Budget 2026 Defence & Maritime: Government has unveiled a major maritime security boost: $880m operating plus $700m new capital for drones, surveillance, and upgrades to ageing Navy capabilities—aimed at protecting trade routes and extending reach across the South Pacific and Southern Ocean. Auckland Emissions Standoff: Auckland’s transport emissions plan is under pressure, with councillors weighing a walk-back of targets after central funding gaps make the 2022 Transport Emissions Reduction Pathway look increasingly out of reach. Space Minister Collins Exit: Judith Collins’ “world’s first space minister” tenure is getting a mixed verdict—praised for regulatory and partnership work, but criticised for not digging deeper into the failed MethaneSAT mission. Climate Politics Under Scrutiny: A climate activist alleges a “co-ordinated campaign of secret lobbying,” while the Government pushes climate-law changes to limit lawsuits—raising fresh questions about transparency and influence. Wilding Pines Funding: Budget 2026 also backs wilding conifer control with a $79m tourism-and-farming-linked boost, lifting total commitment to $109m over three years.