Government / Health Government commissions study that could narrow brodifacoum buffer rules for deer hunting The research aims to test whether the current 2km, three-year exclusion around poison bait stations can be better targeted without compromising food safety or export assurances.
Health / Government Brown appoints three to Health Research Council board, keeps Levy as chair Dr Margaret Whilsher, Dr Colin McArthur and Paul Foster-Bell join the HRC for three-year terms, with Professor Lester Levy and Jeroen Douwes reappointed to lead the board amid wider science sector reforms.
Health / Government Central Lakes health services set to expand, with local MRI and a new maternity model signalled The Government has backed a Health NZ plan to bring more care closer to home in Wānaka, Cromwell and Queenstown, with upgrades starting next year and major operating funding kicking in from 2027.
Health / Government Government funds youth crisis respite in Northland after coroner’s findings The Minister for Mental Health has directed new money and roles into Northland, establishing a youth acute respite service and adding three prevention coordinators after a coroner’s report into six deaths.
Government / Health Free online food safety course launched, with five more modules to follow The Government says the new training will cut costs for hospitality and small food operators; the link to the course was not provided in the release.
Government / Health Government installs three new ACC directors to drive turnaround plan Richard Keys, Lindsay Wright and actuary Michael Playford join the board on 11 May with a brief to strengthen governance, client service and financial settings.
Health / Government Surgical mesh pause remains as registry built; device regulation moved back to ‘in progress’ after law repeal The Ministry says 16 of 19 mesh actions are implemented, but a national registry and an updated medical device law are still being worked on.
Health / New Zealand Ministry accepts ‘significant failing’ on teen mandate advice as COVID-19 Royal Commission releases final report The Ministry will lead the Government’s response to the report and says it will tighten processes after advice on vaccine mandates for 12–17-year-olds was delayed or unclear.
Health / Government Canterbury adult mental health services show progress under Section 99 oversight; recruitment still a sticking point The Director of Mental Health says visible gains have been made since last year’s inspection report, with further checks set for May and August.
Government / Health Police put retailers on notice as nitrous oxide misuse linked to fatal crashes Police and the Ministry of Health say more drivers are inhaling nitrous oxide; stores will be warned on illegal sales and enforcement will follow if needed.
Health / New Zealand Adult ADHD treatment opens up in primary care as prescribing rules change The Ministry has widened who can assess and start stimulant medicines for adults, but services will roll out unevenly and supply remains tight.
Health / Government Ministry sets terms for independent review of Manage My Health data breach The review, developed with the Government Chief Digital Officer and National Cyber Security Centre, will examine the causes, response and future safeguards, with a final report due 30 April.
