EPA remains committed to deliver improved outcomes
OPINION: At the end of my first year as chair of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), I have been reflecting on the progress made in the time I have been in the role.
Allan Freeth, chief executive of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has announced he is resigning.
Freeth has informed the EPA’s board that he intends to step down from the role on 30 June 2026.
Barry O’Neil, EPA chair, says the timing coincides with the end of the financial year.
Freeth will have served as chief executive of the EPA for over 10 years.
"Allan has led the EPA with vision and energy and has been instrumental in growing the EPA from its early phase as a developing regulator to one now respected by the environmental sector,” O’Neil says.
He says Freeth led the EPA through the coronavirus and has overseen the expansion of the EPA’s remit, including the recent establishment of the fast-track function.
"The board would like to thank Allan for his significant contribution to the EPA to date and wishes him all the very best for his future endeavours."
The board will begin the process for identifying a new chief executive shortly, with a view to confirming a replacement prior to Freeth’s departure.
One of New Zealand’s longest-running pasture growth monitoring projects will continue, even as its long-time champion steps away after more than five decades of involvement.
The Insurance & Financial Services Ombudsmen Scheme (IFSO Scheme) is advising consumers to prepare for delays as insurers respond to a high volume of claims following this week's severe weather.
Additional reductions to costs for forest owners in the Emissions Trading Scheme Registry (ETS) have been announced by the Government.
Animal welfare is of paramount importance to New Zealand's dairy industry, with consumers increasingly interested in how food is produced, not just the quality of the final product.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay is encouraging farmers and growers to stay up to date with weather warnings and seek support should they need it.
The closure of SH2 Waioweka Gorge could result in significant delays and additional costs for freight customers around the Upper North Island, says Transporting New Zealand.

OPINION: If the hand-wringing, cravat and bow-tie wearing commentariat of a left-leaning persuasion had any influence on global markets, we'd…
OPINION: With Winston Peters playing politics with the PM's Indian FTA, all eyes will be on Labour who have the…