Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

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Health and Science – ProCare rejects misinformation linking paracetamol use in pregnancy to autism

Source: ProCare

Leading healthcare provider, ProCare, has today joined medical professionals and authorities across the motu in strongly rejecting the misinformation linking paracetamol use in pregnancy to autism.

The guidance provided by New Zealand’s health authorities, including Medsafe and the Ministry of Health, are clear around the safe use of paracetamol during pregnancy. Claims circulating in international media suggesting a link between paracetamol and autism are not supported by credible scientific evidence.

Dr Allan Moffitt, Clinical Director at ProCare, says: “It’s deeply concerning to see misinformation gaining traction around such a commonly used and well-studied medicine. Paracetamol remains a safe option for managing pain and fever during pregnancy when used appropriately. We urge people to speak with their healthcare provider and rely on trusted New Zealand sources for medical advice.”

“We encourage whānau to seek advice from their GP, midwife, or pharmacist before making decisions about medication. New Zealanders can trust that our clinical recommendations are based on robust, peer-reviewed research and local expertise.

Paracetamol has been used safely for decades, including during pregnancy. The claims being circulated are not backed by credible science, and it’s important that we don’t let misinformation undermine public trust in proven treatments,” he continues.

“As GPs, we see firsthand how confusing health misinformation can be for patients. Our role is to provide clear, evidence-based advice; and that includes reassuring pregnant women that paracetamol, when used appropriately, remains a safe option. Untreated fever, on the other hand, can be harmful to the baby,” points out Dr Moffitt.

“We must be careful not to perpetuate harmful narratives about autism. It’s not something to be feared or ‘prevented’ – it’s a natural part of human diversity. Our focus should be on supporting neurodiverse individuals and their whānau with compassion and respect,” concludes Dr Moffitt.

ProCare also stands with Autism New Zealand in rejecting harmful narratives that stigmatise neurodiversity. Autism is a natural part of human variation, and our health system must continue to support inclusive, affirming care for all.

About ProCare

ProCare is a leading healthcare provider that aims to deliver the most progressive, pro-active and equitable health and wellbeing services in Aotearoa. We do this through our clinical support services, mental health and wellness services, virtual/tele health, mobile health, smoking cessation and by taking a population health and equity approach to our mahi.

As New Zealand’s largest Primary Health Organisation, we represent a network of general practice teams and healthcare professionals who provide care to nearly 700,000 patients across Auckland. These practices serve the largest Pacific and South Asian populations enrolled in general practice and the largest Māori population in Tāmaki Makaurau. For more information go to www.procare.co.nz

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Economy – New Zealand Treasury’s 2025 Long-term Fiscal Statement published

Source: The Treasury

– Population ageing remains a significant long-term fiscal challenge.
– Despite favourable economic tailwinds in the past 20 years, New Zealand’s debt is higher than anticipated
– It is vital New Zealand closes its structural fiscal deficit sooner rather than later.
– Fiscal pressures will accelerate in coming decades with costs of superannuation and healthcare expected to rise significantly as the population ages.
– There is no one solution and successive governments will need to consider a mix of options to deliver fiscal sustainability over the coming years.
The Treasury has published He Tirohanga Mokopuna, its latest Long-Term Fiscal Statement, which highlights the growing pressures on New Zealand’s public finances and calls for a proactive, balanced response to ensure long-term fiscal sustainability.
“Over the past two decades, the Treasury has consistently warned that population ageing is placing increasing strain on the Government’s fiscal position. Despite some positive developments, New Zealand has been running a structural operating deficit since 2019/20, underscoring the need for sustained fiscal adjustment,” said Iain Rennie.
“This means that even without future pressures from population ageing, climate change, or infrastructure needs, we must adjust our fiscal settings to bring revenue and expenditure back into balance.”
As per earlier Statements, He Tirohanga Mokopuna finds that population ageing remains a significant long-term fiscal challenge with New Zealand Superannuation (NZS) and publicly-funded healthcare expected to rise substantially.
In 1965, there were seven working-age New Zealanders for every person over 65. Today, that ratio is four to one, and by 2065 it is projected to be just two to one. Most New Zealanders over 65 receive a pension funded from general taxation. As the age structure of our population shifts, the cost of maintaining NZS in its current form will rise significantly. Similarly, health expenditure could increase from 7.1% of GDP today to around 10% by 2065 if policies remain unchanged.
The Statement also notes that climate change, defence, and infrastructure investment will add further fiscal pressures in the decades ahead.
The Treasury’s analysis shows that early action would reduce the overall cost of reform, make changes less disruptive, and result in higher per capita incomes and lower long-term tax rates.
“We don’t need to tackle 40 years of pressures in one fell swoop,” said Iain Rennie.
“Starting earlier provides more opportunities to share transition costs across generations and avoid more disruptive change later. It allows us to signal changes well in advance, helping New Zealanders plan and adjust.
“Returning to surplus is an important first step,” said Iain Rennie.
The Statement outlines a range of policy options, including adjustments to NZS eligibility and indexation, changes to tax settings, and improvements in public asset management. It emphasises that no single tool will be sufficient and Governments will need a portfolio of responses over time.
The Long-term Fiscal Statement and Short Summary can be found on the Treasury website here: https://www.treasury.govt.nz/publications/ltfp/he-tirohanga-mokopuna-2025
Note:
The Long-term Fiscal Statement is one of three stewardship reports the Treasury is publishing year. The 2025 Long-term Insights Briefing explores the circumstances under which fiscal policy can be used to buffer the economy from shocks and cycles, and how to do so in a sustainable and effective way. This was released in August and can be found here: Te Ara Mokopuna: Treasury's 2025 Long-term Insights Briefing
The Investment Statement is due to be released later this year and will consider how governments’ management of the Crown balance sheet, including debt levels and investments, can support New Zealand’s living standards across generations. 
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New Leadership Network Members to Grow New Zealand’s Success in Asia – Asia NZ Foundation

Source: Asia New Zealand Foundation

The Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono will welcome 41 new members into its Leadership Network this October.
The Foundation’s Leadership Network is a platform for graduate and early-to-mid career New Zealanders to develop leadership skills, expand their knowledge of Asia and build valuable links across the Asia region.
Each year the Foundation receives hundreds of applications from aspiring network members spanning a wide range of backgrounds and sectors. While their experiences vary, each new member shares a commitment to strengthening New Zealand’s connections with Asia.
Since its establishment in 2006, the Leadership Network has grown to include more than 500 members.
The Foundation’s Chief Executive Suzannah Jessep says the high volume of applications reflects the growing interest among young New Zealanders in learning about and connecting to Asia. Recent Foundation research supports this. Close to three quarters of New Zealanders under 30 years old say they consider Asia to be important to New Zealand’s future.
“The calibre of this year’s intake reflects the diversity, talent and drive we need to grow and deepen New Zealand’s connections with the fast-growing Asia region,” Suzannah says.
“As well as professional development, the network helps to grow a community of leaders who understand Asia’s significance to us as a country and to their field of work.”
She adds that the network plays a key role in preparing New Zealanders to engage confidently with a rapidly changing region.
“We have seen members of the network go on to achieve extraordinary things, from becoming Chief Executives and Cabinet Ministers to winning international accolades and founding successful start-ups.”
Ben Fraser, part of the 2025 intake, is a sheep and beef farmer from the central North Island and co-owner of an environmental management company. He says building strong relationships with Asia is essential to New Zealand’s future success.
“Asia’s relationship with New Zealand is vital, though it’s not always openly discussed,” he says.
“Beyond the importance of trade and economics, there is huge value in recognising the cultures, communities and perspectives that shape Asia and how those, in turn, influence our own society and decision making.”
Climate strategist Pok Wei Heng sees joining the Leadership Network as an opportunity to connect with peers, draw on his experiences in Singapore and Malaysia, and foster dialogue on climate resilience between Asia and New Zealand.
“What drew me to the network was the opportunity to be with a community curious about the potential of Asia,” he says.
Filmmaker Joyce Wong says she was motivated to apply after hearing about the incredible experiences of close friends already involved in the network.
“They spoke about the value of connecting with people across diverse industries, which can be difficult once you’re fully immersed in professional life.”
“As a young leader working in film, I’m passionate about amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, and I see a strong alignment of values within this leadership community.”
The new Leadership Network members will be formally inducted in Auckland on 4 October 2025.
About the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono
Established in 1994, the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is New Zealand’s leading provider of Asia insights and experiences. Its mission is to equip New Zealanders to excel in Asia, by providing research, insights and targeted opportunities to grow their knowledge, connections and experiences across the Asia region. The Foundation’s activities cover more than 20 countries in Asia and are delivered through eight core programmes: arts, business, entrepreneurship, leadership, media, research, Track II diplomacy and sports. 
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PSA takes legal action to protect support workers in South Canterbury

Source: PSA

Legal action is underway to protect the pay and conditions of 18 support workers in South Canterbury who have had to transfer to a new employer.
The PSA has filed urgent legal action with the Employment Relations Authority seeking a determination that 18 Timaru based care and support workers can seamlessly transfer to the new employer, Royal District Nursing Service (RDNS), retaining all current terms and conditions including leave entitlements.
The action is against both RDNS and Health NZ – Te Whatu Ora.
RDNS is taking over the contract from Forward Care Home Health on 1 October. The contract is managed by Health NZ – Te Whatu Ora to provide essential care to elderly and other people with health and mobility issues.
“The process of transferring over has been flawed from the get-go, workers have suffered unnecessary stress which could have been avoided if the law had been followed from the start,” said Fleur Fitzsimons National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The law is crystal clear. These workers fall within the definition of ‘vulnerable workers’ under Part 6A of the Employment Relations Act. This means the transfer should be seamless, workers should retain all terms and conditions.
“What RDNS is doing, with Te Whatu Ora’s agreement, is completely out of step with other similar transfers of contracts. All transfers in the Home and Community Support sector across the country over the years have treated the workers as if Part 6a applies and have transferred to the incoming employer on their same terms and conditions.
“Royal District Nursing has not agreed to transfer these workers their leave provisions. This means that those employees will not have an annual leave entitlement, when they start at RDNS and uncertain sick leave entitlements, and may not be able to use their annual leave for another 12 months.”
Care and support worker Miriam Patterson has worked for Forward Care for six years, supporting up to 15 clients a day with housework, bathing, meal preparation and other duties.
“This has been really stressful and confusing when me and my colleagues expected an easy transfer to our new employer. I’m really worried that my accrued leave will be paid out, rather than using it as I expected. Nothing should change as I am still doing the same job with the same people just with a new employer so it just seems unfair to make me wait 12 months before I can take leave again.”
“This whole situation is unfair,” said Fitzsimons. “Te Whatu Ora should not have allowed this uncertainty to happen – it has breached its own good faith obligations under the Employment Relations Act.”
The Code of Good Faith for the Public Health Sector in the Act provides that workers are entitled to be employed by any new employer on the same terms and conditions.
The PSA filed its application with the Employment Relations Authority yesterday.
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand's largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.
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Health organisation concerned by findings linking gas stoves to childhood asthma cases

Source: Asthma and Respiratory Foundation

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ is concerned by new research showing that household gas stoves may be contributing to thousands of childhood asthma cases every year.
A new report, commissioned by Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), reveals that more than 3,200 new childhood asthma cases each year in New Zealand – and hundreds of respiratory hospitalisations – could be linked to exposure to indoor air pollutants.
Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ Chief Executive Ms Letitia Harding says the findings reinforce the Foundation’s concern about indoor air quality and its impact on children’s respiratory health.
“Asthma is one of the most common chronic conditions in New Zealand children, affecting 1 in 8 kids and leading to 360,000 lost school days each year.
“We know that indoor air pollution can trigger new cases or worsen existing symptoms, so it’s concerning to see research linking household appliances like gas stoves, wood burners, and unflued gas heaters to respiratory conditions such as asthma.”
Some people cooking on gas hobs don’t open a window or use an extractor fan, which can increase exposure to these gases, she says.
“This serves as a timely reminder to use good ventilation, especially if someone in the household has a respiratory condition.”
The Foundation has long advocated for better indoor air quality, as without proper ventilation, pollutants can get trapped inside.
This year, a report from Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) – which the Foundation is the New Zealand advocate for – identified indoor air pollution as a major risk factor for asthma.
For years, the Foundation has been calling for a ban on unflued gas heaters in New Zealand as they lack proper ventilation systems, leading to the build-up of poisonous gases in homes.
The heaters have been banned in Canada, some US States and parts of Australia due to health and safety concerns.
Protecting children from indoor pollution is critical to managing asthma risk, Ms Harding says.
“This research should serve as a wake-up call to ensure homes are safe and healthy places to live for children with asthma.”
The Foundation urges New Zealand households to ensure they have good ventilation when cooking and heating the home.
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Civil Defence – Digital billboards to deliver weather warning information during emergencies

Source: NEMA

 

Thanks to a joint initiative between NEMA and MetService, digital billboards across New Zealand will now display MetService’s real-time warning information during severe weather events.

Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) screens will act as an important addition to the country’s existing emergency communications channels.

 

New Zealanders already receive information about severe weather warnings through MetService’s app and website and through radio, TV and social media. Large-format digital billboards are now another way to get that messaging across to the general public.

 

When an area is under MetService Red or Orange Severe Weather Warnings for heavy rain or strong winds, digital billboards will display that a warning is in effect, alongside safety messaging from NEMA. The information is kept up to date through a live data feed that is checked every hour.

 

“MetService is committed to ensuring people receive timely and accurate weather warnings and this partnership is an exciting step to encourage people’s weather preparedness,” said Kathryn Blackmore Sales Manager at MetService.

 

“The digital billboards will help increase people’s awareness of our severe weather warnings and the messaging from NEMA means people have the information they need to stay safe.” 

 

The system’s design ensures warnings are displayed only where relevant. They can be targeted to a specific geographical area, similar to an Emergency Mobile Alert (EMA), which allows NEMA to display crucial safety information to areas forecast to be impacted.

 

“This technology helps spread vital safety information once we see a severe weather event start to develop,” said John Price, Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management at NEMA. 

 

“The speed at which the messaging gets delivered to those who need it is such a huge factor for us funding this work – it’s yet another channel we can utilise to help us improve situational awareness and public safety.”

 

This work has been a collaboration between NEMA, MetService, New Zealand Digital Billboard network LUMO, their development partner, Latch, VML – a behaviour change agency, and Perion – a programmatic DOOH tech platform. 

 

At the time of writing, more than 500 digital out-of-home screens in cities, towns, service stations and retail centres across the country can display this messaging, thanks to other New Zealand-owned DOOH networks taking part in this initiative. Alongside LUMO, Go Media, VAST, Hyper and Market Media have joined forces to create a unified national framework for showcasing public safety information.

 

“With climate change contributing to more frequent and severe weather events, expanding the reach and visibility of warnings is essential. By making use of a channel already embedded in public spaces, this initiative helps to ensure that when it matters most, New Zealanders see the warnings they need to heed,” John Price says.

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Aviation Sector – CAA welcomes three new Board members

Source: New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority

The Associate Minister of Transport, James Meager, today announced three new Civil Aviation Authority Board members.

CAA Board Chair, Mark Darrow, says the new appointments bring in the right skills at the right time.

“I’m pleased to be welcoming individuals who will strengthen the Board’s aviation experience and add exceptional commercial expertise in digital transformation, finance and audit, and change management.

“CAA has been through a major reset over the last year, and we have a clear vision and mandate to further improve the performance and efficiency of the organisation.”

Mike Schubert and Peter O’Regan have been appointed on a three-year term, starting 8 October 2025 and ending 30 September 2028.

Mel Templeton has also been appointed as a new board member on a three-year term, starting 26 May 2026 and ending 30 April 2029. Until then, Mel will be an external Chair to the new CAA Business Transformation Working Group. Mel will provide governance oversight and guidance to CAA’s ambitious programme of work.

This work includes a first principles funding review, planning a major rules modernisation programme, and working through a business transformation plan, which aims to create technology-based efficiency and performance improvements specifically targeted at certification processing times.

“There’s plenty to do, but with a new Board, a new Director, and a refreshed Executive Leadership Team we have fresh energy and focus.

“I look forward to working with my new Board colleagues. Aviation is an incredible sector to be involved with, full of passionate and dedicated people,” Darrow said.

“I would like to personally thank Jill Hatchwell who recently retired from the Board, and acknowledge Charles Spillane, who will retire in May 2026, for their considerable commitment and services to the Board and aviation safety and security.”

Mike Schubert

Mike is a highly experienced Director and Chair with governance and executive roles across professional services, health, primary industries, and technology sectors. He is a qualified Accountant, former PwC partner, and former CEO of law firm Minter Ellison Rudd Watts. He is currently a Director of several Boards across the banking, insurance and health care sectors.

Peter O’Regan

Peter has extensive aviation industry experience across technical, operational, and senior management roles in New Zealand, Australia, the UK and the Middle East. He has led organisations through significant change, applying risk assessments and utilising data analytics. His background spans airlines, air traffic control, aviation and regulatory compliance.

Melanie (Mel) Templeton

Mel has over 20 years’ experience in technology, marketing, and financial services, with a strong focus on digital transformation. She is an Independent Director with TSB Bank Ltd, Motor Trade Finance (MTF) Ltd, Booster Investment Management Ltd and Xerra Ltd. As a member of Inland Revenue’s Risk and Assurance Committee, she helped implement large scale technology solutions during a period of change. She currently chairs digital transformation committees across several organisations.

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Legislation – Privacy Amendment Act passes

Source: Office of the Privacy Commissioner

The Privacy Commissioner says the Privacy Amendment Act, which has just become law, will increase transparency and help New Zealanders to better exercise their privacy rights.
Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster says that the important change in the Privacy Amendment Act is the addition of new Information Privacy Principle 3A (IPP3A).
Agencies already have to inform people when they collect their personal information from them, under IPP 3. Under new IPP3A, if an agency (business or organisation) collects an individual’s personal information from someone other than the person themselves (i.e. indirectly), then that agency is required to tell the person, unless an exception applies.
If an agency has collected personal information indirectly, IPP3A requires them to take reasonable steps to make sure that the person concerned is told:
– that the information has been collected
– the purpose of the collection
– the intended recipients of the information
– the name and address of the agency that is collecting the information and the agency that holds the information
– whether the collection is authorised or required by law and which particular law
– their right to access and correct their information.
IPP3A will come into force on 1 May 2026, and all organisations will need to have their systems in place to comply with the new requirements by then. There are a range of practical exceptions that will help agencies to apply the new IPP 3A in their context.
Earlier this year OPC consulted on draft guidance for organisations about the requirements of IPP3A. We will be publishing this guidance  later this year.
OPC is also reviewing the Codes of Practice issued under the Privacy Act to determine whether any amendments are required to incorporate IPP3A.
“Telling people when you’re collecting information about them supports open and transparent collection practices and helps people better understand where and how their information is being used,” says Mr Webster.
“The passing of the Privacy Amendment Act helps support that transparency for New Zealanders. This reform helps keep our privacy law in line with other countries like Australia, the UK and Europe. There are other pressing privacy reforms that I will continue to advocate for with the government of the day.”
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Appointments – Reserve Bank NZ Board welcomes new Governor and extension of current Governor’s term

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

24 September 2025 – The RBNZ Board has welcomed the appointment of a new Governor following a robust and extensive recruitment process.

The Minister of Finance announced Dr Anna Breman as Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand for a five-year term from 1 December 2025.

RBNZ Governor Christian Hawkesby will remain in the Governor role until then.

RBNZ Board Deputy Chair Rodger Finlay says Dr Breman's appointment follows a robust recruitment process in which 300 individuals were identified, contacted or interviewed.

“The Board was pleased with the quality candidates who were attracted to the role, indicating the RBNZ's strong reputation domestically and internationally.”

Mr Finlay says the Board was thrilled to have nominated Dr Breman, who possesses leadership skills across the broad spectrum of central bank activities: “Anna's experience spans central banking, academia and financial markets. She has strong technical knowledge within monetary policy, financial stability and payments systems after several years at the Executive Board at the Riksbank and an extensive international experience.”

Christian Hawkesby's term as Governor will be extended until November 30, and he will support a smooth transition to Dr Breman when she takes the role of Governor from December 1. He will then depart from RBNZ.

“The Board is grateful for Christian's ongoing leadership and commitment to RBNZ. We are very fortunate to have had him step into the role of Governor during a transformative time for RBNZ. We respect his decision to resign from RBNZ when the new Governor is in post and thank him for his continued commitment to RBNZ's people and its important work.”

Mr Hawkesby says it is important to provide space for the new Governor to succeed, and his key priority will be a smooth handover to new Governor.

“I am fully committed to supporting Anna and leading the RBNZ through this remaining period – including completing our organisational changes, concluding the Capital Review of the deposit taking sector, chairing the MPC, delivering the Financial Stability Report, leading our remaining parliamentary hearings, and supporting the morale of our staff through a period of significant change.”

Mr Hawkesby thanked the Board for its support over the past six and half years at the RBNZ, first as Assistant Governor, then as Deputy Governor, and most recently as Governor under section 96 of the RBNZ Act.

More information:

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Scam victim numbers down, but losses up, reports Banking Ombudsman

Source: Banking Ombudsman Scheme

The Banking Ombudsman Scheme helped more than 5,800 bank customers and facilitated compensation or refunds totalling more than $2 million according to its latest annual report. The most common complaints were about personal transaction accounts, property lending and credit cards.
Complaints and disputes were up 4 per cent and 7 per cent respectively. Despite this, the scheme exceeded its timeliness targets and maintained high satisfaction among users (more than 80 per cent).
Financial hardship complaints rose 55 per cent, according to the report. Most involved vehicle and home loans and KiwiSaver withdrawals. Service-related complaints rose 11 per cent. Poor communication was a recurring issue in many of these complaints.
Scam-related complaints fell 17 per cent to 694 cases, but the average reported loss increased 10 per cent to $88,000 this year – up from $80,000 in 2023-24.
Banking Ombudsman Nicola Sladden said the drop in scam cases reflected recent initiatives by banks to tackle scams. However, she cautioned against any suggestion that scammers were on the ropes.
“Scams remain a serious concern, especially given their increasing sophistication and impact,” said Ms Sladden. “We are pleased to be part of the new Anti-Scam Alliance, and we continue to push for stronger industry codes and coordinated action to protect consumers.”
The scheme underwent an independent review during the year, which concluded the Banking Ombudsman Scheme is “a modern ombudsman scheme that makes a valued and credible contribution to a fair banking sector”. The reviewer made 11 recommendations, all of which have been implemented.
The annual report also announced the retirement of the chair of the scheme’s board, Miriam Dean, who has held the position for 12 years. She will be replaced in January by Michael Heron, a well-known KC and former Solicitor General with expertise in commercial law, dispute resolution and governance.
Ms Dean said Mr Heron’s skills and experience, particularly in online dispute resolution, made him an ideal candidate to take over the role.
Ms Dean said the scheme would remain a trusted voice in helping customers when things go wrong.