NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: University Research – Vaping a gateway to smoking, study shows – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    New research shows progress on adolescent quit-smoking slowed after vapes were introduced.

    E-cigarette companies have argued that vaping displaces smoking for young people, but a new study, looking at 25 years of data on Kiwi teenagers, shows this is not the case.
     
    The new research, from Cancer Council NSW, the University of Sydney’s Daffodil Centre, and University of Auckland, on vaping and smoking trends among New Zealand adolescents is challenging previous findings used to lobby against effective e-cigarette policies.
     
    The research examines the potential impact of vaping on smoking trends among nearly 700,000 students aged 14 to 15 years old (Year 10) over a 25-year period.
     
    University of Auckland research fellow Dr Lucy Hardie, School of Population Health, says youth smoking rates in New Zealand were declining steeply before vapes came on the scene in 2010, but that progress has slowed. See Lancet Regional Health—Western Pacific.
     
    In 2023, approximately 12.6 percent of 14 to 15-year-old students in New Zealand had ever smoked, nearly double the 6.6 percent predicted in the pre-vaping era.
     
    Similarly, in 2023, around 3 percent of students were smoking regularly, but this rate would have been just 1.8 percent had it followed its pre-vaping trend.
     
    The research contradicts an earlier influential study from 2020 that suggested vaping might be displacing smoking among New Zealand youth. See Lancet Public Health.
     
    The new study uses the same data but draws on a much wider time period, Hardie explains.
     
    The researchers found that vaping may have actually slowed New Zealand’s progress in preventing adolescent smoking.
     
    Sam Egger, statistician at the Daffodil Centre for research on cancer control and policy, says, “This new research shows the prevalence of daily vaping in New Zealand increased from 1.1 percent in 2015 to 10 percent in 2023 marking a staggering nine-fold increase over eight years.”
     
    Hardie says, “New Zealand’s policy settings are too lenient. Vapes are addictive, appealing and easily accessible to young people. The high rates of use indicate vaping is normalised within New Zealand youth culture, which may influence experimentation with other nicotine products, such as smoking.”
     
    This study highlights the need for a stronger response to youth vaping, Hardie says.
     
    “Unfortunately, the most effective policies to reduce smoking, such as the smoke-free generation, were repealed in 2023.
     
    “The coalition’s approach to smoking seems to rely on vaping and other nicotine products.
     
    “This study shows that vaping is not the silver bullet we had hoped to reduce smoking and, in fact, vaping may have hindered progress among young people.”
     
    Read: Trends in smoking prevalence among 14–15-year-old adolescents before and after the emergence of vaping in New Zealand; an interrupted time series analysis of repeated cross-sectional data, 1999–2023: http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpub/article/PIIS2468-2667(19)30241-5/fulltext?uuid=uuid%3A3ac3e54a-19e9-4064-9247-7bc9ad2170b4
     
    About The Daffodil Centre: The Daffodil Centre is a joint venture between Cancer Council NSW and the University of Sydney. As a leading research centre on cancer control and policy, the Daffodil Centre provides timely and relevant evidence to national and international policy-makers to inform best-practice decision-making in cancer control. For more information on the Daffodil Centre, visit daffodilcentre.org

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Awards – NZVA announces 2025 veterinary award winners

    Source: NZ Veterinary Association

    Everyone from experienced veterinarians and young professionals, to the Wormwise programme and outstanding clinics, have been recognised in this year’s New Zealand Veterinary Association Te Pae Kīrehe (NZVA) awards.
    NZVA Chief Executive Kevin Bryant congratulated all the recipients who represented teams and clinics across the country.
    “We are delighted to announce the NZVA Award winners for 2025,” he said. “Every year we are presented with an incredibly high calibre of nominees, which shows the high quality, standards, and professionalism of veterinarians here in Aotearoa.”
    “The winners all demonstrate excellence in the field of veterinary medicine. The awards recognise the significant accomplishments, exemplary leadership, and tireless commitment in our veterinary community.”
    The award winners are:
    Community Engagement Award
    The winner for 2025 is Story Vets (Anexa Veterinary Services). Launched in 2024, Story Vets is an educational kit for year 4-8 school pupils designed to help attract young people into the veterinary profession. The newly-established Community Engagement Award recognises individuals or organisations that have made outstanding contributions to community outreach and education related to animal health and welfare.
    Veterinary Impact Award
    This year, the NZVA Awards Committee presented two Veterinary Impact Awards. One went to Ginny Dodunski for significantly raising the profile of the Wormwise programme in her role as Production Manager. Neil Chesterton received the other award for his long career in the dairy industry, which has included a focus on cow lameness and behaviour. The Veterinary Impact Award is presented to individuals who have made a considerable positive impact for the veterinary profession.
    Veterinary Business Excellence Award
    The 2025 winner is Vet Services Hawke’s Bay (VSHB), which has earned a reputation as a supportive and visionary employer, consistently prioritising the professional wellbeing and development of their staff. The Veterinary Business Excellence Award recognises business excellence that supports employee wellbeing, workplace innovation, entrepreneurial flair, professional leadership and collaboration, and/or customer service in a way that reflects positively on the veterinary profession.
    Environmental Sustainability Award
    Lewis Griffiths (VetSalus) wins the Environmental Sustainability Award for VetSalus’ role in promoting One Health and increasing the recognition of the critical connection between animal and human life and the environment. The Environmental Sustainability Award acknowledges leadership and/or collaboration to improve environmental sustainability.
    Outstanding Service Award
    The Committee presented Stephen Hopkinson with the Outstanding Service Award for his many hours of voluntary service to the profession. He has held numerous roles, including DCV Committee Member, DCV President, NZVA Board Member, and the inaugural Member Advisory Group Chair. The Outstanding Service Award recognises long and valued service to the NZVA, including individuals who go above and beyond for the betterment of the veterinary profession.
    President’s Award
    The winner of the President’s Award for 2025 is Mark Bryan, who has had an extensive career dedicated to advancing veterinary science and animal welfare. He has volunteered 20 years’ service to the NZVA as a DCV Committee Member, Board Member and Antimicrobial Resistance Committee Chair. The President’s Award recognises meritorious service to the veterinary profession in the broadest sense.
    Young Veterinarian Award
    The winner of the Young Veterinarian Award 2025 is Jordi Hoult, who provides mentorship across sectors and inspires young veterinarians and professionals to explore diverse career pathways. The Young Veterinarian Award honours individuals who have shown outstanding veterinary, communication, and leadership skills since graduating as a veterinarian.
    The NZVA Awards will be presented at the award’s celebration dinner at Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre on 5 June.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Awards – Workplace wellbeing champions from across Aotearoa are celebrated at the 2025 Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards

    Source: Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards

     

    The winners of the 2025 Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards were announced Thursday, March 20, at a ceremony in Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland.

     

    Taking home gold across the six categories in recognition of achievements by individuals and organisations, were Waikato-Tainui, ASB, ORIX New Zealand, Netsafe, Jen Southan (ORIX NZ) and Dominic Quin (Foodstuffs). 

     

    The Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards encourage businesses to innovate in workplace wellbeing, driving employee engagement and business success, and to celebrate those who have made wellbeing central to their strategy and part of their organisation’s culture.

     

    Nick Astwick, CEO Southern Cross Health Insurance says, “Our 2024 Healthy Futures report confirmed that 89% of people agree they, and the businesses they work for, would flourish if employers made workplace health and wellbeing a priority. The Wayfinder Awards acknowledge those organisations which have made the concerted decision to put their people’s wellbeing front and centre and are therefore reaping the benefits of their innovation and commitment.

     

    “To hear their stories and see the increased productivity, reduced turnover and high levels of engagement, particularly against a tough operating environment, was truly inspiring for me and the panel of expert judges who helped determine our winners for 2025.”

     

    Three of the awards – Small Business, Medium Business and Large Business – celebrate companies which have woven workplace wellbeing into their core strategy.

     

    Netsafe won gold in the Small Business Award category. Dr Ellen Joan Ford said, “One of the things that really stood out was where businesses offered flexibility as part of their wellbeing initiatives. I am a firm believer in flexibility and think this is the way of the future – we should be focusing on outputs not hours. (Netsafe) has Super impressive employee engagement scores and I love their ‘Flexible First’ work policy.

     

    The gold Medium Business Award went to ORIX NZ, with judge Rob Holmes from PaperKite saying, “ORIX balances fiscal priorities with holistic wellbeing, and has created a workplace where employees feel valued and can thrive.”

     

    ASB was awarded gold for the Large Business Award, with Dr Quinlan noting, “ASB is leading the way for other large organisations in New Zealand, setting new standards for employee care and benefits. Aligning benefits with their people promise, they have listened and designed the benefits that meet their people’s needs. It’s a carefully considered approach that employees are already appreciating.”

     

    Waikato-Tainui is the recipient of the gold New Horizon award which focuses on innovation in workplace wellbeing. The iwi is committed to addressing the unique health challenges faced by kaumaatua, who are disproportionately affected by health issues and struggle to access healthcare.

     

    Judge Melanie Beirne (Ngāi Tahu) said, “This initiative (from Waikato-Tainui) taps into the powerful influence and potential of iwi, creating a direct pathway to connect with hard-to-reach, under-served communities. By removing cost barriers, it opens up access to health, well-being, and financial stability. Its innovative approach is not just transforming lives of kaumaatua — it’s setting a new way of working and standard that has the potential to inspire other iwi to follow suit. If adopted, the ripple effect of this change has the potential to uplift communities across Aotearoa.”

     

    The first of the individual awards was won by Jen Southan of ORIX NZ. The Star Wayfarer Award recognises someone who has made a tangible difference and impact to wellbeing within the workplace. Rob Holmes said, “Jen’s relentless passion for wellbeing has inspired transformative change at ORIX, creating an inclusive culture where employees feel supported and valued.”

     

    The True North Award acknowledges a people-leader who has made an outstanding contribution to the wellbeing of their team. Recipient Dominic (Dom) Quin of Foodstuffs was acknowledged as exceptional by his team and the judges, in fact Dr Denise Quinlan said, “can we clone this leader?”.

     

    Nick Astwick concurred, saying “Dom deeply believes “anyone can be a leader” and he coaches and inspires his team to engage in courageous conversations. He shifted the team from an outcomes-led business to a human led business with stunning results. A truly high performing leader.”

     

    Reflecting on the Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards, Astwick was struck by one key theme which stood out for most successful entries.

     

    “The health and wellbeing needs of people change with age, stage, and personal situations. One of the innovations this year was a focus on personalising health and wellbeing programmes to ensure they are relevant for all.

     

    “Our purpose at Southern Cross Health Insurance is to empower our members to live well for longer. More than half of our members are with us through group schemes offered by organisations which understand that good health is good for business. It is so heartening, even as many businesses, even ours, have faced so many economic headwinds that leading New Zealand companies of all shapes and sizes are investing in their people’s wellbeing and taking people’s circumstances into account,” said Astwick.

     

    He added, “We’d like to acknowledge all the entries we received from across New Zealand and whakamihi/congratulate our gold, silver, and bronze winners. You are leading the way for business in Aotearoa.” 

     

    The strong line-up of health industry and business leaders who joined Nick Astwick, on the Wayfinder Awards judging panel, included:

     

    • Dr Denise Quinlan, MAPP, PhD – Director of the NZ Institute of Wellbeing & Resilience 
    • Dr Ellen Joan Ford, MBA, PhD – Award winning Leader, Military Veteran,
      International Speaker and Facilitator
    • Melanie Beirne (Ngāi Tahu) – Gallup certified coach, Entrepreneur, Leader, Facilitator, and Māmā of two
    • Rob Holmes, Discovery Director, PaperKite and an inaugural winner of the 2023 Wayfinder True North Award

     

    The 2025 Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards winners are:

     

    Star Wayfarer Award

    Gold – Jen Southan, ORIX NZ

    Silver – Tracey Chaplin, Ceres New Zealand LLC

    Bronze – Corrina McIndoe, Spectrum Consulting Limited and Caley Staveley, Outerdawn

     

    True North Award*

    Gold – Dominic Quin, Foodstuffs NZ

    Silver – Lorraine Bryant, Spectrum Consulting Ltd

     

    Small Business Award

    Gold – Netsafe NZ

    Silver – Ceres New Zealand LLC

    Bronze – Content & Co NZ Ltd

     

    Medium Business Award

    Gold – ORIX NZ

    Silver – SBS Bank

    Bronze – StraitNZ

     

    Large Business Award

    Gold – ASB

    Silver – Foodstuffs North Island / NZ

    Bronze – Douglas

     

    New Horizon Award

    Gold – Waikato-Tainui

    Silver – Te Wānanga o Aotearoa – Tau Ora

    Bronze – Eliot Sinclair

     

    For more information on the 2025 Southern Cross Health Insurance Wayfinder Awards: https://www.southerncross.co.nz/society/business/wayfinder-awards

     

    For a copy of the Healthy Futures Report: https://www.southerncross.co.nz/society/business/healthy-futures

     

    *Bronze was not awarded for this category in 2025

     

    About Southern Cross Health Insurance

    Southern Cross Health Insurance has been supporting New Zealanders on their health journeys since 1961. Today, we provide cover for nearly one in five New Zealanders every year.

    As a Friendly Society, Southern Cross Health Insurance operates solely for the benefit of members, rather than shareholders or overseas owners.

     

    We pay more claims than any other New Zealand health insurer and are proud of our industry-leading rate of return[1]. In FY24 we returned $1.498 billion in claims from $1.605 billion received in premiums, representing more than 93 per cent of premiums returned to members by way of claims.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Protest against Winston Peters’ policy of appeasement towards genocidal Israel – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    Palestine Solidarity supporters will protest New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ “the real state of the nation” public meeting in Ōtautahi/Christchurch this Sunday from 1pm at the Christchurch Town Hall (the NZ First meeting for Peters begins at 2pm)

    While New Zealanders call for sanctions on Israel for genocide, Mr Peters continues to look the other way.

    As we said in a media release yesterday Mr Peters has repeatedly failed to:

    ·         Express any concern for the Palestinians killed by Israel since Israel ended the ceasefire (at least 436 killed – including 183 children as well as nearly 200 during the ‘ceasefire’)

    ·         Condemn Israel for this industrial-scale carnage, which the International Court of Justice found more than a year ago to be a case of ‘plausible genocide’.

    ·         Condemn Israel for ending the ceasefire (It was Israel alone which refused to begin negotiations on stage two of the ceasefire agreement which was to lead to a permanent Israeli ceasefire and withdrawal from all of Gaza)

    ·         Condemn Israel for its blockade on food, water, fuel, electricity, and medical supplies getting into Gaza – a war crime by any measure of humanity.

    “Mr Peters talks about the ‘incomprehensible human suffering over the past year and half’ but there is no mystery about this suffering” John Minto says.

    “It stems from a brutal miliary occupation declared illegal last year by the International Court of Justice.”

    “Mr. Peters pretends this is a conflict between two equal sides.  But there is no balance when one side is carrying out mass slaughter and the other is fighting for survival.”

    Mr Peters seems to think he is being clever in not condemning Israel as a way of avoiding offending the US but New Zealanders want and expect more from our government. We want principled action which will gain the respect of countries the world over rather than cowardly appeasement.

    The protest will be calling on the government to “Sanction Israel for Genocide!”

    John Minto
    Co National Chair
    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children – Young ocean champions off to France for Global Summit

    Source: Save the Children

    Six young Kiwi ocean advocates, alongside representatives from WWF-New Zealand and Save the Children New Zealand, will travel to France this week to attend a global Ocean Citizen Summit aimed at exploring solutions to better protect our ocean and accelerate youth-led ocean action.
    The global forum, hosted at Nausicaá, Centre National de la Mer in Boulogne sur Mer, France, brings together more than 60 youth representatives from around the world to share the insights and solutions from their regions.
    Together, with senior experts in marine science and advocacy, they will identify individual and collective responses to five key challenges of the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development: changing humanity’s relationship with the ocean; unlocking ocean-based solutions to climate change, protecting and restoring marine ecosystems and biodiversity, developing a sustainable and equitable ocean economy and understanding and beating marine pollution from source to sea.
    The world’s oceans and seas are critical to our planet’s health, covering 71% of the Earth’s surface, producing 50% of our oxygen, feeding over 3 billion people, and absorbing 1/3 of global CO2 emissions. However, they face severe threats from climate change, pollution, overfishing, and ocean acidification. The Ocean Citizen Summit aims to empower young people to address these pressing challenges at both local and global levels.
    “Young people have the most to lose from climate and ocean degradation, as they will experience the long-term consequences,” says Save the Children Advocacy Director Jacqui Southey.
    “That’s why youth voices are crucial in these global conversations, particularly Pacific youth who are experiencing the impact of the world’s changing climate first hand. Here in Aotearoa, our marine environment is an important part of our lives and national and cultural identities, but sadly it is facing many threats, with unsustainable fishing, plastic pollution and climate change pushing our marine species and habitats to the brink of extinction.”
    WWF-New Zealand’s CEO Dr Kayla Kingdon-Bebb says the global summit is an amazing opportunity for the New Zealand group to meet other ocean youth champions from around the world.
    “I’m so proud that our rangatahi will be representing us on the world stage in France. This is a chance for these talented ocean conservation advocates to discuss global ocean conservation issues, share a Pacific perspective, and help shape the United Nations’ Ocean Citizen Charter.”
    The six youth advocates were selected following a series of ocean workshops held by WWF-New Zealand and Save the Children New Zealand in late 2024.
    Alongside Save the Children Youth Engagement Coordinator Vira Paky and WWF New Zealand’s Conservation Impact Advisor Carolyn Aguilar, the six youth delegates are:
    Quack Pirihi (Ngāpuhi, Ngāti Wai, Ngāti Whātua ki Kaipara, Patuharakeke) is a takatāpui activist, storyteller, and community organiser from Aotearoa, working at the intersection of indigenous sovereignty, climate justice, and queer liberation. Their mahi centres on rangatahi takatāpui empowerment, kaupapa Māori, and resisting environmental destruction. As the Founder and Director of Mana Āniwaniwa, Quack uplifts takatāpui and rangatahi Māori voices in decolonial and climate movements. A staunch opponent of deep-sea mining, Quack has spoken internationally, advocating for moana as an extension of whakapapa. In 2023, they joined the Pacific delegation to the International Seabed Authority conference, challenging corporate and colonial interests. Through storytelling and activism, Quack amplifies indigenous resistance to extractivism, pushing for solutions grounded in mātauranga Māori and a future where whenua, moana, and tangata thrive.
    Lottie Stevenson was born in Westport/Kawatiri on the West Coast of Te Waipounamu, and has lived close to the ocean her whole life. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Geography, studying at universities in Wellington/Te Whanganui-a-Tara and The Netherlands. Her recently completed Master’s thesis examines Antarctic paleoclimate and glaciology, including a chapter advocating for decolonising Antarctic research. She aims to foster collaboration across borders, ultimately driving collective action for Papatūānuku (Earth Mother). Lottie largely splits her time between mountains and sea, being an avid tramper, beach-cleaner, and aspiring environmental activist.
    Kat Cooper’s background is in marine biology and geography with a special interest in sharks, the deep sea, and queer ecology. Having just submitted their Master’s in marine biology they spend their time baking, annoying their flatmates, and volunteering. Love of the ocean began for Kat with their dad in the big blue backyard of Tāmaki Makaurau, with summers spent camping by the beach or snorkelling. To Kat, the way forward for ocean conservation is taking a holistic view of ocean ecosystems that acknowledges the place of people within the ecosystem, and emphasises the importance of indigenous knowledge. The Citizens of the Ocean Summit is Kat’s first international event, and they’re excited to explore the varied perspectives of the other delegates, and work together to create change.
    Maia Horn Nō hea Whāngārā Mai Tawhiti ahau. Spending my childhood summers in Whāngārā fostered my deep love and connection to the ocean and there has never been any doubt in my mind about the career I have dreamt of. Growing up with the tale of the Whale rider, Paikea also meant that I aspire to study tohorā as they are not only ecologically significant, but also culturally significant to Māori.
    Wei Heng Pok (卜炜衡) is a Climate & Sustainability consultant based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) at Edge Impact. An advocate for indigenous solidarity, climate policy, and justice, Pok has contributed to prominent forums such as the Nobel Prize Dialogue, the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos, COP26, and TIME Magazine. Outside of work, he serves on the Strategic Council of Climate Catalyst and was a former Climate Justice Design Partner for the World Economic Forum. Constantly unlearning and unlearning, he hopes to find his way home as he works on decolonising his identity. His most recent projects are building on regenerative soil practice within community-supported agriculture, alongside tracing his genealogy back to China.
    Veronica Rotman is a marine scientist, tertiary lecturer, science communicator and doctoral student. Her entire life revolves around the ocean, for work, for play and for kaimoana gathering, having grown up freediving and spearfishing in the frosty water of Te Waipounamu. Veronica is a TEDx speaker, has delivered many public talks and university lectures, and sat on the Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge Stakeholder Panel for five years. Her proudest mahi has been setting up and delivering the first remote tertiary training in sustainable aquaculture and marine science to Mana Whenua of the Muriwhenua in Kaitaia. The purpose of this was to empower students with knowledge and skills to get jobs and set up their own ventures. Veronica is in the final year of her PhD titled: Ki uta ki tai (mountains to sea): microplastics in Southern Aotearoa, that hopes to highlight the interconnectedness of terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments and to promote mountains to sea management. Her previous research looked into the physiological impacts of microplastics on snapper, incidence of microplastics in wild fish, and microplastics in aquaculture systems.
    The Citizen of the Ocean Youth-led Summit is being held March 25-28 2025. It aligns youth advocacy with global agreements like the Paris Agreement, the UN Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development and the European Union’s Mission “Restore our Ocean and Waters” 
    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: Fire Safety – Outdoor fire restrictions lifted for West Coast after rain

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    Fire and Emergency New Zealand has placed the Grey and Buller Inland areas on the West Coast back in an open fire season, from 9am on Friday 21 March until further notice.
    This means people no longer need to apply for permits from Fire and Emergency to light fires in the open air.
    West Coast District Manager Myles Taylor says these areas were the last remaining parts of the West Coast to have fire restrictions in place.
    “With recent rainfall and cooler temperatures lowering the fire danger, the Grey and Buller Inland zones will join the rest of the West Coast in an open fire season,” he says.
    “However, Department of Conservation land – which is a large proportion of the West Coast District – remains in a restricted fire season.
    “We would like to thank people on the West Coast for respecting the fire restrictions and taking extra care during the dry summer period.
    “We also remind everyone to continue taking care when lighting fires and to visit checkitsalright.nz for advice and conditions for your particular location.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal rights advocates call for rodeo ban at national finals – SAFE

    Source: SAFE For Animals

    With this season’s death toll standing at five, animal rights advocates are gathering tomorrow at the national rodeo finals in Kihikihi, Waikato, calling for a ban on rodeo events.
    Coordinated by SAFE, Saturday’s peaceful protest will highlight the need for urgent Government action to bring an end to the abuse of animals in rodeo.
    SAFE Campaign Manager Emily Hall says rodeo holds no place in a society that values compassion for animals, with this season’s death toll illustrating the cruelty inherent in the industry.
    “Five animals have died this rodeo season. It is simply unacceptable for animals to be suffering and dying for entertainment.”
    “Our message at tomorrow’s protest couldn’t be clearer – this barbaric form of entertainment must no longer be permitted in New Zealand.”
    Footage released on Monday from last weekend’s Waimarino rodeo reveals the moment a bull breaks his leg before becoming the season’s fifth fatality. Additional footage captured during the calf roping event at Waimarino shows a catastrophic situation involving a horse and calf both highly distressed, writhing on the ground, desperately trying to free themselves from ropes.
    “If animals were lassoed and slammed to the ground elsewhere there would be serious repercussions; why should it be any different in the rodeo arena?”
    Rodeo has long been condemned by veterinarians and animal welfare agencies both here and internationally, and SAFE says urgent action is required to bring industry practices into line with New Zealand’s animal welfare legislation.
    “Our Animal Welfare Act states that any physical handling of animals must be done in a way that minimises the likelihood of unnecessary pain or distress, so why is rodeo getting a free pass?”
    The National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) produced a revised rodeo code of welfare two years ago, however the Government has failed to take any further action. SAFE says that, as a result, New Zealand’s animal welfare laws remain disconnected from the brutal reality of rodeo practices.
    “These delays are costing animals their lives,” says Hall.
    “At the finals tomorrow, we will be sending a clear message to the Government that Kiwis want to see events that promote animal cruelty banned.”
    SAFE’s protest begins at 10.30am on Saturday 22 March at the Kihikihi Domain, Waikato.
    SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
    We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
    Notes: Information on the five 2024/25 rodeo season deaths;
    • A horse was rendered lame following the Taupō rodeo on 29 December who was killed the following day.
    • The second death on December 30 occurred at the Te Anau rodeo, where a three-year-old bull’s hind leg was dislocated during the bull riding event. He was killed on-site.
    • A steer died prior to the Oruru Valley event on 3 January after being transported from the Warkworth and Far North events.
    • The fourth fatality occurred at the Mad Bull rodeo in Otago on 2 February where a bull died after being ridden the previous day.
    • The fifth death occurred at the Waimarino rodeo near Raetihi where a bull was killed after suffering a broken hind leg.
    • In July 2022, SAFE and the New Zealand Animal Law Association (NZALA) jointly contested rodeo in the High Court. The court ruled that the National Animal Welfare Advisory Committee (NAWAC) must determine appropriate animal welfare guidelines. However, neither NAWAC nor Andrew Hoggard have provided a justification for the significant delay on the revised rodeo code of welfare.
    • Visit SAFE’s website to learn more about our campaign and view our submission form calling on NAWAC and the Animal Welfare Minister to release the draft rodeo code for public consultation. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Flood prevention works on Great North Rd, Warkworth, to start this month

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) and Auckland Transport (AT) advise work to replace the existing broken culvert and other upgrades to alleviate flood risk on Great North Road in Warkworth will get underway later this month.

    From Monday 31 March to Friday 11 April, the road will be closed 24/7 between the Hill Street and Hudson Road intersections.

    Work will take place between 7.30am and 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Some overnight work may be required and will be communicated to nearby residents in advance, with contractors working hard to minimise noise and disruption as much as possible.

    Northbound traffic will be detoured via Matakana Road and Te Honohono Ki Tai Road. Southbound traffic will take the same detour, in reverse. The detour route is expected to add approximate 4 minutes to people’s journeys.

    Please be patient and treat our crews with kindness and respect. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the traffic management directions at our work sites. 

    The 995, 998, and 999 bus will be detoured via Hudson Road during the closure. The park-and-ride will remain open with a temporary bus stop inside.

    This work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather.

    Access for emergency services and local residents will be maintained throughout the closure. 

    This project is part of works to return the old State Highway 1 to AT following the opening of the Ara Tūhono – Pūhoi to Warkworth motorway.

    People should visit the NZTA Journey Planner website (journeys.nzta.govt.nz(external link)) for up-to-date information on the works.

    NZTA and AT thank everyone for their patience while this important work is completed.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt’s continued lack of action on Gaza condemned

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Hundreds more Palestinians have died in recent days as Israel’s assault on Gaza continues and humanitarian aid, including food and medicine, is blocked.

    “How many more people, how many more children must die before the New Zealand Government acts rather than talks?” Labour foreign affairs spokesperson David Parker said.

    “Beyond words, Christopher Luxon’s Government has taken no action. It is just about a year since the Minister of Foreign Affairs said it was a question of ‘when, not if’ New Zealand would recognise Palestine. Neither that nor any other substantial response has ensued.

    “Labour has been calling for stronger action from the Government on Israel’s invasion of Gaza, including intervening in South Africa’s case against Israel in the International Court of Justice, and the creation of a special visa for family members of New Zealanders fleeing Gaza. We have also called for an end to all government procurement from companies operating in the Occupied Territories, and for sanctioning individuals acting in breach of international law.

    “New Zealand has long supported the UN view that Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem is illegal. Back in 2016 the then-National Government co-sponsored a successful Security Council resolution that Israel’s settlements in the Occupied Territories were illegal. This makes the inaction by the current National Government even harder to understand.

    “The inconsistent application of international law undermines compliance with it. It is time this National-led Government to some positive action beyond mere words to stand up for what is right,” David Parker said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Slip repairs 98% complete on north rural roads

    Source: Auckland Council

    Two years on from the devastating Auckland Anniversary Weekend floods and Cyclone Gabrielle, Auckland Transport (AT)’s flood recovery team has now repaired 98 per cent of the slips that occurred on local roads in the ‘north rural’ area.

    Across the Auckland region, more than 2000 slips on local roads were reported to AT after the weather events. This included 1200 smaller slips which were fixed fairly quickly. But more than 800 bigger slips required extensive investigation to inform sustainable and resilient engineering designs before any construction repair works could begin.

    In the north rural area 323 of these complex slips needed repairing:

    • 256 minor (less than $250,000 to repair)
    • 67 major (more than $250,000 to repair).

    By the end of February 2025, all minor slips and 62 major slips in the area had been repaired with two under construction and three more to go.

    “It’s been a massive job, and we thank the people of Rodney for their continued patience, especially those communities dealing with long road closures,” said Alan Wallace, GM Road Asset Maintenance and Renewals at AT.

    “A number of roads like Ahuroa Road, Krippner Road and Matakana Valley Road slipped in multiple places and required some pretty complex engineering solutions before construction could even begin. Then when our contractors did get on site they were often in tricky terrain and working in variable weather conditions.”

    Mr Wallace says the north rural flood recovery programme is ahead of schedule and he’s confident the remaining slips will be repaired by mid-2025.

    The three remaining north rural slip sites are:

    • Pinchgut Road, Kaukapakapa (two sites)
    • Dairy Flat Road, Dairy Flat (one site).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ACT welcomes investigation of banking cabal

    Source: ACT Party

    Welcoming news that the Commerce Commission is launching an investigation into the influence of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance on New Zealand’s banking sector, ACT Rural Communities spokesperson Mark Cameron says:

    “The banking alliance is a woke cabal. It co-ordinates banks into aligning lending practices with net-zero emissions goals, and this affects local lending practices, especially in the rural sector.

    “I’ve been banging on about this for a while now through the rural banking inquiry, and it’s a concern regularly raised with me by farmers. Kiwi farmers are some of the most emissions-efficient in the world, and it makes no environmental sense for banks to kneecap them and send food production offshore.

    “Of course it’s tempting to just whack the international cabal, but we need to keep our own house in order too. Red tape here at home is also pushing banks to impose higher costs on rural borrowers. That includes the Financial Markets Authority’s climate reporting rules, and the Reserve Bank’s banking capital requirements.

    “ACT will keep kicking the tyres until cockies have affordable access to the financial services they need.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 Oakleigh overnight road rebuild works to begin next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) contractors will begin rebuilding a section of State Highway 1 at Oakleigh next week.

    From Tuesday 25 March to Tuesday 1 April, the road will be down to one lane between Mangapai Road and Totara Road, with stop/go traffic management and a 30km/h temporary speed limit in place for the duration to accommodate the asphalt rebuild works.

    Work will be undertaken overnight between 9pm and 5am, Sunday to Thursday. There will be no works on Friday and Saturday nights. Travel delays are expected to be 5-10 minutes.

    Contractors will then return from Wednesday 9 April to Thursday 1 May to complete the work. Work will again take place between 9pm and 5am Sunday to Thursday, and there will be stop/go traffic management and a 30km/h temporary speed limit for the duration.

    On Sunday 13 April there will be a full closure in place overnight. Southbound traffic will be detoured via Mangapai Road, Paparoa Oakleigh Road, SH12 Maungaturoto to SH1 Brynderwyn. Northbound traffic will take the same route, in reverse (see map below and attached).  The detour is expected to add 25 minutes to people’s journeys. People are asked to plan ahead and allow additional time.

    Work will stop for Easter weekend and ANZAC Day.

    Access for residents and emergency services will be maintained throughout the works. There will be increased noise for residents in the area.

    Please be patient and treat our crews with kindness and respect. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

    Rebuilding the road, which often involves replacing all or most of the structural road layers, improves the longevity of the network and ultimately the safety and efficiency for all road users.

    This summer maintenance period (September 2024 to May 2025), we’re investing in the largest road rebuild programme ever for the region, with Northland one of three regions across Aotearoa with the most significant road rebuild programmes over the next three years. 

    This work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website for up-to-date information on these works, including any changes due to weather.

    Journey planner(external link)

    For more information about the overall maintenance programme and planned works, visit the Northland State Highway Maintenance Programme website:

    Northland roadworks(external link)

    You can now sign up to receive email updates on upcoming road maintenance:

    NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out this essential maintenance to improve the safety and efficiency of Northland’s state highway network.

    SH1 Oakleigh road rebuild closure detour map [PDF, 1.3 MB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police appeal for vehicle sightings in relation to Operation Sove

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detective Inspector Haley Ryan, Hutt Valley Police:

    Police investigating the murder of Ian David Moller and the arsons at his property are releasing images of a vehicle believed to be involved, as we continue to appeal for information from the Stokes Valley community.

    Since the launch of the homicide investigation in November 2024, four people have been arrested and charged in relation to the incident. However, Police would still like to hear from anyone with information that may be of interest to us.

    Police have identified and subsequently located a silver Mazda Atenza, registration LKA609, and are speaking with the current owners of the vehicle who are assisting in our investigation.

    The vehicle, captured on CCTV footage, travelled on Stokes Valley Road and George Street between 1.40am and 3am on Tuesday 5 November 2024.

    Police urge those who have seen this Mazda Atenza within Stokes Valley in recent times to come forward and speak with us, as we would like to identify those who have recent known links to this vehicle.

    Although several months have passed since the last arson, resulting in Mr Moller’s murder, Police are also appealing to the Stokes Valley community to review their CCTV or dashcam footage from the early hours of Thursday 10, Monday 14, and Saturday 19 October, alongside Tuesday 5 November 2024.

    Police encourage anyone who may have information, CCTV or dashcam footage of this vehicle or its occupants to please get in touch with us.

    The investigation team are working diligently on these incidents, and we are yet to contact a number of people within the community who we believe know details of the three arsons and Mr Moller’s murder, including why these offences were committed and who is involved.

    We ask them, and anyone else with information, to come forward and speak with us before we knock on their door.

    The four people charged in relation to this incident have been remanded in custody and have court-imposed name suppression. They are due to reappear in the High Court at Wellington on Friday 4 April.

    If you have information that could help Police’s investigation, please contact us at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    Please use the reference number 241105/2249 and quote Operation Sove.

    You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – EMA welcomes increase in health and safety inspectors

    Source: EMA

    WorkSafe New Zealand’s initiative to recruit up to 60 new health and safety inspectors in 2025 is a positive step towards addressing our alarming rates of workplace harm, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
    “New Zealand’s workplace fatality rate is notably higher than that of comparable countries,” says EMA Manager of Employment Relations and Safety Paul Jarvie.
    “The investment of an additional $2.7 million annually into growing the inspectorate will help to address this disparity.
    “We look forward to a new set of inspectors who will play a crucial role in fulfilling the responsibilities of a modern regulator.
    “The addition of these inspectors brings New Zealand closer to meeting the International Labour Organisation’s recommended safety inspector-to-worker ratio, an area where we have lagged behind many of our international peers.
    “We hope these new inspectors will focus on educating businesses and workers to better manage health and safety risks, rather than taking a prosecutorial approach.
    “By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration, we can collectively enhance the quality of workplaces in New Zealand.”
    The EMA remains committed to supporting WorkSafe’s efforts and looks forward to the positive impact these new inspectors will have on workplace safety across the nation.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – The Australian & New Zealand Fragility Fracture Registry (ANZFFR) has released its second annual report

    Source: Australian & New Zealand Fragility Fracture Registry

    Annual Report 2025

    Summary

    • Over 20,000 New Zealanders suffer a fragility fracture – that is, a fracture after a low-impact injury such as a fall – every year, and this is predicted to rise rapidly as the population ages.
    • People with fragility fractures and other fall injuries spent over 300,000 bed-days in hospital, equivalent to all of Christchurch Hospital being fully occupied for the entire year.
    • Fragility fractures are preventable with medical treatment and/or strength and balance training.
    • Effective intervention reduces fracture risk by 30-40%, potentially saving over 8,000 people a year from the pain and disability of a fragility fracture.
    • ANZFFR is a nationwide quality improvement programme targeting people who have a fragility fracture with the aim of preventing any further fractures – “Make the first fracture the last”.
    • ANZFFR works with Fracture Liaison Services (FLS) nationwide to deliver effective fracture prevention advice and recommendations on medical treatment.
    • The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) funds ANZFFR and most FLS as part of its Injury Prevention programme
    • Thanks to ACC support, FLS now covers 98% of the NZ population and ANZFFR has grown faster than almost any other fracture registry worldwide.
    • By contrast, the Australian arm of ANZFFR, which started at the same time but has no equivalent of ACC funding, is reaching less than 5% of their population.
    • This year’s report has the first, tentative evidence that the FLS/ANZFFR project is beginning to reduce fracture rates in people taking part.
    • It is still early days, but ANZFFR is seen as a success story by international experts.

    The ultimate goal of the ANZFFR is to use data to improve health system performance and maximise outcomes for people with fragility fractures by improving secondary fracture prevention, reducing rates of further fragility fractures and their associated morbidity and mortality. This will be achieved by:
    • Evaluating performance against the Clinical Standards for Fracture Liaison Services in New Zealand, published in December 2021, www.osteoporosis.org.nz.
    • Preventing future fragility fractures by monitoring secondary prevention interventions.
    • Standardising care across Australia and New Zealand by addressing barriers to the use of the best available evidence.
    • Providing publicly available information so that patients can be reassured they receive the standard of care they need after a fragility fracture.
    • Providing data for research questions or projects, nationally and internationally, as required.

    The 2025 report describes the work of FLS nationwide in providing expert fracture prevention advice to over 15,000 people who had a fracture between 1st July 2023 and 30th June 2024 then were followed up 16 weeks after their fracture. It also reports outcomes after one year for the 11,600 people recruited into the Registry in the year before.

    In its second year, the Registry in New Zealand has reached more people and helped FLS to deliver more fracture prevention advice than in Year 1. Without ACC support and dedicated leadership from Osteoporosis New Zealand, this would not be happening.
    I hope that you will find this an interesting and rewarding health “success story” for your audience. Please feel free to contact me if you would like any further information.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Declare your city genocide free’ – lessons from NZ’s nuclear-free movement

    COMMENTARY: By Eugene Doyle

    Today I attended a demonstration outside both Aotearoa New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the Israeli Embassy in Wellington.

    The day before, the Israelis had blown apart 174 children in Gaza in a surprise attack that announced the next phase of the genocide.

    About 174 Wellingtonians turned up to a quickly-called protest: they are the best of us — the best of Wellington.

    In 2023, the City made me an Absolutely Positively Wellingtonian for service across a number of fronts (water infrastructure, conservation, coastal resilience, community organising) but nothing I have done compares with the importance of standing up for the victims of US-Israeli violence.

    What more can we do?  And then it crossed my mind: “Declare Wellington Genocide Free”.  And if Wellington could, why not other cities?

    Wellington started nuclear-free drive
     The nuclear-free campaign, led by Wellington back in the 1980s, is a template worth reviving.

    Wellington became the first city in New Zealand — and the first capital in the world — to declare itself nuclear free in 1982.  It followed the excellent example of Missoula, Montana, USA, the first city in the world to do so, in 1978.

    These were tumultuous times. I vividly remember heading into Wellington harbour on a small yacht, part of a peace flotilla made up of kayakers, yachties and wind surfers that tried to stop the USS Texas from berthing. It won that battle that day but we won the war.

    This was the decade which saw the French government’s terrorist bomb attack on a Greenpeace ship in Auckland harbour to intimidate the anti-nuclear movement.

    Also, 2025 is the 40th anniversary of the sinking of the Rainbow Warrior and the death of Fernando Pereira. Little Island Press will be reissuing a new edition of my friend David Robie’s book Eyes of Fire later this year. It tells the incredible story of the final voyage of the Rainbow Warrior.

    “Eyes of Fire: the Last Voyage of the Rainbow Warrior” . . . a new book on nuclear-free activism on its way. Image: Little Island Press

    Standing up to bullies
     Labour under David Lange successfully campaigned and won the 1984 elections on a nuclear-free platform which promised to ban nuclear ships from our waters.

    This was a time when we had a government that had the backbone to act independently of the US. Yes, we had a grumpy relationship with the Yanks for a while and we were booted out of ANZUS — surely a cause for celebration in contrast to today when our government is little more than a finger puppet for Team Genocide.

    In response to bullying from Australia and the US, David Lange said at the time:  “It is the price we are prepared to pay.”

    With Wellington in the lead, nuclear-free had moved over the course of a decade from a fringe peace movement to the mainstream and eventually to become government policy.

    The New Zealand Nuclear Free Zone, Disarmament, and Arms Control Act 1987 was passed and remains a cornerstone of our foreign policy.

    New Zealand took a stand that showed strong opposition to out-of-control militarism, the risks of nuclear war, and strong support for the international movement to step back from nuclear weapons.

    It was a powerful statement of our independence as a nation and a rejection of foreign dominance. It also reduced the risk of contamination in case of a nuclear accident aboard a vessel (remember this was the same decade as the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in Ukraine).

    The nuclear-free campaign and Palestine
     Each of those points have similarities with the Palestinian cause today and should act as inspiration for cities to mobilise and build national solidarity with the Palestinians.

    To my knowledge, no city has ever successfully expelled an Israeli Embassy but Wellington could take a powerful first step by doing this, and declare the capital genocide-free.  We need to wake our country — and the Western world — out of the moral torpor it finds itself in; yawning its way through the monstrous crimes being perpetrated by our “friends and allies”.

    Shun Israel until it stops genocide
     No city should suffer the moral stain of hosting an embassy representing the racist, genocidal state of Israel.

    Wellington should lead the country to support South Africa’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), end all trade with Israel, and end all intelligence and military cooperation with Israel for the duration of its genocidal onslaught.  Other cities should follow suit.

    Declare your city Nuclear and Genocide Free.

    Eugene Doyle is a writer based in Wellington. He has written extensively on the Middle East, as well as peace and security issues in the Asia Pacific region. He hosts the public policy platform solidarity.co.nz and is a frequent contributor to Asia Pacific Report.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wellington Queer Community to hold Hīkoi to Defend Trans Teens’ Access to Puberty Blockers

    Source: Queer Endurance

    Queer community organisations and protest groups intend to hold a Hīkoi from Waitangi Park to Parliament Lawn on Sunday, 23 March. The march is to be part of the annual Wellington Pride Festival, and is organised by a coalition of groups including several high school Queer Students’ Associations, Queer Endurance in Defiance, Pōneke Anti-Fascist Coalition, Wellington Pride Festival, Wellington Pride Parade, and the International Bolshevik Tendency.

    Queer Endurance in Defiance press spokesperson Wyatt Dawson said marchers demanded “puberty blockers and hormones on demand.”

    Many of the same medications are more easily available to cisgender minors in need of gender affirming care, such as for early-onset puberty or conditions affecting hormonal regulation. Dawson says this exposes the reason behind the restrictions as “political, not about kids’ health.”

    “Our current government has been further restricting access our rangatahi have to puberty blockers, ignoring their bodily autonomy and the pleas of our trans community. This is life changing and life saving medical treatment for our youth, and these restrictions—made based on ideology not medical evidence—are tantamount to banning puberty blockers outright.”

    The Hīkoi is intended to pressure the Government and Ministry of Health to reverse moves towards restrictions, and guarantee access to puberty blockers and hormones. While framed as improving service quality, the suggested changes impose such a high standard of expert review that medical professionals and activists worry they will effectively make prescriptions impossible. The restrictions were inspired by the much-criticised Cass Review of transgender healthcare in the UK, and have been described as unnecessary by the Professional Association for Transgender Health Aotearoa.

    Protesters are set to assemble at 10am at Waitangi Park, before marching through the city to the Parliament steps, where organisers have arranged for performances, and speeches by high schoolers, protestors, and politicians who agree with their demand. A bus will be provided for some of the protestors unable to make the walk.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: GDP increases 0.7 percent in the December 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: Gross domestic product: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    GDP increases 0.7 percent in the December 2024 quarter – 20 March 2025 – New Zealand’s gross domestic product (GDP) rose 0.7 percent in the December 2024 quarter, following a 1.1 percent decrease in the September 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    Eleven of the 16 industries increased this quarter. The largest rises were from rental, hiring, and real estate services; retail trade and accommodation; and healthcare and social assistance.

    “Higher spending by international visitors led to increased activity in tourism-related industries such as accommodation, restaurants and bars, transport, and vehicle hiring,” economic growth spokesperson Katrina Dewbery said.

    The largest falls were in construction, and information media and telecommunications.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Three arrested over complaints at Manukau supermarket

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have made three arrests over complaints about alleged behaviour of some external security contractors at Pak N Save Manukau.

    These complaints included allegations of demands being made to customers.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Kevin Tiernan, Counties Manukau Central CIB, says five victims filed complaints with Police.

    “Enquiries have been carried out since the first report was made to Police in late January, culminating in the arrests being made today,” he says.

    Two men aged 23 and 39, and a 19-year-old woman will appear in the Manukau District Court on 26 March.

    “All three charge face a variety of charges including demands with intent and obtains by deception,” Detective Senior Sergeant Tiernan says.

    “A charge of demands with intent carries a maximum penalty of seven years imprisonment under the Crimes Act.”

    Detective Senior Sergeant Tiernan acknowledges the victims that came forward to assist the Police investigation.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Search for missing woman Penelope

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Dunedin Police have conducted a number of searches in Dunedin and the Otago Peninsula area for 65-year-old Penelope, known as Penny, who was last seen on 1 March.

    At this stage, no new search areas have been identified, and the active search has been paused while a review and evaluation of the search is conducted.

    Police have been in contact with Penny’s family and continue to update them and provide them with support.

    Although the search has been paused, we remain poised to reactivate the search in any areas of interest as they are identified or if any fresh information or credible sightings of Penny are reported.

    If you have seen Penny, or have any information on her whereabouts and have yet to contact us, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    Please use the reference number 250304/9428.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release – Homicide, Whangārei

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are now in a position to release the name of the man who died following a homicide in Whangārei on 15 March.

    He was Toby Mike Adams, 62, of Whangārei.

    We extend our sympathies to his family and friends at this challenging time.

    The 53-year-old man charged with Mr Adam’s murder has been remanded in custody and will appear in Whangārei High Court on 4 April.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Strong interest in modernising biosecurity law

    Source: New Zealand Government

    There is wide public support for the Government’s work to strengthen New Zealand’s biosecurity protections, says Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard.  
    “The Ministry for Primary Industries recently completed public consultation on proposed amendments to the Biosecurity Act and the submissions show that people understand the importance of having a strong biosecurity system and improving it.
    “It is vital this legislation is fit for purpose to manage increasing pressures from trade, travel, online purchasing, and climate change.”
    Proposed amendments include higher fines for passengers bringing in undeclared high-risk goods, greater flexibility around importing requirements, and fairer cost-sharing for biosecurity responses.
    The consultation, which ran from 19 September to 13 December, attracted 137 submissions.
    “I am very pleased with the level of engagement. The submissions were high quality and showed broad support for modernising the Act.” 
    “There was particularly strong support for introducing new infringement offences, including additional penalties for travellers carrying high-risk goods.
    “I acknowledge there was less support for some of the proposals, including greater cost-sharing with industry for biosecurity responses and changes to compensation eligibility.
    “The need for further engagement with Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners, iwi and Treaty partners, regional councils, importers, aviation and maritime sector bodies, and other interest groups to refine policy recommendations was received loud and clear.”
    Following further consultation with submitters to refine the proposals, the Ministry for Primary Industries expects to provide final policy recommendations later this year.
    A report summarising the submissions is available on the MPI website here Proposed amendments to the Biosecurity Act | NZ Government
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Approval process for new Managed Apprenticeships released

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

    Last updated 4 November 2020
    Last updated 4 November 2020

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    The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) has released the approval process for new Managed Apprenticeships.
    The Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) has released the approval process for new Managed Apprenticeships.

    Update: Following the Reform of Vocational Education (RoVE), changes have been made to apprenticeships. For current information see New Zealand Apprenticeships.

    The new process was put in place after the Ministry of Education revised the definition of Managed Apprenticeships in June 2020 including new criteria. The 13 criteria are detailed in the application form, which can be found on the Student Achievement Component level 3 and above (SAC3+) Fund Finder page on the TEC’s website.
    The criteria include the requirement that learners must be in employment for the duration of their training and there must be a tripartite training agreement that governs the relationship between the TEO, the learner and their employer. Managed Apprenticeships must also provide an entry point into an occupation for learners.
    While apprenticeships are being supported and promoted through a number of initiatives, the Tertiary Education Commission (TEC) does not want providers to increase the number of Managed Apprenticeships they are delivering in 2020 and planned for 2021, beyond the number they have already committed to.
    Providers have advised TEC of the expected number of Managed Apprenticeships that will be delivered during 2020. We expect this number will not be exceeded in 2021. Delivering beyond these volumes is subject to performance consequences. If your organisation thinks you will deliver beyond these volumes in the future, we encourage you to discuss this delivery with your Relationship Manager or Advisor to avoid being penalised later on.
    Transition period
    “We are currently in a transition period due to the Reform of Vocational Education (RoVE),” says TEC chief executive Tim Fowler. “We are actively working with transitional Industry Training Organisations (ITOs) and providers, on a successful transition to the new structure for industry, employers and learners,” he adds.
    During this time, Mr Fowler says it is important to maintain current arrangements, without dramatic change, while new delivery approaches and funding is implemented.
    Two RoVE projects in particular will have impacts on future Managed Apprenticeships funding arrangements. These are the Unified Funding System (UFS) and the transitional ITO transition project.  These projects are at the start of their operational design and the TEC will inform relevant TEOs of changes as they are made.  Changes to future Managed Apprenticeships funding arrangements might include different funding rates for Managed Apprenticeships, as well as changes to data collection and reporting requirements. 
    For any questions please contact us on 0800 601 301 or email customer service. 
    Find out more at the following links:  
    SAC3+ Fund Finder page
    Performance consequences  
    Unified Funding System
    Transitional ITO projects

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: National standards returning by stealth

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    It’s been revealed that the Government is secretly trying to bring back a ‘one-size fits all’ standardised test – a decision that has shocked school principals.

    “It looks like Erica Stanford is trying to bring back a method of testing that has failed students before,” Labour education spokesperson Willow-Jean Prime said.

    “This sort of under the table decision-making without thorough consultation with schools is concerning. Quietly expanding it to Year 9s and 10s also raises the question – what evidence is she basing these decisions on?

    “I also share the Principals Federation President’s concern that an offshore provider may not meet the needs of our curriculum and children.

    “Having our tamariki undergo standardised testing from a young age only fuels anxiety and stress for students and parents. It pits students against each other and only reinforces in children who don’t have the same out-of-school support that they’re not clever, or are behind other students.

    “This comes as the Government also proposes to cut resource teachers in literacy and Māori and has made a major botch-up of a school lunch programme. I urge the Minister not to pile on further pressure or reinforce negative beliefs in students who are already struggling.

    “Any new testing must be transparent; schools should be consulted, and the failed experiment of national standards should remain in the past,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

    Stay in the loop by signing up to our mailing list and following us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: EIT Tairāwhiti Valedictorian honours community behind her success | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    3 minutes ago

    EIT Tairāwhiti’s 2025 Valedictorian, Heather Glover (Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti), never expected to be in the spotlight.

    The 30-year-old recently completed her Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) and is now eight weeks into her teaching career at Mangapapa School.

    Despite preferring to stay behind the scenes, she is embracing this moment of recognition.

    “It’s truly an honour, and I am incredibly grateful to my tutors for recognising something I didn’t have the confidence to see in myself.”

    Originally from Tolaga Bay, Heather discovered her passion for teaching while working at Te Pūtake Whakatupuranga Kōhanga Reo for several years.

    “My passion for teaching was sparked by a remarkable woman who created a structured routine with care and consistency. More than the learning itself, it was the foundational elements—routine, structure, and a diverse curriculum—that laid the groundwork for success.”

    EIT student Heather Glover (Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti) is the Valedictorian at the Tairāwhiti Campus graduation ceremony at the War Memorial Theatre in Gisborne on Friday.

    EIT Tairāwhiti proved to be the perfect place to study. The combination of face-to-face learning, hands-on experience in schools, and a strong support system helped her thrive. Throughout her degree, she worked in both rural and local schools, gaining experience with students from new entrants to Year 8.

    “The mix of on-campus learning and practical placements gave me the ideal environment to succeed.”
    Balancing study with motherhood was one of her biggest challenges, but EIT’s supportive environment made it possible.

    “EIT made it possible for me to achieve my goals. One tutor, in particular, was there for me in my first year before I took a break to have my son, and she was still there when I graduated. That kind of support made all the difference.”

    Now teaching Year 2 students, Heather is adjusting to the challenges and joys of being a new educator.

    “The support from the school staff has been incredible. Teachers provide helpful resources, thoughtful advice, and valuable information that make each day a bit smoother. There’s been so much new learning—not just for my students, but for me as well.”

    As she prepares for her valedictory speech, Heather admits the process has been both exciting and daunting. While she is still shaping the final version, she knows her speech will be centred around gratitude and the collective journey of all graduates.

    “Every day brings something new for my speech, and as the ceremony approaches, I think I’ll surprise myself with what I end up saying. But at its core, it will be about the people who helped me get here. Completing assignments and attending classes took personal effort, but my achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support I received. My speech will celebrate not just my own journey, but the collective contributions of every graduate and those who helped us reach this point.”

    Her partner, son, parents, and siblings will be there to witness the milestone with her.

    Heather believes achievements are often recognised through certificates and speeches, but the foundation behind them deserves acknowledgment too.

    “We’re often recognised for our achievements with a piece of paper or a speech, but what’s often overlooked is the foundation we’ve built and carried with us through life. That deserves its own recognition. For me, that foundation is te ao Māori—a culture rooted in kotahitanga, whanaungatanga, and aroha. It’s the world my mother nurtured us in, and now, I’m fortunate enough to share that same world with my own family and the students I teach.”

    Primary Education Lecturers Storm Dunn, Megan Kanz and Emma McFadyen say they will proudly watch and listen to Heather as she delivers her valedictory speech.

    “She has never lost sight of the end goal of becoming a teacher and steps out to make a difference for young people in Tairāwhiti having genuinely worked hard to achieve the Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) degree.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reining in water price increases for Aucklanders

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Increases in water charges for Auckland consumers this year will be halved under the Watercare Charter which has now been passed into law, Local Government Minister Simon Watts and Auckland Minister Simeon Brown say.
    The charter is part of the financial arrangement for Watercare developed last year by Auckland Council with the support of the Government under Local Water Done Well. 
    “Last year, the Government quickly progressed legislation to restore local control of water assets, overturning Labour’s Three Water reforms which were expensive and creating problems across the country. This included putting in place preliminary arrangements for the transition to safe, resilient, reliable, environmentally sound, and customer responsive water services at the least cost,” Mr Watts says.
    “The charter will help keep Auckland’s water services affordable, saving households about $899 million over four years while ensuring improved service quality and record infrastructure investment averaging $1.3 billion a year to unlock housing growth in Auckland.
    “By easing this financial pressure, Aucklanders can keep more money in their household budgets, allowing them to spend it on other essential expenses such as groceries and healthcare.”
    Under Auckland Council’s draft 2024-2034 long-term plan (LTP), Watercare charges for drinking water and wastewater connected residential consumers would have risen by an average of 14.6 percent on 1 July 2025. Under the charter, the increase will be 7.2 percent. This follows last year’s increase, also of 7.2 percent compared with the 25.8 percent increase proposed in the draft LTP for 1 July 2024.
    Auckland Minister Simeon Brown says the Government is committed to delivering affordable water charges for Aucklanders through the Local Water Done Well solution for Watercare, while ensuring that there is ongoing investment in critical infrastructure maintenance and growth. 
    “The high cost of living remains a top concern for Aucklanders, and our Government is committed to reducing unnecessary charges and taxes to provide relief. The Government’s Local Water Done Well solution for Watercare has prevented large increases in Aucklanders’ water rates while ensuring we keep investing in the water infrastructure our city will need,” Mr Brown says.
    Mr Watts says the charter will ensure Watercare faces incentives to invest in replacing and upgrading assets, improve efficiency, and provide water services at a quality that reflects consumer expectations. Importantly, it means that the benefits of efficiency improvement will be shared with consumers,” Mr Watts says
    “The Commission’s regulatory oversight of Watercare means greater transparency and accountability regarding water and wastewater network performance, customer service, and cost to consumers.
    “Infrastructure is vital for our cities to thrive, and because this Government listened and worked with Auckland Council, we delivered a solution that ensures Watercare has the flexibility and revenue certainty to fund future water infrastructure projects.
    “This approach also frees up Auckland Council’s own balance sheet to support it to invest in other critical infrastructure, supporting growth across the city.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New independent review function for civil aviation decisions

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A new independent review function will enable individuals and organisations to seek an expert independent review of specified civil aviation regulatory decisions made by, or on behalf of, the Director of Civil Aviation, Acting Transport Minister James Meager has announced today.
    “Today we are making it easier and more affordable for New Zealanders to challenge decisions that have a significant impact on their livelihoods, such as cancelling or suspending a pilot’s licence,” Mr Meager says.  
    “Until now, people have had to go to the courts to appeal a decision, a costly and time-consuming process. Being able to have decisions reviewed independently will now mean those people won’t incur these costs and delays, and they’ll have the opportunity for a quick, cost-effective determination so they can get on with delivering growth for New Zealand.” 
    The new review function will focus on the most impactful decisions that primarily relate to aviation documents. This includes granting or suspending pilot licences, air operator’s certificates, airworthiness certificates or maintenance engineer’s licences. It will also include decisions on individual exemptions from civil aviation regulations or rules.  
    The function will not review medical certification decisions, as these are already covered by the existing medical convener process.
    Application fees for reviews, which will partially recover the costs for the new independent review function, are set at $1,000 (excl. GST) for individuals and $1,500 (excl. GST) in any other case (such as for organisations). 
    “In comparison, I’ve heard that it can cost in excess of $300,000 to take an appeal through the District Court and it can take 3 to 4 years before there is a hearing.
    “I will soon be announcing the appointment of the independent reviewers who will be carrying out these reviews.”
    The independent review function will become operational on 5 April 2025 when the Civil Aviation Act 2023 comes into force.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police seeking Storm Hughes in central Auckland

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Be on the lookout for a man who is committing a spree of offending at central Auckland retailers.

    That’s the message from Police to the public and retailers around Auckland’s city centre and Newmarket.

    Storm Bryce Hughes also has numerous warrants for his arrest.

    The 49-year-old HeadHunters associate is wanted for aggravated robbery and other dishonesty offending.

    Inspector Grant Tetzlaff, Auckland Central Area Commander, says Hughes is still active around the city.

    “We believe he is continuing to commit offending at retail stores to the tune of thousands of dollars.

    “It’s important that we locate Hughes to prevent further offending taking place.

    “We are asking retailers and security staff, especially around the city and Newmarket, to be aware of Hughes.”

    Anyone who sees Hughes should contact Police straight away.

    “We do not advise anyone to take matters in their own hands, but instead contact Police and let us take care of it,” Inspector Tetzlaff says.

    Hughes has links to the west Auckland area.

    Inspector Tetzlaff says in recent theft reports, Hughes has been wearing glasses and occasionally a baseball cap.

    He may be carrying a backpack or reusable bag to help facilitate his offending.

    Hughes is described as being of medium build and is about 171 centimetres tall. 

    If you have information, please contact Police.

    Please contact 105 using the reference number 250306/7255.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS. 

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    Media note: Police are releasing two images in this appeal.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Notification: E tū Special Conference – E tū

    Source: Etu Union

    E tū is calling for a Special Conference to be held online on Thursday, 26 June 2025, at 6:00 PM.

    Purpose of the Special Conference

    E tū is required under the Incorporated Societies Act 2022 to register a new set of rules. The National Executive established a Constitutional subcommittee in late 2023 to review and draft a new Constitution. This draft was subsequently approved by the National Executive.

    The goal of this review is to ensure compliance with legislative requirements while maintaining the existing powers and obligations under our current rules. Notable changes required by law include:

    • A register of interests for governance members,
    • Inclusion of a National General Meeting, and
    • A disputes-resolution process.

    To finalise the adoption of these new rules, E tū will hold a special conference on 26 June 2025, where delegates will vote on the draft constitution.

    Who is eligible to attend?

    Only delegates who attended the 2024 E tū Conference are eligible to participate in this special conference. This includes:

    • Delegates who were physically present at the 2024 Conference.
    • Delegates who were elected but were unable to attend the 2024 Conference.

    Eligible delegates will be contacted by email with more information, including the links to attend the online Special Conference, closer to the time.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Efforts pay off with economic growth

    Source: ACT Party

    “It’s official: the economy is growing,” says ACT Leader David Seymour in response to new gross domestic product figures from Stats NZ showing 0.7 percent growth in the three months to December.

    “Firms, farms, and families have made tough sacrifices in a cost-of-living crisis, but now they’re starting to see the fruits of their efforts. Inflation is under control, interest rates are getting lower.

    “The economy returned to growth last year and is growing further. The Government must keep saving so there’s more for everyone to spend.

    “As households have more money to spend, and businesses gain confidence to invest and employ, we’ll see more growth, better paying jobs, and more reasons for the next generation to build families and careers in New Zealand.

    “With ACT in Government, we’re doing our part to speed along the recovery, cutting waste in Wellington and stripping back red tape that stops Kiwis from being productive. Let’s stay the course.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –