NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-Evening Report: Cook Islands needs to ‘stand on our own two feet,’ says Brown – wins confidence vote

    RNZ Pacific

    Prime Minister Mark Brown has survived a motion in the Cook Islands Parliament aimed at ousting his government, the second Pacific Island leader to face a no-confidence vote this week.

    In a vote yesterday afternoon (Tuesday, Cook Islands time), the man who has been at the centre of controversy in the past few weeks, defeated the motion by 13 votes to 9. Two government ministers were absent for the vote.

    The motion was put forward by the opposition MP Teariki Heather, the leader of the Cook Islands United Party.

    Ahead of the vote, Heather acknowledged that Brown had majority support in Parliament.

    However, he said he was moving the motion on principle after recent decisions by Brown, including a proposal to create a Cook Islands passport and shunning New Zealand from deals it made with China, which has divided Cook Islanders.

    “These are the merits that I am presenting before this House. We have the support of our people and those living outside the country, and so it is my challenge. Where do you stand in this House?” Heather said.

    Brown said his country has been so successful in its development in recent years that it graduated to first world status in 2020.

    ‘Engage on equal footing’
    “We need to stand on our own two feet, and we need to engage with our partners on an equal footing,” he said.

    “Economic and financial independence must come first before political independence, and that was what I discussed and made clear when I met with the New Zealand prime minister and deputy prime minister in Wellington in November.”

    Brown said the issues Cook Islanders faced today were not just about passports and agreements but about Cook Islands expressing its self-determination.

    “This is not about consultation. This is about control.”

    “We cannot compete with New Zealand. When their one-sided messaging is so compelling that even our opposition members will be swayed.

    “We never once talked to the New Zealand government about cutting our ties with New Zealand but the message our people received was that we were cutting our ties with New Zealand.

    “We have been discussing the comprehensive partnership with New Zealand for months. But the messaging that got out is that we have not consulted.

    ‘We are not a child’
    “We are a partner in the relationship with New Zealand. We are not a child.”

    He said the motion of no confidence had been built on misinformation to the extent that the mover of the motion has stated publicly that he was moving this motion in support of New Zealand.

    “The influence of New Zealand in this motion of no confidence should be of concern to all Cook Islands who value . . . who value our country.

    “My job is not to fly the New Zealand flag. My job is to fly my own country’s flag.”

    Last week, hundreds of Cook Islanders opposing Brown’s political decisions rallied in Avarua, demanding that he step down for damaging the relationship between Aotearoa and Cook Islands.

    The Cook Islands is a self-governing state in free association with New Zealand. It is part of the Realm of New Zealand, sharing the same Head of State.

    This year, the island marks its 60th year of self-governance.

    According to Cook Islands 2021 Census, its population is less than 15,000.

    New Zealand remains the largest home to the Cook Islands community, with over 80,000 Cook Islands Māori, while about 28,000 live in Australia.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New disability data provides crucial insights

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Data from Stats NZ’s Household Disability Survey released today provides crucial insights into the New Zealand disability community and its people, Disability Issues Minister Louise Upston says.

    Today’s survey data, collected following the 2023 Census, identifies 1 in 6 New Zealanders as disabled – that’s around 10 per cent of children (98,000) and 18 per cent of adults (753,000).

    “It’s the first time in more than 10 years there has been access to updated disability data on this scale,” Louise Upston says.

    “The survey provides a comprehensive source of information about the lives and experiences of disabled New Zealanders, the barriers they can encounter and the changes needed to overcome those barriers.

    “One such barrier is the number of disabled people not working and that three quarters of those people want to be working.

    “That means getting more employment opportunities for disabled people has to be a key priority, driven by survey findings from the community itself.

    “In another example, disability access issues continue to be raised and we need to look at why they remain so persistent.

    “Having this up-to-date data is absolutely crucial for understanding the disabled community and its needs. It can then inform decision makers, businesses, service providers and communities across the country.

    “While progress has been made, we know there is more work to do.

    “Our Government is committed to supporting disabled people, which is why we provided a record $1.1 billion funding boost to disability support services in this year’s Budget.

    “Whaikaha as a standalone ministry can focus its efforts on improving the lives of the 1 in 6 New Zealanders with a disability.

    “This survey informs Whaikaha’s work programme, and actions we need to take across government, business and community to improve the lives of disabled New Zealanders,” Louise Upston says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Interim Report: increased capital investment in Auckland

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council’s Interim Report shows the group invested significantly to strengthen the physical resilience of Auckland and manage growth, while meeting its financial targets.

    The council delivered $1.9 billon of capital investment in the six months to December 2024 – a record for a six-month period and an increase of $474 million on the six months to the end of December 2023.

    In line with Auckland Council’s Long-term Plan 2024-2034, this investment was prioritised in transport, water and enabling local boards to better respond to the needs of their communities.

    Auckland Council group chief financial officer Ross Tucker said the Interim Report highlights the increased investment in the region’s infrastructure likes roads, pipes and stormwater assets.

    “Of the total capital invested in the six months, 38 per cent has been invested in roading and public transport – $727 million to improve our region’s roads, buses and trains, such as the City Rail Link project,” says Mr Tucker.

    “Another 29 per cent – or over $552 million – has been invested into Auckland’s water supply, wastewater and stormwater, delivering new and improved infrastructure that improves existing services and will support Aucklanders for generations to come.

    “We’ve also prioritised the buy-out of category three properties, spending $392 million on close to 400 properties that had an intolerable risk to life. We know the risk category three buy-outs are higher than originally anticipated, however it is being closely and carefully managed as part of making Auckland a more resilient region.”

    The buyout funding includes a 50-50 agreement between Auckland Council and central government, secured in October 2023.

    Major projects delivered

    In its first six months, the council delivered a number of major projects in Auckland, both in communities and with region-wide benefits.

    These include the Central Interceptor reaching the three-quarter completion mark, refitting a fourth low emission ferry vessel and getting it into operation, and continued progress on the City Rail Link with overhead line equipment and switch rooms commissioned at Britomart.

    “Our half year results are in line with expectations. We are getting on with delivering the physical and financial resilience we planned, while ensuring value for Aucklanders.”

    This includes progress on the Auckland Future Fund. In December 2024, the fund sold Auckland Council’s remaining shares in Auckland International Airport Limited for $1.32 billion.

    The fund will use the sale proceeds to diversify the council’s major financial investments across different sectors and geographic regions, with expected stronger annual returns to council to help fund services and infrastructure.

    The full Interim Report is available via the main Auckland Council website. 

    Auckland Council Group highlights – six months to December 2024

    • Operating revenue increased 15 percent to $5.4 billion, compared to the six months to 31 December 2023. This includes revenue to pay for the services we provide and invest in maintaining and renewing our assets.

    • The operating surplus was $2 billion, an increase on $571 million in 2023.

    • The group’s capital investment in infrastructure and community assets totalled $1.9 billion – 33 percent more than the prior period.

    • Net debt increased to $13.2 billion, from $12.3 billion in June 2024. This increased debt was primarily used to fund investment in new assets, spreading the cost of these assets over the generations that will use them.

    Key capital highlights include:

    • Providing funding, alongside the Crown, to City Rail Link Limited which continued work on New Zealand’s largest infrastructure project. One of the significant milestones was achieving permanent power to the stations’ high voltage rooms and main switchboards.

    • Bringing the Pukekohe Water Treatment Plant back into service after it was damaged in the 2023 severe weather events which enabled the community to increase water usage by six million litres a day at a time when water demand is at its peak.

    • Achievement of a major milestone on the Central Interceptor project, with Hiwa-i-te-Rangi Tunnel Boring Machine breaking through into a shaft in Western Springs, which enabled a tunnel to be built which collects wastewater and stormwater overflows from Mount Albert.

    • Significant progress made on the Eastern Busway project with the completion of the new bus station at Botany Town Centre

    • Completion of the Port of Auckland Outfall Upgrade project which improves the stormwater network and mitigates significant flooding risk at Britomart

    • Construction and renewal of many local and regional parks, sporting and leisure facilities such as refurbishment of Te Pae o Kura – Kelston Community Centre and renewal of Windmill Park with upgraded kiosk space, toilet facilities, a first aid room and storage.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Going for Growth: Multi-million dollar benefits possible for farmers and growers

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Regulation Minister David Seymour, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds and Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard have today released the Ministry for Regulation’s recommendations to cut red tape on products used by the agriculture and horticulture sectors.
    “HSNO and ACVM products used to manage animals and plants like veterinary medicines and agrichemicals are absolutely critical for farmers and growers. Technological developments in these products can be the difference between surviving, or thriving,” Mr Seymour says. 
    “Some farmers and growers told us they had waited over five years for their applications for new products to be approved by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). That’s completely unacceptable and it’s costing the economy millions in lost productivity.
    “The Government is cutting red tape to ensure farmers and growers can quickly access the high-quality products they need so we can grow the economy.
    “Faster access to new products for farmers and growers will lift primary sector productivity and growth.
    “The review found that halving approval times for new products is estimated to generate benefits of $272 million over 20 years for New Zealand farmers and growers. 
    “Cabinet has accepted all 16 recommendations, including:

    Setting targets to accelerate assessments and reduce application queues
    Increasing the use of HSNO rapid pathways, ACVM registration exemptions and self-assessments for appropriate applications
    Reducing ACVM efficacy requirements for inhibitors to the minimum required to manage risk
    Using international regulators’ assessments to save time
    Exploring a strategic pathway for priority products 
    Updating EPA’s outdated risk assessment models.

    Minister for the Environment Penny Simmonds says the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has already been working to improve the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms (HSNO) system. 
    “This has included looking to appoint additional staff in the hazardous substances applications area, creating a prioritisation framework for the approval queue and developing new group standards for low-risk hazardous substances,” Minister Simmonds says.
    “These are good first steps to help achieve some of the review recommendations, and I expect improvements to continue at pace.”
    Minister for Food Safety Andrew Hoggard says the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) will be addressing review recommendations as part of a wider Agricultural Compounds and Veterinary Medicines (ACVM) Modernisation work programme.
    “Eight out of the 13 recommendations that are applicable to MPI are already in progress or can start now,” Minister Hoggard says.
    “MPI has been extremely proactive, working alongside the Ministry for Regulation to start work on the recommendations and I look forward to seeing further progress this year.”
    The Agricultural and Horticultural Products Regulatory Review ran from August to December 2024. The review was of the approval process for new agricultural and horticultural products and was triggered by concern that additional regulatory burden on these products was worsening New Zealand’s international competitiveness.  
    Notes to editors: 
    Agricultural and Horticultural Products Regulatory Review Report: https://www.regulation.govt.nz/assets/Publication-Documents/Agricultural-Horticultural-Products-Regulatory-Review-full-report.pdf
    Agricultural and Horticultural Products Regulatory Review Summary Report: https://www.regulation.govt.nz/assets/Publication-Documents/Agricultural-Horticultural-Products-Regulatory-Review-summary-report.pdf
    Agricultural and Horticultural Products Regulatory Review Summary of Engagement https://www.regulation.govt.nz/assets/Publication-Documents/Agricultural-Horticultural-Products-Regulatory-Review-summary-engagement.pdf
    Sense Partners Scenario analysis of economic impacts: https://www.regulation.govt.nz/assets/Publication-Documents/Agricultural-Horticultural-Products-Regulatory-Review-scenario-analysis.pdf
    Other information about the review can be found on the Ministry for Regulation’s website: Agricultural and horticultural products regulatory review | Ministry for Regulation cultural Products Regulatory Review – briefings to joint Ministers 
    All information can be found in the ‘Our publications’ section of the Ministry for Regulation’s website here: https://www.regulation.govt.nz/about-us/our-publications/
     
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Changes to SafePlus online self-assessment tool coming soon

    Source: Worksafe New Zealand

    From April there will be a new way of doing a SafePlus self-assessment.

    The current SafePlus online tool is at the end of its life and would require significant resource to rebuild.

    It is being replaced with downloadable questions – in multiple languages – that can be used much more flexibly as a paper-based survey or in any online survey tool (at the user’s cost).

    Registered users of the online tool have been contacted to let them know that no new assessments using the current tool can be started after 11 April 2025.

    Those who have run a previous assessment using the tool can access their data and reports until 12 June 2025. After 12 June 2025, the personal data put into the tool by users will be destroyed, to meet Privacy Act requirements.

    See our FAQs for more information(external link) including data export instructions. 

    From April the survey questions and a results calculator will be available to download from the SafePlus section of the WorkSafe website. Businesses can use the questions either as a paper-based survey, or in their own choice of online survey platform.

    They are the same questions currently used in the online tool. The questions were developed using the SafePlus framework. They focus on three key areas of health and safety – leadership, worker engagement, and risk management.

    Businesses can use their workers’ responses to the questions to calculate a SafePlus health and safety maturity rating in the three key areas, and they can repeat the survey to see their progress year on year.

    WorkSafe will not have access to the data. The questions and results calculator are downloadable files, so the business using them will save them in their own system. This means all data will remain with the business itself.

    Providing the survey questions for businesses to pick up and use means more flexibility to run their own surveys using their own choice of survey tool. The new way of providing the survey questions also means we can incorporate user-requested enhancements to provide a paper-based option for completing surveys and translation of the questions into multiple languages.

    The survey questions and results calculator will be free to use. However, WorkSafe will no longer provide the survey functionality, so if a business decides to use an online survey tool then that may have some cost to them to use.

    Onsite assessments by independent SafePlus assessors are also available.

    You can find out more on the SafePlus section of the WorkSafe website

    We aim to make it easy for businesses to do regular self-assessments of their health and safety environment to identify areas they can improve.

    We would like to thank everyone who has used the SafePlus online tool to help keep people healthy and safe at work.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Four-year term: a chance for a more mature democracy

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Leader David Seymour is welcoming the announcement that legislation enabling a four-year Parliamentary term will advance to select committee.

    The legislation is modelled on a draft Bill produced by ACT, and a commitment to advance it to select committee was secured in ACT’s coalition agreement.

    “Improving our approach to law making is how we secure more economic growth, better social services, better regulation, and ultimately give the next generation more reason to stay here,” says Seymour.

    “A four-year term will lead to more accountability and better law making, giving Kiwis more time to see whether political promises translate into results, so they can vote accordingly.

    “Polling shows more Kiwis support the four-year term than oppose it.

    “It’s important to point out that ACT’s proposal ensures the term can only be extended if the Government turns control of Select Committees over to the Opposition. This introduces balance by giving the Opposition more power to scrutinise and question Ministers, officials, and legislation.

    “ACT’s proposal means such a significant constitutional change will only come into effect with the consent of New Zealanders. If the legislation is supported by Parliament, it will then be subject to a public referendum.

    “I’m proud that ACT has started another tough conversation. We look forward to Kiwis having their say at select committee. Ultimately, we’re trying to achieve better law making a more mature democracy. That’s worth a constructive debate.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 27 February 2025 Accessible home brightens Lara’s life A move to an accessible Mosgiel home for Lara and daughter Amelia has meant they can finally live life the way they want.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    “I’ve gained my independence again. This house is just the best,” says Lara.

    After being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at 10 years old, Lara’s life has never been easy.

    The genetic disease, that causes a loss of muscle mass, has led to a slow deterioration in what Lara’s body allows her to do.

    “It started with a slow decline in my quality of life in my teens, but its impacts have sped up as I’ve got older. Eventually it’s progressed to the point where I now need a wheelchair to get around.

    “You go from living your life how you want, to not being able to do things for yourself anymore. It’s a massive mental hurdle to overcome,” Lara explains.

    As her condition has progressed, Lara and eight-year-old Amelia have found the way their home functions crucial to the way they can live.

    “In the past the homes we’ve lived in weren’t set up well for a wheelchair user. I wasn’t able to go outside and enjoy the backyard, as I couldn’t get my chair out the back door.

    “Even getting out the front door was an absolute mission without a ramp!” Lara quips.

    But last year things changed when Lara and Amelia, along with cats Flash, Storm and Rat Bag and dog Mischief, moved into an accessible Kāinga Ora home in Mosgiel.

    The home has a range of features that make it easy for Lara to safely move around, including level-entry access, wider doorways, open-plan living spaces and slip-resistant flooring in the bathroom and kitchen.

    Since moving in, Lara says her health has been easier to manage and she’s finding life’s day-to-day tasks a lot easier.

    “The accessible features like the level-entry and ramps have made a huge difference to our lives. It’s meant I can be more independent and rely on Amelia less.

    “We’ve found we can do more things together now I can get in and out of the house easily. We go out and enjoy our neighbourhood more.

    “I can even take the rubbish out myself and go outside to sit on the deck and enjoy the sun while Amelia plays with mischief in the backyard.

    “I know they’re little things to most people, but they’re big things for us. This home is just perfect for me and I couldn’t be more grateful for it,” says Lara.

    Page updated: 27 February 2025

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homicide investigation launched, Kawerau

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have launched a homicide investigation following the death of a man in Kawerau yesterday.

    Emergency services were called to the Onslow Street property around 8:45am yesterday, after a man was located deceased on the front doorstep of the address.

    A scene guard remains in place at the property while enquiries are carried out.

    If anyone has information that may assist, please contact Police via 105, either by calling or online, and reference file number 250226/5646.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further appeal for information about missing person, Geoffrey Kelly

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police working to locate missing person Geoffrey Kelly are urging members of the public to get in touch if they saw any unusual activity in the area of Hikimutu, since 20 February.

    Geoffrey’s car – pictured – was located at 7am on Friday 21 February in a ditch on Makokomiko Road, without any occupants.

    He was last seen on Thursday 20 February, wearing grey knee-length shorts, a tan sweatshirt and glasses, and it is believed he may have become disorientated and has either taken shelter somewhere or has gotten a lift from a passerby.

    Constable Mark Bolten says “Since then, Police have carried out a number of enquiries including extensive searches of the surrounding area with the assistance of a drone, Police Search and Rescue, Land Search and Rescue volunteers, local farmers and residents, and a private helicopter, however he has yet to be located.

    “Police and Geoffrey’s family have grave concerns for his welfare.

    “We are wanting to hear from anyone who was in the area of Makokomiko Road or its surrounding and saw any unusual activity.

    “Even the smallest piece of information could be the thing we need to assist in locating him,” says Constable Bolten.

    If you have any information that might help us locate Geoffrey, please call 105 and quote reference number 250222/1771.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Freedom camping certification extended

    Source: New Zealand Government

    There will be more time to get self-contained vehicles green-certified, with an extension of the transition period, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has announced.
    “This extension will be reassuring for people who enjoy freedom camping as a way to get off the beaten track and explore everything our beautiful country has to offer,” says Louise Upston.
    “Following public consultation, we’re extending the certification transition period for private self-contained vehicles out by a year to June 2026. Currently only 23,000 vehicles of the estimated 73,000 have been certified.
    “During consultation, individual freedom campers, certification authorities and vehicle inspectors voiced concerns about the limited time and capacity to certify all private vehicles currently on the road.  
    “Extending the period provides confidence that all vehicles needing to be self-contained can be certified within the transitional period.
    “That gives reassurance that laws can be properly enforced when they need to be in the future. “We’re announcing the extension now, to give certainty to both the sector and travellers as they make the most of the end of summer and start to prepare for the ski season. 
    “Approximately 12,000 rental vehicles are already certified self-contained, which represents the bulk of the national fleet, so holidaymakers can be confident about finding a suitable rental vehicle, wherever their destination. 
    “Extending the period for certification doesn’t detract from our Government’s commitment to the environment. It remains absolutely essential for freedom campers to respect their surroundings.
    “If you’re planning to freedom camp, always check the specific rules at each location where you want to stay,” Louise Upston says. 
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on proposed changes to inspection requirements for vintage vehicles and private motorhomes

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is seeking feedback on a proposal to reduce the frequency of warrant of fitness (WoF) checks on vintage and veteran vehicles and certificate of fitness checks (CoF) on privately owned heavy motorhomes.

    The changes, proposed by the Minister of Transport, would be progressed through an amendment to the Land Transport Rule: Vehicle Standards Compliance 2002.

    The proposed changes align with the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2024 objectives to reform the vehicle regulatory system. The proposed changes intend to reduce regulatory burden by saving owners of these vehicles time and money.

    When compared to other light vehicles, vintage/veteran vehicles and privately owned heavy motorhomes are used less frequently, and evidence suggests that vehicle faults from these vehicles result in fewer serious crashes when compared to newer light vehicles.

    Further information on the proposed changes and a form to provide feedback can be found at:

    www.nzta.govt.nz/consultations

    The last day for providing feedback is 4 April 2025.

    All feedback gathered in the consultation process will be considered before the Minister of Transport makes a decision in mid-2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drought conditions declared across Taranaki

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Agriculture Minister Todd McClay has today classified drought conditions in Taranaki as a medium-scale adverse event, acknowledging the challenging situation facing farmers and growers in the region.

    “Conditions on the ground are becoming extremely difficult with limited feed and pasture available,” Mr McClay says.

    “Taranaki is experiencing hot, dry conditions and below average rainfall. This has affected pasture growth and farmers have had to feed-out or sell livestock earlier to fill the gap.”

    Mr McClay said that the government was making $30,000 available to rural support groups who were working closely with farmers on the ground in Taranaki. 

    “I know farmers and growers in other parts of the country are experiencing dry conditions and I’ve instructed MPI to monitor the situation on the ground closely,” Mr McClay said. 

    Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson says the weather conditions are challenging.

    “The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has been working with sector groups, regional bodies, and farmers to provide extra support. This has included attending farmer meetings in southern and coastal Taranaki to discuss options for getting through and proving practical tips,” Mr Patterson says.

    “This classification unlocks further support for farmers and growers, including tax relief, and it enables the Ministry of Social Development to consider Rural Assistance Payments.”

    Farmers and growers who require support are encouraged to contact their local Rural Support Trust on 0800 787 254.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: More tools for businesses to deal with retail crime

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is clamping down on retail crime by giving businesses more powers to detain those stealing from them, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee say. 

    “Retail crime increased 85 per cent between 2019 and 2023, including a 91 per cent increase in victimisations relating to theft,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    “Currently, no one, including retailers and security guards, is protected from civil or criminal liability if they arrest and detain a person stealing goods valued at less than $1,000 during the day. The operation of the Crimes Act 1961 hinders people from stopping offending as it occurs right in front of them.

    “This initial package of reforms, put forward by the Ministerial Advisory Group 

    for victims of retail crime, will give Kiwi businesses additional tools to deal with those that are robbing them of their livelihood and economic growth.”

    These reforms include:

    • Amending the Crimes Act so that citizens can intervene to stop any Crimes Act offence at any time of the day.
    • Requiring that a person making an arrest contact Police and follow Police instructions.
    • Clarifying that restraints can be used, when reasonable, when making an arrest. 
    • Changing the defence of property provisions to the Crimes Act so it is clear that reasonable force may be used. 

    “The economic cost of retail crime in New Zealand is in the billions, and retailers and security guards face abuse and assault that no New Zealander should be subjected to. This Government will ensure that people working in the retail sector are being effectively protected, are empowered to stop offending, and that offenders are caught and deterred from future offending,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    “About 230,000 New Zealanders work in the retail sector. Increasingly, they are experiencing the personal and economic trauma of violent and theft-related crimes. The impact of crime on this group can have flow-on effects for their families and wider communities,” Mrs McKee says.

    “We established the advisory group to provide first-hand insight into the issues being faced by Kiwi retailers on the ground. The recommendations the group has come up with are sensible reforms that will enable retail offenders to be more readily stopped and deterred from future offending.

    “This is just the first suite of initiatives put forward by the Ministerial Advisory Group that the Government will be implementing. Watch this space.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Creating a level playing field in the energy sector

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A proposal by the Electricity Authority for mandatory non-discrimination obligations for electricity gentailers sends a strong signal that any advantage being provided to their own retailers will not be tolerated, Energy Minister Simon Watts and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones say.

    “This recommendation from the Energy Competition Task Force has been accepted by the Electricity Authority (EA) which launched consultation today on the measures to create a more level playing field for the energy sector,” Mr Watts says.

    The EA is proposing a progressive approach to non-discrimination obligations supported by increased monitoring of gentailers’ responses and consumer outcomes. If the first step proves insufficient, the EA could escalate to more prescriptive ways of levelling the playing field to ensure all New Zealanders can benefit from critical flexible generation.

    The proposed steps are:

    • Step 1: Principles-based non-discrimination requirements.
    • Step 2: Non-discrimination requirements set out in detail.
    • Step 3: All gentailer-supplied hedge contracts must be traded through a regulated market, on equal terms for all buyers.

    “The proposed measures send a strong signal that gentailers creating an advantage for their own retailers at the expense of the affordability and security of New Zealand’s energy supply will no longer be tolerated,” Mr Watts says.

    “A reliable and secure energy supply goes hand in hand with more affordable prices for Kiwis, and that is a key priority for the Coalition Government. This work could help promote much-needed investment in new generation and retail competition, flowing through to more choices and more affordable electricity for consumers.”

    “If these proposals go ahead, we will see much-needed rules put in place for how gentailers engage with independent and smaller players in the market, and what kind of terms they have to offer them,” Mr Jones says.

    “This means gentailers would be required to treat independent retailers and generators the same as they do to their own retail arms, shifting the dial on market competition by ensuring smaller and independent players in the market are on a level playing field with the big four gentailers.”

    The task force was established by the Electricity Authority and Commerce Commission, with MBIE as an observer in August last year in response to the power crisis in winter.

    The task force is focused on enabling new generators and independent retailers to enter, and fairly compete, in the market as well as providing more options for users.

    Mr Watts met the gentailers two weeks ago and warned them the Government would not accept a repeat of last winter.

    “All gentailers have a critical role in keeping the lights on at affordable prices and it’s important they keep taking action. This consultation will give a better picture of what else is needed to shore up reliable electricity supply, including in response to the current independent review of our electricity markets,” Mr Watts says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shoplifter faces the lights and sirens

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Routine patrolling in Avondale has bagged a prolific shoplifter.

    Late on Tuesday night, a frontline unit conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle sought by Police on Blockhouse Bay Road.

    “It was around 11.43pm, when staff were carrying out prevention patrolling in the area,” Auckland City West Area Commander, Inspector Alisse Robertson says.

    “The vehicle was stopped as its registered owner was sought by Police.

    “The man was not the registered owner but after speaking with the driver further, his identity was established.”

    Inspector Robertson says the man had numerous warrants for his arrest over dishonesty offending, including shoplifting.

    “The man was a person of interest to our National Retail Investigation Support Unit.

    “He was arrested on the roadside, and while he was being spoken to Police observed methamphetamine inside the vehicle.”

    Police have since charged the man with more than 20 shoplifting offences, along with possession of methamphetamine.

    “We will allege he was responding for offending at retail stores right across the city, with nearly $10,000 in offending since September,” Inspector Robertson says.

    The 34-year-old man has appeared in the Auckland District Court and will reappear on 19 March.

    “This is a great outcome from our staff and is another example of the work going into targeting recidivist retail crime offenders.”

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand and China Foreign Ministers meet in Beijing

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing today (26 February), concluding a substantive visit to China over the past two days.

     

    “We were pleased to re-connect with Foreign Minister Wang. We have known each other for many years, and today we continued our wide-ranging and constructive dialogue,” Mr Peters says. 

     

    Today’s discussion took place a year on from Foreign Minister Wang’s most recent visit to New Zealand, and during Mr Peters’ sixth official visit to Beijing. Mr Peters first visited Beijing in 1997, and he has previously visited a number of other cities across China.

     

    “The New Zealand-China relationship is very significant,” Mr Peters says.

     

    “China is New Zealand’s largest trading partner, and our long-standing relationship has been shaped over many years by strong connections between our people.

     

    “Befitting this comprehensive relationship, we discussed ongoing bilateral cooperation, a broad range of regional and global issues, as well as areas where we have differences.”

     

    The Ministers discussed key issues confronting both countries, as well as recent developments, including the Chinese naval deployment to the Tasman Sea. 

     

    “We also discussed our strong relationships with Pacific countries, including New Zealand’s special constitutional relationships with its Realm partners, in particular the Cook Islands,” Mr Peters says.

     

    “We also made clear New Zealand’s support for Pacific priorities and institutions, and Pacific-led responses to address the issues we face in our region, including on defence and security issues.

     

    “Our region and the world are facing a myriad of challenges, including increased tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.

     

    “We raised the importance New Zealand places on international rules, norms, and institutions, including those that have long underpinned the stability and success of the Indo-Pacific. We also highlighted the constructive role China can play in responding to regional and international security challenges, including on Russia’s war on Ukraine, and in the Middle East.

     

    “New Zealand acknowledged the importance of further high-level visits to China to continue to build mutual understanding, and discussed the significance of dialogue between New Zealand and China this year across the relationship, including on trade, agriculture, Antarctic issues, climate change, consular issues, human rights, foreign affairs, and the Pacific.”

     

    While in Beijing, Minister Peters also held constructive dialogues with other Chinese leaders: Vice President Han Zheng and Head of the International Department of the Chinese Communist Party Minister Liu Jianchao. He also held engagements with Ambassadors to Pacific Island countries based in Beijing, and with Chinese alumni of New Zealand universities.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: PM announces major upgrade to relationship with Viet Nam

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Vietnamese counterpart, His Excellency Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, have today announced the elevation of the New Zealand-Viet Nam relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. 

    This upgrade was announced during the Prime Minister’s visit to Viet Nam as the two countries mark 50 years of diplomatic relations. 

    Both leaders discussed opportunities to further grow and deepen the relationship between New Zealand and Viet Nam across economics, trade and investment, defence and security, education, and people-to-people connections under the new partnership. 

    “Strengthening our relationship with Viet Nam is incredibly important to New Zealand’s economic future, with more opportunities for businesses at home to access this crucial market. I am delighted that Prime Minister Chinh and I today agreed to take the relationship between our countries to the next level,” Mr Luxon says.

    “A Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is the highest level of partnership with Viet Nam and is a fitting way to commence our 2025 anniversary year.

    “This significant upgrade in the relationship is a major milestone and demonstrates the high level of trust, ambition, and strategic alignment between our countries. Viet Nam is the rising star of Asia, and the opportunities to work together on common goals are enormous.

    “Today, Prime Minister Chinh and I reflected on the flourishing relationship between New Zealand and Viet Nam, and the shared ambition to expand cooperation and to do more together across a wide range of priorities.

    “The agreement also shows the priority my Government is placing on relationships with Southeast Asia – a region crucial to our plan to grow our economy, create jobs and lift incomes.” 

    Prime Minister Luxon’s visit to Viet Nam continues tomorrow with a range of business and political engagements in both Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City. 

    Editor’s notes:

    New Zealand and Viet Nam agreed a Strategic Partnership in 2020. 

    The agreement to elevate to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will place New Zealand at the top tier of Viet Nam’s international relationships. 

    Over the next year, New Zealand and Viet Nam will agree a Plan of Action to outline joint initiatives under five pillars: (i) political engagement, (ii) defence, security and oceans, (iii) economics, trade and investment, (iv) climate change, science and technology; and (v) education and people to people links. 

    This is Viet Nam’s 10th Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Opening remarks in meeting with China Foreign Minister

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Opening remarks by New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters in meeting with China Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in Beijing on 26 February 2025:
     
    Thank you, Minister, for your warm welcome tonight.   
     
    It is a pleasure to return to Beijing, after our last visit in 2018. And thank you for your hospitality then, as now, and to a number of people on your side whose faces we recognise across many, many years.   
     
    This reciprocates your visit to Wellington last year. Our personal connection, built over many years, enables us to exchange candid perspectives on developments in our long-standing bilateral relationship and to continue to build our mutual understanding.   
     
    The New Zealand-China relationship continues to benefit, as you said, from our mutually beneficial and significant trade and economic relationship and the comprehensive, regular two-way exchanges by our people, which are again growing following the COVID-19 pandemic.   
     
    Our relationship also benefits from a resilient bilateral architecture that has been built up over many years of hard work and commitment by both sides, from regular high-level political exchanges to technical dialogues covering issues from trade and agriculture, to education, science and innovation, and indeed the environment.    
     
    Our long-standing connection enables our frank and comprehensive discussions on areas of disagreement, including those that stem from our different histories and different systems. Indeed, it is a sign of healthy relationships that we can and do express disagreement on important issues.   
     
    For New Zealand, you will be well aware of our ambition for the Pacific region to be peaceful, prosperous, and focused on Pacific-led institutions and solutions. Our connections to the Pacific are deep, particularly in the Realm of New Zealand which includes the Cook Islands, Niue and Tokelau. Indeed, it’s in the name: Pacific.   
     
    Alongside this, our deep and abiding support for the rules-based international order and stable security, defence, and political engagement in the Indo-Pacific region are fundamental to our interests.   
     
    Turning to the global picture, we are meeting at a time of great uncertainty and strain, with the conflict in Ukraine having just entered its fourth year, and the Middle East turning to rebuild and addressing the immense humanitarian need on the ground.    
     
    Our dialogue with China on bilateral, regional and international issues is more important than ever. We encourage China to use its influence, weight and role as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council to work towards resolution of global issues.    
     
    We look forward to discussing these matters further with you this evening and in the following years. 
     
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Jewish Council slams Australian universities’ ‘dangerous, politicised’ antisemitism definition

    Asia Pacific Report

    An independent Jewish body has condemned the move by Australia’s 39 universities to endorse a “dangerous and politicised” definition of antisemitism which threatens academic freedom.

    The Jewish Council of Australia, a diverse coalition of Jewish academics, lawyers, writers and teachers, said in a statement that the move would have a “chilling effect” on legitimate criticism of Israel, and risked institutionalising anti-Palestinian racism.

    The council also criticised the fact that the universities had done so “without meaningful consultation” with Palestinian groups or diverse Jewish groups which were critical of Israel.

    The definition was developed by the Group of Eight (Go8) universities and adopted by Universities Australia.

    “By categorising Palestinian political expression as inherently antisemitic, it will be unworkable and unenforceable, and stifle critical political debate, which is at the heart of any democratic society,” the Jewish Council of Australia said.

    “The definition dangerously conflates Jewish identities with support for the state of Israel and the political ideology of Zionism.”

    The council statement said that it highlighted two key concerns:

    Mischaracterisation of criticism of Israel
     The definition states: “Criticism of Israel can be antisemitic when it is grounded in harmful tropes, stereotypes or assumptions and when it calls for the elimination of the State of Israel or all Jews or when it holds Jewish individuals or communities responsible for Israel’s actions.”

    The definition’s inclusion of “calls for the elimination of the State of Israel” would mean, for instance, that calls for a single binational democratic state, where Palestinians and Israelis had equal rights, could be labelled antisemitic.

    Moreover, the wording around “harmful tropes” was dangerously vague, failing to distinguish between tropes about Jewish people, which were antisemitic, and criticism of the state of Israel, which was not, the statement said.

    Misrepresentation of Zionism as core to Jewish identity
     The definition states that for most Jewish people “Zionism is a core part of their Jewish identity”.

    The council said it was deeply concerned that by adopting this definition, universities would be taking and promoting a view that a national political ideology was a core part of Judaism.

    “This is not only inaccurate, but is also dangerous,” said the statement.

    “Zionism is a political ideology of Jewish nationalism, not an intrinsic part of Jewish identity.

    “There is a long history of Jewish opposition to Zionism, from the beginning of its emergence in the late-19th century, to the present day. Many, if not the majority, of people who hold Zionist views today are not Jewish.”

    In contrast to Zionism and the state of Israel, said the council, Jewish identities traced back more than 3000 years and spanned different cultures and traditions.

    Jewish identities were a rightly protected category under all racial discrimination laws, whereas political ideologies such as Zionism and support for Israel were not, the council said.

    Growing numbers of dissenting Jews
    “While many Jewish people identify as Zionist, many do not. There are a growing number of Jewish people worldwide, including in Australia, who disagree with the actions of the state of Israel and do not support Zionism.

    “Australian polling in this area is not definitive, but some polls suggest that 30 percent of Australian Jews do not identify as Zionists.

    “A recent Canadian poll found half of Canadian Jews do not identify as Zionist. In the United States, more and more Jewish people are turning away from Zionist beliefs and support for the state of Israel.”

    Sarah Schwartz, a human rights lawyer and the Jewish Council of Australia’s executive officer, said: “It degrades the very real fight against antisemitism for it to be weaponised to silence legitimate criticism of the Israeli state and Palestinian political expressions.

    “It also risks fomenting division between communities and institutionalising anti-Palestinian racism.”

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Waipoua River Fire

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    This afternoon Fire and Emergency was alerted to a vegetation fire at Waipoua River in the Kaipara region of Northland.
    The fire has grown to 70 hectares with a 4 kilometre perimeter and is expected to grow.
    We have multiple ground crews and 7 helicopters fighting the fire. 3 additional helicopters will be arriving tomorrow from as far away as Taupo.
    Police are assisting with evacuating dwellings in the Waipoua River Road area. Structures are at risk but no structures have been lost.
    This is likely to be a long duration event.
    Fire and Emergency will continue attacking the fire until nightfall and will remain on site for observation overnight.
    Helicopters and ground crews will ramp up activities at first light tomorrow and truck movement can be expected on the roads.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Roman Blinds Direct Unveils New Website for Smarter, Faster, and Personalised Shopping Experience

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: Roman Blinds Direct Unveils New Website for Smarter, Faster, and Personalised Shopping Experience

    Roman Blinds Direct, a leading blind manufacturer with a strong hold over the industry for the last 20 years, launched its brand-new website on 24 February 2025.

    The post Roman Blinds Direct Unveils New Website for Smarter, Faster, and Personalised Shopping Experience first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    – –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Te Kamo death

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are now releasing the name of a boy who died in Te Kamo on Sunday.

    He was three-year-old Reign Puriri.

    The young boy died tragically at a Church Road address after an incident with a moving vehicle in a driveway.

    “Our thoughts are with Reign’s whānau at this very difficult time as they prepare for his tangi,” Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer says.

    “The whānau need time to grieve after losing their boy, and they have asked Police to convey their need for privacy at this time.”

    Police are continuing with enquiries into what occurred on Sunday afternoon.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Energy – ELECTRIFY QUEENSTOWN: POWERING INNOVATION, COST SAVINGS AND DECARBONISATION

    Source: Electrify Queenstown

    Wednesday 26 February 2025 (Queenstown, New Zealand) — Queenstown businesses and households are invited to explore practical ways to save money, become more energy efficient, and decarbonise with the return of Electrify Queenstown in May.

    Building on the success of last year’s inaugural event, Destination Queenstown, with support from Queenstown Business Chamber of Commerce, will present a three-day programme designed to innovate and inspire change in the Queenstown Lakes.

    With principal sponsor Aurora Energy onboard for the second year, Electrify Queenstown promises to deliver an electric experience for the Queenstown community.

    Mat Woods, Destination Queenstown Chief Executive, says this year’s expanded programme caters to tourism operators, business owners, homeowners and anyone curious about making the switch to enable fully electric heating, cooking and transport.

    “Electrify Queenstown will share ideas and innovations to support businesses and households to electrify, save money and decarbonise. We’re excited about the win-win potential of electrification in supporting a vibrant, growing economy while protecting the environment for future generations,” he said.

    The opening day on Monday 26 May will take stage at Skyline Queenstown, a trailblazer in tourism innovation and electrification.

    Queenstown Lakes District Mayor, Glyn Lewers, will open with a welcome address followed by keynote speaker Saul Griffith — globally acclaimed author and entrepreneur sharing insights on why we must electrify and switch to renewable technology. An inspirational line up of speakers includes industry experts, policy makers and innovators who will present both the challenges and the vast potential of electrification from an economic, environmental and social perspective.

    Sharon Fifield, Queenstown Business Chamber Chief Executive, said, “It’s important, in what has recently been a tough economic climate, that any changes made in your business don’t sacrifice your bottom line. We’re thrilled to have experts joining Electrify Queenstown to share the benefits and opportunities that come with electrifying a business including cost savings, improved productivity, and emissions reductions.”

    On the second day, a full programme at the Queenstown Events Centre will spark conversations about the opportunities for businesses and households with electrification, and innovations in electric transport. A tradeshow exhibition will display new technology, low rate loans and exclusive deals, plus the opportunity to join interactive workshops led by experts in electrification and renewable energy. The community evening session from 6pm will focus on the energy transition, how to electrify your home and the role of electrification in community resilience.

    The third and final day will involve immersive electric experiences, sharing the very best in tourism innovation and technology, from local operators and global leaders.

    Lines company Aurora Energy is proud to once again be the principal sponsor of the Electrify Queenstown event.

    Richard Fletcher, Aurora Energy Chief Executive, said, “The growth of this event from one day to three days highlights the increasing demand and interest in electrification within our region. Aurora Energy is committed to ensuring that our network is ready to enable the future electricity and technology choices of consumers.

    “In supporting events such as these we hope we can play a part helping local businesses and communities be informed about the benefits of electricity, whether it is supplied from the national grid or generated and stored locally. We look forward to meeting with those attending, and discussing how we can work together towards a sustainable, efficient, and resilient future.” Richard said.

    Electrify Queenstown will take place over three days from 26 – 28 May 2025. Registrations are open for individual sessions, a day pass, or for the full three-day event.  

    For more information visit: electrifyqueenstown.co.nz

    Electrify Queenstown programme summary

    Monday 26 May 2025: Setting the stage for electrification (Skyline Queenstown)
    Tuesday 27 May 2025: Electrification in action (Queenstown Events Centre)
    Wednesday 28 May 2025: Electric experiences (Details coming soon)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health and Politics – Prime Minister uninformed to suggest nurses replace doctors – NZNO

    Source: New Zealand Nurses Organisation

    Suggestions that nurses replace doctors at GP clinics to address chronic staff shortages are uninformed, the New Zealand Nurses Organisation Tōpūtanga Tapuhi Kaitiaki o Aotearoa (NZNO) says.
    NZNO’s College of Primary Health Care Nurses chair Tracey Morgan says the Prime Minister’s comments shows a complete lack of understanding about how frontline primary and community care best operate.
    “Evidence continually shows a team based approach creates the best health outcomes in primary care. That means integrating health care workers based on their professional skills and experience; from practice nurse, to nurse practitioner, to allied health professional (such as physio or occupational therapists), to the GPs.
    “The nursing workforce can’t be stabilised and the much needed team approach developed with a high turnover of primary health care staff.
    “This is despite them having the same skills and qualifications,” Tracey Morgan says.
    “Instead of making uniformed suggestions, the Prime Minister must pay nurses in GP and community clinics the same as their hospital counterparts.
    “Only then will the Government be able to fix the chronic staff shortages in primary care which are resulting in people not being able to get to see their GPs, ending up in hospital even sicker and putting more pressure on already stretched hospitals.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: AT wants public feedback on changing central Auckland’s parking and kerbside spaces

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Transport (AT) is calling for input from the public over proposed changes to on-street parking and kerbside spaces in the city centre. These changes are designed to make it easier to live, visit and do business in the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau.

    From today people can have their say about changes in the Auckland city centre that would increase the number of pick-up/drop-off spaces, mobility parks, taxi stands, loading zones and parking spaces for motorcycles, bikes and scooters.

    Waitematā Local Board Chairperson Genevieve Sage is encouraging people to have their say about the proposed changes.

    “Although AT can’t add more kerb space to our already crowded roads, we can all have a say in what our existing kerb space is used for in central Auckland. We are keen to go back to basics and designate kerbside spaces to those who need it the most,” she says.

    “And while AT regularly makes small changes to kerb spaces, it’s now time to do a comprehensive review to ensure these spaces meet Aucklander’s needs today, and well into the future.”

    AT’s Group Manager of Transport Network Planning and Policy Andrew McGill says the proposed changes have been strongly influenced by feedback AT receives about the availability of city centre parking.

    “Aucklanders have told us they want more spaces in the city centre for quick stops, pick-ups and drop-offs and it’s pretty universal feedback from residents, business owners, delivery drivers and tradies,” Mr McGill says.

    “We’ve also heard people want better access for being dropped off for a night out at the Civic Theatre or Aotea Centre near Queen Street’s arts quarter.

    “The proposals we’re seeking feedback on have been designed to address the challenges we’ve heard from people living, working and visiting the city centre.

    “We have also looked at options for increasing the number of mobility parks on city centre streets to make it easier for people who have more limited transport choices.

    “By making these small and low-cost changes to Auckland’s quick stop parking spaces we can make our city more fit-for-purpose for popular services such as affordable rideshare, food delivery apps, and our never-ending online purchases,” Mr McGill says.

    “Public consultation is now underway. Dozens of the city centre’s business leaders, residents, workers, couriers, and other stakeholders have helped shape the proposal that we’re now sharing with everyone for their feedback.

    “We are listening and keen to respond to what Aucklanders tell us is important to them for kerbside space in the city centre,” he says.

    “Tell us how you would use this precious roadside space. What is best for your needs?”

    Feedback will be used to map out a multi-year plan called Room to Move in the City Centre. The plan will include short-term improvements before City Rail Link opens, along with some longer-term ideas which will be developed further. Public consultation is open until 30 March 2025. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy Commissioner welcomes Westpac privacy breach settlement

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy Commissioner John Edwards has welcomed the settlement reached between Nicky Hager and Westpac over the banks disclosure of Mr Hagers financial information to Police in 2014. Mr Edwards says there are important lessons to be learned from the case, particularly around the need for clear process when commercial organisations deal with Police requests for customer information. Police had sought Mr Hagers bank information from Westpac without seeking a production order or search warrant from a court. The bank responded by providing several months of his transaction information. Westpac has acknowledged it was wrong to give Mr Hagers bank information to Police without seeking further explanation.

    The Privacy Act allows companies to disclose some information to Police and other law enforcement agencies where necessary to avoid a prejudice to the maintenance of the law.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Te Matatini boosts Taranaki business

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Kua tū te haka a Tāne Rore me ngā mahi a Hine Rēhia!
    The world’s greatest kapa haka event will generate a significant boost for businesses in Taranaki, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.
    Minister Potaka attended Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 opening pōhiri at Yarrow Stadium in Ngāmotu – New Plymouth on 24 February. From Tuesday 25 February to Saturday 1 March, 55 groups will perform on stage in the Bowl of Brooklands at Pukekura Park to a large in-person audience and an expected 2.5 million viewers on TV or online.
    “It was a beautiful pōwhiri to welcome this great event to the rōhe under the gaze of Te Kāhui Tupua – Taranaki Maunga,” Mr Potaka says.
    “We’re here witnessing the Olympics of kapa haka. Tens of thousands are expected here this week and will bring tens of millions into the local economy. This means a boost for a range of businesses including accommodation providers and restaurants.
    “The significance of kapa haka to Te Ao Māori is something we value deeply, especially since the rise of the waiata-ā-ringa form with Tā Apirana Ngata. It also gives us the great gift of protecting and revitalising our reo. 
    “After much hard preparation and practice, bringing an event of this scale together requires a significant effort from many people from many backgrounds coming together for the benefit of all.”
    “As part of Budget 2024, the Government announced $48.7 million for Te Matatini over three years, backing the ongoing development of kapa haka events including this one for all New Zealanders to enjoy,” Mr Goldsmith says. 
    “The funding helps enable Te Matatini to embed a regional kapa haka model, allowing communities to decide how they want to grow kapa haka. It also supports Te Matatini to create this great biennial national festival.
    “My thanks to all those whose hard mahi has helped to make this year’s event a success we can all enjoy.”
    In 2023, the Te Matatini event in Auckland was attended by more than 70,000 people. The economic contribution to Auckland as a result of the festival was at least $22 million.
    Minister Goldsmith will be attending the event on Friday and Saturday.
     
    Hikitia ana ngā pakihi o Taranaki e Te Matatini
    Kua tū te haka a Tāne Rore me ngā mahi a Hine Rēhia!
    Ka kaha hikitia ngā pakihi o roto o Taranaki i te taumāhekeheke kapa haka mutunga mai o te ao, te kī a te Minita Toi a Paul Goldsmith rāua ko te Minita Whanaketanga Māori a Tama Potaka. 
    I tatu atu a Minita Potaka ki te pōhiri whakarewa i Te Matatini o Te Kāhui Maunga 2025 i tū ki Te Taiwhanga Hākinakina o Yarrow – ki Ngāmotu i te 24 Huitanguru. Mai i te Rātū 25 Huitanguru ki te Rāhoroi 1 Poutūterangi, e tū te 55 ngā rōpū ki te haka i te haka a Tānerore, me te mahi i te mahi a Hine Rehia ki te papa tūwaewae i te Oko o Brooklands ki Te Papatākaro o Pukekura ki mua i te aroaro tonu o te iwi nui i reira me tētahi 2.5 miriona kaimātakitaki anō ki runga i te pouaka whakaata, te ipurangi rānei.
    “Kātahi te rerehua o te pōhiri hei tāwhiri mai i tēnei huihuinga whakahirahira ki roto i te rohe i raro i te mātaitanga o Te Kāhui Tipua – a Taranaki,” te kī a Minita Potaka.
    “Ko te taumāhekeheke Orimipia tēnei o te ao kapa haka ka mātakitia ai e tātou. Ka tae mai ko te tini mano o te tāngata ki konei i tēnei wiki, oti rā, ka mauria mai anō hoki te tini miriona tāra ki te ōhanga ā-rohe. Ko te hua o tēnei ka hikitia ngā momo pakihi huri noa te rohe tae atu ki ngā whare noho, ngā kaiwhakarato me ngā wharekai.
    “Kāore i tua atu, kāore i tua mai i te hiranga a te kapa haka ki Te Ao Māori nō te hāpaitanga ake o tēnei momo āhua o te waiata ā-ringa nā Tā Āpirana Ngata. He taonga nui te kapa haka e whakamarumaru ana, e whakarauora ana hoki i tō tātou reo rangatira. 
    “I muri i te mahi nui o te takatū me te whakawai, kātahi te mahi nui ko te whakaritenga o te taiopenga pēnei te nui, me tini tonu ngā tāngata e whakapau kaha tahi ana mā te katoa ngā hua.”
    “Hei wāhanga o Te Tahua 2024, i pānuitia e te Kāwanatanga ko te $48.7 miriona i roto i te toru tau, hei tautoko i te haerenga tonutanga o te whanaketanga o ngā huihuinga kapa haka tae atu ki tēnei hei whakangahautanga mā ngāi Aotearoa katoa,” te kī a Minita Goldsmith. 
    “He mea āwhina te pūtea tautoko i Te Matatini ki te whakatinana i te tauira kapa haka ā-rohe kia āhei ai hoki ngā hapori ki te whakatau i tā rātou ake huarahi whakatipu i te kapa haka i tō rātou rohe. Hei tautoko hoki i Te Matatini ki te whakahaere i tēnei taiopenga nui whakaharahara ā-motu i ia rua tau.
    “Nei aku mihi ki te katoa i whakapeto ngoi kia eke panuku ai te taumāhekeheke i tēnei tau e tūrangahakoa ai tātou katoa.
    I te tau 2023, i tae atu te 70,000 tāngata neke atu ki Te Matatini i tū ki Tāmaki Makaurau. He neke atu i te $22 miriona te nui o te hua ā-ōhanga i whakawhiwhia ki te tāone nui o Tāmaki Makaurau mai i te taiopenga i taua tau.
    Ka tae atu a Minita Goldsmith ki te whakataetae ā te Rāmere me te Rāhoroi.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Co-Leaders announce plans to launch Green Budget this year

    Source: Green Party

    Green Party Co-Leaders Marama Davidson and Chlöe Swarbrick have announced the party’s plans to deliver a Green Budget this year to offer an alternative vision to the Government’s trickle-down economics and austerity politics.   

    “New Zealanders care about each other and the planet we live on. Our Green Budget will lay out the plan for an economy that respects and protects those things, instead of exhausting and exploiting both,” says Green Party co-leader and spokesperson for Finance Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “Poverty, and all the social ills that stem from it, doesn’t come from nowhere. It comes from a tolerance of extreme inequality. It comes from the privatisation of profit and the socialisation of cost.

    “In December, we released He Ara Anamata, our Emissions Reduction Plan, which showed how we could reduce emissions five times faster than the Government’s proposed ‘plan’. It showed we can not only reduce the cost of living, but increase quality of life.

    “Our Green Budget will build on that to continue to show precisely how a different world is possible, and entirely within our reach,” says Chlöe Swarbrick.

    “More and more tamariki continue to fall through the cracks and live below the poverty line, as a result of this Government’s choices; the choices to gut housing for our most vulnerable, to gut school lunches, to gut our health system and put growing pressure on our health workers,” says Marama Davidson.

    “We all depend on each other when times are rough. People want to care for each other – manaakitanga is part of human nature. This is the core value that will underpin our Green Budget.

    “Our mokopuna deserve better, and we can deliver better by channelling community power and finally putting people and planet ahead of profit,” says Marama Davidson.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt abandons retailers with citizen’s arrests

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government’s expansion of citizen’s arrest powers leaves retailers on their own to deal with crime on their premises.

    “National is not listening to the advice of their own police, who have consistently warned that letting Kiwis take the law into their own hands is unsafe, both for retailers and the public,” Labour police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.

    “Retailers are also expressing grave concerns about this policy, saying that it could escalate violence and put their workers in danger. These are often low-wage workers who are now expected to act as law enforcement officers. The Government needs to do its job and focus on breaking the cycle of crime, not ask people to put themselves in harm’s way.”

    “Turning New Zealand into the wild west is not a crime prevention strategy, it’s dangerous and goes against our values as New Zealanders,” Labour justice spokesperson Duncan Webb said.

    “A broad right of citizens to use force against each other is likely to lead to harm. The enforcement of the criminal law is the job of the police who are properly trained and the suggestion that it is appropriate for citizens to do this in any but the most narrow circumstances can lead to tragic consequences.”

    “This is unfortunately another example of Kiwis not getting what they were promised. They were promised 500 new police officers, but under this Government, more officers have left than have been brought on. They were promised safer communities, but methamphetamine use is skyrocketing. They were promised real solutions on retail crime. Instead, this Government is telling them they’re on their own,” Ginny Andersen said.

    “It is shameful, dangerous, and I fear that it’s only a matter of time before tragedy strikes because of their negligence.”

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SH1 Drury to Manukau northbound closure tonight and tomorrow nights

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises State Highway 1 will be closed to northbound traffic between the Drury Interchange and the Manukau Interchange overnight tonight (Wednesday 26 February) and tomorrow (27 February).

    The closure will also impact the below on- and off-ramps.

    • Drury northbound on-ramp
    • Papakura northbound off-ramp
    • Papakura interchange (Loop & Diamond) northbound on-ramp   
    • Takanini northbound off-ramp and on-ramp
    • Hill Road northbound on-ramp
    • SH1 Manukau northbound off-ramp
    • SH1 northbound to SH20 northbound Link

    The SH1 northbound closure between the Drury Interchange and the Manukau Interchange will be in place between 10pm and 5am. The above ramp closures and other lane restrictions may be in place before the advertised closure times for this section of SH1.

    Northbound traffic will be detoured via Great South Road and Redoubt Road.

    During this time, different contractors will undertake road works as part of the SH1 Papakura to Drury project, as well as general motorway maintenance activities, such as line marking, lighting, stormwater improvements and barrier maintenance, between Papakura and Manukau.

    These works have been coordinated and scheduled over two nights to maximise the amount of work carried out while minimising overall disruption to motorists.

    People are asked to plan ahead and allow additional time for their journeys.

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

    NZTA thanks everyone for their patience while this important work is completed.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –