NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media Advisory: Waitematā East Custody Unit re-opens

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police invites media to the re-opening of the Waitematā East Custody Unit on Tuesday 25 February.

    The Custody Unit will be based at the North Shore Policing Centre.

    Minister of Police Mark Mitchell, Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, and District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan will open the facility.

    Media are invited to cover the opening, which includes speeches, ribbon cutting and a tour of the facility.

    Media are required to RSVP to the event by emailing media@police.govt.nz. On the day you will be escorted by a representative from the Police Media Team to the location.

    KEY DETAILS:

    Where:

    North Shore Policing Centre, 52 Parkway Drive, Rosedale

    When: 

    Tuesday 25 February 2025.

    9am (arrive before 8.45am)

    Important Notes:

    Parking is limited – please allow additional time for arrival.

    The District Custody Unit will begin accepting detainees after this event has concluded.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland Regional Council media briefs 24/02/25

    Source: Northland Regional Council

    Mōtatau Students learn to use stream testing kits
    Northland Regional Council’s Land Management team has supported tamariki of Mōtatau School in their freshwater kaitiaki mahi through an event involving NRC, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust, and local landowner Waipapa Ahuwhenua Trust.
    The team taught 35 children to use the council’s Stream Health Monitoring Assessment Kits to test water quality in waterways on the Ahuwhenua Trust’s property in Opahi.
    The kits can be used to check nitrogen and phosphorous levels, water clarity, and the types and quantity of fish and insects present.
    The initiative was the brainchild of Waipapa Ahuwhenua Trust farm manager Riki Ngakoti, who wanted to equip the youngsters to be the freshwater kaitiaki of tomorrow as part of the trust’s commitment to environmental kaitiakitanga.
    Climate Change Commission to come to Northland
    The Climate Change Commission is planning a visit to Northland in March as it gathers evidence to inform the government on shaping a National Adaptation Plan due out this year.
    The commission is keen to understand climate risks, as well as enablers and barriers to effective adaptation in a Northland context.
    The Northland Regional Council’s climate team is looking forward to hosting the commission and to be able to put forward the unique challenges and opportunities we face here in Northland.
    Predator Free Whangārei; new artificial intelligence-equipped traps
    The field team had a busy month reinstating the leghold trap network that was shut down over the Christmas break.
    Fifty traps installed along a Parua Bay barrier zone have regularly caught possums over the 100 nights they have been set and 120 possums have been caught to date.
    The Nook project area (686 ha) moved from an initial knockdown stage to mop-up, where the frequency of checking is extended on the back of reduced possum numbers.
    An additional 500ha of coastal farmland has moved into the knockdown phase utilizing new artificial intelligence (AI) equipped traps. We will have a keen eye on the results of these devices as they automatically transmit their data, with 42 possums removed since early January. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Final Week of Summer ticks all the Summer Boxes – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 24 – Friday 28 February 2025 – Settled weather characterised by light winds, clear skies, warm days, and low amounts of rainfall continues over Aotearoa New Zealand this week due to a persistent area of high pressure lying over the country. The only disturbance in the flow comes in the form of a rainband moving up the western South Island on Tuesday, and MetService has issued a Heavy Rain Watch for northern Fiordland and the ranges of the Westland District.
     
    The incoming rain band moves onto southern Fiordland Monday evening, with the Heavy Rain Watch covering the 13-hour period from 7am Tuesday. It has been an abnormally dry start to the year for the western South Island, with Milford Sound recording only ~20% of its usual rainfall for this time of the year. The rain weakens notably before it reaches the lower North Island early Wednesday morning, and ahead of the rain, warm northwesterly winds will give daytime temperatures a small bump up on Tuesday, but a closely following southerly wind will drop them back down on Wednesday.
     
    MetService Meteorologist Clare O’Connor advises, “The uneventful weather is good news for anyone attending or performing at Te Matatini Festival in New Plymouth this week. Other than the chance of brief rain on Wednesday evening, dry and mostly sunny conditions are forecast so don’t forget to slip, slop, slap, and wrap while enjoying the day”.
     
    Similar conditions are expected over the whole country for the remainder of the week, before the next rainband approaches the south closer to the weekend.

    While settled weather is the story of the week here in Aotearoa, the tropics have had a burst of activity. Two tropical cyclones were named on Sunday evening: Tropical Cyclone Alfred in the Coral Sea, monitored by Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology, and Tropical Cyclone Rae which lies north of Fiji and is monitored by the Fiji Meteorological Service. A third area of interest between Vanuatu and Fiji may also develop into a tropical cyclone over the coming days.
     
    While none of these are expected to impact New Zealand, MetService’s tropical cyclone forecasters are always keeping a close eye on the tropics at this time of the year.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: The Great Outdoors – New field guide helps trail groups share stories

    Source: Herenga ā Nuku – the Outdoor Access Commission

    A new field guide will help community groups and trailmakers tell the stories of their trails.
    Many walking tracks, mountain bike paths and outdoor community spaces have important stories behind them that record our history, our connection to nature and the people who cared for the land.
    That is why Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa and WildLab have developed the Field Guide To Making Your Storytelling Panel Project Happen.
    The guide helps the country’s many great trail groups and trusts to build signs that share stories along their local trails.
    “Sharing the stories of your community and place is a wonderful way of inviting new audiences to appreciate and care for our special places,” says Mick Abbott, WildLab’s founder.
    “For this to be effective, it is important that the stories we tell and the way they are presented are inspiring, inclusive and appealing.”
    Herenga ā Nuku and WildLab worked with two local community groups, Ride Coromandel and Tiaki Maniototo to develop the panels that are the Field Guide’s case studies. The two groups have agreed to be the champions, supporters and mentors for other community trail groups that want to develop their own storytelling panels. In the Field Guide they share their new knowledge and expertise, so other groups can apply it and can pass what they learn forward.
    The Field Guide outlines the key steps for trailmaker groups to undertake a storytelling panel sign project.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Early licence renewal a convenient option for senior drivers

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is reminding senior drivers that they have the option of renewing their driver licence up to six months before it expires, in order to allow plenty of time to complete the renewal process.

    “We understand how important it is for senior drivers to have enough time to get a medical certificate and, if required by their health practitioner, book a practical driving test. To ensure this process runs as smoothly as possible, we want to make senior drivers are aware that they can start the renewal process early. And remember that renewing early won’t affect the new driver licence expiry date,” says Karina Morrow, NZTA Senior Manager Safer Drivers. 

    Senior drivers are required to renew their driver’s licence at age 75, 80 and every two years after that, and need to present a medical certificate when renewing. These can be issued by doctors, registered nurses and nurse practitioners operating within their scope of practice.  

    What senior drivers need to do  

    • a medical certificate issued within the last 60 days 
    • EFTPOS, credit card or cash to pay the $21.50 renewal fee.  
    • They may also need to complete a practical driving test if recommended by their doctor. There are two types of practical tests a doctor may require: 
    • On-road safety test, which assesses a driver’s ability to meet the minimum safe driving standard.   
    • Occupational therapist driving assessment, which assesses competency in a range of situations and where a medical condition may be a factor in driving (such as post stroke, Parkinsons Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, etc). 

    More information about renewing from age 75 and over is available on the NZTA website: 

    Renewing for seniors 

    Resources  

    NZTA offers a range of resources for senior drivers renewing their licence and Staying Safe courses run through Age Concern.  

    Senior driving resources 

    Staying Safe courses available in your area  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hornswoggling porch pirate nabbed in Waikato

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have arrested a 35-year-old Hamilton woman in relation to a number of parcel thefts around the region.

    She is facing five charges of burglary and is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court on Thursday 27 February.

    In recent weeks, Police have received a number of reports about parcels going missing from doorsteps of houses.

    Police are reminding the public to take extra caution to ensure their parcels don’t fall into the hands of thieves.

    Use the carriers’ parcel tracking services to keep an eye on when your parcel is due to arrive.

    If you are not home, make sure your parcel is left somewhere safe and out of sight, or ask a neighbour or friend to collect it from your doorstep.

    If you see anything suspicious, take note of any activity and/or vehicle number plates and make a report to Police.

    You can contact us via 105 by calling or making an online report, or call 111 if it is happening now.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Overhaul of Overseas Investment Act a Fire Sale of Kiwi Assets

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government’s reckless overhaul of the Overseas Investment Act is a fast track for foreign investment at the expense of Kiwi interests.

    “The Government’s reforms to the Overseas Investment Act are a significant shift away from the current overseas investment rules, and not in the best interests of New Zealanders,” Labour finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

    “It seems the Government’s new slogan ‘Everyone Must Go’ has been interpreted by David Seymour as ‘Everything Must Go,’ including New Zealand’s essential assets.

    “Under their plan, foreign investors will find it even easier to snap up key assets without clear protections for Kiwi jobs or incomes. Investing in New Zealand is a privilege, not an open invitation for profit-chasing investors to exploit our resources and siphon off the returns overseas. Yet, this Government is throwing the doors wide open, without ensuring our assets serve the interests of Kiwi workers, businesses, and communities.

    “The Government claims they have a ‘balanced’ approach, but that raises the question: balanced for whom? I don’t see any clear protections for New Zealand’s environment, public utilities, or any effort to consider Māori or the broader community.

    “There has been no consultation on these changes and the Government wants to rush the legislation through before the end of the year. The Treasury themselves, in David’s Seymour’s Cabinet Paper, say that because they were restricted by the Coalition Agreement, they have had no opportunity to test whether their policies can actually be delivered and whether the benefits will materialise.

    “Rushed reforms like these put our economic future at risk. This Government is making it easier for foreign companies to buy up key assets while shifting profits offshore. That doesn’t strengthen our economy, it weakens it. This is just another example of this Government taking New Zealand backwards,” Barbara Edmonds said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ChildFund – Keep Ukrainian Children Learning. One Day They Will Rebuild Their Country

    Source: ChildFund New Zealand

    We are grateful to the New Zealanders who continue to support children in Ukraine. They need us more than ever, as we enter the fourth year of the war.
    “This war has gone on so long, some children have never been inside a school,” says Josie Pagani CEO of ChildFund.
    “This is the generation who will have to rebuild Ukraine. They will be the builders, engineers, teachers, and leaders of the future. It’s not just that they deserve to be safe, to learn, to have a future like any other child. It’s also that they are literally the future of Ukraine.”
    ChildFund will keep supporting Ukrainian children, with the help of donations from the New Zealand public, and support from The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
    Since 2022, ChildFund’s partners implementing the Ukraine Regional Refugee Response have:
    • Reached over 3,700 caregivers and children with psychosocial support and counselling services
    • Provided access to child friendly spaces, supporting access for 2,383 children to play activities and facilities
    • Provided child dedicated food bags to 8,237 children and caregivers
    • Provided access to additional education and training services for 204 children and young people
    • Provided referrals, assistive devices and systems strengthening for 88 children with disabilities and service providers.
    Since Russia invaded, more than 4,000 schools and educational institutions in Ukraine have been damaged or destroyed.
    “We are asking New Zealanders to keep supporting these efforts. Ukrainian children need decent food, safe places to learn. They need to be able to play like other children, and get the counselling they so desperately need.”
    “We don’t know how this war will end. But we do know these children will be tasked with rebuilding their country and their communities. They need our support more than ever.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Retail activity up in the December 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: Retail trade survey: December 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Retail activity up in the December 2024 quarter – 24 February 2025 – The total volume of retail sales in New Zealand increased by 0.9 percent in the December 2024 quarter compared with the September 2024 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today. Figures are adjusted for price inflation and seasonal effects.

    “In the December quarter we saw a modest increase in retail activity, with growth across most industries,” economic indicators spokesperson Michael Heslop said.

    Ten of the 15 retail industries had higher retail sales volumes in the December 2024 quarter, compared with the September 2024 quarter, after adjusting for price and seasonal effects.

    Files:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Improvements for users of busy Waikato intersection 

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    The journey through Karāpiro is set to get a little bit easier, with the completion of works on the intersection of State Highway 1 and Karāpiro Road.  

    New line marking and signage have been installed near this busy intersection, including new electronic signs that will display safety messages. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says these safety messages will help to remind drivers of the importance of being vigilant around this intersection.  

    “The intersection at SH1/Karāpiro Road can be very busy, with local traffic heading towards Karāpiro School, the Mobil service station, and residences, interregional traffic connecting to State Highway 29 and heavy vehicles heading towards the quarry.  

    “The improvements we’ve made to the intersection, along with the electronic signage, will help to improve safety for all road users”, says Darryl Coalter, Regional Manager Infrastructure Delivery for Waikato/Bay of Plenty (Acting).    

    Since 2020 NZTA has been installing a range of safety improvements between Cambridge and Piarere aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on this stretch of road. This has included widening the road, having wider centre lines, installing turnaround bays and median barriers, and other safety treatments. 

    Improving road safety remains a top priority for NZTA but how we invest in road safety is changing. 

    Our focus is on delivering safe roading infrastructure via the Roads of National Significance and Roads of Regional Significance, providing enhanced maintenance and highway resilience as well as increased support for NZ Police enforcement. 

    “We investigated the possibility of installing a roundabout to replace the T-intersection, which would have been an interim step until the new interchange, as a part Cambridge to Piarere expressway project, began. With construction on the interchange expected to begin in late-2026, the roundabout wasn’t prioritised for funding via the current 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme,” says Mr Coalter. 

    “We are pleased that we have been able to progress these intersection improvements in the meantime.” 

    The Cambridge to Piarere expressway Road of National Significance project is 16-km long expressway with 4-lanes from the southern end of the Waikato Expressway near Cambridge to the new SH1/SH29 roundabout at Piarere. It will give road users more reliable travel times and improve safety further.  

    Here’s a concept animation showing how the new Cambridge to Piarere expressway may look:

    Video: SH1 Cambridge to Piarere concept design – October 2024

    Learn more about it here:

    SH1 Cambridge to Piarere

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Putting things right – Waimakariri Road SH5

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Work starts shortly to create a right-turn bay southbound into Waimakariri Road on State Highway 5 (SH5) in South Waikato.

    The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) says the work, which includes some road widening at the T-intersection, will be done during resealing in the area.

    It will provide a safe position for vehicles to wait to cross the state highway into Waimakariri Road.

    The work and new sealing will be carried out from Monday 3 March to Tuesday 18 March with line marking scheduled in late April. Dates are weather dependent.

    Access to properties will be maintained at all times but both SH5 and Waimakariri Road traffic can expect short delays due to some stop/go and speed restrictions in place.

    The right-turn bay is one of several safety improvements planned for the stretch of SH5 between Tīrau and Tārukenga Marae Road.

    • A roundabout will be built at SH5/State Highway 28/Harwoods Road starting in September and taking about 8 months to build.
    • Funding has been allocated to complete design for a roundabout at SH28/Whites Road.
    • Funding has also been approved for designing general widening between Whites and Harwoods Roads to allow for wide centrelines.

    Between 2014 and 2024, 18 people died and 64 were seriously injured on this section of road between the State Highway1 roundabout at Tīrau and Tārukenga Marae Road on the Rotorua side of the Mamaku Range.

    More information is available on the project website:

    SH5 Tīrau to Tārukenga safety improvements

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ Foreign Affairs – Foreign policy group voices alarm at New Zealand’s role in militarising the Pacific

    Source: Te Kuaka

    24 February 2025 – Amongst an intense reaction to China’s naval exercises in the Tasman sea and recent agreements with Cook Islands, a foreign policy group has criticised the New Zealand government’s signalled increase of defence spending towards 2% of GDP, calling it “loud but not smart” and a “classic case of empty vessels making the most noise”.

    This comes as declassified documents from the latest ANZMIN Australia and New Zealand foreign and defence ministerial meeting describe deterrence as “an increasingly important element of New Zealand’s national security and defence policy settings”, suggesting the increased budget will be spent on warfighting capabilities.

    “China’s intentions in the region are unknown and a maritime presence may be uncomfortable for the government, but it cannot be met militarily”, says Dylan Asafo, a senior lecturer at the University of Auckland. “If the government was serious about regional security and New Zealand’s influence in the Pacific, they would invest in development and diplomacy. Pacific nations are clear that climate change is the principal security threat, and yet Winston Peters is talking tough and reassessing the aid budget, weakening New Zealand’s relationships in the process.”    

    “Through increasing involvement in military pacts–such as NATO’s Indo-Pacific Four, Operation Olympic Defender, the Partnership for Indo-Pacific Industrial Resilience (PIPIR) and potentially AUKUS Pillar Two–our government is taking sides in a superpower rivalry that is militarising the Pacific and exacerbating regional crises,” says Marco de Jong, a lecturer at Auckland University of Technology. “But Trump is showing that the United States is unreliable. An independent foreign policy is more important now than ever.”    

    “This is wasteful spending that will only benefit the military industrial complex and doubles as a threat to our largest trading partner”, says de Jong. “We should be buying ferries not frigates. Our budget priorities must reflect urgent national issues, foremost of which is the cost of living crisis.”

    “New Zealand has an opportunity here to deescalate regional tensions, prioritise our existing relationships in the Pacific, and reestablish multilateral commitments that make small nations safe,” says Asafo. “We must recentre the environment, human rights, and global peace and stability in our foreign policy, rather than fighting other people’s wars.”

    About Te Kuaka

    Te Kuaka NZA is an independent organisation promoting a progressive role for Aotearoa in the world. Te Kuaka NZA was established by a group of New Zealanders with a commitment to an independent, values-driven foreign policy for our South Pacific nation – a New Zealand alternative. The organisation works creatively and inclusively to discuss and shape an active international role for Aotearoa that honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi, challenges structures of power and inequality and promotes environmental and social justice.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Finance – ASB lowers fixed mortgage rates for fourth time this year, including a 4.99% offer

    Source: ASB

    ASB has today reduced a number of its fixed home lending rates, marking the fourth round of fixed rate decreases so far in 2025.

    ASB’s 2-year mortgage rate drops 30 basis points to a joint-market leading 4.99%*, while its 1-year rate drops 24 basis points to 5.25%. ASB’s has also lowered its 3-year rate to 5.35%.

    ASB’s Executive General Manager Adam Boyd says “We are serious about giving our home loan customers and first home buyers interest rate relief, and that commitment should be evident in our consistent rate drops across January and February. Today’s fixed rate decreases will appeal to a broad range of Kiwi, with our sub-5 mortgage rate offering a strong medium-term option for people looking for added certainty.”

    ASB also lowered some of its term deposit rates by between 5 and 25 basis points.

     

    *As at 5.00pm, Friday 21st February 2025

     

      Fixed home lending term

    Previous rate

    New rate

    Rate decrease

    1-year

    5.49%

    5.25%

    – 24 bps

    2-year

    5.29%

    4.99%

    – 30 bps

    3-year

    5.59%

    5.35%

    – 24 bps

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Successful Māori business accelerator returns for second year

    Source: Tapuwae Roa

    Building on its successful debut in 2024, Tapuwae Roa announced today the return of the Tupu Accelerator, an eight-week programme designed to propel Māori-founded startups toward substantial and sustainable success.
    Developed in partnership with Sprout Agritech and co-funded by Callaghan Innovation, this year’s programme will welcome ten teams of aspiring Māori entrepreneurs from across Aotearoa, equipping them with the essential tools, mentorship, and resources needed to achieve global growth.
    “Last year, we were blown away by the calibre and passion of our inaugural Tupu cohort, who demonstrated tremendous growth and have since shown progress like international expansion and raising capital,” says Te Pūoho Kātene, Kaihautū (Chief Executive) of Tapuwae Roa.
    Feedback from last year’s participants echoed the programme’s transformative effect, with many founders crediting the programme as being instrumental in advancing their ventures.
    “This is just the beginning of my journey, but the lessons and insights I have gained during this course have accelerated this start-up process in a way I could not have imagined. I’m now more focused and clearer about the vision,” says 2024 Tupu Accelerator participant and founder of Bhone Beauty, Renei Kingi.
    Facilitated by experienced business coaches Saara Tawha and Brittany Teei (founder of KidsCoin), the accelerator focuses on key development areas for startup success, including customer validation, analysing markets, intellectual property protection, and navigating the process of raising capital.
    “Tupu Accelerator is designed not just to educate, but to transform and support, building strong bonds between founders who can learn and grow together within and after the programme,” says Kātene.
    Featuring a hybrid blend of in-person wānanga, guest speakers, online sessions, and personalised coaching, Tupu equips founders with the necessary skills to elevate their businesses from local operations to internationally competitive markets. Participating startups are also eligible to receive up to $5,000 in contributions towards professional services targeting crucial development areas for their business.
    “Our people are deeply entrepreneurial, and by providing them with the tools and insights necessary to excel beyond our shores, Tupu aims to launch Māori innovation into the heart of global markets.
    “We look forward to supporting a new cohort of brilliant startups to reach their entrepreneurial potential as they drive innovation and excellence within the Māori economy.”
    Applications are now open and close on 20 March 2025. For more information or to apply, visit www.tupu.org.nz.
    ABOUT TUPU ACCELERATOR
    Delivered by Tapuwae Roa in partnership with Sprout Agritech and co-funded by Callaghan Innovation, Tupu is an eight-week kaupapa-Māori business growth programme to accelerate Māori start-ups towards sustainable success, equipping founders with the essential tools, mentorship, and resources to achieve global success.
    2024 COHORT PROFILES

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: UNICEF – Three years on: One in five children in Ukraine has lost a relative or friend since the escalation of war

    Source: UNICEF Aotearoa NZ

    One in five children in Ukraine has reported losing a close relative or friend since the escalation of war three years ago, according to survey data released by UNICEF.
    “For far too long, death and destruction have remained a constant in the lives of children in Ukraine,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell. 
    “This level of violence causes immense fear and suffering and disrupts every aspect of a child’s life.” 
    Ukraine’s third year of full-scale war was even deadlier for children than the preceding year. The number of child casualties in 2024 rose by more than 50 per cent compared to 2023. More than 2,520 children have been killed or injured since February 2022. The true number is likely far higher, as these figures account only for child casualties verified by the UN. 
    More than 1,600 education facilities and nearly 790 health facilities have been verified as damaged or destroyed over the past three years. The war has left children and teenagers facing profound loss and deprivation, affecting their development and well-being, at critical stages in their lives. 
    Experiences during the first three years of life influence children’s lifelong health and learning. Yet three-year-olds in Ukraine have only known war. Parents report feeling physically and emotionally exhausted, impacting family life. The essential services that young children and their parents rely on have also been disrupted by the war. 
    Adolescence is also a particularly challenging time for children in Ukraine. Almost one-third of teenagers reported feeling so sad or hopeless that they stopped doing their usual activities. These sentiments are more common among girls. Mental health challenges for children and young people in Ukraine are worsening due to isolation. Many children consistently spend hours sheltering in basements, missing opportunities to socialize and learn. Nearly 40 per cent of children study only online or through a mixture of in-person and remote classes. The impact on learning has been profound with an average educational loss of two years in reading and one year in maths. 
    UNICEF works with partners across Ukraine to provide critical lifesaving support including access to health care, safe water, cash assistance, education and child protection services to children across frontline areas. Together, we repair and rehabilitate water and sanitation networks and ensure families with children have access to fuel and clothing to keep them warm during the harsh winters. At the same time, UNICEF works with the Government and partners to support recovery and long-term development, and foster social cohesion, through strengthening systems that serve children and their families. This includes ensuring that child and social protection, health and education systems can provide timely and quality essential support, care and opportunities to children. 
    There are currently 6.86 million Ukrainian refugees registered globally, almost one million of whom are living in Poland. For refugee children, access to school remains a challenge with half of school-age children in refugee-hosting countries not enrolled in national education systems, impacting their opportunity to learn and interact with their peers, as well as to develop essential skills that will be critical to the recovery of Ukraine. 
    UNICEF continues to work with governments, municipalities and local partners to strengthen systems that provide refugee children with quality education, health care and protection services. 
    “Children must always be protected from the impacts of war in accordance with international humanitarian and human rights law,” said Russell. 
    “More than anything, children in Ukraine need sustained peace, and the chance to realize their full potential.”
    Multimedia materials available here: https://weshare.unicef.org/Package/2AM4080FDL1J

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – EPA approves new crop protection tool

    Source: Environmental Protection Authority

    The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has approved a new insecticide to control pests on key crops such as beets for livestock, and brassicas.
    Bayer New Zealand applied to import or manufacture Sivanto Prime, an insecticide containing 200 g/L of flupyradifurone, a chemical new to New Zealand.
    Bayer says Sivanto Prime has a new way of working that targets sucking pests such as aphids, nysius fly and springtails, providing growers with an alternative to older, broad-spectrum insecticides.
    “This decision will help farmers protect crops that are essential to New Zealand’s primary sector,” says Dr Lauren Fleury, EPA Hazardous Substances Applications Manager.
    Insect pests can cause significant damage to feed crops, making them less palatable to stock and reducing yields.
    Bayer says Sivanto Prime may be considered compatible with newer, lighter-touch farming practices because it works in a more targeted way.
    The decision to approve Sivanto Prime was made following a rigorous assessment and consultation process, says Dr Fleury.
    “As this product contains an active ingredient that is new to New Zealand, we assessed the scientific data and evidence, as well as economic and local information, to help enable new chemistry while continuing to protect people’s health and our unique environment.”
    Flupyradifurone is approved for use in other countries, including Australia, Canada, Europe, Japan, and the United States of America.
    The substance can only be used by professionals in commercial settings, and users must comply with specific controls.
    As an agricultural compound, Sivanto Prime must also receive approval from the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) before it can be used in New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Stop Defence civilian job cuts if the Govt is serious about increasing spending – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The PSA is urging the Government to stop planned job cuts to the Defence Force civilian workforce in the wake of promises to increase defence spending.
    “We welcome the u-turn on Defence spending by the Government and urge it to start by stopping any further cuts to the civilian workforce,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, Assistant Secretary for the Public Service Association for Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “The civilian workforce plays a vital role in ensuring NZDF can operate – such as maintaining IT systems, providing security at bases, and engineering support for military equipment. Defence can’t operate without a well-resourced civilian workforce.
    “It’s ironic that the backdown on Defence spending comes just a year after it ordered the agency to slash spending by 6.5%.”
    And last December NZDF told staff across its military and civilian workforce that it wants to cut $50m through its Workforce Savings Programme in the 2025/26 financial year as part of plans to tackle a $360m blowout in spending.
    “The civilian workforce is already cut to the bone, and more cuts are planned to be announced next month we understand. Some 200 roles in the civilian workforce of around 3000 have been disestablished last year. This includes 144 voluntary redundancies and other vacant roles not being filled.
    “It’s great that the Government belatedly realising that the unstable geopolitical environment, underlined by the activities of the Chinese navy off the coast of Australia currently, means we need to invest more in defence.
    “We urge the Government to stop with the reckless cuts and spending decisions like stopping flu vaccines to date. It must do the right thing by its critical civilian workforce if it is really serious about the capability of the Defence Force.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Future blooms bright for rare tree daisy

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  24 February 2025

    The seedlings are the product of a growing partnership between the Department of Conservation and the Department of Corrections.

    Commonly known as Gardner’s tree daisy, Olearia gardneri is found in the southern half of the North Island. The small tree is dependent on conservation efforts as its seeds fail to germinate in dense introduced grasses.

    Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Lois Allison-Cooper says Olearia gardneri is unique to New Zealand.

    “It’s one of our few native deciduous trees, so it looks dead in winter then revives in the warmer weather with small leaves and white flowers.”

    “We collected seed from a known population in Paengaroa Scenic Reserve near Taihape – it seems to like shrubby forest edges and semi-permanent pools of water.”

    Department of Corrections Horticulture Instructor Murray Nielson says the nursery programme isn’t just benefiting the environment.

    “Prisoners working in the nursery are trained to level 2 horticulture, which provides them with skills and qualifications that prepare them for employment upon release. Equally importantly, they relax into the team and the environment. It’s an excellent setting for learning and rehabilitation.”

    “The team here take pride in contributing to the conservation outcomes of an incredibly rare tree.”

    Lois says the seedlings will remain at the nursery until large enough to survive in the wild, where they’ll grow to be up to 3 metres tall.

    “The seedlings will give the wild population a real boost, we’re fortunate to have this relationship with Corrections.”

    Olearia gardneri is threatened by habitat loss, animal browsing, introduced weeds, and a lack of seedling recruitment.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 76 gang patches seized by Police under new law

    Source: New Zealand Government

    In the three months since the Government’s new gang laws came into effect Police have seized 76 patches, 67 firearms, and laid 337 charges for insignia breaches.

    Police Minister Mark Mitchell, and Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith say that Police have done an outstanding job of enforcing the new laws and holding gang members to account for the misery they inflict on other Kiwis. 

     “We all know how a gang member earns their patch. Before the changes, gang members felt empowered and used their patches to intimidate law-abiding New Zealanders. Since the Gangs Act came into effect, we have seen patches disappear from our streets,” Mr Mitchell says. 

     “We passed these laws to improve public safety, and they have done exactly that. We have seen a 52 per cent increase in firearms seizures when compared to the same period last year. I commend Police for the good work they are doing.” 

     “These new laws have given Police additional tools to go after gang members that intimidate New Zealanders and create new victims,” Mr Goldsmith says. 

     “We make no apologies for getting tough on gangs. This legislation is meant to be uncomfortable. If you don’t like it, don’t break the law, it’s that simple. Gang members want all the rights of being a New Zealander, but accept none of the responsibilities. 

     “This is an essential part of ensuring there are 20,000 fewer victims of serious violent crime by 2029 alongside a 15 per cent reduction in serious repeat youth offending.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police put pressure on gangs

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have filed over 3000 charges against gang members since the introduction of the Gangs Act in late November.

    Between 21 November 2024 and 19 February 2025, Police filed 337 charges for insignia breaches and 3037 charges for other offending including serious violence, drugs, and firearms.

    Police Commissioner Richard Chambers says the charges are a result of targeted enforcement action against those causing fear and harm in our communities.

    “Our expectations around this legislation have been clear from the very beginning — if you wear a gang patch in public, or display a sign or symbol associated with a gang, you can expect Police attention — and these numbers demonstrate that.

    “They also paint a picture of other very serious offending committed by those in or connected to gangs, including possession of illicit drugs and unlawful firearms and violence.”

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Police Minister Mark Mitchell, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Commissioner Chambers are today visiting the Gang Disruption Unit in Counties Manukau to celebrate the success of Operation Nickel – a nationally-led plan to support all Police staff with the new enforcement powers.

    Operation Nickel ran from 21 November 2024 to 31 January 2025.

    “Police around the country have done an outstanding job from planning right through to implementation on the frontline,” Commissioner Chambers says.

    “Nationwide, we continue to see generally high levels of compliance with the Act.

    “In the months before the legislation came into effect, Police met with gangs to ensure they were clear on our enforcement approach and to encourage them to make good choices.

    “The high level of compliance we’re seeing now reflects the fact most gangs have exercised good judgement. We acknowledge and continue to encourage that.

    “It’s a positive start, and my staff continue to follow up reported breaches, either at the time of the offence or at a later date.

    “The policing of gangs is and will remain an all-of-Police priority.”

    As announced last year, the work of Operation Cobalt will be continued through District staff including Gang Disruption Units and coordinated by the National Gang Unit.

    Operation Cobalt ran across all 12 Police districts for two and a half years. In that time, 107,073 charges were filed.

    “I want to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and successes of all those staff involved in Operation Cobalt over the past two and a half years, from national coordinators to frontline teams that have made a real impact in combatting gang-related crime,” Commissioner Chambers says.

    “It’s pleasing to see the NGU, and District Gang Disruption Units up and running, assisting with search warrants, investigations and helping apprehend priority offenders.

    “Police will take every opportunity to enforce the law. The pressure on gang members is not going away.”

    POLICING GANGS – BY THE NUMBERS

    Op Nickel/Gangs Act (21 November 2024 – 19 February 2025):

    • 76 patches seized
    • 316 additional insignia items seized
    • 337 insignia breach charges under Gangs Act
    • 3037 other charges against gang members (including drugs, firearms, serious violence)
    • 67 firearms seized from gang members

    Note: No dispersal notices, non-consorting charges or prohibition orders have been issued.

    Operation Cobalt (June 2022 – December 2024):

    • 1,954 search warrants
    • 1,069 warrantless searches
    • 107,073 charges filed
    • 143,610 IONs issued (traffic-related offending)
    • 757 firearms seized

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand stands with Ukraine, three years after illegal Russian invasion

    Source: New Zealand Government

    As the world marks three years since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Foreign Minister Winston Peters has announced additional sanctions on Russian entities and support for Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction. 

    “Russia’s illegal invasion has brought three years of devastation to Ukraine’s people, environment, and infrastructure,” Mr Peters says. 

    “These additional sanctions target 52 individuals and entities involved in Russia’s military-industrial complex, its energy sector, North Korea’s support to Russia’s war effort, and the forced relocation or re-education of Ukrainian children.”   

    Mr Peters announced a further $3 million contribution to the World Bank-administered Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund.   

    “The Fund supports the Government of Ukraine to maintain services, conduct relief efforts, and plan and implement recovery, reconstruction and reforms,” Mr Peters says.   

    Since the Russia Sanctions Act entered into force in March 2022, New Zealand has imposed sanctions on more than 1,800 individuals and entities, along with a range of trade measures.    

    More information about sanctions, travel bans, and export controls against Russia, as well as diplomatic, military and economic support to Ukraine, can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade website here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing Market Confidence – ASB Housing Confidence Survey: Optimism persists, but momentum slows

    Source: ASB

    • Number of New Zealanders expecting house prices to increase continues to rise – a net 33 percent compared to 24 percent in the previous quarter, with Aucklanders most confident. 
    • Slight drop in proportion of Kiwi expecting interest rates to fall, from net 57 to net 51 percent, reflecting some concerns.
    • Nationwide, a net 23 percent of respondents think it’s a good time to buy a house, although confidence wavers in Auckland.

    ASB’s latest Housing Confidence Survey out today reveals while New Zealanders on average remain optimistic about the housing market, momentum is yet to pick up.

    Across all regions, Kiwi are confident house prices will continue to increase this quarter, with Aucklanders remaining the most confident, but Canterbury showing the highest rise in confidence over the quarter (net 38%, up from 25% in Q3 2024).

    The survey (which predates the RBNZ’s February OCR cut) showed a slight drop in number of respondents who are expecting interest rates to lower (a decrease to net 51 percent, down from a record 57 percent in the previous quarter). Cantabrians replaced Aucklanders as most optimistic this time around.

    ASB Chief Economist Nick Tuffley says “These results align with expectations for a slower pace of OCR cuts for the rest of 2025. Inflation is back under control, and the RBNZ has already cut the OCR considerably.  There may also be some concern about the inflationary impacts of Trump’s re-election in the US.”

    Buyer sentiment also inches up, with a net 23 percent of those surveyed believing it’s a good time to buy, compared to 20 percent last quarter. The North Island (excluding Auckland) and Canterbury lead the way as most confident at net 24 percent.

    In contrast to the nation-wide uplift in confidence levels, the number of Aucklanders who think it’s a good time to buy slightly fell from a net 24 to 23 percent.

    “For those considering buying a home, there is a bit of a sweet spot at the moment with interest rates continuing to fall, high levels of supply and subdued house prices.

    Even though Kiwi are optimistic about house prices going up and are increasingly confident this is a good time to buy – we are yet to see much shift in housing market momentum, so it’s not necessarily translating into increased activity.

    This is also reflected in the latest data from REINZ which shows a surge in new inventory of homes on the market, while sales continue to decline,” says Tuffley.

    The ASB Housing Confidence Survey canvasses thousands of Kiwi across the country each quarter on their view of the housing market and future expectations. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public Service – Oranga Tamariki workers strike over insulting pay offer, unmanageable workloads – PSA

    Source: PSA

    Strike to begin 28 February with two hour full labour withdrawal 7 March
    PSA members at Oranga Tamariki are taking strike action over an insulting pay offer and a refusal to address the concerns of workers over unsafe and unmanageable workloads.
    “Enough is enough – Oranga Tamariki is effectively offering a real pay cut and failing to ensure workloads are reasonably sized and well managed,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, Assistant Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    The strike covers around 2,800 workers including social workers, supervisors, staff in care and protection and youth justice residences, family group conference workers and admin support staff.
    “It’s insulting to workers who are doing vital work for the agency supporting at risk tamariki and rangatahi at a time of rising stress for many families.”
    In bargaining for a new collective agreement Oranga Tamariki has offered small lump sum payments and no salary increases and provided no solutions to the long standing and growing workload management issues which have only been aggravated by last year’s big job cuts.
    “The workers care deeply about the children they support, but they are left with no choice. The pressure on staff to keep working after hours, such as with emergency care placements for children overnight in motels or offices, is unacceptable.
    “Workers are sending a strong message to the Government that it must make a fair offer, and develop a fair workload management system or more staff will face burn out.
    “Decades of reviews and inquiries at Oranga Tamariki have consistently identified high staff workloads as a barrier to good outcomes for tamariki, rangatahi and whānau. Without progress, we will see more skilled people leave Oranga Tamariki – how can that be good for the children in the agency’s care?
    [See attached stories from workers about the stress they are enduring]
    “The latest child poverty statistics this week show no change in the number of children living in material hardship. We know poverty creates stress for families. This is the time when the Government should be investing in the services Oranga Tamariki provides, and doing all it can to support and retain workers.
    “Instead it has gutted Oranga Tamariki, forced it to shed over 400 workers, increased workloads, cut contracts for many community service providers and now is turning a blind eye to the pay and conditions of so many of its own workers.
    “This risks creating lasting damage to the tamariki, rangatahi and whānau of New Zealand who need Oranga Tamariki’s support.”
    Details of strike action
    A variety of actions will be taken by PSA members. Some actions include members working in essential services; care and protection residences, youth justice residences, residential homes, and the national contact centre (their actions begin 7 March). There will be a total withdrawal of labour across the agency for two hours from 3pm Friday 7 March.
    The actions begin at 5pm on Friday 28 February and end on Friday 18 April. They include:
    -A ban on all work that is not paid work, including only working standard hours of work and taking all rest and meal breaks.
    -A ban on using all work-related systems and software outside of paid work, including online case recording systems.
    -A ban on working paid overtime; and a ban on working overtime for TOIL.
    -A ban on working double shifts.
    -A ban on being on-call and working call-back (after-hours duties).

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – CPAG urges Government to reverse ‘funded to fail’ school lunch cuts

    Source: Child Poverty Action Group

    The Child Poverty Action Group has today told the Government that reversing cuts to school lunches is an achievable way to address rising child poverty levels in New Zealand.
    Official statistics released last week showed an extra 36,600 children are likely to be living in material hardship compared to two years ago.
    Speaking to Guyon Espiner on TVNZ’s Q+A on Sunday, CPAG Executive Officer Sarita Divis said she was heartened to hear the Minister of Child Poverty Reduction Louise Upston mention the healthy school lunches programme as a key commitment of this government in tackling child poverty.
    This year the Government scrapped the previous model of healthy school lunches, many of which created jobs in local communities. Instead, it switched to a for-profit model delivered under an $85 million annual contract with the School Lunch Collective, a partnership between Compass Group NZ, Libelle Group and Gilmours.
    The new lunch programme has a budget of $3 per meal, about $5 cheaper than the previous model.
    “One in four children do not have enough food. That could be that they don’t have breakfast and dinner so we need to make sure that the lunch that they receive is nutritious, healthy and delicious so that they do get those educational benefits and those health benefits.”
    The new model has been beset by problems, with late deliveries, culturally insensitive food, and a largely repetitive, unappetising menu with questionable nutrition value since its implementation at the start of the school year.
    “Education is one of the key ways to break the cycle of poverty.”
    Ka Ora, Ka Ako only provides for about 40 percent of NZ children living in food poverty and there was a strong argument to not only reverse the cuts, but increase the number of children who receive the meals, Ms Divis said.
    “When you do proactive policies like this it can make a difference,” Ms Divis said.
    “Reverse those cuts. We think that is really achievable for the government.”
    Ms Divis said CPAG was disappointed the Government’s Budget policy statement in December – which gives an early indication about priorities in May’s Budget – had no mention of child poverty.
    Under the Child Poverty Reduction Act (2018), the Government is legally required to address child poverty rates in the Budget with specific policies.
    Last year, CPAG along with Health Coalition Aotearoa and the NZEI Te Riu Roa, campaigned to stop cuts to the programme with 26,000 people signing a petition to save school lunches.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Ashworths Rd, Hurunui

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are currently at the scene of a serious two-vehicle crash on Ashworths Rd (SH1) near Mays Road, Hurunui. 

    Police were called about 5.30pm. 

    Initial reports suggest two people have been seriously injured. 

    Traffic management is in place. 

    Motorists should avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Hadlow, Timaru District

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died after a single-vehicle crash on Spur Road, Hadlow, in the Timaru District.

    The crash was discovered about midday today and is thought to have occurred overnight.

    The Serious Crash Unit is examining the scene, and diversions are in place.

    Motorists should avoid the area if possible.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Going for Growth: Overseas investment changes to drive higher wages

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Finance Minister David Seymour has today announced the Government’s plan to reform the Overseas Investment Act and make it easier for New Zealand businesses to receive new investment, grow and pay higher wages. 

    “New Zealand is one of the hardest countries in the developed world for overseas people to invest in businesses, and our productivity growth is woeful. Those two facts are closely linked. 

    “We are introducing reforms to improve New Zealand’s overseas investment laws. The package will speed up decisions and provide more confidence to investors, while protecting our national interests. 

    “Overseas investment can support economic growth because when workers work with better tools and technologies, they are more productive and get paid more. 

    “I’ve seen the difference that overseas investment can make. I once visited two businesses in the same industry on the same afternoon. Both had skilled and passionate people with good ideas. One had overseas investment, though, and benefited in two ways. They had more money for machinery, and they had more know-how for manufacturing and marketing their product by receiving knowledge from their partners offshore. 

    “New Zealand’s productivity growth has closely tracked the amount of capital workers have had to work with. Our capital-to-labour ratio has seen very little growth in the last 10 years, averaging approximately 0.7 per cent annually. That’s compared to growth of around 2 percent a year in the previous 10 to 15 years. Unsurprisingly, productivity growth averaged 1.4 percent a year between 1993 and 2013, but only 0.2 percent between 2013 and 2023. 

    “The Government has agreed on a reform package which includes: 

    • better acknowledging the benefits investment can provide to New Zealand’s economy, 
    • for all investments aside from residential land, farmland and fishing quota, making decisions in just 15 days, unless the application could be contrary to New Zealand’s national interest, 
    • strengthening the Government’s ability to intervene on the rare occasion that a transaction is not in the national interest, 
    • giving LINZ more powers to grant consent without involving Ministers. 

    “High-value investments, such as significant business assets, existing forestry and non-farmland, account for around $14 billion of gross investment each year. Cabinet has agreed to remove the barriers for these investments, while retaining existing protections for residential land, farmland and fishing quota. 

    “Nearly every other developed country has less obstructive laws than New Zealand. They benefit from the flow of money and the ideas that come with overseas investment. If we are going to raise wages, we can’t afford to ignore the simple fact that our competitors gain money and know-how from outside their borders.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BusinessNZ Statement – Overseas investment overhaul: NZ means business

    Source: BusinessNZ

    BusinessNZ says the Government’s announcement to reform the Overseas Investment Act sends a positive signal to the world that New Zealand is ready to do business. 
    Chief Executive Katherine Rich says existing rules make it difficult and uncertain for overseas investors to consider investing here. 
    “New Zealand’s settings for overseas investment have been some of the most restrictive in the OECD. These rules have held us back from achieving our potential as we say no to investment which has been accepted by other economies. 
    “As one example, any non-urban land parcel larger than five hectares is deemed sensitive in the current Act. For the likes of a manufacturer looking to set up shop and invest here, anything less is far too small. 
    “BusinessNZ has long advocated for new policy settings which could allow us to gain the benefits of overseas capital and grow businesses, assets, and the incomes of New Zealanders. We know that business will be heartened by today’s announcement. 
    “Changing settings will be a positive first step in showing the rest of the world that we welcome investment – but more changes are required to encourage it. 
    “Settings related to taxation of overseas earnings and incentives for research and development need to be more internationally competitive. Otherwise, investors will choose to put their money and talent where they see a better return.”
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal quad bike crash – Purangi, Taranaki

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A person died after a quad bike crash on Tarata Road, Purangi yesterday afternoon.

    Police were advised at 2.30pm that a quad bike had rolled on the road, adjacent to paddocks.

    The person was critically injured and tragically passed away at the scene.

    Our thoughts are with their family and loved ones.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Biosecurity New Zealand Birkdale fruit fly update, February 23 2025

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    MPI is providing daily 10am updates for any significant developments regarding the Oriental fruit fly response.

    There is no significant update at this time. No further fruit flies have been detected. Today, our team continues its work on the ground checking traps, collecting waste from bins in the area for safe disposal, and talking to the local community, who we thank for their co-operation.

    Please find our latest press release from yesterday here:

    Biosecurity New Zealand media release – Birkdale fruit fly update

    Oriental fruit fly response information

    We appreciate your work in helping to get information out to the public.

    For media queries, call 029 894 0328 or email media@mpi.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –