Office for Seniors New Zealand

20/07/2026

Know a good sort worthy of Senior New Zealander of the Year 2027?

Consider nominating them. Find out more here https://nzawards.org.nz/

Nominations are now open for the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards Ngā Tohu Pou Kōhure o Aotearoa!

It’s time to spotlight the Kiwi making a positive impact in their communities, across Aotearoa, and on the world stage. You have until 18 August to put someone forward – be it a changemaker, a quiet leader, a visionary, or a local legend.

Kiwibank Chief Executive Steve Jurkovich says, "Across Aotearoa there are Kiwi making a difference every day, often without any expectation of recognition. We are proud to support these Awards and to help shine a light on the individuals, teams and communities whose actions are helping make New Zealand better. We all know someone whose impact deserves to be celebrated. This is the chance to acknowledge their contribution and share their story with the rest of the country, and we encourage Kiwi to nominate someone whose mahi is making a difference."

Click the link to nominate – it only takes two minutes to have your say!
https://nzawards.org.nz/nominate/

16/07/2026

H5 Bird flu is officially in New Zealand. Here's what you need to know.

A bird was found on Petone Beach in the Wellington region, and testing confirmed H5 bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza).
This is the first detection of H5 bird flu in New Zealand. It hasn't been found in any other birds and there are no detections in poultry.
New Zealand is well prepared to respond and protect poultry production, and to reduce impacts on wildlife and communities.
Be alert and use good habits to limit the impact of bird flu.
• Keep your distance: Stay away from sick or dead wildlife. Keep pets away too.
• Keep clean: Wash your hands and clean your gear after being outdoors.
• Know when to report: If you see three or more sick or dead birds, report them to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66

More information here https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/pest-and-disease-threats-to-new-zealand/animal-disease-threats-to-new-zealand/high-pathogenicity-avian-influenza/about-avian-influenza-and-the-risk-to-nz

Biosecurity New Zealand is asking everyone to be alert after H5 bird flu was detected here in a single ocean-going seabird.

The bird was found on Petone Beach in the Wellington region, and testing confirmed H5 bird flu (H5N1 avian influenza).

This is the first detection of H5 bird flu in New Zealand. It hasn't been found in any other birds and there are no detections in poultry.

New Zealand is well prepared to respond and protect poultry production, and to reduce impacts on wildlife and communities.

Be alert and use good habits to limit the impact of bird flu.
• Keep your distance: Stay away from sick or dead wildlife. Keep pets away too.
• Keep clean: Wash your hands and clean your gear after being outdoors.
• Know when to report: If you see three or more sick or dead birds, report them to the exotic pest and disease hotline on 0800 80 99 66.

We have extensive resources available, including on what to look out for and do/don’t, here: https://bit.ly/4gEC9E8

30/06/2026

The Matariki public holiday is coming up on Friday 10 July – Mānawatia a Matariki.

If you're a client with us, here’s what you need to know:
👉There will be no changes to payments during this week.

👉If you declare income regularly, and you’re paid weekly, you need to declare your income before 10pm on Thursday 9 July 2026.

👉We'll be closed on Matariki, Friday 10 July.

👉 You can still access online services like MyMSD and Service Express.

Check out the Work and Income website for more info below 👇
https://workandincome.govt.nz/about-work-and-income/news/2026/matariki-payments-and-office-closures.html

19/06/2026

Having an EPA means you choose who will make decisions if you’re ever unable. Take control—talk about an EPA with your whānau today.

18/06/2026

Psychological elder abuse—like intimidation, ridicule, humiliation, and threats—causes real harm.

If you or someone you know needs support, reach out: 0800 32 668 65.

17/06/2026

Stopping elder abuse begins with us. Check on an older neighbour or whānau member today. A simple act of kindness can make a big difference.

0800 32 668 65.

16/06/2026

Elder abuse can make you feel isolated, but you’re not alone. No matter what’s happening, you deserve respect.

Reach out confidentially: 0800 32 668 65.

15/06/2026

14/06/2026

Today is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. It's a good time to check in on the older people in our lives.

Many forms of abuse are subtle, seem acceptable or are done “for the person’s own good”. Abusers are often close to the older person, and trusted.

If you're concerned about someone, or just want to talk about something that worries you, call the Elder Abuse Response Service: 0800 32 668 65.

31/05/2026

Congrats to King's Birthday Honours recipients announced today! 🎖

Especially to the following for your hard work supporting older people.

MNZM
Wayne Bradshaw, Age Concern
Irihapeti Bullmore, seniors and Māori Health
Dr Alison Talmage, Music therapy

KSM
Hanny Naus, Age Concern
William Rayner, Grey Power and Auckland Heritage

Read the full list here
https://www.dpmc.govt.nz/publications/kings-birthday-honours-list-2026

The New Zealand Order of MeritThe King has been pleased, on the occasion of the celebration of His Majesty’s Birthday, to make the following appointments to The New Zealand Order of Merit: