Latest from Social Welfare

'Extraordinary': Homeless refuse help - and face being trespassed from reserves

"Some of them simply do not want to abide by rules," Rotorua Lakes Council says.

Influential child welfare advocate remembered

Lesley Webb wanted children to have the best upbringing possible.

‘Beneficiary bashing’ or encouraging more people into work? Welfare policies compared

Sanctions and benefit increases key difference between Labour, National.

What key issues is Whanganui facing ahead of the election?

Climate change resilience was an issue high on people's lists of concerns.

Hotel deemed unfit for homeless

Former Carisbrook Hotel will receive no more referrals until "notice to fix" is sorted.

Inside Kāinga Ora's 'village' in the middle of Auckland city

Te Mātāwai is Auckland's newest and largest response to homelessness in the city.

‘Lost the plot’: Act founder not voting for former party

The party's current leader isn't too fazed by the comments.

Migrant pensioner wins fight against MSD after it denies his superannuation by one day

The Indian migrant lodged his application for superannuation in February 2020.

Green Party looking to snare Labour's disaffected voters

Green Party members are assembling for their AGM in Auckland this weekend.

Child poverty not improving, still 120,000 in material hardship

Statistics show gradual declines on most measures but campaigners say still too high.

Record numbers move off benefits into work

Ministry of Social Development says result is 'better than expected'.

'Racist' post against Asian builders, major benefit boost & new poll favours Labour | Focus Morning Bulletin: 14 March, 2023

Influencer called out over comments about Asian builders, criticism mounts on the Government’s welfare boost and how the country’s tracking 28 days on from Cyclone Gabrielle in the latest New Zealand Herald headlines. Video / NZ Herald

FamilyBoost package will benefit Māori, says Reti

Dr Shane Reti says National's family support package will aid Māori most.

Man denied lamb leftovers hits support worker in head

Angry lunch guest assaults support worker when denied leftover lamb.

Focus: Luxon speaks to media after unveiling affordable childcare plan

Leader Christopher Luxon and deputy leader Nicola Willis spoke to media the day after announcing National's affordable childcare plan. Video / NZ Herald

Landslide destroys Auckland home, storm of hardship expected & sea sponge crisis | Focus Morning Bulletin: 2 February, 2023

Dramatic rescue as house collapses in a landslide, what to expect weather-wise as the clean-up begins and marine heatwave blamed for mass sponge die-off in the latest New Zealand Herald headlines. Video / NZ Herald

Oranga Tamariki not meeting minimal standards for children in care - report

Reports show there is no significant improvements for children in state care.

Auckland floods: Rough sleepers on the frontlines

Most vulnerable are on the streets with worst of the weather.