Defence Force retention is improving
Earlier in the year I flew to Waiouru from Base Ohakea in an NH90 helicopter to see 153 defence force recruits graduate from their comprehensive and demanding basic training into their new places in the army. These young people had endured mental tests as well physical and emotional challenges.
I reminded them that these skills will carry them through their career as they enter the Defence Force at a time when people are "living in global uncertainty".
The strategic environment is more complex and volatile than it has been in decades. Conflicts are escalating ... In this environment, New Zealand's contribution matters.
New Zealand and its Defence Force stand for peace, for co-operation and for the protection of those who cannot protect themselves. Professionalism and readiness including being properly equipped are essential and the Defence Capability Plan is going to pour $12 billion worth of investment into the Defence Force over the next 15 years.
I believe, this investment is one of the most significant things we've been able to do in terms of changing people's lives and also security of the country.
I have also been to Linton Camp where the Commander Mike van Welie demonstrated the components of his light infantry battalion that has everything from dogs and weaponry to boats, light armoured vehicles and drones.
I was impressed by the display and I could see that money was being well spent with much more to come including securing new maritime helicopters, replacing the air force's two Boeing 757s, and ramping up work on the use of drones.
This sort of investment is what encourages people to join the defence forces and remain in them and I am glad to see retention receding dramatically as an issue.
I want every recruit and their family to know that I back our defence force personnel and I want them to be properly equipped to do their important work for New Zealand and New Zealanders.
The Fast Track Approvals Act 2024
From mid-July this year, the Fast Track Projects system has become available, and I am pleased to see several companies in Papakura are taking the initiative and using it to fast track their projects.
Under the new Fast Track, if your project is within the 149 activities listed in the Act, a fast-track application can be submitted directly to the Ministry for the Environment/ Environment Protection Authority.
You can get free advice from EPA on the Fast track of projects by phoning
Freephone: 0800 225 537 or by
The process at a glance
The process involves applying for referral to use the Fast-track process, followed by a substantive application for the approvals needed. Projects listed in the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 (“the Act”) don’t need referral and can go straight to the substantive application. Other projects need referral before making a substantive application.
Step 1: Applying for referral to use the Fast-track process
- Complete pre-lodgement consultation and other preparation.
- Write and submit your referral application.
- The Ministry for the Environment assesses the application for completeness.
- The Minister for Infrastructure decides whether to accept or decline the application.
Step 2: Substantive application for resource consent and other approvals
- Complete relevant preliminary steps as described in the Act.
- Optional: seek priority for the project via an application to the Minister.
- Write and submit your substantive application.
- Fast-track team assesses the application for completeness and other matters.
- An expert panel considers the substantive application. They invite comments and organise other information or activities required to support their decision. They may decide to hold a hearing.
- The panel issues its decision. If the application is approved, the panel can set conditions the project must meet.
I wish everyone well who finds that this new legislation will fast track their project’s progress. As we know this is a way to boost productivity in Papakura and across New Zealand.
