NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Death in Northland, Wellington being treated as homicide

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Nick Pritchard:

    Following a post-mortem examination, Police can confirm the death of a man in Northland, Wellington is being treated as a homicide, and we are appealing to the public for information.

    The deceased is 65-year-old Simon Bird, who lived at the Albemarle Road property where his body was found on Tuesday morning.

    Mr Bird had not been heard from for several days, prompting a concerned friend to carry out a welfare check – leading to the discovery of his body.

    We have established Mr Bird was last seen alive on Thursday 27 March, however we are continuing to piece together his last movements and the events that led to his death.

    A scene examination is ongoing at the property and is expected to continue for the next couple of days. A silver Honda Odyssey (pictured) has been recovered from the address by Police and will be forensically examined.

    Police are going to have an ongoing presence in the Northland community over the coming days. I urge anyone with information that could help our investigation to contact us as soon as possible.

    We also want to speak to anybody who knew Mr Bird, as well as those who saw him, or his vehicle in the last week. This includes any CCTV or dashcam footage you may have of him or his vehicle.

    As part of the investigation, we also want to hear from anybody in the Northland area who has noticed suspicious activity or movements in and around Mr Bird’s address on Albemarle Road.

    What might seem like an insignificant detail to you, could be a missing piece of the jigsaw puzzle for us.

    If you have any information that could assist Police, please contact us at 105, using reference number 250401/4530 and/or referencing Operation North. You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Food cuts and an earthquake bring double the devastation for children in Thai refugee camps – Save the Children

    Source: Save the Children

    Food cuts this month and an earthquake that has devastated Myanmar and parts of Thailand will exacerbate living conditions for more than 110,000 refugees living along the Thai-Myanmar border and could force some children out of school, Save the Children said.
    Due to budget shortfalls, The Border Consortium (TBC), a government and non-government organisation funded provider of food assistance for refugees living on the border, has said it will have to reduce food support this month, affecting more than 80% of families in nine camps. [1]
    The situation inside the camps was already dire, with schools saying limited funding was leaving them unable to pay some teachers or repair school structures [2] ahead of the new academic year starting next month.
    Now, parents struggling to put food on the table are being forced to make impossible choices, with many considering pulling their children out of school to help earn money or support the family’s basic needs.
    With school fees now falling more heavily on parents, many families can no longer contribute towards school running costs, deepening the financial crisis for schools and risking the collapse of basic education services inside the camps.
    “Even if you are not educated, everyone has to eat,” said Saw Paw, the parent of one refugee student. “Livelihood comes first now.”
    Many teachers in the camps are refugees themselves and some have had to seek work outside the camps to support their families.
    Thant Zin-, a teacher who lives inside the camps, said: “I can’t buy a sack of rice with the total amount my family receives through the food card support system. I have children, and to ensure they have food every day, I may have to give them porridge instead of rice a few days a week.”
    Guillaume Rachou, Executive Director, Save the Children (Thailand) Foundation said:
    “Save the Children, along with local partners, is assessing the safety of school structures following the 28 March earthquake including in 58 schools inside the refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border.
    “We must ensure schools, teachers and students in the camps are prepared to respond to natural hazards and mitigate their impact.”
    The death toll from the 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar has risen to more than 2,000 with nearly 4,000 injured, according to the country’s state television channel MRTV, although these numbers are likely to rise as rescue efforts continue. In Thailand, at least 20 people have died and several buildings across the capital Bangkok have been deemed unsafe.
    Save the Children supports 28,000 children living across nine camps along the Thai-Myanmar border. It is also responding to the mental health and well-being of Thai and Burmese teachers and their families across Thailand following the earthquake.
    The child rights organisation is calling on donors to ensure children in these refugee camps are not forgotten in earthquake response and recovery efforts. Urgent humanitarian aid-including food, education, infrastructure, and psychosocial support-is critical to their recovery.
    Save the Children has worked in Thailand since 1979 and works to support children who are most impacted by discrimination and inequality through programmes on education, child protection, livelihood and child rights governance.
    About Save the Children NZ:
    Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
    Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Lower Hutt lands once-in-a-generation deal for city centre

    Source: Hutt City Council

    Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry says securing funding and signing final agreements for the transformational Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi project is a once-in-a-generation deal for the city.
    “We’ve pushed hard to get this over the line, and today, we can say with confidence: funding is secured, agreements are signed, and we are ready to go.”
    Barry said today is more than just a milestone for the project formerly known as RiverLink.
    “It’s the result of years of behind-the-scenes grind, tireless advocacy, and collaboration across local government, central government, iwi, and our community,” Barry says.
    “I’m proud that we have landed a once in a generation deal for Lower Hutt and our City Centre.”
    The signing of these agreements represents one of the most significant infrastructure commitments in Lower Hutt’s history. It will also be the largest infrastructure project in the Wellington region since Transmission Gully.
    Landing this deal has been a top priority for Hutt City Council and the mayor. Working collaboratively with various Governments across the political spectrum has secured it for the future.
    Today provides certainty for both the City Link Bridge and the relocation of Melling train station.
    The new City Link Bridge will provide a vital link between the city centre and key transport routes, including the new Melling train station. It also unlocks the potential for business and urban development.
    Designed for pedestrians and cyclists, it will link seamlessly with public transport and active travel networks, opening up easier, safer, and more sustainable ways for people to move around Lower Hutt. It focuses on the future resilience and prosperity of our city.
    It also lays the foundation for urban revitalisation – enabling both commercial activity and public spaces along Te Awa Kairangi Hutt River corridor, providing economic development opportunities in the City Centre.
    “Lower Hutt is open for opportunity. Come and talk to us” Barry says.
    The new Melling Station will be relocated outside of the flood zone, providing a safer and more reliable service for the city’s growing population.
    Together, the bridge and station will support long-term growth, climate resilience, and a more accessible, future-ready city.
    Construction is expected to start later this year.
    The approximate overall $1.5 billion investment is funded through a partnership between central, regional, and local government.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fire Safety – Check your smoke alarms when clocks go back this Sunday

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand is reminding people to check their smoke alarms are working when daylight saving ends on Sunday 6 April.
    Community Education Manager Tom Ronaldson says the routine for New Zealanders on Sunday morning is simple – wake up after enjoying an extra hour’s sleep, and check your smoke alarms.
    “When you see the clocks have gone back, make sure you push the button on each of your smoke alarms,” he says.
    “That beep is the sound of knowing you and your household can sleep safe at night.
    “When you’re asleep, you can’t smell smoke, but smoke alarms can and they’ll wake you up if a fire gets started – so you can get out fast.
    “Having working smoke alarms in every bedroom, living area and hallway is the first step in your three-step plan to escape a house on fire.
    “If you don’t have alarms, it’s time to put that right.
    “We recommend long-life interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms. If one alarm detects a fire, interconnected alarms will all go off at once, so everyone will be alerted to a fire sooner.
    “In rental accommodation, landlords must provide working smoke alarms within three meters of every bedroom and on every level. It is the tenants responsibility to maintain them and replace the batteries when needed.
    “If you do have alarms – do you have enough, are they in the right places, are they clean, and do they work? Press the button to be sure. If they do not make a sound, replace them immediately.
    “Step two of your escape plan is having at least two clear paths out of each part of the house, and step three is having a safe meeting place.
    Tom Ronaldson says that every year, the cooler weather brings a spike in the number of house fires caused by heat sources, such as heaters, chimneys, ash disposal, electric blankets and dryers. Therefore, it is important people are alert to the risks these items pose to their household.
    “We see at least 50% more of these fires in May, June and July compared with the rest of the year,” he says.
    “So having a working smoke alarm is even more essential right now.”
    Fire and Emergency provides this advice to keep smoke alarms effective:
    • Once a month press the test button to sound the alarm.
    • If your smoke alarm beeps regularly when there is no smoke or fire, it might mean you need to change the battery or replace the alarm. We recommend long-life photoelectric smoke alarms.
    • Clean each smoke alarm with a vacuum cleaner every six months, as dust buildup can cause false alarms.
    • Check the expiry date on the bottom or side of the alarm. If there’s no expiry date, it’s best to replace the alarm.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Climate – March was dry for most; warm for the South Island – NIWA’s Monthly Climate Summary March 2025

    Source: NIWA

    March was dry for most parts of New Zealand, and warm for the South Island, according to the Monthly Climate Summary issued by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA).
    Below normal rainfall or well below normal rainfall was observed across much of the North Island, and northern, western and inland parts of the South Island. Above normal rainfall or well above normal rainfall was observed in Gisborne, northern Hawke’s Bay, and the eastern South Island. The highest 1-day rainfall was 186 mm, recorded at Milford Sound on 17 March.
    Over March 2025, temperatures were above average or well above average for most of the South Island, as well as parts of Wellington, Taranaki, northern Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, and Northland. Temperatures were typically near average for the remainder of the country. The highest temperature was 33.6°C, observed at Timaru on 17 March.
    At the end of March, soil moisture levels were well below normal for most of the North Island, and northwestern parts of the South Island. Soil moisture levels were above normal about Banks Peninsula, Selwyn District, and southern and northern parts of Hawke’s Bay. Elsewhere, soil moisture levels were mostly near normal.
    Of the six main centres in March 2025, Auckland and Tauranga were the equal-warmest, Tauranga was the driest and sunniest, Christchurch was the wettest, and Dunedin was the coolest and least sunny. The sunniest three locations so far in 2025 are Taranaki, Bay of Plenty and Auckland. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: December 2024 quarter – 4 April 2025 – Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: December 2024 quarter presents information on one subset of Māori businesses that contribute to our country’s economy. This release includes data on Māori authorities and related businesses. It does not cover all Māori businesses in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Māori authorities are defined as businesses that receive, manage, and/or administer assets held in common ownership by iwi and Māori. Māori authorities are largely identified through their tax codes as registered with Inland Revenue. Any business within a Māori authority ownership group is also included for the purposes of Tatauranga umanga Māori.

    Key facts
    In the December 2024 quarter, around 1,450 Māori authorities and related businesses were in the Tatauranga umanga Māori population.

    All figures are actual values and are not adjusted for seasonal effects.

    In the December 2024 quarter compared with the December 2023 quarter:

    • the total value of sales by Māori authorities was $1,233 million, up $48 million (4.1 percent)
    • the total value of purchases by Māori authorities was $897 million, up $13 million (1.5 percent)
    • the total number of filled jobs for Māori authorities was 12,160, up 290 jobs (2.4 percent)
    • the total value of earnings by employees of Māori authorities was $253 million, up $33 million (15 percent)
    • Māori authorities exported $254 million worth of goods, up $35 million (16 percent).

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – Final Court of Inquiry into HMNZS Manawanui grounding and sinking in Samoa released

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force
     
    Twelve further factors, in addition to the direct causes, have been identified as contributing to the grounding and sinking of HMNZS Manawanui, the final Court of Inquiry report has found.
     
    Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui ran aground with 75 people on board in Samoa whilst conducting a hydrographic survey of a reef on Saturday 5 October 2024. The ship sank on Sunday 6 October.
     
    An interim Court of Inquiry, released less than two months following the incident, found the direct causes and some contributing factors of the grounding and sinking related to a series of human errors.
     
    In the final Court of Inquiry report, made public today, the Court found 12 factors that contributed to the grounding and sinking, making it more likely to occur.
     
    In presenting the findings, Court of Inquiry president Commodore Melissa Ross, said the factors were: training and experience, military hydrographic planning, orders, instructions and procedures, operational risk matrix, force generation, operational release, supervision, violations, haste, leadership, distraction/interruption and hollowness.
     
    “The Court found deficiencies in the training and qualifications of key ship’s personnel involved in the incident, risks related to the survey task were not sufficiently identified, discussed and mitigated, and instructions or procedures were lacking.”
     
    The Court also found leadership was inadequate in some areas, supervision was not at expected levels and time pressure influenced the way the survey task was conducted.
     
    The report also made nine recommendations relating to:

    • Risk management;
    • Orders, instructions, procedures and information management;
    • Force generation;
    • Seaworthiness and Operational release;
    • Training and experience;
    • Hydrographic capability;
    • Lifesaving equipment and orders, instructions and procedures; and
    • Hollowness.

    Commodore Ross acknowledged those on board the ship for their role in the investigation.
     
    “It was a difficult and stressful experience for some and I want to acknowledge your courage, commitment, comradeship and integrity,” she said.  
     
    “We would not have been able to complete the report without your evidence, and the lessons and recommendations could not have been developed without your input to ensure an incident like this is not repeated.”
     
    Chief of the Navy Rear Admiral Garin Golding said the report highlighted a gap between work as imagined and work as done. This contributed to the incident, with a series of issues compounding the direct cause of the incident, he said.
     
    Several immediate actions were recommended before the release of the preliminary findings of the Court of Inquiry report and Rear Admiral Golding said all of them had been addressed.
     
    “We have not waited until the report was finished to get after what we knew we could start to improve on. With the assistance of external sources, we have completed reviews of areas such as risk management, oversight and documentation, as well as audits on the state of training, among other areas,” he said.
     
    “We have updated our critical incident management procedures, made changes to some of our tools that assist with risk, and stood up a project team specifically to ensure quality and consistency of our plans and procedures.”
     
    Rear Admiral Golding said while some of the recommendations were already underway, others would take longer to resolve.
     
    “Ultimately, there are a range of issues, including the lack of commonality across the fleet, which means our people need to constantly adapt to new procedures each time they change ships.”
     
    To counter this, Rear Admiral Golding said the Navy would be embarking on a transformation programme that seeks to reform the approach to operating the Navy.
     
    “Fundamentally we need to do things differently. We need to adapt to new technologies, change the way we approach what we do, and find new ways to continue to deliver on what is expected of us,” he said.
     
    “This means investing in new technologies, streamlining ways of working, reviewing and adapting training and making sure our people are set up to succeed in their roles. Our people are working really, really hard; they are out there around the globe right now doing what they signed up to do – serve our country and protect New Zealand’s interests.”
     
    Rear Admiral Golding said the decision to proactively release the Court of Inquiry report in its fullest capacity was an acknowledgement of the warranted public interest in the incident.
     
    “The sinking of a Navy ship is an incredibly serious situation, and it is important that the public have a full understanding of how serious our investigation has been, and we owe it to them to be transparent about the causes so that we can avoid future issues.”  
     
    Access to the Court of Inquiry report:
    The final Court of Inquiry report, which underwent an independent external review by a King’s Counsel, can be found here: http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/court-of-inquiry-hmnzs-manawanui

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Over 300,000 Treaty Principles Submissions, and not a glove laid on Equal Rights

    Source: ACT Party

    “The Treaty Principles Bill Select Committee report confirms what ACT has long said. There are no good arguments against people being equal, and more people making bad arguments does not improve them,” says ACT Leader David Seymour.

    “They came in their thousands to oppose the Bill, but only succeeded in showing why Parliament should pass it into law. The confused and often self-contradictory arguments against the bill (analysed below) show why it is necessary to clarify a simple truth by Parliament passing this law: All Kiwis are Equal, forever.

    “The alternative version of New Zealand supported by many submitters, where Parliament is not sovereign and people shouldn’t have their rights upheld equally, is unworkable. The idea that two babies born in New Zealand should have a different place in New Zealand thanks to events occurring nearly two centuries before their birth is abhorrent.

    “High profile bills often draw out Select Committee submissions that don’t reflect public opinion. Opponents will make much of the balance of submissions, but if they believed the public opposed the bill they could call for a referendum where everyone votes. You can’t say the majority decides the matter unless you’re ready for the majority to decide the matter.

    “We have seen wide contrasts between submissions and public opinion before. In the case of the End of Life Choice Act, analysis of that showed 90 per cent were opposed. When that law was put to referendum, it passed by 65 per cent to 34 per cent (with a small number of ‘informal’ votes).

    “When people are asked about the Bill’s principles, they come out strongly in favour. For example when a scientific poll asked about the specific wording of the proposed principles, it found:

    1. The Executive Government of New Zealand has full power to govern, and the
      Parliament of New Zealand has full power to make laws in the best interests of
      everyone; and in accordance with the rule of law and the maintenance of a free and democratic society.
      Support: 45%
      Oppose: 24%
    2. The Crown recognises, and will respect and protect, the rights that hapū and iwi Māori had under the Treaty of Waitangi/te Tiriti o Waitangi at the time they signed it. However, if those rights differ from the rights of everyone, this applies only if those rights are agreed in the settlement of a historical treaty claim under the Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975.
      Support: 42%
      Oppose: 25%
    3. Everyone is equal before the law. Everyone is entitled, without discrimination, to the equal protection and equal benefit of the law; and the equal enjoyment of the same fundamental human rights.
      Support: 62%
      Oppose: 14%

    “The principles in the bill are strongly supported by an average margin of two votes to one. However, even if the principle of equal rights for all was wildly unpopular (as it has been on many issues throughout our history), it would still be the right policy. The reason is that people truly are equal, and the law of the land should treat them as being alike in dignity.

    “The submissions and the opposition parties’ summaries of them show why the bill is needed.

    Here are the key arguments:

    Māori never ceded sovereignty

    “Various submitters claim that Māori never ceded sovereignty in the Treaty of Waitangi, and it’s implausible that they would have. It has always been inconsistent to argue that the Chiefs were all powerful when they signed, but only years later the British superpower was able to trample rights Māori with overwhelming force in the land wars.

    “The truth is that Britain was the superpower of its day, and there were good reasons to seek its protection. A combination of the musket wars, unruly settlers, and concern about possible French intrusion made it very plausible that Māori would want British protection, including from other iwi.

    “Furthermore, Rangatira raised the concern that sovereignty would be lost as a reason not to sign. They were fully aware of what they were signing up to, that people now say they were not an afront to their mana.

    “More importantly, those submitting to Parliament failed to give any workable solution to a country without a sovereign Parliament. Without clearly understood and respected laws it would be much harder for people to build their lives, homes, families and businesses, as is the case in many countries around the world that lack strong democratic traditions.

    “Widespread claims that Parliament does not have the right to make laws show why the first proposed principle is needed. The basic idea that the Government and Parliament have the full right to make laws is essential to a coherent country where people have certainty to plan their lives. Te Pati Māori have shown a hint of the anarchist alternative with their theatrics around the bill and subsequent Privileges hearing.

    Parliament cannot interpret the Treaty

    “One submission claimed ‘Parliamentarians come from all walks of life and have a vast array of skills, however very few have a coherent understanding of the historical context in which Te Tiriti was signed, nor proficiency in Te Reo Māori to understand the true context of the original text, nor the experience applying the principles in a judicial context. (Green Minority View)’

    “Various submitters argued that the Courts, Waitangi Tribunal and various experts can interpret what Parliament meant when it legislated that there are Treaty Principles, but a Parliament of the people cannot. What they are really saying is that the destiny of the country cannot be decided by the people who must live in it. That is a recipe for disenfranchisement and growing discontent. Parliament can and must remain the highest court in the land.

    Other countries have special indigenous rights

    “One Party’s Minority View claims that ‘Canada, Denmark, Bolivia, Sweden, Finland, Ecuador, and the Philippines are a few countries that have enabled constitutional recognition of Indigenous rights.’  This is only partially true, none of these countries have a constitution that effectively splits Governance equally between two ethnic groups regardless of numbers, as many suggest New Zealand should be co-governed.

    “More importantly, there are many examples of bad policies around the world that we should not want to emulate. Canadian indigenous policy, for example, is a very poor comparator to New Zealand, it is certainly not an example we should want to follow.

    Māori don’t have special rights

    “Various submitters were summarized as saying the Māori do not in fact have special rights. This contradicts the argument that Māori have separate sovereignty from the rest of New Zealand. It also brings into question why anyone would oppose a bill that says All New Zealanders have the same rights, notwithstanding Treaty Settlements.

    “The contradiction emerged in one passage from the report:

    One often repeated statement was that Māori were given special privileges under the Resource Management Act. There was no substantive evidence provided for this, and the Auckland City Council in its oral submission rejected that this was the case. It is true that where there is an application for a resource consent for a use outside of the District Plan the interests of Māori, including local iwi and hapu, are relevant to decision making. However it is hard to understand how consultation with the mana whenua is in any way a special privilege.

    Māori do have special rights

    “The above paragraph perhaps brought out the best contrast between those objectors who believe Māori do have special rights, and those who believe they do not. They began by claiming there are not special rights, then concluded Māori are so special they should expect to have special rights!

    “Clearly many people do believe Māori should have special rights, while also claiming to support equal rights. That is why it is necessary to pass the Treaty Principles Bill.

    Māori have a group right to language and culture

    “One of the most interesting themes of the submissions was that the Māori have group rights to language and culture that must be protected by the Treaty. This reflects a genuine anxiety that opponents of the bill have created, that gains in te reo Māori, Kapa haka, and the application of Tikanga might be lost. I take that anxiety seriously.

    “There is no need for specific Treaty protection for Māori language and culture for flourish. Choice programs and health and education, arts funding, and tikanga practices in everyday life can all flourish without a specific constitutional protection, none of them rely on it. All of them are part of a commitment to allowing all citizens an opportunity to flourish and succeed on their own terms.

    “Furthermore, if Māori language and culture require constitutional protection, what about the many other groups who make up New Zealand. Are they somehow not entitled to their language and culture? If they are not, then how can we say we are a society committed to equal rights?

    The bureaucracy criticised it

    Some made much of the Public Service criticizing the Bill. Public servants were the most predictable critics of the bill. The whole point of the Bill is that the bureaucrats got it wrong. If their view of the Treaty was consistent with equal rights and democracy, it would not be necessary for parliament to intervene in the first place.

    The Bill is divisive

    “Others claimed that the Bill has been divisive. The Bill propose that the Treaty be interpreted in such a way that All Kiwis are Equal. What the Bill has done is reveal that New Zealand is divided. Many believe Parliament should not be sovereign, and the rights of two New Zealanders born on the same day might not be equal, depending on their ancestry.

    “The Bill has revealed a drift towards division in this country. That drift to division further shows why the Bill is necessary.

    In conclusion

    “In conclusion, there are no compelling arguments that Parliament is not sovereign, and citizens of this country do not have equal rights. There are worrying arguments that New Zealand cannot function as a liberal democratic state if the Treaty gives different New Zealanders different rights. The Select Committee process has strengthened the case for the Treaty Principles Bill.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

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

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are now in a position to release the name of the man who was killed on West Coast Road, Sheffield on Tuesday.

    He was Robert Alexander McKinley, aged 66, of Ikamatua.

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

    The crash remains under investigation.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland overnight motorway closures 6 – 10 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 Friday, 11 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)

    • Onewa Road southbound on-ramp, 10 April
    • Shelly Beach Road southbound off-ramp, 6-7 & 10 April

    CENTRAL MOTORWAY JUNCTION (CMJ)

    • Fanshawe Street southbound off-ramp, 9 April
    • Southbound lanes between Fanshawe Street off-ramp and Greenlane on-ramp, 8-9 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH1 southbound to SH16 eastbound (Port) link, 8-9 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH1 southbound to SH16 westbound link, 8-9 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH16 eastbound to SH1 southbound link, 8-9 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Hobson Street southbound on-ramp, 8-9 April
      • Symonds Street southbound on-ramp, 8-9 April
      • Khyber Pass Road southbound on-ramp, 8-9 April
      • St Marks Road southbound on-ramp, 8-9 April
    • Westbound lanes between Stanley Street off-ramp and Wellesley Street East on-ramp, 8-9 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Grafton Road southbound on-ramp, 8-9 April
      • SH16 (Port) westbound to SH1 southbound link, 8-9 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)

    SOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)

    • Southbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Ellerslie-Panmure Highway on-ramp, 10 April (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)
      • Greenlane southbound on-ramp, 10 April (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)
      • Tecoma Street southbound on-ramp, 10 April (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)
    • Northbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 6-10 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
    • Southbound lanes between Papakura off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 6-8 April
      • Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 6-8 April
      • Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 6-8 April
    • Northbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 6-7 April
      • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 6-7 April
    • Northbound lanes between Ramarama off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 8 April
      • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 8 April
      • Ramarama northbound on-ramp, 8 April
    • Drury/SH22 southbound off-ramp, 10 April
    • Drury/SH22 northbound on-ramp, 9-10 April
    • Drury/SH22 northbound off-ramp, 9-10 April
    • Dragway Road southbound off-ramp, 10 April

    NORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)

    • Northbound lanes between Hobsonville Road off-ramp and Brigham Creek Roundabout, 7 April (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)
      • SH16 northbound to SH18 eastbound link, 7 April (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)

    UPPER HARBOUR MOTORWAY (SH18)

    • Westbound lanes between Greenhithe Road off-ramp and Tauhinu Road on-ramp, 6 April
    • Eastbound lanes between Tauhinu Road off-ramp and Greenhithe Road on-ramp, 6 April (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)
    • Eastbound lanes between Brigham Creek Road off-ramp and Squadron Drive on-ramp, 6 April (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)
      • Brigham Creek Road eastbound on-ramp, 6 April (approx. 9:30pm to 5:00am)
    • Eastbound lanes between Hobsonville Road off-ramp and Squadron Drive on-ramp, 7 April
      • Brigham Creek Road eastbound on-ramp, 7 April
      • Trig Road eastbound on-ramp, 7 April
      • Hobsonville eastbound on-ramp, 7 April
    • SH16 northbound to SH18 eastbound link, 7 April

    SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)

    • Northbound lanes between Cavendish Drive off-ramp and SH20 northbound to SH20 southbound link, 6-10 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • SH20 northbound to SH20A southbound link, 6-10 April (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)
      • Massey Road northbound on-ramp, 6-10 April
      • Puhinui Road northbound on-ramp, 6-10 April
      • Cavendish Drive northbound on-ramp, 6-10 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: State Highway investment in Wairarapa steps up

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    More road improvements are coming for Wairarapa with three major road rebuild projects and resurfacing works planned over the next three months.

    Work is planned for Greytown, Carterton, and Masterton from April through until mid-June, weather permitting.

    View larger map [PDF, 365 KB]

    These will be road rebuild works and will require the highway to be excavated and constructed with three layers of structural asphalt. Because it is not safe for vehicles to drive on an excavated work site, one-way road closures will be required.

    Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Alliance Manager, says Wairarapa is a priority.

    “We have allocated $8 million to complete the road rebuilds this season. This is a significant investment to improve the region’s highways,” Ms. Hilliard says.

    She says feedback from the community has been clear.

    “People want to see the highways in much better shape. They want safer, smoother roads, and no potholes. This is exactly what this work aims to deliver but it will be disruptive.”

    Ms. Hilliard says people should think of it like maintaining your house.

    “Road resurfacing is a bit like repainting. It renews the road and makes it more weatherproof.”

    “Road rebuilds are a step up. Like replacing rotten weatherboards or failing cladding, it requires more work and takes longer to complete. But at the end of it, you have a much longer lasting and durable fix,” Ms. Hilliard says.

    View larger graphic [PNG, 174 KB]

    The Greytown works are due to start, weather permitting, on Monday 28 April and will continue until Friday 9 May.

    Ms. Hilliard says a northbound closure and local road detours will be in place, 24/7, while the work is underway.

    “Work crews will be working around the clock. The work is also being staged in four sections to reduce the overall duration businesses and residents are affected by the project.”

    “While these works are happening in Greytown, we are also relocating the pedestrian crossing currently at Greytown Library/100A Main Street to outside Mrs Blackwell’s Bookshop and Sharlari Lingerie because where it is now is unsafe. It’s expected these works will continue for an additional one to two weeks after the road rebuild works are completed,” Ms. Hilliard says.

    While the project  is underway, there will be no on-street parking available, and restrictions on vehicle access to properties and businesses in the project area. However, businesses will remain open and pedestrian access to them will remain available at all times.

    More information about the Wairarapa rebuilds can be found on our website:

    Wairarapa roadworks 

    State Highway 2 Greytown Road reconstruction

    Work schedule and detour map

    • Monday 28 April, to Friday 9 May.
    • Works will be day and night, Sunday nights to Friday afternoons, with no work Friday night to Sunday afternoon.
    • SH 2 CLOSED Northbound between Wood/Church Streets and Kuratawhiti/Jellicoe Streets. Southbound traffic can travel through at a reduced speed. See detour map below.
    • The works will be completed in four sections, one section at a time. We will be in each section for up to five days (see map below). 
    • There will be no parking available on Main Street (between Wood and Jellicoe Streets), Greytown during these works. People will need to park on neighbouring streets such as West Street.
    • Pedestrian access to properties and footpaths will be maintained all times.
    • Emergency vehicles will be able to travel through the closure in both directions and access properties at all times providing they’re flashing their lights.

    View larger map [PDF, 317 KB]

    View larger map [PDF, 324 KB]

    Other upcoming works

    Additional work is also planned for the region in April and May that the public need to be aware of and to plan for.

    SH2 Carterton

    • Sunday, 11 May, to Friday, 23 May. Full 24/7 southbound closure, these works will run after Greytown is completed
    • SH2 closed between Hilton Road and Portland Road.
    • Local road detour via Moreton, Para, and Waihakeke Roads.
    • More information will be provided soon.

    SH2 Solway, Masterton

    • Sunday, 25 May to Friday, 13 June. Full 24/7 southbound closure.
    • SH2 closed between South Belt and Fleet Street
    • Local road detours via Vivian Street, Harley Street and South Belt (TBC with council)
    • More information will be provided soon.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH29 Kaimai Range closed until further notice

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises road users that State Highway 29 over the Kaimai Range is closed until further notice between Valley View Road and Soldiers Road.

    A truck carrying a hazardous substance understood to be chlorine, has been forced to stop for safety reasons.

    The highway is closed in both directions while the risk is assessed by Fire and Emergency NZ.

    There is no timeframe yet for re-opening the road and no suitable detour.

    Road users are advised to delay travel and avoid the area.

    NZTA will provide an update as soon as more is known.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to Project Auckland

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Check against delivery.Kia ora and thank you so much for inviting me here today. It’s great to be with you all.Can I start by thanking Fran O’Sullivan for her hard work in organising and supporting this annual event and the also NZME for sponsoring the event as always. I’d also like to acknowledge our Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, Councillor Richard Hills, and my colleague the Honourable Chris Bishop, the Minister of many things relevant to Auckland’s future and success – Transport, Housing, RMA Reform, Infrastructure – the list goes on. He is also, importantly, Leader of the House because you can’t change the law if he doesn’t let you change the law, so it’s very important to have the Leader of the House on site – great to see you here. Also, the opposition spokesperson for Auckland, Carmel Sepuloni, and Shanan Halbert – lovely to see you here today as well.It’s always good to be with you all as leaders of our city – people who believe in Auckland’s future and are committed to its success.This shared commitment mirrors our Government’s focus on Going for Growth – driving positive change for this city, and delivering real results. 
    Context 
    As a Government, we have set a clear, decisive plan to get New Zealand back on track.There is no doubt that our country – and this city – faces significant challenges.At the heart of those challenges are the economy, inflation, and interest rates, which have been tightening household budgets and stifled economic growth. The Government has spent the last 18 months focused on the basics – rebuilding our economy, restoring law and order, and delivering better public services, particularly in health and education.By reducing wasteful spending, reining in inflation, and lowering interest rates, we are easing the pressure on families and mortgages and giving businesses the certainty they need to grow and invest.We campaigned on this, and we are starting to see the green shoots of economic recovery.Inflation is back within the one to three per cent band, and interest rates are falling. This is good news for Kiwi households and businesses and is critical to easing the cost-of-living pressures for New Zealanders.  Just last week, it was confirmed that our economy has also started to turn the corner, with GDP growing by 0.7 percent in the three months to December – ahead of what the economists were projecting – welcome news after a long period of economic decline, which we inherited, leaving Kiwis feeling poorer. Under Christopher Luxon’s leadership, our Government is Going for Growth, and working tirelessly to sustain this momentum, because a stronger economy means more jobs, better incomes, and more opportunities for Kiwis to get ahead. Rebuilding our economy also requires discipline across every part of government, local and central – delivering the services and infrastructure that Kiwis need, while ensuring every dollar is spent wisely to produce tangible results. This disciplined approach is especially crucial for Auckland – home to 34 per cent of our population and generating 38 per cent of New Zealand’s GDP.Rebuilding our economy means the Government can continue to invest in the priorities facing our city, whether that is better schools, more doctors and nurses in our hospitals, or the infrastructure needed for our fast-growing city.As Minister for Auckland, my role is to champion this city’s interests and ensure it receives the attention and investment it rightfully deserves from central Government, and I am proud of what we have already achieved as a Government. 
     
    Delivering for Auckland
    Since entering government, we have moved quickly deliver on our promises and get Auckland back on track. We axed the Auckland Regional Fuel Tax, removing 11.5 cents per litre from the cost of fuel.We delivered tax relief for hardworking Aucklanders, with average-income households receiving up to $102 a fortnight.We have also prevented a 25.8 per cent increase in water rates through our Local Water Done Well plan, ensuring Aucklanders have access to affordable and sustainable water services.This will save Aucklanders around $899 million in water and wastewater charges over four years through the Watercare Charter. I want to acknowledge the team from Watercare for the excellent work they’ve done, as well as Auckland Council who have partnered with the Government to enable this deal. The deal with Auckland Council to financially separate Watercare has also built huge confidence in the pipeline of water infrastructure in Auckland. A major sign of this confidence was the decision by tunnelling company, Ghella, who are building the Auckland Central Interceptor, to keep their tunnel boring machine in Auckland, following the completion of the central interceptor tunnels this Friday. They see the growing pipeline of water infrastructure projects that require delivering in our city. This is what real confidence in the infrastructure pipeline looks like and it’s a privilege to play a part in delivering that. We have also opened new state-of-the-art radiology equipment at Auckland City Hospital’s Regional Cancer and Blood Service.We’ve deployed additional cops on the beat – raising beat cops to 51 in the CBD – strengthening law and order to improve safety in the inner city and across Auckland.We scrapped Auckland Light Rail, halting a project that haemorrhaged over $228 million without delivering a single metre of track.We have introduced legislation for Time of Use Schemes, which will support the Government’s and Auckland Council’s efforts to reduce congestion across the city and improve efficiency of our roading network. We set a clear direction for both roading and public transport projects across Auckland, including the Northland Corridor, Mill Road Stage 1, the North-West Alternative State Highway, the Northwestern Busway and the Airport to Botany Busway so Aucklanders can have a clear plan of future transport projects for the city – both roading and public transport connections that this city needs for the future. And we are restoring democratic accountability for transport decisions, ensuring Auckland ratepayers have a genuine say in shaping our city.Our track record as a Government demonstrates our commitment to delivering real outcomes for Auckland and getting our city back on track.
     
    What’s next for Auckland
     
    But the question is what’s next for Auckland?While we’ve achieved a lot in a short space of time, our work isn’t done. There is much more to do. Two key areas of work that will be underway over the next 12-18 months, which I think are critically to our city’s success, is capitalising on the benefits of the City Rail Link and developing an Auckland Regional Deal.The next 12-18 months see significant change in Auckland as we look forward to the completion of the City Rail Link. This project, started under the last National Government, will be truly transformational for the city and unlock huge benefits for Aucklanders, including reduced travel times and increased opportunities for development along our rail corridor. Once complete, the City Rail Link will be truly city shaping, and will have a significant impact beyond just making transport more accessible for Aucklanders. Unlocking the benefits of the CRL is key to Auckland’s success. Both the Government and Auckland Council have invested billions of dollars into this project and we must make sure that we are getting the benefits from it. Whether it is the work Transport Minister Chris Bishop is delivering with Auckland Council to remove level crossings to keep traffic moving safely in our suburbs, or it is unlocking development around train stations across Auckland, we must make sure that the city maximises the benefits. The Government has also recently welcomed proposals around regional deals, and I welcome Auckland Council’s proposal which has been put forward as part of that process. I hope that maximising the City Rail Link benefits can be part of that deal because that is something we must jointly ensure happens for the city. Regional deals are an opportunity to bring Councils, Government, Business, Iwi and community together with a longer-term view than just the three-year political cycle, about what’s need to enable the key issues to be unlock, whether that economic growth, productivity, housing, or infrastructure. I’m looking forward to the opportunity we have before us to build on the work already underway with Auckland Council, and how a regional deal could support that. As Minister of Auckland, I will be advocating for Auckland to be the first cab off the rank for a regional deal so we can build on the strong progress we have already made for Auckland in the past 18 months. A regional deal will be a long-term plan for the city, outlining how both local and central government can work together to unlock economic growth in our city, build houses, and deliver the infrastructure needed for this city. It is also an opportunity to outline how central and local governments need to work together to solve problems and deliver tangible solutions. Taxpayers and Ratepayers are ultimately the same people – and they expect central and local governments to work together to deliver on their priorities over the long term. Regional deals are an opportunity to do just that and I will be working closely with Auckland Council on their plan to deliver a Regional Deal for Auckland. But, great infrastructure and economic reforms also need high-quality public services, particularly in health, that are efficient and put patients first.
     
    Keeping Auckland healthy
     
    That’s why we’re determined to ensure Aucklanders have timely, quality access to healthcare.A lot has changed since I last spoke to you in March, when I was talking about potholes – but even Bernard Orsman managed to find a pothole at Greenlane Hospital carpark yesterday, and we got it fixed. Some might say I traded one challenge for an even bigger one. In a growing city like Auckland, we need a resilient health system, so that rising demand from a growing population doesn’t mean waitlists balloon out even more than they already have.The Government is putting more money into health than ever before and we are focussing our health system on delivering the timely and quality healthcare for all New Zealanders. To achieve this – we have restored national health targets – which are key to delivering timely and quality healthcare. Unfortunately over the last 6 years, we’ve seen the results go backwards for patients, whether its Kiwis waiting longer in emergency departments or elective surgeries, which increased from 1000 people more than four months in 2017 to over 27,000 waiting more than four months in 2023.It is unacceptable and New Zealanders deserve better. Health targets have been restored to deliver better outcomes for patients because what gets measured gets managed.But performance also depends on infrastructure. Auckland’s population is growing, so we need modern hospitals to keep up.For the expectant new mother needing maternity care.For the elderly patient needing a hip replacement.For the injured tradie needing urgent care after an accident on the job.
     
    Health Infrastructure Plan
     
    At the recent New Zealand Infrastructure Summit, I highlighted 67 health infrastructure projects – valued at $6.39 billion – which are in the pipeline across the country. $1.5 billion of that is in Auckland, including Manukau Health Park here in Auckland, large scale remediation programmes across our estate at Auckland Hospital and Greenlane Hospital.But at current estimates, we cannot build capacity fast enough to meet the demands of a growing population. Today, I am providing an update on the Health Infrastructure Plan that Cabinet is developing. This plan will set a direction for the next 10 to 20 years to ensure that as a country, we build the right things in the right places at the right size and scale.While each project will require its own business case, the plan will set a long-term view of health infrastructure needs across the country and gives Health New Zealand a clear plan to work upon. We know that hospitals across the Auckland region are experiencing pronounced bed shortages, which are expected to increase as the population grows.South Auckland in particular is one of our fastest-growing communities, with significant health challenges. This community experiences higher rates of infectious conditions and long term conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic respiratory disease. The health needs of South Auckland are compounding, and this impacts the whole region, with both Middlemore and Auckland City Hospital under pressure to service the south Auckland population – and this pressure will only continue to grow.A new site in South Auckland has long been acknowledged by the region’s health planning as necessary to meet the growing demand. Today, I’m confirming that as part of the Health Infrastructure Plan, a new major hospital in South Auckland is being explored. The next steps involve detailed planning by Health New Zealand and securing land to accelerate development.This hospital would work alongside Middlemore, adding more beds, modern surgical theatres, and expanded emergency services – easing pressure on the system and improving outcomes for Aucklanders. Kiwis deserve better than long waits in overcrowded emergency departments and long waits for surgery. Patients come first, and investing in infrastructure is key to delivering that.The Health Infrastructure Plan has been considered by Cabinet and will be published in the coming weeks 
     
    Conclusion
     
    We have a clear growth agenda for Auckland. We’ve taken decisive action to ease the cost of living, restore law and order, and keep our city moving.Auckland must be a city that works for its people – where businesses thrive, families can afford to live, people can travel quickly and safely, and everyone has access to timely, quality healthcare.That’s my focus.Thanks very much for having me here.Thank you, and I look forward to continuing this work alongside you all.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Disability working groups announced

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Strong interest in the development of a refreshed New Zealand disability strategy has been welcomed by Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston.

    Membership of the strategy working groups was announced today, drawn from the disabled community, industry and government agencies. The groups will develop actions in the five key areas of education, employment, health, housing and justice. 

    “There has been a particularly strong response from the disability community, reflecting the commitment of people who want to be part of this important work,” Louise Upston says.

    “The Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha received almost 350 expressions of interest from the disability community before making their appointment decisions.

    “In total, Whaikaha is announcing 26 members of the groups, including the chairs, who I congratulate today:

    • Education – Grant Cleland
    • Employment – Lorraine Toki
    • Health – Dr Josephine Herman
    • Housing – Daniel Clay
    • Justice – Paul Gibson 

    “The Ministry is taking a new approach to developing the new strategy, and I will be excited to see the results. 

    “Ultimately, the purpose is to improve the lives of disabled people. For instance, recent data from the Stats NZ Household Disability Survey found disabled New Zealanders continue to face many barriers, for example in education, employment and housing.

    “We know 1 in 6 New Zealanders are disabled, yet three quarters of unemployed disabled people want to be working which means creating employment opportunities must be an important focus. 

    “Disabled people, like non-disabled people, want to participate in their communities, to thrive and make decisions about their own lives.

    “The strategy refresh represents huge opportunities to make a positive difference,” Louise Upston says.

    The Ministry of Disabled People – Whaikaha is managing the refresh process. The draft strategy will go to the wider disabled community later this year for further review before being agreed by Cabinet.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Potential flooding SH10 Kaeo, drive with care

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    People traveling on State Highway 10 at Kaeo are asked to drive with care, with low lying areas of the state highway expected to flood with the ongoing rain and incoming tide.

    Where possible, people are asked to delay unnecessary travel and, if they must travel, to expect the unexpected and remain alert.

    If you must travel, slow down and maintain a greater following distance between your vehicle and the one in front. Be aware of branches and other debris you may not be able to see under the surface of flood waters.

    Please be mindful of contractors who could be out clearing hazards off the road, and drive slowly through work sites.

    People are encouraged to visit the Journey Planner website for the latest travel information, including any road closures.

    Journey Planner(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH 29 / Kaimai Range road closed

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway 29 over the Kaimai Range is closed due to a truck breaking down.

    It happened shortly before 10am between the intersections with Soldiers Road and Valley View Road.

    The truck is understood to contain chlorine, which is reacting due to the inclement weather.

    Motorists are asked to delay travel or follow indicated diversions.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Melling transport improvements to start this year

    Source: New Zealand Government

    • The Melling Road of Regional Significance project will start this year.
    • The project includes a new grade-separated interchange and bridge, improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure, and better access to public transport like buses and trains through relocation of the train station.
    • The wider programme also includes a new cycling and pedestrian City Link Bridge connecting the relocated train station to the Hutt CBD.

    Construction on the Melling Transport Improvements project on SH2 in the Hutt Valley will start this year, Minister of Transport Chris Bishop says.

    The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) has now signed the delivery contract with AECOM and Fletcher Construction to deliver the project.

    “This is a critical project for the future of the Hutt Valley and will be transformational for the city of Lower Hutt – reducing congestion, improving safety, boosting public transport and active transport, and driving economic growth.

    “Of course, Melling is just one part of a complex jigsaw puzzle of the RiverLink programme being delivered by NZTA, Greater Wellington Regional Council and Hutt City Council. This wider programme will significantly increase the Hutt Valley’s resilience and improve protection from floods and severe weather events.

    “Around 40,000 vehicles travel north and south of Melling on the state highway every day, making it one of the busiest intersections in Lower Hutt and the wider network. It’s a severe bottleneck for traffic that slows down commuters and freight.

    “The project includes the construction of a new grade-separated Melling interchange and bridge over the Hutt River, improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure, and better access to public transport like buses and trains through the relocation of the train station with park and ride facilities south of the current station. 

    “The wider Riverlink programme, which also includes flood protection and city revitalisation, has an overall budget of approximately $1.5 billion comprising approximately $1 billion from NZTA (construction costs, property, consenting, design, investigations, demolition and other NZTA managed costs), $295 million from the Greater Wellington Regional Council and $180 million from the Hutt City Council.”

    “The project has been undoubtedly challenging from a cost perspective. NZTA has worked hard with AECOM and Fletcher Construction to bring costs for the project down and deliver value for money in a challenging environment. Approximately $200 million in savings has been found, and Cabinet agreed in late 2024 to provide NZTA with additional Crown funding to deliver this vital Road of Regional Significance.

    “I can also confirm that the wider programme will include the construction of a City Link Bridge, a key connection point between the Lower Hutt city centre and the relocated train station, providing better access to public transport like buses and trains.

    “The bridge will be delivered by Hutt City Council and will help unlock better public transport opportunities and housing within the city. The government has agreed to a variation of Infrastructure Acceleration Funding (IAF) already provided to Hutt City Council to enable this to proceed.

    “The Melling Transport Improvements project will contribute to an already strong pipeline of work underway or about to get underway, while also supporting local businesses, trades, and wider infrastructure opportunities in the region.

    “Over the coming months, NZTA will continue working through several elements of the project’s early stages, including finalising the detailed design. This will help ensure that when construction starts later this year, NZTA can work as efficiently as possible and keep the project on track.

    “I am confident the transport improvements at Melling will have significant benefits for motorists, freight, and those travelling to, through and from Lower Hutt once work is complete, and I want to thank Mayor Campbell Barry, GWRC Chair Daran Ponter, NZTA and Ngāti Toa and Taranaki Whānui.

    “Today is a great day for the Hutt Valley. Getting on with the Melling project will give much needed certainty to residents, businesses, and the wider community that have been calling for these improvements for many years. I look forward to being on site later this year to turn the first sod and kick off construction.”

    The Melling interchange and bridge construction is expected to be completed in 2031 with demolition of the old bridge to follow in 2032.

    Notes to editor:

    • The SH2 Melling Transport Improvements project is one of three projects within the RiverLink project.
    • RiverLink is a partnership between NZTA, Hutt City Council (HCC), Greater Wellington Regional Council (GWRC), and mana whenua Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o te Ika.
    • The wider RiverLink programme includes crucial flood protection and river restoration work flood protection and city centre infrastructure upgrades.

    More information about the SH2 Melling Transport Improvements can be found at www.nzta.govt.nz/melling and wider programme works at www.teawakairangi.co.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Outcome of Timaru’s Evans Street consultation

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) will proceed with the four-laning of a section of Timaru’s Evans Street/SH1 and associated removal of on-street parking, following public consultation and feedback.

    “After careful consideration of all the feedback received, we have decided to proceed with the removal of on-street parking to allow for the four-laning of this section of Evans Street,” says Ian Duncan, Acting Director Regional Relationships for NZTA.  

    “This decision has not been made lightly, and we understand that this was not the outcome many residents and businesses in Evans Street wanted. However, this change is necessary to improve traffic flow for all road users and the wider community.”

    Mr Duncan noted the four-laning is not a new concept for SH1 through Timaru – other sections of four-laning are already in place along Evans Street/SH1, as part of a joint Timaru District Council/ NZTA strategy since 2007. Timaru District Council continues to support this strategy. “Given one side of this section of SH1 is already four-laned, and the other side is three-laned, this change will reduce the domino effect from the merging to one lane then reverting back to two lanes again, leading to a smoother more efficient traffic flow.”

    The opportunity to expand from two to four lanes on SH1 through Timaru every ten years or so when sections of highway are being resealed is the ideal time to make these changes, he said. The four-laning also aligns with the government’s strategic priorities of economic growth, increased maintenance and resilience, and safety, on this section of highway which also services the Port of Timaru.

    Where exactly?

    On the southbound side of Evans St, the new dual lanes will extend to north of Te Weka St, joining with the existing dual lanes south of Wai-iti Road, easing a bottleneck for drivers. On the northbound side of Evans St, the dual lanes will extend north from Beverley Road to merge into one lane prior to the bus stop, just before Trafalgar St. This will require no-stopping lines from the Comfort Hotel to the Coast Motel on Evans St.

    The feedback

    Many of the residents in this area of Evans Street were against the changes as were people providing services to the area, while a smaller number of residents were in support or remained neutral on the changes. Other road users and transport organisations tended to be in favour of the changes. The main concerns raised in the feedback were safety when entering and exiting driveways, the impact on visitors, tradespeople and emergency services, pedestrian safety and potential effects on property values.

    For most affected properties, off-street parking is available, and vehicles can be turned around within the property boundary. Where access and manoeuvrability are issues, NZTA can look at access changes on a case-by-case basis, where possible.

    The road marking changes will be made early in the week starting 7 April as long as the weather is dry.  Once the road marking is in place, with yellow no-stopping lines, drivers will legally no longer be able to stop in the live traffic lanes and/or on the yellow lines.

    Traffic signals synching

    NZTA’s signals team has been reviewing the Evans St/ SH1 traffic signals over a number of days, at traffic peaks and ebbs to see if there are ways they could be improved to avoid delays on the state highway. At this stage, the phasing will remain as it is as any further changes will have more significant roll-on effects on local road access, says Mr Duncan. The team is continuing to monitor the situation leading into and after the four-laning goes in place regardless.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Christchurch homicide: Man charged with murder

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Damon Wells, Canterbury Police:

    This morning, Christchurch police have executed search warrants in Northcote and Pegasus in relation to the death of Tyrone Munns.

    Tyrone died on 9 March 2025 and Police have since arrested and charged a 29-year-old man with murder.

    Follow the warrants today, police are now speaking with a number of people.

    As this is an ongoing investigation and before the courts, police are unable to comment further at this stage.

    We want to assure the community that there is no risk the public.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Explore the seafloor: new maps launched in Akaroa

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    The maps are the result of extensive fieldwork and modelling, and will help rūnanga, communities and agencies make more informed decisions about ecosystem management.

    Iongairo is a partnership between papatipu rūnanga of Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū, the Department of Conservation, and us, with the University of Otago serving as the project’s science partner. ‘Iongairo’ represents the relationship between Papatūānuku and Tangaroa in Te Ao Māori — signifying the special relationship between the whenua/land and the moana/ocean.

    View the

    seafloor maps

    Insights into marine ecosystems

    Ōnuku Rūnanga Chairperson, Rik Tainui, said it was the opportunity of a lifetime for Ōnuku.

    “We hadn’t done any extensive work with any agency in the harbour before and I just thought, this is brilliant. We’re going to use the data that’s been collected to help us determine where we should plant, and do things that can slow down sedimentation which isn’t helping our moana. We won’t have to guess like we’ve done in the past.”

    Wairewa Rūnanga mana whenua mana moana team leader, Robin Wybrow, said the most important part of the project was the collaboration and relationships.

    “A really important part of the mahi was the foundation work, with all the partners coming together to determine how the research project would take place, our shared values, and the direction it needed to take. The group just clicked, which was a pleasant surprise.”

    Environment Canterbury chief scientist, Dr Fiona Shanhun, said that this resource represents a significant collaborative effort to help enhance the way we look after coastal marine ecosystems, now and for future generations.

    “The Iongairo project has provided incredible insights into the marine ecosystems around Te Pātaka o Rākaihautū, enriching our knowledge of diverse seafloor habitats and offering more information than ever before to enable kaitiaki and coastal managers to explore connections between the land and the sea.”

    “Data collected will also help researchers detect and assess possible impacts from climate change and human activities on key habitats and taonga species.”

    Launch event in Akaroa

    Department of Conservation Marine Ranger, Tom MacTavish agrees that information is paramount for conservation.

    “Better marine conservation relies on improving our understanding of what we have here in the moana, where these habitats are and how these ecosystems are affected by what’s happening on the land.”

    University of Otago research fellow, Dr Matthew Desmond, echoed that the Iongairo project was a great opportunity to develop more accurate models and datasets for the area.

    “By understanding on a finer scale what’s happening in each reef system, we can better manage them and understand their health. What we achieved by having all these partners on board was greater than what we could have achieved on our own.”

    About the kaupapa/project:

    Learn more about the Iongairo project:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: End-of-season stubble burning reminders

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    • Pay close attention to the weather: It goes without saying that in high winds, you shouldn’t start a crop residue burn or any type of outdoor burn. Choose days with light winds that will help disperse the smoke.
    • Be a good neighbour: Displaying ‘controlled burn’ signs on road boundaries. This helps reassure everyone that your burn is not a wildfire. Some Fire and Emergency offices and fire stations have signs available to lend out.
    • Extinguish fully: When your burn is finished, double and triple check the fire is completely extinguished. Drive or walk the perimeter of your burn to ensure wind is not taking hot ash beyond the firebreak.

    Report problems with outdoor burns

    Crop residue burning is a permitted activity in Waitaha when the rules and regulations are followed. If outdoor burning, including stubble burning, is causing a nuisance over a property boundary, you can report it to us.

    If you’re concerned about the safety of people, animals or property, call 111. 

    More information about outdoor burning

    Environment Canterbury © 2025
    Retrieved: 9:20am, Fri 04 Apr 2025
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/new-news-events-and-stories-page-3/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Treated wood? If in doubt, leave it out of the burn pile

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Recently, we’ve been spotting chemically treated pallets and other treated timber in burn piles on properties across Waitaha/Canterbury.

    Burning chemically treated timber, painted wood, MDF, plywood and chipboard creates toxic smoke and ash that’s harmful to health and the environment. To protect your health, your community’s health and the environment, never burn these types of wood.

    Chemically treated pallets are sometimes sold as kindling for home heating, but in addition to creating harmful smoke and ash, the chemicals in treated wood will corrode your wood burner.

    How to identify chemically treated wood

    Wood stamped with ‘MB’ (methyl bromide) or ‘CCA’ (chromated copper arsenate) has been treated with toxic chemicals and must not be burned. Timber with a greenish tinge is also likely to be chemically treated and should not be burned. If in doubt about whether or not timber is chemically treated, do not burn it anywhere. The only safe and legal way to dispose of treated timber in Waitaha is dropping it to a transfer station.

    Find out more about transfer stations in your area from your local council.

    Heat-treated pallets stamped with the letters ‘HT’ are safe to burn, but remember to check for and remove any plastic feet or attachments before burning.

    Burning rules in Waitaha

    If you live on a property less than two hectares in area, you can not burn anything outdoors, even if you live in a rural area. If you live on a property over two hectares in area, you can burn dry vegetation, untreated wood, paper and cardboard as long as you follow the rules, burn responsibly, and ensure smoke does not cause a nuisance beyond your property boundary.

    Always visit the Checkitsalright.nz website from Fire and Emergency New Zealand to find out whether you’re in an open, restricted, or prohibited fire season and whether you need a permit for your burn.

    If you live in a Clean Air Zone, outdoor burning is only allowed from 1 September to 30 April (for the Kaiapoi, Christchurch, and Timaru Clean Air Zones) or from 1 September to 31 May (for the Rangiora, Geraldine, Ashburton and Waimate Clean Air Zones). Check all the rules on our outdoor burning page.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Community groups receive funding to protect indigenous biodiversity

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Successful biodiversity projects

    We received a total of 31 applications requesting more than $1.6m. Through a structured selection process, we awarded funding for eight projects. The organisations, the project titles and the self-described project purposes are listed below.

    Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust, $72,550

    Control of infestation and monitoring impacts of pig’s ear (Cotyledon orbiculata) on naturally rare coastal ecosystems on Banks Peninsula.

    This project seeks to document impacts of the invasive weed pig’s ear (Cotyledon orbiculata) on coastal cliffs, basic tors (rocky outcrops), scarps and rocklands, as well as the coastal forest and scrub remnants and grasslands of Banks Peninsula.

    Additionally, it will examine the features driving spread into interior vegetation communities and determine the effects of chemical control of pig’s ear on these ecological communities, using the 1,800-hectare area between Menzies Bay and Little Akaloa in the north-eastern bays of Banks Peninsula as a case study. 

    Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust, $65,810

    Pest Free Community Activator position.

    This project will continue the funding of a Pest Free Community Activator position, to work with community trapping groups across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula. The Activator will deliver training and support, and a range of resources, to support community groups to positively impact biodiversity outcomes. 

    Summit Road Society Incorporated, $58,500

    Linda Woods Reserve (Avoca Valley) plant maintenance project.

    Linda Woods Reserve is a 233ha reserve, made up of Horotane and Avoca Valleys, which is owned and managed by the Summit Road Society. Supporting the Society’s aim of restoring lowland dry podocarp hardwood forest to the reserve, this project is for maintenance of 14,000 native plants in Avoca Valley, focusing on weed control and protective plant guard removal and recycling.

    Diamond Harbour Community Association Inc, $54,108

    Weeding Waipapa’s wilds.

    This project aims to increase the extent of indigenous coastal forest through weed control, natural regeneration, and community tree planting from Purau to Te Waipapa Diamond Harbour. It will reduce environmental weed sources through control of outlier populations and, through community engagement and outreach, inspire and educate local gardeners to remove weeds from their gardens. 

    Port Hills Park Trust Board, $50,000

    Mt Vernon’s rocky outcrops — protection, investigation, enhancement and engagement.

    This project involves the protection, enhancement, research and monitoring, and education and engagement on rocky outcrops of significance within Mt Vernon. The rstoration work within Mt Vernon will be supported by collaboration with research and restoration communities to document and monitor various restoration/intervention strategies and external impacts and influences. 

    Orton Bradley Park Board, $45,000

    Te Wharau Stream restoration.

    This project will involve the protection and enhancement of the Te Wharau Stream catchment to ensure improved biodiversity habitat, improved freshwater quality, higher carbon capture, and higher survival rates for native flora and fauna. 

    Te Ahu Pātiki Charitable Trust, $37,117

    Protecting special areas: selective gorse control on Te Ahu Pātiki.

    This project will protect identified areas on the summit of Te Ahu Pātiki and designated special areas on Mt. Bradley. Te Ahu Pātiki is host to a variety of nationally and regionally rare species, which are all under threat from recent gorse incursion.

    Rod Donald Banks Peninsula Trust, $20,000

    Transformation of the wetland edge of Te Roto o Wairewa.

    This project will control problematic weeds in the wetland edge of Te Roto o Wairewa that the Little River Rail Trail runs through. Weed control in this area will also prevent significant incursion into other high value areas that have recently had extensive weed control treatment.

    We look forward to supporting these projects and working with these community groups.

    Please note that the Biodiversity Fund has only been made available for the 2024/25 year. No decisions have been made on whether this fund will be available in the future.

    Environment Canterbury © 2025
    Retrieved: 9:20am, Fri 04 Apr 2025
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/community-groups-receive-funding-to-protect-indigenous-biodiversity/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Enviroschool students learn through play in Timaru

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    Ākonga were tasked with finding answers to a scavenger hunt on the many information boards scattered around the playground – topics included Māori and European history of the area, the development of Timaru, and geological features. This teaches the importance of being kaitiaki/guardians of the environment.

    Students were taught how to create a mōkihi (canoe) out of harakeke/flax and then race them in the playground’s paddling pool. Mōkihi is an example of a vessel that early Māori settlers would have used to explore the coast, so as well as being a fun challenge for the children, it was also a great learning opportunity.

    The schools then learned about the life cycle of tuna/eels from Andrea Askin-Mills of South Canterbury Museum. The final activity was student-led: planting native seedlings in the dunes of Caroline Bay with the help of Gary Foster. This deep dive into history helped the children consider how lessons from the past can inform the sustainable actions we take today.

    Students raced their mōkihi on the pool

    Debbie Eddington, Youth Engagement, Education and Enviroschools Advisor, organised the day and said it was a huge success. “We all had a wonderful day, and it was especially warming to note the camaraderie developing amongst the students because of the activities we had organised.”

    Outing benefits all

    Kelly Martin, a teacher at Waimataitai Primary School, was delighted by the “range of different activities for the children – it has been a fabulous day.”

    The ākonga now have more knowledge of the area they can take back to their schools. 12-year-old James from Waimataitai said he had “no idea that there were different types of eels – that was interesting to learn.”

    Ākonga from St Joseph’s Fairlie highlighted the next steps they want to take in their learning journey: visit the eels at Opuha Dam and share what they learned with their classmates.

    “The students we work with are our future decision makers,” said Debbie. “It’s great to get them learning about the environment that they will look after.”

    Gary assists the students to plant the dunes

    “It is important for us as a council to raise awareness of the big issues around the sustainable management of our natural resources.” – Debbie Eddington

    Educating our future leaders

    Enviroschools is an environmental action-based programme where young people are empowered to design and lead sustainability projects in their schools, neighbourhoods, and cities.

    We coordinate the Enviroschools programme in Canterbury, working alongside Toimata and our regional partners to create a vibrant and supportive regional Enviroschools network.

    Our team of experienced facilitators guide, motivate and support our network of schools to develop their Enviroschools journey.

    Environment Canterbury © 2025
    Retrieved: 9:20am, Fri 04 Apr 2025
    ecan.govt.nz/get-involved/news-and-events/2025/enviroschool-students-learn-through-play-in-timaru/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Crash closes State Highway 58, Pāuatahanui – Paremata (SH58 open)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Update 4 April, 6:15 am: State Highway 58 has reopened overnight following a car crash early yesterday (Thursday) evening.

    The highway reopened around 11 pm after being closed to traffic for almost five hours.

    Update 8:10 pm:

    State Highway 58 remains closed this evening between Postgate Drive and James Cook Drive.

    The Police Crash Unit is investigating, and the route is likely to remain closed until its work is completed.

    Drivers should continue to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

    Drivers travelling between Pāuatahanui and Paremata can detour via James Cook Drive, Discovery Drive, Spinnaker Drive and Postgate Drive.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    Highway conditions – Wellington(external link)

    6:30 pm:

    State Highway 58 is  currently closed between Postgate Drive and James Cook Drive following a crash earlier this evening.

    A car is reported to have rolled near the James Cook Drive intersection. The incident was reported around 6 pm.

    Drivers are asked to avoid the area, delay their travel, or and use an alternative route. Local road detours are available.

    Emergency services and contractors are at the scene.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Precautionary closure of SH6 north of Haast overnight with ongoing heavy rain

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    SH6 from Haast to Knights Point/Lake Moeraki in South Westland will close at 7 pm tonight (3 April) as a precautionary measure, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    The road will reopen at 8 am Friday, subject to an inspection to check for any slips or debris associated with the current rain near the area of the Epitaph Slip.

    Heavy rain has been falling across the West Coast region today, creating surface flooding along SH6 from South Westland into Buller District as well as over Tasman and Top of the South.

    People should check the NZTA traffic and travel/ Journey pages for updates or changes if travelling overnight or early tomorrow:

    Highway conditions – West coast(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mental Health targets show increasing access

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey says second quarter mental health and addiction target data indicates New Zealanders are seeing genuine progress in improving wait times and increasing access to timely mental health support.
    “It is encouraging to see all three of our wait time targets are improving and two of those targets are already being met at a national level,” Mr Doocey says.
    “This includes a 3.1 per cent increase in the overall number of people who are now accessing primary mental health and addiction services within one week. And a 1.5 per cent increase of Kiwis accessing specialist mental health and addiction services within three weeks.
    “The results released today reinforce the Government’s commitment to increasing access to timely mental health and addiction support. I’m pleased the targets and numbers are going in the right direction overall which results in better access for Kiwis.
    “There is still plenty of work to be done, and I will continue in my efforts to drive change. This is evident at a local level where certain districts and population groups aren’t receiving the same level of access.
    “While it’s positive to see an increase in the shorter stays in ED target, today’s results highlight there is a lot more work to do to reach 95 per cent of people admitted, discharged, or transferred from an ED within six hours.
    “This data provides a clearer understanding than we’ve ever had before. It provides clarity on the regions that are underperforming and in need of further improvement to bring them up to the national target.
    “I’ve recently met with Health NZ’s four regional deputy chief executives and tasked them with developing action plans for supporting and improving underperforming services within the regions.
    “As New Zealand’s first Minister for Mental Health, I am clear that accountability is vital and that we will continue to take a proactive approach to improving access and providing timely mental health and addiction support when and where it’s needed.”
    Note for editors:•    Factsheets for quarter two results can be found here.•    Faster access to specialist mental health and addiction services: target of 80 percent of people accessing specialist mental health and addiction services are seen within three weeks.o    81.9 percent of people were seen by specialist mental health service within three weeks in quarter 2, compared with 80.4 percent in quarter 1.
    •    Faster access to primary mental health and addiction services: target of 80 percent of people accessing primary mental health and addiction services through the Access and Choice programme are seen within one week.o    83.9 percent of people were seen by primary mental health service within one week in quarter 2, compared with 80.8 percent in quarter 1.
    •    Shorter mental health and addiction-related stays in emergency departments: target of 95 percent of mental health and addiction-related emergency department presentations are admitted, discharged, or transferred from an emergency department within six hours.o    65 percent of people were admitted, discharged, or transferred from an emergency department within six hours in quarter 2, compared with 63.5 percent in quarter 1.
    •    Increased mental health and addiction workforce development: target of training 500 mental health and addiction professionals each year.o    Increased mental health and addiction workforce development – 457
    •    Strengthened focus on prevention and early intervention: target of 25 percent of mental health and addiction investment is allocated towards prevention and early intervention.o    24.4% of investment allocated towards prevention and early intervention 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Appointments to Pharmac Board

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour has appointed two new people to the Pharmac Board and reappointed a current member for a second term. 
    Chartered accountant Talia Anderson-Town joined the Board in 2021 and has now been appointed for a further three years. 
    The two new Board members are:

    Lucy Elwood, a lawyer with significant governance and leadership experience including roles as CEO of the Cancer Society of New Zealand and Chair of Rare Disorders NZ
    Anna Adams, a barrister with experience in health law, public policy and regulatory systems. Her previous governance roles have included Board membership of the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand. 

    Other Board members include Chair Paula Bennett, Peter Bramley, and Dr Margaret Wilsher. 
    “Last year in my letter of expectations I made it clear that I want Pharmac to work in partnership with consumers, clinicians, suppliers and the health sector to improve health outcomes for New Zealanders underpinned by robust data and evidence,” says Mr Seymour.
    “I’m confident this board will provide the strategic direction and governance needed to deliver on my expectations for a world class medicines and medical devices agency.”
    He also thanked departing Board member Diana Siew, who steps down this month after a three-year term. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Pharmac Listens To Patient Voice

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister David Seymour welcomes Pharmac opening consultation on their proposal to fund two brands of oestradiol patches. 
    “Increasing availability of medicines has always been a priority of mine. For many New Zealanders, funding for pharmaceuticals is life or death, or the difference between a life of pain and suffering or living freely,” Mr Seymour says.
    “For the first time, Pharmac has its own Minister. Last year I outlined in my letter of expectations that Pharmac should have appropriate processes for ensuring that people living with an illness, along with their carers and family, can participate in and provide input into decision-making processes around medicines – this is committed to in the Act-National Coalition Agreement.
    “Pharmac received significant feedback at the end of last year about a decision to move to Estradiol TDP Mylan as the only funded brand of oestradiol patch. They heard very clearly that the TDP Mylan brand of patch did not work for everyone, and that people wanted options. 
    From today Pharmac will begin consulting on a proposal to fund two brands of oestradiol patches, Estradot and Estradiol TDP Mylan, from December 2025.
    “Pharmac has been working and engaging with people who use oestradiol patches, menopause specialists, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, advocacy groups and petition founders to reflect their feedback in a new proposal to fund both Estradot and TDP Mylan patches,” Mr Seymour says.
    “The redirection of Pharmac remains positive and continues towards a more adaptable and patient-centered approach to funding medicines.
    “The decision to begin consultation to fund Estradot and Estradiol TDP Mylan from December 2025 follows the Pharmac Consumer Engagement Workshop Report, last year’s Medicines Summit, my letter of expectations, and the acceptance of Patient Voice Aotearoa’s White Paper as steps towards a system which works for the people it serves.
    “The Government is doing its part. Last year this government allocated Pharmac its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, and a $604 million uplift to give Pharmac the financial support it needs to carry out its functions – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders.
    “We want to build a world-class health system, and that requires access to world-class medicines.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two new charter schools announced

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Two new sponsors have been contracted to open two new charter schools and will join the seven that are successfully operating already, Associate Education Minister David Seymour announced today. 
    “Tōtara Park School and Twin Oaks Classical School, both in Auckland, have signed contracts with the Charter School Agency,” Mr Seymour says.
    “Twin Oaks will cater for students in Years 1 to 9 when it opens in July this year and by 2027 will accommodate students up to Year 13. 
    “Tōtara Park will open in Term 1 next year. It will begin with a Years 1 to 4 cohort and by 2027 it will take students up to Year 6. 
    “Both these schools demonstrate the innovation inherent in the charter school model. 
    “Students attending Twin Oaks Classical School will spend the first three days of the week at school and the last two days learning from home. The school will train and support parents and provide clear expectations for work that students complete at home. This partnership approach is based on the classical Charlotte Mason approach. 
    “Tōtara Park is based on the Pared model of schooling which features a personalised mentoring system. Mentors support parents in exercising their duty as primary educators. An individual mentor, selected from the teachers and learning assistants at the school, is appointed to each student and given the necessary training to fulfil this role. 
    “Expressions of interest for new charter schools have closed. As expected, there has been keen interest from sponsors. The next step for sponsors who have expressed interest is the application form which must be completed by May 16. EOIs for state or state-integrated schools considering converting to charter schools close at 5pm on 11 April, and applications for converting schools close at noon on 27 June.
    “This demand not only highlights the need, but also the commitment of sponsors to provide innovative educational opportunities. 
    “Charter schools provide educators with greater autonomy and create diversity in New Zealand’s education system. They have been proven to raise overall educational achievement, especially for students who are underachieving or disengaged from the standard system. 
    “Charter schools have greater flexibility to respond to diverse student needs in innovative ways, but in return they have greater accountability.  
    “We’re on our way to building a lasting network of schools that will support and improve the educational achievement.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –