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Property Investors Federation Defends Market Amid Changing Trends

The debate surrounding property investment in New Zealand continues as experts weigh in on shifting market dynamics. While Jeremy Williamson, the head of private wealth and markets at Craigs Investment Partners, recently suggested that New Zealanders are increasingly moving away from property investments, Matt Ball from the Property Investors Federation offered a different perspective.
In a recent statement, Williamson noted that there seems to be a growing trend among Kiwis to diversify their investments beyond the property sector. He pointed to various factors contributing to this shift, including changing economic conditions and evolving investor preferences. However, Ball contends that despite these changes, the enduring appeal of property investment remains strong in New Zealand.
Enduring Appeal of Property Investment
Ball acknowledged that the property market is indeed evolving, influenced by recent government initiatives aimed at regulating the sector. He highlighted that investors are becoming more informed and are exploring alternative investment opportunities. Nonetheless, he firmly believes that New Zealanders’ affinity for property investment is far from over.
“I think the property market has changed, thanks to some initiatives from the Government, and I think people will start to take a bit of a different approach,” Ball stated. He emphasized that property investment continues to be a valuable avenue for wealth creation and economic stability. “I don’t buy this whole notion that property investment isn’t a productive activity,” he added, reinforcing his stance on the importance of real estate in the investment landscape.
Market Changes and Investor Sentiment
The discussions surrounding property investment have intensified as New Zealand grapples with various economic challenges. Rising interest rates, fluctuating property prices, and regulatory changes have all contributed to a complex environment for investors. As a result, many are reassessing their strategies and considering diverse investment options.
Despite these challenges, Ball remains optimistic about the future of property investment in New Zealand. He points out that real estate can still provide solid returns, especially for long-term investors. “The fundamentals of property investment haven’t changed,” he asserted, indicating that the sector still holds significant potential for those willing to adapt to the new market realities.
As the landscape of property investment evolves, both experts and investors will need to stay informed and agile. The ongoing dialogue between proponents of traditional property investment and those advocating for diversified portfolios underscores the dynamic nature of the financial landscape in New Zealand. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor how these trends shape the broader investment climate in the country.
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Indian Leaders Respond to Winston Peters’ Controversial Comments

The Indian community in New Zealand is expressing significant concern over recent comments made by Winston Peters, the leader of New Zealand First, regarding immigration. Peters described the influx of migrants as an “alarming development” in an interview with the New Zealand Herald. His remarks suggested that many New Zealanders feel threatened by the changing dynamics in their cities due to immigration policies.
Peters articulated his worries during the interview, stating, “They have seen the international circumstances of careless immigration policies transforming cities… people feel at risk because of it.” He cited examples from several European countries, including England, arguing that some migrants fail to respect local values and customs. He further claimed that newcomers should embrace New Zealand’s values or reconsider their decision to migrate.
Indian community leaders swiftly countered Peters’ assertions. Narendra Bhana, a prominent figure within the community, expressed his alarm at the rhetoric that characterizes immigrants as a burden. “It is deeply concerning to witness political rhetoric that portrays immigrants as a burden rather than a strength,” he stated. Bhana emphasized the crucial roles that migrants play in various sectors, including healthcare, construction, agriculture, retail, and information technology.
Former Member of Parliament Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the necessity of aligning immigration policies with national infrastructure and workforce needs. He cautioned against generalizations that overshadow the valuable contributions made by migrant communities. “Some of Mr. Peters’s language has caused concern within migrant communities,” he noted.
Bhana also highlighted the impact of labor shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating the importance of immigrant workers in sustaining New Zealand’s economy. “Businesses across the country struggled with severe labour shortages, and the economy faced immense pressure due to the lack of migrant workers,” he said.
The discussion on immigration has broader implications in New Zealand’s political landscape. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon recently stated that immigration must align with the country’s economic agenda and infrastructure capabilities. “We have accelerated pathways for residency through the Green List for when we have got job shortages that we desperately need to get into our communities,” he explained.
Bakshi welcomed Luxon’s balanced approach, hoping for an ongoing dialogue that remains inclusive and focused on shared progress. “Prime Minister Luxon’s emphasis on aligning immigration with long-term national goals is a more balanced approach,” he remarked. Bhana shared this perspective, advocating for policies that value and support immigrants rather than vilifying them.
The Opposition also took issue with Peters’ comments. Ricardo Menendez March, the Green Party’s immigration spokesperson, referred to Peters’ remarks as a “tired, decades-old playbook of blaming migrants.” He suggested that such statements distract from pressing coalition policies that have faced criticism, including reforms to pay equity and emergency housing.
Labour MP Phil Twyford condemned Peters’ comments as “cynical politicking,” arguing that they divert attention from urgent issues like the rising cost of living. He underscored the reliance of New Zealand’s economy on immigration, asserting, “We remain completely reliant on immigration for our economy to work and for our society to work.”
In his interview, Peters reiterated his belief that New Zealand should prioritize training and employing its own citizens before turning to immigration. He remarked, “We, like wise countries, have always believed we should be training and employing our own people first and not use immigration as an excuse not to do that.”
The discussion surrounding immigration in New Zealand is increasingly relevant as the nation navigates the complexities of its economic needs and social fabric. The responses from community leaders and political figures alike highlight the ongoing debate regarding the role of migrants in shaping a vibrant and inclusive society.
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Australian Rocket Launches Vegemite, Achieves 14-Second Flight

An Australian aerospace company recently celebrated a significant milestone with the test launch of its Eris rocket, which carried a jar of Vegemite in its nose cone. The rocket achieved approximately 14 seconds of flight before returning to Earth, marking a notable step in Australia’s efforts to establish a local space industry.
The test launch took place at Abbot Point, located about 1,000 kilometers from Brisbane, Queensland. After an 18-month wait for the right launch window, the three-stage rocket was able to clear the launch pad and ascend briefly, much to the delight of the team at Gilmour Space Technologies.
Adam Gilmour, the company’s chief executive, expressed his relief and excitement following the launch. “I was so nervous about it getting off the pad, that when it did I screamed in pure joy,” he told Agence France-Presse. Video footage captured the Eris rocket as it barely cleared the top of the launch tower, hovering momentarily before it lost momentum and fell back to Earth in a cloud of smoke.
The Eris rocket, measuring 23 meters in height, is designed for launching small satellites into low-Earth orbit. Although the Vegemite payload did not survive the test flight, Gilmour emphasized the importance of the brief flight time. “It’s huge what you can prove with just 10 to 15 seconds of flight time,” he noted.
Preparations for a second test flight are already in progress, with Gilmour aiming for a launch within the next six to eight months. The company, which employs 230 staff members, is targeting commercial launches by late 2026 or early 2027.
This test marks an important step for Gilmour Space Technologies as it strives to be the first company to launch a locally built rocket into orbit from Australian soil. As the Australian space sector continues to evolve, the success of this launch, albeit brief, showcases the potential for future advancements in the industry.
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Nurses Strike in Dunedin: 200 Protest for Safe Staffing Conditions

Approximately 200 protesters gathered outside Dunedin Hospital on March 15, 2024, to support a 24-hour strike by nurses. This strike, involving over 36,000 nurses, midwives, and healthcare assistants nationwide, stemmed from unresolved contract negotiations with Te Whatu Ora, New Zealand’s health authority.
Members of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) voiced their concerns about unsafe staffing levels, which they argue compromise patient care. The protest included support from the International Socialist Union and the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union, as demonstrators marched from the hospital to the nearby Museum Reserve.
In addressing the crowd, NZNO delegate Robyn Hewlett highlighted the detrimental impact of staffing shortages on nurses’ ability to provide quality care. She described the intense pressure faced by nursing staff, stating, “It’s very busy, it’s very heavy, it’s very stressful for nurses. Nurses are crying, it’s terrible.”
Hewlett emphasized that the protest was focused on working conditions rather than pay, stating, “We’re basically just asking for safe staffing.” The emotional toll on nurses has been significant, prompting Hewlett to express her anger and frustration over the current situation.
The strike has substantial implications for patient care, with Health New Zealand estimating that around 4,300 patients will experience postponed procedures or specialist appointments due to the strike.
The ongoing negotiations between the NZNO and Te Whatu Ora have reached a stalemate, prompting this collective action. The nurses argue that without adequate staffing levels, the healthcare system cannot meet the needs of the community effectively.
As the protest continues, the focus remains on achieving a resolution that prioritizes safe staffing and improved working conditions for nurses across New Zealand.
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Ryan Bridge Delivers Insights in Early Edition Podcast on July 30

Listeners tuning in to the latest episode of the Early Edition with Ryan Bridge on July 30, 2025, can expect a comprehensive overview of current events and engaging discussions. The podcast, available on iHeartRadio and other streaming platforms, aims to inform and entertain audiences with timely insights every weekday morning.
The latest episode features an array of topics relevant to listeners seeking to keep abreast of the latest developments. Bridge’s engaging style and ability to break down complex issues make the podcast a popular choice for those looking for a concise yet thorough analysis of the news.
Listeners can access the full show podcast, which typically runs for around one hour, to enjoy discussions that cover a wide range of subjects. This format allows for an in-depth exploration of significant events, providing context and perspective that might be missed in traditional news formats.
With a commitment to delivering quality content, the Early Edition continues to build a loyal audience. The podcast not only informs but also encourages listeners to think critically about the issues presented.
For those interested in staying informed while on the go, the podcast is accessible on various platforms, ensuring that audiences can engage with the material at their convenience. Whether commuting to work or taking a break, the Early Edition serves as an essential listening experience for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of the world around them.
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