ISSN: 2230-6986
November 2011
Bulletin Aotearoa is a free monthly news digest produced by Rural Women New Zealand. Our aim in producing this bulletin is to help build community capacity by circulating timely and relevant information, so people in rural and other communities are able to have their say on issues and changes that may affect them. Our grateful thanks go to our sponsors who so generously support us to do this. Bulletin Aotearoa may be copied in full or individual items reproduced, providing the source is acknowledged. Paddy & Craig Bulletin Aotearoa Editors Bulletin Aotearoa is brought to you with the help of the following sponsor partners:
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Contents Consultation General Election: Biggest Consultation of All ............... 4 The Referendum: Choose Your Voting System ........... 4 Voting Systems on Offer ........................................... 4 Farm Gate Sales of Raw Milk ....................................... 5 Lotsa Bills to Comment on ............................................ 6 Improving Services for Very Sick Children ................... 7 Aged Care Workers & EEO: Inquiry ............................. 7 Ultrafast Broadband Builders: Reporting Proposals ..... 7 MAF Consultations ....................................................... 8 LINZ Consultations ....................................................... 8 Southern Blue Tuna Fishery Consultation .................... 8 Environmental Protection Authority Consultations ....... 9 DOC Consultations ....................................................... 9 Food Standards Consultation ....................................... 9 NZ Historic Places Trust Consultations ...................... 10 Standards NZ Consultations ....................................... 10 Consultation Reminders ............................................. 10 Rural Rural? No Cell Phone? Read On … ........................... 11 Rural Property Sales: Update ..................................... 11 Commodity Prices Fall Again...................................... 12 Where NZ’s Wood is Going ........................................ 12 DOC & Self-resetting Possum Traps: Update ............ 12 New Farm Drum Recycling Programme ..................... 12 Animal Health Board Annual Reports ......................... 12 Update from Rural Women NZ ................................... 13 Environment Climate Science Breakthoughs: 2009-2010 ............... 13 All About Bovine TB… ................................................ 13 … & Annual Report on 1080: EPA.............................. 14 Game Animal Council Bill introduced ......................... 14 Vote for Your Favourite Bird ....................................... 14 Cleaning Contaminated Land: National Standard ...... 14 Tourism New Rules for Adventure Tourism … ......................... 15 ...& New Adventure Aviation Rules ............................. 15 September Visitor Numbers Rise… ............................ 15 Short & Longer-term Migration Picture ....................... 15 Tourism Spending: March 2011 Year ......................... 16 Queenstown Makes Lonely Planet’s Top Ten ............ 16 Health Under-sixes: Free After-hours Care Coming .............. 16 ACC Now In Surplus ................................................... 17 More People Using Pharmacists’ Advice .................... 17 Warfarin: Pharmacist Testing Benefits Patients ......... 17 New Alcohol/Drug Programmes ................................. 17 Bowel Cancer Screening: Four-Year Trial… .............. 18 …Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: Report… ........ 18 1 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
… & Research into Cancers/Palliative Care ............... 19 Drinking Water Subsidies for Small Communities ...... 19 We’re Drinking Less Milk ............................................ 19 Mental Health Commission’s “Recovery” Report ........ 19 What is the Recovery Model? ................................. 19 Anxiety and Stress Calls to Kidsline ........................... 20 Child Abuse Awareness Day ...................................... 20 Eating Well: Older People ........................................... 20 Children’s Soft Toys: Dealing to Dust Mites ............... 21 Latest ACC Injury & Claim Stats ................................. 21 Abortion Statistics 2010 .............................................. 21 New Otago Ethnic Women’s Support Service ............ 21 Developing Countries’ Access to Medications ............ 22 World Tuberculosis Declining ..................................... 22 Education/Training Is Your School Getting Fast Broadband? ................... 22 More Social Workers in Schools ................................. 23 ERO Report on Service Academies ........................... 23 Degrees Worth More to Men....................................... 23 Hong Kong/NZ Education Agreement ........................ 23 Employment Wages Grow … ........................................................... 24 … but, More People Unemployed ............................... 24 Skilled Job Vacancies Drop in September.................. 24 Labour Costs Rise ...................................................... 24 NZ Workers on the Move ............................................ 25 Canterbury Women in Trades Network ...................... 25 New Trade Union Formed........................................... 25 What Makes Great Staff Members Outstanding ......... 25 Top Office Pet Peeves ................................................ 26 Housing/Building Building Industry’s Economic Potential: Report .......... 27 Govt Support for Housing on Maori land: Report ....... 27 Social Housing Funding Available .............................. 27 More Houses Sold, But Prices Steady ........................ 28 New Home Approvals Continue to Rise ..................... 28 Guidelines: Environmental Management Systems ..... 28 Faulty Building Liability: Law Commission Review ..... 29 Weathertight Homes Resolution Service Claims ........ 29 Transport & Travel Award for Christchurch International Airport… ........... 29 … and One for Wellington Airport ............................... 30 Justice/The Law Bail Laws: Big Changes Coming ................................ 30 Changes to Human Rights Commission? ................... 30 Review: Human Rights & Prisons… ........................... 31
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
… & Two New Prisons Bills ........................................ 31 Prosecution Services: Review Report ........................ 32 A Big Laundry Bill ....................................................... 32 Parliament/Elections Predicting Election Results: iPredict ........................... 32 Public Service/Local Authorities Delivering Social Services: Trials ............................... 33 Local Authority Elections: New Bill ............................. 33 Not-For-Profits Multi-Year Lottery Community Grants Coming… ....... 34 … & 2012/13 Lottery Closing Dates: Changes ........... 34 Community Groups’ Emergency Procedures ............. 34 Recognising Community Leaders ............................... 35 Business NZ Business Snapshot: Mixed Picture ....................... 35 NZ Trade Growth to 2025 ........................................... 36 Exports Value Down: “Big Picture” Still Positive ......... 36 Companies & Limited Partnerships Bill… ................... 36 …& “Hard-core Cartel Behaviour” Bill ......................... 37 Doing Business in NZ: Report .................................... 37 Connecting Entrepreneurs with Businesses ............... 37 How ASEAN Views NZ’s Place in Asia… ................... 37 … & Knowing the Neighbours..................................... 38 Third NZ/Chinese Agreement: Chinese Taipei ........... 38 NZ Inc India Strategy .................................................. 38 NZ-South Africa Trade Potential: Study ..................... 38 Business-NGO Partnership Tackling Abuse............... 38 A Different Kind of Corporation in California............... 39 Money Matters Major Changes to Credit Reporting… ........................ 39 … & Credit Reporting: Consumers Rights .................. 40 Latest Growth Estimates from Treasury ..................... 40 Consumers Cautious Heading into Christmas............ 40 Consumers Price Index Review … ............................. 41 …CPI: September 2011 Quarter… ............................. 41 … & 50 Years of Food ................................................ 41 Vegetable Prices Fall in September ........................... 42 Electronic Card Transactions: September 2011 ......... 42 Fewer NZ Business Insolvencies, but… ..................... 42 Government Super Fund Grows ................................. 42 Lost Property Insurance Claims: AA ........................... 42 Overseas Investment: Latest Information ................... 43 Earthquake Levies to Treble ....................................... 43 New Financial Markets Conduct Bill ........................... 43 Finance Companies in Receivership: Asset Management ............................................................... 44 DPB Rule Change ...................................................... 44 Canterbury’s Economic Health ................................... 44
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Internet & ICT Broadband: Faster, More, Easier Access ................... 44 Buying Goods Using Mobiles is Made Safer .............. 45 Telecom Separates ..................................................... 45 NZ Children’s Television in 2012 ................................ 45 Research into Reality TV ............................................ 46 Fifty Years of Television in NZ… ................................ 46 … Where Have all the TVs Gone? ............................. 46 A Handful of Sites ................................................... 46 Treaty Matters New Home for Our Treaty? ......................................... 48 Te Kohanga Reo Trust: Urgent Treaty Claim ............. 48 Whanganui River: Record of Understanding .............. 48 Oruaiti/Point Dorset: New Managers, New Name ...... 49 Arts, Culture & Media Arts & Culture on TV in 2012 ...................................... 49 NZ-related British Colonies Information Online .......... 49 NZ’s Best Designs… ................................................... 50 …& The Booker Prize Goes to… ................................ 50 Rural Women NZ Journalism Award Winner .............. 50 CNZ Pacific Arts Committee: Nominations Sought .... 50 Balancing Maori & Western Knowledge ..................... 50 UNESCO’s New Artist of Peace ................................. 50 Fish & Ships Report Sick Fish to MAF ............................................. 51 Science & Technology Marsden Fund Funding ............................................... 51 NZ Wave Power Project: Funding Boost .................... 51 Low Vitamin B12 May Affect Thinking ........................ 52 Ancient Art Studio Unearthed ..................................... 52 Big-Brained Birds Benefit from Political Change ........ 52 General A Typical Summer Likely ............................................ 52 October 2011: Wet and Cloudy .................................. 53 New Zealand General Social Survey: 2010… ............ 53 … & Our Quality of Life in 2011: Average................... 54 Human Development: UN Report 2011 ...................... 54 The Gender Gap: Global Report 2011........................ 54 Royal Commission’s Interim Earthquake Report ........ 54 Speeding up Urban Planning in Christchurch ............. 55 Defence Amendment Bill ............................................ 55 Immigration NZ: Storing Non-NZers’ Photos…........... 55 … & Overstayers Being Scammed: Safe to Tell ......... 55 Privacy Commissioner Joins Language Line… .......... 56 … & New Privacy Information Cards .......................... 56 Website to Help Newcomers Make Friends................ 56 Lonely Planet-UN Emergency Response Partnership 56 White Ribbon Day: 25 November ............................... 57 Promoting Sign Language: New Report ..................... 57 1893 NZ Women’s Suffrage Petition Online ............... 57 Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 2
New Journal of Indigenous Scholarship ..................... 57 National Training Centre for Athletes ......................... 57 Chicken Roast is Kiwi Favourite ................................. 58 NZ’s Top Fish & Chip Shop ........................................ 58 Catchiest Song of All Time? ....................................... 58 Conferences, Workshops & Events ............................ 58 Tree Planting Benefits: Workshop Programme ...... 58 Maori Economic Development Symposium ............ 59 Refugee Education Conference ............................. 59 9th Annual National Interfaith Forum ...................... 59 Restorative Justice Conference .............................. 59 “Milksmart” Workshops ........................................... 59 Talanoa Oceania 2011 Conference........................ 60 NZ Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship .................................................... 60 Health Informatics Conference & Exhibition ........... 60 NZ Water Safety Conference 2011 ........................ 60 Disability Studies “Every Body In” Conference ....... 60 Grandparents Raising Grandchildren National Conference ............................................................. 60
3 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Maketi Ples: Calling Pacific Islands Artists/Artisans ................................................................................ 60 Pathways, Circuits and Crossroads 2011 Conference ............................................................. 61 Tonic Conference 2011: Strengthening the Sector 61 Careers & Transition Education Association (CATE) Conference ............................................................. 61 Not-for-Profit Sector Conference ............................ 61 Aphasia Association of NZ (AphasiaNZ) Conference ................................................................................ 61 Social Enterprise Journey ....................................... 61 Awards & Opportunities .............................................. 62 Rural Women New Zealand Enterprising Rural Women Award ........................................................ 62 NZ Dairy Industry Awards ....................................... 62 Health Training Grants ............................................ 62 Search for NZ’s Next UNICEF Youth Ambassadors ................................................................................ 62 Innovation in Irrigation Award ................................. 62 Appointments .............................................................. 63
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Consultation General Election: Biggest Consultation of All The General Election is being held on 26 November. The Electoral Commission produces information in 19 languages outlining what you need to know about enrolling to vote. You are qualified to vote if: •
you are 18 years or older;
•
you are a NZ citizen or permanent resident; and
•
you have lived in NZ for one year or more without leaving the country.
If you don't vote you're leaving your influence on NZ's decision-making process to others. It's easy to enrol. Get an enrolment form from any PostShop, or freetext your name and address to 3676 or tel 0800 36 76 56 or go to www.elections.org.nz. You can update your enrolment details online too. You can find out more about the referendum, the questions and the options from www.referendum.org.nz Back to top
The Referendum: Choose Your Voting System Next year’s referendum gives you the chance to have your say on the voting system you'd like to use to elect our Parliaments in the future. You will be asked two questions: •
whether you want to keep MMP (which is the voting system we use at the moment) or whether you want to change to another voting system; and
•
which of four other voting systems you would choose if NZ decides to change from MMP.
Voting Systems on Offer All these system have 120 Members of Parliament - but the number of electorates in each system can differ. Read on… MMP – Mixed Member Proportional: In this (NZ’s current system) there 70 electorates, (both Maori and General). Each electorate elects one MP, called an Electorate MP. The other 50 MPs are elected from political party lists and are called List MPs. Each voter gets two votes. The first vote (the party vote) is for the political party the voter chooses and largely decides the total number of seats each political party gets in Parliament. The second vote (the electorate vote) is to choose the MP the voter wants to represent the electorate they live in. The candidate who gets the most votes wins. They do not have to get more than half the votes. Currently, a political party that wins at least one electorate seat or 5% of the party vote gets a share of the seats in Parliament that is about the same as its share of the party vote (if a party gets 30% of the party vote it will get roughly 36 MPs in Parliament, and if it wins 20 electorate seats it will have 16 List MPs as well as its 20 Electorate MPs). Coalitions or agreements between political parties are usually needed before Governments can be formed. FPP - First Past the Post: in this there are 120 electorates, including the Maori electorates, and each elects one MP. Each voter has one vote to choose the MP they want to represent the electorate they live in. The candidate who gets the most votes wins. They do not have to get more than half the votes. The winning party usually wins a share of the seats in Parliament larger than its share of all the votes across the country. Smaller parties usually receive a smaller share of seats than their share of all the votes. A government can usually be formed without the need for coalitions or agreements between parties. Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 4
PV - Preferential Voting: there are 120 electorates, including the Maori electorates, elects one MP. Each voter ranks the candidates – 1, 2, 3, etc – in the order they prefer them. A candidate who gets more than half of all the first preference “1” votes wins. If no candidate gets more than half the first preference votes, the candidate with the fewest “1” votes is eliminated and their votes go to the candidates each voter ranked next. This continues until one candidate has more than half the votes. The winning party usually wins a share of the seats in Parliament larger than its share of all the votes across the country. It is hard for smaller parties to win seats in Parliament, but votes for smaller party candidates may influence who wins the seat because of second, third, etc preferences. A government can usually be formed without the need for coalitions or agreements between parties. STV - Single Transferable Vote: in this system each electorate (including the Maori electorates) has more than one MP. It is likely the 120 MPs would be divided between 24 and 30 electorates, each with 3 to 7 MPs. Each voter has a single vote that is transferable. Voters rank the candidates (1, 2, 3, etc) in the order they prefer, OR they can vote for the order published in advance by the political party of their choice. MPs are elected by receiving a minimum number of votes, known as the quota. This is based on the number of votes in each electorate and the number of MPs to be elected. Candidates who reach the quota from first preference votes are elected. If there are still electorate seats to fill, firstly the votes the elected candidates received beyond the quota are transferred to the candidates ranked next on those votes. Candidates who then reach the quota are elected. Then, if there are still electorate seats to fill, the lowest polling candidate is eliminated and their votes are transferred to the candidates ranked next on those votes. These steps are repeated until all the seats are filled. The number of MPs elected from each political party usually mirrors the party’s share of all the votes across the country. Coalitions or agreements between political parties are usually needed before governments can be formed. SM - Supplementary Member: there are 90 electorates in this one (including the Maori electorates). Each elects one MP, called an Electorate MP. The other 30 seats are called supplementary seats. MPs are elected to these seats from political party lists and are likely to be called List MPs. Each voter gets two votes. The first vote is to choose the MP the voter wants to represent the electorate they live in. This is called the electorate vote. The candidate who gets the most votes wins. They do not have to get more than half the votes. The second vote is for the political party the voter chooses. This is called the party vote. The share of the 30 supplementary seats each party gets reflects its share of the party vote (if a party gets 30% of the party vote, it will get about 9 List MPs in Parliament, no matter how many electorate seats it wins). This makes SM different from MMP where a party’s share of all 120 seats mirrors its share of the party vote. One or other of the major parties would usually have enough seats to govern alone, but coalitions or agreements between parties may sometimes be needed. More about the Referendum, and the voting systems, is at http://www.referendum.org.nz/ Back to top
Farm Gate Sales of Raw Milk This Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) discussion paper seeks your views on whether to continue farm gate sales of raw drinking milk. At the moment, the law lets farmers sell a daily maximum of five litres of raw milk from their farm to people to drink and give to their family. Three options are proposed: •
to maintain the current legal position;
•
to make some amendments to conditions of sale and retain the requirement for a risk management programme* (RMP); and
•
to make some amendments to conditions of sale, and exempt farmers from an RMP for farm gate sales, but still require them to meet some animal health and hygiene requirements and keep records of sales (this one is MAF’s preferred option).
There are no plans for commercial-scale sales of raw milk.
5 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
*A written programme designed to manage the hazards, the wholesomeness and the labelling of animal material and products (the hazards may be biological, chemical, or physical). Submissions close on 5 December 2011. Send submissions to MAFfoodpolicy@maf.govt.nz. More is at http://www.foodsafety.govt.nz/elibrary/industry/farm-gate-raw-milksales/index.htm Back to top
Lotsa Bills to Comment on Your views are sought on several Bills and Inquiries. Select Committees ceased to exist when Parliament was dissolved on 20 October 2011, so there are no set closing dates for these consultations – they can be made during this “interregnum” period (this is the period when there is a gap, in a government - there’s no one at home in the Beehive). Two copies of a submission should be sent to the relevant select committee, or you can make a submission online. Submissions received will be held by the Office of the Clerk, which will give all submissions to the new committees, once these are set up. •
Victims of Crime Reform Bill (Justice and Electoral Committee): this would strengthen the accountability of the government departments providing services to victims; widen the things a victim can include in their victim impact statement; mean victims are told when an offender is convicted for breaching release conditions; and give victims of offending by children and young persons the right to attend Youth Court.
The Bill is at http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/SC/MakeSub/d/d/f/49SCJE_SCF_00DBHOH_BILL10841_1-Victims-of-Crime-Reform-Bill.htm
•
Crown Entities Reform Bill (Government Administration Committee): this one would establish a new Health Promotion Agency; and disestablish: the Alcohol Advisory Council of NZ (ALAC); the Crown Health Financing Agency, the Mental Health Commission, and the Charities Commission.
The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0332/latest/versions.aspx
•
Taxation (Annual Rates, Returns Filing, and Remedial Matters) Bill (Finance and Expenditure Committee): this Bill sets the annual income tax rates for the 2012/13 year, introduces amendments to the requirements for filing and storing of tax returns, and amends other acts and regulations such as the KiwiSaver Act 2006.
The Bill is at http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/Legislation/Bills/7/d/2/00DBHOH_BILL11044_1-Taxation-Annual-Rates-Returns-Filing-and-Remedial.htm
•
Inquiry into the wellbeing of Maori children (Maori Affairs Committee): will cover health, education, and welfare of Maori children; whether the amount spent in relation to them in the health, education, social services, and justice sectors is fair; and policy and legislation that could address the findings of this inquiry.
More is at http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/PB/SC/BusSum/9/d/f/00DBSCH_INQ_11080_1-Inquiry-into-the-determinants-of-wellbeing-for.htm
•
Student Loan Scheme Amendment Bill (Finance and Expenditure Committee): would change the way the income of NZ-based borrowers is assessed to find out how much they should be repaying; enable Inland Revenue (IRD) to get the contact details of borrowers in default; and shorten the repayment holiday of overseas borrowers from three years to one.
More is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0326/latest/versions.aspx
•
Spending Cap (People's Veto) Bill (Finance and Expenditure Committee): the aim of this Bill, which would limit the annual increase in core Crown expenses, is to have the State sector making up a smaller proportion of the economy.
The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0315/latest/versions.aspx
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 6
• Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Bill (Local Government and Environment Committee): sets up an environmental management system for NZ's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and continental shelf. A consent-based system would be used to regulate mining, some petroleum activities, energy generation, carbon storage, and marine farming. The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0321/latest/DLM3955428.html Back to top
Improving Services for Very Sick Children The Ministry of Health is consulting on a paper called “Guidance for Integrated Paediatric Palliative Care Services* in NZ”, developed after a review found that, outside of Auckland, many families have little access to specialist care services. The paper proposes a system led by the Starship Paediatric Palliative Care Team, where nurse coordinators and lead paediatricians in each DHB would link local providers with the national service, and develop locally appropriate services. *Paediatric palliative services improve the quality of life of children with life-threatening illnesses and their families. Submissions close on 28 November 2011. Submission form/more information is at http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/guidance-paediatric-palliative-servces-nz Send submissions to cancerteam@moh.govt.nz, or to Cancer Team, Ministry of Health, PO Box 5013, Wellington, marked Submission – Paediatric Back to top
Aged Care Workers & EEO: Inquiry The Human Rights Commission’s (HRC) Inquiry is looking into equal employment opportunities issues in the aged care sector. HRC says women working as caregivers in the aged care sector are among the lowest paid workers in NZ. The Commission wants to hear the views of nurses and carers, GPs, and people receiving care, as well as the views of DHBs, employers, managers, and anyone who has an interest in improving conditions in the sector. The Inquiry’s Terms of Reference cover: •
the regulations governing the aged care sector;
•
recruitment and retention;
•
training and qualifications;
•
conditions of work;
•
wages, and equal pay, pay parity, and pay equity issues;
•
the role of men and women working in the aged care sector; and
•
equal employment opportunities and migrant workers.
Submissions close 31 December 2011. Visit http://www.neon.org.nz/agedcareinquiry/ to complete an electronic submission form or email emilias@hrc.co.nz Back to top
Ultrafast Broadband Builders: Reporting Proposals The Commerce Commission has published a consultation paper on the kind of information the companies who will be building ultra-fast broadband (UFB) fibre networks should be required to disclose to it. The companies concerned are Enable Networks, Ultrafast Broadband Limited, North Power Fibre and Telecom NZ Ltd (Chorus). The Commission suggests they supply quarterly and annual financial information and performance indicators, summaries of which the Commission would publish on its website. The first summary would be published in 2014. Submissions close on 11 November 2011. They go to regulation.branch@comcom.govt.nz or to N Lord, Chief Advisor, Regulation branch – Telecommunications, Commerce Commission, PO Box 2351, Wellington. The paper is at http://www.comcom.govt.nz/information-disclosure-2/
7 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
MAF Consultations There are three (submission closing dates are in brackets): •
boats: anti-fouling/In-water cleaning guidelines: the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MAF) is reviewing the “Code of Practice for Anti-fouling and In-water Hull Cleaning and Maintenance” (the ANZECC Code). This code advises boat owners and governments in Australia and NZ about the use of anti-fouling coatings, and cleaning and maintaining boats at sea (18 November 2011).
Make your submission on the form provided in the discussion paper, and email it to aquaticbiosecurity@maf.govt.nz, or post it to MAF, PO Box 2526, Wellington, attn A Bauckham. More is at http://www.maf.govt.nz/news-resources/consultations/draft-antifouling-and-in-water-cleaning-guidelines
•
protecting agricultural compounds application information: this discussion paper is about protecting the information that MAF and other organisations receive in applications for approval to use a substance in an agricultural compound.
Submissions close on 15 December 2011. They go to maffoodpolicy@maf.govt.nz. More is at http://www.foodsafety.govt.nz/elibrary/industry/consultation-data-protection/
•
MAF Import Health Standard: table grapes from Korea: import health standards (IHS) set out the requirements that have to met before an item can get biosecurity clearance (in this case, the item is grapes from Korea).
Comments are due by 2 December 2011. They go to: plantimports@maf.govt.nz, or to Plant Imports, Import & Export Standards, MAF, PO Box 2526, Wellington 6140. More is at http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/biosec/consult/draft-ihs-table-grapes-korea.pdf and http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/files/biosec/consult/draft-ihs-table-grapeskorea-rmp.pdf Back to top
LINZ Consultations Land Information NZ (LINZ) is consulting on the following preliminary proposals for tenure review* of some high country land in the South Island (submission closing dates are in brackets): •
Invercroy (16 November 2011);
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Blue Mountain (22 November 2011);
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Caithness (29 November 2011);
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Manuka Point (13 December 2011);
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Ribbonwood (20 December 2011); and
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Caberfeidh (20 December 2011).
*tenure review is a process where leaseholders gain freehold title to productive land in exchange for giving up other land for conservation. For more on the reviews and on where to send submissions go to http://www.linz.govt.nz/about-linz/news-publications-and-consultations/consultation-projects-and-reviews Back to top
Southern Blue Tuna Fishery Consultation The Ministry of Fisheries (MFish) is doing a mid-season review of the southern bluefin tuna (STN 1) fishery for 2011-12, before putting in place decisions made by the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna in October 2011. Submissions close on 11 November 2011. Email them to Kara.McKelvey@fish.govt.nz, or post them to K McKelvey, MFish, PO Box 1020, Wellington 6140. More is at http://www.fish.govt.nz/en-nz/Consultations/Review+of+the+southern+bluefin+tuna+STN1/default.htm
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 8
Environmental Protection Authority Consultations There are four (submission closing dates are in brackets): •
Yearly Chemical Review 2011: submissions are being sought on a number of chemicals currently under review (23 November 2011).
For more, including a submission form click on “documents” at http://www.epa.govt.nz/search-databases/Pages/applications-details.aspx?appID=ERMA200926#. The Yearly Chemical Review document is at http://www.epa.govt.nz/consultations/hazardous-substances/Pages/Yearly-Chemical-Review-2011.aspx
•
Application to establish Group Standards for Veterinary Medicines: submissions are sought on proposals for group standards for certain veterinary medicines, and for active ingredients for agricultural compounds (28 November 2011).
More, including a link to a submission form, is at http://www.epa.govt.nz/consultations/hazardoussubstances/Pages/Application%20to%20establish%20Group%20Standards%20for%20Veterinary%20Medicines.aspx
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Application to import or manufacture GF-2032, an insecticide containing sulfoxaflor (18 November 2011).
More is at http://www.epa.govt.nz/consultations/hazardous-substances/Pages/Import-or-manufacture-GF-2032.aspx
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Discussion paper on organophosphates and certain carbamates: EPA is asking for information on their reassessment, and possible additional controls (30 November 2011).
The paper is at http://www.epa.govt.nz/Publications/Call%20for%20information.pdf Back to top
DOC Consultations The Department of Conservation (DOC) is consulting on (submission closing dates are in brackets): •
Intention to grant 20-year concession for helicopter landings on DOC-managed land in Otago (20 December 2011).
Submissions go to rclarke@doc.govt.nz or to Otago Conservancy Office, PO Box 5244, Moray Place, Dunedin 9058. More is at http://www.doc.govt.nz/gettinginvolved/consultations/current/notified-concession-applications/helicoptor-landings-on-doc-managed-land-heli-tours-ltd/
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Intention to grant a concession to develop and operate commercial accommodation at the St Bathans Post Office, Central Otago (1 December 2011).
Submissions go to otago@doc.govt.nz or to Otago Conservancy Office, PO Box 5244, Moray Place, Dunedin 9058. More is at http://www.doc.govt.nz/gettinginvolved/consultations/current/notified-concession-applications/st-bathans-post-office-cameron-accommodation-ltd/ Back to top
Food Standards Consultation Food Standards Australia NZ (FSANZ) is calling for written submissions on applications to include amylomaltase as a processing aid in the Food Standards Code. Amylomaltase is sourced from a genetically modified (GM) strain of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, and is used as a processing aid to produce modified starch products as an ingredient in dairy products. Submissions close on 14 December 2011. More is at http://www.foodsafety.govt.nz/consultation/
9 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
NZ Historic Places Trust Consultations The NZ Historic Places Trust is proposing to include the following places on its register of NZ's treasured heritage places and your views are sought (closing dates for submissions are in brackets): •
Palmerston Street Cottages, Historic Area, Riverton (22 November 2011). Email submissions to ograham@historic.org.nz,or write to Area Manager, Otago/Southland NZ Historic Places Trust; PO Box 5467, Dunedin 9058;
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Bankwood House, Hamilton (22 November 2011). Email submissions to ghenry@historic.org.nz, or write to Area Manager Lower Northern, NZ Historic Places Trust, PO Box 13339, Tauranga 3141;
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Militiaman Cottage, Hamilton (22 November 2011). Email submissions to ghenry@historic.org.nz or write to the address above; and
•
Mountfort House, Feilding (21 November 2011). Email submissions to aneill@historic.org.nz, or write to General Manager Central Region, NZ Historic Places Trust, PO Box 19 173, Wellington 6149.
More on all these proposals is at http://www.historic.org.nz/en/TheRegister/NotifiedProposals.aspx (scroll down) Back to top
Standards NZ Consultations •
Wheelchairs and Hoists: Hoists for the transfer of disabled persons - requirements and test methods (Revision of AS ISO 10535—2002);
•
Wheelchairs Part 10: Determination of obstacle-climbing ability of electrically powered wheelchairs (Revision of AS 3696.10—1990);
•
Wheelchairs Part 26: Vocabulary (Revision of AS 3693—1989); and
•
Wheelchairs Part 4: Energy consumption of electric wheelchairs and scooters for determination of theoretical distance range.
Closing date for comments on all of them is 24 November 2011. The drafts, and also comment forms, are at http://www.standards.co.nz/draft-standards/jointstandards/?action=browseDrafts&mod=drafts&draftTypeId=2&page=4 Back to top
Consultation Reminders Review of Family Court: this Ministry of Justice discussion paper is part of a review of the Family Court. Its main aims are to find ways to make changes that will save money and improve the efficiency of this court. Submissions close on 29 February 2012. They go to Review of the Family Court Ministry of Justice DX SX10088 Wellington, email familycourtreview@justice.govt.nz. People who have used the Family Court or have sought family legal advice can also complete an online questionnaire about their experiences at http://www.justice.govt.nz/policy/justice-system-improvements/family-court-review. The discussion paper is at http://www.justice.govt.nz/publications/globalpublications/f/family-court-review-public-consultation-paper/publication
ACC’s Compensation/Allowance Guidelines: ACC proposes to update these guidelines, which are used by ACC to assess injury so it can decide about a person’s eligibility for lump sum compensation and independence allowance. Submissions close on 21 November 2011. Send them to AMAGuidelines@dol.govt.nz, or to Consultation on Regulations Relating to AMA Guides, Attn: T Dixon, Accident Compensation Scheme Policy and Research Group, Department of Labour, PO Box 3705, Wellington 6140. “Consultation on regulations for the AMA Guidelines” is at http://www.acc.co.nz/PRD_EXT_CSMP/groups/external_levies/documents/papers_plans/wpc096136.doc. The user handbook for AMA6 is at http://www.dol.govt.nz/consultation/index.asp
Local Govt: Conflicts of Interest Rules Review: a review is being carried out of the Local Authorities (Members’ Interests) Act 1968 (LAMIA) - the legislation which governs how conflict of interest rules are managed for members of
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 10
local councils. A discussion paper asks a number of questions, e.g., Are statutory rules for managing conflicts of interest in public bodies necessary or would reliance on the common law be preferable? What would the consequences be of reliance on common law? Submissions close on 18 November 2011. Email them to lamiafeedback@dia.govt.NZ , or post them to LAMIA feedback, Department of Internal Affairs, PO Box 805, Wellington by. The paper is at http://www.dia.govt.NZ/Pubforms.nsf/URL/LAMIADiscussionDocument-August2011(Word).doc/$file/LAMIADiscussionDocumentAugust2011(Word).doc
Vulnerable Children: Government’s Green Paper: this paper asks many questions, amongst which are: •
when government agencies should step in and intervene with families and whanau; and
•
which barriers need to be removed to allow communities to take responsibility for the wellbeing of their vulnerable children.
Submissions close on 28 February 2012. Email them to yourresponse@childrensactionplan.govt.NZ or post them to The Green Paper for Vulnerable Children, PO Box 1556, Wellington, 6012. The Green Paper is at http://www.childrensactionplan.govt.NZ/. Hui, fono and community meetings will be advertised in local papers
DOC’s Conservation Management Strategies: the Department of Conservation (DOC) is currently consulting on Conservation Management Strategies for the eleven DOC conservancies covering the country. To find out more about the discussion groups and submission processes, contact your local DOC office; contact details for each DOC offices are at http://www.doc.govt.NZ/footer-links/contact-us/office-by-name/ Back to top
Rural Rural? No Cell Phone? Read On … A new scheme is being funded by Vodafone specifically for rural communities not covered by the Rural Broadband Initiative (RBI) that would otherwise be too small to expect mobile coverage. Vodafone is seeking innovative ideas from these small communities that could allow the company to build sites in these otherwise non-commercially viable areas. Communities will be invited to apply during a two-month period each year. Following consultation and liaison, it’s planned that a minimum of two sites will be built each year. Communities wishing to benefit from this initiative must be able to meet certain criteria, including a letter of support from local MP(s), a supporting petition signed by residents, a land owner willing to supply a site, and support for an RMA consent. Applications close on 15 December 2011. A selection will be made by early January and the resulting cell sites will be planned within the following 12 months. For more information on the initiative, visit http://www.vodafone.co.nz/smart-network/community-cell-site/ Back to top
Rural Property Sales: Update Recent Real Estate Institute of NZ (REINZ) data shows there were 93 more sales (up 56.7%, to 257 farm sales) for the three months ended September 2011 than for the three months ended September 2010. The median price per hectare for all farms sold in the three months to September 2011 was $17,694 compared to $15,148 in the three months to August 2011 and $17,447 for the three months to September 2010. 11 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Grazing properties accounted for the largest number of sales with 56.0% share of all sales over the three months. Dairy and horticulture properties accounted for 7.4% each, finishing properties 14%, and arable properties 5.1%. Sales of horticulture properties were relatively static, while the number of sales of lifestyle properties declined by 3.3%. More is at https://www.reinz.co.nz/reinz/index.cfm?1CC3D519-18FE-7E88-4249-4CE523B4D44B&obj_uuid=F84FF10C-0572-E3A9-8F9E-52D85D0BF31E Back to top
Commodity Prices Fall Again In October, commodity prices had the biggest monthly decline (of 3.5%) since February 2009, rounding out the fifth consecutive slide, which was led by dairy products and kiwifruit. Of the 17 commodities measured, 10 fell, two rose, and five were unchanged. Back to top
Where NZ’s Wood is Going The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry’s (MAF’s) forestry production and trade figures for the April to June 2011 quarter show a pickup in demand from Japan (where wood is traditionally used for housing construction). Japan accounted for 48.2% of total panel export volumes this quarter, up from 40% in the June 2010 quarter. Exports to Japan of fibreboard, plywood, and particleboard were also up. Demand from China continues to dominate NZ’s log market, accounting for 59.6% of total log export volumes this quarter – compared with 53.7% in the same quarter last year. Sawn timber production, meanwhile, continues to be effected by high domestic log prices and weak domestic and international demand. It fell by 7.8% to 990,000 cubic metres during the quarter. More is at http://www.maf.govt.nz/news-resources/statistics-forecasting/forestry/forestry-production-and-trade-publications.aspx Back to top
DOC & Self-resetting Possum Traps: Update The Department of Conservation (DOC) is now doing large-scale testing of self-resetting possum traps in Northland and in Te Urewera National Park, after earlier successful Waikato trials. The lightweight and durable self-resetting traps being tested automatically “fire” and reset 12 times. More is at http://www.doc.govt.nz/about-doc/news/media-releases/new-possum-traps-enter-phase-ii-of-doc-testing/ Back to top
New Farm Drum Recycling Programme Agrecovery Rural Recycling has extended its recovery programmes to include on-farm collection of plastic and steel drums sized from 61-1000 litres. Agrecovery says the programme, which will be free for the collection of drums from participating brand owners, has been introduced due to demand from growers and farmers who use the existing Agrecovery Container programme. For more go to www.agrecovery.co.nz Back to top
Animal Health Board Annual Reports The Animal Health Board's (AHB) combined 2010/11 Annual Report and Annual Research Report reflects a year of good progress. The drop in infected herd numbers to around 80 in 2010/11 is the lowest recorded total since the TB control programme was began. Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 12
The reports are available on the AHB website www.ahb.org.nz Back to top
Update from Rural Women NZ Mammary Memories: Rural Women NZ is continuing its campaign to support October’s breast cancer week with sales of its Mammary Memories plastering kits to support women with breast cancer. The mammary memory kits are $10 each. Proceeds go to the NZ Breast Cancer Foundation. More is at www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Socks for Christchurch: The organisation is also continuing sales of Aftersocks until early 2012. Over 11,000 pairs of these socks have been sold, with proceeds going to the Christchurch Mayoral Fund. Check for the new Secret Santa way of giving gifts to Christchurch people. Red and black socks cost $20, and black socks with an earthquake shake line cost $25. The deadline for ordering the sock for overseas posting is 18 November. For more information on Aftersocks and how to get your order for Christmas, or participate in Secret Santa go to www.ruralwomen.org.nz Back to top
Environment Climate Science Breakthoughs: 2009-2010 Recently, the World Resources Institute (WRI) released “Climate Science 2009-2010”. This report describes scientific breakthroughs that have significant implications for communities, ecosystems, and the advancement of climate science more generally. It is divided up according to changes to physical, hydrological*, and ecological systems, as well as advances in technologies. As a whole, the literature paints a bleak picture. We are continuing to see accelerating change in many systems, with some changes happening much faster than initially envisioned. *Hydrology is the scientific study of the properties, distribution, and effects of water on the earth's surface, in the soil and underlying rocks, and in the atmosphere. A detailed press release is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/SC1110/S00042/release-of-climate-science-2009-2010.htm. The report is at http://www.wri.org/publication/climate-science Back to top
All About Bovine TB… This documentary about bovine tuberculosis (TB) comes from the Animal Health Board (AHB). It charts the history of the disease in NZ through the eyes of farmers, vets and TB testers around the country. It describes both the personal and economic effects of having the disease in a herd, as well as the work being done through the TB-free NZ programme. It ends by considering the role possums play in spreading the disease and the benefits possum control brings both to TB management and, indirectly, to NZ's native wildlife. View it at http://www.youtube.com/user/AnimalHealthBoardNZ#p/c/CAAF3FB21F85A84F Back to top
13 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
… & Annual Report on 1080: EPA The Environmental Protection Authority’s (EPA’s) fourth annual report on 1080 discusses aerial 1080 operations for control of possums conducted in the year ended December 2010 and research carried out to July 2011. There were 45 aerial operations in 2010, covering nearly 440,000 hectares. In 2010, 34 incidents and complaints about aerial 1080 operations were reported to the EPA (17 in 2009). All were investigated and six instances of breaches of the regulatory controls due to operator practice were found. In addition, sixteen breaches of the law were caused by actions of members of the public. Download the report from http://www.epa.govt.nz/news/erma-media-releases/pages/epa-2010-annual-report-on-10801019-2361.aspx# Back to top
Game Animal Council Bill introduced A recently introduced Bill formally establishing the Game Animal Council aims to provide a strong voice for hunters. Its functions would relate to: the management of tahr, chamois, deer and pig; promoting hunters’ safety; improving hunting opportunities; and making recommendations to the Minister of Conservation. The Bill will be eligible for its first reading when Parliament resumes. The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0347/latest/versions.aspx Back to top
Vote for Your Favourite Bird Endangered birds, garden birds, and birds with a sweet song and a flamboyant dress-sense usually get the most votes in the Forest & Bird's annual Bird of the Year poll. Birds that are bad tempered, hold multiple citizenships, and are dull or drab fare generally fare poorly. Underbirds include the skua and the spur-winged plover. Past winners include: tui (2005); fantail (2006); grey warbler (2007); kakapo (2008); kiwi (2009); and kakariki (2010). Last year there were a massive 21,000 votes, with kakariki winning by 1,500. However, it is suspected that there was some fowl play going on, so security has been ramped up this year to prevent cyber-bots skewing the votes. Apart from in 2009, our national bird the kiwi has also fared very poorly in most polls. It was described by one campaigner as a “flightless national bore” in one vitriolic blog, but was crowned Bird of the Year in 2009 after some serious campaigning by BNZ Save the Kiwi. The voting closes on 25 November 2011. Vote at www.birdoftheyear.org.nz (you’ll also get a little birdsong treat) Back to top
Cleaning Contaminated Land: National Standard A new national environmental standard for cleaning up contaminated land will take effect from 1 January 2012. The “National Environmental Standard for Assessing and Managing Contaminants in Soil to Protect Human Health” applies to developments – including proposed subdivisions, changes of land use, and major earthworks – on land that has been used for certain hazardous activities or industries. It requires a number of steps to be taken to clean the soil or contain the contamination, so it is safe for human use before the development. Workshops are being held in Wellington (10 November), Auckland (15 November), Christchurch (16 November), Rotorua (22 November), Napier (1 December), and Dunedin (6 December). More on the standard/the workshops is at http://www.mfe.govt.nz/laws/standards/contaminants-in-soil/ Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 14
Tourism New Rules for Adventure Tourism … New Department of labour (DoL) regulations relating to commercial adventure tourism and outdoor education are now in effect. Operators who provide activities that are designed to deliberately expose participants to a managed risk of serious harm are required to have a safety audit and become registered. The new regulations don’t apply to organisations that don’t charge fees, such as schools or voluntary clubs. Operators have six months to notify DoL (online or via fax, post or email) about their operation and clarify whether the regulations apply to them. DoL will then be in touch with each operator to let them know whether they need to meet the regulations, and must register. In 2012 DoL will be issuing a guide for operators to help them understand the regulations. The regulations are at http://www.dol.govt.nz/consultation/adventure-tourism/update.asp Back to top
...& New Adventure Aviation Rules A new transport rule introduces a certification system and higher safety standards for a range of commercial adventure aviation operations. The Civil Aviation Rule Part 115: Adventure Aviation – Certification and Operations comes into effect on 10 November 2011. Hot air balloon, tandem hang glider, paraglider and skydiving operators will need to apply for certification within 6 months, microlight operators within 12 months, and gliding operators within 18 months. Civil Aviation Rule Part 115 is at http://www.caa.govt.nz/rules/nprms_closed.htm Back to top
September Visitor Numbers Rise… An influx of visitors (74,400) for the Rugby World Cup led to a 26% increase in visitor arrivals in September 2011, compared with September 2010. The main countries the Rugby World Cup arrivals came from during the July– September period were: Australia (28,700), the United Kingdom (12,800), France (8,300), the United States (3,700), South Africa (3,600), and Ireland (3,400). Sixty-nine percent of Rugby World Cup arrivals were men. The most common age groups were 25–29 years (11,900) and 30–34 years (10,200). More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/population/Migration/IntTravelAndMigration_MRSep11.aspx Back to top
Short & Longer-term Migration Picture On a seasonally adjusted basis, there was a net loss of 700 permanent and long-term migrants in the month of September 2011. Monthly net migration had been negative between March and July 2011, following the Christchurch earthquake on 22 February, but was positive in August. In the year ended September 2011, NZ had a net migration gain of just 800 people, down from 13,900 the previous year. This is the lowest in 10 years. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/population/Migration/IntTravelAndMigration_MRSep11.aspx Back to top
15 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Tourism Spending: March 2011 Year Spending by international tourists increased 1.5% in the year ended March 2011, the second-lowest increase since 1999. NZ was visited by fewer tourists from Australia, the UK, and the USA, but by more from China and Japan. Total tourism spending (by both domestic and international tourists) increased 2.1% to $23 billion (driven by increased spending on fuel and air transport). Other figures for the year are: •
spending by domestic tourists increased 2.5%;
•
international tourism contributed 16.8% to NZ’s total exports of goods and services;
•
tourism generated a direct contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) of 3.8%;
•
industries supporting tourism generated an extra $8.8 billion to tourism;
•
there were 91,900 full-time positions in the tourism industry; and
•
tourists generated a total of $1.7 billion in goods and services tax (GST) revenue.
More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/industry_sectors/Tourism/TourismSatelliteAccount_MR11.aspx Back to top
Queenstown Makes Lonely Planet’s Top Ten Queenstown & Southern Lakes is ranked eighth on Lonely Planet’s list of the top 10 regions in its publication Best in Travel 2012. To quote: “There isn't a bad time to turn up in the world's top adventure playground. There's non-stop outdoor activities year-round in the resort towns of Queenstown, Wanaka and Te Anau, as well as the surrounding mountains, lakes and national parks. Where else can you ski in the morning and golf or water-ski in the afternoon? Add excellent wineries and superb restaurants, and what more is there to say?” Lonely Planet's Top 10 Regions 2012 are: 1: Coastal Wales; 2; La Ruta Maya, Central America; 3: Northern Kenya; 4: Arunachal Pradesh, India; 5. Hvar, Croatia; 6: Sicily; 7: Maritime Provinces, Canada; 8: Queenstown & Southern Lakes, NZ; 9: Borneo; and 10: Poitou-Charentes, France Back to top
Health Under-sixes: Free After-hours Care Coming District health boards (DHBs) are to work with local GP networks and after-hours clinics to extend free medical care for under-six-year-olds to after-hours. The programme (likely to be rolled out from 1 July 2012) will be funded by efficiencies elsewhere in the health service. Currently 87% of all children aged under six – including 95% of low-income household children – receive free doctors' visits during the daytime because their GPs have opted into the Zero Fees for Under Sixes scheme. Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 16
ACC Now In Surplus ACC’s 2010/2011 Annual Report showed a net surplus of $3.545 billion for the year. This result reduces ACC’s net deficit from $10.3 billion last year to about $6.8 billion. ACC says number of factors have contributed to ACC’s positive performance, including improved rehabilitation rates for injured people and increased returns on ACC’s investments. The report is at www.acc.co.nz Back to top
More People Using Pharmacists’ Advice Nearly two-thirds of kiwis (62%) are choosing to bypass their GP for medical advice in favour of their local pharmacist, according to the findings of a survey by Canstar Blue of pharmacies. Dunedin residents were the most likely to head to the pharmacy, closely followed by Wellingtonians. Women were more likely to seek advice at 65%, than men at 58%. Gen X is most in favour of accessing free advice with 65% heading to the local pharmacy. Other findings were that: •
32% of those surveyed buy and/or refill their prescription medicines more than 12 times a year;
•
Baby Boomers were the biggest consumers with 38% refilling their prescription medications at least monthly; and
•
11% of kiwis surveyed they buy a portion of their products online to save money (men are four times as likely as women to head online for a pharmacy bargain).
More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE1110/S00036/62-kiwis-get-advice-from-pharmacist.htm Back to top
Warfarin: Pharmacist Testing Benefits Patients A six-month demonstration project where pharmacists have taken on a greater role in managing patients on the traditional blood thinning drug Warfarin, has resulted in excellent outcomes for patients, and high levels of satisfaction. The pharmacists carried out finger-prick blood tests in their pharmacy, and were able to quickly advise patients about their medication and modify their dose if required (working in collaboration with the patient’s GP). Anticoagulant control improved significantly for the patients taking part in the project, meaning less likelihood of health problems such as stroke or bleeding. Patients said they were very satisfied with the new system, which involves fewer general practice and laboratory visits. More is at http://www.pharmacy-today.co.nz/media-releases/2011/october-2011/20/new-pharmacist-role-benefits-patients.aspx Back to top
New Alcohol/Drug Programmes More Alcohol and drug programmes are planned. They include (amongst other things): •
alcohol screening and interventions in primary health care, accident and emergency, youth health centres, school counselling services, District Courts, and prisons. Feedback will be provided on alcohol use, low-risk alcohol consumption, harm associated with risky alcohol use, and referrals to more intensive assessment and treatment options;
•
more alcohol and drug services for youth, with the aim of reaching an additional 2000 young people a year and reducing the waiting time between referral and treatment;
•
programmes for drink-drivers to help reduce repeat drink driving and enhance public safety;
•
community-based treatment for offenders who have mild to moderate alcohol and drug problems; and
17 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
•
a five-year Drug Court pilot in Auckland (see box below).
More is at http://www.beehive.govt.nz/sites/all/files/DriversofCrimeInvestmentPackage.pdf
A pilot Drug Court is being set up next year in Auckland to deal with offenders with severe alcohol and drug dependencies, who plead guilty to an offence that carries a jail terms of up to three years. It will run for five years, working with about 100 people a year who require intensive treatment to help break the cycle of their substance abuse. The offenders will be required to attend a treatment programme, be subject to random drug testing, and be required to regularly attend the court. Once they graduate from their treatment programme, their success may be taken into account at sentencing. International research shows these drug courts can reduce recidivism (habitual relapse into crime) by an average of 8%. The pilot will be evaluated after four years, to decide whether it will continue and if so, where else the court will be introduced. Back to top
Bowel Cancer Screening: Four-Year Trial… A $24 million, four-year bowel screening pilot is underway at Waitemata DHB. In its first phase 500 people between 5074 years will be randomly selected from two GP practices and invited to participate. They’ll be sent a simple test kit through the post that they can complete at home and post back to the laboratory for analysis. Their results will be received within three weeks, and people will be offered a colonoscopy if their test result indicates they need further investigation. Once the pilot is in full swing, about 1300 invitations and test kits will be sent out every week. Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in NZ, and the second highest cause of cancer death. If detected and treated early, there is a very good chance of survival. More is at http://www.nzdoctor.co.nz/news/2011/october-2011/13/waitemata-proudly-launches-bowel-cancer-screening-pilot.aspx Back to top
…Early Detection of Prostate Cancer: Report… Parliament’s Health Select Committee recently released its report following an inquiry into early detection and treatment of prostate cancer. Amongst the Committee’s recommendations are that: •
the Ministry of Health (MoH) encourages men to seek information from GPs about screening and treatment for prostate cancer;
•
MoH encourages GPs to provide men with initial consultations about prostate cancer screening and treatment, during cardiovascular risk assessment;
•
MoH establishes a quality improvement programme for early detection and treatment of prostate cancer;
•
research continues into: early diagnosis and treatment; into the types of care received by men with diagnosed prostate cancer in NZ, costs, and complications relating to care; and
•
MoH be required to establish a national monitoring system for prostate cancer.
The report is at http://www.parliament.nz/NR/rdonlyres/BBF24956-DC65-42FF-AF65A39F58E96EEA/197797/DBSCH_SCR_5250_Inquiryintoearlydetectionandtreatme.pdf Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 18
… & Research into Cancers/Palliative Care Studies of bowel cancer, palliative care, and prostate cancer are to be undertaken by researchers at Auckland and Massey universities over the next three years: •
an Auckland University team has been given $1 million to study patient outcomes from colorectal cancer;
•
Massey University researchers will use a $800,000 grant to look at more efficient palliative care for cancer patients; and
•
a grant of $900,000 will fund a study of screening programmes for prostate cancer by an Auckland University team based at the Waikato Clinical School.
Back to top
Drinking Water Subsidies for Small Communities A total of $9.4 million (approved under the Drinking Water Subsidy Scheme) will be spent on helping 18 territorial local authorities and 11 private supplies provide safer drinking water for about 22,000 people in small, disadvantaged communities. More on the scheme is at http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/drinkingwaterinnz-assistanceprogramme Back to top
We’re Drinking Less Milk A University of Canterbury researcher says that based on his figures, between 1995 and 2007 the amount of milk consumed by NZers dropped 28% or 21kg per person per year to 56kg per person. In 2007 China used 27kg, Germany 70, Australia 116, and the USA 128 kg per person. More is at http://sciblogs.co.nz/guestwork/2011/10/20/milk-milk-everywhere-but-not-a-drop-to-drink/ Back to top
Mental Health Commission’s “Recovery” Report The Mental Health Commission has published a “Recovery Meanings and Measures” report. It is a resource for those working in mental health and addiction to help them understand the concept of recovery, get a sense of different recovery measures, and how to evaluate the extent to which the services mental professionals provide are actually focused on recovery. It is also a part of early work to develop a “DHB Recovery Report Card”. The report is at http://www.mhc.govt.nz/sites/mhc.govt.nz/files/Recovery%20meanings%20and%20measures.pdf
What is the Recovery Model? According to Wikipaedia, the Recovery Model as it applies to mental health is an approach to mental disorder or substance dependence that emphasises and supports each person’s potential for recovery. Recovery is seen as a personal journey that may involve developing: hope, a secure base and sense of self, supportive relationships, empowerment, social inclusion, coping skills, and meaning. The Wikipaedia definition – and a lot more about the Recovery Model – is at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Recovery_model Back to top
19 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Anxiety and Stress Calls to Kidsline Kidsline says twelve percent of all calls to its telephone counselling service for kids up to 14 relate to anxiety and stress. Bullying remains the leading reason why children call Kidsline. Stress and anxiety can stem from problems such as bullying, family issues, schoolwork, and even everyday social situations, causing a lack of focus at school, disturbed sleep, and changes in behaviour. This can mean that kids may become aggressive, or perhaps extremely withdrawn, either of which can in turn increase the difficulties they are already having. Children can call 0800 KIDSLINE (0800 543 754) free from anywhere in NZ, or from any mobile phone. Visit Kidsline online at www.kidsline.org.nz Back to top
Child Abuse Awareness Day A child abuse awareness day planned for Hamilton on 18 November (“Buddy Day”) is thought to be the first of its type in NZ. The community event will see 180 life-size cardboard children, dressed by school children prior to the event, around the city, with a nominated adult “Caregiver” to look after them for the day. The 180 cardboard “Buddies” represent 10% - 1800 - of the child abuse cases confirmed in the Waikato last year. A Facebook page - www.facebook.com/buddydaynz - will be used on the day to provide up to the minute publicity of how the day is unfolding, and to provide child abuse prevention information. Anyone in the Waikato wishing to be involved in Buddy Day as either a Buddy decorator or caregiver should contact buddyday@childmatters.org.nz, or tel 021 751 051 Back to top
Eating Well: Older People Rising food costs could increase nutrition risks in vulnerable older NZers according to a NZ Nutrition Foundation Working Group. This is because these older people are generally on fixed, tightly budgeted incomes. Ten tips for older people to stay healthy are: •
eat in season or try canned and frozen;
•
have good quality protein: cheaper fish such as canned tuna, smoked fish and sardines can be made into pies, kedgeree, curried fish or fish cakes. Have red meat a couple of times per week to boost your intake of iron and zinc. Slow cookers are a great way to make cheaper cuts of meat, such as shin or gravy beef, tender and tasty. Frozen chicken is often cheaper than fresh. Baked beans, chickpeas, dried beans, and lentils are also good sources of cheap protein. And don’t forget eggs; the cheaper ones are just as good nutritionally as the more expensive varieties;
•
make cereals shopping simple: a plain, filling option such as Weetbix which is low in sugar and high in fibre is a cheaper choice. Don’t forget the humble oatmeal - you can make your own muesli, or have it as a warming and nourishing breakfast. Rice and pasta are cheap cereals too, as are the store brands of wholemeal bread;
•
dairy foods: usually fresh milk is cheaper than UHT (long life) varieties – although UHT calcium-enriched milk is currently cheaper. As cheese is quite expensive now, use less by enhancing its flavour with a little curry powder or mustard;
•
buy just what you need: where things are pre-packaged, such as meat, ask for a smaller pack if what is on display is too much;
•
“ready to heat and eat” meals are good for emergencies;
•
get out the old recipe books: enjoy creating meals for you and your family or friends. In the cold weather, a hot pudding can be nutritious and comforting – apple crumble, creamy rice, bread and butter pudding are all low cost favourites;
•
resist temptation: shop with a list, don’t go to the supermarket when you are hungry, and try not to go too often;
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 20
•
eat with other people: eating is an important social activity and we tend to eat better when we share meal with others; and
•
keep active, and maintain a good weight.
More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE1110/S00001/older-peoples-nutrition-at-risk.htm Back to top
Children’s Soft Toys: Dealing to Dust Mites You can get rid of house dust mites on children’s soft toys by freezing them, hot tumble drying them, or washing them with eucalyptus oil and detergent, according to new research by the University of Otago in Wellington. House dust mites and their allergens are strongly associated with the development of asthma in children, and they pose a serious issue for asthmatics. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/SC1110/S00041/killing-house-dust-mites-on-childrens-soft-toys.htm Back to top
Latest ACC Injury & Claim Stats In 2010, the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) accepted a total of 209,700 claims for work-related injuries. Agriculture and fishery workers had the highest rate of injury claims, with 241 claims for every 1,000 full- time equivalent employees (FTEs) – nearly 1 in 4. Trades workers had the next highest claim rate, at 202 claims per 1,000 FTEs. This was followed closely by people working in elementary occupations (such as labourers and cleaners), and plant and machine operators and assemblers, with 200 and 188 claims per 1,000 FTEs, respectively. Men made 72% of all claims for work-related injuries in 2010 (since 2002, men have made about three-quarters of all claims). Workers aged 65 years and over had the highest claim rate (1 in 6 workers) across all age groups. On the plus side there is a pattern of decreasing injury claim rates. Final figures for 2002–09 show a gradual decline in the overall rate of injury claims, from 143 claims per 1,000 FTEs in 2002 to 114 in 2009. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/health/injuries/InjuryStatistics_MR10.aspx Back to top
Abortion Statistics 2010 The number of abortions performed in NZ decreased in 2010 to the lowest rate since 1999. A total of 16,630 induced abortions were performed in NZ in 2010, 920 fewer than in 2009. The general abortion rate (abortions per 1,000 women aged 15–44 years) decreased from 19.2 per 1,000 in 2009 to 18.1 in 2010. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/health/abortion/AbortionStatistics_MRYeDec10.aspx Back to top
New Otago Ethnic Women’s Support Service Shakti Community Council recently opened a new ethnic women’s support service in Dunedin’s Community House: a drop in centre managed by women from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The Shakti Community Council is now running four women’s refuges, drop-in centres and a 24-hour crisis line for ethnic women in NZ.
21 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
The crisis line telephone number for ethnic women is 0800 742584. For more visit www.shakti.org.nz Back to top
Developing Countries’ Access to Medications NZ (along with many other countries) is to accept an amendment to World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules that will make it easier to export generic drugs to developing countries faced with public health problems, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria and tuberculosis. It means they will be able to import generic copies of patented drugs if they cannot manufacture the drugs themselves. The amendment deals with patent provisions in the WTO’s Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights, and has been in place on a temporary basis since 2003. Once NZ has made changes to its own patent laws it will become an “exporting member” and be able to issue compulsory licenses for the export of generic copies of patented pharmaceuticals to countries facing public health crises if it is asked to do to by those countries. The text of the Protocol is on the WTO website at www.wto.org Back to top
World Tuberculosis Declining New data, published in the World Health Organisation (WHO) 2011 Global Tuberculosis Control Report, shows that the number of people who fell ill with TB dropped to 8.8 million in 2010, after peaking at 9 million in 2005. The report also finds that TB deaths fell to 1.4 million in 2010, after reaching 1.8 million in 2003. At the same time, it states that current progress is at risk from under-funding, especially for efforts to combat multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), a form of the disease that fails to respond to standard drugs. For more details go to UN News Centre at http://www.un.org/news Back to top
Education/Training Is Your School Getting Fast Broadband? Chorus and Crown Fibre Holdings have released the list of urban schools included in its first year ultra-fast broadband (UFB) rollout. Some 90,000 students who attend 200 urban schools in the Auckland, Blenheim, Dunedin, Hastings, Masterton, Napier, Palmerston North, Porirua, Rotorua, Taupo, and Wellington areas will soon be connected to a UFB network that can deliver broadband speeds of at least 100Mbps. Plans for deploying UFB fibre connections to the remaining urban schools within the 24 candidate areas awarded to Chorus are still being developed. The list of urban schools, by region, can be viewed (as an Excel spreadsheet) at http://www.chorus.co.nz/f1269,67390/UFB_Schools.xls Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 22
More Social Workers in Schools An additional 149 full-time social workers are to be appointed to work in schools and with Child, Youth and Family (CYF). The move will extend the Social Workers in Schools (SWiS) to all decile 1-3 schools and increase the number of schools with SWiS from 285 to 673. It will cost $11.1 million per year to cover the 388 schools currently without SWiS. Back to top
ERO Report on Service Academies An Education Review Office (ERO) evaluation of Service Academies says that secondary school students enrolled in these academies show improved engagement, behaviour and academic achievement, and also improved health and fitness levels. The academies offer leadership and outdoor education courses, while students work towards achieving at least NCEA Level 1 literacy and numeracy. The ERO report is at http://www.ero.govt.nz/National-Reports/An-Evaluation-of-Service-Academies-October-2011 Back to top
Degrees Worth More to Men A recent Ministry of Education study has shown that women graduates are unlikely to earn the same as their male counterparts in the long-term, and that there appears to be an unequal benefit from tertiary education between men and women. The key findings from the report included: •
post-study income appears to be influenced by things associated with tertiary study like completion of qualifications, the level of study and the field of study. Earnings generally increase with the level of study;
•
men earn more than women after they have completed tertiary education; and
•
women’s earnings increase less than men’s earnings in the four years after the study is completed, so women earn less than men at all levels after four years.
The report is at www.educationcounts.govt.nz/publications/tertiary_education Back to top
Hong Kong/NZ Education Agreement The Education Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the NZ Ministry of Education have signed an Arrangement on Education Co-operation (the Arrangement), which will help build and strengthen the education relationship between the two organisations. Under the Arrangement, there could be: exchange of teachers, academic staff, experts and students; school-to-school exchanges; transfers of knowledge, ideas and expertise; and joint NZ and HKSAR research programmes. The main text of the Arrangement is on the website of the Education Bureau at www.edb.gov.hk Back to top
23 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Employment Wages Grow ‌ Salary and wage rates, which include overtime, increased 2.0% in the year to the September 2011 quarter (this includes a rise of 0.6% in the September quarter). Salary and wage rates for the private sector increased 2.0% in the same year. Public sector wage rates increased 1.8%, including 2.4% in the education and training industry. Average ordinary time (that is, excluding overtime) hourly earnings rose 3.2% for the September 2011 year, after rising 3.0% for the June 2011 year. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/prices_indexes/LabourCostIndexSalaryandWageRates_MRSep11qtr.aspx Back to top
‌ but, More People Unemployed Although an extra 5,000 people were employed in the September 2011 quarter, the unemployment rate rose slightly 0.1% (to 6.6%) from the June 2011 quarter. The growth in employment reflects a rise in full-time employment, while part-time employment dropped slightly over the quarter. There were different labour market movements for men and women this quarter. The number of men in employment rose, and the number of men in unemployment fell. However, the number of women in employment fell, while the number of women in unemployment rose. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/income-and-work/employment_and_unemployment/HouseholdLabourForceSurvey_MRSep11qtr.aspx Back to top
Skilled Job Vacancies Drop in September The number of skilled job vacancies advertised online dropped in September, according to the latest analysis by the Department of Labour (DoL). Skilled job vacancies fell by 1.2% in September; job vacancies overall also fell by the same amount. Over the past year, the growth in online job vacancies has been positive, with skilled job vacancies up by 23.1%; and all job vacancies up by 24.9%. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1110/S00316/in-online-job-vacancies-in-september.htm Back to top
Labour Costs Rise While total labour costs* rose 2.4% in the year to the June 2011 quarter, non-wage labour costs rose 4.9%, reflecting higher workplace accident insurance and superannuation costs (salary and wage rates - including overtime - increased 1.9% in August ). Other kinds of non-wage labour costs are annual leave and statutory holiday costs, medical insurance, motor vehicles for private use, and low-interest loans. *Labour costs represent the costs incurred in employing labour. They cover: wage and non-wage labour costs; costs for time worked and time not worked; and extend to such costs as recruitment and training costs. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/prices_indexes/LabourCostIndex_MRJun11qtr.aspx Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 24
NZ Workers on the Move According to the latest Randstad Workmonitor Mobility Index, Kiwi workers’ confidence in finding a new job rose to its highest level this year. In a global context, NZ ranks eighth for actual mobility, with 18% of Kiwi respondents having changed jobs in the previous six months. The third quarter Randstad Workmonitor 2011 also found, amongst other things: •
6% of Kiwi workers are very frightened of losing their job;
•
14% are actively looking for a new job;
•
10% are dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with their job;
•
63% are focused on getting a promotion; and
•
60% feel the need to do something completely different in their career.
The report (which includes detailed country differences) is at http://www.randstad.com/press-room/research-reports. A press release at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1110/S00331/new-zealand-workers-on-the-move-labour-mobility-high.htm Back to top
Canterbury Women in Trades Network A Canterbury Women in Trades Network has been set up to support women in trades, provide mentoring, and attract new women into careers they may not have considered. According to the 2006 census, only one percent of all builders, plumbers, electricians and mechanics were women, and in 2009 only 13 percent of engineers were women. More on women being encouraged to work in trades in Christchurch is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/AK1108/S00793/women-encouraged-to-look-at-trades-inchristchurch.htm Back to top
New Trade Union Formed The National Distribution Union and Finsec have merged to form NZ’s newest union – FIRST Union. The union combines 23,000 workers from the NDU’s four sectors of retail, transport & logistics, textiles, and wood, with nearly 5,000 finance workers from Finsec. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1110/S00175/putting-workers-first-new-28000-strong-trade-union-formed.htm Back to top
What Makes Great Staff Members Outstanding Here are some qualities which make an already great employee outstanding. •
are a little bit “quirky”: the best workers are a little different. Unusual personalities shake things up, and make work more fun;
•
know self control: outstanding employees know when to play and when to be serious, when to be irreverent and when to conform, and when to challenge and when to back off;
•
ignore job descriptions: the smaller the company the more important it is employees think on their feet, adapt quickly to shifting priorities, and do whatever it takes, regardless of role or position, to get things done;
•
are eager to prove others wrong: self-motivation often springs from a desire to show doubters are wrong. Education, intelligence, talent, skill — all are important, but drive is critical;
25 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
•
praise in public: outstanding employees recognise the contributions of others, especially in group settings where the impact of words is greater;
•
know when to complain in private: the staff member who comes to you after a meeting to discuss a sensitive issue, which, if brought up in a group setting would have set off a firestorm, does you and the business a favour;
•
ask questions for others: outstanding employees have a feel for the concerns of those around them and ask questions others are hesitant to raise;
•
start work on time: outstanding staff start working when the workday starts; they hit the ground running, on time;
•
tinker: great employees follow processes; outstanding employees go a step further and find ways to make those processes even better, not just because they are expected to, but because they can’t just help themselves; and
•
have good manners: outstanding workers have all the above attributes and they do it all with good grace and politeness.
Source: TheMainReportBusiness, 19 September 2011 Back to top
Top Office Pet Peeves According to LinkedIn (the world’s largest professional network) the top three office pet peeves in NZ offices are: •
constant complainers;
•
people not taking ownership for their actions; and
•
dirty common areas (such as a dirty communal microwave or refrigerator).
The survey uncovered some interesting differences across countries and cultures. For example: •
Americans get more irritated than other nationals by co-workers taking others’ food from the office refrigerator;
•
Brazilians are the most annoyed of any national group by excessive gossiping;
•
Germans are annoyed by dirty common areas (the community microwave or refrigerator) more than the rest of the world;
•
Indians react more negatively to irritating mobile phone ringtones; and
•
Japanese are more peeved by office pranks than others.
The country with the most pet peeves is India and the one with the fewest is Italy. New Zealand ranked at number six out of the 16 countries represented in the survey. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1109/S00869/linkedin-reveals-the-top-office-pet-peeves-in-new-zealand.htm Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 26
Housing/Building Building Industry’s Economic Potential: Report According to this PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) report: •
the construction sector accounts for one in 12 jobs, over the past decade it contributed one in seven new jobs, and a dollar invested in the industry generates three dollars in economic activity;
•
it employs over 157,000 full time equivalents, or 8% of the economy, but generates only 4% of national GDP in a sector characterised by many small businesses. Construction-related services also employ a further 42,000 people;
•
it suffers boom-bust cycles far stronger than those experienced by other sectors usually associated with fluctuating fortunes;
•
a direct result of this instability is poor skills retention and low labour productivity growth; and
•
we need to be wary of another “bust” after this boom, and do things to avoid it.
The report is at http://www.constructionstrategygroup.org.nz/downloads/PwC%20Report%20-%20Construction%20Sector%20Analysis%20Final%204%20Oct.pdf Back to top
Govt Support for Housing on Maori land: Report The Office of the Auditor-General (OAG) recently released a report on Government planning and support for housing on Maori land (including multiple-owned land). The report describes programmes supporting Maori housing over the last 80 years, and reports on three current initiatives: Kainga Whenua loans, the Maori Demonstration Partnership fund, and Special Housing Action Zones. The OAG says past lessons have not been learned from past attempts, so the three programmes are not effectively targeted and processes are not streamlined. At the moment government processes are complicated and disconnected, and funding for putting housing on Maori land does not fit well with them. The report notes that while Kainga Whenua loan programme is an encouraging development, most people who can afford the loan cannot get it and most people who can get the loan cannot afford it. Likewise, the Maori Demonstration Partnership fund could help more Maori into affordable housing on their land but needs some improvements to meet its full potential. The report is at http://www.oag.govt.nz/2011/housing-on-maori-land/2011/housing-on-maori-land/docs/housing-on-maori-land.pdf Back to top
Social Housing Funding Available The Department of Building and Housing’s Social Housing Unit is seeking applications to the following funds aimed at building more social housing (application closing dates are in brackets): •
Niche Fund: targeted at providers working on a small, local scale, or with a specific client group (5 December 2011);
•
Maori Fund: promotes use of Maori freehold or reserve land for housing (including multiple-owned land) valued for equity contribution purposes as if it were general land (19 December 2011);
•
Rural Fund: funding for using Maori freehold or reserve land for housing (including multiple-owned land); and building sustainable rural communities (19 December 2011); and
•
Growth Fund: for providers that can show how their business model will provide a platform for growth, and those that have an asset able to be used for/applied to, social and affordable housing (27 January 2012).
27 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Projects need to be at an advanced stage of readiness, with: •
the project fully scoped out, and where relevant, any decisions needed from the Maori Land Court obtained (or close to it);
•
new projects able to start construction within 12 months of signing a grant agreement; and
•
existing property able to be purchased within 6 months of signing a grant agreement.
Funding is for up to 50% of capital costs. More information, including tender requirements, is on the Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS) website at www.gets.govt.nz (you need to register your organisation first – it’s free). More is at http://www.socialhousingunit.govt.nz/funds-2011-12/ Back to top
More Houses Sold, But Prices Steady Real Estate Institute of NZ (REINZ) data on the NZ housing market for September 2011 showed 5,235 unconditional sales for the month, up 912 (21.1%) compared to September last year. But, the national volume of sales for September 2011 was just 43 higher than the August 2011 figure, a modest result given the lift usually expected during spring (when adjusted for the seasonal pattern expected at this time of year the volumes are about 2.3% weaker). Nationally, house prices eased by $5,000 to $350,000 (down 1.4%) in September compared to August and is flat compared with September 2010. Regional markets showed considerable variability. Northland recorded the strongest rise in volumes compared to August (+30.0%). Hawkes Bay recorded the strongest lift in prices for the month of September (+8.3%). More is at https://www.reinz.co.nz/reinz/index.cfm?1CB561D5-18FE-7E88-42FB-507342EF7F81&obj_uuid=90121440-AAA3-D252-09CA-ECD65E79A5D6 Back to top
New Home Approvals Continue to Rise The trends for the number of new homes authorised, both including and excluding apartments, continue to rise. This is despite seasonally adjusted figures for September showing a large decrease, whether apartment numbers, which tend to be volatile, are included or excluded. This is because the large decrease in seasonally adjusted figures for new home approvals in September partly reflects the strength of the increases in the previous two months. So, for the record, in September 2011, compared with September 2010, consents were issued for: •
1,246 new homes, including apartments, down 1.3%; and
•
1,124 new homes, excluding apartments, down 6.5%.
More is at: http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/industry_sectors/Construction/BuildingConsentsIssued_MRSep11.aspx Back to top
Guidelines: Environmental Management Systems Environmental management systems – Guidelines for incorporating ecodesign ISO 14006:2011 is a “how to” guide on including ecodesign in any environmental, quality, or similar management system. Ecodesigns are designs that include special consideration of a product’s environmental impacts (for the lifetime of the product). ISO 14006 is for organisations that have an environmental management system (EMS) to ISO 14001, whether or not they have a quality management system (QMS) to ISO 9001. It will also be useful for those who want to minimise harmful environmental impacts their products may have, but do not have a formalised EMS or QMS.
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 28
You can order PDFs of ISO Standards by calling 0800 782 632 during business hours or emailing enquiries@standards.co.nz and you can order it online at http://www.standards.co.nz/web-shop/?action=viewSearchProduct&pid=14006%3A2011%28ISO%29&mod=catalog Back to top
Faulty Building Liability: Law Commission Review The Government has asked the Law Commission to review how “joint and several liability” for faulty building work is currently managed. “Joint and several liability” is liability that is jointly shared between a number of parties - payment of damages has to be shared by these parties. A recent Building Act Review raised some issues with how well joint and several liability works in the building sector here, and looked at other possible options, for example, proportionate liability. A Cabinet paper and a report on the review of joint and several liability are at www.dbh.govt.nz Back to top
Weathertight Homes Resolution Service Claims By 30 September 2011 the Department of Building and Housing had received 6582 claims lodged for 9077 leaky home properties, and completed assessments for 9651 properties. Just under 3500 properties with active claims were in the wider Auckland region, with the rest spread (unevenly) around the country. At that time there were: •
1750 resolved claims (27%);
•
3024 closed claims (46%); and
•
1808 active claims (27%).
The following councils had no properties with active claims: Ashburton, Buller, Carterton, Central Otago, Chatham Is, Clutha, Gore, Grey, Kaikoura, Kawerau, McKenzie, Masterton, Otorohanga, Rangitikei, Ruapehu, South Taranaki, South Waikato, Southland, Tararua, Waimate, Wairoa, Waitaki, Waitomo, and Westland. More is at http://www.dbh.govt.nz/ws-092011 Back to top
Transport & Travel Award for Christchurch International Airport… Christchurch International Airport has received an international accolade never offered before. The CAPA (Centre for Pacific Aviation) Special Airport Leadership Award is "in recognition of community and industry leadership and teamwork in responding to uniquely challenging circumstances." "Christchurch and the surrounding Canterbury region have suffered extreme hardship over the past year, experiencing two major earthquakes and a succession of subsequent aftershocks. In the aftermath of the February 2011 earthquake, Christchurch Airport and its dedicated team played a vital role in helping restore normalcy to the community, even while its staff were themselves suffering personally. CAPA has the deepest admiration for their efforts over recent months and wish them well in the months ahead." More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1110/S00649/christchurch-airport-receives-unique-international-award.htm Back to top
29 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
… and One for Wellington Airport Wellington International Airport has been named Australasia's leading airport at the recent World Travel Awards (these awards celebrate excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry, as voted on by travel agents). The capital's airport has been nominated for the title each year since 2007, but this is the first win. Sydney has traditionally dominated the award, only losing it once in the last eight years to Auckland in 2009. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1109/S00871/wellington-airport-on-top-down-under.htm Back to top
Justice/The Law Bail Laws: Big Changes Coming NZ’s bail laws are to be changed to: •
“reverse the burden of proof”, so defendants arrested for serious crimes will have to prove they don’t pose a risk to the public to be granted bail (before this it was up to the prosecution to prove a person was a risk while out on bail);
•
make it clear in legislation that bail will not be granted in return for information;
•
increase the penalty for failure to answer Police bail to up to three months’ imprisonment, on top of the current fine of up to $1000;
•
reduce the number of situations where a defendant is “bailable as of right”;
•
put the electronically monitored bail system into legislation;
•
make defendants aged 17-19 years old - who have previously served a prison sentence - subject to the standard (adult) tests for bail, rather than the strong presumption in favour of bail that currently applies; and
•
enable the court to detain defendants under 17 years of age who significantly or repetitively breach bail conditions, and enable police to take young defendants in breach of court-imposed curfews to a place where they will comply with the curfew.
Background information is at http://www.justice.govt.nz/publications/global-publications/b/review-of-aspects-of-the-bail-system/bail-in-new-zealand-reviewing-aspects-ofthe-bail-system-1 Back to top
Changes to Human Rights Commission? A new Bill introduced to Parliament would (amongst other things): •
set up a Disability Rights Commissioner to promote the way NZ puts into practice the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities;
•
change the number of full-time Human Right Commissioners from five fulltime commissioners and up to five parttime commissioners, to no more than 5 commissioners in total;
•
remove designated fulltime and part time commissioners; and
•
change the names of the current two specialised Commissioners - the Race Relations and Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioners – to make them Human Rights Commissioners.
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 30
The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0346/latest/DLM4097506.html?search=ts_bill_human+rights+amendment+bill_resel&p=1 Back to top
Review: Human Rights & Prisons… A review report, “Human Rights and Prisons”, prepared for the Human Rights Commission, points to a number of improvements relating to human rights in prisons since 2004, including: •
bringing human rights considerations into penal legislation, regulations and policies;
•
enabling more prisoners to get involved in vocational/accredited industries as well as in literacy and educational courses;
•
expanding drug and alcohol programmes;
•
developing Units and Programmes that meet the different needs of prisoners;
•
setting up the Mothers with Babies legislation;
•
getting more help for prisoners preparing for release;
•
having better access to volunteers and cultural advisors across institutions; and
•
setting up the Professional Standards Unit within the Department of Corrections.
The report also notes some concerns, including: •
the size of the NZ prison population;
•
old, obsolete, or inadequate facilities continuing to be used;
•
the ongoing issue of prisoners’ rights to health; and
•
the two recent pieces of recently-passed legislation that go against basic human rights principles: the “three strikes” provisions in sentencing, and removing the rights of any prisoner to vote.
More is at http://www.hrc.co.nz/news-and-issues/human-rights-in-new-zealand/human-rights-values-key-to-prisoner-rehabilitation/ Back to top
… & Two New Prisons Bills The Corrections Amendment Bill and the Administration of Community Sentences and Orders Bill make a number of changes to the legislation governing the corrections system, including: •
drug testing and strip-searching procedures, and new disciplinary offences;
•
accelerating the approval process for “authorised items” that prisoners are allowed;
•
allowing prisoner self-employment activities to occur only with approval of the prison manager, and having board payments and other costs deducted from earnings;
•
legally recognising prison health services in law;
•
giving managers of contract prisons more statutory and more delegated powers; and
•
clarifying the law around administration of community sentences and orders.
The Bills are at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0330/latest/DLM4035903.html?search=ts_bill_corrections+amendment+bill_resel&p=1&sr=1 and at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0339/latest/DLM4088203.html?search=ts_bill_administration+of+community+sentences+and+orders+bill_resel&p=1&s r=1 Back to top
31 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Prosecution Services: Review Report A recent Ministry of Justice report describes public prosecution services as generally effective and efficient, but with opportunities for improvements. The report says the Crown Solicitor network is providing an excellent prosecution service that does not need big changes. It also says that, in the prosecution of summary offences, the Police Prosecution Service is performing well, as are the Department of Labour, Customs, the Department of Conservation, Inland Revenue, and the Ministry of Social Development. However, it recommends (amongst other things): •
the Solicitor-General having oversight of the whole prosecution system;
•
improving the information collected by prosecutors, and more actively managing costs;
•
having more prosecution training and more resources for enforcement agencies;
•
improving coordination between enforcement agencies with overlapping responsibilities, particularly those involved in financial regulation; and
•
enforcement agencies and Crown Law reporting annually.
The report is at http://www.justice.govt.nz/policy/justice-system-improvements/review-of-prosecution-services Back to top
A Big Laundry Bill Criminals may have laundered* around $US1.6 trillion in 2009, one fifth of that coming from the illicit drug trade, according to a new report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. The $US1.6 trillion represents 2.7% of global gross domestic product (GDP) in 2009, says the agency. All criminal proceeds, excluding tax evasion, would amount to some $2.1 trillion or 3.6% global GDP in 2009. *Money laundering is the making legitimate of illegally obtained money to hide its true nature or source (typically the drug trade or terrorist activities). Money laundering is done by passing the money secretly through legitimate business channels by means of bank deposits, investments, or transfers from one place (or person) to another. More is at http://www.unodc.org/documents/data-and-analysis/Studies/Illicit_financial_flows_2011_web.pdf Back to top
Parliament/Elections Predicting Election Results: iPredict NZ's online predictions market* iPredict (owned by Victoria University), and www.electionresults.co.nz are sponsoring what is believed to be the world's first television current affairs series based on a predictions market*. The programme screens every weeknight during the election campaign at 7.00 pm on Stratos Television and will be repeated the following morning on Triangle Television at 11.30 am Tuesday to Friday and 11.00 am on Saturdays. It takes daily trading information from iPredict.co.nz to identify the major issues of the day's election campaigning In NZ. A final programme that reports on iPredict's predictive performance will screen following the election on Stratos at 7.00 pm on 28 November. *Predictions markets are made up of a collection of people speculating on a variety of events – for example, exchange averages, election results, commodity prices, quarterly sales results or even such things as gross movie receipts. Because they represent a wide variety of thoughts and opinions - much like the markets as a whole - prediction markets have proven to be quite effective as a prognostic tool for foretelling a result. As a result they have been utilised by a number of large companies - like Google, for example. Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 32
Read more about predictions markets at: http://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/prediction-market.asp#ixzz1cVnoe9iN Back to top
Public Service/Local Authorities Delivering Social Services: Trials A new approach to social service delivery for young people (the Social Sector Trials) is being trialled. It involves the Ministries of Social Development, Justice, Education and Health, and the NZ Police working together to see how well community organisations (NGOs) and community leaders can use resources from these government agencies to effect positive change in a community. Being carried out in Kawerau, Tokoroa, Te Kuiti, Taumarunui, Levin and Gore, the trails aim to: •
reduce truancy rates;
•
reduce offending by young people;
•
reduce levels of alcohol and other drug abuse by young people; and
•
increase the number of young people in education, training and employment.
In a recent development (in Gore) the Community Networking Trust, an NGO, has been contracted to plan social service delivery for young people, manage contracts, oversee government agency staff, develop networks, engage with the community, and influence social services under their direct control. More is at http://www.google.co.nz/search?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cnt.org.nz%2Fdocuments%2FCommunity_Networking_Trust_Booklet_63811.pdf+&ie=utf-8&oe=utf8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a Back to top
Local Authority Elections: New Bill A newly-introduced Local Electoral Amendment Bill would: •
enable city and district councils to set ward boundaries that take into account recognisable communities and geographic features;
•
change rules governing candidate nomination documentation;
•
make information about voting documents available to electors; and
•
change the way votes are processed.
It would apply to local authority elections for district and city councils, regional councils, local and community boards, district health boards, and licensing trusts. The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0340/9.0/DLM4088505.html Back to top
33 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Not-For-Profits Multi-Year Lottery Community Grants Coming… Lottery Community committees will soon accept multi-year grant applications from organisations with an established track record of delivering services and activities that address community needs. Multi-year grants will be made available to applicants applying to the Lottery Regional Community Committee meetings in June 2012 (closing date 29 February 2012), and the National Community Committee meeting in October 2012 (closing date 2 May 2012). The multi-year grants will be made for either ongoing operational costs or one-off project costs. A multi-year grant, for up to three years, must contribute to the delivery of an activity, project or service that provides a community benefit that would otherwise not be possible with only one year’s funding. More is at http://www.communitymatters.govt.nz/Funding-and-grants---Lottery-grants---Lottery-Community---Multi-year-funding Back to top
… & 2012/13 Lottery Closing Dates: Changes Lottery committee closing and meeting dates for 2012/13 have been announced and include changes for several committees: •
Health Research applications will now close in September;
•
Community Sector Research applications will now close in August;
•
Environment and Heritage will hold two funding rounds per year, with applications closing in November and May;
•
National Community will hold two funding rounds per year, with applications closing in May and October; and
•
Regional Community Committees will hold two funding rounds per year from 2013/14, with applications closing in March and November.
Three funding rounds will be held in 2012, to help applicants transition to the new schedule. The changes have been made to help the Lottery Grants Board make sure Lottery funding is sustainable. The full list of Lottery committee closing and meeting dates is at http://www.communitymatters.govt.nz/Funding-and-grants---Closing-and-meeting-dates Back to top
Community Groups’ Emergency Procedures The Department of Labour and the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) have designed a set of forms to help community organisations identify and plan for emergencies in the event of a disaster. There are also emergency procedure templates for general workplaces covering natural disasters, fire, chemical spills, LPG gas leaks, CPR, and first aid. The Health and Safety in Employment Act 1992 requires all employers to plan for an emergency situation and make sure employees know about them. The plans will help with accessing information about staff, volunteers, beneficiaries to make sure they are ok, and also get hold of supplies and assets. Keeping electronic and hardcopy backup files of essential information is just one vital part of the plan, including where you will keep relevant information, and where emergency equipment is stored. The Emergency Response charts are at http://www.epa.govt.nz/Publications/ERMA-Flip-Chart.pdf Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 34
Recognising Community Leaders Youth unemployment, Maori youth development, and teen parenting are some of the social issues which will be tackled by the recipients of the Vodafone NZ Foundation World of Difference Programme for 2012. This programme supports participants financially and professionally while they work for a NZ youth charity for one year. The aim is to strengthen the charity’s ability to work in the community both now and in the future. Some people participate in the World of Difference Programme so they can focus on a significant new project for a youth charity they’re already involved with. Others participate so they can leave their current job to work with a youth charity to help with an important project. In the last nine years 58 NZers have won a Vodafone World of Difference Award. The 2012 World of Difference participants are: •
Darna Appleyard - Project Manager, Te Rau Aroha Trust (Waitakere);
•
Grace Taylor - Project Leader, Action Education Incorporated (Manukau);
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James Widgery - Project Manager, VisionWest Community Trust (Waitakere);
•
Junior Atua-Tavai - Young Dads Support Services Coordinator, HealthWEST Te Puna Manawa Community Services (Waitakere);
•
Laurie Durand - Project Manager, Rotorua Youth Centre Trust (Rotorua);
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Simon Britten - Commercial Manager, Te Ora Hou Otautahi Incorporated (Canterbury); and
•
Tina McColgan - Social and Health Manager, Murihiku Young Parents' Learning Centre Trust (Invercargill).
For more information see www.vodafonenzfoundation.org.nz Back to top
Business NZ Business Snapshot: Mixed Picture There were just over 470,000 businesses in NZ at February 2011, down 0.6% from February 2010. While this is the second consecutive annual decrease in the number of businesses recorded, it is smaller than the 1.5% decrease between February 2009 and 2010. New business start-ups were down 9.1%, and business closures were down 7.9%. Overall, 4 in 5 business start-ups survive their first year in operation, a figure which has remained stable over time. Larger businesses with 100 or more employees recorded an increase in paid employees of 1.8%, while decreases were recorded for businesses with one to five employees (down 1.6%) and those with six to nine employees (down 1.2%). Survival rates for larger businesses were also higher. Auckland was the only region to record an increase in the number of business locations (in geographic units) - a marginal 0.5%. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/businesses/business_characteristics/NZBusinessDemographyStatistics_MRFeb11.aspx Back to top
35 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
NZ Trade Growth to 2025 New Zealand’s trade over the next 15 years looks set to grow by 83%, outperforming world trade growth - which looks set to grow at the slower pace of 73% during the same period, according to HSBC (the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation) in its new quarterly global forecast HSBC Trade Connections. Over the next 15 years this growth in trade represents an increase from the current value of USD$52.86 billion to USD$96.97 billion in 2025. At the end of 2010, NZ’s five largest export partners were Australia, China, the USA, Japan, and Germany. Trade with all five countries is predicted to grow in volume terms over the next 15 years with the exception of Japan. Australia looks set to remain our largest trading partner by value in 2025, increasing in total trade from USD$12.6billion to USD$17.3 billion – an increase of 37.3% over the next 15 years. In addition, far stronger trade routes look set to emerge with Argentina, China, India, and Indonesia, reflecting the importance of NZ as an agricultural producer with strong trade routes to Asia and South America. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1110/S00349/nz-trade-set-to-outperform-world-trade-growth-by-2025.htm Back to top
Exports Value Down: “Big Picture” Still Positive The seasonally adjusted value of exported goods decreased 3.0% in the September 2011 quarter. Falls in the values of meat, dairy products, and logs accounted for most of the decrease, though the quantities of these commodities were similar to the June 2011 quarter. The trend for goods exported (this reflects the long-term behaviour in export values) remains near its highest ever level, which was reached in the previous quarter. The seasonally adjusted value of imported goods decreased 3.2% in the September 2011 quarter, led by intermediate goods (these include transport equipment parts and accessories, and automotive diesel). The trend for imported goods is still below its overall peak in the September 2008 quarter. The seasonally adjusted trade balance for the September 2011 quarter was a surplus of $340 million, equivalent to 2.9% of exports. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/industry_sectors/imports_and_exports/OverseasMerchandiseTrade_MRSep11.aspx Back to top
Companies & Limited Partnerships Bill… A recently-introduced Companies and Limited Partnerships Amendment Bill would (amongst other things): •
require every company registered in NZ to have a resident agent if there is no director living in NZ or in a NZapproved place (the agent would be liable if companies breach Companies Act record-keeping and filing requirements);
•
give the Registrar of Companies the power to investigate and deal with non-compliance with the Companies Act;
•
allow for companies that provide inaccurate information or fail to comply with the Act to be removed from the register, and ban directors of these companies from managing any company for up to five years;
•
make changes to the Limited Partnerships Act, so people misusing NZ companies can’t avoid the new rules by registering limited partnerships instead;
•
have a better fit between the Companies Act and the Takeovers Code, so shareholders understand the effect that changes in company control will have on the value of their shares; and
•
introduce criminal offences for directors who commit a serious breach of their duties to act in good faith.
The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0344/latest/DLM4094904.html?search=ts_bill_companies+and+limited+partnerships_resel&p=1&sr=1
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 36
…& “Hard-core Cartel Behaviour” Bill This recently-introduced Bill covers illegal anti-competitive behaviour such as fixing prices, restricting output, allocating markets, and rigging bids. It sets out: •
criminal sanctions for people (seven years imprisonment) and companies (the same as now: a fine set at the greater of either $10 million or three times the value of the commercial gain, or 10% of annual turnover);
•
a broad collaborative activity exemption aimed at providing clear guidelines for businesses that want to enter into collaborative, efficiency-enhancing arrangements; and
•
a system to help businesses check whether a proposed collaboration arrangement might be in breach.
Hard-core cartel agreements are said to be the most harmful form of anti-competitive behaviour. Cartels are illegal agreements among competitors to fix prices, allocate markets or customers, rig bids, or reduce supply. They harm both consumers and businesses by raising prices and restricting output. The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0341/latest/DLM4090003.html?search=ts_bill_commerce+(cartels+and+other+matters)_resel&p=1&sr=1 Back to top
Doing Business in NZ: Report New Zealand was ranked third out of 183 economies in a new report from IFC and the World Bank that measures the ease of doing business. The report, “Doing Business 2012: Doing Business in a More Transparent World” also ranked NZ as the world’s easiest place to start a business. More is at http://www.doingbusiness.org/rankings Back to top
Connecting Entrepreneurs with Businesses A new “Wynyard Quarter Innovation Precinct” planned for Auckland aims to house business incubators, research and development institutions, and also business development providers. The idea is to connect NZ entrepreneurs and businesses to international investors and partners. The facility will also be a “landing pad” for overseas investors looking to connect with NZ companies. More is at http://www.msi.govt.nz/news/innovationprecinct Back to top
How ASEAN Views NZ’s Place in Asia… This Asia NZ report says that NZ is now accepted economically and geopolitically as part of the Asian region by the ASEAN countries. NZ’s way with “soft power”* is seen as being a positive force by ASEAN and Southeast Asia. However, the report goes on to say that because stability in Southeast Asia is vital for NZ’s security, this country needs to be aware of events in the region and putting more resources into its relations with ASEAN. *If power is the capacity to do things and to affect the behaviour of others to make those things happen, “soft power” is getting what you want without having use coercion. More is at http://www.asianz.org.nz/sites/asianz.org.nz/files/Outlook_Asean%27s_perspective_of_NZ%27s_place.pdf Back to top
37 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
… & Knowing the Neighbours Asia NZ’s Outlook report, “Getting to Know the Neighbours,” suggests that many NZ companies lack the management skills to make the most of current trade and investment opportunities in Asia. The report, the first in a series, outlines the rapid development of Asian economies, the opportunities this has created, and identifies key skills NZ businesses need in order to prosper in Asia. More is at http://www.asianz.org.nz/our-work/knowledge-and-research/outlook-series#Neighbours Back to top
Third NZ/Chinese Agreement: Chinese Taipei NZ and Chinese Taipei* have agreed to explore the feasibility of setting up an economic cooperation agreement. NZ signed a FTA with China in 2008 and a Closer Economic Partnership with Hong Kong in 2010. *Chinese Taipei refers to “the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu”. In the year ended December 2010 Chinese Taipei was NZ’s 8th largest goods export market with direct exports totally $897 million. Milk powder, frozen beef, butter, fresh fruit, sheep meat, and cheese are NZ’s largest exports. Chinese Taipei’s major direct exports to NZ include petroleum, stainless steel, bicycles, computers, and telephone equipment. Imports to NZ from Chinese Taipei totalled $732 million in 2010. More is at http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/minister-welcomes-nzcioteco-joint-press-release Back to top
NZ Inc India Strategy A new NZ Inc India Strategy aims to bring government agencies together to focus on building trade with India, and also to build economic, political, and diplomatic ties. The strategy outlines why NZ businesses should be looking towards India, and offers information on doing business there. Goals include (amongst others) negotiating the FTA, and developing links in areas like agri-tech and high-value manufacturing and technologies. Similar strategies are being developed on China, the US, Australia, South East Asia, Middle East, and the European Union. A publication called Opening Doors to India is at www.nzincstrategy.mfat.govt.nz Back to top
NZ-South Africa Trade Potential: Study A joint NZ-South Africa study of trade trends between NZ and South Africa describes the diversity and the potential of NZ-South Africa trade and investment. It shows that trade between NZ and South Africa was worth NZ$359 million in 2010. NZ’s top export to South Africa in recent years has been coal, and major imports from South Africa include motor vehicles and paper. A Joint Ministerial Statement is at http://www.beehive.govt.nz/sites/all/files/JointMinisterialStatement.pdf Back to top
Business-NGO Partnership Tackling Abuse Shine, the nation's largest domestic abuse organisation, has teamed up with fashion label Verge to bring attention to domestic abuse. Fashion Tee Shirts will be sold through Verge retailers nationwide. Verge and its retailers will be donating 100% of the profits to the Shine Helpline, a service which provides critical support for individuals struggling with physical and psychological abuse. The aim is to raise in excess of $55,000 for the Shine Helpline.
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 38
The Tee Shirts will be available to 31 January 2012. The recommended retail price of these shirts is $50. For more information and a list of participating stockists, visit www.verge.co.nz Back to top
A Different Kind of Corporation in California Recently, California enacted a new kind of law that creates two new classes of corporations legally required to work at making a positive impact on society and the environment. Companies can now file as "Benefit Corporations," which by law means they must take the environment, community, employees and suppliers into account when they make business decisions. The new law also creates “Flexible Purpose Corporations” – for companies that want to focus on a specific mission that benefits society in addition to profits. More is at http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/index.cfm/go/news.display/id/23027?utm_source=Sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_term=Enewsletter&utm_campaign=Sustainable Business.com%20Update%3A%2010%2F17%2F11 Back to top
Money Matters Major Changes to Credit Reporting… Major changes to credit reporting – that is, reporting on a person’s or company's past borrowing and repayment history - come into force on 1 April 2012. They are included in amendments to the Credit Reporting Privacy Code, and they include: •
allowing ongoing collection and reporting of a person’s repayment history information*;
•
enabling victims of fraud to have their credit information suppressed (making it harder for fraudsters to obtain credit accounts in someone else’s name);
•
permitting credit reporters to pre-screen the list of, for example, banks, credit agencies;
•
introducing a $100 limit for listing credit defaults (i.e., non-payments);
•
providing more safeguards for people who act as guarantors;
•
helping make sure that people shopping around for credit are not penalised for that in their credit score; and
•
requiring credit reporters to show they are complying with the law.
The rule changes will affect almost all adult NZers. *repayment history information: under the code, this information shows whether a repayment is due on a credit account and, if so, whether or not an individual has paid it. So, whether you meet, or miss, your monthly payments on your credit card, mortgage payment – and from 1 April also your phone account or power bill - this will end up on credit reporters’ databases, and be on your credit report. **Under the code, pre-screening is only able to be carried out by a lender to remove the names of people who they consider should not be offered further credit. More is at http://privacy.org.nz/media-release-major-changes-to-credit-reporting-announced/. Information on the amendments to the code is at http://privacy.org.nz/creditreporting-privacy-code-amendment-no-5/ Back to top
39 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
… & Credit Reporting: Consumers Rights A new Summary of Credit Reporting Rights (published in several languages) was recently released by the Privacy Commissioner’s Office. This gives consumers a quick and clear overview of their rights and how to exercise them. The summary explains: •
who can access your credit report and on what basis;
•
how to request a copy of your credit report (consumers can access their credit record without charge);
•
how to dispute information on your credit report (errors should be promptly corrected); and
•
how to complain if you think there is a problem.
Credit reporters have to display the summary on their websites, and provide it to people in certain circumstances, including when responding to a person’s request for a copy of their credit report. Download a copy of the Summary of Rights from http://privacy.org.nz/summary-of-rights/ Back to top
Latest Growth Estimates from Treasury In its pre-election update of the Government’s accounts and forecasts (called PREFU), Treasury has trimmed its growth outlook for the NZ economy, as the rebuild of Christchurch takes a while to get underway, and trading partner weakness is tipped to cool export prices. Nevertheless, Treasury thinks the economy is performing better this year than expected at Budget time in May, and that the Government remains on track to clear its $18.4 billion deficit by 2014-15. Although it now forecasts the economy to grow 2.3% growth in the current March year - half a percent higher than it forecast six months ago - a 4% spurt it forecast for the following year is now reduced to 3.4%, followed by slightly weaker growth in the following few years. It reckons on growth averaging 2.9% between 2012 and 2016, unemployment falling from 6.5% to 4.7% in that time, and inflation contained between 2 and 3 percent. More is at http://www.treasury.govt.nz/budget/forecasts Back to top
Consumers Cautious Heading into Christmas It seems consumers are putting their credit cards away in the lead up to Christmas. According to the Dun & Bradstreet survey of Consumer Credit Expectations, nearly half of all consumers will use their own savings to pay for additional expenses over Christmas. The survey also found that only 5% planned to apply for a new credit card. Likewise, only 9% of Kiwi consumers plan to apply for a credit limit increase. The agency notes this is an “unusually conservative” approach attitude (compared to previous years) to new lines of credit or limit increases; they put this down to the “turbulent” times that many Kiwis have faced this year. This conservative attitude correlates with other findings: many consumers will avoid holiday spending altogether; with three quarters of consumers saying they had no plans to make a major purchase over the next three months. Of those planning a major purchase, 72% said they would use their savings. However, people still have to find some way to cover what is an expensive time of year for many people. This raises a concern: people who are particularly financially exposed (for example, younger consumers, low income households, and families with children) are continuing to access credit despite the prospect of increasing financial stress. For their part, Dun & Bradstreet report that one in five low income households (<$40K per annum) report their debt levels will rise leading up to Christmas, and over one third expect they will have difficulty meeting credit commitments over Christmas. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1110/S00515/consumers-cautious-heading-into-christmas.htm Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 40
Consumers Price Index Review … Statistics NZ has finished reviewing the goods and services in its consumers price index (CPI*) basket. Three-yearly reviews of the CPI ensure the basket remains a good reflection of household spending patterns (the last review was in 2008). As part of the latest review, goods added to the basket include tablet computers, external computer hard drives, ebooks, and flatbread. Services added include alarm monitoring, and delivery charges. Goods removed from the basket include unflued gas heaters, dictionaries, and envelopes. Based on the household survey (which includes CPI data, as well as other information), Statistics NZ estimates that of every $100 spent by households on goods and services covered by the CPI, $23.55 is spent on housing and household utilities, compared with $22.75 in 2008 (because of higher rent and electricity prices). Food accounts for $18.79 of every $100 spent, compared with $17.83 in 2008, reflecting a 14% rise in food prices over the past three years. Spending on other items declined in relative importance, including transport (down from $16.18 to $15.12 of every $100 spent). * The CPI measures changes in the price of goods and services purchased by households. The changes to the CPI basket track the changing priorities, tastes, lifestyles, and incomes of NZ households, but also what’s on the market and how much it costs. More is at http://www.statistics.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/Corporate/Corporate/CorporateCommunications_MR10Oct2011.aspx Back to top
…CPI: September 2011 Quarter… The consumers price index (CPI) rose 0.4% for the September 2011 quarter, reflecting higher food prices and local authority rates, countered by falls in transport and communication prices. In the year to the September 2011 quarter, the CPI rose 4.6%, including a 2.3% increase in the December 2010 quarter when GST rose from 12.5 to 15%. The main contributors were transport (up 8.8%), food (up 6.2%), housing and household utilities (up 3.7%), and alcoholic beverages and tobacco (up 5.6%). On an annual basis, petrol prices increased (up 18%), while the price of cigarettes and tobacco (up 12%), vegetables (up 18%), purchase of new housing (up 3.7%), electricity (up 4.6%), and local authority rates (up 6.6%) also rose. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/CPI_inflation/ConsumerPriceIndex_MRSep11qtr.aspx Back to top
… & 50 Years of Food The food group of the CPI tracks the changes in food prices faced by households. Over the past 50 years the composition of the food basket has changed, reflecting changes in household spending patterns. Over the years, rhubarb, silverbeet, canned peas, tripe, dripping, rolled oats, and the humble saveloy have all been removed from the basket. They have made way for avocado, alfalfa sprouts, taro, margarine, pasta, energy drinks, soy milk, hummus dips, and chilled fruit juice, among other items. A 2009 informative poster about these changes is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/corporate/corporate/nzae-2009/50-years-of-food.aspx Back to top
41 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Vegetable Prices Fall in September Food prices fell 1.0% in September 2011, but were up 4.7% on a year earlier. Vegetable prices fell 14% in September 2011, continuing their fall from a higher-than-usual peak in July this year. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/prices_indexes/FoodPriceIndex_MRSep11.aspx Back to top
Electronic Card Transactions: September 2011 New Zealanders and visitors to the country spent slightly more (0.2%) on their credit and debit cards in September than compared to August. Trends for the value of retail transactions and total transactions had been increasing since the start of 2009, but have flattened in recent months. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/businesses/business_characteristics/ElectronicCardTransactions_MRSep11.aspx Back to top
Fewer NZ Business Insolvencies, butâ&#x20AC;Ś Credit checking agency Dun & Bradstreet says NZ is now experiencing one of the lowest rates of business insolvency among developed countries it monitors. Strong commodity prices and low interest rates appeared to be key reasons for the number of insolvencies in the September quarter, falling by 20% (670 failures) compared to June 2010 (when there were 850 failures). However, a decline in business conditions in Australia was noted as a cause for concern (given that Australia is our largest two-way trading partner). More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1110/S00322/fewer-nz-business-insolvencies-australian-failures-rising.htm Back to top
Government Super Fund Grows The Government Superannuation Fund returned a surplus after-tax of $335 million for the year ended 30 June 2011, an 11.6% return. This was up from $285 million in 2010. More at http://www.gsfa.govt.nz Back to top
Lost Property Insurance Claims: AA According to AA claims data between June 2010 and May 2011, eyewear (spectacles and sunglasses) accounted for 30% of accidental loss claims, followed by jewellery, hearing aids, and mobile phones. The average cost of a claim for accidental loss or theft has risen. In 2008-2009, the average cost of accidental loss claims was $1,083. In 2010-2011 that rose to $1,380. The most popular items stolen from vehicles are electrical goods, eyewear, laptops, and tools. In 2008-2009 the average cost of a theft from a motor vehicle claim was $1,649. In 2010-2011 that had risen to $1,850. Vehicle break-ins tend to occur late at night or early in the morning. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU1110/S00134/keep-your-eyes-on-the-prize.htm Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 42
Overseas Investment: Latest Information New Zealand's investment in Australia rose to $51 billion at 31 March 2011, according to Statistics NZ. Banks increased lending to their Australian parents, NZ investors purchased shares in Australia, and the value of NZ-owned companies in Australia increased. Of NZ's $164.6 billion investment overseas at 31 March 2011, 57% was held in Australia, the US, and the UK (these three countries were also the source of 67% of all foreign investment in this country, with Australian investors holding $106.9 billion of that total). More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/balance_of_payments/BalanceOfPaymentsYearEnded_MRYe31Mar11.aspx Back to top
Earthquake Levies to Treble Earthquake Commission (EQC) levies will rise early next year to help rebuild the Commission's Natural Disaster Fund (NDF). Insured homeowners currently pay 5c per $100 of insurance cover, up to a maximum of $69 a year (including GST), as part of their insurance premiums. Under the proposed changes, homeowners will pay 15c per $100 of insurance cover, with an annual cap of $207 (including GST). The increase, which will take effect from 1 February 2012, will: •
provide revenue to meet EQC's operating costs;
•
enable EQC to rebuild the NDF to its pre-earthquake level of $6 billion in about 30 years;
•
reduce EQC's estimated $1.2 billion cash shortfall to $490 million; and
•
increase annual levy revenue from about $86 million to about $260 million.
The levy rise will add about $2.65 a week to most homeowners' insurance bill. More including a Q&A section is at http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/eqc-levies-rise-realistically-reflect-costs. A related Cabinet paper is at www.treasury.govt.nz/publications/informationreleases/canterburyearthquakes/eqc Back to top
New Financial Markets Conduct Bill The aim of a (560-page) Financial Markets Conduct Bill is to improve financial market behaviour and restore investor confidence in our financial markets. Provisions in it would: •
replace the requirement for issuers to prepare a prospectus and investment statement with one requiring them to prepare a single product disclosure statement for retail investors;
•
introduce civil penalties of up to $1 million for individuals and $5 million for companies if they make misleading statements in product disclosure statements and advertisements;
•
set up a system of increasing liability - from infringement notices for minor breaches through to criminal penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment, and fines of up to $1 million for individuals and $5 million for companies for the worst conduct;
•
increase the maximum period for prohibiting a person from managing a company from 5 years to 10 years, and allow for orders for an indefinite period;
•
establish licensing systems for fund managers, independent trustees of workplace superannuation schemes, and some other dealers/lenders; and
•
introduce new duties on fund managers and supervisors, and stronger governance requirements for managed investment schemes.
43 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0342/latest/versions.aspx Back to top
Finance Companies in Receivership: Asset Management The Government is setting up a new Crown company to manage the recovery of the remaining assets of six finance companies placed in receivership while they had Crown guarantees. The six are: South Canterbury Finance, Allied Nationwide Finance, Vision Securities, Mascot Finance, Mutual Finance, and Rockforte Finance. The remaining assets that haven't yet attracted buyers are valued at around $350 million. The total amount recovered and repaid to the Crown from the nine receiverships so far is $523 million. About $395 million of this is from South Canterbury Finance. Back to top
DPB Rule Change If you receive a Domestic Purposes Benefit (DPB) for sole parents and your youngest dependent child in your care is aged 6 years or over, you now need to look for at least 15 hours part-time work per week. More on the DPB and Widow’s benefits is at http://www.workandincome.govt.nz/individuals/forms-and-brochures/domestic-purposes-and-widows-benefits.html Back to top
Canterbury’s Economic Health The latest Canterbury economic indicators show: •
business closures in August were the lowest of any month this year;
•
exports and imports from major ports and the airports have improved significantly since the February earthquake and are higher than in August 2010;
•
manufacturing has been expanding since June, and during August expanded at a higher rate than the rest of NZ;
•
job advertisements continue to increase strongly as the recovery gathers pace;
•
net migration from the region remains negative but has been improving since May; and
•
spending remains at 90–95 percent of pre-quake levels.
The indicators are at http://www.beehive.govt.nz/sites/all/files/EconomicIndicatorsPostQuakeOct11.pdf Back to top
Internet & ICT Broadband: Faster, More, Easier Access Kiwis are opting for faster Internet speeds, larger volumes of data, and easier access to the Internet, according to Statistics NZ: •
more data: the number of subscribers on a 20 to 50 gigabyte (GB) monthly data cap plan more than doubled in the last year. In the year ended June 2011, the average subscriber consumed about 9GB of data per month, which is equivalent to watching about 45 hours of streaming video;
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 44
•
faster: the proportion of those with upload speeds of 1.5 megabits per second (Mbps) or more increased by over 70% in the year ended June 2011 (with the most common upload speeds remain between 256 kilobits per second (kbps) and 1.5Mbps); and
•
easier access: cellular, cable, and satellite connections increased by almost 50 percent between June 2010 and June 2011 (additionally, almost 2 million Kiwis used a mobile phone to access the Internet in the three months before 30 June 2011 – reflecting increasing use Internet-accessible devices such as tablets, pocket WiFi, and smartphones).
The total number of broadband subscribers increased 14% since 2010 to almost 1.5 million subscribers. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/industry_sectors/information_technology_and_communications/InternetServiceProviderSurvey_MRJun11.aspx Back to top
Buying Goods Using Mobiles is Made Safer New Zealand’s mobile phone operators (including Vodafone, 2degrees, and Telecom) have agreed to a system that will make it possible for customers to buy low-cost applications and digital content through a safe payment environment (the “Payforit” scheme) on their phone, and have the charge added to their phone bill. Customers using Payforit do not need a credit card or bank account to use the service, nor do they need to sign up or register any details. The whole process can be done using their phone and purchases are charged back to their mobile account. For information about the Payforit Trusted Mobile Payments Framework, go to: www.payforit.org.nz Back to top
Telecom Separates Telecom shareholders have voted in favour of proceeding with structural separation (one of the final procedural steps in the roll out of ultra fast broadband). Telecom’s network arm, Chorus, can now be separated into a standalone company. Chorus is one of four companies rolling out NZ’s ultra-fast broadband network in partnership with the Crown. It will be set up as a wholesale-only provider of ultra-fast broadband, along with the Government’s other partners Enable Networks, Ultra-fast Broadband Limited, and the Whangarei Local Fibre Company. The process of separation will to be finalised through a Court-approved “demerger” (likely to happen by the end of November). Back to top
NZ Children’s Television in 2012 NZ On Air recently announced that over $14 million will be spent on NZ children's television programming to screen in 2012. Twelve children's programmes have received funding, representing over 450 hours of programming for different kinds of young audience. NZ On Air's focus is on providing daily and weekly series for three main audience groups – pre-school, primary, and secondary school -aged children and young people. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU1110/S00131/14m-to-serve-new-zealands-younger-tv-audiences.htm Back to top
45 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Research into Reality TV A recently released report from the Broadcasting Standards Authority (BSA) called “The Real Deal: Experiences of and Attitudes Towards Reality TV” explores expectations viewers have of reality programmes, and it also covers the experiences of participants caught up in filming of these programmes. One of the main findings was that both viewers and participants were somewhat confused abut privacy-related issues. The report’s main recommendation is that the public should have access to clear information about the issues raised, particularly those around people’s rights in relation to privacy, filming, and broadcasting. More is at http://www.bsa.govt.nz/the-real-deal/ Back to top
Fifty Years of Television in NZ… Watching television has been a part of NZers' lives for five decades. For most of that time, the consumers price index (CPI) has tracked changes in the price of buying and hiring television sets, buying television licences, and subscribing to pay television. Kiwis have gone from watching one channel on black and white “consolettes” that cost about $4,500 in today's terms, to watching an array of free-to-air and pay channels today on flat-panel colour television sets that cost an average of $1,500. Within three years of the first television broadcast on 1 June 1960, buying a television set had become a significant element of household spending. Television sets were added to the CPI basket in 1966. More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/cpi_inflation/fifty-years-of-watching-the-box.aspx#from Back to top
… Where Have all the TVs Gone? The recent Great TV Take Back campaign run by the Warehouse netted 28,000 unwanted TVs for free recycling in just two weeks – far exceeding expectations. The TVs collected will be recycled by companies (with the recycling monitored by the Ministry for the Environment). Out of the 28,000 TVs that were taken to the Warehouse stores, 6000 were collected in Christchurch, with many damaged in the earthquakes. The Great TV Take Back was a pilot campaign. Other electrical retailers have since been invited to join the scheme and provide opportunities for recycling electronic waste, particularly TVs. Back to top
A Handful of Sites The office of the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment’s latest annual report is at http://www.pce.parliament.nz/publications/all-publications/annual-report-for-the-year-ended-30-june-2011/ The former Apple executive who spearheaded the development of the iPod and iPhone is looking to change the way people heat and cool their homes. The exec’s company, Nest Labs, is developing a thermostat capable of learning about homeowners' habits and energy needs to save energy and money. More is at http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/25/technology/at-nest-labs-ex-apple-leaders-remake-the-thermostat.html A hypnotic little video of 500 years of women in art can be viewed at http://www.wimp.com/womenart/ A berry found in western Africa has the bizarre property of making sour foods such as vinegar and limes taste as sweet as candy. Researchers are racing to unlock the berry's secrets, which might lead to a safe, all-natural, calorie-free sweetener. Read more at http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2011/09/sweet-sour-berry/
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 46
Reports on NZ’s food and beverage industry (F&B) were recently released. They can be found at www.foodandbeverage.govt.nz A new NASA video summarises the 3-year trek of Mars Rover. For more information and a link to video go to http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/mer/index.html For 16th century business leaders, a reusable "table" (basically, a writing pad you could use again and again) was a kind of smartphone equivalent. Cheaper and more convenient than paper, they were status symbols and practical tools for bosses trying to cope with the huge amounts of information made available by the invention of the printing press. Read more at http://www.wired.com/wiredenterprise/2011/10/hamlets-blackberry Certain body movements can help spark interest and engage your audience during a presentation. More is at http://www.cnbc.com/id/44958865 A recent New Scientist article reports on a study that analysed the relationships between 43,000 transnational corporations, and identified a relatively small group of companies (147), mainly banks, with disproportionate power over the global economy. More is at http://www.newscientist.com/article/mg21228354.500-revealed--the-capitalist-networkthat-runs-the-world.html Some interesting ideas for questions to ask job candidates that are a little bit out of the box, but highly illuminating nevertheless (for example, what is your favourite restaurant?), can be found at http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/best-job-interview-questions-1820/ Denmark has introduced a new tax on foods that are high in saturated fat, including pizza, and many dairy products and processed foods. Some consumers are hoarding high-fat foods to put off having to pay the surcharge, which is believed to be the world's first such "fat tax." Read more at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-15137948 Five common website mistakes, and what you can do to fix them, can be found at http://www.networksolutions.com/smallbusiness/2011/10/5-website-mistakes-to-avoid-%e2%80%93-and-how-to-fixthem/ The key to success isn't how long and hard you work, it's how well you take advantage of spare moments to recharge. More is at http://blog.brazencareerist.com/2011/10/18/forget-time-management-energy-management-is-what-matters/ The University of Canterbury’s (UC’s) new CEISMIC (Canterbury Earthquake Digital Archive) is now accepting earthquake stories, images and media. The CEISMIC consortium includes UC, the National Library, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Christchurch City Libraries, CERA, Te Papa, Canterbury Museum, NZ On Screen and the Ngai Tahu Research Centre. More is at www.ceismic.org.nz National Library website TREATY 2 U tells the story of the Treaty of Waitangi, covering the events that led up to the Treaty, what is written in the documents, and the differences between the Maori and English versions. It also lists ten sites recommended for coverage of the subject. Go to http://www.treaty2u.govt.nz/cool-stuff/recommendedwebsites/index.htm According to Newsweek's 2011 Global Women's Progress Report, NZ is the 11th “best place to be a woman” in the world. Go to http://www.thegreatinitiative.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Newsweek-September-2011.pdf The IMF (International Monetary Fund) says inequality is a bad idea. More is at http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/fandd/2011/09/index.htm SEEK NZ says there is a 30% annual increase in job postings with a salaries of NZ$100,000 or more. They even have a special spot on their website. Jobs are in IT, technology, engineering, accounting, sales and health care and many are in Auckland and Canterbury. More is at http://www.seek.co.nz/100kjobs?cid=sk:main:nz:tab:100k It’s just got easier for borrowers and researchers to access the contents of many public libraries, thanks to a new service called Beta being coordinated by the National Library of NZ. Using it, you can now also search through the full collections of the National Library and the Alexander Turnbull Library, access some library services. Get started with simple, up-to-date research guides at Beta: http://beta.natlib.govt.nz/ The Mix & Mash team supreme winners were Candy Elsmore - for her beautiful digital story 'A Grand Mother', and Alex Gibson & Graham Jenson - for their smart interactive visualisation '100 Companies'. See all the winning entries on Mix & Mash at http://mixandmash.org.nz/ The Foundation for Arable Research (FAR) has recently launched its new website at http://www.far.org.nz/index.php/. The foundation focuses on arable (crop growing) research. Its funding comes from a compulsory levy collected from arable growers, grants, co-operative research, and information sales.
47 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
The National Council of Women (NCW) is campaigning to remove Facebook pages that promote violence against women. They have a petition calling for Facebook to remove pages which promote sexual and other violence against women. The petition is at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/violenceagainstwomenonfacebook/ Back to top
Treaty Matters New Home for Our Treaty? Archives NZ (ANZ) is considering displaying the original 1840 Treaty of Waitangi in a public space at the refurbished National Library building. The Treaty is currently on display at the Archives NZ building on Mulgrave Street in Wellington. ANZ says a purpose-built centre with extended weekend hours would give more NZers and overseas visitors the chance to learn more about NZ’s heritage. Currently around 27,000 people visit ANZ’s Wellington office of Archives NZ each year - the new National Library building is expected to attract around 200,000 visitors. Ongoing care and responsibility for the Treaty document would remain with ANZ. Back to top
Te Kohanga Reo Trust: Urgent Treaty Claim The Waitangi Tribunal is to urgently hear the Te Kohanga Reo (literally, language nest) National Trust Board’s claim that the Crown has unilaterally treated kohanga reo as early childhood education providers, and failed to recognise the kaupapa (purpose and goals) of kohanga reo. The hearing will consider the treatment of kohanga reo by the Crown, specifically whether the Crown has breached its duties under the Treaty of Waitangi to: actively protect taonga te reo and tikanga Maori and kohanga reo; allow the Trust Board and kohanga reo to develop them; allow the Trust Board to exercise its role as kaitiaki (protector and conserver) of kohanga reo kaupapa; exercise kawanatanga (authority) appropriately; act in accordance with the principle of partnership; make informed decisions in relation to kohanga reo; treat the Trust Board and kohanga reo fairly and not subject them to discrimination; and take special measures to ensure Maori attain equality with other citizens of NZ. It is set to take place in February 2012. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/ED1110/S00109/urgent-waitangi-tribunal-hearing-for-kohanga-reo.htm Back to top
Whanganui River: Record of Understanding The Crown and Whanganui iwi have signed a Record of Understanding committing both parties to work together to settle historical grievances associated with the Whanganui River - our longest navigable waterway. The negotiations will include: how the status of the river as a whole will be recognised; how it will be managed (from the mountains to the sea); how the mana of Whanganui iwi in relation to the river will be recognised; how Whanganui iwi will be involved in managing the river alongside the Crown, local government and the wider catchment community; river trustees appointed to protect the health of the river; and possible development of a set of river values to guide future governance of the river. The settlement will preserve public access and have no impact on private property rights. Negotiations are expected to begin in early 2012. Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 48
Oruaiti/Point Dorset: New Managers, New Name Wellington City Council’s Strategy and Policy Committee has unanimously adopted a new management plan for the (ex-naval) Point Dorset Reserve, overlooking the harbour entrance between Seatoun and Breaker Bay. It will be the first public reserve in the Capital to be jointly managed by the City Council and mana whenua - Taranaki Whanui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika. The area will also become known as Oruaiti Reserve, and both its natural habitat (a breeding ground for penguins) and the defence heritage of the area will be preserved. Back to top
Arts, Culture & Media Arts & Culture on TV in 2012 NZ On Air is investing over $8 million dollars in 147 hours of special interest and arts/culture programmes to screen across five free-to-air channels. Along with returning series, three brand new series that will introduce many different types of Kiwi to our screens. For instance: •
“Neighbourhood” will focus on an interesting community in NZ where, each week, one resident will introduce the audience to their patch and its variety of neighbours;
•
“Both Worlds” will explore the experience of young immigrants and the children of immigrants; and
•
"Showtime” will go behind the scenes of two different community theatre productions, showing us the blood, sweat and tears involved in creating wonderful theatrical experience.
Returning to the screen next year are the highly successful series Attitude and The Nutters' Club, for people interested in disability issues, Tagata Pasifika and Fresh for Pacific audiences, Rural Delivery for the farming community, and the venerable Praise Be. More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/CU1110/S00182/bringing-diversity-to-the-screen-in-2012.htm Back to top
NZ-related British Colonies Information Online A significant reserve of NZ’s history (which has not had a high profile up to now) is now available online. The British Parliamentary Papers – “Colonies: New Zealand” are now available in digital form. They include reports, statutes, letters, and other documents sent between the colony and the British Colonial Office in London spanning 40 years between 1830 and 1870. Subjects vary greatly; from the behaviour of Governor Hobson, land sales, military clothing for pensioned soldiers, and journeys around the country (there are some detailed descriptions). There are maps as well. More is at http://digital.liby.waikato.ac.nz/bppnz Back to top
49 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
NZ’s Best Designs… Winners in NZ’s 2011 Best Design Awards (organised by the Designers Institute of NZ) are: a sleek and sexy racing bike, a humane possum trap, a rock, an airport, a tea towel in the shape of a dead chook, a giant rubber ducky, a bank in a box, and a website allowing petrol heads to live out their dreams online. A record beating 812 designs were received in this year's awards. The winning designs are at www.bestawards.co.nz Back to top
…& The Booker Prize Goes to… …English resident Julian Barnes for his first work in six years “The Sense of an Ending” (published by Jonathan Cape). The favourite to win this year's £50,000 Man Booker Prize for Fiction since the shortlist announcement on 6 September, he has been short-listed three times in the past for Arthur and George (2005), England, England (1998), and Flaubert's Parrot (1984). Back to top
Rural Women NZ Journalism Award Winner NZX Agri journalist Rebecca Harper has taken the Rural Women NZ Journalism Award for two articles she wrote in Young Country magazine: a story about Erin Reed who took out the Good Keen Girl Competition at the National Fieldays, and one on the former equestrian Catriona Williams, founder of the Catwalk Trust. Jon Morgan was runner up. Back to top
CNZ Pacific Arts Committee: Nominations Sought Creative NZ (CNZ) is calling for nominations for representatives from the Cook Islands and Tokelau communities, for its Pacific Arts Committee. This committee provides advice and makes funding recommendations to CNZ's Arts Board. It meets four times a year and is made up of representatives from the seven main Pacific Islands groups: Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Niue, Cook Islands, Tokelau, Tuvalu, and the chair (a member of CNZ’s Arts Board). Applications close on 19 November, 2011. More information/nomination forms are at http://www.creativenz.govt.nz/en/news/call-for-nominations-cook-islands-and-tokelaurepresentatives-for-pacific-arts-committee Back to top
Balancing Maori & Western Knowledge “Nga Tini Whetu: Navigating Maori Futures” by Mason Durie has just been launched at Te Aute College. The work combines 25 written and presented papers from Mason’s 2004-10 work and “explores the complexities of balancing Maori perspective with western knowledge, with a strong emphasis on achieving the best outcomes for Maori people.” Royalties go to Te Aute College. More is at http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/about-massey/news/article.cfm?mnarticle_uuid=BFBCC18E-A09A-FD9E-35AB-6FCC0F684272#.Too4j7hpyrQ.facebook Back to top
UNESCO’s New Artist of Peace The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has officially designated French artist Hedva Ser as an Artist for Peace in recognition of her contribution to the spirit of tolerance and bringing cultures closer together. Through exhibitions of sculpture, tapestry, and jewellery all over the world, Ms. Ser has “placed her art at the service of peace”, and her sculpture, “Tree of Peace,” has become a peace emblem.
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 50
Other UNESCO Artists for Peace include Cameroonian musician Manu Dibango, musician Gilberto Gil of Brazil, Portuguese actress/singer Maria de Medeiros, and author Frankétienne of Haiti. More is at http://www.unesco.org/new/en/media-services/single-view/news/french_sculptor_and_painter_hedva_ser_named_unesco_artist_for_peace/ Back to top
Fish & Ships Report Sick Fish to MAF The Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) says that a juvenile trout from the Taieri River in Otago has tested positive for the same bacterial disease that is causing illness and death in kanakana (lamprey) in Southland. The Aeromonas bacterium involved does not pose a direct risk to human health. However, MAF says people should not eat any fish that appear unusual or unhealthy. Fish with the bacterial illness are likely to have red and/or swollen fins and red and/or swollen marks that look like bruises or blood clots. Report sick or dead fish to MAF’s pest and disease hotline 0800 80 99 66. More is at http://www.maf.govt.nz/news-resources/news/second-find-of-bacterial-fish-disease Back to top
Science & Technology Marsden Fund Funding A total of 88 research projects have been allocated $53.8 million of funding in this year's Marsden Fund grants. Highlights from the 2011 funding round include projects that will give answers to the questions: "Are the fossils found in NZ the direct ancestors of our distinctive modern flora and fauna?"; "Did Moriori settle the Chathams directly from East Polynesia, bypassing NZ, or did they visit mainland NZ on the way?"; and "What are the mechanisms and conditions under the Earth's crust that cause big earthquakes?" The Marsden Fund enables NZ’s best researchers to explore their ideas. It supports projects in the sciences, technology, engineering and maths, social sciences and the humanities. The fund is administered by the Royal Society of NZ on behalf of the government. More at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/SC1110/S00018/538-million-awarded-to-marsden-fund-researchers.htm Back to top
NZ Wave Power Project: Funding Boost A scheme to power Stewart Island through entirely renewable means is a step closer with the news that it has received $312,000 from the NZ Government's Marine Energy Deployment Fund. The project, a collaboration between Norwegian-headquartered wave developer (Langlee Wave Power) and NZ based Tangaroa Energy, aims to help the 400 strong island population become less reliant on diesel generators and ultimately achieve self-sufficiency through green energy. There are plans for a test device to be deployed off Stewart Island in 2013.
51 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
More is at http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/SC1110/S00045/funding-boost-for-new-zealand-wave-power-project.htm Back to top
Low Vitamin B12 May Affect Thinking Older people with low blood levels of vitamin B12 markers may be more likely to have lower brain volumes and have problems with their thinking skills. Foods that come from animals, including fish, meat, especially liver, milk, eggs and poultry are usual sources of vitamin B12. A Chicago study showed that having high levels of four of five markers for vitamin B12 deficiency was associated with having lower scores on cognitive tests and smaller total brain volume. More is at http://www.neurology.org/content/77/13/1276 Back to top
Ancient Art Studio Unearthed In South Africa, researchers have discovered a 100,000-year-old workshop that was apparently used by early humans to make, mix, and store ochre - the earliest form of paint. The new findings demonstrate that early humans in Africa already had an elementary knowledge of chemistry and the ability for long-term planning. More is at http://www.sciencemag.org/content/334/6053/219 Back to top
Big-Brained Birds Benefit from Political Change According to a new international study, the abundance of songbirds with relatively large brains in Eastern Germany and the Czech Republic has increased since 1989-1990. The increase in large-brained songbirds (with better cognitive abilities) is put down to them adapting better to the socio-economic changes of that time, which affected habitats, for example, an increase in green areas and growing volume of parks. More is at http://www.enn.com/top_stories/article/43259 Back to top
General A Typical Summer Likely The NIWA National Climate Centreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outlook for early summer, November 2011 to January 2012, indicates that temperatures are likely to be near average across all of the North Island and average or above average in the South Island. Seasonal rainfalls, soil moisture levels and river flows are all likely to be near normal in all regions of the country. Regional predictions for the next three months: â&#x20AC;˘
Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty: Temperatures are likely to be near average for the time of year. Seasonal rainfall totals, soil moisture levels and river flows are all likely to be in the normal range;
â&#x20AC;˘
Central North Island, Taranaki, Wanganui, Manawatu and Wellington: Temperatures in the early summer period are likely to be near average. Rainfall totals are likely to be in the normal range, as are soil moisture levels and river flows, for the three months as a whole;
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 52
•
Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay, Wairarapa: Temperatures are likely to be average for the time of year, and rainfall is likely to be in the normal range. Soil moisture levels and river flows are likely to be near normal;
•
Nelson, Marlborough, Buller: Temperatures are likely to be average or above average for the time of year, while rainfall is likely to be in the normal range. Soil moisture levels and river flows are also likely to be near normal;
•
West Coast, Alps and Foothills, Inland Otago, Southland: Temperatures are equally likely to be near average or above average for the time of year. Seasonal rainfall totals, soil moisture levels and river flows are all likely to be in the normal range, over the November to January period as a whole; and
•
Coastal Canterbury, East Otago: Temperatures are equally likely to be near average or above average, and rainfall is likely to be in the normal range, over the November to January period as a whole. Soil moisture levels and river flows are likely to be in the normal range.
Back to top
October 2011: Wet and Cloudy In summary: •
rainfall: Very wet in the north and west of the North Island, and the north and east of the South Island. Very dry in Gisborne. Below normal rainfall in the Wairarapa, and across the west and south of the South Island;
•
temperatures: Above average on the West Coast, and northern half of the North Island. Below average for the eastern South Island. Near average elsewhere;
•
sunshine: Extremely cloudy from Taranaki to Wellington, Marlborough and Canterbury, and cloudier than normal in most other regions. Sunny for Invercargill and Balclutha; and
•
soil moisture: Drier than usual for the eastern North Island. Wetter than usual in the north and east of the South Island.
Back to top
New Zealand General Social Survey: 2010… Nearly 9 out of every 10 NZers are satisfied with their lives, according to the NZ General Social Survey 2010, out from April 2010 to March 2011. In addition, the survey showed nearly all NZers (96%) felt they could get support from others in a time of crisis; and more than 90 percent had seen friends and over 80 percent had seen family they didn’t live with, at least once in the last four weeks. However, life satisfaction and other results varied across different population groups: •
younger and older NZers were more likely than people in middle life to say they were satisfied with their lives;
•
unemployed people showed the lowest levels of overall life satisfaction (70% were satisfied); and
•
people living in one-parent family households were less satisfied with their lives than people living in other family types (77% were satisfied).
The survey found overall life satisfaction decreased with lower household incomes, with those with an income less than $30,001 being three times more likely to report feeling dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with their lives. Also: •
48% reported having not enough or just enough money to meet their everyday needs for things such as accommodation, food, clothing and other necessities; and
•
36% reported having major problems relating to the house or flat they live in, mainly relating to heating, dampness and the size of accommodation.
More is at http://www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/people_and_communities/housing/nzgss_MR2010.aspx Back to top
53 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
… & Our Quality of Life in 2011: Average The NZ Institute has marked the country's performance across 16 environmental, social and economic factors that contribute to the quality of life of Kiwis, compared with others in the OECD. The institute graded this country's overall performance as a C, based on factors including life expectancy, education, environmental quality, and health. On three measures the country performs relatively well, with a grade of B for life expectancy, educational achievement and agricultural land per capita. On six measures performance is average with a grade of C, and on seven measures performance is poor with a grade of D (for example, income inequality, household wealth, labour productivity, and Co2 emissions per capita). More is at http://nzinstitute.org/index.php/nzahead Back to top
Human Development: UN Report 2011 This year’s annual UN Human Development Report, “Sustainability and Equity: A Better Future for All”, argues that human development is very closely linked to environmental sustainability, and that this in turn must be approached as a matter of basic social justice for current and future generations. Norway, Australia, and the Netherlands lead the rankings, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Niger and Burundi are at the bottom of the list. New Zealand ranks fifth (after the US). Up to now, there has been good progress. In the past 40 years alone, the countries placed in the lowest 25% of the global rankings improved their overall Human Development Index (HDI) rankings by 82%. If this pace of improvement were to continue, most countries would be able to enjoy the HDI of the top 25% by the year 2050. But, says the report, environmental deterioration threatens to reverse recent progress in human development for the world’s poorest. A press release is at http://www.beta.undp.org/undp/en/home/presscenter/pressreleases/2011/11/02/2011-human-development-report-environmental-trends-threatenglobal-progress-for-the-poor.html, and the report itself is at http://hdr.undp.org/en/reports/global/hdr2011 Back to top
The Gender Gap: Global Report 2011 New Zealand has slipped one place to sixth position in the world in the 2011 Global Gender Gap report that measures 135 countries, falling behind Ireland. The internationally recognised Global Gender Gap Report 2011’s rankings and scores are produced by the World Economic Forum (WEF) to better understand the size of gender-based disparities over time. Globally the 135 countries covered represent more than 90 percent of the world’s population. The report shows that almost 96 percent of the gaps in health outcomes between men and women and almost 93 percent of the gap in educational attainment have closed. However, the gap between men and women on economic participation and political empowerment remains wide: only 59 percent of the economic outcomes gap and only 19 percent of the political outcomes gap has been closed. Read the report at http://www.weforum.org/reports/global-gender-gap-report-2011 Back to top
Royal Commission’s Interim Earthquake Report The interim report of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Building Failure caused by Canterbury Earthquakes has been released. It looks at: seismicity (the frequency or magnitude of earthquake activity in a given area); geotechnical considerations (relating to behaviour of the soil-structure system during strong ground shaking); general performance of un-reinforced masonry buildings; design practice; and new building technologies. The Commission’s recommendations cover things like soil analysis and appropriate foundation designs, changes to some structural design standards and construction practices, and the use of new building technologies. There are also Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 54
recommendations for securing and strengthening unreinforced masonry buildings. The Commission’s final report will be completed in April 2012. The interim report is at http://canterbury.royalcommission.govt.nz/Interim-Report Back to top
Speeding up Urban Planning in Christchurch A new chapter 12A incorporated into the Canterbury Regional Policy Statement aims to help local authorities and developers make land available for post-earthquake residential development. It: identifies areas available for urban development; indicates density of residential areas; provides for businesses; requires local authorities to timeline developments; and provides for form, design and development plans. The changes have been made using the powers available in the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Act 2011. The new chapter 12A can be viewed on the CERA website at www.cera.govt.nz Back to top
Defence Amendment Bill A new Defence Amendment Bill (to be introduced in 2012) follows the recent publication of a Defence White Paper. The Bill would: •
change the way the Chief of Defence Force (CDF) is appointed and managed;
•
give the CDF more authority to directly manage the Navy, Army, and Air Force;
•
set up more collaboration between Defence Force and the Ministry of Defence; and
•
make it easer to appoint people who have been discharged from military service into positions in the civilian staff.
The Bill is at http://www.legislation.govt.nz/bill/government/2011/0348/9.0/DLM4108104.html Back to top
Immigration NZ: Storing Non-NZers’ Photos… Immigration NZ (INZ) is now able to store photos of all non-NZers, and its powers to require fingerprints has been extended in some circumstances. The changes are aimed at protecting people from identity theft, and preventing the misuse of passports or visas. The new technology also will speed up visa application processing. NZ is part of a Five Country Conference biometric programme involving the immigration agencies of NZ, Canada the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom. This enables the various agencies to share biometric data to help confirm identities. A privacy impact assessment has been carried out and is on the INZ website at www.immigration.govt.nz Back to top
… & Overstayers Being Scammed: Safe to Tell Overstayers caught in visa scams of illegal immigration advisers are now able to report the scam in confidence to the Immigration Advisers Authority* (IAA - which has no power to deport overstayers). They can also complain about a licensed immigration adviser. They should write or email the Authority explaining exactly what happened, giving dates and as much evidence as they can. If there is enough evidence, the case may go to court.
55 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
*The Immigration Advisers Authority is responsible for: overseeing the licensing of immigration advisers; receiving complaints about licensed and unlicensed immigration advisers; investigating and taking action against those breaching immigration advice law; and maintaining a register of licensed immigration advisers. To find a licensed immigration adviser or consultant you can use the Authority's online register - http://www.iaa.govt.nz/adviser-register/ - or call freephone 0508 422 422. Report any scams by writing to The Immigration Advisers Authority, Attn: Complaints, PO Box 6222, Auckland 1141, or email info@iaa.govt.nz. Forms are downloadable at http://www.iaa.govt.nz/docs/complaint-about-adviser.pdf or can be posted on request Back to top
Privacy Commissioner Joins Language Line… The Office of the Privacy Commissioner has joined Language Line, the telephone interpreting service. If you have concerns about your personal information, whether it is about your finances, health or any other issue, you can contact the Office of the Privacy Commissioner in any of the 42 languages on offer. How does Language Line Work? Anyone wanting an interpreter simply visits or calls a participating agency. Within minutes, an interpreter is available on the telephone allowing the official and the client to communicate efficiently and with confidentiality. Language Line also offers the clients an opportunity to choose the gender of their interpreter. Language Line is available from Monday to Friday 9am - 6pm and Saturday 9am - 2pm. For a list of participating agencies and their telephone numbers go to http://www.ethnicaffairs.govt.nz/oeawebsite.nsf/wpg_url/language-line-participating-agencies-index Back to top
… & New Privacy Information Cards The Office of the Privacy Commissioner has published information cards to help people protect themselves from crimes of the digital era. The cards offer suggestions on protecting personal information, avoiding scams, identity theft, and keeping online information safe. The advice cards are at http://privacy.org.nz/advice-cards/ Back to top
Website to Help Newcomers Make Friends The NZ Newcomers Network has launched a new website to make it easier for people new to an area to find other newcomers through their local group, and for regions in NZ to start a network (there are now 21 Newcomers Networks throughout the country and more in the pipeline). Newcomers’ groups are all different and include a mix of migrants, former refugees and Kiwis on the move. The activities and events also vary in different locations depending on the interests of the newcomers and the type of community – they might include coffee mornings, potluck meals, walking groups, toddlers groups, craft groups or quiz nights. The NZ Newcomers Network website is at www.newcomers.co.nz Back to top
Lonely Planet-UN Emergency Response Partnership Staff from UN agencies and government and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that provide humanitarian aid will now have free access online to Lonely Planet information. This will enable them to familiarise themselves with a country’s geography, communications systems, history, culture, and essential information, before travelling to help. Lonely Planet’s information is usually only available to paying subscribers. More is at http://reliefweb.int/node/448933
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 56
White Ribbon Day: 25 November White Ribbon Day is the international day when people wear a white ribbon to show that they do not condone violence towards women. White Ribbon Day was started by a men’s movement in Canada in 1991, and it has been officially adopted by the United Nations as its International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The day celebrates the many men willing to show leadership and commitment to promoting safe, healthy relationships within families. It also encourages men to challenge each other on attitudes and behaviour that are abusive. For more about available resources or events go to http://whiteribbon.org.nz/ Back to top
Promoting Sign Language: New Report The Office for Disability Issues has published a report following a review of the NZ Sign Language Act. This suggests that Ministers could promote the use of NZSL by signing a greeting and reminding service providers discrimination against people because they can’t hear is not ok. Government departments should also make sure they use NZSL in public events; have more information about their services in NZSL; know when and how to use an interpreter; and make sure their service providers are trained in how to communicate with Deaf people. Court staff could also be trained in NZSL. The Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Economic Development are working to set up a video remote interpreting service for government departments to cope with a shortage of NZSL interpreters. The report is at http://www.odi.govt.nz/what-we-do/nzsl/review-report-2011/index.html Back to top
1893 NZ Women’s Suffrage Petition Online The 1893 women’s suffrage petition is now available online. There are more than 24,000 NZ women on the database and their names and addresses can be searched to check whether people have family ties to the event. NZ was the first self-governing country in the world to grant all women the right to vote in parliamentary elections (in most other democracies – notably Britain and the United States – women couldn’t vote until after the First World War). To view – or search - the petition, go to www.nzhistory.net.nz/politics/womens-suffrage/petition Back to top
New Journal of Indigenous Scholarship Editors of a new open access NZ called MAI Journal are calling for papers for the first issue, due in April 2012. The journal is published by Nga Pae o te Maramatanga, NZ’s Indigenous Centre of Research Excellence. It will include scholarly articles on indigenous knowledge and development in Aotearoa NZ. The editors welcome papers that critically analyse and address all indigenous issues. Deadline for consideration for the first issue is 31 December 2011. More information is at http://www.journal.mai.ac.nz , or email editors@journal.mai.ac.nz Back to top
National Training Centre for Athletes A new High Performance Sport NZ (HPSNZ) centre for athletes has been set up at the AUT Millennium Campus on Auckland’s North Shore. It has an annual budget of $60 million. The national centre complements regional high performance centres at Wellington and Dunedin, a national cycling centre at Cambridge, a rowing centre at Lake Karapiro, and an ocean water sports centre in Auckland.
57 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Chicken Roast is Kiwi Favourite The old-fashioned chicken roast remains the favourite dinner of Kiwis, a recent Colmar Brunton survey has found. This was followed by chicken and vegetables, steak and vegies, and chicken curries. At No 5 was non-takeaway pizza, spaghetti bolognese was sixth, lasagne seventh, and fish and vege one spot back, with sausage and vegetables, then nachos rounding out the top 10. Less complicated meals were a preference as the week progressed, with people opting for fish and chips on Fridays. The survey also showed one in three people cooking were men, who tended to be more passionate about meal-making (also, men tend to be less budget-orientated). The poll showed 76% of Kiwis were not overly cautious about following the recipe, and meals took an average of 54 minutes to prepare. Finally, 50% of dinners had some sort of dessert, but very few were made at home. More is at http://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/capital-life/in-the-kitchen/5649159/Chicken-roast-is-Kiwi-favourite Back to top
NZ’s Top Fish & Chip Shop Oppies Takeway in Rotorua has been named NZ’s top chip shop after taking out the number one spot in this year’s Best Chip Shop Competition. Regional winners are: •
North to North Shore Region: Oceanz Seafood Silverdale, Whangaparaoa;
•
Auckland Region: Oceanz Seafood Botany, Auckland;
•
Waikato to Hawkes Bay Region: Oppies Takeaway (also overall winner) Rotorua;
•
Manawatu to Wellington Region: Mac’s Fresh Fish and Chips, Masterton;
•
Nelson to Christchurch Region: Victory Square Fish and Chips, Nelson; and
•
Timaru to Southland Region: Ric’s Galley/Portobello, Dunedin.
Back to top
Catchiest Song of All Time? UK scientists believe they've found the catchiest song of all time. The academics concluded there were four key elements in a successful pop song: male vocalists; long, detailed musical phrases; multiple pitch changes in the chorus, and higher male voices being used elsewhere in the song. The top 10 (with hyperlinks through to videos of the songs) are: 1: We are the Champions - Queen (1977); 2: YMCA - The Village People (1978); 3: Fat Lip - Sum 41 (2001); 4: The Final Countdown - Europe (1986); 5: Monster - The Automatic (2006); 6: Ruby - The Kaiser Chiefs (2007); 7: I'm Always Here - Jimi Jamison (1996); 8: Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison (1967); 9: Teenage Dirtbag - Wheatus (2000); and 10: Livin' on a Prayer - Bon Jovi (1986) Back to top
Conferences, Workshops & Events Tree Planting Benefits: Workshop Programme A new three-year programme of regionally-based workshops launching this month aims to help pastoral farmers and their advisors identify the economic and environmental benefits of planting trees on their properties. The programme will also include advice on how best to incorporate appropriate species into land use strategies. Major themes covered by the workshops include: Trees in the farm business; Trees as a vital part of any integrated land management strategy; Integrating trees with livestock management; and Trees and the ETS. The first workshop will be held on 17 November in the Gisborne area, at the Wensleydale woolshed, Whangara, with the theme Trees for Profit. More is at http://www.nzffa.org.nz/article-archive/workshops-promote-diverse-benefits-of-trees-on-farms/
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 58
Maori Economic Development Symposium This research symposium is being held at Te Raukura - Te Wharewaka o Pōneke, Wellington, on 14-15 November. It will examine critical success factors for Maori economic development, including aspirations, capacity and capability, collaboration, and local solutions and opportunities. For more information and to register, visit http://www.maramatanga.ac.nz/news-events/events/npm-research-symposium-2011
Refugee Education Conference The first Refugee Education Conference is being held on 28-29 November at North Shore Campus, Akoranga Drive, Auckland. The conference provides an opportunity for those working with refugees to explore rights- and strengths-based approaches to refugee resettlement. The emphasis will be on education at all levels and stages of the refugee experience in Aotearoa/NZ. More is at http://www.aut.ac.nz/community/aut-in-the-community/centre-for-refugee-education/refugee-education-conference-2011
9th Annual National Interfaith Forum Registrations are now open for this forum, which is being held Saturday 18-19 February 2012 in Hamilton at Church College, Temple View. The theme is “Spiritual Identity in a Secular Society”. More is at http://wifco.wikispaces.com/
Restorative Justice Conference This conference (a joint project between Restorative Justice Aotearoa and Restorative Practices International) is being held at the Amora Hotel, Wellington, on 23-27 November 2011. It is called Whanaungatanga: Building Relationships through Restorative Practices. For more information/to register visit http://www.confer.co.nz/rpi-rjaconf2011/index.htm
“Milksmart” Workshops DairyNZ recently launched their 2011 series of Milksmart workshops on cow behaviour and cow flow with events in Takaka, Murchison, and Greymouth. The workshops will be held in 19 other locations throughout the country in November and December. •
South Island: 16 November [Culverden], 17 November [Oxford], 18 November [Ashburton], 21 November [Oamaru], 22 November [Clydevale], 23 November [Winton]; and
•
North Island: 8 November [Ngatea], 9 November [Tirau], 15 November [Te Awamutu], 16 November [Orini/Whitikahu], 17 November [Whakatane], 18 November [Reporoa], 22 November [Manaia], 23 November [Stratford], 24 November [Palmerston North], 30 November [Takapau], 1 December [Carterton, 6 December [Kerikeri], and 7 December [Whangarei].
Workshops are free-of-charge for levy-paying farmers and their farm managers, however prior registration is essential. For more information and to register go to www.dairynz.co.nz/Milksmart
59 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Talanoa Oceania 2011 Conference Pasifika@Massey of Massey University will host the Talanoa Oceania 2011 Conference at its Albany campus, North Shore, Auckland on 28-30 November 2011.The theme for the conference is “Niu-flavours”. Niu Flavours is about celebrating the achievements of the Pacific Islands (PIs) in diaspora (people living in communities outside their originals homeland). For more, go to http://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/learning/departments/pace/services/conference-services/upcoming-events/talanoa-oceania-2011-conference.cfm
NZ Centre for Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship The first International Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship Conference is to be held at the Albany Campus of Massey University on 1-3 December 2011. Its theme is Extending Theory, Integrating Practice. For more go to http://sierc.massey.ac.nz/conference
Health Informatics Conference & Exhibition The 10th Annual Health Informatics Conference & Exhibition (for people involved in health information technology) is being held in Auckland's Aotea Centre from 23-25 November 2011. The conference theme is “Working together... working smarter“. For more information about the conference see www.hinz.org.nz
NZ Water Safety Conference 2011 This is being held in Wellington on 24-25 November 2011. The conference theme, “Water – Our Fatal Attraction,” acknowledges that NZ has a special relationship with water. Water may sustain, entertain, and enrich but drowning is a major, yet often neglected, cause of accidental death both globally and in this country.” The Conference Programme can be found at www.watersafety2011.org.NZ
Disability Studies “Every Body In” Conference A conference on Disability Studies will be held on 27-30 November 2011, at the University of Otago, Dunedin. The theme is Every Body In. The aim of the conference is to provide a forum for people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences to share their knowledge and research with others. More is at http://www.otago.ac.nz/disabilitystudiesconference/ or email: buchans@xtra.co.nz
Grandparents Raising Grandchildren National Conference The Grandparents Raising Grandchildren National Conference “Growing Stronger Together” is being held at the Ellerslie Events Centre in Auckland on 16-17 November 2011. More is at http://www.grg.org.nz/137799/html/page.html
Maketi Ples: Calling Pacific Islands Artists/Artisans Maketi Ples (the Samoan word for “market” and the Tokpisin word for “place”) will be held from 22 February -11 March 2012 at the Global Gallery, 5 Comber Street Paddington, NSW, Australia. The event promotes the work of Pasifika artists/artisans from the14 Pacific Is. Forum countries (Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Republic of Marshall Islands, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu).
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 60
To participate in the event as an artist, you need to complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) form and return it before 14 November 2011. For more information/EOI forms email L Collins lisa@trishnicolagency.com or tel 0061 (02) 9356 271. Read more at http://www.indesignlive.com/articles/in-review/events/maketi-ples#ixzz1bvZ5HwJu
Pathways, Circuits and Crossroads 2011 Conference This conference offers opportunities to explore the changing nature of immigration in NZ. This year, Pathways is on 1213 December at City Gallery, Civic Square, Wellington. Its theme is Immigration in the Second Decade of the 21st Century: Policies and Practice. More is at http://nz.mg261.mail.yahoo.com/neo/launch?.partner=tnz&.rand=51h9faom8250c
Tonic Conference 2011: Strengthening the Sector This conference for community groups is being held on 24-25 November 2011. The venue is Historic Village, 17th Avenue, Tauranga. Its theme is “Strengthening the Sector”. For more visit http://www.exult.co.nz/index.php?page=workshops&viewworkshop=111
Careers & Transition Education Association (CATE) Conference This is being held at the Rotorua Energy Events Centre, Government Gardens, Rotorua, on 23-25 November 2011. The theme is He hokinga whakamuri, he kokiringa whakamua - looking to our past in order to move forward. For more/to register visit http://www.conference2011.co.nz/
Not-for-Profit Sector Conference This not-for-profit sector conference is being held at Amora Hotel, Wellington on 21-22 November 2011, with additional workshops on 23 November. The focus is on governance, funding and financial management. For more go to http://www.conferenz.co.nz/conferences/nfp-sector?ref=cf&utm_source=Communitynet&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=CE065
Aphasia Association of NZ (AphasiaNZ) Conference This conference is being held at Rydges, Rotorua, on 16-18 November. It is for people who have aphasia and their whanau, family, support people, and health professionals. Aphasia is a language disorder that leaves the intellect intact while eroding the ability to talk, read, write, and understand what is being said (most people develop aphasia as a result of a stroke). For more/to register visit http://www.aphasia.org.nz/uploads/2011%20Conference%20Schedule%20UPDATED.pdf
Social Enterprise Journey Social enterprise balances social mission with making money. Two events are being held on 15 November (Public Health, Newtown Wellington) and 22 November (Mercy Spirituality Centre, Epsom, Auckland). More is at http://www.developmentaction.co.nz/assets/Social-Enterprise-information-sheet.pdf Back to top
61 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Awards & Opportunities Rural Women New Zealand Enterprising Rural Women Award Applications for Rural Women NZ’s Rural Women Enterprising Award 2012 are now open. As well as seeking North Island and South Island winners, this year there is a new category: “Best Online Business”. The supreme award winner will be announced at Rural Women NZ’s national conference in May 2012. Entries close in March 2012. For more information visit www.ruralwomen.org.nz
NZ Dairy Industry Awards These awards are for the Sharemilker/Equity Farmer of the Year, the Farm Manager of the Year, and the Dairy Trainee of the Year. Entrants get the chance to earn a regional or national title and to share in regional and national prize pools. Entries close on 20 December 2011. More is at http://www.dairyindustryawards.co.nz/
Health Training Grants Employers of trainees or students who are enrolled in a Ministry of Health approved national certificate or diploma, directly relevant to the disability support service they provide, can apply for a grant to help with costs relating to their employee’s participation in the course. Applications can be made at any time. Email them to disability@tepou.co.nz. More, including application forms, is at http://www.disabilityworkforce.co.nz/page/43-grantfunding+training-grants
Search for NZ’s Next UNICEF Youth Ambassadors UNICEF NZ is launching a nationwide hunt for four new Youth Ambassadors - young people who want to take action to improve the lives of young people around the world. Each UNICEF Ambassador will connect with young people and their local community to raise awareness about important issues like climate change and HIV/AIDS in developing countries. Ambassadors will work alongside UNICEF NZ to create their own plan, which could include organising local events, speaking at school assemblies, or writing blogs. Applications close 25 November 2011. For further information on how to apply or to learn more about the Youth Ambassador programme visit: http://www.unicef.org.nz/Become-a-Youth-Ambassador
Innovation in Irrigation Award Innovation, discovery, and achievement making a positive contribution to irrigation and efficient water management are set to be rewarded by the industry’s national body in the second biennial “Innovation in Irrigation” award. The 2012 award carries a cash first prize of $2500, as well as publicity, recognition and kudos, not only for the award winner but also those entrants selected as finalists. Nominations are now, and close on 1 February 2012. For full award information, criteria detail, and nomination/entry forms go to www.irrigationnz.co.nz Back to top
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011 - 62
Appointments Auckland Judge Jan Marie Doogue has been appointed the new Chief District Court Judge. NZ’s WTO Ambassador, John Adank, has been appointed as the new chair of the WTO Doha Round agriculture negotiations. Science NZ has elected Dr Tom Richardson as its chair for the next two years. The Ministry for Culture and Heritage has appointed Ronald Milne as its deputy chief executive and heritage services branch manager. Colonel Anthony Howie has been appointed as Senior Military Advisor in the United Nations Political Office for Somalia. Lesley Longstone has been appointed chief executive and Secretary for Education, Ministry for Education. Carolyn Tremain has been appointed chief executive and Comptroller of Customs, NZ Customs Service. Sue Sheldon has been appointed chair of Chorus. Karen Thomas has been appointed chief executive of the Society of Local Government Managers (SOLGM). Suzanne Snively has been appointed chair of the Agri-Women’s Development Trust. The new chief executive of High Performance Sport NZ is Alex Baumann. Murray Edridge is the new head of Family and Community Services (Ministry of Social Development). Craig Stobo has been appointed as Establishment Board chair of the Local Government Funding Agency. Lady Janine Mateparae, is the new Patron of Rural Women New Zealand. Hon Sir Hugh Williams has been appointed to the NZ Registered Architects Board. Richard Wood is the new chair of the Taskforce for Action on Violence within Families. Marion Cowden has been appointed deputy chair of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority Board. Jane Nees has been appointed to the Chartered Professional Engineers Council and Roly Frost has been reappointed to the council for two years. Twelve basic and applied science and humanities researchers have been elected as Fellows of the Royal Society of NZ: Professor Richard Blaikie, Professor Tony Conner, Professor Jack Copeland, Emeritus Professor Max Cresswell, Professor Pablo Etchegoin, Professor Rod Gover, John McEwan, Professor Martha Savage, Professor Susan Schenk, Professor Paul Spoonley, Professor Gerald Tannock, Dr Simon Thrush, and the new Honorary Fellow elected is Dr Donna Eberhart-Phillips. Cheers, Craig and Paddy To be added to the mailing list contact: Rural Women New Zealand tel 04 473 5524 email enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz
For editorial enquiries contact the editors: Craig Matthews/Paddy Twist tel 04 473 5524 email bulletinaotearoa@ruralwomen.org.nz
Rural Bulletin/Bulletin Aotearoa© All rights reserved This publication is entitled to the full protection given by the Copyright Act 1994 and Amendment (new technologies) 2008 to the holders of the copyright. Reproduction of parts of the publication is permitted for purposes of informing and educating individuals and communities and must acknowledge the publisher Rural Women New Zealand. Copies that are reproduced on other websites or sent through other databases remain the property of Rural Women New Zealand under the Copyright Act 1994 and Amendment (new technologies) 2008.
63 –Bulletin Aotearoa November 2011
Rural Women NZ, enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz, 04 473 5524
Telecom Panning for Oil With the impacts of the Rena oil spill disaster increasing with every tide along the Tauranga coastline and beyond a handful of fantastic Telecom people decided they could get together and make a real difference through The Telecom Foundation’s volunteer day programme. The scenic surf beach of Omanu, a few kilometres from Mt Maunganui main beach, was inundated with 125 energetic Telecom volunteers on Wednesday 26 October as they descended on the sand to remove washed-up oil. Following an early start (5.15am call time for the Aucklanders), people from our Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch and Tauranga offices assembled with plenty of smiles and sunblock ready for action. It was literally like panning for gold,” says one of the volunteers. “We were looking at a seemingly pristine stretch of beach – but underneath the top layer are millions of tiny pieces of solidified oil. Our job was to sift through the good stuff and pick out the bad stuff.” From the high-tide mark to the dunes, the team were on their hands and knees, running their fingers through the sand, feeling for a crumble (good sand) or a squelch (oil). Others held large shade cloths and shovelled sand into the centre, to shake the clean particles through like a sieve. Sound tedious and tiring? You bet. After four hours of solid work – which roughly equated to about 520 man hours, considering the number of volunteers – the team had “polished” 500 metres of beach. One volunteer commented, it was “one of the slowest, most painstaking processes you can imagine – but absolutely necessary to aid in the transition to open beaches. The Council is systematically cleaning the beach in sections, starting from the Mount. Our aim was to hand back a completely ‘recovered’ section of beach at Omanu – which we did.” The thing is, from the surface the beach looks fine then you visualise your kids or dog digging a few centimetres deep and finding themselves in contact with oil. It’s scary stuff. Even just walking along the sand kicks up fragments.” Thanks to the typical Telecom “let’s just make it happen” attitude, the team’s hard work means the beach will be open to locals, visitors and tourists a lot sooner. Half a kilometere
might not sound like much, but having another section of beach back to normal will undoubtedly help restore faith in local tourism and economy. Maritime New Zealand National on Scene Commander Nick Quinn noted on their website, “about 120 Telecom workers joined the clean-up operation... the feedback I’m getting from the team leaders who led these Telecom crews was that they did a fantastic job. It’s hugely appreciated to see the business community getting behind the response.” The volunteers kept sugar levels up with a mid-morning paddle-pop break, sausage sizzle and coffee (the real stuff!). “It’s amazing to see how people respond in times of need,” said one staff helper. “We had a few issues with our ‘rustic’ sausage-sizzle facilities. After a quick chat to the generous staff at Bunnings, we secured a huge BBQ trailer for the afternoon – free of charge – and managed to churn out plenty of post-work snacks for everyone before the trip home.” If you’d like to find out more about the Telecom Foundation or if your local school, community group or registered charity have a project that requires volunteers please visit www.telecomfoundation.co.nz
Rural Women New Zealand is a charitable membership-based organisation, which supports people in rural communities through opportunities, advocacy and connections.
Our members We have groups throughout New Zealand. Some groups meet for networking and friendship, often supporting their local communities through events or fundraising. Others are focused on education and learning, and facilitate training days and workshops. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make regular meetings, but still want to have your say and stay connected, then individual membership might be an option for you.
What is in it for you? We regularly communicate with our members through our magazines, email newsletters, website, Facebook and Twitter. Social connection, by linking members with others in their community. We regularly consult and make submissions on educational, social, health and land issues as they affect rural people. By becoming a member you can ensure your voice is heard. Annual leadership training courses and conferences to develop strong leaders for rural New Zealand. Educational workshops that help our members learn new skills. The opportunity to lead in your community and in New Zealand by initiating and taking part in events and fundraising projects.
www.ruralwomen.org.nz E
PO Box 12-021, Thorndon, Wellington 6144 T 04 473 5524 enquires@ruralwomen.org.nz
Extending Access in Wellington The Capital & Coast District Health Board (C&CDHB) has selected Access as one of two suppliers to deliver its home support and community nursing service, through a new service structure with a restorative focus. Previously three organisations were contracted to provide this service. Commenting on the contract, Brendon Clark, Wellington Regional Manager at Access says: “We’ve worked closely with C&CDHB to develop the shape of our service and we’re committed to delivering a customised service that meets the individual needs and goals of all the people we serve. We’re extremely proud to have been retained as a service provider to C&CDHB. This demonstrates the continued confidence C&CDHB has in the support we provide to the community.” Under the new contract, which comes into effect on 14 November, Access will continue provide assistance for people who need short-term support after hospitalisation for an illness or surgery, as well as for those who need these services longer-term. The service has been designed to cater for people with a range of needs, from the simple to the very complex. For more information or to learn more about the services we offer, phone Access on 0800 AT HOME (0800 284 663) or visit www.access.org.nz.
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