|
|
|
|
Tourism satellite account: Year ended March 2025 – Stats NZ information release
Utilities – Improving billing a win for electricity consumers
Source: Utilities Disputes
Utilities Disputes, the independent disputes resolution service, is welcoming today’s decision by the Electricity Authority Te Mana Hiko on improvements to electricity billing, especially the limiting of back bills.
The change to back bills, which Utilities Disputes has been advocating for, will ensure there is greater consistency amongst electricity retailers, and will bring New Zealand into line with international best practice.
“This is a significant reform and fixes a big gap in consumer protection,” said Utilities Disputes Commissioner Neil Mallon.
“Back bills, sometimes covering years of accumulated charges, can cause enormous financial shock and distress for households and businesses alike. It shouldn’t be up to retailers to decide how far back to go.”
The Electricity Authority will limit retailers going back more than six months. A retailer charges back bills or catch-up bills when there have been faults in meter readings and other issues, which are generally not the fault of the customer. Often bills are large dating back to a year, even longer, before the fault has been detected.
“Today’s decision is welcome as it sets a clear, fair limit and gives consumers and retailers much greater certainty.
“We also submitted for retailers to have standardised billing information so consumers can easily find the info they need and welcome that as part of these changes which will be in place by 30 October 2026”.
Utilities Disputes is the free and independent resolution service for electricity, gas, telecommunications, and water complaints.
In the past year, Utilities Disputes considered 183 deadlocked complaints about back bills, making up 12 percent of all deadlocked energy complaints, those where the retailer and consumer have not been able to agree on a solution. The average value of all back bills complained about was $5,130, with residential back bills averaging $2,290 and commercial back bills averaging $18,280. Twenty percent of complaints involved back bills covering more than 14 months of usage, with the average value in that category reaching $9,760.
Utilities Disputes data shows a significant inconsistency in how retailers have approached back-billing, with some going back 14 months, others much longer, and in one case as far as 72 months. Consumers are often unaware that their bills have been based on estimates, leaving them blindsided when a large catch-up bill arrives. In some cases, retailers have then attempted to direct debit the entire amount in a single transaction.
“We have seen cases where businesses have been hit with back bills of $75,000 or more with the retailer attempting to debit the full amount from a customer’s account in one go without any warning or discussion. That is simply not acceptable. The consumer has little to no control over the errors that cause these bills, so it is right that the law now sets a clear limit on how far back retailers can go,” Neil Mallon said.
The reform will also create a more level playing field across the industry. Some retailers had already voluntarily limited their back-billing timeframes in response to the concerns of Utilities. Putting this into the Electricity Industry Participation Code means all retailers are held to the same standard.
New Zealand has lagged comparable markets on this issue. Victoria limits back-billing to four months, New South Wales to nine months, and the United Kingdom to 12 months.
“Six months is a significant reduction, but it can still mean a substantial bill for some customers. We encourage retailers to work proactively with them well before a back bill is issued, and to offer flexible payment plans where large amounts are involved. The goal here is ensuring customers are treated fairly throughout the process,” Neil Mallon said.
Economy – Singapore credit and charge card payments to grow by 9.2% in 2026, forecasts GlobalData
Source: GlobalData
Singapore’s credit and charge card payments market is projected to grow by 9.2% to reach SGD116.8 billion ($88.4 billion) in 2026. This growth is being driven by a confluence of factors including widespread card acceptance, a near-100% banked population, and increasing adoption of contactless cards, according to GlobalData, a leading intelligence and productivity platform.
GlobalData’s Payment Cards Analytics reveals that the credit and charge card payment value in Singapore registered an estimated growth rate of 7.6% in 2025, to reach SGD107 billion ($80.9 billion), driven by the rise in consumer spending.
Poornima Chinta, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While debit cards also enjoy strong usage, especially in everyday transactions, credit and charge cards have pulled ahead through superior value-added benefits, instalment options, cashback, and rewards programs. Regulatory backing, high public awareness of payment cards, robust merchant acceptance, and infrastructural enhancements including broader contactless card penetration are all reinforcing their lead.”
Rewards, discounts, and flexible payment schemes play a key role in driving credit and charge card usage in Singapore. Banks such as UOB offer instalment plans for online purchases over three, six, 12 or 24-month periods with 0% interest at partner merchants, while Citibank’s Citi SMRT card delivers up to 5% cashback on purchases in stores and online.
A well-developed POS infrastructure is also supporting the rise of credit and charge cards. Singapore boasts one of the highest number of POS terminals per million inhabitants in the Asia-Pacific region, which stood at 62,551 in 2025, significantly higher compared to some of its peers such as Malaysia (29,093), Hong Kong (27,992), and Thailand (13,017).
Regulatory and policy developments are also enhancing the environment for credit and charge card payments. Initiatives such as the Productivity Solutions Grant support SMEs with subsidized POS installations (up to 50% funding from April 2023), increasing merchant acceptance.
Chinta concludes: “Credit and charge card payments in Singapore are poised for steady growth over the next five years, underpinned by the expanding e-commerce adoption, a well-developed payment infrastructure, attractive rewards and instalment offers, and robust regulatory support. The credit and charge card market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% between 2025 and 2029 to reach SGD144.2 billion ($109.1 billion) in 2029.”
Notes
Quotes provided by Poornima Chinta, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData
Information is based on GlobalData’s Payment Cards Analytics
About GlobalData
GlobalData operates an intelligence platform that empowers leaders to act decisively in a world of complexity and change. By uniting proprietary data, human expertise, and purpose-built AI into a single, connected platform, we help organizations see what’s coming, move faster, and lead with confidence. Our solutions are used by over 5,000 organizations across the world’s largest industries, delivering tailored intelligence that supports strategic planning, innovation, risk management, and sustainable growth.
Local News – Porirua lightboxes to show off new art
Source: Porirua City Council
The lightboxes in Porirua’s CBD will be showcasing new works this year.
The call has gone out for curators and artists to put forward their work for the lightboxes, which provide a unique opportunity to exhibit outside the usual gallery environment. In Porirua’s Te Manawa, the three 3-metre tall lightboxes, made of steel and glass, first installed in 2022, run from Hagley St through to Ferry Place.
Artist Sherridan Kanavatoa, whose work Don’t Touch My Hair was placed in one of the lightboxes in 2023, says the opportunity for her work to be in such a public place has been special for her.
“Having the opportunity to show a body of work in my hometown has been like a love letter to home and to pursuing a creative career,” she says.
“Porirua is full of creative innovators, so I can’t wait to see whose work is installed next.”
Pātaka Director Ana Sciascia says showing off promising artists like Sherridan is why the lightboxes were so prominently placed.
“They make art accessible to everyone in their daily lives. It’s been wonderful having Sherridan’s work exhibited, she has such an exciting future.”
The deadline for proposals for 2026/27 installations close 27 March and should include:
-Your proposed exhibition concept and themes, including how the work to be exhibited will look
-Images, including 3-4 of the artworks mocked up in situ. This is important so we can understand how the artwork will look once in place
-How the art will work with the site and be relevant to the audience
-Information on involved curator(s) and artist(s), including CVs
-Any relevant images of previous work by the artist.
If you wish to discuss your proposal further, please contact the curatorial team at Pātaka.
Health – New leaders appointed to expand radiology access across New Zealand
Source: RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group (the owner of Auckland Radiology, Bay Radiology and Pacific Radiology)
RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group (the owner of Auckland Radiology, Bay Radiology and Pacific Radiology) has appointed two new executive leaders to help expand access to diagnostic imaging across Aotearoa. The company operates more than 70 clinics nationwide.
RHCNZ CEO, Steve Carden, says the appointments strengthen leadership at a critical time, with demand for medical imaging continuing to rise.
“As imaging demand grows, we’re investing in the two areas that make the biggest difference for patients: strong partnerships across the health system and a highly supported workforce. These appointments help us continue improving access to timely imaging and delivering consistent, high-quality care across the country.”
Nic Johnson has been appointed Chief Commercial Officer, responsible for driving partnerships across the health sector and supporting long-term growth. His focus includes expanding clinic access, deepening engagement with referrers, and strengthening relationships with key funders to meet growing demand for timely imaging.
Nic brings more than 15 years’ experience in New Zealand’s health sector, including leadership roles at ACC, Southern Cross Insurance and New Zealand Health Group. “My focus is on making it easier for people to get the imaging care they need, with shorter wait times and more services available closer to home. When we work closely with partners across the health system, patients benefit through a smoother, more connected experience. I’m proud to support improvements that help communities across Aotearoa access timely, high-quality care,” says Nic.
Nicola Simpson has been appointed Chief People Officer, after an extensive executive career at TVNZ, Fletcher Building and Icebreaker. Her remit includes organisational and leadership development, talent, communications, and health and safety. She will play a key role in supporting a strong, high-performing radiology team across the national network. “Our people are at the heart of every patient experience. To ensure our patients receive the best care and attention, our teams need to feel valued and equipped to do their best work. I’m excited to work with our leaders to keep enhancing our ability to provide a service that New Zealanders can trust,” says Nicola.
About RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group RHCNZ Medical Imaging Group is New Zealand’s largest private radiology provider, delivering over 35% of the country’s radiology services. With over 180 specialist radiologists and more than 1300 staff working across a network of over 70 clinics nationwide, RHCNZ operates under three trusted brands – Auckland Radiology Group, Bay Radiology, and Pacific Radiology Group. Our mission is to improve health outcomes for all New Zealanders through the delivery of world-class radiology. RHCNZ stands for Radiology Holding Company New Zealand.
Aviation Sector – Airways NZ announces FY26 interim results
Source: Airways New Zealand
Airways New Zealand has today announced its interim results for the half year ending 31 December 2025, reporting strong safety and operational performance alongside a stable financial result.
Airways safely managed 243,785 flight movements across the airspace it controls during the period, with no Category A serious air proximity events attributable to Airways and no WorkSafe notifiable safety events involving its people.
The air navigation services provider recorded a net operating profit after tax of $12.2 million for the half year. The financial result reflects lower expenditure for the period, with operating costs reduced through lower employee related, equipment, travel and corporate expenses. Capital expenditure was also below budget, primarily due to timing delays across several major programmes. These timing shifts are expected to ease as key milestones are reached early in 2026, bringing spend back in line with budget.
Airways Chair Darin Cusack says performance over the reporting period demonstrates continued progress against long-term strategic priorities.
“Safety remains at the centre of everything we do and our performance over the last six months is a testament to the professionalism of our people and the strength of our safety systems.
“We are pleased to report a stable financial result supported by prudent cost management. These foundations position us well as we continue investing in the capabilities needed for a resilient, future ready aviation system,” he says.
Alongside strong operational performance, Airways continued to advance the ‘build’ phase of its 10‑year Safe Skies Today and Tomorrow strategy, Airways CEO James Young says.
Key initiatives underway include the development of a remote aerodrome flight information service for Milford Aerodrome, the rollout of enhanced tower surveillance capability, and a clean slate review of managed airspace architecture to leverage modern surveillance and air traffic management technologies.
“We are making strong progress across our future services programme and broader strategic initiatives. These include enhancements to system resilience, modernisation of our airspace architecture, and continued development of our people and technology capabilities,” Mr Young says.
Collaboration with industry partners and government agencies continues to be central to this work, ensuring we can meet the evolving needs of all airspace users.”
Airways International Limited (AIL), the Group’s commercial subsidiary, also advanced its growth strategy during the period, including strengthened partnerships and new multi‑year agreements for training and simulation services.
The report is available to read here: https://www.airways.co.nz/assets/Uploads/Airways-New-Zealand-Interim-Report-December-2025.pdf
Climate News – Earth Sciences New Zealand Seasonal Climate Outlook March to May 2026
Source: Earth Sciences New Zealand
Earth Sciences New Zealand's Seasonal Climate Outlook for Autumn 2026:
Highlights:
- Seasonal air temperatures for March-May 2026 are most likely to be above average for the north and west of the North Island, near average for the east of the North Island and the north and east of the South Island, and near or above average for the west of the South Island.
- Rainfall totals for March-May are most likely to be above normal in the north and east of the North Island. Near normal or above normal rainfall is forecast for the west of the North Island and east of the South Island, while near normal rainfall is expected in the north of the South Island. Below normal rainfall is most likely for the west of the South Island.
- There is an elevated risk of tropical-influenced weather systems bringing significant rainfall to parts of the North Island, especially at intervals in March and April.
Animal welfare alliance calls for Government to establish an independent Commissioner for Animals
Source: SAFE For Animals
An alliance of 21 animal protection organisations is delivering a petition to parliament at midday today, calling for the establishment of an independent Commissioner for Animals. Representatives from the Commissioner for Animals Alliance will present the petition, signed by more than 31,000 people, to Green Party animal welfare spokesperson Steve Abel on the Parliament forecourt.
SAFE chief executive officer Debra Ashton says independent oversight is urgently needed to address the current failings within the animal welfare system.
“Our animal welfare system is broken and animals are suffering as a result. Independent representation for animals at parliamentary level would support the Government’s commitment to the Animal Welfare Act and lead to significantly improved outcomes for animals.”
“The current system lacks enforcement and is poorly resourced” says Ashton. “Animals are being kept and raised in ways that do not align with the obligations set out under our animal welfare legislation and animals are suffering as a result. On top of that, we have charities up and down the country doing their absolute best on minimal resources. There is a serious risk here of New Zealand falling behind the rest of the world and it is time the Government took animal welfare seriously.”
Following the release of the New Zealand Animal Law Association’s December 2025 report, A Commissioner for Animals in New Zealand, the alliance reaffirmed its longstanding call for urgent, independent representation for animals. Members say an independent commissioner at parliamentary level would help address the systemic conflicts of interest embedded in the animal welfare system, where independent oversight is urgently needed to improve transparency, accountability, and overall effectiveness.
“Farmed animal welfare regulation in New Zealand is currently shaped to a significant extent by the very industries profiting from the use of animals, rather than being driven by animal’s welfare needs, existing legal protections, and society’s expectations. These systemic failures demand transparent and meaningful reform” says Ashton.
Members of the Commissioner for Animals Alliance work across the spectrum of animal welfare; from animals used on farms, in entertainment, in the wild and in laboratories, to those who reside in our own backyards. Alliance members include: Animals Aotearoa, Animal Evac, Animal Save NZ, Australian Alliance for Animals, Chained Dog Awareness, Community Cat Coalition, Companion Animals NZ, Goat Welfare NZ, Greenpeace Aotearoa, Greyhound Protection League NZ, HUHA, Māui & Hector’s Dolphins Defenders, New Zealand Animal Law Association, NZAVS, Orca Research Trust, SAFE, Wellington Rabbit Rescue, Whale Rescue, World Animal Protection, Vegan FTA, and Voiceless.
Recent polling undertaken by SAFE and Verian indicates 98% of New Zealanders believe it is important to protect animals from cruelty and neglect, with 85% of people agreeing decisions on animal welfare should be made by an independent body. This polling also reveals that only 39% believe the Government is currently doing a good job enforcing the Animal Welfare Act.
“New Zealanders care about animals and their wellbeing, and this is evidenced by strong public support for genuine change to our failing animal welfare system” says Ashton.
By offering a simple, positive solution, the alliance says an independent commissioner would act solely in the interests of animals – free from bias and industry influence – ensuring laws, policies, and enforcement genuinely uphold the Animal Welfare Act.
” We need oversight and accountability in the form of a commissioner to create a system New Zealanders can be proud of.”
SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
We're creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
University Research – When will the price be right for green hydrogen? – UoA
Source: University of Auckland – UoA
New modelling suggests green hydrogen will play a very limited role in cutting New Zealand's industrial emissions before 2050.
Green hydrogen could help cut New Zealand's industrial emissions, but University of Auckland modelling suggests it's unlikely to make a dent by 2050, with electrification doing most of the heavy lifting.
This is mainly due to costs, infrastructure, policy and behavioural factors, according to research led by Business School masters student Geordie Reid.
“New Zealand has committed to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050,” he says. “One of the toughest elements of this commitment is decarbonising industrial process heat; the coal- and gas-fired heat used to produce things like milk powder, steel and cement.”
It's in this area that green hydrogen can play a role, albeit a limited one, according to Reid and the co-authors.
Under realistic assumptions, says Reid, green hydrogen doesn't emerge as a cost-effective option.
“However, if technologies rapidly develop and become more cost-competitive relative to alternatives, such as electrification, our results show a shift towards green hydrogen for supplying high-temperature process heat.”
Even then, the role of green hydrogen would be limited according to the modelling, potentially supplying about 12 percent of industrial process heat energy by 2050 in the most optimistic scenario.
The researchers point out that because green hydrogen is expensive, it becomes more attractive when carbon prices are higher, renewable electricity is cheaper, and hydrogen technology costs decline. In those scenarios, they say hydrogen can play a complementary role in helping New Zealand reach net zero emissions. “But in most other cases, electrification is still the key.”
Co-author and Business School research fellow Selena Sheng says, compared to direct electrification, hydrogen technologies exhibit lower overall efficiency due to energy losses occurring at multiple stages across production, storage, transport, and end use.
“There are three main ways to bring green hydrogen costs down in the future. Firstly, we've got to have cheaper renewables, possibly through increasing wind and solar power.”
The second avenue, says Dr Sheng, is to develop more affordable methods for producing green hydrogen through a process called electrolysis. This can be achieved by scaling up manufacturing, improving efficiency, reducing reliance on rare, costly materials, and sourcing lower-cost renewable electricity.
“Third, we need to achieve greater economies of scale in production; larger projects will further reduce costs.”
Adding to this, energy economist Professor Basil Sharp says the modelling helps clarify what needs to change for hydrogen to grow into a meaningful part of the energy system.
“Green hydrogen is like the new kid on the block in terms of technology, so the unit costs are high relative to other forms of hydrogen.
“Practically, what governments can do is remove the barriers to adoption. One of the barriers early on was the absence of industrial standards regarding the transportation of hydrogen. Providing appropriate industry standards creates room for growth.”
Co-author and senior economics lecturer Le Wen points out that New Zealand's high share of renewable electricity gives it an advantage in producing green hydrogen.
“Green hydrogen is 'green' because it's produced using energy from renewables. New Zealand is well placed in terms of green hydrogen because more than 80 percent of our electricity is already renewable, but cutting national emissions also means tackling industry, which still relies heavily on coal and gas for process heat.”
Dr Wen says that if New Zealand invests in and scales up its green hydrogen production, the country could become a leader in genuinely low-emissions hydrogen.
“It may not solve everything on its own, but it could give the country a strong new export opportunity.”