A review of the rules for ministers was recently announced by Prime Minister John Key - the rules would pertain to accommodation expenses in Wellington. He claimed that, in future, some ministers can get lower allowance.

The Ministerial Services have been asked by Mr. Key to review the current rules for ministers. The instructions come after the last week release of expenses information, including accommodation and travel, claimed by MPs and ministers.

It has appeared that Prime Minister John Key is encouraging everyone to invite their overseas-based friends and family for a visit to New Zealand - the invitation being a part of a "Great Kiwi Invite" campaign launched by Tourism New Zealand with the aim of strengthening international visitor numbers.

Mr. Key along with the Tourism Minister said: "New Zealanders are known as great travelers, and as result so many of us have connections overseas."

John Key, New Zealand's Prime Minister, said on Thursday that there is a dire need for New Zealand to deal with its poor productivity growth, as he thinks that this is the major problem being faced by the economy.

Wednesday saw an impressive speech being delivered by Key on New Zealand's economic performance, to a business audience in Wellington.

Recently, the awarding of a $406 million contract for Auckland's first city tunnel and one of the country's most expensive stretches of road came to scene; the contract will create 300 jobs.

A tunnel would be built by the V-Formation consortium under Auckland's Victoria Park, said Prime Minister John Key, which he sees as part of the Northern Motorway linking the city to the Harbour Bridge.

It is predicted that the work which will commence next month will get over in time for the Rugby World Cup in 2011.

As per the media reports, a Tax Information Exchange agreement has been signed by Prime Minister John Key with Cook Islands Prime Minister Jim Marurai, which is being seen as a part of their efforts to bring down tax evasion and avoid another wine-box affair.

Full exchange of information on criminal and civil tax matters between the two countries is provided by the Tax Information Exchange Agreement, said Revenue Minister Peter Dunne.

Southern Australia recently went through a great deal of loss after the bushfires, and now New Zealand police forensic experts have come forward with their helping hand in identifying the victims.
“Australia has accepted an offer of help from the New Zealand Police, but the number of personnel involved and when they would leave for Australia are to be confirmed,” said Police National Headquarters spokesman Jon Neilson.