba mentors emerging professionals and contributes to wider community initiatives. Through rigorous analysis and sector engagement, she is elevating the quality of property market intelligence across Aotearoa.

Tessa Beetham

Wellington Buildings Structures Lead, Aurecon

In a city defined by seismic complexity, Tessa Beetham is helping redefine what resilient infrastructure looks like. As Wellington Buildings Structures Lead at Aurecon, she has guided technically demanding projects including the National Archives redevelopment and the Te Ngākau Civic Precinct upgrades, restoring vital public spaces with precision and long-term foresight. Her leadership extends beyond delivery — influencing seismic policy reform and advancing diversity as Vice President of SESOC. By bringing engineers, policymakers and communities together, Tessa is ensuring Wellington’s most important buildings are not only stronger, but smarter, more inclusive and built to endure.

About Property Council New Zealand

Property Council is the leading advocate for Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest industry – property.

Property Council New Zealand is the one organisation that collectively champions property. We bring together members from all corners of the property ecosystem to advocate for reduced red tape that enables development, encourages investment, and supports our communities to thrive.

Property is New Zealand’s largest industry, making up 15% of economic activity. As a sector, we employ 10% of New Zealand’s workforce and contribute over $50.2 billion to GDP.

A not-for-profit organisation, the Property Council connects over 10,000 property professionals, championing the interests of over 600 member companies.

Our membership is broad and includes some of the largest commercial and residential property owners and developers in New Zealand. The property industry comes together at our local, national and online events, which offer professional development, exceptional networking and access to industry-leading research. 

Our members shape the cities and spaces where New Zealanders live, work, play and shop.

www.propertynz.co.nz 

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Universities – $5.1 million grant to eliminate cervical cancer in Pacific region – UoA

Source: University of Auckland – UoA

Pacific-led initiatives set to eliminate cervical cancer across the Pacific

Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa – Centre for Pacific and Global Health at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, and its Pacific partners, are supporting the rollout of safe initiatives across the Pacific that are proven to prevent cervical cancer and save lives.

Cervical cancer is a largely preventable disease but remains a leading cause of cancer death among Pacific women. In parts of the Pacific, incidence rates are up to nine times higher than in Australasia.

The Matariki Fund, administered by Rt Hon Dame Jacinda Ardern, is supporting the programme by expanding access to new and existing locally led cancer prevention initiatives for more people across the Pacific.

This new partnership enables a new Pacific-led and coordinated programme of work that:

  • Increases HPV vaccination coverage to reach at least 90% of girls. 
  • Expands access to cervical self-testing to achieve at least 70% of eligible women
  • Facilitates timely diagnostics to enable treatment for pre-cancerous lesions and invasive cancer
  • Establishes a coalition of Pacific women leaders to lead workforce and capability development, including digital and health system infrastructure.

The programme made possible through a NZ$5.1 million grant by the Matariki Fund, and active work of other partners in the region, will begin with a focus on the Cook Islands and Niue before being scaled up across the region.

Cervical cancer can be prevented through HPV vaccination, regular screening and timely diagnosis and treatment. Yet access to these services remains uneven across the Pacific. This new investment provides a critical opportunity to align national programmes, regional partners, and women leaders around a common goal towards elimination.

The initiative will work alongside successful existing regional programmes, including the EPICC programme (funded by the Australian Government and the Minderoo Foundation) and the Polynesian Health Corridors (PHC) (managed by the New Zealand Ministry of Health and funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade).

Together, these partnerships will help scale effective interventions, reduce duplication, and strengthen regional health systems.

Aligning with the WHO Global Strategy to Eliminate Cervical Cancer the initiative aims to support countries to achieve the “90–70–90” targets by 2030 — a threshold at which elimination becomes possible.  In practice, this means aiming to achieving 90% of girls aged 15 years receiving the HPV vaccine, 70% of women screened by age 35 years, and again at 45 years; and 90% of women with pre-cancer and invasive cancers treated.

Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga, Co-Director of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, says the funding is a gamechanger for regional collaboration.

“Cervical cancer is preventable, yet too many Pacific women continue to die from it. This investment allows Pacific countries to work together — sharing expertise, strengthening systems, and supporting women leaders — to achieve elimination.”

Pacific women will be at the forefront of the initiative, working in partnership with Te Marae Ora (Cook Islands), the Niue Department of Health, and regional organisations.

Professor Judith McCool, Head of the School of Population Health and Co-Director of Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, says the funding enables sustainable, system-level change.

“This grant allows us to move beyond isolated interventions to a truly collaborative, Pacific-led approach. By strengthening leadership, governance, and regional partnerships, we are building the foundations for long-term health equity.”

Rt. Hon. Dame Jacinda Ardern says:
“Pacific women are disproportionately affected by a disease that can be eliminated. There is such excellent leadership within the region – this funding is simply about supporting them to save lives with solutions that should be available to everyone.”
 
Total investment: NZ$5,097,210
Duration: 2026–2031
Lead organisation: Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa, Centre for Pacific and Global Health – University of Auckland

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REVEALED: Scientists’ discovery of ancient deep sea corals brings new hope for protection against threat of industrial fishing – Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

New scientific research from Greenpeace has uncovered ancient and fragile corals at a Lord Howe Rise seamount in the South Pacific, an area of huge ecological significance in the high seas that has never been surveyed before.
This scientific discovery, from just one seamount on the Lord Howe Rise, has proven for the first time that the seamount is a vulnerable marine ecosystem. This new status should protect it from destructive bottom trawling, according to international rules intended to protect these fragile ecosystems. This discovery comes as bottom trawling was temporarily paused in the area in 2024, but threatens to make a return.
The scientists catalogued a total of 350 corals, sponges and other life forms in just a fraction of the Lord Howe Rise seamount – many of which are 100+ years old and some reaching almost 2 metres in height. Slow-growing and fragile, the corals include bamboo, golden, precious, stony, hydro and black, in addition to sponges, sea lilies and anemones.
Vulnerable marine ecosystems are fragile, rare, or complex marine habitats that are highly susceptible to irreparable damage from human activities. Campaigners say this means that the area must be closed to damaging bottom trawling for good – widely considered to be the greatest threat to seamount ecosystems.
Commenting, Greenpeace Aotearoa Ocean Campaigner Ellie Hooper who led the scientific expedition to Lord Howe Rise, says:
“It was moving and awe-inspiring to see these vibrant corals and fragile sponges streamed up from the deep, but right now they face an uncertain future. If this site is reopened, these ancient species could be destroyed by New Zealand bottom trawlers in the future. And this discovery is just a tiny snapshot of life in the area.
“The New Zealand government must stop protecting the interests of industrial fishing companies and not attempt to reopen the area for bottom trawling. Every other nation has stopped this destructive practice in the region, are they not embarrassed to be the only ones left?
“We are now armed with the proof we needed that bottom trawling must be banned here. It’s clear that this is a vulnerable marine ecosystem so it’s crucial we act now to protect this fragile life in the deep from destruction.”
Lord Howe Rise is of huge ecological significance, but despite this it remains under serious threat. Whilst the seamount surveyed was temporarily closed to bottom trawling in 2024 after a New Zealand trawler – the Tasman Viking – dragged up 37kg of coral, the New Zealand government could push to reopen that area to destructive bottom trawling, which could destroy the ancient corals and sponges scientists have documented there.
The New Zealand government in early 2026 submitted a proposal to increase the amount of coral and other vulnerable deep-sea species that can be trawled up as bycatch on the high seas without consequence. This proposal was submitted ahead of the annual meeting of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation this week, with Greenpeace also submitting the findings from Lord Howe.
International resolutions state that vulnerable marine ecosystems should be protected from bottom trawling due to their fragility, ecosystem importance and slow recovery rate, making them incredibly vulnerable to this fishing method.
The area is being considered for one of the world’s first ocean sanctuaries under the Global Ocean Treaty, which came into force earlier this year.
Notes and Images and video here:
  • Lord Howe Rise stills and video.
  • Seamount Expedition stills
  • – The scientific evidence has been submitted to the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO) Commission 2026 which took place 2-6 March in Panama. This is where the New Zealand Government has also submitted their proposal to increase the amount of coral and other vulnerable species that can be caught as bycatch.
  • – 350 examples of coral, sponges and deep sea life were cataloged (for clarity – note this is not 350 different species but rather 350 instances of deep sea taxa)
  • – The scientific analysis was conducted on a subset of footage recorded during deep-sea video surveys from the Greenpeace Seamounts Expedition in March 2025. The seamount is on the Central Lord Howe Rise, in international waters managed by the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation (SPRFMO). Of the 77 still images analysed to determine if they met the VME FAO Deep-sea Fisheries criteria 45% (33) were classified a VMEs. 59 individual deep-sea coral and sponge taxon have been aged by expert taxonomists at over 100+ years old, and some likely even 200+ years old, based on their heights and published growth rates.
  • – International rules (UNGA Resolutions (61/105 & 64/72) mandate that vulnerable marine ecosystems should be protected from bottom trawling due to their fragility, ecosystem importance and slow recovery rate, making them incredibly vulnerable to this fishing method.
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Health Concerns – Questions over dilapidated and cramped renal unit forced to ration dialysis – NZNO

Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

The Health Minister must explain why after years of concerns from nurses about Christchurch Hospital’s barely functioning dialysis unit, he only stepped in late yesterday when life-saving treatment had to be rationed, NZNO says.
Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) Chief Executive Paul Goulter says NZNO members have been raising concerns about the dilapidated and cramped dialysis unit for “a number of years”.
“These issues have been well-known by hospital leadership. In their most recent letter, (attached) NZNO members warned ‘the current conditions pose a serious risk to both patient safety and staff wellbeing’.
“The mouldy and leaking unit has never been refurbished and increasing demand last month forced the Clinical Director to write to patients saying life-saving dialysis would have to be rationed,” Paul Goulter says.
“However, it was only yesterday when 1 News started asking looking into the issue that Simeon Brown stepped in and ordered more staff for the unit.
“Questions remain unaddressed about how the new staff will fit in the unit which is so tiny there is no room for existing staff to even leave their bags in their workspace.
“The Minister’s announcement was so rushed it seemed to catch Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury off guard.
“Simeon Brown claims to put patients first and values nurses. If this is true, he should listen to health workers rather than manage the public health sector based on the 6pm television news bulletin,” Paul Goulter says. 
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Local authority statistics: December 2025 quarter – Stats NZ information release

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Fonterra – Mainland Group sale unconditional

Source: Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd
 
Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today confirmed that the agreement to sell its global consumer and associated businesses, Mainland Group to Lactalis for $4.22 billion is now unconditional.
 
All required regulatory approvals have been received and the separation of Mainland Group from Fonterra is complete.
 
With all conditions of the sale satisfied, Fonterra and Lactalis will now proceed to complete the transaction.
 
Timing of capital return
 
In February, Fonterra shareholders voted to approve a capital return of $2.00 per share to shareholders and unitholders following completion of the transaction.
 
Fonterra can today advise that it expects the record date to be eligible for the capital return to be 9 April 2026 and the payment date to be 14 April 2026, based off the transaction completing at the end of March 2026.
 
Fonterra will confirm the capital return record date and payment date when the transaction completes.
 
About Fonterra  
 
Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together.
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Appointments – Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Appoints New Chief Executive

Source: Heritage New Zealand

Appointment announced by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga announces the appointment of Dean Whiting MNZM (Te Whānau ā Apanui/ Farquharson) as its new Chief Executive / Manahautū.
Mr Whiting will move from his current position as Deputy Chief Executive Kaihautū Māori. Mr Whiting has been the Acting CEO since the completion of tenure of former CE, Andrew Coleman, in 2025. As a long-serving staff member of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Mr Whiting has led programmes supporting the protection, conservation, and celebration of Aotearoa New Zealand’s heritage places, taonga and cultural landscapes.
In 2023, Mr Whiting was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Māori Arts, recognising his significant contribution to Māori arts revitalisation and preservation. His work has included hands on leadership of the Māori Built Heritage Programme of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and wide-ranging support and advice to Māori communities across the motu.
Mr Whiting has also served on the Boards of the Arts Council of New Zealand, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and worked as a project conservator for the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. He is currently chair of the Tohu Whenua heritage tourism programme and leading the governance oversight of seismic strengthening and adaptive reuse of Turnbull House in Wellington. His long-standing commitment to strengthening the heritage sector reflects a future-focused approach to safeguarding both heritage places and our significant cultural landscapes.
Board Chair Dame Jo Brosnahan says the organisation is well-positioned for the future with Mr Whiting at the helm. “Dean’s appointment marks an important next step for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. His deep experience, proven leadership and clear strategic focus give the Board great confidence as we enter a new phase of strengthening partnerships, supporting our people, and delivering on our long-term heritage responsibilities.”
Edward Ellison, Deputy Chair of the Board and Chair of the Māori Heritage Council, warmly welcomes the appointment. “The legacy of Te Māori – the landmark international exhibition – lives on in this moment. Dean was part of the original cohort of conservators whose training was made possible by Te Māori, and he carries that whakapapa of heritage revitalisation into this role. It is deeply fitting that Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga is now led by someone shaped by that moment.”
Mr Whiting brings deep organisational knowledge and a long-standing commitment to bicultural partnership under the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014. His appointment marks a continuation of the organisation’s strategic focus on ensuring sites and stories that are important to all New Zealanders are protected and revitalised for future generations.
About Dean Whiting MNZM
Dean Whiting MNZM completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in the Conservation of Cultural Materials (Canberra, Aus) in the late 1980s with a cohort of Māori students who continue to be regarded as New Zealand’s leading experts in the conservation of traditional Māori arts. He has worked for more than 30 years as both an independent conservator, Project Conservator at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga on the conservation of Māori cultural heritage. Dean was most recently the Deputy Chief Executive Kaihautū Māori for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and has served on the Board of Creative New Zealand between 2017 and 2022 and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). In 2023 he was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Māori Arts.
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Conflict – NEW ZEALANDERS URGED TO SUPPORT CHILDREN IN LEBANON FACING YET MORE DANGER AND FEAR – World Vision

Source: World Vision

World Vision New Zealand is calling for urgent international action as renewed conflict in Lebanon has forced more than 94,000 people, including thousands of children, from their homes. 
The surge in hostilities has centred on southern Lebanon, the Bekaa Valley, and Beirut's southern suburbs, with more than 12,000 families displaced, and numbers rising every day.
World Vision warns that more than one million children already in need of humanitarian assistance in Lebanon are now at even greater risk. 
World Vision New Zealand Country Programme Manager, Andy Robinson, says the images emerging from Lebanon are devastating, but New Zealanders can help.
“Thousands of children in Lebanon have been forced to flee their homes in a very short space of time, and are facing an uncertain future, currently living in over-crowded collective shelters.
“The sound of rockets and missile explosions has become part of their childhood, which should never be normal. New Zealanders should not accept this as normal either. It’s a really scary time. Right now, World Vision and other NGOs are working around the clock to support vulnerable children and families, but we urgently need more support to reach all of those who need our help.” 
Robinson says World Vision's teams in Lebanon responded within hours of this week’s escalation in violence, delivering hot meals and ready-to-eat food to more than 36,000 displaced people living in collective shelters.He says the organisation is also adapting its school nutrition programme to ensure children sheltering in emergency centres have enough to eat. 
Children bearing the heaviest burden 
World Vision warns that children caught in the crisis face compounding harms, including psychological trauma, disrupted schooling, family separation, and deteriorating living conditions.
Many have already lived through multiple rounds of conflict, and Lebanon's decade-long economic collapse has stripped away what little safety net remained.
Families are crowding into collective shelters where overcrowding and instability are taking a further toll on children's mental health and sense of security.
Robinson says needs are rapidly outpacing capacity. 
“All children deserve to grow up in a community shaped by peace, not conflict. We urgently call on all parties to protect children and civilians and to prevent further harm to their safety, wellbeing and future.” 
World Vision New Zealand is scaling up its emergency response in Lebanon and is calling on the New Zealanders to help support children affected by this current spike in violence.
Funds will support food assistance, safe spaces, psychosocial support, and access to education for displaced children. To donate or for more information, visit worldvision.org.nz
Notes:
World Vision has worked in Lebanon for more than 50 years, delivering humanitarian assistance and development programmes for vulnerable children and families.
Its work includes emergency food support, education, child protection, clean water, healthcare and psychosocial services in some of the country’s most fragile communities.
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ASB wins Morningstar Fund Manager of the Year – KiwiSaver award

Source: ASB

Morningstar has named ASB as KiwiSaver Fund Manager of the Year New Zealand for 2026, rewarding the strong fund performance achieved for its nearly half a million KiwiSaver members during 2025.

ASB Chief Investment Officer Frank Jasper says that this independent endorsement is a real vote of confidence for ASB’s KiwiSaver members.  

“As one of the country’s largest KiwiSaver providers, we take great responsibility and care in managing our customers’ money and take the trust they place in us very seriously.

“Every investment decision we make is with the goal to help New Zealanders have confidence in their financial future – whether that’s saving for retirement or buying their first home.” says Frank.  

ASB’s Growth, Moderate, Balanced and Conservative KiwiSaver funds all achieved top quartile returns for both one and three year rolling periods. ASB Moderate and Conservative funds also ranked number one in their categories for 1-year returns to 31 December 2025 according to latest Morningstar’s latest KiwiSaver report December 2025, showcasing ASB’s strength across the range of investment strategies and risk profiles.

The funds’ strong performance, particularly during a year of volatility and unpredictable markets, reflects a carefully curated and disciplined long-term investment approach, in partnership with world-class fund manager BlackRock.

“We will continue to innovate and build out our investment capability to deliver even stronger outcomes for our customers, while empowering savers and investors to make the right decisions that’ll help them grow and achieve their long-term goals.” says Frank.  

Matt Olsen, Morningstar Australasia’s Director, Manager Research, said “It’s fair to say that 2025 was a challenging year to navigate. There were inflation surprises, geopolitical uncertainty, and growth uncertainty. Compounded by a market displaying valuations disconnected from fundamentals, it made it a challenging year, even for the best investors.

“Despite this, our nominated fund managers demonstrated an ability to deliver quality, high-performing investments and have stood above peers with exceptional returns over the longer term.” concludes Olsen.

For more information about the Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence in New Zealand: Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence New Zealand 2026: Winners Announced | Morningstar