NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Think before you drive: Police warn drivers ahead of public holidays

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The results of a Police operation targeting impaired drivers in Auckland City this week has officers warning drivers to think before getting behind the wheel.

    Auckland City Police partnered with the Tāmaki Makaurau Impairment Prevention Team and Auckland Transport on Wednesday as part of an operation targeting impaired drivers.

    Auckland City Road Policing Manager, Acting Inspector Scott Jones, says the aim was to reinforce the message that motorists should be alcohol and drug free before hopping in a vehicle.

    “Close to 5000 drivers were breath tested across 15 check points, with eight drivers testing over the legal limit for driving.

    “While that may seem like a good result, it’s still eight too many and Police are disappointed to see that these people have put themselves and other road users at risk.

    “All of those caught will appear in court, and another driver who was suspected of being under the influence of cannabis while driving will also appear in court charged with refusing to provide a blood sample.”

    Acting Inspector Jones says Police are committed to ensuring our roads are safe, and they need everyone to do their part.

    “We want our presence to deter motorists from any driving behaviours or impairments that put themselves and others at risk.

    “When it comes down to it, we choose our behaviour behind the wheel and there are consequences for those who make poor choices.”

    He says in addition to impairment, officers focussed on other aspects of road safety and dealt with a number of drivers who had unrestrained children in their cars.

    “Our partners at Auckland Transport assisted these motorists with education on using child restraint systems to keep their family safe.

    “The public can expect Police to be out on our roads over the Easter and Anzac holiday weekends and encourage people to make good decisions before they drive.”

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kerrs Road, Linwood closed following crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Kerrs Road, Linwood is currently closed following a crash.

    The crash involved a vehicle and a cyclist and happened near the intersection with Woodham Road just before 4pm.

    One person has been seriously injured.

    Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Turbo-charging tomatoes with Auckland’s food scraps

    Source: Auckland Council

    Thanks to a technology called anaerobic digestion, Aucklanders’ food scraps now provide renewable energy to help power the tomatoes that may very well end up on Aucklanders’ plates, contributing to New Zealand’s circular economy and reducing waste disposal costs.

    Anaerobic digestion extracts the powerhouse of energy and nutrients locked inside food scraps and other organic waste, with the EcoGas facility in Reporoa leading the way in implementing this technology in New Zealand.

    The facility collects food scraps and other organic waste from a range of sources, including Auckland Council’s food scraps collection, and produces enough heat from the waste to keep a neighbouring five-hectare glasshouse at ideal temperatures to grow its tomatoes – the equivalent of heating about 2,000 homes. Soon, the glasshouse will also gain bio-carbon dioxide produced by the food scraps to enhance tomato growth, as excess energy generated from the food scraps is fed into the national gas grid.

    The residual material that remains after biogas is extracted is transformed into liquid fertiliser, replacing synthetic fertilisers in New Zealand’s agriculture, which is much better for soil health.

    Auckland Council GM Waste Solutions Justine Haves says diverting Auckland’s food scraps from landfill to be turned into clean energy and other resources helps move Auckland towards its goal of Zero Waste by 2040.

    “Sending waste to landfill is the most expensive way to dispose of a community’s waste from an environmental perspective,” Ms Haves says.

    “The more waste we have going to landfill, the more harmful emissions we have and the more landfill capacity we need, which comes at a significant cost to communities,” she says.

    “With our finite resources, it makes sense to use the best environmentally sustainable technologies available to us to recover valuable resources from food scraps, and by diverting Auckland’s food scraps away from landfills towards processing for beneficial uses, the cost of the food scraps service is reduced.

    “The food scraps sent from Auckland to Reporoa travel in aggregate trucks that were previously heading back there empty, so this is a truly circular initiative.”

    Separating food scraps from rubbish is an easy way to reduce a household’s carbon footprint and provide a renewable resource for energy and fertiliser, so if you haven’t yet made use of your food scraps bin, it’s never too late to start! Simply put your food scraps bin out each week and it will be picked up as part of Auckland Council’s kerbside collection. 

    From your kitchen to an Ecogas facility – the food scraps journey

    Watch the Journey of Food Scraps video below. 

    [embedded content]

    Food scraps bins go out weekly, on council collection day. The small bins are emptied into food scraps collection vehicles – a third of which are electric – and the food scraps are transported to a facility in Papakura before being transferred into trucks bound for Reporoa.

    The food scraps are loaded into vehicles which have delivered gravel and aggregate to Auckland from Taupō. Instead of returning to Taupō empty, they make the return trip south carrying food scraps. We are using an existing trip that would still happen without food scraps.

    Food scraps arrive at the Ecogas Organics Processing Facility where they begin the process of anaerobic digestion.

    Turning food scraps into clean energy and fertiliser – what is Anaerobic Digestion?

    Imagine a huge tank. You mash up all your food scraps, like banana peels, corn cobs, and bones until it looks like a thick soup and pour it into the tank. Inside it, there are tiny, invisible helpers – the bacteria. These helpers love to eat the food scraps, but they don’t need any air to do it.

    As they munch away, they make two special things: bio-gas for energy use and a liquid fertiliser that can be applied onto pasture to help grass thrive. This whole process is called anaerobic digestion because it happens without any oxygen.

    The huge tanks turn Auckland’s food scraps into renewable energy and fertiliser which is spread on neighbouring farms. The energy helps to grow tasty tomatoes and the fertiliser helps grow grass to feed cows. Both the tomatoes and milk end up in your supermarket and on your plate. This energy is also used to run the facility itself making it self-sufficient and supplying renewable gas to the local gas grid.

    Place your food scraps bin at the kerbside on your collection day and rest assured that you’re making a difference now and for the future.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Students struggling as Govt sits on hands

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    “It is unacceptable that struggling students can’t eat and pay their rent because they can’t access their student loan or allowance,” said Labour’s tertiary spokesperson Shanan Halbert.

    “With unemployment rapidly increasing, Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds and Minister for Universities Shane Reti both should have known that enrolments would increase but failed to ensure that support systems were in place.

    “Students are now halfway through the semester and more than 14,000 have not been paid their student allowance. This is appalling.

    “We said that job cuts to the back office were going to mean more paperwork flowing through to the frontline. Our students are feeling the brunt of this today.

    “With no update in sight about Te Pūkenga and university funding still on the line with no reassurances from either Minister, I worry they’re going to drop the ball on a sector that supports hundreds of thousands into work

    “This is all in addition to a measly increase to the minimum wage which was well below inflation, power bills going up, and student loan interest rates increasing for those overseas.

    “If we want our students to secure jobs, be in good health and have a place to live, we need to ensure our support systems are providing relief to those who need it now to achieve those things,” Shanan Halbert said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New guidance for adventure activity and outdoor recreation providers – managing the risks from natural hazards

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    WorkSafe has created new guidance to help adventure activity operators and outdoor recreation providers manage risks from natural hazards such as flooding, landslips, and snowfall.

    The guidance is relevant for:

    • Adventure activity providers
    • Outdoor recreation providers like schools and tertiary education providers, sports clubs, and recreation venues.

    Adventure activities, like bungy jumping, rock climbing, and white-water rafting, are popular in New Zealand and important to our tourism industry – but they also come with risks. All adventure activity businesses must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) and have processes to keep workers, participants, and others safe.

    Recreation providers, such as schools, sports clubs, and tertiary education providers, also have duties under HSWA.

    The guidance helps businesses and organisations:

    • identify, assess, and manage risks from natural hazards that may affect participants, workers, and others
    • understand their duties under HSWA, the Adventure Activities Regulations, and GRWM Regulations
    • follow good practice for managing natural hazard risks.

    ​Read more about the adventure activities guidance here Adventure Activities – Managing the risks from natural hazards

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Beachside burglars land in court

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A pair of alleged thieves responsible for a string of burglaries in the beachside suburb of Piha are now facing court.

    Between late January and 10 April, Police has received 14 reports relating to burglary, theft and suspicious activity in the Piha area.

    Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Kelly Farrant, says Police have spent the past few months investigating the reports and making a number of enquiries, including the use of CCTV.

    “We were subsequently able to identify two people of interest in relation to four of the reports.

    “Yesterday, with the assistance of the Police Dog Unit, Delta, we executed a search warrant at a West Coast Road property and took two people into custody.”

    Inspector Farrant says a number of stolen items were recovered and enquiries remain ongoing.

    “Our community deserves to go about their business without the threat of being a victim of crime and we will continue to respond and hold these offenders to account.

    “We will continue to actively target burglary offenders every single day, and we continue to ask members of the public to report any instances of suspicious behaviour in a timely manner.”

    A 34-year-old man will appear in Waitākere District Court today charged with two counts of burglary, unlawful possession of ammunition and failure to carry out obligations in relation to a computer search.

    A 32-year-old woman charged with burglary, unlawfully in an enclosed area, possession of methamphetamine utensils and failure to carry out obligations in relation to a computer search will appear in Waitākere District Court on 16 April.

    Police are not ruling out further charges.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Upwell Scaffolding for Safe and Reliable Access Solutions

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: Upwell Scaffolding for Safe and Reliable Access Solutions

    Upwell Scaffolding, a New Zealand-owned business, is making waves in the construction industry by delivering safe, reliable, and customised scaffolding solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial projects with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and client satisfaction.

    The post Upwell Scaffolding for Safe and Reliable Access Solutions first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    – –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ground broken on the first ‘Making Space for Water’ flood resilience projects

    Source: Auckland Council

    Today marks a major milestone in Auckland’s flood recovery programme, with the official groundbreaking of the first flood resilience (blue-green) projects under Auckland Council’s Making Space for Water programme.

    The two Māngere projects, including replacing a busy bridge and lifting New Zealand’s largest sewerage pipe, will significantly reduce flood risk for hundreds of homes in neighbourhoods surrounding the Te Ararata Stream and Harania Creek. Some of these homes have a serious risk to life from flooding.

    The projects are the first under the council’s 10-year Making Space for Water programme and were the first to be funded as part of a $2-billion co-funding agreement with local and central government following the severe weather events in early 2023.

    The area was blessed at dawn by mana whenua representatives from Te Ākitai Waiohua and supported by Ngāti Tamaoho and Te Ahiwaru, with Mayor Wayne Brown officially breaking ground, alongside local Member of Parliament Lemauga Lydia Sosene, Ward Councillors and members of the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board.

    Mayor Wayne Brown and local iwi at sod turning ceremony in Mangere.

    “Māngere was one of the hardest hit communities when Tāmaki Makaurau experienced its worst rainfall on record in 2023, and the community has shown incredible resilience during some difficult times,” says Mayor Brown. 

    “It’s fitting that the first blue-green projects delivered under the council’s Making Space for Water programme are right here in Māngere.

    “Fixing Auckland’s infrastructure and making the most of our environment were among my key policies and why I supported this programme, and the commitment of budget to get projects like these done quickly, to ensure a positive outcome for the local community.”

    Mana whenua acknowledged the importance of restoring the mauri (life force) of local waterways, ensuring they can continue to sustain and support both people and the environment.

    Manukau ward councillors Alf Filipaina and Lotu Fuli celebrated this milestones and acknowledged the importance of the council working with central government with strong community support to accelerate the progress of these projects, including the Order in Council.

    “Community backing for an Order in Council was absolutely crucial in getting these projects approved and shovel-ready in record time. I also want to acknowledge the role that council staff, especially the Healthy Waters and Recovery Office teams, played in getting us to this point and all their hard work and dedication. Our communities were one of the hardest hit during the severe weather in 2023 and these projects will increase flood resilience for hundreds of properties – it’s certainly something to celebrate,” says Cr Filipaina. 

    “This is about more than just managing the flow of water – these projects are about building healthier and more resilient communities for people to live. This work is about reducing an intolerable risk to life and supporting our Māngere communities through some challenging conversations. It was great to acknowledge this milestone for the wider regional programme with more flood resilience projects to come,” says Cr Fuli.

    Working with the community

    A Stakeholder Advisory Group, made up of key community organisations and locals, has been serving as a bridge between the council and the broader community, ensuring that local knowledge is contributed, and broader outcomes are considered.

    “These projects are a great example of how Auckland Council and communities can collaborate to create outcomes that benefit everyone,” said Toni Helleur, CEO of I Am Māngere.

    “In addition to the flood resilience outcomes we’re also delivering social outcomes for South Auckland. Heb, the contractor for the Te Ararata project have employed seven people into full-time employment through council’s Nga Puna Pukenga Skills for Industry programme.

    Project details 

    Work in both catchment areas will address key blockage points so that in extreme storms rainwater can flow more easily out into the Manukau Harbour.

    In Te Ararata, the Walmsley Road bridge will be upgraded to increase water flow beneath it and a debris trap will be installed to reduce potential blockages upstream. A permanent maintenance platform and accessway to the Mahunga Drive culverts will also be built to enable quicker and easier access for maintenance crews.  

    In Harania, the embankment between Blake and Bicknell roads will be removed and replaced with a pedestrian bridge and a pipe bridge for the Eastern Interceptor, which carries roughly 70 per cent of Auckland’s wastewater from Okahu Bay to Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant.

    Harania Stream part of the Making Space for Water projects.

    These improvements will enable the waterways around Blake Road Reserve to flow more freely and lessen the likelihood of flooding in the future. Construction on the projects will start later this month, with completion expected in mid-2026.

    Planning and prioritisation for future projects

    Many communities were heavily impacted by the severe weather events of early 2023. Further areas across Tāmaki Makaurau continue to be assessed and prioritised for future blue-green works.

    You can find out more information about these projects on the council’s website or you can reach out to the team at bluegreen@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: More must be done to stop children going hungry

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    More children are going hungry and statistics showing children in material hardship continue to get worse.

    “I’m worried about children in this country, who seem to be becoming more and more of an afterthought by the day,” Labour child poverty reduction spokesperson Jan Tinetti said.

    “The Government has reversed the measure Labour put in place to ensure benefits rise with the average wage – which the Children’s Commissioner said at the time was the single best thing a government could do to lift children out of poverty.

    “They are running the school lunch programme into the ground, meaning more children aren’t getting the hot, healthy meal that was sometimes their only one in the day.
    “They’ve squeezed lower-paid Kiwis, by refusing to lift the minimum wage in line with inflation – while at the same time they are failing to tackle cost of living issues like they promised.

    “They cut public services for measly tax cuts, which have been more than offset by their decisions to cut free prescriptions, cut free and half-price public transport, and introduced a rebate scheme for childcare that isn’t delivering what was promised.

    “Just this week, Nicola Willis wouldn’t commit to not cutting the best start payment, which helps out new parents and the winter energy payment which helps families heat their homes in winter.

    “The Government must prioritise investment in children and stop making cuts that make families’ lives harder,” Jan Tinetti said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ANZAC Day Events – Art of Remembrance 2025: ANZAC Tribute to New Zealand’s Nurses

    Source: Lindsay Stanley, for Art of Remembrance event on Anzac Eve

    Annual commemorative event at Kāhui St David’s to mark Anzac Eve with a moving musical tribute featuring Soprano Felicity Tomkins, Michelle Thorne, and friends.   A bronze plaque honouring the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps will be unveiled.

    11 April 2025 – Auckland, New Zealand – To mark Anzac week, Kāhui St David’s, Auckland’s centre for music-making, inspiration and social connection, will host the 10th annual Art of Remembrance event on Anzac Eve, Thursday 24 April, with a powerful evening of music, reflection and tribute.

    Event:  Art of Remembrance 2025 – we will will remember them
    When: Thursday 24 April | 6:00pm – 8:00pm
    Where: Kāhui St David’s, 70 Khyber Pass Road, Grafton, Auckland
    Tickets: Free entry – all welcome – tickets available via Eventfinda | www.kahuistdavids.nz

    St David’s Memorial Church, whose foundation stone was laid on Anzac Day 1927 as a memorial to World War One, was originally dedicated as The Soldiers’ Memorial Church. Today, it is home to Kāhui St David’s, a charitable trust,  and serves as a place of remembrance for all branches of the New Zealand Defence Force, as well as Auckland’s centre for cultural connection, community gathering, as a living memorial. .

    Honouring the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps

    This year’s Art of Remembrance pays special tribute to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps, past and present, for their service in war, conflict and peacekeeping. It also recognises the vital role nurses play across Aotearoa – providing care in hospitals, communities, both at home and abroad.

    Georgina Greville, a senior nurse at Middlemore Hospital, whose immediate family included five World War One service members, says: “There were two nurses, two doctors, and one soldier with the Auckland Mounted Rifles.
    “My grandmother and sister were both nurses, serving in Egypt, Lemnos, and on the Western front, including at the Battle of the Somme.

    “The role of nurses in conflict and peacekeeping has historically been overlooked for many reasons. Having this permanent display in the Great Hall of Kāhui St David’s, near the Lamp of Remembrance, the RNZE memorial window, the Sappers’ Chapel, and plaques dedicated to the 28th Māori Battalion and 29th and 30th Infantry Battalions, will be deeply meaningful to all nurses.

    “It recognises the contribution of nursing across all areas we serve – in both military and civilian contexts.”

    Kāhui St David’s is located in Grafton, near the medical and nursing schools and Auckland Hospital.  

    As part of this year’s commemoration, a bronze plaque dedicated to the Royal New Zealand Nursing Corps will be unveiled and permanently installed in the Great Hall of Kāhui St David’s.

    Paul Baragwanath, Director of Friends of St David’s Trust Kāhui Rangi Pūpū, says: “Nurses have served with courage and compassion in every major conflict New Zealand has faced. In what is our 10th year of Art of Remembrance, we honour their legacy, their ongoing service, and their place at the heart of care – both in uniform and throughout our hospitals and communities.

    “We also hope that all nurses will see Kāhui St David’s as their place, together with whānau of the RNZE (Royal New Zealand Engineers), 28 Battalion and Veterans.” says Baragwanath.

    Since launching in 2015 with the Max Gimblett quatrefoil installation, the Art of Remembrance has become a nationally recognised tradition. In 2023, Brigadier Rose King (now Chief of Army) lit the Lamp of Remembrance, which continues to shine daily at Kāhui St David’s, honouring all who have served across the Defence Force and veteran community. Today, the building stands as a memorial for all branches of service.

    Many are expected to attend Art of Remembrance, experiencing the magnificent acoustics of this revitalised heritage space, with performances by Soprano Felicity Tomkins and Michelle Thorne, David Harvey on bagpipes, the Off Broadway Big Band, Helen Lukman-Fox on the 1905 Croft Organ and the audience singing together.

    Paul Baragwanath concludes: “Kāhui St David’s is a place where remembrance lives on – through art, music, and community, and New Zealand’s military remembrance.  

    “This much-loved annual event brings together veterans, whānau, musicians and the wider public in a space known for its magnificent acoustics and deep sense of purpose.

    “This new plaque ensures our nurses, so often unsung, are acknowledged in this special space for generations to come.”

    For more information, visit www.kahuistdavids.nz, and to secure your free ticket for Art of Remembrance, head to Eventfinda: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2025/a-musical-evening-of-remembrance2/auckland

    ***

    Art of Remembrance 2025 – Order of Service

    PŪORO

    The evening opens with taonga pūoro

    PROCESSION

    The Hills of Argyll

    Composed by George McIntyre, a Scottish prisoner of war during World War Two

    David Harvey, Bagpipes

    KARAKIA & MIHI WHAKATAU

    Kaumātua Tautoko Witika

    NATIONAL ANTHEM

    Led by Soprano Michelle Thorne-McHugh and Felicity Thomkins, The Off Broadway Big Band and Helen Lukman-Fox (organ)

    THANK YOU

    Paul Baragwanath, Director, Friends of St David’s Trust Kāhui Rangi Pǔpū

    MUSIC

    Led by The Off Broadway Big Band, vocalist Michelle Thorne-McHugh, and organist Helen Lukman-Fox

    ADDRESS

    Reflections by Lieutenant Colonel Nick Jones ED, former Commanding Officer, 3/6 Battalion together and Georgina Greville, a senior nurse at Middlemore Hospital

    MUSIC

    Felicity Tomkins with Helen Lukman-Fox (organ)

    White Cliffs of Dover

    Composed by Vera Lynn

    ADDRESS

    Lieutenant Colonel Nick Jones, ED, former Commanding Officer of 3/6 Battalion, RNZIR

    MUSIC

    Felicity Tomkins with Helen Lukman-Fox (organ)

    White Cliffs of Dover

    Composed by Vera Lynn

    ADDRESS

    Georgina Greville, senior nurse at Middlemore Hospital

    MUSIC

    Felicity Tomkins with Helen Lukman-Fox (piano)

    The Rose of No Man’s Land

    HONOURING THE ROYAL NEW ZEALAND NURSING CORPS

    Lieutenant Colonel David Foote, Chief Nursing Officer / RNZNC Regimental Colonel unveils the plaque of remembrance

    MUSIC

    The Off Broadway Big Band with vocalist Kaitlyn Tanoa’i

    N.Z.A.N.S.: the Army nurses’ song

    Corporal Anaia Amohau, 1939 – 45

    LAYING OF THE WREATHS

    RNZNC

    All soldiers, sailors, aviators

    Royal New Zealand Engineers

    28th Māori Battalion

    All wreaths welcome

    THE ODE

    THE LAST POST

    MINUTE OF SILENCE

    THE ROUSE

    HYMNN

    HOSPITALITY.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release, fatal crash, Linton

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm the name of the man who died following a crash on Tennent Drive/SH57, southwest of Linton on 21 March.

    He was 64-year-old Patrick Arundel-Lambert from Cloverlea.

    Police extend our condolences during this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media advisory: Police Media Centre closing at 6pm, Saturday 12 April

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    The Police Media Centre will close at 6pm on Saturday 12 April due to staffing constraints.

    Prior to that time, we will be operating with reduced staff numbers and prioritising urgent/serious incidents.

    After 6pm, information on any significant public safety issues will be released proactively.

    The centre will reopen at the usual time of 7am on Sunday 13 April.

    We appreciate our media colleagues’ continued patience and understanding.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal crash, Gore

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash in Gore on Saturday 5 April.

    He was 18-year-old Cyris Michael Wakefield, of Charlton, Gore.

    Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

    Police are working to determine the circumstances of the crash.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greens continue to call for Pacific Visa Waiver

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party recognises the extension of visa allowances for our Pacific whānau as a step in the right direction but continues to call for a Pacific Visa Waiver. 

    “The Greens continue to call for our Pacific neighbours to be granted Visa Waiver status as a necessary step to strengthen and honour our relationships in the region,” says Green Party spokesperson for Pacific Peoples Teanau Tuiono.

    “While an extended visa period will lessen the financial and administrative burden for our Pacific whānau, we continue asking them to pay more money and face more delays to visit families compared to other countries. 

    “This is a missed opportunity to deliver what our Pacific whānau deserve.

    “Earlier this year, the Green Party launched our petition to allow Pacific whānau visa-free access to Aotearoa. This would see people from all Pacific Island nations – those in the Pacific Islands Forum and those not – travel to Aotearoa without needing to jump through the hoops of bureaucracy to get a visa. 

    “Aotearoa is part of the family of Pacific nations. We must remove unfair barriers to entry for our Pacific whānau,” said Teanau Tuiono.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New High Court Judge appointed

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Simon Mount KC as a High Court Judge. 
    Justice Mount graduated from the University of Auckland with a Bachelor of Laws in 1996 and a Master of Laws in 2000, having been a High Court judges’ clerk from 1995-1996. 
    From 1997-1999 Justice Mount was a Teaching Associate with Columbia Law School in New York, also graduating with a Master of Laws from Columbia Law School in 1999. Between 2001 and 2015 Justice Mount was a Teaching Fellow with the University of Auckland. 
    Justice Mount joined Auckland firm Meredith Connell as a Crown prosecutor in 2000, and was seconded to Crown Law as a Crown Counsel from2008-2009. 
    Justice Mount has practised out of Bankside Chambers in Auckland as a Barrister sole since 2010, specialising in public law, criminal and regulatory law, including health and safety, professional discipline and public inquiries. He was a Visiting Justice from 2011 to 2018, a District Inspector of Mental Health from 2012 to 2018, and the Senior Advisory District Inspector from 2023 until present. 
    He is admitted to practise law in the Cook Islands and has been Attorney-General of the Pitcairn Islands since 2015, serving as the principal legal adviser to the Governor of Pitcairn. He was appointed a Queen’s Counsel in 2017. 
    Justice Mount’s appointment as a High Court Judge will take effect on 1 June 2025, and he will sit in Auckland. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland overnight motorway closures 13 – 17 April 2025

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Thursday, 17 April 2025.

    Please note this traffic bulletin is updated every Friday.

    Daily updated closure information(external link)

    Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.

    NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Millwater northbound off-ramp, 14 April
    • Southbound lanes between Northcote Road off-ramp and Onewa Road on-ramp, 16 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Northcote Road southbound on-ramp, 16 April
      • Esmonde Road southbound on-ramp, 16 April

    CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

    • None planned

    SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Khyber Pass Road southbound on-ramp, 15 April
    • Southbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 13-14 April (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)
      • Greenlane southbound on-ramp, 13-14 April (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)
      • Tecoma Street southbound on-ramp, 13-14 April
      • Ellerslie-Panmure Highway southbound on-ramp, 13-14 April
    • Northbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 13-16 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Mt Wellington Highway southbound on-ramp, 16 April
    • Southbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 15 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Mt Wellington Highway southbound on-ramp, 15 April
      • Princes Street southbound on-ramp, 15 April
      • Highbrook Drive southbound on-ramp, 15 April
    • Highbrook Drive southbound on-ramp, 14 April
    • Southbound lanes between East Tamaki Road off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 16 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • East Tamaki Road northbound on-ramp, 13-14 April
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 14-16 April
      • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 14-16 April
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 14-16 April
    • Southbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Bombay on-ramp, 13-14 April
      • Ramarama southbound on-ramp, 13-14 April
    • Northbound lanes between Bombay off-ramp and Ramarama on-ramp, 13 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Bombay northbound on-ramp, 13 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Bombay off-ramp and Ramarama on-ramp, 14 April
      • Bombay northbound on-ramp, 14 April

    NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

    • Southbound lanes between Waimauku roundabout and Trigg Rd, 14 April (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Trigg Rd and Waimauku roundabout, 14 April (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)
    • SH16 eastbound to SH20 southbound link (Waterview southbound tunnel closed), 14 April
      • Great North Road eastbound off-ramp (Waterview southbound tunnel closed), 14 April
    • SH16 westbound to SH20 southbound link (Waterview southbound tunnel closed), 14 April

    UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

    • Hobsonville Road westbound off-ramp, 13-14 April

    SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

    • Northbound lanes between Massey Road off-ramp and Kirkbride Road (SH20A) on-ramp, 13-14 & 16 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 13-14 & 16 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 13-14 & 16 April
    • Northbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and Kirkbride Road (SH20A) on-ramp, 15 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 15 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 15 April
      • Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 15 April
      • Cavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 15 April

    GEORGE BOLT MEMORIAL DRIVE (SH20A)

    • None planned

    PUHINUI ROAD (SH20B)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 22 (SH22)

    • None planned

    STATE HIGHWAY 2 (SH2)

    • None planned

    Please follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

    Current overnight closure information(external link) 

    Auckland roads and public transport(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand’s glacier volume down 42 percent since 2005 – Stats NZ media release

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    New Zealand’s glacier volume down 42 percent since 2005 – 11 April 2025 – Total glacier ice volumes in Aotearoa New Zealand decreased by 42 percent between 2005 and 2023, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    “This 22 km3 decrease between 2005 and 2023 is equivalent to 37 percent of the volume of Lake Taupō,” environment statistics spokesperson Tehseen Islam said.

    Stats NZ has updated its Annual glacier ice volumes: Data to 2023 environmental indicator, using data from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA).

    The environmental indicators Wildfire risk: Data to 2023 and UV intensity: Data to 2023 were also published today.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge sentence of Jimmy Heremaia

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Detective Inspector Dave De Lange:

    Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Jimmy Heremaia in the High Court at Napier today.

    We are pleased to see justice done for Ariki’s family, who have been such fierce advocates for her since her death.

    We know no sentence could ever make up for her loss, however we hope today’s result offers some comfort to them.

    I would also like to acknowledge the investigation team, who put in many months of hard work to achieve this result.

    This was a meticulous, difficult and complex investigation spanning multiple Police districts and requiring many specialist skillsets.

    I thank you for your unwavering dedication to making an arrest and ensuring Ariki’s killer could be held to account.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    Note to media:

    Jimmy Heremaia was sentenced to life imprisonment, with 12 years non parole, for murder and arson.

    Ropine Robin Paul was sentenced to 12 months of home detention for being a party to arson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Nelson’s hands-on message to Te Whatu Ora over patient safety – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    More than 200 people are expected to make a chain around Nelson Hospital on Saturday, to demand a new hospital immediately and enough staff to care for the community.
    Nelson residents will go hand-in-hand with unions New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO), Public Service Association (PSA) and Association of Salaried Medical Specialists (ASMS) to further highlight the hospital’s troubles including understaffing, structural deficiencies and even pest-related woes.
    NZNO delegate Amanda Field says the Government’s failure to adequately fund healthcare means management of Nelson Hospital is being forced to make difficult decisions that hurt both patients and staff.
    “Cutting back on workers and prioritising the budget and targets not only raises health and safety risks for the treatment of vulnerable patients and exhausted staff but also leaves the building maintenance underfunded. Every staff member who works in healthcare has the patient at the centre of their work. As soon as the focus is on targets and budgets the patient journey becomes secondary.
    “We are appealing to the Government for more funding, employing appropriate staffing numbers and a specific commitment to building the new hospital.”
    Field says local communities are feeling frustrated and worried that 23 years after a new hospital was promised there’s still no sign of one.
    “People of Nelson are really motivated. Hands around the hospital is an opportunity for the community to come together and show their concern and support.
    They are speaking out about their experiences. They are frustrated they have been made to wait since 2002, and waitlists are impacting on the health of patients and healthcare workers’ wellbeing.
    “Health and safety of patients and staff is paramount. Doctors and nurses are speaking out because they are primarily concerned about the health of this community, which are all a part of.”
    Hands around the Nelson Hospital starts at 12 noon outside Hospital Main Entrance on Tipahi Street.
    “The chain will be on the footpath on the roadside around the hospital and not on the hospital grounds, so there’s no risk of impacting services,” Field says.
    “We urge anyone who can make it to join us.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health AWARDS – ProCare and Unitec recognise Top Pacific Nurses

    Source: ProCare

    ProCare in partnership with Unitec, is pleased to announce the winners of the Top Pacific Nurse award for the 2024 academic year – Katerina Alapae and Seluvaia Havea.

    The winners were presented their awards at the Pacific Graduation Dinner on Thursday 3 April, where graduates who had completed the Pacific Nursing programme were recognised.

    This is the third year the ProCare Top Pacific Nurse Award has been presented. It recognises high-achieving Pacific nursing students and aims to encourage interest in primary care nursing and support for the wider community.

    Viv Pole, Head of Pacific Health at ProCare says: “This is a fantastic award and a testament of ProCare’s support for our Pacific nurses, with one of our strategic goals being to improve the Pacific health workforce. We are excited to once again support this partnership with Unitec to recognise their talented Pacific students.

    “Our ProCare GP network supports a Pacific population of around 90,000 people. As they step into their careers, these graduates join a growing workforce of skilled Pacific healthcare professionals, ensuring culturally responsive care for their communities,” concludes Pole.

    Bindi Norwell, ProCare Group CEO says: “We’re delighted to recognise the achievements of these Pacific Nurse graduates. Their hard work, dedication, and talent has not gone unnoticed, and we are thrilled to celebrate with them. No doubt this award will be the first of many, and we look forward to following their careers and future endeavours to benefit our Pacific communities and Aotearoa.”

    To read more about each of the winners, check out their profiles on the ProCare website: https://www.procare.co.nz/news/2025/unitec-top-pacific-nurse-graduate-profiles/

    About ProCare

    ProCare is a leading healthcare provider that aims to deliver the most progressive, pro-active and equitable health and wellbeing services in Aotearoa. We do this through our clinical support services, mental health and wellness services, virtual/tele health, mobile health, smoking cessation and by taking a population health and equity approach to our mahi. As New Zealand’s largest Primary Health Organisation, we represent a network of general practice teams and healthcare professionals who provide care to nearly 700,000 patients across Auckland. These practices serve the largest Pacific and South Asian populations enrolled in general practice and the largest Māori population in Tāmaki Makaurau. For more information go to www.procare.co.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New mental health and addictions facility officially opened in Whangārei

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown and Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey have today officially opened Manaia House, a new community mental health and addictions facility in the heart of Whangārei.

    “Today marks a significant milestone for the Whangārei community and the wider region, who will soon be able to access mental health services from one location, where all services will be consolidated.

    “$19.5m has been invested by the Government into this purpose-built, centrally located facility, which has been designed to support contemporary models of care in a modern, welcoming environment.

    “Manaia House, which has 75 consultation rooms, will now provide all of the region’s community mental health and addiction services, consolidating what was previously spread across four separate locations in Whangārei.”

    “Modern, reliable health infrastructure is a top priority for the Government, and this new facility will enhance mental health services in the Northern Region, improve accessibility, and free up much-needed space at Whangārei Hospital where some services have been operating from.”

    The ground floor will accommodate adult and older people’s services, the middle floor will accommodate children’s services, and the top floor will accommodate around 250 staff. 

    Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says the Government is serious about its commitment to increasing access to mental health and addiction services.

    “I have been clear that we need a strong mental health and addiction system that spans prevention, early intervention, primary mental health services, and specialist services,” Mr Doocey says.

    “Manaia House is an important step toward that vision for the Whangārei community and the wider region and I feel privileged to be here today alongside the staff and community to celebrate its completion.

    “This facility represents a significant investment towards people’s wellbeing, and I look forward to hearing about the positive impact Manaia House will have on people’s lives.”

    Manaia House will be open to patients and their families from 12 May 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More former defence personnel to be recognised as veterans

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government will introduce legislation to recognise more former soldiers, sailors and aviators as veterans and will establish a new national day of tribute, commemorated by an annual awards ceremony, Veterans Minister Chris Penk has announced.
    “The Government takes seriously its responsibility to honour and uphold the legacy of our veterans. We’ve heard the voices of the military community, who feel that the current legal definition of a veteran creates an unnecessary divide among those who have served,” Mr Penk says.
    “Under the Veterans’ Support Act, the term ‘veteran’ is currently reserved for New Zealand Defence Force personnel who have completed Qualifying Service, either in deployments where there has been a significant risk of harm to those deployed, or in routine service before ACC was introduced in 1974.
    “While that definition remains appropriate for determining eligibility for support entitlements, it has unfortunately left many who have loyally served our nation feeling excluded, given that they fall outside the current narrow legal scope of the ‘veteran’ definition.
    “This distinction may appear small but is significant. For those who have worn military uniform, the word ‘veteran’ carries profound personal meaning. It speaks to identity, pride, and a recognition of service and sacrifice.
    “It’s more than a title – it’s about knowing that your country understands your contribution and acknowledges the sacrifices you made while wearing the uniform.
    “We already commonly refer to many former service members as veterans in everyday speech, and I believe it’s time that our law reflected this culturally shared understanding.
    “To that end, the Government is proposing a standalone Veterans’ Recognition Bill, which will introduce a broader definition of ‘veteran’ separate from the existing Veterans’ Support Act, and include all former New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel who have received any of the following medals or awards:

    the New Zealand Defence Service Medal, which recognises NZDF service of at least three years, including reserve force personnel
    operational service or campaign medals
    honours or decorations awarded through the royal honours system
    medals for bravery or excellence awarded by the New Zealand government.

    “The legislation will also include a covenant, or kawenata, which will formalise the relationship between the Government and veterans and act as a national promise to treat veterans with respect and dignity.
    “While the Veterans’ Recognition Bill will not change existing entitlements, I am committed to better addressing the needs of veterans covered by the Veterans’ Support Act, including by reducing waiting lists for medical and rehabilitative care.
    “The Government will also establish a national day dedicated to honouring New Zealand’s veterans, which will be marked annually with Veterans’ Service Awards.
    “The ceremony will serve as an opportunity to celebrate outstanding contributions to veterans’ wellbeing and those who continue to embody the shared values of military life after their service.
    “The national veterans’ day will not be a statutory public holiday and will be held at a time of year chosen following consultation with the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RSA) and the independent Veterans’ Advisory Board, to ensure the date speaks meaningfully to the lived experiences of our veteran community, including younger cohorts.
    “I wish to extend my sincere gratitude to the RSA for their advocacy work on behalf of New Zealand’s service personnel, including in proposing the national day.
    “The Government acknowledges that some New Zealanders have historically felt invisible after leaving service – and we agree that this must change.
    “The steps we’re announcing today mark meaningful progress toward a future where those who have served feel recognised and valued by the nation they served to protect.”
    Note to editors’:

    The Veterans’ Advisory Board recommended the establishment of a covenant between the Government and veterans in 2019, following public consultation.
    A significant proportion of the estimated 140,000 people who have previously served in the NZDF will be covered by the Veterans’ Recognition Bill. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland insights from the 2024 Quality of Life survey

    Source: Auckland Council

    Detailed regional results from the 2024 Quality of Life survey are now available, providing more insight into how Aucklanders are faring.

    The survey is carried out every two years and collects information on a range of current and topical issues relevant to wellbeing. 2,524 Aucklanders aged 18 and over took part last year.

    Following the initial release of topline results in February 2025, a report containing more detail for Auckland is now available on Knowledge Auckland.

    Dr Trudie Cain, Auckland Council’s Senior Social Researcher says the new data provides additional information on various factors that influence quality of life, including housing, transport, the built and natural environment, health and wellbeing, crime and safety, and climate change.

    “These results will help to shape Auckland Council’s ongoing efforts to create a thriving, sustainable community where all residents feel valued and supported. While challenges remain for some Aucklanders, these insights will contribute to policies that promote inclusive and equitable outcomes for everyone,” says Trudie.

    While three-quarters of Aucklanders rated their quality of life positively, the latest results have revealed wide variations in outcomes across Auckland by geographical area, ethnicity, and age.

    Urban South Auckland-based respondents were less likely than respondents in north and rural Auckland to report their quality of life positively, as were Māori and Pacific respondents, when compared with other ethnic groups. Older Aucklanders, aged 65 and over, tended to report higher perceptions of their quality of life. 

    Housing affordability

    Just one-third of Auckland respondents agreed that their housing costs were affordable. Young people aged 18 to 24, those living in South and East Auckland, and those who identified with an Asian ethnic group were least likely to agree their housing costs were affordable.

    Issues of concern

    Issues such as people begging, alcohol and drug-related anti-social behaviour, and people sleeping rough were viewed as issues of concern by many Aucklanders. Respondents living in southern parts of the city and those who identified as Pacific were more likely to view each of these issues as concerning, while those aged 65 and older were less likely to view them this way.

    Meanwhile, those living in northern and eastern parts of Auckland were more likely to appreciate the look and feel of their local area, and more commonly thought their local area was a great place to live.

    Social wellbeing

    Despite these differences, Auckland respondents across different geographical areas, age and ethnicity groups reported a high level of social wellbeing. Around three-quarters agreed that the neighbourhood and home they lived in suited the needs of everyone in their household. More than eight out of ten respondents felt they had someone they could turn to for practical and emotional support during a difficult time, and three-quarters had participated in a social network or group in the previous year. 

    Significantly, two-thirds (67 per cent) of Auckland respondents felt accepted and valued for their identity (a 19 per cent increase since 2022), and eight out of ten (79 per cent) agreed they felt comfortable dressing in a way that expresses their identity in public, an increase of 9 per cent since 2022.

    The results will be used by the council to help plan for the future and to monitor economic, social and environmental outcomes over time, as outlined in the Auckland Plan 2050 and Ngā Hapori Momoho, our Thriving Communities Strategy.

    About the survey 

    • The Quality of Life survey is a collaborative local government research project. Several councils participated in the 2024 survey including Auckland Council, Hamilton, Tauranga, Porirua, Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin City Councils, as well as Waikato Regional Council.  

    • The fieldwork and analysis were undertaken by Ipsos. Fieldwork occurred was undertaken between April and August 2024.   

    • All sample surveys are subject to sampling error. The Auckland results are subject to a margin of error of plus or minus 2 per cent.

    • A detailed report for Auckland that presents results by geographic area, and across broad age and ethnic groups is now available on the Quality of Life website and Knowledge Auckland. 

    • Additional reports from the 2024 Quality of Life survey can be found on Knowledge Auckland:

    • Quality of Life survey 2024: Topline report

    • Quality of Life survey 2024: Technical report

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More children going hungry under Coalition govt

    Source: Green Party

    The Government yesterday released its annual child poverty statistics, and by its own admission, more tamariki across Aotearoa are now living in material hardship.

    “The Government should be ashamed of the fact that more children are going without enough food and bare essentials under their watch,” says Green Party Social Development spokesperson Ricardo Menéndez March.

    “Everyone in Aotearoa deserves a warm, dry home, a bed of their own, and a full belly. What’s achingly sad is that we have all the tools we need to give them that and more. All that’s missing is the political will to make it happen.

    “Worsening material hardship and food insecurity isn’t just a statistic, it means more tamariki are going without the bare basics. At the same time, this report shows food insecurity is on the rise, which means more families can’t afford three meals a day. 

    “This Government certainly is ‘Making a Difference for Young New Zealanders’–as they’ve titled their report–and it’s a pretty bleak one. 

    “There is a clear line to be drawn between the Government’s choices and the increase in hardship being experienced by our youngest. 

    “We are already seeing the harm that increasing public transport fares, gutting free prescription fees have had on children. While the Government hands $3 billion dollars in tax cuts to landlords and $12 billion to defence, it refuses to invest in ending child poverty. What is worse, their cuts to benefit increases will plunge more children into material hardship in the coming years.

    “This Government is clipping every ticket they can from those already doing it tough, all while lining the pockets of their wealthy mates. It’s absolutely appalling.

    “The Green Party campaigned to end poverty for all families in Aotearoa by providing everyone with an Income Guarantee that would ensure every household and every child has all they need to thrive. 

    “If this Government won’t deliver for children, we will,” says Ricardo Menéndez March.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Longer wait for treatment under National

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    New Zealanders have waited longer to get an appointment with a specialist and to get elective surgery under the National Government.

    Health data released today shows the Government is failing to ensure New Zealanders can get hospital treatment when they need it.

    “National’s chaotic job cuts and underfunding have taken waitlists backwards and New Zealanders’ health will suffer for it,” Labour health spokesperson Ayesha Verrall said.

    In Q1 2023/2024, 67 percent of patients saw a specialist for a first appointment in less than four months. This latest data from October through to the end of December last year showed only 60 percent got an appointment within four months – a drop of 7 percent.

    “You’ll also be waiting longer for elective surgeries – so if you need a hip replaced, or a gynaecological procedure, be prepared.”

    In mid 2023, 62.1% of patients got their surgery within four months. At the end of 2024, that number was down to 59.2%.

    Reducing elective surgery waitlists and waiting times for first specialist appointments are targets the Government set itself.

    “Hospitals will continue to struggle to meet demand unless we get the basics right; like being able to see a doctor in the community,” Ayesha Verrall said. 

    “But even that statistic is going backwards – the number of people enrolled with a GP is down 2 per cent for the same period in the previous year to 94.7%.

    “The family doctor or GP is often the first port of call when you are sick or need other kinds of health care. But 5 per cent of New Zealanders aren’t registered with one, and even if they are, it’s hard to get an appointment.

    “That puts pressure on our emergency departments and after hours services, and ultimately our entire hospital system.

    “By underfunding GPs the National Government is just kicking the can down the road for many New Zealanders who will get sicker or need more urgent care without being able to see a doctor in the community,” Ayesha Verrall said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ACT welcomes wider recognition of New Zealand’s veterans

    Source: ACT Party

    Responding to changes announced today to recognise more former defence personnel as veterans, ACT Veterans spokesperson Mark Cameron said:

    “This is a long overdue gesture of respect for those brave men and women who stepped up for our country.

    “For too long, the definition of a ‘veteran’ under the law has been too narrow, excluding many who are worthy of our respect and recognition.

    “These are people who trained hard, gave up time with their families, and stood ready to defend our freedoms. That deserves recognition, plain and simple.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Sales on Anzac Day Morning, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day) Amendment Bill

    Source: New Zealand ParliamentThe Justice Committee is calling for submissions on the Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Sales on Anzac Day Morning, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Day) Amendment Bill with a closing date of 11:59pm on 22 May 2025.
    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 10 April 2025 Kura students help bless 10 new Gisborne homes New Gisborne apartments resounded with the sweet voices of students from Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hawaiki Hou as they assisted Kaikarakia to implant mauri (spiritual energy) into the homes.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    As the sun streamed in the windows, aroha was put into each wall in each of the new homes as the students’ recited chants from local mōteatea and karakia they have learned in the classroom.

    Invited by Kaikarakia Morehu Pewhairangi who has blessed many of our new homes in Gisborne, Kura principal Russel Wilson said it’s a great opportunity for our tamariki to take what they are learning in the classroom and use it in the community. “The waiata, karakia, haka and moteatea learnt are all taonga that are passed down from generation to generation. Our students now have a deeper understanding about what they are learning and how it benefits people moving into a new whare. We definitely felt that today.”

    The sunny, warm dry apartments are close to the CBD and will provide a home for ten individuals and whānau who are leaving the uncertainty of living in emergency and transitional housing.

    The 10 new homes are a combination of two and three-bedrooms and include a three-story walk-up building, only the second one we have built in Gisborne.

    Built by Iconiq Group, Kāinga Ora has purchased the light, bright homes now they are completed. The development features universal design standards on the ground floors, insulation, bike racks, car parking, and views from the balconies.

    Mayor Rehette Stoltz says it makes a huge difference when we see homes like this built in our region. “We know Tairāwhiti has a massive shortage and builds like this don’t just happen. They are a culmination of us all working together and playing our part.

    “Thank you for inviting me to the blessings of your new homes and thank you to kaikarakia Morehu Pewhairangi for guiding us through the appropriate processes. I think the fact that we do it the right way – bless the whenua when the projects start and then put positive energy put into the walls of the homes when they are completed, sets everyone on the right path”.

    The new homes are definitely putting local health and disability support worker Ivan Te Momo on the right path. He is legally blind and has been living in emergency housing for the last two years. “The complex I was staying in had lots of corridors to navigate to the communal kitchen and bathroom facilities. Because of my disability, I have struggled to keep my room to the expected standards.

    “It has been difficult to cook because of my sight and because I could not keep anything in the kitchen. I had to carry everything instead, including my cutlery, down the hallways from my room to the kitchen. That was a struggle.”

    In the last year CCS Disability Action has helped me to cook, clean, cut vegetables and take my daily medication.

    “I am looking forward to feeling settled, having my own place and the autonomy that brings. Having a home gives you a tūrangawaewae … a place where you can stand.”

    For the man who used to be a body combat instructor, even when his eyesight was starting to fail, the first focus is his health. “With my cane, I can walk to work from here. It has been hard to get my health in order staying in a place I don’t control.”

    My other focus is finishing my PHD thesis on health services supporting disabled Māori with Te Whare Wānanga Awanuiārangi. There have been challenges, but I am determined to be one of the first blind Māoris to complete their doctorate in NZ. And I want to be able to show other blind people that it can be done!”

    Page updated: 10 April 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested after Kawerau station damaged

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Kawerau Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Al Fenwick:

    A 30-year-old man has been taken into custody following an incident in Kawerau this morning.

    About 2.50am, a person attempted to gain entry to the Kawerau Police Station, where an officer was inside, by smashing windows and attempting to smash a glass door.

    The offender did not gain entry to the station and left the area in a vehicle.

    A pickaxe was located nearby.

    After making a number of enquiries, Police identified a suspect, whom they located at an address in the Cobham Drive area.

    Police cordoned the area, and the Armed Offenders Squad took the man into custody without further incident, just after 6.25am.

    All cordons in the area have been lifted.

    A 30-year-old local man appeared in the Whakatāne District Court today, charged with intentional damage, and possession of an offensive weapon.

    I would like to commend our attending staff for their rapid response to this incident, and for taking the alleged offender into custody quickly.

    We would like to thank the Kawerau community for their cooperation and understanding while we resolved this incident.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New partnerships for social housing

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is on track to deliver the 1,500 social homes funded through Budget 2024 and has confirmed strategic partnerships with five Community Housing Providers (CHPs).
    “In Budget 2024, the Government committed $140 million in new funding for 1,500 new social homes to be provided by CHPs. We are on track to get these much-needed homes delivered by 30 June 2027,” Housing Minister Chris Bishop says.
    “Of the 1,500 social homes, 500 are being delivered through projects previously identified by CHPs as potential social homes. Funding has been approved for 218 places under this pathway, which we are calling “maintaining momentum”.
    “Under the maintaining momentum pathway, contracting is done on a project-by-project basis. This means, if a CHP has three developments they will need to go through the application and approval process three times and have three separate contracts with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). 
    “In the short term, this was the most efficient way of getting on with delivering social homes, because CHPs had already completed some preparatory work on these projects.
    “To make contracting more efficient, the Government is taking a new approach to delivering social housing – Strategic Partnerships. These partnerships will be used to allocate the majority of the remaining 1,000 places.
    “Strategic Partnerships represent a more efficient contracting approach, where CHPs will have more autonomy, certainty, and flexibility to deliver social housing.
    “Under Strategic Partnerships, selected CHPs will be contracted to deliver a set number of places over a specific time period. This means providers can more flexibly deliver, as long as they meet key objectives and outcomes such as unlocking economies of scale and standardisation, delivering at a quicker pace, and providing good quality, value for money homes in the places they are needed.
    “This model moves away from the Government funding homes on a “project by project” basis to one that enables CHPs to spend less time going through approvals processes and more time building homes and supporting their tenants. 
    “Five CHPs have been selected to deliver places under the Strategic Partnership model. They were selected based on their current performance, capability, and capacity, as demonstrated by the social homes they already manage and the quality of the housing developments they have delivered to date.” 
    These CHPs are:

    Accessible Properties New Zealand Limited –
    Community of Refuge Trust (CORT)
    Emerge Aotearoa Housing Trust
    Te Āhuru Mōwai Limited Partnership
    The Salvation Army

     
    “To date, Government has committed to 661 social housing places through Strategic Partnerships – 393 of these have specific addresses identified and a further 268 have been allocated to partners based off of their capacity to deliver. Including the ‘maintaining momentum’ homes, that brings the total committed places to 879 of the 1,500 funded through Budget 2024,” Mr Potaka says. 
    “The typology and location of the specific places that CHPs have identified for delivery are aligned with need. For example, across maintaining momentum and Strategic Partnerships, 46% of places are one-bedroom and 38% are two-bedroom, as need across the country is dominated by those requiring smaller homes. 
    In terms of location, 23% of places identified so far are in the Waikato area, 21% are in Auckland, 15% are in Nelson, 14% are in the Bay of Plenty area, and the other 27% are other priority locations. 
    “The first places are expected to be delivered in the first half of this year, with delivery picking up as time goes on. All places will be delivered by June 2027.  
    “It is important to keep delivery of social housing going. By moving to a more reliable, outcome-focused partnership model, we are setting the stage for certainty for CHPs to provide social homes faster and more flexibly to individuals and whanau in need. 
    “The remainder of the 1,500 social homes are expected to be approved in the coming months.
    “These Strategic Partnerships are intended to be lasting relationships that can adapt to housing need and funding availability over time.”
    Note to Editor: 
    This approach builds on the Government’s recent work to level the playing between Kāinga Ora and CHPs. This includes: 

    Establishing Crown lending facilities of up to $150 million for the Community Housing Funding Agency (CHFA),
    exploring a loan guarantee scheme for CHPs,
    making up to $70 million of Operating Supplement available upfront to CHPs, and
    changing contractual terms to make social housing revenue streams more attractive to lenders.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –