NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New bill would ensure businesses’ interests are heard in liquor licencing decisions

    Source: ACT Party

    “Licensed liquor outlets are legitimate businesses that serve a demand in the community while offering employment and bringing shoppers to town centres,” says Dr Parmjeet Parmar, who has lodged a new bill in Parliament’s member’s ballot to strengthen the voice of liquor-licenced businesses.

    “Establishing a licenced business involves financial commitment, risk, and hard work, but current legislation means that businesses are threatened with closure when they seek to renew their licence, or when a local alcohol policy changes.

    “Labour made navigating a licence application or renewal process even more difficult than it already was. Too many groups have been given too much power to effectively block the establishment or renewal of liquor licences.

    “ACT says that licencing decisions should prioritise the interests of those most affected – namely, the business itself, its customers, and the immediate local community. My bill limits eligibility to oppose an application for, or renewal of, a liquor licence, to those who reside within one kilometre of the premises.

    “Licencing rules should also offer certainty to those who have obtained a licence but risks having a renewal rejected, such as when a childcare facility or church moves in nearby. My bill ensures licensing authorities must not take such sites into account if the licenced outlet is already established in the area.”

    The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Participation in Licensing Decisions) Amendment Bill can be viewed here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested following Wiri firearms incident

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have arrested and charged a man following a firearms incident in Wiri on the weekend.

    At about 1am on Sunday morning, Police were called to an address on Felicia Place following a report of a disorder incident involving two groups of people.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Kevin Tiernan, Counties Manukau CIB, says shots were reportedly fired from an address before one of the groups left in a vehicle.

    One person was transported to hospital with minor injuries.

    On attendance, Police located and seized a sawn-down shotgun and ammunition.

    “This morning, following a number of enquiries by our team, we located and arrested the alleged offender,” Detective Senior Sergeant Tiernan says.

    “There is no doubt this incident would have been deeply concerning for people who live nearby, so this arrest is a great result for the community.

    “Police take these matters extremely seriously and will continue to hold people to account,” he says.

    A 32-year-old man will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with wounding with reckless disregard and firearms charges.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – Time to Ban Private Sale and Use of Fireworks to Protect New Zealand’s Animals

    Source: Hearts and Science

    Over watching Your Household Pet Shiver in Fear? Now is the Time to Act.

    As Guy Fawkes approaches, pet owners across Aotearoa once again brace for the distress that fireworks bring to their beloved animals. The loud bangs and flashing lights may be a spectacle for some, but for many animals, they are a source of fear and anxiety that can last well beyond the Guy Fawkes period.

    Animates is calling for an end to the private sale and use of fireworks, advocating instead for people to attend controlled public displays to protect pets, farm animals, and wildlife.

    The Pawprint Petition: Ban Private Sales of Fireworks on Behalf of the Animals of NZ is now live at https://pawprintpetition.co.nz and is calling on Kiwis to add their voice — and in a unique world first – pets can sign the petition too by adding a pawprint.

    The petition will be presented to the House of Representatives, urging the Government to ban the private sale and use of fireworks in New Zealand.

    “Each year, our stores and Vet clinics are flooded with stories of stressed-out pets and worried owners,” says Neil Cowie, CEO, Animates. “Fireworks are no longer just a Guy Fawkes problem. Stockpiling leads to fireworks being set off throughout the year, compounding the stress and danger for animals.”

    Native birds and other wildlife, horses, and even zoo animals are not immune to the effects of fireworks. Horses often bolt, leading to injuries and death, and native birds can be severely traumatised and abandon their nests. Fireworks also pose a serious risk to stock animals, making this an issue that extends beyond local neighbourhoods.

    Every year Kiwis try to raise awareness of the impact of fireworks, and private sales, however sales continue. Last year a survey found that nearly three-quarters of Kiwis were in favour of banning backyard fireworks, however despite the long-term debate on the sale of fireworks, no action was taken by the government .*Now is the time to act.

    Angela Mace, owner of Woodlands Dog Retreat, sees the impact firsthand, “Every year, we see dogs shivering in fear or cowering in the corner. Fireworks are terrifying for them, and it’s heartbreaking to watch. We’re urging the public to stand up for our animals and push for a ban on backyard fireworks.”

    According to a report in 2019, 74.4% of people noticed their animals displaying fear of fireworks, with common behaviours including hiding (70.8%), shivering (54.3%), and cowering (44.5%).  Despite these alarming figures, 71.9% of owners with frightened pets did not seek help or treatment for their animals. Instead, many kept their pets indoors (46%) or provided comfort (28.2%) to alleviate their distress.**

    “SPCA has been campaigning for decades for a ban on the private sale and use of fireworks. Fireworks cause significant fear and distress to animals, compromising their welfare,” says SPCA Chief Scientific Officer, Dr Arnja Dale.  “In addition to these harms, wildlife and other animals are sometimes targeted and injured or abused deliberately with fireworks.”

    Help to create a safer, less stressful environment for animals across New Zealand. Sign the world first Pawprint Petition to ban the private sale and use of fireworks here https://pawprintpetition.co.nz, add your name, and if you have a pet add their pawprint, to help bring about change.

    The world first Pawprint Petition: Ban Private Sale and Use of Fireworks on Behalf of the Animals of NZ is proudly bought to kiwis and their pets by Animates.

    Notes:

    *Survey conducted by AA Insurance, in 2023.

    **An article published in Veterinary Magazine, update (2019) on owner perceptions and management of the adverse behavioural effects of fireworks on companion animals https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00480169.2019.1638845

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – High says goodbye, low says hello! Wet weather for the South Island later this working week – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 21st  – Thursday 24th October – Largely settled and fine weather continues to be the main feature over northern and central Aotearoa New Zealand through to Tuesday evening, thanks to a broad area of high pressure. However, a series of weak fronts bring some patchy rain to western and southern parts of the South Island.

    MetService Meteorologist Dom Barry says, “As we head into Wednesday, warm and moist northwesterlies develop over the South Island, bringing rain to western and southern parts of the South Island. Fiordland has a Heavy Rain Watch in force from Wednesday to Thursday, which is likely to be upgraded to an Orange Heavy Rain Warning in the near future.”

    With this warmer air also comes warmer temperatures – many places across the east of the country will see higher than average maximum and minimum temperatures later this week.

    Barry continues, “For the easternmost places like Christchurch, Oamaru, Napier and Hastings, maximums in the mid-twenties can be expected. Overnight temperatures will stay warm as well, in some cases only being a couple of degrees cooler than the day’s maximum, which might make sleeping a struggle for some.”

    A series of fronts move up the South Island on Thursday, bringing rain to southern and western parts of the Island, as the high moves off to the northeast of the country, keeping things mainly fine and dry in the north.

    While the fine, warm weather looks set to hold on for Hawke’s Bay’s anniversary day on Friday, the weather is looking more unsettled elsewhere as rain and wind returns.

    Barry explains, “Low pressure is returning at the end of this week meaning some wetter weather is in store over the long weekend. With some drier weather possible for Labour Day, it is worth checking the forecast to get the best out of the weekend.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Insurance Sector – Commonwealth insurance peaks collaborate on global insurance protection gap

    Source: Insurance Council of NZ

    The peak bodies representing personal and business insurers in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand have called on Commonwealth leaders at this week’s Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa to discuss worsening extreme weather and its impact on national economic and community resilience across the Commonwealth.
    The Association of British Insurers (ABI), the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), and the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ), have jointly written to the Prime Ministers of their respective nations calling for the issue to be put on the agenda as part of the Commonwealth Business Forum on 23 and 24 October.
    This followed a Global Insurance Protection Gap Forum held in Sydney, Australia on Friday 18 October involving the four leaders of the ABI, IBC, ICA, and ICNZ, along with insurers, Australian government representatives, and regulators.
    The four associations collectively represent insurers writing approximately US$200B in gross annual premium, with their members playing an essential role in enabling individuals, communities and businesses to recover from the unexpected and reduce risk across the economies in which they operate.
    Operating in Commonwealth nations, the four organisations and their members face similar regulatory, political, and financial environments, with their governments and regulators having similar tools at their disposal to implement solutions.
    The Global Insurance Protection Gap forum agreed that:
    – As extreme weather intensifies, populations expand and more homes are put in harm’s way, the insurance protection gap will widen.
    – Flood risk is often concentrated in particular areas, but the widespread nature of flood risk is going to increase.
    – Governments and insurers have a critical opportunity to collaborate across global markets to build a shared view of current and future hazard risk.
    – We must stop locking further risk into our economies by building homes in the wrong places.
    – Applying excessive taxes and levies to insurance premiums can directly affect the affordability of insurance coverage.
    Comment attributable to Hannah Gurga, Director General, Association of British Insurers
    Our changing climate represents a real and growing threat to our resilience as a nation and globally. The UK led the way with the creation of Flood Re, which has helped keep insurance accessible for hundreds of thousands of homes. We are now at a crossroads, with a new government in post and a review of the planning system underway. It’s vital that decisions are taken for the long-term and made for the benefit of all. That’s not just investing in flood defences but also changing where and how we build. Action is needed now, not in the future when the challenge will be ever greater.
    Comment attributable to Celyeste Power, President and CEO, Insurance Bureau Canada
    In the span of just five weeks this past summer, Canada saw five natural catastrophes: three major floods, a devastating wildfire, and a destructive hailstorm resulting in $7 billion of insured losses.
    This isn’t an anomaly. It isn’t bad luck. It’s part of an escalating trend of severe weather events that is making Canada a riskier place to live, work and insure.
    I know Canada is not facing these challenges alone and I join with my colleagues in Australia, New Zealand and Britain in our call for meaningful action to reduce the growing physical and financial risks our citizens are facing.
    Comment attributable to Andrew Hall, CEO, Insurance Council of Australia
    More frequent and intense disasters, coupled with ongoing development of areas at high risk of extreme weather and growing asset values, are widening the gap globally between those who can afford insurance in high-risk areas and those who can’t – often leaving society’s least wealthy unable to rebuild and recover when disaster strikes.
    As the bodies representing personal and business insurance providers in the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, we have a unique perspective on this issue.
    Insurers remain steadfastly committed to the policies of derisking as the only sustainable way to reduce the pressure on premiums and close the protection gap: better planning so no more homes are built in harm’s way, stronger buildings that are better able to withstand extreme weather, greater investment in public infrastructure to better protect communities, and an ongoing program of home buybacks where no other mitigation is possible.
    Comment attributable to Kris Faafoi, CEO, Insurance Council of New Zealand
    Our nations share a common history and a future challenge with climate change. By working closely together our insurance representative bodies are committed to doing their bit to help reduce risk from natural hazards and protect our families and communities.
    By reducing the protection gap we keep communities safe, reduce the costs to taxpayers and ratepayers and maintain insurance capacity and affordability.
    Just last year New Zealand experienced just how devastating severe weather events can be on lives, livelihoods and communities. There is much to be gained by working together on these issues across the UK, Australia, Canada and New Zealand through policy work, relationships and our responses to natural disasters.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Rights of man were breached by social workers says Deputy Commissioner 19HDC01187

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    A man’s rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights were breached by two psychiatric social workers, said the Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner in a decision released today. Deborah James said the social workers’ actions represented a serious departure from the appropriate standard of care the man should have received.
    The man lived with schizophrenia and was experiencing deteriorating mental health. After a suicide attempt, the man was taken to a police station for a mental health assessment. There, he was assessed by two psychiatric social workers.
    A risk assessment form was completed but important information was missed such as his suicidal ideation and previous suicide attempts. The social workers also did not give appropriate weight to the fact of the man’s suicide attempt on that day, and they relied too heavily on the man’s self-reporting. Neither social worker consulted a psychiatrist, or other clinician, contacted the man’s wife or his other support worker, or followed the Health New Zealand guidance for safety planning.
    They recorded him as a low risk to himself and others, developed an overnight safety plan which involved medication, refraining from drugs and alcohol, and calling the mental health crisis team if needed, and sent him home. The man took his life later that day.
    The man’s wife complained to HDC saying he should have been taken to hospital and that he was three days overdue for his schizophrenia medication, despite requesting it. The social workers reported that although the man requested his usual injection for managing schizophrenia, they agreed this could wait and be done by a registered nurse the next day.
    One social worker expressed the view that because of her lack of familiarity with the man, she had less responsibility at key parts of his care. Ms James stated “I remain of the view that, as she was present and assisting with the assessment, she could have acted at any point to remedy the failures identified.”
    Deborah James noted that the other social worker was a junior and said, “I consider that if Ms B did not have the requisite skills and training, once she recognised this while assessing Mr A, she should have sought further support, rather than continuing”.
    Ms James made an adverse comment about the clinical note taking of both social workers, and against Health NZ for issues identified in the report with resourcing and training of mental health staff.
    Ms James’ recommendations acknowledged that considerable time had passed since the events and both social workers had undertaken significant extra training in their practice. She encouraged them to further reflect on the events and report back to HDC, including on any further training they have taken up, which they both did. She also acknowledged Health NZ had made several relevant and appropriate changes in its policies and procedures, so made no further recommendations. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Post birth care of baby boy breaches the Code 22HDC00236

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    In a report published today, Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Rose Wall has found Health NZ Te Toka Tumai Auckland breached the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code) for failures in the care of a baby boy in his first hours post-delivery.
    The baby, born at Auckland hospital at full term gestation, required transfer to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). At 10.5 hours post birth he was assessed as having mild hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy [1] (HIE) with some features of moderate HIE. Months later he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy.
    At the time of the incident, national guidelines outlined that standard practice was to manage babies at high risk of HIE after birth by conducting an initial neurological assessment, followed by subsequent ‘serial’ observations every hour for six hours.
    In this case, the initial Baby Newborn Record, which includes neurological testing, was only partially completed and there was no documentation of neurological assessment in the admission note to the NICU.
    The junior registrar who attended the birth and accompanied the infant to NICU should have completed this documentation. She told HDC that neurological checks would likely have been performed as part of managing other procedures and that, due to a heavy and complex clinical workload that day, there had not been an opportunity to review paperwork.
    Ms Wall accepted that the initial neurological examination was likely done, and made an adverse comment about the registrar’s incomplete documentation, noting the importance of ensuring a full and complete picture of the baby’s health be available for all others responsible for his care from that point on.
    Ms Wall found that the required subsequent hourly monitoring did not occur.
    “On review of the available information, it is apparent that this baby did not receive any further specific neurological assessment or serial monitoring in line with his risk, as required under the national guidelines,” said Ms Wall.
    Although the registrar was responsible for the baby’s care, Ms Wall considered the failure was attributable to Health NZ at an organisational level.
    Ms Wall said Health NZ had a duty to ensure that the services the baby received complied with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards. She found Health NZ breached the Code for failing to provide an appropriate standard of care | Tautikanga.
    The breach covered several shortcomings in care:
    – The registrar was not provided with encephalopathy training in a timely manner.
    – The orientation booklet did not include information about neonatal encephalopathy, or refer to specific guidelines to guide practice.
    – There were no internal policies and procedures in place to ensure that babies at high risk of HIE were managed and monitored using serial Sarnat scoring, in accordance with national guidance on neonatal encephalopathy in place at the time.
    “I am critical that Health NZ did not have in place sufficient policies and procedures to support its staff adequately regarding the baby’s neurological assessments and monitoring,” Ms Wall said.
    Since the events, HNZ has made changes, including the development of Auckland-specific protocols and processes and an Auckland guideline for managing babies at risk of encephalopathy, along with changes to orientation and training (including changes to the orientation booklet).
    Taking into account the changes already made, Ms Wall made several further recommendations for Health NZ and the registrar.
    [1] Disturbed neurological function in the earliest days of life. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Save the Children statement: ‘Rohingya refugees must be given humanitarian assistance and protection’

    Source: Save the Children

    Save the Children is calling for Indonesia and other countries in Asia to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees after a boat carrying more than 100 Rohingya, including women and children, was sighted off the coast of Indonesia.
    The wooden fishing boat is carrying more than 100 Rohingya refugees according to local authorities and fishermen and is anchored around 5 kilometers off the coast of South Aceh[1]. This is the first boat carrying Rohingya refugees to arrive in Indonesia since March 2024.
    It was not immediately clear where the boat has come from. Earlier in the week local fishermen and authorities said they had discovered in the sea the body of a woman thought to be a Rohingya woman, but it was not immediately clear if the woman was a passenger on the boat.
    From November 2023 to date, at least 15 boats carrying more than 2,000 Rohingya refugees (73% of whom are women and children) landed in Aceh and North Sumatra, Indonesia, a staggering 298% increase from the 574 people who arrived in 2022.[2]
    While many have since departed Indonesia, around 1,000 remain in informal and temporary accommodation in Aceh, North Sumatra, and Riau Provinces.[3]
    Fadli Usman, Humanitarian Director at Save the Children in Indonesia, said:
    “Nobody should have to put their lives at risk to make perilous journeys by sea in search of a better life, but this is sadly the reality for Rohingya refugees who have undertaken dangerous sea journeys, often in boats that are not sea worthy, to seek protection, to access livelihoods and education, and to reunite with families.
    “Indonesia has displayed strong solidarity and humanity in the past by allowing Rohingya refugees to disembark and should continue to do so. We’re also calling on governments in Asia, including Indonesia, to honour their international commitments and provide humanitarian assistance to Rohingya refugees, including children. Around 40% of Rohingya arrivals in Indonesia so far this year have been children. Among other horrors, these children are at risk of physical abuse, malnutrition, gender-based violence and exploitation. No child should have to go through the ordeals that Rohingya children do during these journeys. We must ensure that the Rohingya are not forgotten.”
    Save the Children is also calling on the international community to take on their share of responsibility, by stepping up financial support for Rohingya refugees arriving on boats to Indonesia and other countries in the region.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace raises alarm over looming public health crisis in Canterbury

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace is again raising the alarm over what it has labelled a ‘public health crisis’ in Canterbury after a drinking water testing event in Oxford on Sunday found more bore water supplies tested over the maximum allowable value of nitrate in drinking water.
    The Greenpeace testing also found that the Darfield public water supply is now averaging around 6 mg/L of nitrate in drinking water – 1 milligram per litre more than when the organisation last tested the Darfield public water supply six months ago. Additionally, the Oxford Rural 1 public supply is still consistently testing at levels associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.
    Greenpeace freshwater spokesperson Will Appelbe says, “Everyone should be able to safely drink the water coming out of their kitchen tap, without fear of getting sick. But sadly, the samples we tested in Oxford are not outliers, and many people in Canterbury are drinking water with levels of nitrate that put them at risk of increased health impacts.
    “People in rural Canterbury are facing a looming public health crisis that’s been caused by the dairy industry. Nitrate contamination is a result of diffuse pollution from the intensive dairy industry. Put simply, there are too many cows in Canterbury, and nitrate from the oversized dairy herd is making its way into people’s drinking water.
    “To compound the problem, right now, the Luxon Government is stripping away protections for lakes, rivers, and communities’ drinking water under the Resource Management Act.
    “This is damning evidence that the Government is not acting in the best interests of rural communities – and in fact is knowingly putting them at increased risk of potential health impacts that include bowel cancer and preterm birth,” says Appelbe
    A growing body of science has shown that long-term exposure to nitrate in drinking water at levels as low as 1 mg/L can increase the risk of developing bowel cancer. Additionally, the New Zealand College of Midwives advises that pregnant people should consider accessing an alternative water source if their water supply is testing at or above 5 mg/L, due to scientific evidence indicating that this level of nitrate contamination increases the risk of preterm birth.
    “Nitrate contamination will get worse before it gets better – and that’s all the more reason to take action now to stop the pollution at its source,” says Appelbe.
    “That means phasing out synthetic nitrogen fertiliser use, and it also means less irrigation and fewer cows on farms. If Luxon’s Government won’t take these actions, then regional councils like Environment Canterbury must do so. It’s their responsibility to protect the residents of towns like Darfield and Oxford who are at increased risk of adverse health impacts due to nitrate contamination.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ heads to Samoa for Commonwealth talks

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Foreign Minister Winston Peters will be among world leaders travelling to Apia this week for a meeting of the 56-nation Commonwealth.

    This is the first time the two-yearly Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) is hosted by Samoa, representing a great opportunity to profile the Pacific to the world.

    “CHOGM is a fantastic opportunity to connect with other Commonwealth leaders,” Mr Luxon says.

    “In these uncertain geopolitical times, it is important to meet face-to-face to talk about how we can be more resilient in the face of global challenges.”

    Approximately 460 New Zealand personnel will be deployed in Samoa. This includes around 260 Defence personnel, 100 Police, and 50 medical specialists including doctors, nurses and paramedics, as well as five ambulances, one naval vessel, three NZDF helicopters and two explosive ordnance detector dogs.

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters says this year’s CHOGM will provide a platform for smaller countries, and the Pacific region.

    “We hope that Samoa’s hosting this year will put the Pacific region and its specific concerns at the forefront of delegates’ minds,” Mr Peters says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fred Graham work a tribute to home town

    Source: Auckland Council

    Celebrated artist Fred Graham has unveiled a gift to the town he loves in the form of a sculpture carrying its name.

    Waiuku becomes the latest addition to Auckland’s public art collection after its unveiling on the Glenbrook-Waiuku Road / Cornwall Road intersection.

    It expresses his aroha (love) and whakawhetai (gratitude) for the town where he has lived, worked and raised his family with wife Norma for more than 30 years.

    Franklin Local Board member Sharlene Druyven says Graham (Ngāti Korokī Kahukura, Tainui) is internationally and nationally celebrated and is a taonga of the area.

    Now 96, he is still being commissioned – especially in Waikato – where his ancestry anchors him, with Waiuku acknowledging Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua history in the rohe (area) and the immigrants who have made it their home.

    Based on the letter W, three of the four inner panels feature the koru, honouring those involved in the story of how Waiuku got its name.

    Brothers Tamakae and Tamakou vied for the hand of Waikato chieftainess Te Atairehia – after whom Ngati Te Ata are named – and who is represented by a fourth koru.

    Tamakae was the provider, Tamakou the orator. Tamakou was first to meet Te Atairehia but she requested Tamakae be presented. He was working in the kumara gardens and had to be washed in the wai (water) and uku (a type of white clay) at the stream that flows into the Manukau Harbour before he could meet her.

    He won her heart and they married, and from then on, the area was known as Waiuku.

    Fred Graham’s work is held in international collections.

    Graham was born in 1928 in Arapuni, going on to Taita College where his talent was recognised, a gift nurtured at Ardmore Teachers Training College.

    From there he developed an interest in sculpture, teaching himself to carve in wood and stone, and later using steel – a cornerstone of Waiuku with its iron sand and mill.

    He was part of a collective that ran a Te Tai Tokerau (Northland) initiative in rural Māori communities with artists such as Cliff Whiting and Paratene Matchitt known as the ‘Class of ’66’ after a Hamilton show called ‘Contemporary Māori Painting and Sculpture’.

    Friendships with art greats Ralph Hotere and Muru Walters were also established during his early days, while his own works fused Māori and European cultures, often combining wood, stone and modern materials in commissions displayed across Aotearoa.

    “Fred is known for drawing on Māori traditions, but that is in the art world. In Waiuku he is better known for his gentleness, kindness and wisdom,” Druyven says.

    “This is a man who has walked alongside greats of the art world but who is humble, who celebrates what matters to him, whanau and whenua.

    “Very few of us can say we are friends with an art great, and the fact he’s just Fred to so many here in Waiuku tells you everything you need to know.”

    Ngaati Te Ata kaumatua Riki Minhinnick leads the blessing of the site.

    His son Brett followed his own path, also becoming an acclaimed artist and exhibiting currently with his father and other prominent Māori artists at this year’s Venice Biennale.

    Fred Graham received the Te Waka Toi Te Tohu Aroha mō Te Arikinui Dame Te Atairangikaahu Award in 2017 and a year later the Arts Foundation Icon Award and was also made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit.

    The 5.2 metre tall 1.4 tonne stainless steel work was made in Waiuku by retired engineer Rex Erikson, a long-term friend and collaborator.

    Waiuku is the second major Graham installation in the town. In 2020 his work recognising NZ Steel’s 50th anniversary in 2015, was unveiled at Centennial Park – Lions Lake to locals.

    That eight-metre steel statue features triangular panels depicting the three Franklin sites that converge to see steel forged at the mill, Taharoa, Waikato North Head and Glenbrook.

    Fifty birds adorn the panels, the cut-outs recognising the lives of those connected to the mill who have passed, and the shaped birds the lives of those now associated with the mill, and the whanau supported by that relationship.

    Inside the triangle, pipes can be seen, honouring the pipeline that sees iron sand shaped into steel.

    Atop the structure three birds rise into the sky, the past, present and the future.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Progress towards Auckland’s climate goals puts resilience at the forefront

    Source: Auckland Council

    From increasing public transport options, to decarbonising the council’s operations, to community food initiatives and building resilience to flood events, Auckland Council is delivering tangible, positive climate outcomes for Aucklanders. That’s according to Auckland Council’s Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan 2024 progress snapshot.

    Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the council’s Policy and Planning Committee applauds the progress already made but reminds us that to maintain momentum and achieve our climate goals requires continued commitment from all of us.

    “As a region, the scale and speed of climate action needed to make an impact on resilience continues to grow and will require increasing levels of cohesion and investment across both government and our council.”

    Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan is Auckland Council’s long-term approach to climate action. It sets out eight priority action areas to deliver our goals to reduce carbon pollution and plan in ways that prevent further climate disruption.

    Kataraina Maki, Auckland Council’s Chief Sustainability Officer, believes the council plays a crucial role in forward-thinking to make caring for everyone in a climate-disrupted future a reality.

    “Imagine the lives we can all live when, across our communities, we are empowered to take the bold climate actions we need, and know are feasible. Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan provides long term solutions to make wise decisions now that will prevent further disruption to the climate later for future generations.

    “Kia kotahi, Auckland Council supports our communities to unite, work together, and adapt to low-carbon, climate-prepared lifestyles to meet peoples’ needs and make our city better for everyone, especially those most vulnerable to climate disruption.”

    The annual progress report highlights the council’s contribution towards the implementation of Te Tāruke-a-Tāwhiri: Auckland’s Climate Plan based on the levels of actions that are completed, in progress, and still required in reducing emissions and improving resilience to climate change. It also provides highlights of progress and key challenges for each priority in the plan along with a summary of key initiatives planned for the year ahead.

    Key highlights of 2023/2024 report include:

    • Collecting and diverting 20,000 tonnes of food scraps from landfill, exceeding the target of 18,000 tonnes for year one
    • Investment in public transport to increase patronage up to 100 million boardings by March 2025
    • Issuing three new green bonds increasing total green bond holdings to NZ $3.7 billion
    • The Auckland Council climate grant funded 32 community-led projects, with approximately a third going to underserved communities
    • Approximately 750,000 trees were planted across the region as part of the Urban Ngahere programme
    • Several projects including Auckland Art Gallery and Auckland Domain Wintergardens have switched from gas to electricity and alternative energy sources, saving money and reducing emissions.

    A planted area and stormwater stream beside the motorway in South Auckland.

    Building resilience to future extreme weather events top priority for the council

    In response to the 2023 extreme weather events, Auckland Council has partnered with the government to implement a $2 billion flood recovery and resilience package. As severe weather events happen more frequently, the council is preparing for the additional water we know to expect and preventing further flood risks through financial support for affected homeowners, supporting community-led responses and accelerating crucial repairs to affected infrastructure.

    The Making Space for Water programme has been integral to this work where $820 million has been given to help build resilience, repair affected stormwater assets and reduce the impacts of future intense rainfall.

    Councillor Hills says that rebuilding our infrastructure after big flooding and climate events can prevent worsening climate disruption.

    “Rampant carbon pollution has trapped heat like a blanket in our atmosphere and warmed the oceans, leading to a disrupted climate and more extreme weather events. A lot more water is one of the effects,” he says.

    “Auckland Council prioritises working alongside mana whenua, communities, and infrastructure experts to redesign our city to be more spongy to soak up this extra water and reduce heat in our neighbourhoods.

    “By uncovering our natural waterways and enhancing and maintaining our stormwater systems through programmes like Making Space for Water, we’re giving water space to flow and rise to build resilience and reduce the impacts of future flooding.”

    An electric bus on Waiheke Island.

    Zero emission transport

    Auckland’s public transport network is becoming fully electric. A total of 180 buses are now zero emissions in the fleet, making it the largest fleet of zero-emission buses of any city in Australasia. Investment in the transition from fossil fuels to lower emissions has also seen the construction of the first low emission ferries. The Climate Action Transport Targeted Rate has also increased our frequent bus network to forty routes in total, the most recent addition is the 94, which is seeing almost 400 new users each day.

    Te Herenga Waka O Orewa Marae has received funding to repair flooring in the wharekai, an engineering design to improve stormwater management.

    Mana whenua partnerships

    Auckland Council supports leadership of mana whenua who have expertise in living in harmony with natural systems to care for their rohe and tāngata, using mātauranga Māori to guide how te taiao is valued and protected. The council supports climate resilience programmes across seven Auckland marae as part of the Resilient Marae Programme, and rangatahi Māori-led responses to the environment such as Mātātahi Taio to deliver climate action outcomes using traditional Māori knowledge systems and practices.

    About the progress snapshot

    The council group this year reports that based on the current allocation of funding for greenhouse gas emissions reduction, meeting the 2050 net zero target set in Te Tāruke-ā-Tāwhiri is becoming more challenging within timeframe and financial constraints. Regional emissions are also starting to rise, after they temporarily decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    The report identifies that we all face big challenges in a climate-disrupted future. Better, resilient lives for everyone are possible through bold community climate planning, and a sustained collective commitment and effort from government, the council, businesses, communities and individuals to climate action.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name Release, fatal water incident, Manukau Harbour

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can now confirm the name of the man who died after a boat capsized in the Manukau Harbour on Sunday 20 October.

    He was 52-year-old Parma Siwam Samy, also known as Vimal, of Māngere East.

    Police would like to extend our condolences to his whānau at this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing and his death will be referred to the Coroner.

    Police would like to thank the members of the public who assisted with the rescue.

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Breaking ground on the first new Road of National Significance

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Work has kicked off on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway Road of National Significance (RoNS) as the Government continues to move at pace to deliver infrastructure that enables Kiwis and freight to get to where they want to go quickly and safely, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “The Government is keeping its promise to New Zealanders to deliver a new generation of RoNS across the country that reduce congestion, unlock land for thousands of new houses, and boost economic growth as we rebuild the economy to reduce the cost of living. Delivering the infrastructure this country needs is a key part of our plan to rebuild the economy and boost productivity,” Mr Brown says. 

    “Early works have now started on the Hawke’s Bay Expressway RoNS to four-lane this critical corridor that carries 29,000 vehicles a day and links freight to one of New Zealand’s largest ports. The growing population and economy mean that the central section of this road is reaching capacity at peak times. Starting work now allows the NZTA to maximise the 2025/2026 construction season and bring forward the construction of this project by 12 to 15 months.”

    The Government is prioritising 17 RoNS which were highlighted in the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport, with seven new projects to begin procurement, enabling works and construction in the next three years.

    “New Zealand has an infrastructure deficit, and our Government is taking action to fix it. It’s not enough to just talk about projects and write endless business cases. Kiwis voted for a Government that would get on and build the infrastructure that our country needs. That is what we are doing, and we’re pleased to be able to show action within our first year. 

    “Four-laning the Hawke’s Bay Expressway will unleash national and regional economic growth and productivity by reducing travel times, increasing resilience, and improving safety for motorists. 

    “The Hawke’s Bay Expressway was critical to the resilience of the region during Cyclone Gabrielle, with other routes being cut off. This Road of National Significance will increase capacity, resilience, support residential growth, and provide a boost to the local economy by helping move freight more quickly to the Napier Port. 

    “NZTA is prioritising the Taradale Road to Pākowhai Road section of the Hawke’s Bay Expressway as it is the most congested part of the road, and will help ensure more reliable journey times for commuters and freight operators in the Bay. 

    “The Government will be delivering the benefits of better road infrastructure to Kiwis and businesses across the country, as progress ramps up on several other Roads of National Significance projects. Takitimu North Link Stage 1 is already underway, Ōtaki to North of Levin will begin construction next year, and the Northland Expressway is currently undergoing geotechnical work. 

    “The RoNS projects previously built by National are some of New Zealand’s most successful State Highway corridors, reducing congestion and improving safety. Moving at pace to build a new generation of RoNS signals our Government’s focus on prioritising investments that deliver real value to commuters and businesses.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Lower speed limits on SH1 Whangārei to Te Hana, SH14 Dargaville to Whangārei, SH15 Maungatapere

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    New speed limits will soon come into effect on short sections of the following state highways:

    • SH1 Whangārei to Te Hana – changes in place from w/c 21 October 2024
    • SH14 Dargaville to Whangārei – changes in place from w/c 29 October 2024 
    • SH15 Maungatapere School – changes in place from w/c 29 October 2024 

    Note: All other approved changes on SH15 were implemented on 13 May 2024

    The changes we are making on SH1, SH14 and SH15 focus on short sections of state highway, including schools, and involved extensive community engagement and input prior to approval.

    School speed changes include new electronic variable speed limit signs outside five schools to reduce speeds during pick up and drop off times.

    For more information, please visit: 

    Speed management in Northland and Auckland(external link)

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police appeal to public following hit and run

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police investigating a hit and run incident in Pukekohe last week, which left a man critically injured, are appealing to the public for information.

    At about 2.47am on Friday morning, Police were called after a member of the public located a man injured and unconscious lying on Wellington Street.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor, Counties Manukau South CIB, says the victim was transported to hospital in a critical condition, where he remains.

    “As part of Operation Gain, our investigations team is actively making enquiries to identify and locate the driver and vehicle involved.

    “We are asking for the public’s assistance for any information which may help us to help us locate the driver or the vehicle involved.

    “Anyone in the area who may have witnessed this incident or who has any information – including CCTV – is asked to contact Police immediately.”

    Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says it’s likely the vehicle would have been damaged during this incident.

    “If you are the owner of this vehicle, please contact us.

    “A number of people have come forward with information and spoken to Police since this incident, and we ask anyone who has not yet spoken to us to get in touch.”

    Information can be provided to Police by making an online report at 105.police.govt.nz using “Update Report” or by calling 105.

    Please reference the file number 241018/8618.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Waikato fire burning through swampland

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    A 20 hectare scrub fire is burning in swampland off Island Block Road, Waikato this afternoon.
    Fire and Emergency New Zealand was alerted to the fire around 1.15pm.
    Incident Commander Shane Bromley says four fire trucks, five tankers and two helicopters are responding to the fire, with another helicopter on its way.
    “The fire is semi-contained but not controlled and we’ve put fire trucks in place to protect three houses as a precaution,” Shane Bromley says.
    “We are also working to protect the nearby Whangamarino Wetland and expect to have a crew at the fire ground overnight.”
    There will be another update at 7pm tonight.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – Two containers successfully removed from reef after HMNZS Manawanui sinking

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force
     
    New Zealand and Samoan teams have today removed a second shipping container from the reef off Samoa’s Upolu, one of three that came off the sunken Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui on 6 October.
     
    The first of these 10ft shipping containers was successfully removed on Saturday.
     
    Of the two that have now been removed, the first was empty while the second contained food. The third and final container is empty and damaged, and will be removed next.
     
    “We are planning for the removal tomorrow, if the conditions are right. It’s important that this work is carried out safely and with care,” NZDF Senior National Representative Commodore Andrew Brown says.
     
    The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is working with a local contractor, ARK Marine, to remove these containers from the reef off the south-west coast of Upolu.
     
    The work is being carried out with the approval of the Samoan authorities, and under the direct supervision of Samoan officials.
     
    Commodore Brown says daily monitoring of the vessel and shoreline will continue during CHOGM.
     
    “We will be conducting one dive, one drone flight and one beach patrol daily. The timing will be coordinated so as not to disrupt the event.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Delay to retirement village review won’t help residents

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    “Retirement Village Residents Association members have asked for three priority areas they want action on; maintenance and repairs, disputes settlements and fairer fees, and repayments on exiting a village. Timelines for review set by this Government are unacceptable and will leave residents in the lurch for years,” Labour seniors spokesperson Ingrid Leary said. 

    “Nearly all the background work has been done. Leaving any changes to the Act to the next parliamentary term will see many of the current residents passed on, time is on no one’s side.

    “Delays will only benefit the operators, not the residents.

    “Labour started this review process which now needs to be completed with haste by the Government. More than 20 years since the original Act was implemented.  

    “Recent comments by the Executive Director for Retirement Village Association Michelle Palmer in the media indicate the industry has been encouraging its members to make changes.

    “Clearly the time is right for this Government to act with both residents and operators primed and ready to resolve these long overdue concerns,” Ingrid Leary said.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government to Clarify s70 Discharge Consent to Provide Certainty for Councils and Primary Sector

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has announced its intention to provide certainty on discharge rules under section 70 of the Resource Management Act (RMA) for primary producers, and councils – enabling permitted discharge activities to be managed in a practical way, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay confirmed today.

    “The clarification will be introduced via the second Resource Management Amendment Bill. It will safeguard permitted activities and restore certainty for councils and the primary sector around diffuse discharges.

    “The recent High Court decision threatens to require consents for previously permitted discharges into waterways, imposing costs that would hinder the primary sector’s ability to improve freshwater quality over time,” Mr McClay says.

    “The High Court decision will also significantly increase the consenting workload of councils, affecting clearance timeframes and consent backlogs.

    “The work progressed through the second Resource Management Amendment Bill will provide legal clarity to councils and applicants so that they can plan ahead and ensure that key operations in the primary sector can continue without disruption.

    “Our goal is to produce clear rules that unlock the double dividend of higher growth and productivity alongside positive environmental outcomes.

    “The Government is committed to providing the settings regional councils and the primary sector need to support New Zealand’s economic growth while maintaining environmental standards.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police appealing for information following sudden death in Dunedin

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Dunedin Police investigating the sudden death of a cyclist are appealing for information from the public.

    At around 3.30pm on Sunday 20 October, Police were notified of an incident where a cyclist had been found deceased on Portobello Road.

    Police would like to speak to anyone who may have seen the cyclist in the Portobello and Taiaroa Head areas between 2pm and 4pm.

    The cyclist was wearing black and grey bike shorts, a blue t-shirt with a bright yellow ‘EUROBIKE’ logo on the back with a black long sleeve polypropylene underneath.

    The cyclist was also wearing an orange bicycle helmet and was using a silver road bike with blue front forks.

    The death has been referred to the Coroner.

    If you have information that could assist Police in our investigation, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 241021/8589.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Retirement Commission – NEW FINANCIAL EDUCATION PARTNERSHIP HELPS RANGATAHI LEARN ABOUT MONEY

    Source: Retirement Commission

    Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools, Inland Revenue and School Kit have joined forces to bring more innovative new learning resources to teach high school students about money.

    Newly designed interactive resource packs on tax and compound interest will be sent to around 13,000 year 9 and 10 students throughout New Zealand over the next 12 months.

    Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission Learning Lead, Yasmin Frazer says this partnership extends the reach of Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools, the Retirement Commission’s free financial education programme.

    “It’s critical the next generation of New Zealanders can access financial knowledge through the education system, and this provides teachers further resources to engage their students with money,” she says.

    “We have been providing resources and upskilling teachers and Kaiako through our Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools programme since 2019, with 89% of New Zealand schools and kura now using it.

    “Partnering with School Kit has meant we can offer more ways to teach kids about money as well as supporting us to support more teachers to learn more about financial education themselves.”

    The kits can be incorporated into a variety of subjects, comprising English, Math, Business or Social Studies and combine a mix of digital and physical resources including encouraging use of the practical tools available on the Sorted website.

    The tax focused kit teaches students about tax in a way that is compelling and meaningful so they can hit the ground running when they start working, it also delves into how it contributes to areas like health and education.

    Inland Revenue Te Tari Taake Community Compliance Leader, Cy Lochead says, “We want everyone in New Zealand Aotearoa to understand how tax works and what it’s used for, as it’s an important part of our working lives.”

    “Partnering with Te Ara Ahunga Ora to develop financial literacy through the education system has created an opportunity to develop that understanding right from the start.

    “We’re excited to see the School Kit released, creating new opportunities to engage with the taxation module content.”

    Notes:

    About Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools

    Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission launched Te whai hua – kia ora, Sorted in Schools in 2019, which now has 78% New Zealand secondary schools and 81% of kura taking part.

    It is the first government-backed financial education programme fully aligned with the curriculum, so can be taught as part of day-to-day classes in subjects as diverse as maths, social sciences, technology, English and even health. The resources cover topics ranging from debt and money management to KiwiSaver and insurance and include learning and assessment materials for NCEA unit and achievement standards.

    More than 300 resources, designed by teachers for teachers, are already available through the website sortedinschools.org.nz, and we deliver free professional development workshops and webinars to help teachers feel confident to teach the subject. Ask your secondary school if you haven’t seen them using it.

    In 2022/23 68% of schools and kura have used Te whai hua – kia ora and 97% of teachers value Te whai hua – kia ora as a financial capability programme they like to use. And it’s all free.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: A plan for growth in Auckland’s rural south is coming

    Source: Auckland Council

    From 29 October, Aucklanders will be asked to have their say on a strategy for the region’s southern rural area. The Southern Rural Strategy sets out how the area will accommodate a growing population, while enabling industries like farming and food production to thrive.  

    Councillor for Franklin ward, Andy Baker, chairs the political working group overseeing the development of the strategy.  

    “A lot of the food eaten around the country comes from the rural parts of south Auckland – the unique climate, soils and proximity to markets, airport and port see major growth in our under-glass and kiwifruit industries. We rely on these, and other vital industries found in this region, every day.”  

    “The Franklin area is growing and is expected to become home to another 100,000 people over the next 30 years. This is great news for our economy, and means we need a strategy to manage the valuable – and vulnerable – natural resources found here. People all over New Zealand enjoy the produce from this area, so, we need to get the balance right as we develop to maintain our horticultural and agricultural advantage.”  

    “Growth needs to be at the right place and right time, with infrastructure in place to support new development. We also need to develop employment at the same time as housing so people can live and work in the same locality. The best places for that are in our existing towns and villages.   

    Which areas does the strategy cover?  

    The strategy covers the full Franklin ward. It also includes some rural land from the Howick and Papakura local board areas.  

    Why do we need this strategy? 

    There are many different factors at play in Auckland’s southern rural area. The temperate climate and fertile soils make it ideal for rural production, one of New Zealand’s primary food production areas, and a significant contributor to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). It’s also an area where significant urban development is taking place to accommodate the increasing population.  

    The Southern Rural Strategy is being coordinated to manage each of these factors, to ensure they fit together in harmony. This will allow the area to be developed sustainably, as it needs to be, and ensure it continues to evolve as a key economic and environmental resource for the future.  

    Importantly, the strategy will reflect the views of communities in the area.  

    Where will growth happen in this area? 

    Drury, Opaheke, Pukekohe, Waiuku are identified as towns where the most growth will occur, mainly through in-fill development and expansion to future urban areas. Development has already started in some of these towns, supported by water infrastructure, roads, and are expected to have new railway stations from 2025. 

    Deputy chair of Auckland’s Policy and Planning Committee, Councillor Angela Dalton, also sits on the political steering group for development of the Southern Rural Strategy. She says it is anticipated that these areas will grow over the next 30 years.    

    “Drury and Pukekohe have long-term plans for how they will expand over time – so the communities that live here now have had a chance to say how they would like their towns to grow.” 

    “Importantly, the investment in infrastructure to support the growth happening in these towns is already planned through a mix of council budgets, government investments and development contributions.” 

    When can I have my say? 

    You will be able to have your say on the Southern Rural Strategy from Tuesday 29 October until Sunday 1 December 2024.  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Marlborough Sounds blue cod review – measures to reduce fishing pressure and improve fishery health

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Have your say

    Fisheries New Zealand is seeking your ideas and feedback on proposed changes to the blue cod (rāwaru) seasonal closure in the Marlborough Sounds (Te Tauihu-o-te-waka) to reduce fishing pressure.

    Your input is also sought in developing a package of wider potential measures to ensure long-term sustainability of the fishery. Submissions can be made by email or post using the form provided, before 5pm on 1 December 2024.

    Public drop-in information sessions

    During consultation, we will be holding public drop-in sessions to present information, answer questions, and assist you with making a submission. These will be hosted by Fisheries New Zealand officials and Marlborough Sounds Blue Cod Technical Group members at:

    • Tasman Bay Cruising Club in Nelson/Whakatū on Tuesday, 12 November (4.30pm to 7.30pm) 
    • Queen Charlotte Yacht Club in Picton/Waitohi on Thursday, 14 November ( 4.30pm to 7.30pm).

    About the proposed changes and potential measures

    Marlborough Sounds blue cod are a taonga which play an important role in the local ecosystem, and support an iconic fishery for many Kiwis.

    Over the years, pressure on the stock has increased, with high fishing effort and cumulative stressors such as sedimentation, benthic disturbance, and marine heatwaves.

    Independent surveys and reports from many fishers and long-time residents demonstrate low levels of abundance, and a growing community concern about the sustainability of the stock. In 2021, a potting survey indicated that significant overfishing is very likely occurring and retrospectively has been for a significant time.

    In response, the then Minister for Oceans and Fisheries in 2022 decided to cut the commercial catch limit, or TACC, and form a multi-sector group to identify measures to reduce fishing pressure.

    This group (the Marlborough Sounds Blue Cod Technical Group) met throughout 2023, and provided the Minister with a report of their findings. FNZ is now consulting on a potential change to the seasonal closure in the Marlborough Sounds, and seeking input in developing a package of wider measures to ensure long-term sustainability.

    Consultation documents:

    Summary of proposals:

    Proposal to extend the seasonal closure (from December 2025):

    • Extending the seasonal closure to all blue cod take, from 1 September – 19 December currently, to 31 December, 5 January, or 15 January.

    Potential measures that could be considered for a wider package

    • Spawning recovery areas, to rebuild spawning populations across the Sounds.
    • Reducing the combined daily bag limit from 20 finfish currently, to 10 or 6 finfish.
    • A refreshed educational campaign – how can we maximise outreach and provide the right information for fishers to minimise their impacts?
    • Options to enhance fine-scale recreational fishing information – voluntary catch reporting, survey mailing lists, additional monitoring, or any other ideas.
    • Tools to mitigate predation and release mortality – what is your experience with these issues and potential solutions?

    Related information:

    Plans and strategies

    Rules and legislation

    Science and monitoring

    Making your submission

    Fisheries New Zealand welcomes your views on the topics above and encourages you to use the submission template provided with your rationale and supporting. You can make your submission anytime before consultation closes on Sunday, 1 December 2024, at 5pm.

    Submission form [DOCX, 84 KB]

    Email your submission to FMsubmissions@mpi.govt.nz

    While we prefer email, you can also post written submissions to:

    Marlborough Sounds Blue Cod Review
    Fisheries New Zealand
    Private Bag 14
    Nelson 7042
    New Zealand

    If you require hard copies of the consultation document or any other information, email FMsubmissions@mpi.govt.nz

    Submissions are public information

    Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

    People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

    If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Foreign Minister completes successful visit to Thailand

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Foreign Minister Winston Peters wrapped up a successful programme of engagements in Bangkok today, where he met with Thai political and business leaders. 

    “Thailand is an important economic and security partner for New Zealand. We are seriously focused on achieving our joint ambition of lifting our relationship to a ‘Strategic Partnership’ by 2026,” Mr Peters says. 

    “High-level contact between our two countries is key to taking our relationship to the next level. That is why we have agreed to re-establish regular and substantial Foreign Minister consultations. 

    “We look forward to hosting Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa in New Zealand for the first of these consultations in the coming months.” 

    While in Thailand, Mr Peters also met with Deputy Prime Minister, and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, Thai political and business leaders, and New Zealand alumni. He also witnessed the signing of three Memorandums of Understanding between New Zealand and Thai businesses. 

    Thailand is the seventh member of ASEAN that Mr Peters has visited this year. 

    Mr Peters travels to Jakarta today to represent New Zealand at the inauguration of President-elect Prabowo Subianto. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious Crash, Coronation Road, Morrinsville

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are responding to a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Coronation Road and Bank Street, Morrinsville.

    The crash was reported around 6:50pm.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

    The road is closed and diversions are in place at the intersections of Bank Street, Williams Avenue and North Road.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Removing roadblocks to building infrastructure

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New Zealand has a widely acknowledged infrastructure deficit, which is holding us back socially, economically and environmentally, Land Information Minister Chris Penk says.

    “If we want to improve our productivity and lift our standard of living, we need to fix our pipes, increase the capacity of our schools and hospitals and build more houses, roads and renewable energy sources. 

    “To help achieve this we are reviewing the Public Works Act, which is a fundamental piece of legislation that allows the Government to acquire land for critical public infrastructure. 

    “Having not been substantially amended since 1988, the Act is no longer fit-for-purpose, and it is time to make changes to improve its fairness and efficiency.

    “An independent expert advisory panel has carried out a targeted review and identified instances where the Act lacks clarity and commonsense.

    “For example, all infrastructure projects that use the Act must meet a high threshold of being of ‘national and regional significance’. While a high threshold is important for protecting private property rights, there are many worthy and necessary projects that are vital for a particular region or community but may not be nationally significant. 

    “Similarly, building large-scale modern infrastructure often creates a knock-on effect where existing infrastructure must be upgraded or moved to accommodate the new project. For example, a new state highway often requires new regional roads to connect to it. Or widening a road may mean moving power pylons. 

    “This necessitates working across government agencies at both a central and regional level and acquiring land for direct and indirect purposes, which the current Act poorly enables.

    “If we can make it simpler to acquire land for critical projects, then we reduce the likelihood of budget blow-outs and delays and can get on with growing our economy and delivering the public services Kiwis deserve.

    “I’m looking forward to considering the review’s findings and recommendations in more detail and expect to announce policy decisions about changes to the Act by the end of the year, with a view of the Public Works Act Amendment Bill being introduced to Parliament in mid-2025.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ACT challenges Brian Tamaki’s racist, ignorant campaign targeting immigrants

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT Ethnic Communities spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar is challenging Brian Tamaki after Indian New Zealanders and other ethnic communities raised concerns about a new campaign to “Make NZ Kiwi Again” which targets immigrants.

    “I have been approached by representatives of ethnic communities in New Zealand alarmed to see Brian Tamaki is promoting conspiracy theories about an ‘Indian invasion’. In a long video tirade, Tamaki rails against Hindu temples, Indian civil aviation officials, and the proposed free trade deal with India.

    “Tamaki wants New Zealanders to march to ‘Make NZ Kiwi Again’ , but he cannot be very Kiwi himself if he has forgotten our fundamental history and values. Every New Zealander has either crossed an ocean to build a life here, or is descended from someone who did. Kiwis believe in freedom and a fair chance for anyone who’s willing to offer their efforts to society.

    “I hope Brian Tamaki doesn’t have to visit hospital any time soon, but if he does, he will experience firsthand the contribution of immigrant doctors, nurses, and carers that have made New Zealand home.

    “The construction sector is powered by migrants who are literally building New Zealand’s future. Others develop cutting-edge technology right here in New Zealand to solve problems, boost exports, and create jobs that benefit us all.

    “The migrant community shouldn’t be feared – they should be embraced for all they bring to New Zealand.

    “Tamaki warns that Indians are ‘not bad people, but they have intentions’. That is part is true – we have intentions to build peaceful and prosperous lives, raise educated children, and open businesses that offer value to New Zealand.

    “Brian Tamaki is a shameless self-promoter and is clearly willing to tap into any negative sentiment that draws attention and outrage. This week it’s Indians, next week it will be another group. It’s tempting to ignore him, but when he seeks to define who is and isn’t a Kiwi, he must be challenged.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Water Safety – Safer Boating Week: Come Home Safe

    Source: Maritime New Zealand

    As the summer boating season begins, Maritime New Zealand and the Safer Boating Forum are urging all boaties and watercraft users to prioritise safety.
    Safer Boating Week, starting Monday, 21 October, highlights the importance of safety as recreational boaties, and craft users (whether in a power boat, waka ama, kayak, canoe or paddle board) return to the water. For many, this will be the first time since last summer they venture out, making this year’s theme, ‘ Come Home Safe’, more relevant than ever. It builds on last year’s theme and reinforces the need for safe boating practices and encourages everyone to make safety a priority to ensure they return home.
    Maritime NZ’s Director, Kirstie Hewlett, highlighted the ongoing importance of Safer Boating Week in promoting safety messages year-round. “This is our 11th Safer Boating Week, and it’s as important as ever. Over the past decade, more than 170 people have lost their lives in recreational craft incidents.
    “These figures are deeply concerning, and the Safer Boating Forum is committed to reducing the number of deaths on the water,” she says.
    The Safer Boating Forum represents a wide range of recreational craft activities, and this year’s launch event will focus on paddle craft safety.
    Paddle craft users accounted for a significant portion of last year’s fatalities, with 5 out of 11 fatal incidents involving paddle craft.
    At the launch event, we’ll hear from newly crowned Paris Olympic champions Tara Vaughan and Olivia Brett (members of the women’s K4 team with Lisa Carrington), and five-time NZ surf lifesaving Ironwoman champion Danielle Mackenzie. They will share their journeys to becoming elite athletes and how they want to encourage others to take up their sports -safely. Coming from surf lifesaving backgrounds, they know how crucial it is to stay safe around water.
    Maritime NZ’s Harm Prevention Lead for Recreational Craft, Victoria Slade, says paddle craft are particularly vulnerable due to their design and the environments in which they operate.
    “Paddle craft are more likely to capsize than non-paddle craft, and most incidents occurred within one nautical mile of shore or on inland waterways like lakes and rivers. This highlights that danger isn’t just far out at sea,” she says.
    New Zealand’s waters can turn rough quickly, especially for paddle craft users. A calm day can become dangerous within minutes, with strong winds and waves easily overwhelming smaller vessels.
    “If you’re planning to head out on the water, check the marine weather forecast, take two forms of waterproof communication to call for help, and always wear a properly fitting lifejacket,” Ms. Slade says.
    As of 15 October this year, 14 people in recreational craft have died or gone missing after heading out on the water. These tragic incidents occurred in 10 separate incidents.
    Therefore, to help reduce the number of these fatalities, this year’s launch event will also feature a safety campaign called Come Home Safe Deals.
    Research conducted for Maritime NZ about how diverse communities engage with recreational craft safety shows that whānau, family, and friends want to support each other in being safe on the water. These groups are key sources of information and strength.
    Ms. Slade explains, “This safety campaign taps into the importance of these connections, encouraging children, partners, whānau, and friends to influence our target audience and promote safe behaviour.”
    Come Home Safe Deals involves individuals pledging to take certain actions if people they care about follow key safety rules. For example, “If you promise to always wear a lifejacket, I’ll promise to clean my room,” or “If you check the marine weather forecast, I’ll cook your favourite dinner.”
    As part of this initiative, a dedicated web app allows participants to enter into these agreements.
    “Our safety campaign efforts will target this broader audience, guiding them to the Come Home Safe Deals webpage, where they can enter for a chance to win prizes by setting up their deal online,” Ms. Slade says.
    The website, comehomesafe.nz, goes live on October 21 and will run for one month.
    For more safety advice, visit http://www.saferboating.org.nz, where recreational craft users can find guidance on planning their trips, staying safe on the water, maintaining their boats, and using different types of recreational crafts safely.
    Come home safe. Kia Mataara.
    Notes:
    – The research was conducted by Litmus, a social research and evaluation agency with specialist multi-disciplinary teams. Maritime NZ commissioned Litmus to conduct a qualitative study on how different communities in Aotearoa New Zealand use craft in interactions with marine environments, how they kept themselves safe while doing so and what ideas they had for how safety could be improved.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: National Infrastructure Pipeline Worth $147.6 Billion

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The latest snapshot report from New Zealand Infrastructure Commission shows that the value of infrastructure projects in the National Infrastructure Pipeline totalled $147.6 billion in June, an increase of more than 20% since March, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says.

    The pipeline is managed by the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission and provides a national view of current or planned infrastructure projects, from roads, to water infrastructure, to schools, and more.

    “The pipeline includes projects currently in construction through to those being scoped and planned over the next 10 years. Almost 60 per cent ($87.7 billion) of this value comes from projects that are funded, part-funded, or have a funding source confirmed,” Mr Bishop says.

    “The Infrastructure Commission has worked with infrastructure providers to improve transparency and quality of information and available to the sector. In their June pipeline release, the total value of infrastructure projects has increased 20.7 per cent since March 2024.

    “Insights from the pipeline show that projects currently in construction at varying stages of completion have a total expected value of $48 billion. Active and planned projects from central government infrastructure providers account for $89.5 billion of value in the pipeline and $51.3 billion of those projects are funded, part funded or have a funding source confirmed.

    “The Commission’s projections show that more than $16 billion is expected to be spent across all infrastructure sectors in 2024. This spend is equivalent to around four per cent of our GDP and highlights the significance of our infrastructure sectors to the New Zealand economy. Transport accounts for the biggest spend with more than $7 billion, followed by the social sector at $3.9 billion and water at $2.1 billion.

    “The estimated value of projects in the pipeline changes over time as infrastructure providers update their project planning, improve the scope and quality of the information they submit, and as more organisations contribute their project information. Eighty-five organisations from across central government, local government, and the private sector now contribute project information to the Pipeline, an increase of 21.4 per cent over the last 12 months.

    “As the number of contributors and information in the pipeline grows so does the effectiveness and value from this tool. This quarter the Commission saw the highest number of contributors to the pipeline. A more robust and transparent pipeline is good for New Zealand. It can help us understand where there are pressures and opportunities for the construction sector.

    “I look forward to local authorities adding their infrastructure projects to the pipeline from their recently released Long Term Plans, and encourage all infrastructure providers to contribute and maintain the information on their projects and investment intentions in the pipeline”.

    Note:

    The National Infrastructure Pipeline can be found on the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission’s website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –