Good Things Are Happening
Six Signs of Hope In Aotearoa
Even in a week when headlines lean hard into politics and pressure, it’s worth tuning into another frequency, the one where progress hums quietly, powered by community, care and courage. This past week, six stories stood out for all the right reasons.
They’re not flashy or loud, but they’re real. They show Kiwis doing what we do best - stepping up, thinking long term, and lifting each other up.
Here’s what’s worth celebrating across the motu right now.
1. Young Kiwis Step into the House — Youth Parliament 2025
What happened?
On 1–2 July, 143 young New Zealanders took their seats in Parliament as part of the 2025 Youth Parliament, a civic leadership event that replaces select committee simulations with real-world working groups. These rangatahi tackled issues like biodiversity, disability rights, online safety and gambling harm, shaping resolutions that reflect their generation’s priorities.
Who deserves congratulations?
A standing ovation to every Youth MP and Youth Press Gallery member who turned up, spoke up and showed up for their communities and to the Ministry of Youth Development for crafting a platform where future leaders can thrive.
Why it matters for New Zealand
This isn’t just mock government. It’s a democratic training ground. Youth Parliament helps our youngest citizens get fluent in politics and policymaking early. The result? A generation better equipped to lead and to demand better leadership from others.
2. Health New Zealand Gets a Fresh Braintrust
What happened?
The Government has reinstated a governance board for Health New Zealand, bringing back strategic oversight after a period of commissioner-led leadership. Professor Lester Levy will chair the board, with Dr Andrew Connolly as deputy and a team of seasoned professionals guiding the health agency forward. You may have opinions about Mr Levy, but let’s suspend judgement and see what happens.
Who deserves congratulations?
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti, Prof. Levy, Dr Connolly and every new appointee, along with the public servants working to restore transparency and cohesion in our healthcare system.
Why it matters for New Zealand
Stronger governance means clearer priorities and better delivery. From reducing surgical waitlists to managing regional care, this board has the expertise and mandate to help steer Health NZ toward a system that’s fit for purpose and fit for the people.
3. A Win for Teachers - Registration Fees Scrapped
What happened?
From 1 July 2025 through to mid-2028, the Government will fully fund the cost of teacher registration and practising certificates. That’s up to $550 back in the pockets of around 115,000 teachers across early childhood, primary and secondary education.
Who deserves congratulations?
Every teacher who stuck with the job during tough years. And Education Minister Erica Stanford, for turning campaign promises into practical support that recognises and respects the profession.
Why it matters for New Zealand
Removing these fees is more than a budget decision. It’s a signal of value. It says - we want our teachers to teach, not stress about certification costs. And in a country that’s crying out for quality educators, that message really matters.
4. Financial Literacy Heads to Primary School
What happened?
Starting in 2027, Kiwi kids from Year 1 to Year 10 will get mandatory financial education as part of the core curriculum. Topics will include saving, budgeting, bank accounts, interest, insurance and taxes - all age-appropriate and real-world relevant.
Who deserves congratulations?
The Ministry of Education, the Fin-Ed Centre at Massey and every parent, teacher and student who’s advocated for practical life skills to be taught in school.
Why it matters for New Zealand
This change sets kids up for better decisions and better futures. It’s especially important for families doing it tough, where early lessons in money management can break cycles of hardship. Financial literacy isn’t just smart policy - it’s social equity in action.
5. Saunas and Sea Plunges? Welcome to Little Finland
What happened?
A uniquely Kiwi trend is heating up (literally). Mobile and beachside saunas, like those hosted by Scenic Sauna and The Sauna Project, are becoming a fixture in places like Wellington, where groups gather to sweat, plunge, connect and heal.
Who deserves congratulations?
The social entrepreneurs and community organisers turning health into a shared experience. And everyone showing up, from first-timers to weekly regulars, to embrace the icy-hot magic of communal wellness.
Why it matters for New Zealand
This is more than trend-chasing. Sauna culture supports cardiovascular and mental health, while also fostering social connection. It’s wellness done the Kiwi way - outdoorsy, egalitarian and often with a view. And we love to see it.
6. Honours for Everyday Excellence - King’s Birthday 2025
What happened?
The King’s Birthday Honours list was released, with 188 Kiwis recognised for service to their communities, fields, or causes. Among them - mental health advocate Darryl Bishop, cricket captain Sophie Devine, rugby star Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and cycling champ Ellesse Andrews.
Who deserves congratulations?
Every recipient, from high-profile sportspeople to the quiet champions in conservation, disability advocacy, health and the arts. You’ve made Aotearoa better through sheer service and care.
Why it matters for New Zealand
These honours remind us that leadership isn’t just about titles or headlines. It’s about service. And the diversity of recipients, from rural organisers to Pacific elders, reflects the beautiful breadth of who we are.
A Moment to Reflect
These six stories may not change the world overnight, but they show us something important - New Zealand is still a country where people care. Where young leaders rise, where good governance is being rebuilt, where teachers are backed, kids are taught to be wise with money, health is taken into new spaces and contribution is celebrated.
In a week of worry and noise, that’s a heartbeat worth tuning in to.