Mental Health Workforce: University of Canterbury and AUT have started training New Zealand’s first psychology assistants, a new supervised role aimed at speeding access to low-intensity support while easing pressure on the system. AI Data Centres & Power: The Green Party is pushing a one-year moratorium on consenting new AI data centres, arguing current rules let major projects proceed with little community input, spotlighting Datagrid’s Makarewa plan near Invercargill and its projected electricity draw. Residential Construction & Compliance: As new home consents rise, demand is growing for specialist acoustic compliance services for builds inside airport noise contours, with soundproofing requirements tied to building consent sign-off. Fuel Prices: Petrol is forecast to jump 15–20 cents a litre in the next fortnight as Middle East tensions lift crude costs, with diesel expected around $2.50. Banking & Brokers: BNZ is accused of trying to squeeze mortgage brokers with a “go direct” campaign, while the bank says it’s about customer choice and complementing brokers. Health Infrastructure: Wellington Regional Hospital has installed the first of two new $6m radiation therapy machines, part of a wider upgrade to treat more cancer patients closer to home. Agribusiness & Food Manufacturing: NZ’s baking sector keeps growing, driven by personalised celebration cakes and printed toppers/photo designs. Local Industry Spotlight: Waikato’s Karamu Barrelworks has been named overall champion at the New Zealand Beer Awards. Family Violence: A Dunedin-area offender has been ordered to wear GPS tracking and stay out of Dunedin after a judge heard “terror” in a victim’s voice.