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MPs to present Support Workers with giant bank cheques representing their lost $20,644.45 pay equity wages – PSA

Source: PSA

Opposition MPs will present giant bank ‘cheques’ representing $20,644.45 in stolen pay equity wages to care and support at Parliament on Tuesday 1 July.
July 1 heralds pay increases for politicians while care and support workers mark three years to the day waiting for one. Their pay equity claim – now cancelled by the National-led Government – was initiated on 1 July 2022.
“The cheque represents the amount owed to these women from the care and support pay equity claim the Government cancelled on May 6,” says PSA Assistant Secretary Melissa Woolley.
“The figure reflects what should have been paid to workers under the claim, calculated using their pay equity rates.
“It's a life-changing amount of money the National-led Government have stolen from hardworking people – most of them women,” Woolley said.
What: Labour MP Jan Tinetti and Green MP Teanau Tuiono to handover symbolic giant cheques to care and support workers.
Where: Parliament – exact location TBC.
When: 2pm – 2:20pm, Tuesday 1 July.
Who: A care and support worker from each of the three unions – E tū, the Public Service Association, and the New Zealand Nurses Organisation.
How: The cheques will be handed over after short speeches from support workers, MP Jan Tinetti, and Melissa Ansell-Bridges – National Secretary of the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions.
PSA analysis shows support workers would be $20,644.45 better off if they’d been paid equity rates over the three years people in Government have failed to deliver their settlement.
Notes:
The analysis is based on the 21 per cent margin above the minimum wage that care and support workers received in the 2017 settlement. The settlement rates, or the minimum wage rate, whichever was higher has been compared with what the rate would have been if the 21 per cent margin had been maintained. The comparison is based on a 30-hour work week.
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 – A calm and cold start to the week, then rain, and wind to follow – MetService

Source: MetService

Covering period of Monday 30th June- Friday 4th July –  It’s a settled start to the week for much of the country, with fine conditions expected across most regions, a great opportunity for some outdoor school holiday activities, making the most of the dry weather.

However, conditions are expected to deteriorate by midweek. A developing low in the Tasman Sea is set to bring widespread rain to Aotearoa. Stay informed and keep an eye on the latest forecasts as the system approaches.

Today (Monday), a cold front is currently sweeping across the South Island, bringing scattered showers and patchy frost. As the day progresses, this system will gradually shift northwards, delivering showers to parts of the North Island by the afternoon. The southerly flow behind the front will continue to drive precipitation across the south, along with keeping the overnight quite chilly.

Tuesday through to Thursday will bring more settled conditions as the cold front exits the country, making way for a dominant high-pressure system. However, a developing low-pressure system over the Tasman Sea is forecast to bring wet and unsettled weather to the North Island on Wednesday, with rain spreading into the South Island as the system intensifies on Thursday. Periods of heavy rain and strong winds are likely, particularly in northern parts of the North Island, including flood-prone and exposed areas, where thunderstorms are also possible.  

MetService Meteorologist, Kgolofelo Dube adds “The possibility of a tornado associated with damaging winds should not be discounted, so make sure to keep an eye on MetService.com for updates.”

Heavy rain may also affect the upper South Island, potentially causing further impacts in already saturated areas such as Tasman and Nelson, where the risk of flooding and slips will be heightened.  

Temperatures will continue to hover below 10°C in many areas, with overnight lows near or below freezing. This will lead to widespread frosty conditions and snowfall in several regions. Most mountains are already blanketed in thick layers of snow, and the upcoming falls will add to this, creating ideal conditions for ski enthusiasts. However, it may also pose challenges for travel, particularly on snow-affected roads.

The week is expected to end on a more settled note for much of the country, as the rain bands associated with the low shift off to the far east.

Please keep up to date with the most current information from MetService at metservice.com
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Events – UNERASED Returns: Made in Palestine Exhibition Opens in Auckland

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

Following the success of UNERASED: The Palestinian Experience, the Palestine Forum of New Zealand is proud to present the second edition of the exhibition series — UNERASED: Made in Palestine.

Curated by acclaimed artists Emily Hartley-Skudder and Pinky Fang, with scent installation by Nathan Taare, this exhibition offers a powerful exploration of Palestinian identity, memory, and resistance through contemporary art.

Exhibition Details:

Venue: 250 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland
Dates: 28 June – 12 July
Opening Hours: 12pm–6pm | Wednesday to Sunday

UNERASED: Made in Palestine invites audiences to engage with the stories, symbols, and lived experiences of Palestine, centering narratives that refuse to be erased.

Maher Nazzal
Palestine Forum of New Zealand

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Health and Housing – Many rentals may still fall short as healthy homes deadline arrives

Source: Asthma and Respiratory Foundation

As winter grips the country, many Kiwis will go to sleep tonight in rental homes that may still be putting their health at risk.
From midnight tonight, all private residential landlords must ensure their properties fully comply with the Healthy Homes Standards – a legal requirement introduced in 2019 to make rental homes warmer, drier, and healthier. These standards introduced minimum standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress and drainage, and draught stopping in rental properties.
Yet despite having six years to prepare, questions remain about how many rental homes will truly be compliant come July 1.
The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ warns that without effective enforcement, these standards risk leaving tenants, especially those with respiratory conditions, exposed to cold, damp homes that threaten their health.
Foundation Medical Director Professor Bob Hancox says one thing we have learnt from research into housing and health in New Zealand is that many homes are too cold and too damp.
“Having a warm and dry house is very important for respiratory health, particularly for people with respiratory diseases such as asthma or COPD.
“Improving the quality of housing is one of the best ways to help people stay well through the winter.”
Currently, landlords can self-certify that their property meets the Healthy Homes Standards, and there is no requirement for an independent, physical inspection of the property.
“Implementing the healthy homes standard would go a long way to keep people out of hospital and GP clinics, but at the moment, we don’t know how well the standards are being applied,” Professor Hancox says.
The Foundation is renewing its call to the Government to require independent, accredited assessments of all rental homes to ensure that the Healthy Homes Standards are actually being met.
New Zealand Institute of Building Inspectors Chief Executive Neville Scott says the fact that landlords can self-certify is a loophole that undermines the intent of the law.
“We fully support the Foundation in their call to Government, as we see – all too often – cases where properties are signed off by landlords but clearly fall short of the standards.
“Without qualified, independent inspections, there's no way to guarantee consistency or integrity in the process,” he says.
“It's like letting drivers issue their own warrants of fitness.”
According to Tenancy Services NZ, more than 600,000 households rent in New Zealand, and research shows that rental stock is of poorer quality than owner-occupied homes.
A recent report by Stats NZ on housing in New Zealand revealed that almost 30 per cent of households that did not own their home experienced dampness at least some of the time. Those same households were more likely to experience visible mould over A4 size at least some of the time (22.9 per cent).
Dr Lucy Telfar-Barnard, public health researcher and member of the Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board, says the current state of many rental properties is both unacceptable and avoidable.
“We’re still seeing families living in mouldy, poorly ventilated homes that actively worsen chronic conditions like asthma.
“Effective enforcement of the healthy homes standards is essential for protecting our most vulnerable populations and reducing health inequities.”
The Foundation's call is part of its ongoing commitment to improve the health outcomes of those living with respiratory conditions in NZ.
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Health – Wai July launches: Tāne Māori encouraged to go alcohol-free this July

Source: Hapai Te Hauora

Hāpai Te Hauora has launched Wai July, a new kaupapa calling on tāne Māori to go alcohol-free for the month of July.
The challenge invites tāne to press pause on waipiro, reflect on how it shows up in their lives, and choose wai (water) instead, all while backing their bros and reclaiming their hauora.
“This isn’t just about going alcohol free. It’s about creating a supportive space for tāne to choose themselves, back their mates, and reflect on the role alcohol plays in their lives,” says Jessikha Makoare, General Manager at Hāpai Te Hauora.
Wai July was created in response to the ongoing impacts of alcohol harm in Māori communities. Māori men continue to be overrepresented in alcohol-related harm statistics, from long-term health conditions to whānau violence and mental distress.
This kaupapa offers a chance to reset, with support, accountability and brotherhood at the center.
Tāne can sign up as an individual or join as a group. All participants will receive support throughout the month, with fresh content, ambassador kōrero and free Wai July merch.
One of this year’s ambassadors, Chaz Brown (Ngāti Raukawa ki Wharepūhunga, Ngāti Apakura, Ngāti Maniapoto, Ngāti Kahu), is the owner of Wai Ora Sports Recovery & Wellness based in New Lynn, Tāmaki Makaurau.
“This is more than cutting out the drink. It’s about showing discipline, backing each other, and honouring our hauora across tinana, hinengaro and wairua,” says Brown.
“Whether you’re doing this to reset, show leadership, or just support the kaupapa, it’s another step in levelling up together.”
Throughout July, Chaz will also be hosting Sunday Morning Sessions in Tāmaki Makaurau to keep his community connected. These include run clubs, recovery sessions, mobility work and kōrero over coffee.
“No drink, just discipline. Whether you're here for the grind, the connection, or the clarity, this is our space to refocus and move with intention.”
Sign up now at: hapai.co.nz/wai-july
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Hong Kong: National Security Law analysis shows vast majority unjustly arrested

Source: Amnesty International

 

More than 80% of people convicted under Hong Kong’s National Security Law (NSL) have been wrongly criminalized and should never have been charged in the first place, according to new research by Amnesty International published on the fifth anniversary of the law being enacted.

 

The organization’s analysis of 255 individuals targeted under national security legislation in Hong Kong since 30 June 2020 also showed that bail was denied in almost 90% of cases where charges were brought, and that those denied bail were forced to spend an average of 11 months in detention before facing trial.

 

“Five years after the enactment of the National Security Law, our alarming findings show that the fears we raised about this law in 2020 have been realized. The Hong Kong government must stop using the pretext of ‘national security’ to punish legitimate expression,” Amnesty International’s China Director Sarah Brooks said.

 

“This draconian law, and the other national security legislation it spawned, has corroded key legal safeguards that once formed the foundation for protecting human rights and the rule of law in Hong Kong. The result has been a devastation of Hongkongers’ ability to express themselves without fear of arrest.”

 

Amnesty’s briefing paper analyses patterns in arrests, bail decisions and prosecutions under the NSL and other national security legislation. In particular, the research highlights three major concerns: the criminalization of the legitimate exercise of the human right to freedom of expression, the low bail grant rates in these cases, and the de facto long-term incarceration of most accused.

 

The analysis found that of the 78 concluded cases under the NSL at least 66 (84.6%) involved legitimate expression that should not have been criminalized according to international standards, with no evidence of violent conduct or incitement.

 

When concluded cases under Article 23 and pre-Article 23 “sedition” offences are also counted, at least 108 out of a total of 127 cases (85%) involved similarly legitimate forms of expression which were unjustly prosecuted. These cases fall well short of the high threshold required for criminalization under international standards.

 

Meanwhile, according to Amnesty’s data, the courts denied bail in 129 national security cases, or 89% of those in which individuals were charged.

 

Among the 129 cases where bail was denied, the average length of detention was 328 days. Fifty-two cases (40.3%) involved detentions lasting one year or more before trial or a guilty plea.

 

“In five years, the National Security Law has transformed Hong Kong from a city of tolerance and open debate into a city of repression and self-censorship. Our analysis shows that Hong Kong’s national security framework is not just a flagrant violation of international human rights standards on paper but that authorities misuse it to target opposition voices and foster an environment of fear,” Sarah Brooks said.

 

“This research demonstrates that the vast majority of those charged with national security offences have acted entirely within their rights. Meanwhile, prosecutors have continued to bring cases under this flawed national security architecture and appealed the rare acquittals awarded by courts. Other governments should step up and use their influence to urgently press the Hong Kong and Chinese authorities to repeal the law.

 

“In the interim, the Hong Kong government should stop applying national security legislation immediately. At the very least they need to reinstate the presumption of bail in favour of release pending trial. No one should be made to languish in jail simply for exercising their right to freedom of expression.”

 

Background

 

Since the imposition of the NSL on 30 June 2020, the human rights landscape in Hong Kong has deteriorated at an alarming pace. Civil society has been effectively dismantled, while long-standing rights — including the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association — have been severely curtailed.

 

Amnesty International’s analysis covered the cases of 255 individuals who, between 30 June 2020 and 31 May 2025, were arrested for and/or charged with any offences under the NSL; Part 1 and 2 of the city’s Crimes Ordinance that define the colonial-era offence of “sedition”; and the Article 23 law (also known as the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance), which replaced Part 1 and 2 of the Crimes Ordinance when it entered into force on 23 March 2024.

 

Amnesty International sent its briefing to the Hong Kong government, which dismissed the findings as a “distortion of the reality” and said the NSL “has restored the enjoyment of rights and freedoms” in Hong Kong.

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STEAM education and sports key recipients in Canterbury funding

Source: Rata Foundation

Rātā Foundation has announced $617,000 will go to community groups in Canterbury in its most recent funding round, focused on large and multi-year funding.
Tagata Moana Trust, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the advancement of Pacific peoples living in Aotearoa, will receive $110,000. The organisation’s focus is on using Pacific arts, language and culture to drive STEAM education and experiences for Pacific peoples of all ages. Sport in the region is also set to benefit, with $100,000 funding for Canterbury West Coast Sports Trust (Sport Canterbury). Other funding recipients include organisations from the arts, education, social services, and disability sectors.
Canterbury will also benefit from an additional $495,000 for multi-region funding (for organisations that bridge two or more of its funding regions).
This funding round is one of four additional rounds reserved for large and multi-year grants, in addition to the eight funding rounds for smaller grants each year.
Chief Executive Leighton Evans says: “At Rātā, our aim is to support communities so that nothing gets in the way of people being able to make the most of life. With responsive and proactive community investment, alongside strategic partnerships and strong relationships, Rātā can help achieve more, and we are seeing that through the long-term positive impact our partnership organisations are making in their respective communities.”
Rātā manages a pūtea (fund) of around $700 million, enabling an investment of around $25 million per annum into its funding regions of Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough and the Chatham Islands. Since its inception in 1988, Rātā has invested over $550 million through community investment programmes to empower people to thrive.
Canterbury funding:
Arts Foundation of New Zealand, $55,000
Canterbury West Coast Sports Trust (T/A Sport Canterbury), $110,000
Disabled Persons Assembly (New Zealand) Incorporated, $40,000
Neighbourhood Trust, $50,000
Oak Development Trust, $35,000
Petersgate Trust, $40,000
Social Service Council of the Diocese of Christchurch – Tenants Protection – Collaboration, $60,000
Tagata Moana Trust, $110,000
The Kind Foundation, $40,000
Woolston Development Project Incorporated, $40,000
WORD Christchurch, $37,000
Nelson funding:
Motueka High School, $56,799
Nelson Women's Centre Te Whare Āwhina Mō Ngā Wāhine Puawai Incorporated, $I35,000
Project De-Vine Trust, $135,000
Te Whare Mahana Trust Board, $41,000
Building project (multi-year): Whakatu Group Riding for the Disabled Incorporated, $120,000
Marlborough funding:
Marlborough Pacific Trust, $50,000
Marlborough District Council- Future of Work, $10,000
Building project (multi-year): Wairau Pa Marae (2020) Incorporated, $130,508
Multi-region funding:
English Language Partners New Zealand Trust, $50,000
NZ Family And Foster Care Federation Incorporated, $40,000
Talk Link Trust, $45,000
Tasman Regional Sports Trust (T/A Sport Tasman), $115,000
The Open Home Foundation of New Zealand, $65,000
Youthline Central South Island, $45,000
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Northland News – Nominations for Northland Regional Council open 04 July

Source: Northland Regional Council

People keen to stand for one of nine places on the Northland Regional Council at this year’s local body elections in October can get their nominations in from Friday 04 July.
Dale Ofsoske, the council’s Electoral Officer, says nominations open on Friday 04 July and close at noon on Friday 01 August 2025.
Mr Ofsoske says anyone aged 18 and over can stand for election provided they’re a New Zealand citizen and enrolled on the Parliamentary electoral roll.
“You must also be nominated by two electors whose names appear on the electoral roll within the respective constituency that a candidate is standing for.”
Mr Ofsoske warns against leaving the lodgement of nomination papers to the last minute.
“Should a nomination paper be lodged late on the morning nominations close, and be incorrectly completed or ineligible nominators are provided, there may be insufficient time to correct the situation and the nomination paper could be invalidated.”
Mr Ofsoske says in the regional council’s case seven general councillors will be elected from seven general constituencies (one from each) and two councillors elected from a region-wide Māori constituency (Te Raki).
The general constituencies are Far North, Coastal Central, Coastal South, Kaipara, Mid North, Whangārei Central and Bay of Islands-Whangaroa.
Mr Ofsoske says printed nomination forms and a candidate handbook will be available from 04 July from any regional council office, by phoning (0800) 002 004, from www.nrc.govt.nz or by downloading from esp.electionservices.co.nz/lge2025/NRC 
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Northland Regional Council News – 30 June 2025

Source: Northland Regional Council

NOMINATIONS FOR NRC OPEN 04 JULY
People keen to stand for one of nine places on the Northland Regional Council at this year’s local body elections in October can get their nominations in from Friday 04 July until noon on Friday 01 August 2025.
Anyone aged 18 and over can stand for election provided they’re a New Zealand citizen, enrolled on the Parliamentary electoral roll and are nominated by two electors whose names appear on the electoral roll within the constituency the candidate is standing for.
Printed nomination forms and a candidate handbook will be available from 04 July from any regional council office, by phoning (0800) 002 004, from www.nrc.govt.nz or by downloading from esp.electionservices.co.nz/lge2025/NRC
SECOND FEEDBACK PERIOD ON NAVIGATION SAFETY BYLAW
Northlanders now have a further chance to have their say on Northland Regional Council’s Navigation Safety Bylaw, which sets the rules for keeping people safe on the water.
After a first feedback period during May, the council is now running a second feedback period, recognising the need to provide more detail on key proposals and ensure there is sufficient time for people to have their say.
The provisions in the draft bylaw remain the same, with key proposals including a new requirement to carry two forms of communication on a vessel; amending the requirements for wearing a lifejacket; and removing a clause prohibiting wind-powered board sports in the Ruakākā and Waipū estuaries.
The feedback period runs until Monday 28 July. More detail can be found at www.nrc.govt.nz/bylawreview