Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

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Legislation – RMA reform at a crossroads for farmers – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

A dark cloud is shading Matt and Tory Simpson’s optimism that a new dawn for land use regulation is around the corner.
Like thousands of other farmers, the owners of Ranui Station in Canterbury were delighted to hear pledges from the Government that resource management reform would reduce red tape, and balance environmental protection with property rights.
“It’s hugely disappointing to find the reality falls short of the rhetoric,” says Matt, who’s co-chair of Federated Farmers High Country.
“The two new bills are riddled with flaws and the select committee now has a mammoth task ahead to get things back on track.”
For the Simpsons, and many other landowners and businesses, it’s far more than just a desire for less paperwork, bureaucracy, hearings and expensive resource consents.
“Livelihoods are at stake,” Matt says.
“We look after nature and want to develop this place so it’s in good shape and a going concern for the next generation.
“We have high hopes the new resource management laws will help us combat the Outstanding Natural Landscape overlay restrictions on more than half the station, and other clamps on our ability to diversify income streams,” he says.
Last December the Government released two new bills – the Planning Bill and the Natural Environment Bill – to replace the Resource Management Act (RMA).
Federated Farmers has lodged a comprehensive submission on the bills, re-stating strong support for overhaul of the RMA.
“We absolutely back the goals and principles agreed by Cabinet,” Feds RMA Reform spokesperson Mark Hooper says.
“Those include enabling primary sector growth, narrowing the scope of effects of the RMA, and greater use of national standards while reducing the need for resource consents.
“If you want that in less jargony terms – that means faster, better, more efficient processes and knocking on the head the trend of endless hearings, appeals and uncertainty.
“Unfortunately, somewhere in between the ambitions of Government MPs and drafting of the legislation, something has fallen over.”
A major concern is that, as currently written, instead of a farm plan replacing the need for a resource consent, a farm may need both.
“We see a risk of farmers facing more red tape under the Natural Environment Act than they presently do under the RMA,” Hooper says.
There are too many ambiguous, principle-based clauses in the two bills, which is likely to see continued expensive, time-consuming and litigious decision making, he says.
The environment bill fails to clearly rule greenhouse gas issues out of scope – despite these already being dealt with in other Acts – and the lack of a clear scope section and definition of effect also leaves the door open to intangible, hard-to-measure concepts such as the ‘mauri’ of water.
“Too much power is left in the hands of the Minister, under any future government, to impact the economy under National Policy Direction.
“And there’s still too much uncertainty over how farmers will access compensation for overlays and other restrictions on their property.
“We pushed hard for a risk-based approach to auditing and certification of farm plans but that’s also missing,” Hooper says.
Federated Farmers’ other concerns include the carry-over of aspects of outdated Water Conservation Orders from the RMA, lack of protection for stock drinking water, and inability to insure against inadvertent breaches of regulation.
Hooper says time pressure may be a reason for “too much drag and drop” of content from the RMA into the draft new legislation.
“The Government and officials worked hard last year to make a series of amendments to the existing RMA.
“These were important fixes that enabled farmers to get on with production.
“That took focus away from the two new bills, and perhaps in the back of their minds was the fact there would be a five-month long select committee process and chances to weed out flaws.”
But Hooper believes the select committee has a challenging task.
“Federated Farmers has already voiced its unwavering opposition to clauses in the Natural Environment Bill which enable the Minister to auction, tender, or levy water.
“Getting rid of these potential water taxes is probably quite easily handled with changes of wording.
“But for other parts, the bill is drafted holistically and it’s more like a spider’s web, with layer upon layer of clauses that are interactive with other clauses.
“It’s going to take a lot of effort to untangle it.”
Hooper says it’s vital the select committee works diligently, and that its members who represent the coalition Government stick up for the original goals of RMA reform: simplicity, efficiency, less cost and litigation.
“Quite frankly, they’re principles and goals that an elected representative of any political persuasion should defend.”
Notes:  You can find the Federated Farmers' submission on the Natural Environment Bill and Planning Bill here – https://www.fedfarm.org.nz/Web/Policy/Submission/2026/February/Submission-on-the-NEB-Bill-and-Planning-Bill.aspx  
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Tech – New Zealanders concerned about AI harm and impact on society, new research shows

Source: InternetNZ

InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa will launch new annual Internet Insights research on Monday, 2 March 2026.
The report provides insights into our attitudes towards the Internet and our online world. As we spend more of our lives online, this research helps us, as a country, better understand how we use the Internet and how we feel about it.
Key research insights include:
  • New Zealanders' use of AI and the concerns about its impact.
  • How much time we spend online for personal use (outside of work), and what we do with that time.
  • Which social media apps we are using.
  • Specific concerns we have about our lives being increasingly spent online.
Early access to research:
If you’d like to read the report before it goes live from 2 March, we’re happy to release it to you under embargo (2 March, 6am) and arrange any interviews or quotes you might need.
InternetNZ Chief Executive Vivien Maidaborn is available for interviews on Sunday, with some limited availability on Thursday and Friday.
About the research:
Internet Insights is an annual research report commissioned by InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa. The 2025 research was carried out by Verian, with interviews conducted between November 25 and December 8, 2025.
The sample size was 1003 and consisted of New Zealanders over the age of 18 sourced using online consumer panels. Results have a margin of error of +/- 3.1 per cent.
About InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa
InternetNZ | Ipurangi Aotearoa is the home and guardian of the .nz domain. We're not government-funded – we're an independent, not-for-profit organisation that operates .nz for the benefit of all New Zealanders, reinvesting domain revenue back into the community. We provide grants, help to fund other organisations, and advocate for an accessible and safe Internet that benefits everyone in Aotearoa. Find out more on our website: https://internetnz.nz/about-internetnz/
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Health – Growing demand shows addictions sector needs more investment

Source: NZ Drug Foundation

An increase in people accessing specialist addiction treatment highlights the hard work the sector is doing despite a longstanding lack of funding, the NZ Drug Foundation says.

A new monitoring report released by Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission today shows an increase in people accessing specialist addiction treatment, with over 3,000 more people accessing these services in 2024/25 compared to the previous year.

Drug Foundation Executive Director Sarah Helm says the increase is positive, but more investment is needed to meet the need in the community.

“It’s remarkable to see the heroic work that the sector is doing despite being underfunded for decades,” Helm says.

“We can’t solve issues like the big increase in methamphetamine harm without a step change in investment in addiction support. It’s desperately needed.”

Helm points out that despite the increase in people accessing services, the number of declined referrals to specialist addiction services is also increasing.

“The increase in declined referrals is concerning and it’s important we understand what is driving this.”

The report also shows more New Zealanders are accessing drug harm reduction information and support online, highlighting the importance of platforms like The Level.

The number of people accessing substance use support online has more than doubled in the last five years, from an estimated 73,326 people in 2020/21 to 197,494 in 2024/25.

Of that number, 174,818 people accessed information via The Level, the NZ Drug Foundation’s online harm reduction platform, in 2024/25.

Helm says the significant growth demonstrates that people who use drugs want to know how they can stay safer.

“Getting trustworthy information and advice in front of people early, no matter where they sit on the spectrum of drug use, is a no-brainer. It saves lives, prevents people from developing more severe issues, and saves the health system money.”

Helm says that if people can access information and support early enough, many substance use issues can be addressed at home or with whānau support, and don’t necessarily need intensive specialist support.

“We’ve focused hard on improving the self-help sections of The Level, with lots more planned this year, so it’s pleasing to see the growth in people accessing this crucial information.”

Notes:

Find the latest report from Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission on their website: https://www.mhwc.govt.nz/news-and-resources/mental-health-and-addiction-service-monitoring-2026-downloads
The Level combines research with real-life experiences from people who use drugs in New Zealand and provides relevant, trustworthy, and easy to understand support and advice. It is operated by the NZ Drug Foundation.

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Tech Security – What to Do After a Data Breach

Source: Source: Botica Butler Raudon Partners

A data breach is when an unauthorised third-party accesses sensitive or confidential information. Think: login details, NHI and IRD numbers, or financial information. Breaches can stem from cyberattacks, like phishing or malware, but also from insider threats or system flaws.

If your data was exposed through a breach the risks are largely the same. If only your email or phone number are involved, the impact may be limited to spam, scams, or unwanted contact. But if financial details or NHI numbers are exposed, you could face stolen funds, credit damage, and even identity theft.

1. Confirm if your data was compromised

When a company suffers a data breach, they’re legally required to notify affected customers. But even without an official notice, unusual account activity may signal trouble. That’s why it’s important to check proactively for signs of a data breach instead of waiting for confirmation.

·       Check your accounts: Look for weird transactions, password changes, altered settings, or new login alerts.

·       Review your credit reports: Scan your credit reports for unfamiliar accounts or inquiries.

·       Watch for suspicious login alerts.

·       Try a data breach checker: Plug your information into a breach detection tool to see if your data has surfaced on the dark web – the hidden part of the internet where leaked data is often posted or sold.

2. Determine what data was exposed

Different kinds of data exposure lead to different risks.

·       Personally identifiable information (PII): Exposure of PII, like your full name, address, or birth date can make you a more vulnerable scam target.

·       NHI number: This is a significant security concern, as an NHI number can be exploited for identity theft, insurance claims, and phishing scams.

·       IRD number: This is among the most serious breaches, since IRD number can be used for identity theft and fraud.

·       Email address: If your email appears in a data breach, you’re likely to see an uptick in spam and phishing messages.

·       Passwords: If your password or account credentials are leaked, you are at heightened risk of account takeovers.

·       Credit card details: If your credit card details are exposed in a data breach, you’re at risk of credit card fraud.

3. Secure vulnerable accounts

After a data breach, attackers may try to break into your accounts or lock you out of them.

·       Change your passwords.

·       Set up multi-factor authentication (MFA).

·       Remove unfamiliar devices.

4. Freeze or lock your credit

If highly sensitive information like your IRD number is exposed in a data breach, criminals could try to open new lines of credit in your name. Placing a credit freeze on your credit reports prevents lenders from accessing them.

5. Set up fraud alerts

Fraud alerts give lenders a heads-up that you may be a victim of fraud when they run your credit. If you were involved in a breach or suspect you may have been, request the standard one-year fraud alert. If you actually fell victim to identity theft, look into an extended fraud alert, which protects you for seven years.

6. Monitor your reports

Continue to monitor your reports closely for at least a year after a data breach – potentially longer if you notice suspicious activity.

·       Bank statements: Review transactions for unauthorised or unfamiliar charges.

·       Credit reports: Look for unfamiliar accounts or credit checks that could signal fraud.

7. Warn people you know

If your accounts or contact details were exposed in a data breach, attackers may try to use that information to scam your friends, family, or coworkers. To reduce the risk, give your contacts a heads-up so they know to be cautious with unusual messages. Remind them not to click suspicious links, download unexpected attachments, or share sensitive information without confirming it’s really from you. A quick warning can go a long way.

How to protect yourself from future data breaches

No one can fully guarantee protection from a data breach, but good security habits can reduce your risk and limit the damage if one occurs.The key is to protect your accounts, share less information, and stay alert for scams:

·       Use multiple email accounts.

·       Strengthen your passwords: Create unique, complex passwords for every account.

·       Look out for signs of scams.

·       Verify before you click.

·       Limit information sharing.

·       Sign up for identity theft protection.

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Economy – Consultation opens on keeping cash local – Reserve Bank

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

25 February 2026 – We are asking the public for feedback on a proposal that banks must provide a minimum level of cash services so people, businesses, and community groups can withdraw cash, deposit cash, and get change free-of-charge close to where they live.

Public consultation on this cash services standard opens 25 February 2026 for 6 weeks, closing Friday 10 April 2026.

We propose that people living in urban areas should face only a walkable distance to withdraw cash, deposit cash or get change, while people living rurally should only face a reasonable driving distance. People should not have to face unreasonable wait times either and cash services should be free of charge. We want to know if New Zealanders agree with how we are approaching this.

“We believe banks must provide cash services to customers, free-of-charge, because cash is an essential part of a customer's relationship with their bank. People put money into their bank accounts and expect to be able to convert it easily, quickly and free, into cash and vice versa,” says Ian Woolford, Director of Money and Cash.

“The public expect banks to provide cash services to them, but banks have been steadily reducing points of access for their customers to get cash, bank cash or get change, especially in rural areas. We want this to change, and we are open as to how. This consultation proposes one way to make this happen.

“District maps show what this proposal could mean for each of the 66 territorial authorities (excluding the Chatham Islands). It assumes banks share cash infrastructure, as they already do at the 5 remaining 'New Zealand Bankers' Association regional banking hubs'.

“We estimate the benefits of our proposal far outweigh the costs, as giving the public an appropriate level of cash services provides benefits to New Zealand of $2.83 billion per annum, at an additional annual cost to banks of around $104 million. This cost is negligible when compared to the more than $10 billion annual pre-tax profits earned together by the banking sector,” says Mr Woolford.

Many countries have or are introducing similar new laws to ensure adequate access to cash services, including the UK, Ireland, and the Netherlands.

“Cash benefits society, as it is used for economic, social and cultural reasons, and as the steward of cash we are focussed on ensuring the cash system is healthy and available,” says Mr Woolford.

Research shows 72% of small businesses would be adversely affected if cash was unavailable as a means of payment. Our own survey tells us that over 80% of adults use cash sometimes, over half (56%) store cash and 8% rely on cash as their sole means of payment.

More information

Learn more about the public consultation: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=99d5bdd1e6&e=f3c68946f8
Download our consultation materials on the CitizenSpace website: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=8545551296&e=f3c68946f8
Cards and convenience reign supreme in Aotearoa | research by Xero: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=d05c229929&e=f3c68946f8
2023 cash use survey (PDF, 1 MB): https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=b0dc7aff96&e=f3c68946f8
In this report, we asked respondents how many times they had used cash to pay for everyday items in the past 7 days. We used the results to measure and estimate the proportion of people who use cash at least occasionally.

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WEL Networks extends partnership with Downer and Ventia

Source: WEL Networks

WEL Networks has extended its partnership with Tier 1 contractors Downer and Ventia for a further three years, reinforcing our commitment to delivering safe, reliable and efficient services for our customers.
From 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2029, Downer and Ventia will continue to play a central role in strengthening and supporting WEL’s network. Their teams deliver the full spectrum of work required to keep our infrastructure operating safely and reliably, from day-to-day customer projects through to major upgrades and rapid response during storms and faults.
“Strong partnerships are essential to maintaining a resilient network. Downer and Ventia share our focus on safety, quality and customer service. This extension reflects the confidence we have in their ability to support our community,” says Dan Coffey, WEL Networks General Manager Works Programme.
Over the past three years, WEL has seen a steady lift in Customer Initiated Works (CIW) satisfaction scores thanks to our Tier 1 delivery partners, whose strong communication, high-quality service and timely delivery across CIW and wider programmes have enhanced the customer experience and supported safe, efficient delivery.
This renewed partnership builds on the successful delivery of two major infrastructure projects in 2025 – WEL’s Te Uku and Kohia substations – led by Ventia and Downer respectively.
The Te Uku Substation upgrade has been successfully delivered by Ventia, replacing ageing outdoor equipment with a modern indoor system. The upgraded substation now provides a safer, more resilient and more reliable electricity supply for the Te Uku and Raglan communities, supporting current demand and enabling future regional growth.
“We are proud to continue supporting WEL Networks in delivering reliable, essential electricity services to communities across the Waikato. Our ongoing partnership is built on a shared commitment to safety, quality and trusted service, and we look forward to strengthening the strong foundations already in place,” says Karen Boyes, Project Director North, Ventia New Zealand.
The Kohia Substation has been successfully delivered by Downer, who oversaw the construction and commissioning of the new site to support strong growth across the Horotiu and Pukete industrial areas, as well as new residential development in Horotiu. The substation is now supplying customers with a more resilient and reliable electricity supply while providing capacity for future expansion.
“Downer is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with WEL Networks, strengthening the essential energy infrastructure that supports communities across the Waikato. Enabling our communities to thrive is at the heart of what we do. This extension reinforces our commitment to keeping our people safe, building strong relationships, and delivering high-quality, innovative solutions for our customers,” says John Batchelor, Downer General Manager Energy.
Together, these projects mark significant milestones in strengthening the Waikato’s electricity infrastructure. WEL’s continued investment in network upgrades, supported by delivery partners Ventia and Downer, underscores our commitment to providing a safe, secure and reliable power supply for both current and future customers.
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Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the Department of Conservation renew their Service Agreement

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand and the Department of Conservation (DOC) have signed a new three-year Operational Service Agreement.
The Agreement covers how the two organisations work together. It includes the fire control services provided by DOC including services such as advice, research, and personnel for deployments. It covers the designated services provided by Fire and Emergency including training of DOC personnel, wildfire risk analysis, data sharing and advice, and fire investigation reports.
Fire and Emergency Chief Executive and National Commander Kerry Gregory says the Agreement reflects the shared commitment to protecting Aotearoa New Zealand’s public conservation land, including fire prevention, research, and raising public awareness.
“It refreshes and strengthens our already strong partnership, with clearer roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities for both organisations,” he says.
Department of Conservation Director-General Penny Nelson says the renewed Agreement shows the strong ongoing relationship between DOC and Fire and Emergency, which is vital to protect special places and unique threatened species.
“Wildfire is a significant threat to biodiversity values, tracks and huts, and public safety, and the risk is only increasing due to climate change. Recent examples like the Tongariro National Park fire show how devastating wildfire can be and the importance of an effective, coordinated response,” Penny Nelson says.
“The refreshed Agreement gives us greater clarity and confidence in how we work together,and strengthens our ability to protect our people, our places, and our taonga.”
Kerry Gregory says the Agreement recognises that fire is a growing risk driven by climate change,and it acknowledges the shared focus on prevention, mitigation, and reducing risk.
“The Agreement also recognises the importance of working with Māori as tangata whenua and reinforces both agencies’ commitments to Te Tiriti o Waitangi,” Kerry Gregory says.
“Ngā mihi nui to the people in the joint project group involved in the review.”
The associated Schedules (which detail the supporting operational, service specification, and financial processes) will be jointly developed and finalised within 12 months of signing of the Operational Services Agreement. The existing 2021 Schedules will be retained in the interim. 
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Advocacy – Gaza-based Humanitarian organisations petition Israeli High Court as closure deadline approaches – Oxfam

Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

The clock is ticking on a large part of the humanitarian response sustaining civilians in the occupied Palestinian territory.
Thirty-seven international aid organisations have been ordered by Israeli authorities to cease operations in the occupied Palestinian territory by the end of February under revised Israeli registration rules. With efforts to force closures imminent, a group of leading humanitarian organisations have taken the unprecedented step of jointly petitioning the Israeli High Court to suspend the measures before irreparable harm is done to civilians who rely on their assistance.
On 30 December 2025, the affected organisations were formally notified that their Israeli registrations would expire the following day and that they would have 60 days to wind down activities in Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. The notification letter stated that the decision could only be overturned if organisations completed the full registration process, with which they cannot legally or ethically comply.
Efforts to force closures could begin as early as 28 February 2026. The effect would be immediate, extending well beyond individual organisations to the wider humanitarian system. In Gaza, families remain dependent on external assistance amid continuing restrictions on aid entry and renewed strikes in densely populated areas. In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, military incursions, demolitions, displacement, settlement expansion and settler violence are driving rising humanitarian needs.
Palestinian Authority registration provides the lawful basis for international NGOs to operate in Palestinian territory. Under the Fourth Geneva Convention, an occupying power must facilitate relief for civilians under its control. Conditioning humanitarian presence on sweeping administrative demands, including the transfer of comprehensive national staff lists, alongside vague and politicised grounds for denial, risks disrupting life-saving services and eroding the obligation to ensure civilian welfare under occupation.
The demand to transfer personal data raises acute security and legal risks. It exposes national staff to potential retaliation and undermines established data protection and confidentiality safeguards. For European organisations in particular, compliance would create serious legal and contractual liabilities. More broadly, such requirements set a precedent that could chill principled humanitarian engagement in highly politicised contexts.
International NGOs have proposed practical alternatives, including independent sanctions screening and donor-audited vetting systems, that preserve both compliance and staff protection without disclosing personal data. No substantive response has been provided. Enforcement has meanwhile begun in practice, including blocked supplies and denial of visas and access for foreign staff.
Alongside UN agencies and Palestinian partners, international NGOs support or implement the delivery of more than half of all food assistance in Gaza, 60 per cent of field hospitals’ operations, nearly three quarters of shelter and non-food item activities, all inpatient treatment for children suffering severe acute malnutrition and 30 per cent of emergency education services, in addition to funding over half of explosive hazard clearance.
The petition seeks an urgent Interim Injunction to suspend expiry of registrations and prevent further enforcement pending judicial review. The petitioning organisations contend that these administrative measures constitute an effort to curtail established humanitarian operations in a manner incompatible with the obligations of an occupying power under international humanitarian law.
Governments must act urgently to prevent implementation of these measures and to ensure that humanitarian relief remains principled, independent, and unhindered. If these measures take effect, aid will be impeded not because needs have eased, but because it has been rendered optional, conditional, or politicised. At a moment when civilians depend on assistance to survive, that outcome would carry immediate and irreversible human consequences.
Petitioners and supporting organizations
1. All We Can
2. ActionAid Australia
3. Alianza Por La Solidaridad
4. Association of International Development Agencies (AIDA)
5. Bystanders No More
6. CADUS e.V.
7. Choose Love
8. Christian Aid
9. Churches for Middle East Peace
10. DanChurchAid
11. Danish Refugee Council
12. Diakonia, Sweden
13. Humanity & Inclusion – Handicap International
14. medico international
15. Middle East Children's Alliance
16. Movimiento por la Paz, Desarme y Libertad – MPDL
17. Muslim Aid
18. Nonviolent Peaceforce
19. Norwegian Church Aid
20. Norwegian Refugee Council
21. Oxfam
22. Pax Christi International
23. Première Urgence Internationale (PUI)
24. Pro Peace
25. Refugees International
26. Start Network
27. Tearfund
28. Terre des hommes Italy
29. Terre des hommes Lausanne (Tdh)
30. United Against Inhumanity
31. Weltfriedensdienst e.V. (WFD; World Peace Service)
Notes:
Executive Summary – Joint Petition against the Inter-Ministerial Team:
1. Introduction
This Petition is filed by 17 leading international humanitarian aid organizations (INGOs) and the Association of International Development Agencies (AIDA) which form the critical infrastructure for providing medical services, food, and water to the civilian population in the West Bank and Gaza. The Petitioners challenge the Respondents' December 2025 decision, which orders the “termination of their activities” due to their refusal to provide personal contact details (Nominal Lists) of thousands of local employees. The Petition presents an unprecedented “legal deadlock” in which the demands of the Israeli administration directly contradict international privacy laws and the fundamental principles of humanitarian neutrality.
2. Urgent Request for an Interim Injunction
The Petitioners seek an interim Injunction to preserve the status quo and prevent the expiration of their registration, the deportation of foreign staff and cessation of all activities until a final ruling is reached. It is argued that the “Balance of Convenience” clearly favors the Petitioners: while the Respondents will suffer no harm by maintaining the current situation, the cessation of the organizations' activities will lead to a humanitarian collapse and irreparable harm to the right to life and health of hundreds of thousands of individuals in need.
3. Legal Arguments
A. Breach of the Inter-Ministerial Team's Basic Obligations as an Administrative Authority
The Respondents' conduct is tainted by administrative laches (undue delay) and a lack of good faith. The Respondents delayed their response to registration requests for many months while creating a false representation that the applications were under review. These draconian requirements were imposed without granting a Right to be Heard and without meaningful dialogue, violating the heightened duty of fairness applicable to the authority.
B. The Requirement for Employees' Personal Details (Nominal Lists)
– B.1 GDPR Regulation and the “Adequacy” Issue: The Petitioners, who are bound by European law, demonstrate that transferring employee data from the Occupied Palestinian Territory (oPt) to Israeli security authorities constitutes a criminal and administrative offense. Since the European Union's “Adequacy” decision regarding Israel does not apply to the territories, the organizations are exposed to heavy fines and tort claims. The Petition relies on the Schrems II precedent of the Court of Justice of the European Union, which prohibits data transfer to jurisdictions lacking independent judicial oversight over security agencies.
– B.2 The Demand for Employee Details and Violation of International Law: The requirement to provide personal phone numbers and contact details of the entire staff violates the principle of “Data Minimization” and endangers the personal safety of the employees. Turning humanitarian organizations into an information-gathering arm for a party to the conflict stands in total contradiction to the principle of neutrality.
C. The Decision for a Sweeping Cessation of Activity is Void Due to Illegality
– C.1 Decision Lacking Authority (Ultra Vires): The Team’s government mandate is limited to technical registration and visas. Assuming the authority to order the termination of an international organization's activities is an extreme deviation from authority without an explicit legal source.
– C.2 Deviation from Israel’s Sovereignty (Oslo Accords): Pursuant to the Civil Annex of the Oslo Accords, the authority to register and manage NGOs operating in Palestinian Authority territories was transferred to the Palestinians. Israel lacks the authority to order the closure of these entities.
D. Regulation Article 8.4 – Voidness due to Lack of Authority and Breach of International LawThe Petitioners challenge the article in the regulation that allows for the suspension of registration based on vague “security considerations” without a duty of specification or reasoning.
– D.1 Applicability of Article 63 of the Fourth Geneva Convention: This article imposes an obligation on the Occupying Power to allow relief societies to continue their work. The Petition relies on expert legal opinions establishing that this provision fully applies to International NGOs (INGOs) performing essential humanitarian functions.
E. Extreme Unreasonableness and Lack of Proportionality
The decision fails the “Proportionality Stricto Sensu” test: the limited administrative-security benefit of collecting phone numbers is dwarfed by the catastrophic human damage caused by withholding aid from the population. The Respondents refused to consider “less restrictive means,” such as cross-referencing names against public global terror lists.
F. Violation of Israel’s Obligations to Facilitate Humanitarian Aid
As an Occupying Power, Israel bears positive obligations (Articles 55, 56, and 59 of the Convention) to ensure the supply of food and medical services. Arbitrary and bureaucratic interference with organizations fulfilling these duties constitutes a blatant violation of international law and the directives of the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
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Energy Sector – Meridian rebounds off back of near-record inflows

Source: Meridian Energy

25 February 2026 – Meridian Energy has reported operating cash flows of $336 million for the six months ending 31 December 2025. This compares to $50 million in the same period last year when the company’s financial performance was impacted by the cost of hedge and demand response contracts required to support customers and electricity security through the record drought of Winter 2024.

The company recorded a net profit after tax (NPAT) of $227 million, compared to a net loss after tax of $121 million for the first half of FY25. EBITDAF was $506 million, up from $257 million, while underlying NPAT increased from -$5 million to $143 million. The latter two are both non-GAAP measures.

Meridian’s results for 1H FY26 were fuelled by a $264m (59%) year-on-year increase in energy margin – the result of record wind generation and the second-best lake inflows on record. These conditions put downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices, with daily spot prices averaging $84 per MWh over the six months to 31 December and falling to an average of $12 per MWh in December. The company also achieved record retail sales volumes, up 12% on last year.

Meridian Chief Executive Mike Roan says this is a strong result and a welcome change from the hit the company took last year after committing significant funds to help support Aotearoa’s security of supply through Winter 2024.

“A core part of our business is to manage weather variability, so we were pleased Mother Nature came to the party in the first half of the year. These conditions helped deliver a strong financial result and a period of extremely low wholesale prices. This is a sign of a market that continues to function well.”

“At the same time, the job is not done. That’s why we continue to work hard to improve the electricity system and what it offers consumers. Over the past six months we have advanced our development pipeline, enhanced the performance of existing assets, maintained our pursuit of contingent storage and taken steps towards making electricity more affordable for Kiwi homes and businesses. These remain our top priorities and this strong result will help us deliver them more quickly,” says Mike Roan.

The Meridian Board has declared an interim ordinary dividend of 6.40 cents per share, up from 6.15 cents per share in the first half of FY25. The dividend reinvestment plan will apply to this interim dividend at a 2% discount.

Half-Year Highlights

Meridian has continued to move at pace towards its goal of having seven projects in construction ready between 2023 and 2030. With Harapaki Wind Farm and the Ruakākā BESS completed and operational, construction is progressing on the Ruakākā and Te Rahui solar farms. Ruakākā is on schedule for first power in November and the first stage of Te Rahui – a 50/50 joint venture with Nova, who is leading construction – is scheduled for final power by mid-2027.

The company is targeting final investment decisions on three other projects this calendar year: Mt Munro Wind Farm in the Wairarapa and the repowering of the Te Rere Hau Wind Farm in the Manawatū and the second stage of the Te Rahui solar farm. Meridian also expects four consenting outcomes by mid-2026: Swannanoa Solar (200 MW), Waikato Solar (100 MW), Manawatu Solar (100 MW) and the reconsenting of the Waitaki Power Scheme.

“Meridian is committed to doing its share of the heavy lifting required to give Kiwis cheaper power and fuel the growth of our economy. Our team has done an excellent job of building momentum in our pipeline. We now hold 8.0 TWh of secured development options and a further 7.3 TWh of advanced prospects – more than a third of New Zealand’s current electricity demand.”

“While we have made significant progress in advancing generation developments to offset the reduction of domestic gas, we need more firming capacity to restore the energy balance that New Zealand has historically enjoyed. Meridian has adjusted elements of our strategy to reflect and prioritise this, such as exploring hydro development options for the first time in decades.”

Meridian achieved record retail sales volumes, boosted by the acquisition of Flick customers last August, increasing its residential market share from 17.5% to 19.5%. The migration of residential and commercial customers to Meridian’s new Kraken platform has also made progress. More than 75,000 customers have now been migrated and the company is on track to complete all mass-market customer migrations in the middle of the calendar year and the remaining corporate and industrial customer accounts by late 2026.

“New Zealand has a highly competitive retail electricity market, and it’s vital that we invest in technology that will enable us to innovate for all customers. People want more affordable energy and an increasing range of options for how and when they use it. We’re already ramping up the rollout of our Smart Hot Water product, which gives discounts to customers for allowing us to control when their cylinder heats so we can take pressure off the grid in peak periods. Our competitive solar buyback rates and EV plans are also helping Kiwis reduce their overall energy bills,” says Mike Roan.

The Generation team has excelled in the first half of FY26, maximising plant availability to enable the company to manage high inflows and wind speeds while also carrying out significant maintenance projects. These include a rotor replacement at Ōhau C and multiple large-scale projects at Manapōuri. We’re lucky to have a world class generation team who are passionate about the role our assets play in supporting Kiwi homes and businesses. The team is making increasing use of AI and other technologies to maximise plant availability. This is something we believe has huge potential.”

Meridian has received further endorsement of its sustainability performance. In February, the company secured its best result to date in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment, achieving an S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2026 distinction – Top 10% score globally in our sector, with a score of 83 out of 100. The CSA is used to determine Dow Jones Best-in-Class Indices inclusion, due in April 2026.  “It’s currently our tenth successive year in this Index and the placement is hard won. The Index provides customers, communities and investors independent validation that Meridian meets globally relevant environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards right across our business operations. Ultimately that translates into good outcomes for people and planet and is a core element of Meridian’s competitive advantage,” says Mike Roan.

MERIDIAN FINANCIAL RESULTS FOR SIX MONTHS ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2025

Segment Earnings Statement ($m)

2025

2024

Energy margin

708

444

Other revenue

24

26

Hosting expense

(1)

(2)

Energy transmission expense

(45)

(37)

Electricity metering expenses

(27)

(26)

Employee and other operating expenses

(153)

(148)

EBITDAF

506

257

Depreciation and amortisation

(261)

(225)

Asset related adjustments

(3)

(8)

Unrealised changes in fair value of energy hedges

124

(143)

Net finance costs

(45)

(38)

Net change in fair value of treasury hedges

(4)

(11)

Net profit before tax

317

(168)

Income tax expense

(90)

47

Net profit after tax

227

(121)

 

Underlying net profit after tax

2025

2024

Net profit after tax

227

(121)

Underlying adjustments

Hedging instruments

Unrealised changes in fair value of energy hedges

(124)

143

Net change in fair value of treasury hedges

4

11

Premiums paid on electricity options net of interest

(3)

(4)

Assets

Asset related adjustments

3

8

Total adjustments before tax

(120)

158

Taxation

Tax effect of above adjustments

36

(42)

Underlying net profit after tax

143

(5)


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Energy Sector – Ara Ake reopens National Flex Discovery Fund with renewed focus on digital connectivity

Source: Ara Ake

Ara Ake, New Zealand’s energy innovation centre, has reopened its National Flex Discovery Fund after a successful first round in 2025, continuing its support for smarter ways to manage electricity demand.
The Fund helps flexibility service providers connect devices such as batteries, electric vehicles and smart appliances to open-access platforms, so their energy-saving and grid-supporting potential can be seen and used by potential buyers. Much of the flexibility from these devices remains underutilised because it has not yet been made visible or connected to existing systems.
“There’s a huge amount of untapped flexibility already sitting in homes and businesses. By making that energy visible and usable, we can strengthen New Zealand’s energy resilience in a more affordable and sustainable way,” says Sophie Braggins, acting Chief Executive at Ara Ake.
The first round of the Fund enabled nine new connections to flexibility platforms and supported five projects to improve system performance and the reliability of flexibility services. Funding recipients included SUPA Energy, Lastmyle, Octopus Energy, PowerHub, EWI Energy, Cortexo, Counties Energy, Gridsmart, Ecotricity, Evnex, Simply Energy, and Flex-Able.
“With this support, Flex-Able has been able to make our assets discoverable through the Flexviz platform, bringing visibility to New Zealand’s wider energy ecosystem. Our technology optimises thermal storage like hot water and refrigeration, shifting energy use, reducing grid demand and saving money,” says Josh Benjamin, General Manager at Flex-Able. “The connection to the Flexviz platform positions our systems to fully engage as the country moves toward a mature flexibility market. It’s exciting to be part of the shift to a more resilient, lower-emissions grid.”
This round has a renewed focus on digital tools and software that make it easier for flexible energy resources to become visible and to work together seamlessly on open, shared systems. Applications for the reopened Fund are now open and close on 31 March 2026. A webinar will be held for potential applicants. 
For more details on eligibility, how to apply and sign up to the webinar, visit: www.araake.co.nz/project/ara-ake-national-flex-discovery-fund