Asia Pacific Report
In the new weekly political podcast, The Bradbury Group, last night presenter Martyn Bradbury talked with visiting Palestinian journalist Dr Yousef Aljamal.
They assess the current situation in Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza and what New Zealand should be doing.
As Bradbury, publisher of The Daily Blog, notes, “Fourth Estate public broadcasting is dying — The Bradbury Group will fight back.”
Gaza crisis and Iran tensions. Video: The Bradbury Group/Radio Waatea
Also in last night’s programme was featured a View From A Far Podcast Special Middle East Report with former intelligence analyst Dr Paul Buchanan and international affairs commentator Selwyn Manning on what will happen next in Iran.
Political Panel:
Māori Party president John Tamihere,
NZ Herald columnist Simon Wilson
NZCTU economist Craig Renney
Topics:
– The Legacy of Tarsh Kemp
– New coward punch and first responder assault laws — virtue signalling or meaningful policy?
– Cost of living crisis and the failing economy
Tomorrow marks 40 years since the bombing and sinking of the Rainbow Warrior — a moment that changed the course of New Zealand’s history and reshaped how we saw ourselves on the world stage.
Two French agents planted two explosives on the ship, then just before midnight, explosions ripped through the hull killing photographer, Fernando Pereira and sinking the 47m ex-fishing trawler.
The attack sparked outrage across the country and the world, straining diplomatic ties between New Zealand and France and cementing the country’s anti-nuclear stance.
Few people are more closely linked to the ship than author and journalist Dr David Robie, who spent eleven weeks on board during its final voyage through the Pacific, and wrote the book, Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior, which is being published tomorrow. He joins Emile Donovan.
Tomorrow marks 40 years since the bombing and sinking of the Rainbow Warrior — a moment that changed the course of New Zealand’s history and reshaped how we saw ourselves on the world stage.
Two French agents planted two explosives on the ship, then just before midnight, explosions ripped through the hull killing photographer, Fernando Pereira and sinking the 47m ex-fishing trawler.
The attack sparked outrage across the country and the world, straining diplomatic ties between New Zealand and France and cementing the country’s anti-nuclear stance.
Few people are more closely linked to the ship than author and journalist Dr David Robie, who spent eleven weeks on board during its final voyage through the Pacific, and wrote the book, Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior, which is being published tomorrow. He joins Emile Donovan.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can confirm one person has died following a crash on Telegraph Road, Burnham.
The crash involving two vehicles was reported at about 3.30pm.
The Serious Crash Unit is on scene.
The road is currently closed with diversions in place until the scene examination has been completed.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
State Highway 1 is closed south of Hampden, while emergency services respond to a crash.
The two-vehicle crash near Moeraki Boulders Road was reported at around 4:20pm.
Initial indications are that there are serious injuries.
Motorists are advised to avoid an unnecessary travel, as there are no alternate routes available.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
The Palestine Forum of New Zealand is calling on the New Zealand Government to urgently align itself with over twenty nations — including Spain, Ireland, Turkey, China, Qatar, South Africa, and Brazil — that are coordinating concrete international measures in response to Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza.
An emergency summit of The Hague Group will take place in Colombia next week, with participating states seeking to enforce the International Court of Justice’s binding orders and address grave breaches of international law in Gaza.
“More than 58,000 Palestinians — mostly women and children have been killed, and Gaza has been reduced to rubble. The international community is moving decisively, and it’s time for New Zealand to take a principled stand,” said Maher Nazzal, spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand.
New Zealand has a proud legacy of supporting international law and human rights, from opposing apartheid to championing nuclear disarmament. It must now show moral clarity and leadership by joining the growing international coalition demanding an immediate ceasefire, the lifting of the blockade, and full accountability for crimes committed.
“We urge the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs to publicly commit to joining this initiative and to represent New Zealand at the upcoming summit. Inaction in the face of atrocity is complicity,” Maher Nazzal added.
Maher Nazzal
Palestine Forum of New Zealand
Source: New Zealand Police
War medals stolen from the mailbox of a veteran’s grandson in Wellsford earlier this month have been found and returned to their rightful owner.
On 9 July, Patrick Conlon made a report to Police after a valuable parcel was allegedly stolen from his mailbox.
Mr Conlon was understandably very upset by the theft – the parcel contained World War I medals that had been awarded to his grandfather, Elmer James Conlon.
Police established that the parcel had been delivered on 1 July, but had then gone missing before Mr Conlon could collect it.
Police appealed to the public for any information that could help locate the medals, or for any locals to report if they’d seen any suspicious activity in the area on the date of the theft.
Thankfully, yesterday, Police were contacted by the Wellsford War memorial museum staff advising that the medals had been located in their returns bin.
Senior Sergeant Damian Lawn says it appears someone had dropped them off overnight.
“We’re pleased that whoever took these medals did the right thing and returned them – obviously they are hugely significant to Mr Conlon and we are glad to be able to reunite him with them.
“We have fingerprinted the medals before returning them and we are continuing with our enquiries.”
Anyone who has any further information about the theft or those involved is asked to get in touch through our 105 service, using reference number 250709/8286.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk
New Caledonia’s pro-and-anti-independence parties have committed to an “historic” deal over the future political status of the French Pacific territory, which is set to become — for the first time — a “state” within the French realm.
The 13-page agreement yesterday, officially entitled “Agreement Project of the Future of New Caledonia”, is the result of a solid 10 days of difficult negotiations between both pro and anti-independence parties.
They have stayed under closed doors at a hotel in the small city of Bougival, in the outskirts of Paris.
The talks were convened by French President Emmanuel Macron after an earlier series of talks held between February and May 2025 failed to yield an agreement.
After opening the talks on July 2, Macron handed over them to his Minister for Overseas, Manuel Valls, to oversee. Valls managed to bring together all parties around the same table earlier this year.
In his opening speech earlier this month, Macron insisted on the need to restore New Caledonia’s economy, which was brought to its knees following destructive and deadly riots that erupted in May 2024.
He said France was ready to study any solution, including an “associated state” for New Caledonia.
During the following days, all political players exchanged views under the seal of strict confidentiality.
While the pro-independence movement, and its Kanak and Socialist National Liberation Front (FLNKS), remained adamant they would settle for no less than “full sovereignty”, the pro-France parties were mostly arguing that three referendums — held between 2018 and 2021 — had already concluded that most New Caledonians wanted New Caledonia to remain part of France.
Those results, they said, dictated that the democratic result of the three consultations be respected.
With this confrontational context, which resulted in an increasingly radicalised background in New Caledonia, that eventually led to the 2024 riots, the Bougival summit was dubbed the “last chance summit”.
In the early hours of Saturday, just before 7 am (Paris time, 5 pm NZ time), after a sleepless night, the secrecy surrounding the Bougival talks finally ended with an announcement from Valls.
He wrote in a release that all partners taking part in the talks had signed and “committed to present and defend the agreement’s text on New Caledonia’s future.”
Valls said this was a “major commitment resulting from a long work of negotiations during which New Caledonia’s partners made the choice of courage and responsibility”.
The released document, signed by almost 20 politicians, details what the deal would imply for New Caledonia’s future.
In its preamble, the fresh deal underlines that New Caledonia was “once again betting on trust, dialogue and peace”, through “a new political organisation, a more widely shared sovereignty and an economic and social refoundation” for a “reinvented common destiny.”
New Caledonia’s population will be called to approve the agreement in February 2026.
If approved, the text would be the centrepiece of a “special organic law” voted by the local Congress.
It would later have to be endorsed by the French Parliament and enshrined in an article of the French Constitution.
What does the agreement contain?
One of the most notable developments in terms of future status for New Caledonia is the notion of a “State of New Caledonia”, under a regime that would maintain it as part of France, but with a dual citizenship — France/New Caledonia.
Another formulation used for the change of status is the often-used “sui generis”, which in legal Latin, describes a unique evolution, comparable to no other.
This would be formalised through a fundamental law to be endorsed by New Caledonia’s Congress by a required majority of three-fifths.
The number of MPs in the Congress would be 56.
The text also envisages a gradual transfer of key powers currently held by France (such as international relations), but would not include portfolios such as defence, currency or justice.
In diplomacy, New Caledonia would be empowered to conduct its own affairs, but “in respect of France’s international commitments and vital interests”.
On defence matters, even though this would remain under France’s powers, it is envisaged that New Caledonia would be “strongly” associated, consulted and kept informed, regarding strategy, goals and actions led by France in the Pacific region.
On police and public order matters, New Caledonia would be entitled to create its own provincial and traditional security forces, in addition to national French law enforcement agencies.
New Caledonia’s sensitive electoral roll
The sensitive issue of New Caledonia’s electoral roll and conditions of eligibility to vote at local elections (including for the three Provincial Assemblies) is also mentioned in the agreement.
It was this very issue that was perceived as the main trigger for the May 2024 riots, the pro-independence movement feared at the time that changing the conditions to vote would gradually place the indigenous Kanak community in a position of minority.
It is now agreed that the electoral roll would be partly opened to those people of New Caledonia who were born after 1998.
The roll was frozen in 2007 and restricted to people born before 1998, which is the date the previous major autonomy agreement of Nouméa was signed.
Under the new proposed conditions to access New Caledonia’s “citizenship”, those entitled would include people who already can vote at local elections, but also their children or any person who has resided in New Caledonia for an uninterrupted ten years or who has been married or lived in a civil de facto partnership with a qualified citizen for at least five years.
Provincial elections once again postponed
One of the first deadlines on the electoral calendar, the provincial elections, was to take place no later than 30 November 2025.
It will be moved once again — for the third time — to May-June 2026.
A significant part of the political deal is also dedicated to New Caledonia’s economic “refoundation”, with a high priority for the young generations, who have felt left out of the system and disenfranchised for too long.
One of the main goals was to bring New Caledonia’s public debts to a level of sustainability.
In 2024, following the riots, France granted, in the form of loans, over 1 billion euros (NZ $1.9 billion) for New Caledonia’s key institutions to remain afloat.
But some components of the political chessboard criticised the measure, saying this was placing the French territory in a state of excessive and long-term debt.
Strategic nickel
A major topic, on the macro-economic side, concerns New Caledonia’s nickel mining industry, after years of decline that has left it (even before 2024) in a state of near-collapse.
Nickel is regarded as the backbone of New Caledonia’s economy.
A nickel “strategic plan” would aim at re-starting New Caledonia nickel’s processing plants, especially in the Northern province, but at the same time facilitating the export of raw nickel.
There was also a will to ensure that all mining sites (many of which have been blocked and its installations damaged since the May 2024 riots) became accessible again.
Meanwhile, France would push the European Union to include New Caledonia’s nickel in its list of strategic resources.
New Caledonia’s nickel industry’s woes are also caused by its lack of competitiveness on the world market — especially compared to Indonesia’s recent rise in prominence in nickel production — because of the high cost of energy.
Swift reactions, mostly positive
The announcement yesterday was followed by quick reactions from all sides of New Caledonia’s political spectrum and also from mainland France’s political leaders.
French Prime Minister François Bayrou expressed “pride” to see an agreement “on par with history”, emerge.
“Bravo also to the work and patience of Manuel Valls” and “the decisive implication of Emmanuel Macron,” he wrote on X-Twitter.
From the ranks of New Caledonia’s political players, pro-France Nicolas Metzdorf said he perceived as one of the deal’s main benefits the fact that “we will at last be able to project ourselves in the future, in economic, social and societal reconstruction without any deadline.”
Metzdorf admitted that reaching an agreement required concessions and compromise from both sides.
“But the fact that we are no longer faced with referendums and to reinforce the powers of our provinces, this was our mandate”, he told public broadcaster NC La 1ère.
“We’ve had to accept this change from New Caledonia citizenship to New Caledonian nationality, which remains to be defined by New Caledonia’s Congress. We have also created a completely new status as part of the French Republic, a sui generis State”, he noted.
He said the innovative status kept New Caledonia within France, without going as far as an “associated state” mooted earlier.
“At least, what we have arrived at is that New Caledonians remain French”, pro-France Le Rassemblement-LR prominent leader Virginie Ruffenach commented.
“And those who want to contribute to New Caledonia’s development will be able to do so through a minimum stay of residence, the right to vote and to become citizens and later New Caledonia nationals”
“I’m aware that some could be wary of the concessions we made, but let’s face it: New Caledonia nationality does not make New Caledonia an independent State . . . It does not take away anything from us, neither of us belonging to the French Republic nor our French nationality,” Southern Province pro-France President Sonia Backès wrote on social media.
In a joint release, the two main pro-France parties, Les Loyalistes and Rassemblement-LR, said the deal was no less than “historic” and “perennial” for New Caledonia as a whole, to “offer New Caledonia a future of peace, stability and prosperity” while at the same time considering France’s Indo-Pacific strategy.
From the pro-independence side, one of the negotiators, Victor Tutugoro of UNI-UPM (Progressist Union in Melanesia) said what mattered was that “all of us have placed our bets on intelligence, beyond our respective beliefs, our positions, our postures”.
“We put all of these aside for the good of the country.”
“Of course, by definition, a compromise cannot satisfy anyone 100 percent. But it’s a balanced compromise for everyone,” he said.
“And it allows us to look ahead, to build New Caledonia together, a citizenship and this common destiny everyone’s been talking about for many years.”
Before politicians fly back to New Caledonia to present the deal to their respective bases, President Macron received all delegation members last evening to congratulate them on their achievements.
During the Presidential meeting at the Elysée Palace, FLNKS chief negotiator Emmanuel Tjibaou (whose father Jean-Marie Tjibaou also struck a historic agreement and shook hands with pro-France leader Jacques Lafleur, in 1988), stressed the agreement was one step along the path and it allows to envisage new perspectives for the Kanak people.
A sign of the changing times, but in a striking parallel — 37 years after his father’s historic handshake with Lafleur, Emmanuel Tjibaou (whose father was shot dead in 1989 by a radical pro-independence partisan who felt the independence cause had been betrayed — did not shake hands, but instead fist pumped with pro-France’s Metzdorf.
In a brief message on social networks, the French Head of State hailed the conclusive talks, which he labelled “A State of New Caledonia within the (French) Republic,” a win for a “bet on trust.”
“Now is the time for respect, for stability and for the sum of good wills to build a shared future.”
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
With weather damage affecting critical routes across the top of the South Island, road users are warned to expect ongoing state highway closures and travel disruptions.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says with the school holidays ending this weekend, people can’t expect travel to be simple or easy.
“The fact is some routes have suffered significant damage from flooding, slips, and treefalls and won’t reopen to the public today.”
“Our advice is, don’t queue at state highway closure points and avoid the inland route between Nelson and Murchison. If you’re travelling between the top of the South and Canterbury, use State Highway 1 and the east coast instead,” Mr Owen says.
SH6 Rocks Road
State Highway 6 Rocks Road is not expected to reopen this weekend, and Mr Owen says it may remain closed into early next week. This will affect traffic, and delays and congestion can be expected while the closure remains in place.
“There are multiple slip zones and a serious risk of debris falling onto the road. Until these risks are mitigated, Rocks Road will remain closed to traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians. Please, for your own safety, stay out of the closure zone.”
“We will have a soft closure at the intersection of Russell Street, so local businesses can continue operating. Rest assured, contractors will do their best to reopen the route, but it is going to take some time,” Mr Owen says.
SH6 Belgrove to Murchison
Mr Owen says this route is expected to remain closed today as well.
“Our priority here is to punch a route through for first responders and restore a connection to cut-off communities like Tapawera. After that, we will work as hard as we can to get it open to the public.”
“There have been slips, tree falls, and flood damage along this section of the highway, and they will take time to clear,” Mr Owen says.
SH60 Tākaka Hill
Mr Owen says contractors are working hard to restore this route and reopen a connection to Tākaka and Golden Bay.
“A lifeline route for first responders and emergency services is the priority, and the highway is not expected to open to the public today.”
“There are a number of slips on the route, and these need to be inspected and assessed before the road can be safely reopened to the public,” Mr Owen says.
There is better news in Marlborough with all of the region’s highways open.
“Contractors managed to reopen State Highway 63 from Renwick to Korere-Tophouse Road to residents and essential travel at around 12:30 pm. The diversion at Andersons Bridge, put in place after flood damage two weeks ago, has held up to the heavy rain well.”
“Elsewhere it’s been a case of surface flooding and minor slips. Drivers can expect to see warnings in place and, with more rain forecast, they must drive to the conditions,” Mr. Owen says.
While the worst of the weather has passed, Mr Owen says its effect on State Highways will be ongoing.
“We are in response mode at the moment. Our focus is on reconnecting the network and restoring connections to cut-off communities.”
“However, once this passes, we will shift into recovery mode. This is where we plan and design what needs to be done to fix highways and infrastructure that have been badly damaged. This will take some time to finalise, and we don’t have the details yet. When we do, we will ensure affected communities are updated,” Mr Owen says.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
With weather damage affecting critical routes across the top of the South Island, road users are warned to expect ongoing state highway closures and travel disruptions.
Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says with the school holidays ending this weekend, people can’t expect travel to be simple or easy.
“The fact is some routes have suffered significant damage from flooding, slips, and treefalls and won’t reopen to the public today.”
“Our advice is, don’t queue at state highway closure points and avoid the inland route between Nelson and Murchison. If you’re travelling between the top of the South and Canterbury, use State Highway 1 and the east coast instead,” Mr Owen says.
SH6 Rocks Road
State Highway 6 Rocks Road is not expected to reopen this weekend, and Mr Owen says it may remain closed into early next week. This will affect traffic, and delays and congestion can be expected while the closure remains in place.
“There are multiple slip zones and a serious risk of debris falling onto the road. Until these risks are mitigated, Rocks Road will remain closed to traffic, cyclists, and pedestrians. Please, for your own safety, stay out of the closure zone.”
“We will have a soft closure at the intersection of Russell Street, so local businesses can continue operating. Rest assured, contractors will do their best to reopen the route, but it is going to take some time,” Mr Owen says.
SH6 Belgrove to Murchison
Mr Owen says this route is expected to remain closed today as well.
“Our priority here is to punch a route through for first responders and restore a connection to cut-off communities like Tapawera. After that, we will work as hard as we can to get it open to the public.”
“There have been slips, tree falls, and flood damage along this section of the highway, and they will take time to clear,” Mr Owen says.
SH60 Tākaka Hill
Mr Owen says contractors are working hard to restore this route and reopen a connection to Tākaka and Golden Bay.
“A lifeline route for first responders and emergency services is the priority, and the highway is not expected to open to the public today.”
“There are a number of slips on the route, and these need to be inspected and assessed before the road can be safely reopened to the public,” Mr Owen says.
There is better news in Marlborough with all of the region’s highways open.
“Contractors managed to reopen State Highway 63 from Renwick to Korere-Tophouse Road to residents and essential travel at around 12:30 pm. The diversion at Andersons Bridge, put in place after flood damage two weeks ago, has held up to the heavy rain well.”
“Elsewhere it’s been a case of surface flooding and minor slips. Drivers can expect to see warnings in place and, with more rain forecast, they must drive to the conditions,” Mr. Owen says.
While the worst of the weather has passed, Mr Owen says its effect on State Highways will be ongoing.
“We are in response mode at the moment. Our focus is on reconnecting the network and restoring connections to cut-off communities.”
“However, once this passes, we will shift into recovery mode. This is where we plan and design what needs to be done to fix highways and infrastructure that have been badly damaged. This will take some time to finalise, and we don’t have the details yet. When we do, we will ensure affected communities are updated,” Mr Owen says.
Source: New Zealand Police
Motorists travelling on State Highway 29, Lower Kaimai, are advised to expect delays following a crash.
Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash near Hanga Road at around 2:30pm.
One person has sustained moderate injuries.
Diversions are in place, and motorists should expect delays.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Government
A new dialysis unit will be established in Blenheim, providing life-changing support for local patients and their families closer to home, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
“This is a fantastic example of local communities and health providers working together to deliver better, more accessible care,” Mr Brown says.
“For too long, people in Marlborough needing dialysis have had to travel to Nelson Hospital three times a week – resulting in a total of four to five hours of travel each week. That’s time away from family, work, and home, and it adds stress to what is already a challenging health journey.
“This new four-chair unit in Blenheim will significantly reduce the burden on patients and their families, while also freeing up space in Nelson Hospital for those requiring more specialist dialysis care. It’s a life-changing initiative that responds to local need and supports a collaborative approach to delivering healthcare.
“The unit will support clinically stable patients, as well as those who are capable of self-dialysis but don’t have the right setup at home. These patients will be able to use the facility while continuing to manage their own treatment in a supported environment.
“With an ageing population and higher rates of chronic kidney disease expected over the next decade, this unit will make a real difference for many people in the region.”
This initiative is a true example of partnership in action, bringing together Health New Zealand, Marlborough Primary Health, closely supported by local iwi, the Iwi Māori Partnership Board, and Māori health provider Te Piki Oranga. It reflects a shared commitment to delivering services that are responsive and locally led.
The facility also highlights the remarkable generosity of the Marlborough community. A number of local charities and philanthropic trusts have stepped up to fund dialysis chairs, TVs, resuscitation kits, heat pumps, and other vital equipment. Contributors include the Care Foundation, Marlborough Hospital Equipment Trust, with other interest expressed by Rātā Foundation, Churchill Trust, Lotteries, and Marlborough District Council, which provided both a cash grant and a fee waiver for the resource consent.
“This is a powerful example of local care, delivered by local people, for the benefit of the Marlborough community.
“The new dialysis unit will ease the burden on patients and their families by reducing travel, relieving stress, and ensuring more people can get the care they need, closer to home,” Mr Brown says.
The unit is expected to open in October 2025.
With the effects of severe weather being felt across much of the country, ASB is offering a range of support options for customers impacted by weather this weekend.
Tailored support for personal, farming and business customers affected by weather will be offered on a case-by-case basis, with options including:
ASB Executive General Manager for Personal Banking Adam Boyd says ASB wants to hear from any customers needing financial assistance or support.
“It’s concerning to see Nelson Tasman being challenged again, with locals already dealing with the fallout from recent weather events. We understand this is a very tough time for the region. We encourage any personal, business or farming customers who are worried about money as a result of this weekend’s storms to please get in touch. Our teams have practical options available and we’re here to help.”
Personal customers needing support should call ASB’s contact centre on 0800 803 804. Alternatively, customers can email hardship@asb.co.nz. Affected ASB business and rural customers should speak to their relationship manager or call 0800 272 287.
Further detail on available support is available at Extreme support l ASB. More information and full terms, fees and charges can be found on ASB’s website.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police is urgently issuing a correction to an earlier release that contained incorrect details of the person who died in a fatal crash in Seddon on 18 June.
The correct name of the man who died is Andres Bonifacio Hernan Vergara Oportot, 50, from Blenheim.
Our sincere apologies to anyone affected by this error.
ENDS
Source: New Zealand Government
New Zealand’s relationships in Southeast Asia have never been more important for our security and prosperity, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says.
“As we deal with the current challenging, uncertain and disordered security environment, New Zealand is working ever more intensively with Southeast Asia,” says Mr Peters, who is currently in Malaysia for the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers Meeting.
“In 2025, we celebrate 50 years of dialogue relations between New Zealand and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN),” Mr Peters says.
“We are working towards agreeing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with ASEAN, and this week’s meetings in Malaysia have been an important step towards achieving that goal by October 2025.
“This week’s engagements have enabled New Zealand to commemorate a half-century of dialogue with ASEAN and reinforce our position as a reliable and valuable partner,” Mr Peters says.
Yesterday’s meeting was Mr Peters’ tenth engagement with the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers since his attendance at the inaugural Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Kuala Lumpur in December 2005.
“New Zealand is honoured to be among the original countries to establish the East Asia Summit as the region’s premier ASEAN-led strategic forum. Dialogue and cooperation between partners are more important than ever. New Zealand remains committed to our enduring partnership with ASEAN to shape the kind of region we all want.
“We reiterated our concern about the situation in Myanmar and tensions in the South China Sea, discussed security issues in the Middle East, and the increasingly serious challenges to the stability of the Indo-Pacific.”
Mr Peters also held bilateral talks with ministerial counterparts from Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, the United States and Viet Nam.
The Minister also met with alumni of the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme.
“As New Zealand strengthens its ties with Southeast Asia, it is important we build on our existing people-centred connections. Our Manaaki Scholarship Programme is a key part of this,” Mr Peters says.
This week’s visit by Mr Peters to Malaysia was the 36th by New Zealand Ministers to Southeast Asia since February 2024.
“New Zealand continues to significantly lift effort and engagement in Southeast Asia in order to enhance New Zealand’s security and prosperity.
“We are grateful to ASEAN Chair Malaysia for its hosting of this week’s meetings. We look forward to continuing to build our bilateral relationship.”
Mr Peters arrives back in New Zealand later today (12 July).
Source: New Zealand Police
Horahora Road, between State Highway 1 and Arapuni Road, Arapuni, is blocked following a road incident this morning.
Police were notified at around 5:45am of a tree that had fallen onto a vehicle, which is now blocking the road.
Forunately, no one was injured.
The road is closed, and motorists should avoid the area and expect significant delays.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre.
Asia Pacific Report
Nuclear-free and independent Pacific advocates are treating Aucklanders to a lively week-long exhibition dedicated to the struggle for nuclear justice in the region.
It will be opened today by the opposition Labour Party’s spokesperson on disarmament and MP for Te Atatu, Phil Twyford, and will include a range of speakers on Aotearoa New Zealand’s record as a champion of a nuclear-free Pacific and an independent foreign policy.
Speaking at a conference last month, Twyford said the country could act as a force for peace and demilitarisation, working with partners across the Pacific and Asia and basing its defence capabilities on a realistic assessment of threats.
The biggest threat to the security of New Zealanders was not China’s rise as a great power but the possibility of war in Asia, Twyford said.
Although there have been previous displays about the New Zealand nuclear-free narrative, this one has a strong focus on the Pacific.
it is called the “Legends of the Pacific: Stories of a Nuclear-free Moana 1975-1995” and will run from tomorrow, July 13 until Friday, July 18.
Veteran nuclear-free Pacific spokespeople who are expected to speak at the conference include Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua; Bharat Jamnadas, an organiser of the original Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) conference in Suva, Fiji, in 1975; businessman and community advocate Nikhil Naidu, previously an activist for the Fiji Anti-Nuclear Group (FANG) and Dr Heather Devere, peace researcher and chair of the Asia Pacific Media Network (APMN).
A group of Cook Islands young dancers will also take part.
Knowledge to children
One of the organisers, Nik Naidu, told Asia Pacific Report, it was vital to restore the enthusiasm and passion around the NFIP movement as in the 1980s.
“It’s so important to pass on our knowledge to our children and future generations,” he said.
“And to tell the stories of our on-going journey and yearning for true independence in a world free of wars and weapons of mass destruction. This is what a Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific is.”
The exhibition is is coordinated by the APMN in partnership with the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, with curator Tharron Bloomfield and coordinator Antony Phillips; Ellen Melville Centre; and the Whānau Communty Centre and Hub.
It is also supported by Pax Christi, Quaker Peace and Service Fund, and Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF).
It recalls New Zealand’s peace squadrons, a display of activist tee-shirt “flags”, nuclear-free buttons and badges, posters, and other memorabilia.
Timely exhibition
Author Dr David Robie, deputy chair of the APMN, who wrote the book Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior just published on Thursday, and dedicated to the NFIP movement, said the the exhibition was timely.
“It is a sort of back to the future situation where the world is waking up again to a nuclear spectre not really seen since the Cold War years,” he said.
“With the horrendous Israeli genocide on Gaza — it is obscene to call it a war, when it is continuous massacres of civilians; the attacks by two nuclear nations on a nuclear weapons-free country, as is the case with Iran; and threats against another nuclear state, China, are all extremely concerning developments.”
Asia Pacific Report
Nuclear-free and independent Pacific advocates are treating Aucklanders to a lively week-long exhibition dedicated to the struggle for nuclear justice in the region.
It will be opened today by the opposition Labour Party’s spokesperson on disarmament and MP for Te Atatu, Phil Twyford, and will include a range of speakers on Aotearoa New Zealand’s record as a champion of a nuclear-free Pacific and an independent foreign policy.
Speaking at a conference last month, Twyford said the country could act as a force for peace and demilitarisation, working with partners across the Pacific and Asia and basing its defence capabilities on a realistic assessment of threats.
The biggest threat to the security of New Zealanders was not China’s rise as a great power but the possibility of war in Asia, Twyford said.
Although there have been previous displays about the New Zealand nuclear-free narrative, this one has a strong focus on the Pacific.
it is called the “Legends of the Pacific: Stories of a Nuclear-free Moana 1975-1995” and will run from tomorrow, July 13 until Friday, July 18.
Veteran nuclear-free Pacific spokespeople who are expected to speak at the conference include Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua; Bharat Jamnadas, an organiser of the original Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific (NFIP) conference in Suva, Fiji, in 1975; businessman and community advocate Nikhil Naidu, previously an activist for the Fiji Anti-Nuclear Group (FANG) and Dr Heather Devere, peace researcher and chair of the Asia Pacific Media Network (APMN).
A group of Cook Islands young dancers will also take part.
Knowledge to children
One of the organisers, Nik Naidu, told Asia Pacific Report, it was vital to restore the enthusiasm and passion around the NFIP movement as in the 1980s.
“It’s so important to pass on our knowledge to our children and future generations,” he said.
“And to tell the stories of our on-going journey and yearning for true independence in a world free of wars and weapons of mass destruction. This is what a Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific is.”
The exhibition is is coordinated by the APMN in partnership with the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, with curator Tharron Bloomfield and coordinator Antony Phillips; Ellen Melville Centre; and the Whānau Communty Centre and Hub.
It is also supported by Pax Christi, Quaker Peace and Service Fund, and Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF).
It recalls New Zealand’s peace squadrons, a display of activist tee-shirt “flags”, nuclear-free buttons and badges, posters, and other memorabilia.
Timely exhibition
Author Dr David Robie, deputy chair of the APMN, who wrote the book Eyes of Fire: The Last Voyage and Legacy of the Rainbow Warrior just published on Thursday, and dedicated to the NFIP movement, said the the exhibition was timely.
“It is a sort of back to the future situation where the world is waking up again to a nuclear spectre not really seen since the Cold War years,” he said.
“With the horrendous Israeli genocide on Gaza — it is obscene to call it a war, when it is continuous massacres of civilians; the attacks by two nuclear nations on a nuclear weapons-free country, as is the case with Iran; and threats against another nuclear state, China, are all extremely concerning developments.”
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can confirm one person has died in a crash involving a car and truck on State Highway 1, near Tīrau today.
Emergency services were called to the scene, between Webster Road and State Highway 5, about 4pm.
Sadly, one person died at the scene.
The road remains closed, and diversions are in place.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
One person is in a critical condition after a serious crash between a tanker and a car.
The crash, on State Highway 29, Lower Kaimai, was reported about 5pm. The highway is blocked between McLaren Falls Road and Poripori Road.
The Serious Crash Unit has been notified, and the highway will likely remain closed for several hours.
Diversions are being arranged, but motorists are urged to expect delays and drive with care.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can confirm one person has died following a crash in Hornby this evening.
The single vehicle crash on Waterloo Road was reported just before 5pm.
Waterloo Road is currently closed, diversions are in place.
The Serious Crash Unit are in attendance.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can confirm one person has died following a crash on State Highway 3, Te Mapara earlier today.
The wo-vehicle crash was reported at around 11:30am.
The Serious Crash Unit attended and have completed a scene examination.
State Highway 3 has since re-opened.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
A three-car crash on Hillsborough Road around 5pm is causing major traffic delays in Mt Roskill.
Emergency services are onsite tending one person who has sustained moderate injuries.
One driver left the scene and attempts to locate that person are underway.
Road closures are in place between James Tyler Crescent and Dominion Road.
The Serious Crash Unit is in attendance and motorists are asked to avoid the area.
ENDS
Nicole Bremner/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Government
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says Fire and Emergency New Zealand is deploying an additional 43-person taskforce to Manitoba, Canada on Sunday 13 July to bolster support of Canada’s response to severe wildfires.
“This deployment is in addition to the seven firefighters who left New Zealand on Wednesday. As wildfires continue to burn across Canada it is important that New Zealand supports the firefighting efforts by Canadian crews,” says Ms van Velden.
The taskforce consists of an agency representative, two taskforce leaders and eight five-person arduous firefighting crews. Like the specialist team, it is intended that they will be deployed for approximately five weeks.
“I would like to commend all of those being deployed for answering the call of our Canadian colleagues in their time of need, giving up time with their families to do this important work.”
“As well as benefitting the Canadian crews, the deployment is also valuable experience for personnel at Fire and Emergency New Zealand.”
Across Canada there are 518 active wildfires. 105 of these are in the Manitoba province, with fourteen new fires starting in the last 24 hours.
Source: New Zealand Police
A burial for a newborn baby who was found deceased at an Auckland recycling plant almost four years ago will be held next month.
Baby Anahera, as she has been named by the community, was discovered at an Auckland recycling plant on August 16, 2021.
Auckland City CIB’s Detective Inspector Scott Beard says despite extensive enquires over the years investigators have been unable to identify the mother, father, or wider family.
“We have worked with the Coroner so that she can be laid to rest,” he says.
“Now she can be released, we will work through the arrangements for a community service for her.”
Police is aware of community plans for a service on 16 August, which will mark four years since she was found.
No matter how much time has passed, Detective Inspector Beard wants to reiterate to the family Police want to help resolve this for the baby and her family.
“It’s not too late for the baby’s mother or someone within her immediate circle of family or friends to come forward,” he says.
“We urge them and anyone else who might know what happened to do the right thing and talk to somebody, whether it’s Police or someone who can notify us on their behalf.”
Anyone with information is urged to contact 105 quoting file number 210816/2825 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
ENDS.
Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Police
A lead foot motorist who attempted to branch out and hide from Police has been caught up a tree in Haruru.
At about 8am yesterday, a vehicle travelling on Puketona Road sped away after noticing a nearby Police car.
Far North Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Richard Garton, says the vehicle was not signalled to stop and a short time later the driver lost control and crashed.
“Officers then observed the man get out of the vehicle and flee on foot.
“The Police Dog Unit was contacted and managed to track the man, who was located a short distance away hiding up a tree.”
The man was taken into custody without further incident.
“Thankfully no one was injured, however these types of situations are extremely concerning for our staff and I hope our quick response reassures the community that we have absolutely no tolerance for incidents like these.”
A 36-year-old man appeared in Kaikohe District Court charged with dangerous driving and driving while disqualified.
ENDS.
Holly McKay/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are now in a position to release the name of the man who died following a fatal crash in Seddon on 18 June.
She was Lorena Vargas Burgos, 48, from Blenheim
Police extends our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre