Welcome back to our Weekly Digest. Read on for the latest updates and some ideas to help us all move forward.
Biggest rate hike in 20 years coming this week
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is expected to raise the official cash rate by 75-basis points to 4.25% this week – the biggest hike in two decades. It’s the latest move in the fight against inflation.
Sellers need to adjust as property market declines
New research from CoreLogic reveals that almost 3 percent of properties were sold at a loss in the three months to September. Experts expect that sellers will have to adjust their expectations as the downturn in the housing market deepens.
Renewable gas company innovates to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25 percent
H2X, a small Taranaki company, is using electricity to combine hydrogen with natural gas in existing pipelines at industrial and commercial sites – and experts say the industry is booming.
How designing compact cities would emit less carbon
Poorly-designed, sprawling cities that require everyone to move around in a car emit massive amounts of carbon. James Hughes, a climate and resilience specialist with environmental and engineering consultancy Tonkin + Taylor, says designing compact environments is the answer.
New technology brings high speed internet to rural areas
Low earth orbit (LEO) technology offers high speed connectivity by positioning satellites less than 2000 km above the Earth. It’s a game changer for people living and working in hard to reach places.
New Zealand moves to lower the voting age to 16
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court ruled that the existing age of 18 was discriminatory and breached the human rights of young people. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern responded by stating that the government would draft legislation to change the voting age to 16.
Survey on how to move to a low-emissions economy
The Government wants to hear from you regarding how we can move to a low-emissions future in a way that’s fair for everyone. The survey can be found here.
Dental assistance changes to $1,000 limit December 1
The new plan allows you to apply for up to $1,000 a year to help with immediate and essential dental treatment if you’re on a low income or benefit. The changes were part of Budget 2022, and are a significant increase from the $300 previously available.
Māori and Pacific peoples eligible for another booster
Māori and Pacific peoples aged 40 to 49 will be eligible for a second COVID-19 booster from Friday 18 November to provide additional protection from the virus. Details can be found here.
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