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Advocacy – Dental Advocacy Group "Seeing Significant Unmet Need" on Dental in Nationwide Roadshow, Begins Second Part of National Tour

Source: Action Station

A dental advocacy group is reporting soaring unmet need for dental care as it begins the second part of a national roadshow on dental challenges in New Zealand.
Dental for All will travel to the Far North next week, alongside events in Auckland through the week, before travelling to Tauranga, Whakatāne, the East Coast, Gisborne, Napier, and Flaxmere.
The group has just completed a trip from Wellington to Rotorua, which included seven town hall discussions.
“What we've been seeing and hearing is significant unmet need among adults who are locked out of getting dental care,” says Hana Pilkinton-Ching, spokesperson for the Dental for All coalition.
The coalition includes Te Ao Mārama (the Māori Dental Association), dentists and oral health therapists, unions (including E tū, ASMS, and Workers FIRST Union), and poverty action groups.
“The adult dental system is in crisis, with costs continuing to rise, and during this prolonged cost of living crisis we want to see all political parties commit to bring dental into the public healthcare system to ease the pressure on families,” adds Pilkinton-Ching.
Dental for All is calling for free, universal, Te Tiriti o Waitangi-consistent dental. It has commissioned research showing that the existing dental system costs the country $2.5bn in lost productivity and $3.1bn in reduced quality of life, while it would cost $1-2bn to bring dental into the public healthcare system.
The group supports the establishment of an adult community dental service, which could consist of a network of community clinics with salaried dentists and oral health therapists, along with tino rangatiranga for Māori over oral health.
“Working in South Auckland, we’re witnessing a growing oral health crisis. It’s time our health system took urgent, equity-focused action that is grounded in accountability and community partnership and ensures everyone has access to the care they need,” says Chanae Ihimaera, Senior Lecturer/Kaiwhaako in Oral Health at Auckland University of Technology.
The second leg of the roadshow includes a free dental day at Auckland University of Technology's south campus on Sunday 7 September, involving 9 volunteer dentists and 4 volunteer oral health therapists.
The roadshow continues with a major event at the Auckland City Mission on Thursday 11 September, where City Missioner Helen Robinson will speak, as well as visits to marae, Māori oral health providers, and community venues.
  • More details on the major events on the second leg of the Dental for All roadshow (running 7-17 September 2025) are available here.
  • FrankAdvice's research, showing (on a conservative estimate, using the CBAx tool) that the current dental system is costing the country $2.5bn in lost productivity and $3.1bn in reduced quality of life, is available online here.
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Value of building work put in place: June 2025 quarter – Stats NZ information release


This email was sent by Stats NZ, 8 Willis Street, Wellington, CBD 6011, New Zealand to nz@enz.mil-osi.com


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Activist Sector – Protest this Saturday: No FBI cops, No US troops in Aotearoa From: Peace Action Wellington

Source: Peace Action Wellington

An alliance of Wellington groups will march from Midland Park to the US
Embassy on Saturday, 6 September at 1pm with a clear demand: No FBI cops
and no US troops stationed in Aotearoa NZ.

The Director of the USA’s Federal Bureau of Investigation recently
visited Aotearoa NZ, welcomed by New Zealand’s far-right government,
with plans to establish an FBI office here. At the same time, the New
Zealand Army announced the likelihood of American troops training
regularly on Kiwi soil.

“The FBI is a US domestic police force. It has no role in protecting
ordinary New Zealanders. Instead it has a very clear reputation as a
political police force targeting left wing activists,” said Valerie
Morse from Peace Action Wellington.

“We see this cooperation as the strengthening of authoritarianism of
both governments, and a threat to safety and community for all of us.
This isn’t just about NZ and US police and military working together.
This is really about the very deep and dangerous US influence on our
government that will pull us into a war – and will result in the
criminalisation of those who oppose it.”

The FBI Director said the establishment of this office “would counter
China's influence in the Pacific” – clearly indicating that this office
is considered a part of the USA’s Pacific strategy.

“We are deeply alarmed at the US push to war with China. This is not
just talk, but is in the planning stages within the Pentagon and Defence
House here in Wellington. The US is creating the conditions where war
with China is inevitable.”

“All of this is in the context of the US’s continued support of a
genocide of Palestinians in Gaza, a crackdown on protest and the New
Zealand government’s closed-door revision of anti-terror laws here which
may well tighten restrictions on solidarity protest.”

“We want to be really clear that we believe that it is US imperialism
that is driving global insecurity, genocide and massive increases in
weapons sales. The NZ government’s decision to side with the US against
our largest trading partner is a lose-lose strategy.”

“At the same time, anti-imperialism and anti-authoritarianism doesn’t
mean supporting one imperialism or authoritarian government over
another. We do not endorse Chinese military growth or its brutal
domestic actions.”

“We believe a different approach is not only possible, but desirable and
necessary. We have global challenges to face – and we need to do that
together, united by our common humanity and desire for all people to
live in dignity with the things they need. We do not believe that the
world’s only superpower should dictate the conditions for the planet’s
eight billion people.”

“We continue to operate under Te Kahu o Te Raukura, the cloak of peace
laid down by Mana Whenua. This rally will honour that kaupapa. We invite
all who value peace, justice and self-determination to join us.”

This event is jointly organised by Peace Action Wellington, Poneke
Anti-Fascist Coalition, People Against Prisons Aotearoa, the
International Socialist Organisation, and Te Tai Tētēkura.

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Federated Farmers – University’s inaction on Joy’s violent comments a disgrace

Source: Federated Farmers

Federated Farmers is slamming Victoria University of Wellington’s response to violent comments made by prominent academic Mike Joy, describing it as weak and shameful.
Karl Dean, Federated Farmers dairy chair, says a letter today from the university’s vice-chancellor Nic Smith lacks substance given the serious nature of the complaint.
“For a senior academic at Victoria University of Wellington to publicly insinuate anyone in New Zealand should be hanged is totally unacceptable.
“It’s extremely disappointing – and frankly surprising – that the vice-chancellor hasn’t taken disciplinary action against Dr Joy.
“By failing to do so, his response is little more than a slap on the wrist with the wettest of bus tickets, and is a tacit endorsement of Dr Joy’s atrocious comments.
“Yesterday our main concern was Dr Joy’s deplorable comments, but now we’re even more concerned about the university’s decision not to take action.”
Dean has swiftly written back to Nic Smith today, calling for a formal meeting to discuss the matter.
Dr Joy made the comments in a LinkedIn post last month, suggesting the dairy industry is currently putting babies (and adults) at risk with nitrate contamination of drinking/groundwater.
His proposed solution: “How about we bring back hanging for industry CEOs?”
Dean says Dr Joy’s apology today is clearly insincere.
“Yesterday he told Stuff he hadn’t gone too far with his comments about dairy leaders being hanged, and that he was comfortable with the way he had phrased it.
“But then, lo and behold, out comes the public apology today, completely at odds with what he was saying in the media only hours earlier.
“The public isn’t stupid – everyone knows full well that Dr Joy has issued his public apology today at the request of his employer, not because of any genuine remorse.
“On behalf of New Zealand farmers, I utterly reject this hollow apology.”
Dean says Joy’s extreme, violent and dangerous views are totally unacceptable from a well-known and senior academic.
“If one of Victoria University’s students made a similar comment calling for an academic or lecturer to be hanged, there would be swift and severe consequences.
“Similarly, if a dairy industry leader publicly made comments calling for an academic or environmental activist to be hanged, there would quite rightly be severe public outcry and condemnation.
“What we have here is a clear double-standard. The university should be deeply ashamed of this lack of action.”
In requesting a meeting with Smith, Dean said he’d like to discuss how Joy’s conduct aligns with the university’s Code of Conduct, and its Academic Freedom and Freedom of Expression policy.
“I’d also like to better understand what steps the university will be taking to ensure students from dairy farming backgrounds, or whose parents are dairy industry CEOs, feel safe on your campus.”
A copy of the letter has been sent to Hon. Shane Reti, Minister for Universities.  
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Education – Whitireia and WelTec students interning at prestigious World of WearableArt Show

Source: Whitireia and WelTec

Whitireia and WelTec hairdressing and makeup artistry ākonga (students) are set to play a hands-on role in one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most iconic events, the 2025 World of WearableArt (WOW) Show: RISE.
WOW has an internship programme designed to provide ākonga with tailored and diverse professional experience. For 2025, 12 level 4 makeup artistry and nine level 3 hairdressing ākonga from Whitireia and WelTec have been appointed for internships. These interns will work under the guidance of WOW’s Heads of Department in the lead-up to and during the world-renowned show.
During the internship, ākonga will join WOW’s backstage hair and makeup teams, creating performance-ready looks for dancers, models, aerialists and more. The fast-paced, large-scale production offers invaluable experience working to professional standards, collaborating with industry experts and contributing directly to a show seen by tens of thousands.
Ākonga are required to demonstrate a high level of commitment, motivation, professionalism and technical ability. For makeup, students submitted portfolio work; for hair, applicants completed a timed ‘WOW look’ to showcase both skill and speed.
Julie Vaughan, Programme Manager for Cosmetology at Whitireia and WelTec, says the internship reflects both the calibre of the students and the strength of the institution’s industry connections.
“WOW is one of the most significant creative events in Aotearoa New Zealand and is recognised internationally for its scale, artistry and innovation. For our ākonga to gain real-world experience backstage at such an event is extraordinary and will be a highlight of their training and career pathways.”
Annabel Brown, who is studying the New Zealand Certificate in Makeup Artistry, says the opportunity feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“Being part of WOW is an incredible chance to work alongside professionals at the very top of their field and to see how a world-class show comes together behind the scenes. I know the experience will push me to grow as an artist and give me confidence for my future career.”
Joining the students behind the scenes will be Whitireia and WelTec tutors Michelle (Shelly) McAuley and Amanda Kisona, who are both taking on key creative roles for the 2025 WOW Show. Shelly will take on the role of Hair Supervisor, directing the styling for all performers, while Amanda returns for her eighth year at WOW in the Makeup Artist team, bringing her expertise in makeup and special effects to the production. Together, they will work alongside WOW’s industry professionals and guide student interns as they help bring the performers’ looks to life.
Since its inception in 1987, World of WearableArt has grown into a globally celebrated event that combines art, fashion, performance, and spectacle. The 2025 World of WearableArt Show: RISE will run in Wellington from 18 September to 5 October, attracting some 60,000 people to experience the internationally acclaimed celebration of art, fashion, and performance.
For the students of Whitireia and WelTec, contributing behind the scenes to this internationally acclaimed event marks a unique step into the professional creative industries.
More information about studying Makeup Artistry and Hairdressing at Whitireia and WelTec
Gain hands-on experience and learn practical skills in skincare routines, maintenance, and both classic and trending makeup techniques. Learn to develop client consultation skills and product knowledge recommendations through an introduction to basic beauty services, as well as other key skills in communication, professionalism, and sales strategies.
Learn essential skills such as shampooing, applying treatments or colours under supervision, styling and reception duties. You’ll also be introduced to cutting. Develop experience working as a team member in our salon. Take the opportunity to work on productions and fashion events.
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Gaza Advocacy – Gemma New – don’t conduct in Tel Aviv! – PSNA

Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

 

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa is calling on the NZ Symphony Orchestra conductor, Gemma New to cancel her engagement with the Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra next January.

 

PSNA Co-Chair John Minto says New should know that going to conduct the IPO can only be seen as endorsement of Israeli genocide in Gaza.

 

“The ISO plays concerts with Israeli soldiers in full uniform and puts them on YouTube.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLjucRUyd4Y

 

“These soldiers are in a military which is conducting mass starvation and ethnic cleansing in Gaza.  There is no scope for neutrality, or nonsense slogans like ‘keep politics out of art.”

 

Minto says PSNA has written to New, but has received no reply.

 

“We’ve supplied her with details on the Israeli atrocities, even though she would have to be living under a rock to claim she doesn’t know about them.”

 

“But we have to give her the benefit of the doubt at the moment that she is not aware of the plea from Palestinian civil society for a Boycott, Divest and Sanction campaign against collaboration with Israel in all its forms.”

 

“Some leading artists, such as Kneecap, Lowkey and Roger Waters, are not only boycotting Israel, but they are actively campaigning to have governments sanction Israel, as the only effective means to achieve peace and justice for the Palestinian people.”

 

“No amounts of pleading, setting red lines or even recognition of Palestine are going to stop the Israeli war machine,” Minto says.

 

“We’ve noticed that some New on-line schedules don’t feature her Tel Aviv and Haifa performances.  That might mean she has cancelled, or to be less charitable, she is trying to keep her engagements secret. However she is still listed to perform here ”

 

“We’d love to hear from her, that she’s taken the principled action which Lorde took in 2017, and refused to play Tel Aviv.”

 

“If not, she, and by extension the NZ Symphony Orchestra, will always be forever tainted by supporting the worst atrocity of the 21st Century.”

 

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

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Time for urgent action on ACC culture problems – much needs to be fixed – PSA

Source: PSA

The PSA is urging ACC to settle its current industrial dispute if it’s serious about fixing long standing culture problems at the organisation following the release of a damning internal report.
The report identifies serious problems with a lack of trust – workers don’t trust current complaint processes should they have concerns.
The PSA says it’s also alarming that, ‘ACC’s policies, systems and procedures relating to inappropriate conduct and behaviour are not fully in line with public service good practice.’
“This is not good enough. Now is the time for urgent action, not just an apology to staff and it should start with making a fair offer to staff to settle the dispute over the current collective negotiations,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The review is a damning indictment of a long-standing failure of its senior leadership to hear the concerns of workers.
“It’s no surprise to the PSA and our members that ACC management is struggling to build a supportive culture that respects the needs of all workers and welcomes input from them.
“It should not have taken a review for ACC to treat staff with respect.
“The report only touches on a multitude of issues – now is the time for ACC to take its health and safety obligations seriously – that means working closely with staff and the PSA to ensure it builds a positive, safe and inclusive culture that encourages the voice of workers to be heard.
“Workers need to be empowered to do their best for a critical organisation that touches the lives of thousands of New Zealanders every day. We urge ACC CEO Megan Main to lead from the front to heal the wounds this report exposes.
“Members voted to strike in July because of a failure to bring a meaningful increase for poorly paid predominantly female workers to the table. Many staff are still not earning the living wage. This is all symptomatic of the deep-seated culture problems at ACC the report identifies.
“We hope in the light of this ACC takes a more constructive attitude to renewing the collective agreement and doing the right thing by staff.”
The PSA has sought facilitation over the dispute at the ERA and is awaiting ACC’s response.
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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Weather News – From northwest warmth to southwest chill – MetService

Source: MetService

Covering period of Thu 04 – Mon 08 September – West-northwest breezes and passing cloud for the final two days of Zespri AIMS games in Tauranga
Auckland starts off wet on Saturday but come kick off there’s just a risk of brief rain with chilly southwest winds
Father’s Day is a bit of a mixed bag; some rain spreads up the country with southwesterly winds
A blood moon is due in the western sky around 6am on Monday morning

MetService has issued a number of Severe Weather Forecasts for strong northwest winds and heavy rain as an active frontal system moves up the country while the working week winds down.

The most likely severe weather is about the Canterbury High Country and headwaters with Orange Warnings for northwest winds and heavy rain, but there’s several Watches for Heavy Rain and Strong winds around the country.

The heavy rain has kicked off for the west coast of the South Island today (Thursday) with a few thunderstorms making it on land around Fiordland and southern Westland. Western areas are most at risk of rain today but as we head into Friday the wet weather extends northward with Wellington seeing passing showers through the day and the main frontal rain band arriving at night.

Thunderstorms are forecast to mostly remain around southern and western parts of the South Island, however, some may sneak across the alps into the likes of Queenstown Lakes. The thunderstorms bring risk of hail, blustery winds and potential snow down to around 400m.

MetService meteorologist Lewis Ferris warns, “Much of the North Island will wake up to rain on Saturday but it will be tending drier as the front keeps on trucking away to the northeast. There’s not much reprieve though – a cool southwest change moves onto Southland Saturday evening and zips up the country. It might be breakfast in bed rather than a round of golf for Dad on Sunday.”

Northwest winds make for some warm temperatures in eastern areas today and tomorrow. These highs are short lived as the southwest winds remind us that spring is a time of yoyoing temperatures. Christchurch is going for 18°C on Friday and 11°C on Saturday.

A brief ridge of high pressure is forecast across the country on Monday morning so there’s a good chance for many to spot the blood moon.
 

Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:

This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!

Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:

When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!

Orange Warnings are about taking action:

When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.

Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action

Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.

Watches are about being alert:

When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
During a Watch: Stay alert

Outlooks are about looking ahead:

To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
Issued routinely once or twice a day
Recommendation: Plan.
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Business – Australia and NZ Leadership Forum concludes with firm commitment to a stronger trans-Tasman partnership

Source: BusinessNZ

The 2025 Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum (ANZLF) has concluded in Canberra with business and government leaders from both nations reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation and building a more resilient and prosperous trans-Tasman partnership.
Under the theme “Navigating a Turbulent World: Enhancing Trans-Tasman Prosperity, Security, and Resilience,” the Forum focused on concrete actions to address shared challenges in an increasingly complex geopolitical and economic landscape.
Discussions spanned four key plenary sessions, identifying a clear path forward:
  • Aligning for
Impact – Leaders discussed greater collaboration on workforce,
investment, and innovation to boost trans-Tasman productivity and
competitiveness.
  • Integrated Defence
Capability – Discussions focused on transforming defence industry
alignment into practical cooperation, strengthening joint capabilities and
supply chains.
  • Building a Seamless
Digital Economy – Delegates explored initiatives to harmonise data
regulations and invest in infrastructure to facilitate seamless digital
trade and embrace emerging technologies, such as AI, cyber and quantum.
  • Trans-Tasman Climate
Cooperation – The forum highlighted the need for coordinated
regulation and finance to unlock green economic growth and establish
consistent climate-related standards.
The 2025 ANZLF was attended by a number of senior government officials whose participation underscored the strong government-to-business partnership. Australian Ministers included Treasurer Dr Jim Chalmers and Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell. New Zealand Ministers included Finance Minister Nicola Willis, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts, and Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk, The day’s events concluded with a Leaders’ Dinner, where delegates were joined by the Prime Minister of Australia the Honourable Anthony Albanese.
“The Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum is more than just a discussion; it is a platform for action,” said Mr John Paitaridis, Australian Co-Chair of the ANZLF. “The robust dialogue and practical recommendations from today’s sessions will be crucial in strengthening our shared prosperity and security in a shifting global environment.”
“The outcomes of this forum demonstrate that when business and government work in lockstep, we can achieve more together than we can alone,” added Mr Greg Lowe, New Zealand Co-Chair of the ANZLF. “The commitment shown today gives me great confidence that we can turn this momentum into tangible progress for both our nations.”
About the Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum (ANZLF)
The ANZLF is the premier bilateral forum that brings together senior business and government leaders from Australia and New Zealand to advance opportunities for a more prosperous, secure, and resilient trans-Tasman partnership.
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Climate – This year’s winter snow ‘abysmal’ for many – Earth Sciences

Source: Earth Sciences New Zealand

Winter snowfall was well below average for much of the country, says Earth Sciences New Zealand.
Several ski fields were forced to close this season due to a lack of snow, leaving many ski enthusiasts disappointed.
Hydrological forecasting scientist Dr Jono Conway said it had been an abysmal year for some areas.
“Our high elevation weather stations tell us it’s been a mixed bag for our alpine regions. Some places saw near-average snowfall but what stands out is the number of low or record low total snowfall readings,” he said.
Snow plays a significant role in both national water flows and the economy. Snowmelt contributes up to 50% of winter inflows to major hydroelectricity lakes, large areas of the South Island use meltwater for irrigation in spring and early summer, and winter tourism relies heavily on snow; in 2019, there were about 1.7 million visitors to ski fields in New Zealand.
“Mountains in the north of the South Island have been particularly bare of snow this season. The Mahanga Range site in Tasman saw less than half its average winter snowfall, as did mid- to lower-elevation sites throughout the South Island. Crawford Knob and Murchison Mountains had their lowest winter snowfall totals on record, with 1.92m and 0.46m respectively.”
“At only 0.19m deep, as recorded on 1st September, the snow at Mahanga was at a third of the average depth for that date and the second lowest on record. Mt Larkins near Queenstown and Mueller Hut above Mt Cook Village recorded moderately low snowfall with 71 and 85% of average winter totals, respectively,” said Dr Conway.
The exception was Upper Rakaia in inland mid-Canterbury, where large snowfall events during June set up the season well and regular snowfall during July and August kept total winter snowfall around the long-term average.
Other areas that recorded near average snow depths on 1st September only did so because of a large amount of snowfall in the last few days of August.
“The lack of snow was due to predominately settled, dry conditions through much of July and August. Early-season storms in the northern half of the island also brought heavy rain rather than snow. This was especially felt in Nelson-Tasman, where damaging floods devastated the region back in June and July,” said Dr Conway.
Earth Sciences NZ’s Winter and August Climate Summaries are due out this Friday, covering the season’s weather in more detail.