New Zealand

* Government aims to streamline building regulations and boost construction efficiency across New Zealand. * Reforms target reducing red tape and improving housing affordability through structural changes. * New initiatives address the building consent system, overseas products, and accountability for builders. The Government is implementing significant reforms to the building and construction sector

* New Zealand’s first AI-created TV commercial aims to support local wool and media sectors. * Bremworth’s $2 million campaign uses AI to produce innovative content at a reduced cost. * AI technology enabled faster production, boosting exposure by 1.7 million additional views. Bremworth has launched New Zealand’s first

The New Zealand Government is set to reform the country's Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) system, aiming to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses. Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee announced that these changes would streamline processes while ensuring regulations remain effective for businesses, law

* Three out of four Southland projects accepted for fast-tracking are aquaculture developments. * The projects include hatcheries, marine farming, and a climate-resilient salmon farming facility. * The fourth project will provide Invercargill residents and businesses with a reliable secondary water supply. Three out of the four Southland projects recently accepted under the

* New Zealand’s banks will launch the Confirmation of Payee service by November 2024. * This service helps customers ensure the payee’s name matches the account number before payments. * Full implementation across digital banking platforms is expected by Easter 2025. New Zealand’s retail banks are set to introduce the

* The Reserve Bank has lowered the OCR by 0.5%, citing subdued economic activity. * Retail banks, including Kiwibank, ANZ, and ASB, promptly reduced their variable rates. * Finance Minister Nicola Willis welcomed the cut, highlighting potential relief for households and businesses. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has announced a 0.

* A man died in a water-related incident in Milford Sound, Southland, yesterday afternoon. * Emergency services were alerted to two people needing help in the water at 12:50pm. * One other person sustained minor injuries, and the incident is being referred to the Coroner. A man has died following a water-related

* TVNZ has proposed shutting down its 1News website by February 2025 for cost savings. * The proposal aims to achieve $30 million in savings and streamline TVNZ’s digital strategy. * TVNZ staff were informed today, with feedback being sought before a final decision is made. TVNZ is proposing to close its