Source: New Zealand Parliament
Hon Chris Bishop, Leader of the House, made a statement about the business of the House for the sitting week commencing on Tuesday, 22 October 2024.
The introduction of the Auckland Harbour Board and Takapuna Borough Council Empowering Act Amendment Bill was announced.
Question Time is in progress.
Source: New Zealand Government
Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says construction on a significant expansion to Nelson Hospital’s emergency department marks a major milestone in work to improve services for the local community.
“Next week, Health New Zealand will be breaking ground on a $10.6 million expansion to the existing ED, which will increase its capacity, provide a more functional and efficient workspace for staff and a more comfortable environment for patients,” says Dr Reti.
The expansion will provide:
“Last month, approximately 78 per cent of patients spent less than six hours in Nelson Hospital ED.
“This is another example of our Government’s commitment to achieving our target of 95 per cent of patients being admitted, discharged or transferred from an ED within six hours.
“These additions will help reduce wait times for patients, ultimately helping provide more timely access to quality healthcare.”
The ED expansion is part of a broader plan to redevelop Nelson Hospital.
“Providing care to the local community remains our priority and careful planning means existing ED services will remain open as usual,” says Dr Reti.
“I want to assure the people of Nelson, wider Tasman and Marlborough regions that the Government remains committed to delivering a hospital that meets their needs and provides modern models of care.
“The redevelopment of Nelson Hospital is important to provide timely access to quality healthcare for the people of the Top of the South.”
Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard
lass=”BeginningOfDay”>THURSDAY, 17 OCTOBER 2024
The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.
KARAKIA/PRAYERS
GREG O’CONNOR (Assistant Speaker—Labour): Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations, that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom, justice, mercy, and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.
Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard
BUSINESS STATEMENT
Hon CHRIS BISHOP (Leader of the House): Next week, the House will consider the first readings of the Mental Health Bill and the Policing (Police Vetting) Amendment Bill. We will consider further stages of the Gambling (Definition of Remote Interactive Gambling) Amendment Bill, the Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill, and the Contracts of Insurance Bill. On Thursday morning, there will be extended hours for private, local, and members’ business. On Thursday afternoon there will be a two-hour debate on constituency and local issues.
Just finally, in closing, I’ve just been informed that today is the final day of the Australian Associated Press news outlet in New Zealand. I think they’ve been here for 50 years, including in the press gallery, and I’m sure all members wish them well.
Hon KIERAN McANULTY (Labour): I thank the Leader of the House for the update and thank him for including an extended sitting to cover off the deficit in members’ days. By my calculation, there still is one owing to the House. Can he commit to ensuring there’ll be another extended sitting before the end of the year to tally it up?
Hon CHRIS BISHOP (Leader of the House): Ha, ha! I think it depends on how you define the “owing” point. As the member will be aware, we have had some unanticipated and quite tragic interruptions to the House this year. But certainly, from the Government’s point of view, we will do our best, subject to other important business between now and the end of the year, to fit that in.
Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard
BUSINESS STATEMENT
Hon CHRIS BISHOP (Leader of the House): Next week, the House will consider the first readings of the Mental Health Bill and the Policing (Police Vetting) Amendment Bill. We will consider further stages of the Gambling (Definition of Remote Interactive Gambling) Amendment Bill, the Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill, and the Contracts of Insurance Bill. On Thursday morning, there will be extended hours for private, local, and members’ business. On Thursday afternoon there will be a two-hour debate on constituency and local issues.
Just finally, in closing, I’ve just been informed that today is the final day of the Australian Associated Press news outlet in New Zealand. I think they’ve been here for 50 years, including in the press gallery, and I’m sure all members wish them well.
Hon KIERAN McANULTY (Labour): I thank the Leader of the House for the update and thank him for including an extended sitting to cover off the deficit in members’ days. By my calculation, there still is one owing to the House. Can he commit to ensuring there’ll be another extended sitting before the end of the year to tally it up?
Hon CHRIS BISHOP (Leader of the House): Ha, ha! I think it depends on how you define the “owing” point. As the member will be aware, we have had some unanticipated and quite tragic interruptions to the House this year. But certainly, from the Government’s point of view, we will do our best, subject to other important business between now and the end of the year, to fit that in.
Source: New Zealand Parliament
Media release
Organisation: Finance and Expenditure Committee
For release: 17 October 2024
The Finance and Expenditure Committee has released its plans for the parliamentary inquiry into banking competition, along with the written submissions received on the inquiry so far.
Public hearings on the inquiry are set to kick off next week on Wednesday, 23 October.
The committee has hearings scheduled with all the major banks—including the Australian-owned “Big 4” and the main New Zealand-owned banks—over the remainder of 2024. The schedule of hearings is appended to this media release as Appendix 1. Please note that the schedule is subject to change at short notice, particularly if the House of Representatives sits under urgency. Up to date information for the week ahead can be found on the Parliament website (see links at end).
The committee received over 140 written submissions in response to its call for public submissions. Written submissions have been published online and are available on the Parliament website (see links at end). Over 60 submitters have asked to speak to the committee at public hearings.
The committee intends to progress hearings with all submitters—including organisations and individual members of the public—in 2024. Submitters will be contacted in the coming weeks to schedule their time with the committee. We intend to organise one hearing focused particularly on rural communities and agricultural lending. Once the schedule of hearings has been finalised, we intend to publish the schedule via a further media release.
The committee has invited members of the Primary Production Committee to attend all hearings. The Primary Production Committee has a particular interest in the relationship between rural bank lending and banking competition. We look forward to working with our colleagues from that committee over the course of our inquiry.
The committee intends to consider the overall timetable for completing the inquiry once hearings have been completed. The committee also intends to consider whether it is necessary to invite targeted written cross-submissions once hearings have been completed.
For media enquiries contact:
Clerk of Committee
Finance and Expenditure Committee
Finance.Expenditure@parliament.govt.nz
| Weds 16 Oct | Weds 23 Oct | Wed 30 Oct | Weds 6 Nov | Weds 13 Nov | Weds 20 Nov | Weds 27 Nov | 2 – 6 Dec | Weds 11 Dec | Weds 18 Dec |
| House sitting | House sitting | House not sitting | House sitting | House sitting | House sitting | House not sitting | Scrutiny week | House sitting | House sitting |
| ANZ 9.00am – 9.45am |
Rabobank 9.00am – 9.45am |
ASB 9.00am – 9.45am |
Westpac 9.00am – 9.45am |
BNZ 8.00am – 8.45am TSB 8.45am – 9.05am |
Kiwibank 9.00am – 9.30am Heartland 9.30am 9.50am Cooperative Bank 10.00am – 10.20am SBS 10.20am – 10.40am |
Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti
35 seconds ago
Braydon Gregory is enrolled in the NZ Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3).
Following in his father’s footsteps by studying at EIT, is setting a student up for a career in mechanical engineering.
Braydon Gregory, 17, is currently doing his apprenticeship and is enrolled in the NZ Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3) at EIT – the same programme his father Aaron completed in the early 2000s.
Braydon left Napier Boys’ High halfway through Year 13 this year with a very clear plan of enrolling in Mechanical Engineering (Level 3) and doing his apprenticeship at his father’s company, Gregory Innovations Limited.
He says that he is a third generation product of Napier Boys’, but that mechanical engineering has also been a part of his life since he was young.
“I’ve pretty much been doing it since I was ten, and then I got top of engineering two years in a row at school.”
“It was then that I decided that I would get a head start by leaving school early and starting the EIT programme. Dad then offered me an apprenticeship opportunity.”
As part of this apprenticeship, Braydon is working with his father on contract work for Dennis Glenn Logging.
“The work we are doing is working on big diggers, big loaders and trucks. It is a wide variety of work.”
It is a busy time for Braydon, whose family has a farm in Puketapu. Not only does he work as a part-time shepherd (he has his own dog) for a neighbour, but he also works at Pan Pac Forest Products outside Napier on a Sunday.
Braydon says that his career path has been planned from the beginning, including studying at EIT.
“My father said that it’s a really good place to learn all the basic skills that you’ll carry on for the rest of your life, like sharpening a drill bit.”
“He said that if you went into industry straight away, they would just overlook it and not teach you. At EIT, you weld for as long as you want to get it right before going out into the industry.”
The aim after he has studied is to eventually take over the family business. However, before then, he plans to go on an OE.
“With my engineering qualifications I will probably travel with engineering, so either go to Australia for the big shutdowns or over to America where they do big pipelines. But the aim is definitely to take over the family business and carry that on.”
Asked what he enjoyed about EIT, Braydon said that the tutors made all the difference.
“It is more than a job for them, they really enjoy engineering and passing that knowledge on to us.”
He has no hesitation in recommending EIT as a place to study.
EIT’s Head of the School of Trades and Technology said: “The engineering industry are a big supporter of EIT’s Mechanical Engineering programme and provide excellent graduate pathways, it is fantastic to see one of our graduates pathway into the industry.”
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is continuing to stabilise the immigration system by tightening the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa (MEPV).
“Despite New Zealand being internationally regarded as a safe, fair and highly attractive place to work, we are not immune to migrant exploitation. This is unacceptable,” Immigration Minister Erica Stanford says.
“The MEPV supports migrants to leave exploitative situations quickly while remaining lawfully in New Zealand. It also provides them the chance to find new work. However, the current criteria is too broad and risks prolonging the time migrants remain in a vulnerable position.
“These settings need to be balanced to ensure they provide the ability for migrants to leave exploitative employment.”
From 31 October, the visa will:
The ability to apply for a second MEPV for a further six months will also be removed. A two-week transitional period will allow those currently holding an MEPV expiring on or before 30 November to be granted a second MEPV if they wish to do so.
“This ensures migrants have adequate time to find further work or arrange their affairs and depart New Zealand. They also reduce the prospect of migrants being in financially precarious and vulnerable situations, and the risk of future exploitation.
“This alongside introducing an English language requirement and a minimum skills or experience threshold to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), signals this Government’s commitment to reducing the opportunity for migrant exploitation,” Ms Stanford says.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
The state highway summer maintenance season will be making its mark on the Kāpiti Coast next month.
The Raumati Straights on State Highway 1, north of Mackays crossing, will undergo significant improvements from Sunday, 3 November, until early December.
The work is funded from a $278 million investment in Wellington’s state highways in the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme. $162 million will be invested in maintaining state highway assets, and another $116 million is ringfenced for state highway pothole prevention.
Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Transport Alliance Manager, says the Raumati Straights rebuild is critical, given this section of the highway carries over 20,000 vehicles daily.
“The road is in poor condition and needs attention. We will rebuild two kilometres of the left northbound lane. This will make people’s journeys smoother and safer.”
Ms Hilliard says a rebuild of this size and duration means some traffic delays are likely.
“However, the investment we are making now will mean less maintenance and fewer repairs in the future.”
Ms Hilliard says road crews will do their best to minimise disruption as much as possible.
“This is why we are doing the work at night when traffic volumes are lower and will keep a single northbound lane open. Southbound lanes will be open as normal.”
“During the day, both northbound lanes will be open but under a temporary speed limit. This protects the road work site, keeps drivers safe, and prevents vehicle damage. So, drivers must obey the speed limits and traffic management in place,” Ms Hilliard says.
Works schedule and location:
Source: Te Pati Maori
Te Pāti Māori Co-leaders Rawiri Waititi and Debbie Ngarewa-Packer welcome today’s ruling from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), which found that a Hobson’s Pledge advertisement regarding customary marine titles was misleading and socially irresponsible.
The two-page wraparound ad, published in The New Zealand Herald, suggested that nearly the entire coastline of Aotearoa is under threat of being awarded to Māori through customary marine titles, implying that this would lead to widespread restrictions on public beach access.
The ASA upheld more than 650 complaints, stating that Hobson’s Pledge’s claims were materially misleading and failed to substantiate their arguments. The Board also recognised that the advertisement unnecessarily perpetuated fear, further marginalising Māori.
“This is exactly the kind of divisive and racist rhetoric that has no place in Aotearoa,” says Te Pāti Māori Co-leader Rawiri Waititi.
“Hobson’s Pledge is playing on misinformation to sow fear and division. This campaign feeds into the age-old tactic of pitting Pākehā against Māori in an attempt to undermine Māori rights that are legally recognised, culturally significant, and protected under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.”
“The ruling highlights what we already knew—that this ad was not only misleading but also socially irresponsible on the part of Hobson’s Pledge and NZME,” said Co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.
“NZME and advertising outlets must take responsibility for the content they publish and promote, especially when it is harmful to Māori and perpetuates dangerous narratives.”
“It is everyone’s duty to stop giving a platform to this kind of fear-based, racist, and misleading propaganda. It must continue to be called out for what it is,” Waititi said.
“Te Pāti Māori stands strong in protecting the rights of tangata whenua and upholding our responsibilities as kaitiaki. It’s time for all of Aotearoa to stand with us in rejecting these damaging and deceptive campaigns.”
“As we have demanded, NZME must now apologise to all tangata whenua across its platforms. It must apologise to all staff, their standards must be reviewed and there must be a commitment to the protection of tangata whenua,” said Ngarewa-Packer.
“This ruling is a win for the truth and a reminder of our collective duty to honour Te Tiriti. This is the type of rhetoric this government continues to embolden.
“Te Pāti Māori will continue to fight for a future where Māori rights are respected, and all New Zealanders understand the truth about our shared history and our collective path forward,” she said.
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government has announced how $101.7 million in Budget 2024 funding for metro rail networks will be split between Auckland and Wellington to address the maintenance backlog and deliver more reliable services for commuters in our main cities, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.
“The Auckland metro rail network will receive $48.8 million, while Wellington’s network will see investment of $52.9 million. This funding will support network upgrades across Auckland’s metro rail lines and upgrades to the Johnsonville, Kāpiti, and Hutt Valley lines in Wellington.
“Delivering reliable, effective, and efficient public transport is a top priority for our Government. We know that improving service reliability is key for commuters choosing public transport as a travel option in our main cities, reducing congestion on our roads.
“The investment we are making in Auckland and Wellington will enable KiwiRail to carry out critical work on rail assets across the network. This includes upgrades to level crossings, retaining walls, points equipment, sleepers, and tunnels. Culverts will also be replaced, and improvements made to bridges and critical drainage infrastructure.
“Delivering these upgrades in Auckland and Wellington will improve overall reliability and efficiency for commuters. This investment package, coupled with the ongoing investment our Government is making in rail, will enable commuters in Auckland and Wellington to get where they need to go quickly and safely.
“Alongside this investment, the Government is continuing to review the Metropolitan Rail Operating Model (MROM) to develop a more sustainable funding model for metropolitan rail, including who pays for what, and ensure the services and infrastructure is focused on prioritising passenger movements in an efficient and reliable way,” Mr Brown says.
Source: New Zealand Government
Three new members are being appointed to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra Board to help ensure it’s focused on bringing value to New Zealanders, Arts Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
“The trio of new members, James Christmas, Karyn Rachtman and Susannah Robinson, have expertise across fundraising, philanthropy, Crown governance, sector experience and revenue generation.
“James Christmas is a barrister based in Auckland with a background in government and the arts, which will be an asset to the NZSO.
“Karyn Rachtman is a highly experienced music supervisor for iconic film soundtracks. She is a passionate advocate of New Zealand talent which makes her a natural fit for New Zealand’s premier orchestra.
“Susannah Robinson is highly accomplished in fundraising, philanthropy and governance, both in New Zealand and abroad. Susannah’s governance experience in arts and culture has recently included her role as a trustee for the Auckland Art Gallery Foundation.
“I would like to acknowledge the outgoing members, Claire Szabó and Hon Chris Finlayson KC, for the crucial roles they have played on the Board during their terms.”
Source: New Zealand Government
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has confirmed the appointment of Fletcher Tabuteau as Chair of the Te Puia New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute (NZMACI) Board.
Mr Tabuteau (Ngāti Ngāraranui, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue) was a teacher at Rotorua Boys’ High School, a lecturer in Economics, and head of the Business School at Waiariki Institute of Technology. He now runs Hoporona Consulting and serves as Director of Capital Government Relations and Communications.
“I want to congratulate Fletcher on his appointment to the New Zealand Māori Arts and Crafts Institute Board,” says Mr Potaka.
“His experience in governance, management, and business will be an asset to the Board and the important work they do to encourage and promote ahurea and toi Māori.”
Located in Rotorua, NZMACI is home to Te Wānanga Whakairo Rākau (National Wood Carving School), Te Takapū o Rotowhio (National Stone and Bone Carving School), and Te Rito o Rotowhio (National Weaving School).
With a 60-year legacy, NZMACI has a strong history of producing highly skilled crafts people.
“At its core, NZMACI fosters the protection and transfer of mātauranga Māori. It is an integral part of the Rotorua economy and the wider Māori economy, contributing to the sustainable development of scenic and tourist attractions in the Rotorua district and across the motu.”
Kua whakatūturungia e te Minita Whanaketanga Māori, e Tama Potaka, te whakatūngia o Fletcher Tabuteau hei Upoko o te Poari o Te Puia (NZMACI).
He pouako o mua a Mr Tabuteau (Ngāti Ngāraranui, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Whakaue) i Te Kura Tuarua mō ngā Taitama o Rotorua, he pūkenga i te Mātai Ōhanga, ko ia hoki te upoko o te Kura Pakihi i Te Whare Takiura o Waiariki. Ko tāna i āianei he whakahaere i te Hoporona Consulting, he noho hoki hei Kaiarataki i ngā Hononga Rawa ā-Kāwanatanga me ngā Pāpāhotanga.
“E tōmina ana au ki te whakamānawatanga o Fletcher i tāna whakatū atu ki te Poari o Te Puia,” te kupu a Potaka.
“Ka whai hua mārika te Poari i ōna wheako i ngā ao o te kāwanatanga, te whakahaerenga, me te pakihi, ā, ka whai hua hoki ki ā rātou mahi i te akiākina me te whakatairangahia o te ahurea me te toi Māori.”
Kei Rotorua te NZMACI, ā, koia tērā ko te kāinga o Te Wānanga Whakairo Rākau, Te Takapū o Rotowhio, me Te Rito o Rotowhi.
E 60 tau te whakapapa o NZMACI, ā, kua roa nei tāna whakaputanga i ngā pūkenga me ngā ringa rehe.
“I tōna iho, ko tā NZMACI he poipoi i te tiakina me te whāngaia o te mātauranga Māori. He wāhanga hirahira hoki nō te ōhanga o Rotorua me te ōhanga Māori whānui, nā, e whāngai ana i te whanaketanga toitūtanga o ngā whakapoapoatanga ā-taiao, ā-tūruhi hoki i Rototua, puta hoki nei i te motu.
“Mā te whakatū ngā mātanga pūmanawa ki ngā taraipiunara me ngā poari e kino ai te painga o te whakapakarihia o te ōhanga, me te tukuna o ngā ratonga tūmatanui pai ake.”
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating 48-year-old Denis Courtot, who has been reported missing.
Denis, a French national, was last seen yesterday evening by his family at a hotel in the Auckland CBD.
He is tall and was last seen wearing a grey suit jacket and tan trousers.
Police and Denis’ family have concerns for his welfare and ask anyone who sees him to contact call 111 immediately.
If you have any information that could help us locate Denis, please update us online now or call 105.
Please use the reference number 241017/5803.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Tony Wright/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Police urge boaties to take the basic precautions after seven people have been rescued near Taharoa this morning.
At around 8.20am, Police were alerted to a boat which overturned in the water, when Coastguard had launched a Search and Rescue response.
Just before 8am, a vessel crossing the Kawhia bar failed to close its bar crossing report with Coastguard.
A search and rescue response was launched with Coastguard Raglan and Auckland Coastguard Air Patrol volunteers activated. Other boaties in the area then reported the vessel had capsized and all seven people were on shore.
Coastguard Raglan volunteers onboard two rescue water craft and Joe Hawke Rescue headed south to Kawhia, with the first volunteers arriving on scene at around 8.30am.
Thankfully, the group of men on the boat had managed to self-rescue and reached a beach near Opapaka Point where Coastguard volunteers triaged the group and provided initial first aid.
The six men were taken to Kawhia where they were assessed by Ambulance. One of the men received a minor head injury and was treated at the scene. The rest of the men were cold but uninjured.
The seventh man was transported to hospital by helicopter for leg injuries.
They were well prepared in the case of an emergency, and activated their Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon.
While it is fortunate that emergency services were contacted and the group are now safe, Police would like to use this opportunity to remind the public to prepare for any possible situation that may occur in the water.
Police urge anyone going near waters, no matter the skill level, to take the basic precautions to keep themselves safe in case something goes wrong.
Always wear a lifejacket when boating or fishing, and have a waterproof bag to put your phone into to put inside your lifejacket, so it is always with you.
Tell someone where you are going and when you will come back – this can be crucial information for us to locate you.
Be aware of your surroundings and the dangers they may have – check the local marine weather forecast before you go and expect both weather and water state changes.
Police urge people to change their mindset from ‘It won’t happen to me’ to ‘What if it does?’
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Labour Party
KiwiRail offering voluntary redundancy to all its staff is hugely concerning given the future of New Zealand’s rail system is under threat.
KiwiRail employs 4,500 people and has staff in more than 50 towns and cities across the country.
“These are skilled workers who contribute a lot to the New Zealand economy and make sure freight and passengers move around safely,” Labour’s state-owned enterprises spokesperson Arena Williams said.
“It was revealed last week that more than 50 roles at the Interislander ferries were going, and now we hear all staff are going to be offered redundancy as of Monday.
“I am especially concerned about the timing of this. There is already huge uncertainty around the future of the essential rail connection across the Cook Strait, following Nicola Willis’ decision to cancel the rail-enabled ferries.
“Labour had a plan for new ferries, because the current ones will need significant maintenance to serve their critical role in connecting the North and South Islands.
“Cutting maintenance and engineering jobs, when you have no plan for new ferries and are relying on the old ones, is adding fuel to the fire and will only mean ferries that break down more often and put passenger and crew safety at risk.
“Freight companies are worried too. They are unsure if their journeys will go ahead, and there is growing concern about stock arriving on time, safely.
“A year on, there is still no plan from the government to replace the ageing ferries and even less certainty for staff and the public,” Arena Williams said.
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Source: MetService
Covering period of Thursday 17th – Sunday 20th October – MetService is forecasting settled weather over the weekend – a dry spell which may be long awaited in those parts of the country who have already broken their monthly rainfall record for October, such as southern regions of the South Island.
Hints of summer are in the air, with an area of high pressure over Aotearoa New Zealand. Warm afternoons and light northerly winds set the tone for a great weekend for most, but it should be noted that conditions are not entirely cloud-free.
MetService meteorologist Clare O’Connor details, “The ridge of high pressure over the country does a great job of preventing – or blocking – the progression of an area of low pressure sitting in the Tasman Sea. However, as these areas gradually move eastwards, some tendrils of the low make it to our western shores as brief showers and cloudy periods although there will be plenty of blue skies in between.”
Afternoon showers are also expected about inland areas over the weekend, another indicator of a shift towards summer weather patterns. Green thumbs will be able to swing into action with their spring planting this weekend, and early summer-like temperatures will be felt as the weekend comes to a close. Maximum temperatures are forecast to reach the low twenties about the lower South Island.
O’Connor adds, “These warmer, drier conditions are also expected to continue into the week ahead, but it is still too early to offer a definitive outlook for the upcoming long weekend. However, there are indications for warm temperatures to kick off the (extra) long weekend about Hawke’s Bay”.
Source: New Zealand Defence Force
Three shipping containers that came off the sunken Royal New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Manawanui will be removed from the reef, with work starting on Friday.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is working with a local contractor, ARK Marine, to remove the three shipping containers from the reef off the south-west coast of Upolu.
The three 10ft containers will be floated and then towed to shore. Weather permitting, it is expected to take at least three days to remove all three containers. Preparation by the contractor is underway including getting rigging gear ready for the removal.
Two of the three containers are empty. The third container is carrying 3000kg of food.
The containers are not watertight and have sustained some structural damage, and are being moved by tides and swell.
Samoan Government officials have been involved throughout the process and have approved the removal plan.
NZDF Senior National Representative Commodore Andrew Brown says this is still a complex operation.
“We have carefully considered a number of options for removing the containers. Especially, we are working hard to minimise the impact on the marine environment,” he says.
“Other considerations include the prevailing weather, weight of the containers, and potential biosecurity risks.
“While it is expected it will take three days for the removal of the containers, it may be that weather and sea conditions, or other considerations, mean that the timetable is not met. However, we are hopeful that the conditions will be such that all containers will be removed from the reef over coming days.”
Source: New Zealand Police (National News)
Please attribute to Superintendent Lane Todd, Canterbury Metro Area Commander:
Five young people have been apprehended this afternoon and face charges relating to serious offences over the past 48 hours.
About 5pm, Police were called to Linwood Avenue after a report of a group of young people stealing a vehicle.
Units immediately responded and identified that the suspects involved were wanted in relation to a number of offences, including a vehicle theft in Wigram, several instances of threatening members of the public, allegedly intending to rob them, as well as a burglary.
The vehicle was lost sight of, however about 5.45pm Police were notified of another vehicle theft on Port Hills Road, Hillsborough, and attending officers then identified the occupants as the same group. The earlier vehicle was located abandoned.
Police monitored the vehicle, including by air with the use of a private helicopter contracted to assist.
While Police were positioning themselves to stop the vehicle, it was seen driving dangerously several times around the city before being abandoned on Lichfield Street, where the group fled on foot.
They were all apprehended a short time later and taken into custody.
Charges are now being considered for a range of alleged offences.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
17 October 2024 – Tax Justice Aotearoa welcomes the latest 1News-Verian poll finding which shows almost half of voters would support a capital gains tax that excludes the family home.
The poll asked “Do you support or oppose the introduction of a capital gains tax (CGT) on properties other than the family home?”
More voters than not said they would support the introduction of a CGT, with 46 per cent in favour and 41 per cent opposed. 13 per cent did not know or preferred not to say.
“This poll shows that New Zealanders are tired of the current unfair system, in which you are taxed less if you make a living from buying and selling houses than you do if you work an ordinary job,” says Tax Justice Aotearoa chair Glenn Barclay.
“New Zealand is an outlier internationally in that we do not tax capital gains in a comprehensive way. The additional revenue raised could fund vital services such as education, healthcare and infrastructure and help address climate change – leading to a better quality of life for all New Zealanders.”
“Our tax system is way out of balance and a capital gains tax (CGT) is a good first step to help level the playing field between wage earners and those who mainly earn their money through investments,” Barclay says.
“There has been growing support for a capital gains tax from a range of individuals and organisations in the media in recent weeks and this poll shows the public of New Zealand are supportive too.”
Polling commissioned by TJA also indicates a strong public appetite for a tax on capital – and showed that when the concept is properly explained, support was even stronger.
“Once people understand that gains from the sale of assets such as houses and shares is income, just like income from employment, they realise how unfair our current system is,” Barclay says.
“Given the public level of support for treating all sources of income consistently for tax purposes, we call on all political parties to act now.”
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel
If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.
Do not travel to Niger due to the threat of terrorism and kidnapping, the presence of armed militants and the unpredictable security situation (level 4 of 4).
Niger
Terrorism
There is a high threat from terrorism in Niger. Terrorist groups are active across Niger, particularly, in the western, northwestern and southeastern parts of the country, Since 2013, there have been a number of retaliatory attacks against the Niger government for its participation in regional interventions in Mali and Nigeria to repel armed rebels.
The Nigerian-based terrorist group Boko Haram has a strong presence in neighbouring areas of northern Nigeria and has conducted cross-border attacks in Niger, near the Nigerian border, particularly in the Diffa region. State of Emergencies and curfews may be in place in regions of concern. Comply with any instructions issued by local authorities.
Terrorist attacks could occur at any time and may be directed at locations known to be frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers, as well as security forces and premises associated with the Government of Niger. The security situation across the Sahel continues to deteriorate, and regions previously considered to be less at risk may now be subject to terrorism and related security threats.
New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious at all times, particularly in public areas. We recommend monitoring media reports and local information sources for possible threats to your safety and security.
Kidnapping
There is a high threat of kidnapping against foreigners in Niger, including in the capital Niamey. The risk increases substantially outside Niamey, in the north of the country and in border areas. Terrorist groups active in Niger have been known to specifically target foreigners. In October 2020, a US citizen was kidnapped in the village of Massalata in southern Niger, about 10km from the border with Nigeria. In the past, foreigners have been kidnapped from their vehicles, homes and places of work.
Violent Crime
Crime levels in Niger are high, and foreigners are frequently targeted. Muggings are common in Niamey around the Gawaye Hotel, the National Museum, Kennedy Bridge and the Petit Marché, particularly at night. New Zealanders are advised not to walk alone or after dark in these areas. Other common types of crime include home invasions, carjackings assault and theft.
Armed bandits operate throughout eastern and southern Niger, the border area with Nigeria south of Zinder, and large parts of northern Niger are off-limits to tourists.
Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching occurs in Niamey and throughout Niger. You should take steps to secure your personal belongings and avoid wearing or displaying valuables such as mobile devices and jewellery or leaving them visible in vehicles.
Local Travel
New Zealanders who decide to travel outside Niamey should ensure they put in place appropriate personal security protection measures, and take official warnings seriously. We recommend travelling in convoy of at least two vehicles, with a local guide and only during daylight hours. Attacks have occurred on the Agadez-Arlit, Agedez-Tahoua, and Tillabéry-Niamey roads and within the city of Zinder. You should prepare well in advance and ensure all vehicles are fully equipped with essential supplies, including a satellite phone.
We advise against the use of public transport in Niger. There have been incidents of armed robbery resulting in deaths on buses in Niger. Taxis are often under-maintained and dangerous and should be avoided. It is recommended that you hire a private car with a driver. Lock car doors and keep windows shut at all times.
Local authorities are sensitive about foreigners travelling out of Tahoua to the east or north of Niger. If you travel in the Agadez region without obtaining prior authorisation, you risk arrest or deportation.
Civil Unrest
Niger frequently experiences protests and demonstrations, usually near government buildings and university campuses, some of which have turned violent in the past. Mobile phone and internet access may be disrupted during civil unrest.
Since the military takeover in July 2023, there has been political instability in Niger. New Zealanders in Niger should remain vigilant and monitor the media for further information.
New Zealanders are advised to follow any advice issued by the local authorities, including curfews, and avoid all demonstrations, protests and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent with little warning.
Landmines
There is a danger from unexploded landmines in some parts of Niger, including in Niamey and in the northern region of Agadez. We recommend you remain on well-used roads and paths.
Scams
Commercial and internet fraud is a common problem in many African countries. New Zealanders in Niger should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams.
General Travel Advice
As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Niger, the ability of the government to provide consular assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited.
We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Niger should consider.
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in Niger to avoid offending local sensitivities.
Photography of public buildings and military facilities is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.
Medical facilities are limited and of poor quality, including in the capital Niamey. New Zealanders travelling or living in Niger should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.
New Zealanders in Niger are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for Africa
Source: New Zealand Labour Party
Changes to outdated relationships legislation has passed its third reading giving family violence survivors the power to quickly dissolve abusive marriages.
“The Family Proceedings (Dissolution for Family Violence) Amendment Bill updates our marriage laws to remove the requirement to wait two years for a divorce in cases of family violence,” Dr Deborah Russell said.
“This is an important step towards helping people with violent partners to leave their relationships and removes a source of power that abusers can retain over their victims even after separation.”
The Member’s Bill was first introduced by former Labour MP Angie Warren-Clark, with Deborah Russell now seeing the legalisation through the House.
“I think this is an important milestone for all parties. It shows we can work together when it’s clear there is an issue that we can solve together – putting politics aside for the betterment of New Zealanders’ safety.
“This Bill also highlights the need for a much more thorough review of our divorce law so that it fits with modern realities. Our current law dates to 1980, and more than forty years later we have a very different way of forming and dissolving relationships,” Deborah Russell said.
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Source: Department of Conservation
Date: 17 October 2024
Many sites are already booked out over the peak Christmas and New Year period, but there are still opportunities for those looking to explore Northland’s natural beauty over the upcoming summer period.
DOC campsites offer affordable holiday options in pristine settings, and staff work hard to ensure campers can enjoy the summer season with minimal disruptions, says Bronwyn Bauer Hunt, Operations Manager Te Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands).
“Northland’s DOC campsites have always been a favourite for summer holidaymakers, offering unique experiences from coastal views to tranquil bush settings. We encourage people to plan ahead and book early where possible, especially during peak times and be aware of the rules in place to protect these special places.”
“Our islands have special biodiversity values and are home to threatened plant and animal species, some of which only exist in a few places. Wildfire can be devastating to these native ecosystems and we are very concerned about the threat of pest seaweed Caulerpa,” says Bronwyn.
While some campsites are booked solid through the busy holiday period, others still have availability for those seeking an adventure later in the summer.
Some campsites do not need to be booked and operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
“A lot of these islands are also pest free so checking your boat for any rodent stowaways and other unwanted pests is vital. Dogs are not permitted on islands managed by DOC as they disturb or threaten wildlife.’’
There is a total fire ban on conservation islands in Northland. Anyone who lights an unauthorised fire could face up to two years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to $200,000, plus the costs of the damage and putting out the fire.
For media enquiries contact:
Email: media@doc.govt.nz
