NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Boost for Rotorua’s youth mental health services

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says funding from the Mental Health Innovation Fund will support an additional 560 young people in Rotorua to get mental health and addiction support and help provide a range of courses and workshops focused on upskilling people in the community to better support youth.
    “Mental health and wellbeing is a prominent issue for many young people across the country, and we’re committed to helping young Kiwis get the support, they need, when they need it,’ Mr Doocey says.
    “I’m pleased that this new funding for the Rotorua Community Youth Centre Trust will enable them to expand their team and scale up the valuable work it does to support young people and help them reach their full potential.
    “The Trust provides free, youth-centred primary health, mental health, and social services to young people.
    “The Trust is the sixth successful recipient of the first round of the Fund, with Youthline, the Sir John Kirwan Foundation, MATES in Construction, the Mental Health Foundation and Wellington City Mission already announced, I intend to announce other successful providers in the coming weeks.
    “The Mental Health Innovation Fund was set up to provide $10 million over two years to support non-government organisations (NGOs) and community providers with extra funding to scale-up existing time-limited projects or initiatives that aim to improve mental health and addiction outcomes in New Zealand.
    “This fund is part of the Government’s commitment to investing in grassroots initiatives through non-governmental and community organisations that deliver mental health and addiction support.
    “I expect the next round of funding for the Innovation Fund will open in about the middle of this year, which will be another opportunity for organisations to seek additional funding,” Mr Doocey says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New population of critically endangered kākāriki established

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  05 March 2025

    The taonga were released on the predator-free island in Fiordland’s Tamatea/Dusky Sound on Friday, after two days in acclimatisation aviaries on the island.

    The manu were bred and raised at The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust and Orana Wildlife Park in Christchurch before being flown to Invercargill, where they were met by representatives from Ōraka-Aparima Rūnaka on behalf of Kaitiaki Rōpū Ki Murihiku.

    Joshua Kingipotiki and Alex Taurima from Ōraka-Aparima Rūnaka accompanied the manu on their helicopter journey to the island, welcoming them with karakia and waiata.

    “Being part of this release was a big learning experience and rather humbling, as it was the first time that I have been in the presence of kākāriki karaka,” Joshua Kingipotiki says.

    Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu Kākāriki Karaka Species Representative Yvette Couch-Lewis says it is exciting to have mana whenua representatives from Ōraka-Aparima leading the tikanga and kawa of welcoming the kākāriki karaka onto the motu, with assistance from a kaitiaki ranger.

    “Ngāi Tahu is definitely on a journey with this manu,” Yvette Couch-Lewis says.

    “Kākāriki karaka are our smallest parrots, but they have a great deal of mana and are proof that the best things can come in small packages.”

    “For me it is a very emotional process seeing these manu, which have been born and raised in captivity, being released into the wild. There is a sense of amnesia associated with engaging with this manu because we haven’t had the opportunity in generations to observe them in their natural environment.

    “Translocations such as this are important because they build the population up so that one day we can engage with kakariki karaka again.”

    DOC Kākāriki Karaka Operations Manager Wayne Beggs says setting up a secure new wild site is a huge step forward for the recovery of the species.

    “Kākāriki karaka are extremely vulnerable to introduced predators, so finding safe places for them to live and breed in the wild is vitally important for the species’ survival.

    “The predator-free beech and rimu forest on Pukenui/Anchor Island should be a great site for kākāriki karaka to flourish.”

    Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust (ICWT) CEO Rob Kinney says the last six months of intensive husbandry by staff at ICWT is a testament to their dedication and expertise in caring for this critically endangered bird species.

    “We are proud of our partnership with DOC and our involvement in this important conservation project.”

    The vision of the recently released kākāriki karaka recovery strategy, Te Ara Mōrehu, is that kākāriki karaka will be thriving independently in the wild, with ten self-sustaining populations in the Ngāi Tahu takiwā in the next 20 years.

    The recovery programme thanks tourism operator RealNZ and specialist insole company Formthotics for their significant donations which made the translocation and follow-up monitoring possible.

    “RealNZ’s purpose is to help the world fall in love with conservation, and one of our flagship events aligned to this purpose is our annual Conservation Ball, aligning with the Department of Conservation to identify key projects that would benefit from our support,” says RealNZ CEO Dave Beeche.

    “It’s incredible to see the funds raised from the 2023 Conservation Ball in action, assisting with the translocation of these critically endangered manu to Pukenui Anchor Island.”

    Wayne says a lot of planning, effort, and cost goes into a translocation like this, and its success relies on a range of people and groups working together.

    “We plan to do more translocations in the future. The NZ Nature Fund is raising money for this work and the public can contribute through their website.”

    The kākāriki karaka recovery programme is supported by The Isaac Conservation and Wildlife Trust, Orana Wildlife Park, Canterbury University, Mainpower, and the NZ Nature Fund.

    Related links

    Background information

    Kaitiaki Rōpū Ki Murihiku represent the four southern Ngāi Tahu Papatipu Rūnanga: Te Rūnanga o Hokonui, Ōraka-Aparima Rūnaka, Waihōpai Rūnaka, and Te Rūnaka o Awarua.

    With about 450 left in the wild, kākāriki karaka are the rarest mainland forest bird in Aotearoa. The population naturally fluctuates based on environmental conditions.

    They were once plentiful across the country but proved an easy meal for introduced predators and were affected by habitat loss, which saw their numbers dwindle.

    Because they nest and roost in holes in trees, kākāriki karaka are extremely vulnerable to rats, stoats and cats.

    The species was twice declared extinct in the past (in 1919 and 1965) before being rediscovered in the late 1980s.

    Anchor Island/Pukenui is already home to a range of threatened bird species including kākāpō.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash, Matamata

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists in Matamata are advised of a collision between two vehicles on a railway crossing in the town.

    It happened at the intersection of Firth and Tainui Streets just before 8:50am, and is understood to involve a car and a light railway vehicle.

    There do not immediately appear to be any injuries of note.

    Traffic control is in place for motorists, however drivers are advised to avoid this intersection for the time being.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greater role for nurses in primary care

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Boosting our nursing workforce will deliver immediate benefits to people seeking care, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.“Kiwis will get better access to primary healthcare under our Government’s plan to empower more nurses to deliver timely, quality services in local communities.“Strengthening this important workforce is vital to ensuring New Zealanders get the care they need, when they need it.“Cabinet has agreed to: 

    Increase the number of training places for nurse practitioners specialising in primary care to 120 a year. 
    Support advanced education for up to 120 primary care registered nurses.

    “New Zealand nurses already have the expertise to provide high-quality care in local communities. By increasing their skills and qualifications, more patients can be seen sooner, and pressure on doctors is eased.“Nurse practitioners are highly skilled professionals who can diagnose conditions, prescribe medicines and develop treatment plans. They often manage more complex healthcare needs, giving New Zealanders greater choice and better access to health services.“The Government will invest $34.2 million over five years to fund 120 nurse practitioner training places in primary care each year from 2026. “An additional $21.6 million over four years will accelerate advanced tertiary education for up to 120 primary care registered nurses annually, bringing healthcare closer to home.“Registered nurses who obtain advanced qualifications can become registered nurse prescribers and may choose to continue their training to become nurse practitioners.“This allows more Kiwis to get ongoing care, including prescriptions, without needing a doctor’s appointment.“A stronger health workforce that we can retain is critical. We know that making primary care an attractive place to work for doctors and nurses keeps healthcare local for patients. “These initiatives build on our plan to attract and recruit up to 400 graduate registered nurses a year into primary care roles, and train and hire more doctors,” Mr Brown says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New database improves effort to stop terrorist and violent extremist material

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden is welcoming the introduction of a new ‘hash’ database to counter digital violent extremism and protect the wellbeing of investigators.
    “One of the many roles of the Department of Internal Affairs is preventing the spread of illegal objectionable material that encourages violent extremism. This new database will increase the efficiency of this work and better safeguard the wellbeing of the staff who deal with this content,” says Ms van Velden.
    The database works by assigning a unique identifier, called a ‘hash’, to each piece of illegal content. These hashes can then be used to identify files that have already been classified as illegal, reducing the time required to individually identify material and preventing investigators from being repeatedly exposed to disturbing content.
    The Department has the authority to issue ‘take-down notices’ to have the illegal material removed from online sites, including social media. The Department reports that most platforms promptly comply with such requests to remove the content. The database is also a useful tool in investigations into individuals found in possession of illegal material.
    The database has been designed to be shared with the New Zealand Police, Customs Service, Security Intelligence Service, and international law enforcement agencies. The Department of Internal Affairs report that it has received positive feedback from partner agencies.
    “The investigators in the Digital Violent Extremism team do incredible work preventing the spread of illegal terrorist content. I’m pleased that this new hashing database will ease the burden on them, as well as increase the efficiency and effectiveness of the Department.”   

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business Acquisitions – Family Values Drive Kennards Hire’s Kiwi Hire Group Acquisition

    Source: Kennards Hire

    New Plymouth, New Zealand – 5 March 2025: Family-owned equipment hire company, Kennards Hire, is expanding its footprint into New Plymouth, opening its first branch in the Taranaki region with the strategic acquisition of Kiwi Hire Group.

    Following recent openings in Napier and Taupō, the move into New Plymouth marks Kennards Hire’s 31st branch in New Zealand, reinforcing the company’s ongoing commitment to building local communities and industries across the country.

    The origins of Kiwi Hire Group go back to 2016 when the Potter family first started building up the business. Over the years, it grew into a trusted name in the Taranaki region, providing specialist gear to local businesses, construction professionals, and DIY customers.

    Previously owned and operated by Brad and Christine Potter, the husband-and-wife team will now continue to manage the new Kennards Hire branch. The Potter duo was also delighted to have the majority of the Kiwi Hire Group decide to join the Kennards Hire family in this new chapter.

    Brad Potter, Branch Manager of Kennards Hire New Plymouth, said:  “Through this acquisition, our goal is to ensure that our customers, and staff, continue to be well looked after. Kennards Hire is a family-owned business with the same aligned values as Kiwi Hire Group – and this has made all the difference.

    “Beyond that family connection, our combined expertise and an expanded range of quality equipment will allow us to provide the best possible service to the community for many more years.”

    Speaking about the acquisition, Tom Kimber, General Manager of Kennards Hire New Zealand, said: “Following recent branch openings in Taupō and Napier, this new location establishes a key foothold on the west coast of the North Island. Its strategic positioning enhances connectivity between major regional centres, including Taupō, South Waikato, Palmerston North, and Whanganui, enabling us to better support local businesses and communities.

    “What makes this expansion even more special is the strong family connection between our businesses. Like Kennards Hire, Kiwi Hire Group is a family-run company built on a foundation of trust, expertise, and customer-first service. We’re proud to continue their legacy and bring our shared values to the New Plymouth community.”

    In partnership with KidsCan, Aotearoa New Zealand’s leading charity dedicated to helping children affected by poverty, Kennards Hire New Plymouth will be actively supporting the local community, including partnerships with 11 schools in the region through the KidsCan School Buddy Programme.

    Talking to this community engagement, Brad Potter said: “Kiwi Hire Group has always championed our local community, and now, as part of the Kennards Hire family, those values will live on – whether through sponsoring local events like Americarna or supporting schools through the KidsCan partnership. We are immensely proud to contribute to this commitment.”

    Christine Potter, Assistant Branch Manager of Kennards Hire New Plymouth, also added: “Becoming part of the Kennards Hire family marks an exciting new chapter in our journey. It will enable us to share our expertise, strengthen the team, broaden our offerings to the local community, and above all, continue delivering outstanding service to our customers.”

    The new branch will offer a wide range of high-quality equipment hire products and services as well as access to specialty branches in the region, all made easier through Kennards Hire’s online booking platform.

    To celebrate the new opening, Kennards Hire is teaming up with The Rock Taranaki and hosting a Tradie Breakfast at the Kennards Hire New Plymouth Branch, 643 Devon Road on the 7th of March, from 6:30am to 8:30am. For more information, visit the event page here: https://www.rova.nz/events/the-rock-taranaki-kennards-hire-new-plymouth-tradie-breakfast

    About Kennards Hire:

    About Kennards Hire – New Zealand Kennards Hire is a family-owned and operated company that has been in the hire industry for more than 75 years, with over 215 sites and branches across New Zealand and Australia. Since 1948, its diverse product range extends from general hire equipment for the home renovator and professional tradesperson to specialist equipment and heavy machinery used on some of the largest civil infrastructure and commercial construction projects in two countries. Eden Park Icon Partner, Forsyth Barr Stadium Partner, proud member of the Family Business Association, Member of Hire Industry Association New Zealand, major supporter of KidsCan and Springboard Community Works. Kennardshire.co.nz

    Kennards Hire New Plymouth is now open at open at 643 Devon Rd,

    About the KidsCan School Buddy Programme:

    KidsCan is supported by Kennards Hire and the Kennards Hire Foundation.

    Kennards Hire has been running the KidsCan School Buddy Programme since 2014, to help enhance learning environments by offering essential equipment, expert guidance, and volunteer support. Today, up to 367 KidsCan-affiliated schools across the country benefit from this Programme.

    To find out more about the valuable work that KidsCan does, visit their website: https://www.kidscan.org.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Fonterra’s palm kernel supply link to illegal palm operations bad news for Nestlé

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace Aotearoa says Fonterra’s entire supply chain is tainted with illegal palm products after all of the major importers of palm kernel into New Zealand have been found to be illegally operating palm plantations in Indonesia.
    A decree from the Indonesian Minister of Forestry released a list of 436 companies operating palm plantations without proper permits in Indonesian forest areas. New Zealand’s main importers of palm kernel – Wilmar International, Viterra, GAR, Musim Mas and Apical – are all implicated in this list of illegal operators.
    Greenpeace spokesperson Sinéad Deighton-O’Flynn says, “Over the last 20 years, nearly 10 million hectares of primary forest have been destroyed in Indonesia, and palm plantations have been the leading driver of that deforestation. It is shameful that New Zealand’s dairy industry, led by Fonterra, continues to contribute to this destruction through its reliance on palm kernel.”
    New Zealand is the world’s biggest importer of palm kernel, importing nearly 2 million tonnes annually from Southeast Asia. Palm kernel is used as a supplementary feed for dairy cows, particularly during dry summer months when there isn’t enough grass to feed the dairy herd. The main importer of palm kernel to New Zealand is Wilmar International, the parent company of Agrifeeds, which sells its palm kernel exclusively through Fonterra’s Farm Source stores.
    “This new evidence indicates that Fonterra and Agrifeeds are both complicit in deforestation and the destruction of rare wildlife habitat in Southeast Asia,” says Deighton-O’Flynn.
    “When Fonterra uses deforestation-linked palm kernel, it becomes embedded in its dairy products, tainting its entire supply chain. This means products like Kit Kat, Snickers bars and Milo, which are made with Fonterra’s dairy, are linked to deforestation too.”
    An analysis published by Greenpeace Indonesia indicated that as of 2019, illegal oil palm plantings in Indonesia’s forest estate occupied 183,687 hectares of land previously mapped as orangutan habitat and 148,839 hectares of Sumatran tiger habitat. Both species are critically endangered.
    In Decree 36/2025, Indonesia’s Minister of Forestry revealed that over 1 million hectares of forest are being used for palm plantations illegally, with 790,474 hectares in the process of settlement, while 317,253 hectares have been rejected for settlement.
    Deighton-O’Flynn says, “Fonterra made a commitment to zero deforestation in its supply chains by 2025, and its biggest customers like Nestlé, MARS and Danone all have Zero Deforestation policies. However, this Indonesian Government decree implicates all of these companies in illegal operations and associated historic deforestation in Indonesia.”
    Wilmar International, and many of the other companies listed hold Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) certifications. A Greenpeace report from 2021, found that certifications like RSPO are weak tools to protect rainforests and peatlands from deforestation.
    “Fonterra must ban the use of rainforest-destroying palm kernel on all of its farms across the country in light of these new developments. The company cannot continue to claim to be deforestation-free while relying on this destructive feed.”
    In late 2024, Greenpeace announced it was suing Fonterra for false claims on its Anchor Butter packaging. The packaging bore a label reading ‘100% New Zealand grass-fed’, despite Fonterra’s own policy allowing for up to 20% of a cow’s diet to be palm kernel. Since the lawsuit was announced on September 30th, the dairy giant has changed the logo on the packaging – but the grass-fed claim remains.
    Deighton O’Flynn says, “Fonterra must phase out the use of palm kernel, instead of relying on greenwash tactics, like misleading logos, weak sustainability certifications and a deforestation policy that ignores rainforest destroying palm kernel.
    “As Fonterra looks to sell its consumer brands, we’re issuing a warning to potential buyers. Fonterra’s grass is not as green as they claim it is – in fact, in some cases, it isn’t grass at all.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Student wellbeing probed on biggest campus in Aotearoa New Zealand – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    One of the country’s biggest investigations into student wellbeing is being carried out by psychology students and their teachers at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.

    In-depth interviews with more than 100 undergraduate students from minority and marginalised groups such as Māori, Pasifika, Chinese, South Asian, and LGBTQIA+ will inform student support on the nation’s biggest campus, which has 47,000 students. Most of the research is being carried out by nine postgraduate students.

    Professor Kerry Gibson, who’s Pākeha, and Dr Sarah Kapeli, of Tongan descent, lead the project, which is backed by University leadership including the Vice-Chancellor and the Māori and Pacific Pro-Vice Chancellors. Recommendations on how to better support students are likely to come later this year and facilitating connection will be key.

    “When students come to university it is for more than just a degree. It’s a time when young people are working out who they want to be and how they fit in the world,” said Gibson. “This is more important than ever after Covid had such a disruptive effect on young people’s learning and socialising.”

    Rates of mental health problems are increasing among university students, according to international studies.

    “Changing the environment so that it supports students better will help their academic success and also help prevent the development of mental health problems in this age group and into adulthood,” Gibson said.

    Stresses reported by students in the Auckland study include:

    academic pressure
    academic competition
    financial insecurity
    balancing paid work and university work
    balancing home and family commitments with university
    feeling disconnected and isolated in a large institution
    wider worries such as a competitive job market and climate change

     
    “Finding a sense of belonging is central to young people’s success at university and later in life,” said Kapeli. “Feeling comfortable at university is important for all students but can be particularly challenging for marginalised groups of students.”

    Challenges for Sāmoan and Tongan students include juggling family-comes-first commitments with university life and working out where self-care fits within collectivist values, say masters students Seulele Vine and Malia Vaka’uta. Pasifika students value Pasifika spaces on campus and highlight the role of religiosity or spirituality in wellbeing.
     
    In the study, interviews, talanoa and kōrero have mostly been conducted by researchers from the same minority or marginalised groups as the interviewees.

    Jemma Dixon, Shelby Symons, and Jack Dobson are researching Māori students’ experiences; Skyler Hsieh, Rainbow students; Senuri Panditharatne, South Asian students; and Kahn Tasker, Chinese students. Emma Johnston is studying the impact of existential threats such as climate change.

    The first theses based on the research, which began in 2022, were submitted last month.

    “For some students, it’s been cathartic,” says Kapeli. “They’ve never been asked questions like this before. We know that some are struggling – they don’t know where to get help or don’t think they can ask for help.”

    Also contributing to the project are Kaiwhakaako Mātai Hinengaro Hineatua Parkinson and Dr Roshini Peiris-John, co-director of the University’s Centre for Asian and Ethnic Minority Health Research and Evaluation.  The Spencer Foundation, a US organisation funding education research, contributed US$50,000 toward Māori and Pasifika aspects of the study.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Back off AUKUS’, Greens MP Tuiono warns NZ in wake of Trump row

    Asia Pacific Report

    The Green Party has called on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to rule out Aotearoa New Zealand joining the AUKUS military technical pact in any capacity following the row over Ukraine in the White House over the weekend.

    President Donald Trump’s “appalling treatment” of his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy was a “clear warning that we must avoid AUKUS at all costs”, said Green Party foreign affairs and Pacific issues spokesperson Teanau Tuiono.

    “Aotearoa must stand on an independent and principled approach to foreign affairs and use that as a platform to promote peace.”

    US President Donald Trump has paused all military aid for Ukraine after the “disastrous” Oval Office meeting with President Zelenskyy in another unpopular foreign affairs move that has been widely condemned by European leaders.

    Oleksandr Merezhko, the chair of Ukraine’s Parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, declared that Trump appeared to be trying to push Kyiv to capitulate on Russia’s terms.

    He was quoted as saying that the aid pause was worse than the 1938 Munich Agreement that allowed Nazi Germany to annex part of Czechoslovakia.

    ‘Danger of Trump leadership’
    Tuiono, who is the Green Party’s first tagata moana MP, said: “What we saw in the White House at the weekend laid bare the volatility and danger of the Trump leadership — nothing good can come from deepening our links to this administration.

    “Christopher Luxon should read the room and rule out joining any part of the AUKUS framework.”

    Tuiono said New Zealand should steer clear of AUKUS regardless of who was in the White House “but Trump’s transactional and hyper-aggressive foreign policy makes the case to stay out stronger than ever”.

    “Our country must not join a campaign that is escalating tensions in the Pacific and talking up the prospects of a war which the people of our region firmly oppose.

    “Advocating for, and working towards, peaceful solutions to the world’s conflicts must be an absolute priority for our country,” Tuiono said.

    Five Eyes network ‘out of control’
    Meanwhile, in the 1News weekly television current affairs programme Q&A, former Prime Minister Helen Clark challenged New Zealand’s continued involvement in the Five Eyes intelligence network, describing it as “out of control”.

    Her comments reflected growing concern by traditional allies and partners of the US over President Trump’s handling of long-standing relationships.

    Clark said the Five Eyes had strayed beyond its original brief of being merely a coordinating group for intelligence agencies in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

    “There’s been some talk in the media that Trump might want to evict Canada from it . . . Please could we follow?” she said.

    “I mean, really, the problem with Five Eyes now has become a basis for policy positioning on all sorts of things.

    “And to see it now as the basis for joint statements, finance minister meetings, this has got a bit out of control.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrests made following Waikato aggravated robberies

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attributable to Detective Sergeant Mark Leathem, Thames CIB:

    Police have today made an arrest in relation to two aggravated robberies in the Waikato East area.

    On Friday 28 February, Police were alerted to four people entering a commercial premises on Tararu Road at around 5:10am with their faces covered.

    Three were armed with a machete, a metal pole and a crowbar.

    The group assaulted an employee and targeted cash and cigarettes, before fleeing the area in a vehicle.

    The employee received minor injuries and is being provided support.

    On Monday 3 March, four people entered a premises on Kerepehi Town Road, where they have also had their faces covered and threatened an employee with weapons.

    Thankfully, in this instance, the employee was not injured, however they are shaken by the incident. They are being provided support.

    They targeted cigarettes, tobacco, and vapes, then fled the scene in a vehicle.

    After making initial enquiries and conducting scene examinations, Waikato East CIB launched an investigation to identify and locate the persons responsible for the incidents.

    Today, Police executed a series of search warrants in the Thames area, supported by the Waikato Armed Offenders Squad.

    As a result, a 17-year-old was arrested and is due to appear in Hamilton Youth Court on Wednesday 5 March.

    A 20-year-old man was also located and arrested on unrelated warrants to arrest.

    Police continue to investigate the two aggravated robberies and are working hard to identify and hold those responsible to account.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Mark Mitchell missing in action

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Police Minister Mark Mitchell is avoiding accountability by refusing to answer key questions in the House as his Government faces criticism over their dangerous citizen’s arrest policy, firearm reform, and broken promises to recruit more police.

    “Despite being responsible for policing, Mark Mitchell is missing in action. He has refused to answer questions on key issues affecting New Zealander’s safety,” Labour police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said

    “Instead of fronting up on the citizen’s arrest proposal, Mitchell left it to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith, despite strong opposition from the Police Association and Retail NZ.

    “When asked about firearms law changes, Mitchell defers to Nicole McKee, a former gun lobbyist.

    “On police recruitment, Mitchell promised 500 new officers in two years, but since his statement, police numbers have dropped. The Government now needs to recruit 572 officers in just nine months to meet its target—an impossible task if done properly. Instead of answering for his continued failures, he hides behind his deputy, Casey Costello, to respond.

    “Meanwhile, under Mark Mitchell’s watch, methamphetamine use has surged to historic levels. New Zealanders deserve a Police Minister who will break the cycle of crime, not one who hides when the tough questions come,” Ginny Andersen 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-Evening Report: ‘Our film won an Oscar. But here in West Bank’s Masafer Yatta we’re still being erased.’

    AMY GOODMAN: And the Oscars were held Sunday evening. History was made in the best documentary category.

    SAMUEL L. JACKSON: And the Oscar goes to ‘No Other Land’.

    AMY GOODMAN: The Palestinian-Israeli film No Other Land won for best documentary. The film follows the struggles of Palestinians in the occupied West Bank community of Masafer Yatta to stay on their land amidst violent attacks by Israeli settlers aimed at expelling them. The film was made by a team of Palestinian-Israeli filmmakers, including the Palestinian journalist Basel Adra, who lives in Masafer Yatta, and the Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham. 

    Both filmmakers — Palestinian activist and journalist Basel Adra, who lives in Masafer Yatta, and Israeli journalist Yuval Abraham — spoke at the ceremony. Adra became the first Palestinian filmmaker to win an Oscar.

    BASEL ADRA: Thank you to the Academy for the award. It’s such a big honor for the four of us and everybody who supported us for this documentary.

    About two months ago, I became a father. And my hope to my daughter, that she will not have to live the same life I am living now, always fearing — always — always fearing settlers’ violence, home demolitions and forceful displacements that my community, Masafer Yatta, is living and facing every day under the Israeli occupation.

    ‘No Other Land’ reflects the harsh reality that we have been enduring for decades and still resist as we call on the world to take serious actions to stop the injustice and to stop the ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.

    YUVAL ABRAHAM: We made this — we made this film, Palestinians and Israelis, because together our voices are stronger.

    We see each other — the atrocious destruction of Gaza and its people, which must end; the Israeli hostages brutally taken in the crime of October 7th, which must be freed.

    When I look at Basel, I see my brother. But we are unequal. We live in a regime where I am free under civilian law and Basel is under military laws that destroy his life and he cannot control.

    There is a different path: a political solution without ethnic supremacy, with national rights for both of our people. And I have to say, as I am here: The foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path.

    And, you know, why? Can’t you see that we are intertwined, that my people can be truly safe if Basel’s people are truly free and safe? There is another way.

    It’s not too late for life, for the living. There is no other way. Thank you.


    Israeli and Palestinian documentary ‘No Other Land’ wins Oscar. Video: Democracy Now!

    Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Operation Fielder: Ōrere Point investigation update

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Statement attributable to Superintendent Shanan Gray, Counties Manukau District Commander:

    Investigations are ongoing surrounding the events that unfolded in Ōrere Point on Sunday afternoon.

    Our staff involved in the incident are being well-supported through the process.

    A post-mortem will be carried out to determine the cause of death for the man who died on the beach.

    It is expected that this post-mortem will be completed tomorrow.

    Police can confirm the man has now been identified and today his next of kin has been notified.

    Police will be releasing further information about this man in due course, once next of kin has time to inform other family members.

    Update on the driver:

    The 42-year-old driver arrested on Sunday has now been charged over previous alleged offending in the Waitematā District.

    He has been charged over aggravated robberies at a Wairau Valley bowling alley on 14 February and a Takapuna bar late on 1 March.

    Overall, he faces two counts of aggravated robbery and two counts of commission of a crime with a firearm.

    The man has also been charged with impersonating Police in relation to the 14 February offending.

    In that instance it will be alleged he wore clothing that resembled Police uniform.

    He has been remanded in custody to reappear in the North Shore District Court on 10 March.

    Continued appeal for footage:

    Police are aware there were quite a number of people in and around the beach at the time this incident unfolded on Sunday.

    We were able to speak to some witnesses at the time, but we still need to hear from others about what they saw.

    If you have yet to speak to Police, please contact us.

    Likewise, the investigation team would like any footage captured to be sent to Police to assist the investigation.

    If you have footage, please contact Police online or call 105. A member of the investigation team will be in contact about the next steps.

    Please use the reference number 250302/2478 or cite ‘Operation Fielder’.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More recreational hunting opportunities on offer

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Game bird hunters can look forward to more hunting opportunities in the future, with the Government announcing three new commercial upland game preserves today. 
    The new upland game preserve areas are:

    Mangakahia (Whangārei) (359 ha)
    Lagoon Hill (southern Wairarapa) (653 ha) 
    Grange Hill (South Canterbury) (2481 ha)

    Each preserve area is on private land, with landowners providing pheasants for release and determining when their property will be open for hunting. 
    Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager says this announcement supports the Government’s commitment to make it easier for New Zealanders to hunt and fish.  
    “We want to support the growth of New Zealand businesses, which includes boosting opportunities for hunting. Commercial hunting business also provide local economic and employment benefits,” says Mr Meager.
    “Game preserves currently constitute a $7 million per year industry, employ about 40 people full-time, and provide recreational enjoyment for many people. We want to encourage opportunities to build on that.
    “This a simple but effective step towards our ambitious growth agenda for New Zealand, and I am looking forward to bagging a pheasant or two when the new preserves open.”
    Notes to editor:
    Game preserves are areas on private farmland where captive-bred pheasants are released and then hunted recreationally by paying clients. Under the Wildlife Act 1953, the Government needs to give permission for commercial upland game bird preserves to operate.
    New Zealand has 22 commercial game preserves, including the three announced today. 
    Upland game birds are birds other than waterfowl. Under current regulations, upland gamebird hunting is restricted to pheasants and red-legged partridges. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ must protest Israel’s latest ‘weasel out’ war crime cutting humanitarian aid, says PSNA

    Asia Pacific Report

    One of the leading Palestinian solidarity groups in Aotearoa New Zealand has demanded that the government condemn Israel’s cutting off of all humanitarian aid to Gaza.

    Israel announced its latest “humanitarian outrage” against the Palestinian people of Gaza as it tries to renegotiate the three-phased ceasefire agreement it signed with Hamas in January.

    “Israel is trying to weasel its way out of the agreement because it doesn’t want to negotiate stage two which requires it to withdraw its troops from Gaza,” said Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA) co-national chair John Minto.

    “Israel signed the ceasefire agreement and it must be forced to follow it through,” he said in a statement today.

    “Cutting off humanitarian aid is a blatant war crime and New Zealand must say so without equivocation.

    “Our government has been complicit with Israeli war crimes for the past 16 months and has previously refused to condemn Israel’s use of humanitarian aid as a weapon of war.

    “It’s time we got off our knees and stood up for international law and United Nations resolutions.”

    Violation of Geneva Conventions
    Meanwhile, a Democrat senator, Peter Welch (vermont), yesterday joined the global condemnation of the Israeli “weaponisation” of humanitarian aid.

    In a brief post on X, responding to Israel blocking the entry of all goods and supplies into Gaza, Senator Peter Welch, a Democrat from Vermont, simply said:

    In a brief message on X, Senator Welch said: “This is a violation of the Geneva Conventions.”

    UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has hailed the launch of the Berlin Initiative led by former peace negotiators Yossi Beilin and Hiba Husseini.

    In a statement, Guterres said the world must end this terrible war and lay the foundations for lasting peace, “one that ensures security for Israel, dignity and self-determination for the Palestinian people, and stability for the entire region”.

    This required a clear political framework for Gaza’s recovery and reconstruction, he said.

    “It requires immediate and irreversible steps towards a two-State solution — with Gaza and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, unified under a legitimate Palestinian authority, accepted and supported by the Palestinian people.

    “And it requires putting an end to occupation, settlement expansion and threats of annexation.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Auckland dean welcomes medical training places

    Source: University of Auckland

    Government announcements positive, says University of Auckland dean

    The government’s announcement today to fund more locally trained doctors and more places for graduate doctors in general practice is welcomed by the University of Auckland’s Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences dean Professor Warwick Bagg.
     
    Health Minister Hon Simeon Brown today announced an increase of 25 training places for doctors in the two existing medical schools and training opportunities in primary health for up to 50 New Zealand-trained graduate doctors. Yesterday, the Minister announced 100 clinical places for overseas-trained doctors to work in primary care
     
    Professor Bagg says the announcements recognise the urgent workforce needs of the health system.
     
    “Every New Zealander knows our health system is under strain, and we need a range of solutions to meet those needs. The announcements are excellent news. The University of Auckland looks forward to offering more places for students to study medicine.”

    The additional 25 places will raise the cap on second-year medical school enrolments at the universities of Auckland and Otago to 639 in 2026. The University has previously advised the government that the two universities can educate a further 120 doctors.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man charged with murder in Onerahi homicide investigation

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A man has been charged with murder in the homicide investigation launched in Onerahi last week.

    A 63-year-old man has been charged with murder following the death of a woman at Beach Road Reserve on Thursday.

    At about 11.10am on 27 February, Police received a report of gunshots heard and a person injured.

    Upon arrival, Yvonne Chapman was located deceased at the scene and a man was found with serious injuries.

    Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Whangārei CIB says Police are not looking for anyone else in relation to the investigation.

    “We are pleased to have been able to arrest someone in relation to this tragic incident.

    “I would also like to thank those members of the public who provided information, which was crucial to this investigation.”

    The man charged is currently under Police guard at Auckland Hospital and had a bedside court hearing today.

    He has been remanded in custody to reappear in Whangārei District Court on 21 March.

    As the matter is now before the Court, Police are limited in providing further comment.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Appeal for information following possible sightings of missing man Travis Langford

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Waikato Police have confirmed the reported sightings of a man matching the description of missing man Travis Langford on Sunday were not him.

    Police received a number of reported sightings on Sunday, including State Highway 30, approximately 20-25km south of Te Kuiti.

    Police would like to thank the members of the public who contacted us following these reported sightings and encourage anyone who sees a person matching the description of Travis to report that to Police.

    It is also possible that Travis has travelled outside of the Waikato region since the time he was reported missing in January.

    If you have any information that could assist Police, please get in touch by calling 105 or online here.

    Please quote reference number 250119/4439.

    ENDS

    Statement from Angela Grocott, mother of Travis

    Please make contact with me Travis, just a quick text message or phone call that you are safe and are okay. You are so missed by your brothers, Dad and I, Zeus and our entire whānau.

    Our hearts are heavy. We don’t have the words to express how much you are loved and how much you complete our lives.

    Please come home son. We love you.

    Note for media:

    The family are requesting privacy at this time and do not wish to speak to media and request that anyone with information about the whereabouts of Travis contact police.

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Immerse yourself in nature with these epic Auckland running and hiking tracks

    Source: Auckland Council

    As the weather gets colder but not too cold, it’s the perfect time to get in some outdoor hiking and running adventures across the Auckland region. Check out these epic Auckland tracks and immerse yourself in nature while getting a vigorous work out – take in the scenic views, fresh air and enjoy the wonders of Tāmaki Makaurau. 

    Coast to Coast Walk – Waitematā to the Manukau Harbour 

    The Coast to Coast walk is a 16km hike across Auckland from Waitematā to the Manukau Harbour, ending in Onehunga. This scenic track takes you through landscapes shaped by the Auckland volcanic field and 600 years of Māori heritage, offering panoramic views along the way.  

    The trail can be split into three easy parts, or those keen on a challenge can tackle all three in one day: 

    Enjoy the views of nature with this scenic path from Cornwall Park to Manukau Harbour.

    Bird lovers be prepared to encounter native birds along the way, from iridescent blue kingfishers (kotare), fantail (pīwakawaka), tūi and the wood pigeon (kererū). Other bird species that might be hanging about are the sparrow, blackbird, thrush, and rock pigeon.  

    Watercare’s Coastal Walkway - South Auckland 

    Another path that takes in the sights along the foreshore of the Manukau Harbour is the Māngere Foreshore Path – a 14km walkway that starts at Ambury Regional Park and takes you alongside the coast, where you’ll encounter several examples of volcanic activity, including remnants of lava flows running into the harbour and the Māngere Lagoon explosion crater. 

    A quarter of the national wading bird population can be found in the Manukau Harbour at any given time; keep an eye out for eastern bar-tailed godwit, pied oyster catcher, banded dotterel and a range of other birds you may spot along the way.  Not to mention the many farm animals you’ll encounter as you make your way past Ambury Regional Park during your hike – perfect for an outing with whānau. 

    Don’t miss out on the chance to see the lambs at Ambury Regional Park.

    Arataki Visitor Centre & Loop Track – Waitakere Ranges 

    This is a family friendly, scenic 6km loop walk that combines three trails, the Beveridge Track, Pipeline Road and Slip Track. Don’t forget to check out the magnificent Arataki Visitor Centre, otherwise known as the gateway to the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park, before or after your walk and make the most of the exhibitions and nature activities on offer, as well as a wonderful gift shop selling locally made goods.  

    Walk or run through lush native bush, with stunning views along the way; spot native wildlife like tūi, kererū and pīwakawaka. Whether you’re after a breath of fresh air and a leisurely walk or a fitness challenge, the Arataki Loop Track is a fantastic way to explore the Waitākere Ranges. 

    Come visit Arataki Visitor Centre in the heart of the Waitākere Ranges.

    Te Ara Hura - Waiheke Island 

    For a unique way to actively explore Waiheke Island, check out Te Ara Hura. This track network spans 100km and gives adventurers access to Waiheke’s stunning coastlines, native bush and historic sites.  

    The great thing about Te Ara Hura is that you can customise your experience, depending on what you’re after. Choose between a day trip or a multi-day adventure -there’s a great range of tracks from short and easy through to the more challenging. You can also build your workout around overnight stays, tastings or great meals at vineyards and cafes. Simply follow the Te Ara Hura marker posts to stay on the trail and enjoy! 

    Te Ara Hura includes some of the best views on Waiheke Island, including Island Bay.

    Protect our kauri 

    Kauri dieback in Auckland is a serious problem and it’s important we all play our part to prevent the spread of the disease. 

    If you enter or leave a forest/area with native trees anywhere across the region, here are three easy steps you need to remember: 

    For more information about Kauri Dieback, visit Kauri Protection for more information.

    Always check the Auckland Council kauri webpage before going for a walk to find out what tracks are currently closed.  

    Be mindful of the threat of Kauri Dieback when traveling through tracks like Karamatura Track.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Closer look at Auckland’s pools welcomed by councillors

    Source: Auckland Council

    Councillors welcomed a closer look into Auckland’s swimming pool network at February’s Policy and Planning Committee. 

    A review of current and future demand for public pools and aquatic services across Tāmaki Makaurau was presented to Auckland’s elected members for discussion. 

    Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the Policy and Planning Committee, said the review is currently in its early stages, and will help develop a long-term plan for the provision of pools across Auckland in the future. 

    “Our pools are very popular with Aucklanders – with over 8 million visits to pool and leisure centres each year, they are some of our most used facilities. Providing leisure opportunities is important, but it’s not just about recreation. Learning to swim is an incredibly valuable life skill and Aucklanders should be able to access safe, local facilities to do this. 

    “We are now looking to put together a plan for the next 30 years so there are pools for Aucklanders to access across the region as it grows,” he said.  

    The review outlines where public pools are currently available to Aucklanders, and where there are gaps that need to be addressed in the future to meet the needs of the region’s growing population.   

    Deputy chair of the committee, Angela Dalton, who also chairs the Community Committee, welcomes the review and a refreshed approach to grow a network of pools across Auckland.  

    “This review will help us create a plan for fair and equitable access to pools across the region, as our population increases, and so Aucklanders can access safe and enjoyable facilities near to where they live.  

    “There is still plenty of work to be done and decisions to be made on funding and locations. But at this stage, it’s great to be looking at how we can improve and make the most of our pools.” 

    Next steps 

    Council staff will use the information from the review to put together a business case to present back to councillors early in 2026. 

    Did you know?  

    Access to Auckland Council’s public pools is free for young people aged 16 and under. Read more here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Updated – Wellington Water Committee Statement

    Source: Porirua City Council


    Please note meeting time, now 3pm
    [Statement issued on behalf of Wellington City, Porirua City, Hutt City, Upper Hutt City and Greater Wellington Regional Councils.]
    Today representatives of the shareholding councils of Wellington Water Limited (WWL), along with iwi leaders, met to discuss the implications of WWL efficiency and value for money reports for water reform.
    All members of the Wellington Water Committee agree that it is utterly unacceptable that the operations and maintenance costs incurred by Wellington Water do not represent good value for ratepayer money. Members unreservedly apologise to the people of the Wellington region for the high costs identified and the failure to provide oversight on appropriate practices and organisational culture to ensure competitively priced services.
    “The impact on our communities is simply intolerable and it cannot continue,” said Councillor Ros Connelly, Acting Chair of the Wellington Water Committee. “We will be urgently convening a meeting of the WWL Committee where the reports, implications and response can be confirmed, and we will ensure clear accountability going forward.”
    All those in attendance reconfirmed a commitment to the need for water reform and for Wellington Water Limited to develop a robust transition plan so that a new entity can start off on the right footing.
    “As part of the transition planning, further work will be done to test the cost assumptions being used to inform planning for the new water organisation. These assumptions must be robust and reliable in preparation for our water services delivery plan being submitted by 3 September 2025,” Connelly said.
    The Extraordinary Wellington Water Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday at 3pm. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Risk and Natural Disasters – Underwater canyon seafloor study reveals landslide and tsunami risk

    Source: NIWA

    The risk of undersea landslides and their potential to cause tsunamis along New Zealand’s east coast is being investigated by scientists aboard the German research vessel RV Sonne as part of a month-long international collaboration.
    Researchers from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) and GNS Science are examining underwater canyons alongside colleagues from German institutions GEOMAR and Kiel University on the deep ocean research vessel.
    By surveying, mapping and sampling two different areas off the Wairarapa and Canterbury coasts which have previously experienced huge landslides, they hope to better understand the hazard and risk potential of large underwater canyons, says NIWA marine geoscientist Dr Joshu Mountjoy.
    “Future undersea landslides could trigger tsunamis as well as impact seafloor infrastructure. If these landslides happened again, we know they could cause devastating tsunamis. What we are trying to understand is where and when they might occur in the future.”
    To better understand what lies beneath the ocean, they are mapping the seafloor using RV Sonne’s multi-beam sonar to create contour maps and using seismic surveying, as well as collecting core samples from the seafloor to reveal the age and when landslides previously occurred.
    Surveying and mapping will provide insights into the structure and geological formations below the seabed says GNS Science Computational Geophysicist Christof Mueller. “It is like a CAT scan of the Earth, with seismic surveying penetrating deep into the crust to map geological structures, while acoustic mapping maps shallower features like the seafloor depth and topography with greater detail. Sediment cores and geophysical data will be analysed to reveal the layers, because we are interested in the mechanical strength of the sediments and rocks and how they respond to earthquake motions.”
    While the ocean floor covers more than 70 per cent of the planet’s surface, it isn’t flat or unchanging as some people assume, he says. “Like dry land, the seafloor has rugged mountains, long valleys, flat plains, steep-sided canyons and exposed rock. Covered in layers of marine sediments, it is a dynamic place continually changing. The ocean is roughly four times deeper than land is high.”
    The distance from the sea surface to the seafloor makes deep canyons difficult to explore, along with the lack of light, cold temperatures, and high pressure, says Mountjoy. “From these extensive surveys, and analysis of the sediment cores, we hope to uncover the secrets of underwater landslides – how and where they form, when they last occurred and their frequency and magnitude, and their potential to trigger tsunamis. While we are studying two canyons less than 200km apart, they have contrasting geology, so we’ll be able to directly compare underwater canyons on active and passive continental slopes. In the Palliser Canyon study area, south of Cape Palliser in Wairarapa, the Pacific Plate moves beneath the Australian Plate, the geology is dominated by rock and earthquakes occur regularly. In the Pegasus Canyon study area, north-east of Banks Peninsula, the geology is dominated by softer sediments and earthquakes are less frequent. These factors should have a big influence on how and where landslides occur.”
    He says the research aims to look at the past to understand future possibilities. “We often don’t know what causes individual undersea landslides, but we do know that some of these are vast, greater than 5 cubic kilometres in size, and can potentially generate tsunami waves up to 5 m high. What we don’t know is how often and what controls these landslides. So the outstanding science challenge is to identify what causes the big ones. This improved understanding will better position New Zealand to be one step ahead, as data will allow for better community resilience and protection of our national infrastructure and assets which keep New Zealand moving.”
    The current 2025 voyage of the RV Sonne highlights collaboration between New Zealand research organisations, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel (GEOMAR) and Kiel University, Germany, which spans more than 30 years. The 116m-long RV Sonne has worked for much of its life as a platform for scientific research around the Pacific Ocean.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Christchurch Police crack down on antisocial road user behaviour

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Canterbury Police issued 179 infringements over the weekend as we responded to antisocial road user behaviour in the district.

    As predicted, the car enthusiast event was incredibly well-run with limited complaints or issues, the event organisers maintained a good line of communication with Police over the course of the weekend.

    The issues arose following the event, with a small number of attendees, and many who just came for the activity post-event, deciding to engage in dangerous driving behaviour on our roads.

    Police made it clear over the three nights, this activity would not be tolerated as we responded to unofficial ‘meets’ and antisocial road user activity as it arose.

    Over the course of the weekend, a total of 179 infringements were issued, 6 vehicles were impounded, and 44 vehicles – deemed not to be road worthy – were ordered off the road.

    Alongside this, one person was arrested for a warrant to arrest, 10 drivers were served licence suspension notices, six drivers were forbidden to drive for their offending on the night, and three drivers were processed for excess breath alcohol.

    Police also collected information over the course of the weekend which will be used for future enforcement action.

    Canterbury Police would like to thank the members of the public that reported unlawful driving behaviour throughout the weekend.

    Anyone who witnesses any antisocial driving behaviour is urged to contact Police on 111 with as much information as they can safely gather.

    Information can also be provided for non-emergencies online at 105.police.govt.nz clicking “Make a Report” or by calling 105.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More locally trained doctors in primary care

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced further initiatives as part of a package to tackle shortages in general practice and improve access to primary care and health outcomes.

    “I am focused on ensuring Kiwis have better access to primary care services, and strengthening our health workforce is a key part of that,” Mr Brown says.

    “Today I am announcing:
     

    • An increase in the number of training placements for doctors at medical schools by a further 25 each year.
       
    • Up to 50 New Zealand-trained graduate doctors a year to train in primary care settings. 
       

    “We can’t just rely on sourcing our doctors from overseas – we must ensure a sustainable pipeline of New Zealand-trained doctors.

    “As part of our plan, we will fund more Kiwis to train as doctors by boosting the number of placements at medical schools by a further 25 each year.

    “During the term of this Government, medical school placements have already increased by 75 places each year. This additional funding will bring the total of extra places to 100, seeing the cap on first-year medical school enrolments increased to 639 annually from 2026.

    “We need to make investments now to grow this important workforce, so that New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare – now, and in the future.

    “This boost delivers on our commitment to train more talented, local students.”

    The additional places will be allocated across the University of Auckland and the University of Otago, beginning in 2026. 

    “We are also ramping up the number of trainee GPs to give Kiwis better access to healthcare in their communities,” Mr Brown says.

    “New Zealand has a shortage of family doctors, who play an important role in helping Kiwis to stay well and out of emergency departments.

    “Providing opportunities for graduate doctors to receive clinical supervision and gain registration in a primary care environment is part of our plan to increase GP numbers.

    “This initiative will allocate $23.3 million over four years to introduce a funded primary care pathway to registration for New Zealand-trained graduate doctors. The majority of time will be spent in primary care providers, instead of hospitals.

    “Talented graduate doctors who have an interest in primary care will be given an early opportunity to pursue that interest, working in communities right across the country.

    “Funding will support up to 50 New Zealand-trained graduate doctors into these primary care settings each year from 2026.

    “A stronger health workforce that we can retain is critical to achieving our goal of ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare.

    “These initiatives are the latest in a series to improve access to primary care and ensure New Zealanders can see their doctor, faster.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Te Aka Raataa: Regenerating Te Puhinui for a Greener Future

    Source: Auckland Council

    A major transformation is underway for Te Puhinui / Puhinui Stream, with Te Aka Raataa Stage 1 leading the charge to regenerate the mauri of this vital waterway and its surrounding communities.

    A Healthier Future for Manukau

    After years of declining water quality and environmental degradation, Te Aka Raataa is breathing new life into the stream and surrounding areas. This initiative reconnects people with nature, ensuring a healthier future for Manukau.

    As part of the Eke Panuku Transform Manukau regeneration programme, this project will revitalise Rata Vine Stream Reserve, creating green spaces that connect communities and link to the town centre, Hayman Park, and beyond.

    Councillor Daniel Newman is a strong advocate for seeing this investment in the south.

    “At its heart this project is about the health of urban streams and waterways, and how they relate to the neighbours and the surrounding community.” 

    “I am proud to have been able to help secure the budgets necessary to deliver these projects, and I know we can make a meaningful difference to the Puhinui Stream.

    My thanks to all of the staff and the contractors who are working on the front line to deliver a successful project, “says Councillor Daniel Newman.

    Also representing the Manurewa-Papakura ward, Councillor Angela Dalton sees the project as positive place-shaping for Auckland’s south.

    “I’m wholeheartedly behind Te Aka Raataa Stage 1 because it’s about shaping a sustainable future for our communities. By regenerating the awa, we’re making meaningful strides for the future – improving water quality, creating green spaces for people to reconnect with nature and each other, and strengthening links to the Manukau area. This is a wonderful opportunity to build a healthier, more resilient community, and I’m proud to be part of it.”  

    Te Whakaoranga o Te Puhinui: A Bold Regeneration Plan

    Te Puhinui, a cherished ecological and cultural taonga, has long been disconnected from its surrounding communities. The launch of Te Aka Raataa Stage 1 marks a significant milestone—an ambitious collaboration aimed at regenerating this natural treasure while transforming Manukau into a greener, more connected city.

    Grounded in mātauranga Māori, the initiative places iwi leadership at its heart, ensuring that the regeneration of Te Puhinui benefits future generations. Te Whakaoranga o Te Puhinui sets out a long-term vision for intergenerational well-being, emphasising the profound connections between people, place, and nature. This initiative is a key part of the broader Transform Manukau programme.

    Eke Panuku Priority Location Director, Richard Davison, says “This marks an exciting milestone in a project that has been years in the making as part of the Transform Manukau programme. Te Aka Raataa Stage 1 is about more than just regenerating a stream—it’s about reconnecting people with nature and strengthening community ties.

    “This first stage moves us closer to the vision of a continuous link from the Botanic Gardens to Hayman Park and Manukau city centre, creating a vibrant accessible pathway through a revitalised green space that everyone can enjoy, while also supporting new housing development in the area.”

    A Collaborative Effort for Lasting Change

    Bringing together Eke Panuku, Healthy Waters & Flood Resilience, Ngaati Tamaoho, Te Ākitai Waiohua, Ngaati Te Ata Waiohua, and the Manurewa Local Board, this project is a shared commitment to restoring the health of the Puhinui catchment and its people.  By restoring the stream to a more natural state, Eke Panuku and Auckland Council aim to improve water quality, support biodiversity, and create a healthier, more attractive and resilient environment for both people and wildlife.

    Local Board Chair Matt Winiata acknowledges the collaboration with iwi and wider community groups that have progressed this important kaupapa.

    “Undertaking a project like this would not be possible without the time, skill and mātauranga knowledge of our community.

    “Stage 1 is an exciting time for residents who live near the awa, the long-term benefits of a revitalised Puhinui Stream will be felt for generations to come.” 

    Project Benefits

    Awa-First approach: We’re helping the stream flow more like it used to by bringing back its natural state to improve its flow. By adding planting and wetlands, we’ll help protect the banks from washing away and improve the water quality.

    Revitalising green spaces: providing quality open spaces for people to relax, gather, learn and play.

    Connecting people to nature: Providing better community access to the stream with new boardwalks and improving connections with wider pathways for walking and cycling

    Supporting native wildlife: Creating healthy habitats for birds, insects, and aquatic life.

    This is just the beginning – Te Aka Raataa is laying the foundation for a greener, healthier Manukau, where both people and nature thrive together.  Works are scheduled to be completed by December 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Wellington Water Committee statement

    Source: Porirua City Council

    [Statement issued on behalf of Wellington City, Porirua City, Hutt City, Upper Hutt City and Greater Wellington Regional Councils.]  
    Today representatives of the shareholding councils of Wellington Water Limited (WWL), along with iwi leaders, met to discuss the implications of WWL efficiency and value for money reports for water reform.
    All members of the Wellington Water Committee agree that it is utterly unacceptable that the operations and maintenance costs incurred by Wellington Water do not represent good value for ratepayer money. Members unreservedly apologise to the people of the Wellington region for the high costs identified and the failure to provide oversight on appropriate practices and organisational culture to ensure competitively priced services.
    “The impact on our communities is simply intolerable and it cannot continue,” said Councillor Ros Connelly, Acting Chair of the Wellington Water Committee. “We will be urgently convening a meeting of the WWL Committee where the reports, implications and response can be confirmed, and we will ensure clear accountability going forward.”
    All those in attendance reconfirmed a commitment to the need for water reform and for Wellington Water Limited to develop a robust transition plan so that a new entity can start off on the right footing.
    “As part of the transition planning, further work will be done to test the cost assumptions being used to inform planning for the new water organisation. These assumptions must be robust and reliable in preparation for our water services delivery plan being submitted by 3 September 2025,” Connelly said.
    The Extraordinary Wellington Water Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday at 3.30pm. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UPDATED: Primary care funding a positive step in the right direction, says College of GPs

    Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

    This statement has been updated to reflect the Minister’s latest announcement made at 1pm today. The updated text is bolded–
    The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners has welcomed the Health Minister’s funding announcement saying it is a big step in the right direction towards building a well-resourced and sustainable primary care workforce.
    Increased investment in primary care has long been at the forefront of our members’ concerns and the College’s advocacy work, particularly improving access to GP, rural hospital and primary care services and growing, and retaining, the workforce.
    College President Dr Samantha Murton says, “Any additional funding for primary care will ultimately benefit our patients and improve health outcomes, and as specialist GPs and rural hospital doctors who work in the community, this is our priority.
    “As we know there are many areas in primary care that need permanent solutions and further investment, and the Minister has shown that he is willing to invest broadly. I hope that by incentivising primary care to nursing graduates they will see the value in what our workforce does and choose to stay in it for the long-term. This will help alleviate nursing workforce challenges especially in rural communities. Pay parity between primary and secondary nursing is what we still need to aim for.
    “Providing timely and accessible care for all New Zealanders and the increased availability of telehealth will be beneficial, but it needs to be offered alongside improved support for face-to-face primary care services to ensure continued patient safety. Telehealth fills a niche, not a void,” says Dr Murton.
    College Chief Executive Toby Beaglehole says, “Enabling more overseas doctors to gain general registration in primary care in New Zealand and gain valuable first-hand experience will boost the workforce pipeline. That said, we cannot take our focus off supporting our homegrown workforce. New Zealand needs to attract and retain 300 general practice registrars per year just to maintain GP numbers and investment in the training programme is critical to this.
    “The Minister’s latest announcement to increase our homegrown workforce is welcomed by the College. These medical graduates who choose to train in primary care will see firsthand just how important and impactful continuity of care can be at a community level and, we hope they follow the rewarding pathway of becoming a specialist GP.
    “Additional support will also be needed for our current specialist GPs who will be supervising these graduates on top of their already busy workloads.
    “Investment in strong, future focused and sustainable primary care will reduce the pressure on secondary care. We look forward to further engagement with Minister Brown on lasting solutions that increase access to specialist general practitioners for New Zealanders and thank him sincerely for the steps he has announced.
    “The College is pleased to see our ongoing advocacy has been reflected in the Minister’s decisions and we look forward to learning the specifics of this additional funding.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police seek witnesses to fatal Woodville crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Sergeant Joe Salisbury:

    Police investigating a fatal crash near Woodville yesterday are seeking dashcam footage from the public.

    The crash happened on Saddle Road about 11am on Monday 3 March, when a green-coloured truck overturned and hit a white Ford Transit van travelling in the opposite direction.

    The driver of the van sadly died at the scene, while a passenger in the van was physically unharmed.  The truck driver also received injuries and had to be cut from the vehicle. Police are providing support to those involved, and the family of the deceased. 

    The investigation into the cause of the crash will likely take some time, but we hope motorists or members of the public may have information that can help. We would like to hear from any motorists who have dashcam footage from that section of road around the time of the crash, or anyone who witnessed it.

    If you have any information that could help our enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 250303/5741.

    While the investigation is ongoing, we are unable to comment further at this time.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The Week the World Changed

    Source: ACT Party

    The Haps

    Parliament didn’t sit last week, so your property was safe. ACT’s MPs were out, including at the Northland Field Days, Auckland’s Round the Bays, and holding public meetings as far south as Invercargill. This Thursday David Seymour and Todd Stephenson are holding a public meeting in Queenstown, details here, and on Friday Simon Court is in Hokitika, details here.

    The Week the World Changed

    Lots changed last week, or at least long-telegraphed changes were spelled out more in neon lights than dots and dashes. New Zealand’s insularity is famous, if there was a nuclear war in Europe the Herald would still lead with Auckland property prices, or whether the All Blacks will be free-to-air.

    Insularity is all fine, most of the world is a hellhole most of the time anyway. But insularity can’t protect us from all hells, and some of them have got closer in the last week.

    The protection we’ve had from the seas and friendly navies is ebbing away, even though we’ve relied on it since humans arrived here.

    Part I: Nobody else could get here.

    Part II: Only the British could get here.

    Part III: Only the Americans could get here.

    Depending on your perspective, the British part might be a mixed blessing, but on the whole we’ve built one of the most successful societies in history with little care for our security.

    If that changes, we’re going to have very different things to think and worry about. We’ll have to think about confronting others who want to dominate and perhaps kill us for the first time in generations. Even the Herald will need to sharpen up.

    The Trump-Zelensky-Vance conflagration was extraordinary. Trump is elected and the U.S. is a sovereign nation. They can act however they like, so we’re not passing judgement. We’re just trying to think through what it means for our sovereign nation. We don’t think there’s enough public debate about this to be ready for the world we’re entering.

    After World War I the U.S. went isolationist, when World War II began the German Army was ten times larger than theirs. By the time they had U-Boats off the Eastern seaboard and planes bombing Hawaii, they were arming up again.

    After World War II they decided to keep policing the world. It led to an extraordinary period of peace and prosperity (maybe it will be known as the second Elizabethan era, after QEII). Now the Americans are out of that game again. The Oval Office conflagration was perhaps just the neon-lit spelling out of something that’s been coming a long time.

    Add that together with the Chinese ‘taskforce’ of three ships (and one sub?). It was not extraordinary, it just hasn’t happened here for a couple of generations. Ships that could easily rain down munitions on New Zealand cities, with there being little we can do about it, is a new thing to living New Zealanders. Perhaps nuclear-powered American ships weren’t that bad after all?

    The Cook Islands appear to be shifting their allegiance or at least trying to eat their cake and have it, too. Their comprehensive strategic partnership with the Chinese Government appears to open the Cooks up to Chinese investment and development, as well as resource extraction. It might allow a workforce of Chinese nationals in the Cooks that would give the Chinese Government reason to ‘protect’ them. That would be a crisis.

    From a defence and security point of view, the Cook’s gambit is a stationary version of the ships. The Chinese Government is asserting that the South Pacific is in their sphere of influence, and that’s a different proposition from the democratic British or Americans doing it.

    It all adds up to our country needing to change footing. Muldoon once said ‘New Zealanders will never vote on foreign affairs.’ We’ve been shielded, but as our shields ebb away, we will need to change our stance.

    A lot of questions become much clearer.

    Could we afford to ban oil and gas exploration?

    Could we afford to shut the country down for an extravagantly long time over COVID?

    Could we afford to create a binary state based on a false interpretation of the Treaty?

    The answer was always no, but now there is another reason why.

    The New Zealand project needs to sort its internal problems with a lot more maturity, so we can face up to external ones. Another reason why we cannot afford a Labour-Green-Te Pāti Māori fiasco, and why ACT must keep the alternative Government bold.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Transport – EMA backs congestion charging as Auckland’s traffic woes worsen

    Source: EMA

    The release today of a study on congestion in Auckland adds to the urgency around the introduction of time of use charging, says the Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA).
    Auckland’s Cost of Congestion white paper, released by Mayor Wayne Brown, found congestion will cost Auckland $2.6 billion a year by 2026 – factoring in the cost of lost time, as well as impacts like reduced business investment and consumer spending.
    EMA Head of Advocacy Alan McDonald says there finally seems to be the political will to implement time of use charging in New Zealand’s largest city.
    The government’s Time of Use Charging Bill will be read in Parliament this month, and Auckland’s Mayor has come out strongly in support.
    “The EMA has long advocated for time of use charging as it will help maximise the use of existing motorway and arterial corridors around the slowly choking greater city area,” says McDonald.
    “The EMA commissioned NZIER to conduct a similar survey in 2019, which put the cost of congestion to Auckland’s economy at up to $1.3 billion annually.
    “Things have clearly gotten worse.
    “The local traffic modelling in the new report shows Aucklanders now sit in traffic for 29 million hours a year.
    “Congestion charging is intended to reduce this traffic and introduce more certainty into travel times on our roading network, but it will also improve air quality and help to fund public transport.
    “This means that allowing businesses and tradespeople who need their vehicles to effectively deliver goods and services around the city will have flow-on effects.
    “There are also social benefits for residents who need their vehicles to make doctor’s appointments or drop kids at sport practices.
    “Moves to charge commuters who travel at peak times will encourage many to use public transport and help the city derive maximum benefit from the City Rail Link when it comes online in early 2026.”
    In central London, congestion charging was introduced in 2003 and has helped cut traffic by around 15%.
    In Stockholm, where congestion charging was introduced in 2007, it has reduced traffic within the city centre by about 20%.
    “Congestion charging has been shown to work around the world and the case for implementing it in Auckland grows by the day,” says McDonald.
    “It’s time to put a solid case to residents that time of use charging has social as well as business benefits.
    “It needs to be done right, but it also needs to be done with some urgency if we are going to unlock productivity in New Zealand.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –