NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Straterra – Overseas investment changes welcome

    Source: Straterra Inc

    Straterra welcomes the Coalition Government’s proposed changes to the Overseas Investment Act, says chief executive Josie Vidal.
    “Mining is very capital intensive so overseas investment is particularly important to the New Zealand mining sector as a provider of capital that just isn’t available here, as well as in providing access to new expertise, technology, and links to global distribution chains,” Vidal says.
    “We agree with the Government that New Zealand needs to attract more overseas investment.
    “Reducing the regulatory burden to investment in mining and mineral processing will help New Zealand unlock our endowment of critical minerals.
    “We support fast-tracking the assessment process and introducing a government policy statement (GPS) mechanism.
    “We are certainly seeing renewed interest internationally in investing in New Zealand mining and New Zealand was viewed more favourably than in recent years in the Fraser Institute Survey of Mining Companies, which ranks jurisdictions worldwide based on their overall investment attractiveness, the attractiveness of their mining policy, and their geological attractiveness.
    “Enabling governments to signal their policy stance using a GPS has a lot of merit. Because of the long lead time required for mining investments, a cross-party approach for attracting investment is needed – at least as much as is possible. A GPS is preferable to successive government’s making disruptive changes to overseas investment settings.
    “We will scrutinise the proposals and provide feedback to the Government and may have more recommendations to make.”
    Straterra is the industry association representing New Zealand’s minerals and mining sector. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man arrested following Dairy Flat incident

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A man has been arrested after allegedly stealing a vehicle in Point Chevalier before being involved in a multi-vehicle crash on the northern motorway, near Dairy Flat.

    Around 2:40pm Police responded to Walmer Road, Point Chevalier, after a man allegedly attempted to steal a vehicle from an elderly woman before stealing a vehicle from a second person on the same road. Luckily no serious injuries were sustained.

    Police maintained observations of the vehicle to northern motorway with the assistance of the Air Support Unit and traffic cameras.

    Inspector Daniel Meade says a pursuit was not initiated due to safety concerns. Instead, Police attempted to spike the vehicle, however the driver continued.

    “At around 3pm the driver came to a stop following a multi-vehicle crash where the vehicle has rolled,” says Inspector Meade.

    Two people, including the offender, received moderate injuries.

    “While the offender was travelling along the northern motorway he has allegedly damaged a number of vehicles and knocked a motorcyclist off of their bike.

    “The Serious Crash Unit have completed a scene examination and the road is due to be reopened within the next hour.”

    Charges are being considered for the 34-year-old man and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

    The incident will be referred to the IPCA.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police appeal for information following man found in a critical condition, Whangamarino

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    In the early Hours of this morning, 14 October, a man was located with critical injuries on Hampton Downs Road, Whangamarino.

    The man remains in a critical condition in Auckland City Hospital.

    Police are working to determine the circumstances that led to the man being injured.

    Cordons are in place between Hampton Downs Road / junction with Hampton Downs landfill access road and Hampton Downs Road nearby Chris Amon Drive.

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

    Please use the reference number 241014/2225.

    Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, SH7, Lewis Pass

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a two vehicle crash on State Highway 7, Lewis Pass yesterday afternoon, Sunday 13 October.

    Police responded to the crash around 11:45am.

    One person was transported to hospital in a critical condition where they have since died.

    Two further people were transported to hospital in a moderate condition.

    The Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Saltwater Creek becomes outdoor classroom for planting day

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Ashley Rakahuri School, an Enviroschool for 14 years, first partnered with their Enviroschools facilitator, Siobhán Culhane, Waimakariri Biodiversity Trust (WBT), and Daiken last year to connect the students to this area.

    This year, they took it further by investigating the terrestrial invertebrates and planting native seedlings, which Daiken generously provided.

    These native seedlings were specially chosen to restore this area to being a wetland.

    The year three to five students tried out three fun activities:

    • planting native trees along Saltwater Creek to create this wetland environment
    • recording the bugs, worms and creepy crawlies living under logs, and in the grasses and bushes.
    • looking at the mayflies, caddis larvae, snails and flatworms that live in the creek.

    The students were engaged, eager, and enthusiastic to get planting and reporting!

    The 46 ākonga/students, with help from kaimahi/staff from Daiken and other organisations, planted 630 native seedlings, including kahikatea, tōtara, and mataī in just over three hours!

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stronger fuel reserves to drive economic stability

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New Zealand’s fuel resilience is being strengthened to ensure people and goods keep moving and connected to the world in case of disruptions, Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones says.

    “Fuel security is a priority for the Coalition Government. We are acutely aware of how important engine fuels are to our economy and the impacts a fuel disruption would have on New Zealanders. New Zealand imports nearly all of its engine fuels, making us particularly vulnerable to international and domestic supply disruptions,” Mr Jones says.

    “Ensuring we hold enough reserve stocks in the right place to ride out possible disruptions is a key pillar of fuel security. It is a critical insurance policy needed to safeguard against the potentially devastating impacts that a severe and sustained fuel disruption might have.

    “The previous government introduced a minimum stockholding obligation, which means from 1 January 2025 fuel importers will be required to hold 28 days’ cover for petrol, 24 days for jet fuel and 21 days for diesel.

    “Importantly, the minimum stockholding obligation regulations introduce a new information disclosure rule which enables government to have much clearer oversight over how much fuel is held in New Zealand.

    “However, I am not satisfied that 21 days’ cover for diesel is enough, nor is the jet fuel stockholding rule sufficient to avoid disruptions to international aviation such as that we experienced in 2017.

    “Diesel is our most important fuel – it keeps food and people moving through our country. Without it, New Zealanders would struggle to access everything they need. We need to hold enough diesel onshore to keep essential goods moving through the country and vital services running, even if fuel supply chains have been disrupted. 

    “For this reason, I am seeking feedback on increasing diesel reserves to 28 days’ stock to help reduce any potential impact of a disruption to supply.

    “I am also concerned about security of supply of jet fuel at Auckland Airport. In September I informed the fuel companies which own the jet fuel infrastructure at the airport of my plan to seek Cabinet agreement on regulations that would mandate sufficient jet fuel to be held near Auckland Airport.

    “Auckland Airport is New Zealand’s gateway to the world – 75 per cent of all international seat capacity into New Zealand and 90 per cent of all long haul flights come into Auckland. 

    “New Zealand found out the hard way in 2017 when jet fuel supply was disrupted, forcing planes to be diverted and reducing our connection with the world. Further issues with jet fuel quality in 2022 reinforce the need for action. 

    “Despite the 2019 Government Inquiry into the 2017 Auckland Fuel Supply Disruption recommending jet fuel companies urgently increase their jet fuel holdings near Auckland airport, little progress has been made. Establishing a location-specific jet fuel stockholding requirement would ensure the jet fuel companies act to secure enough fuel is on hand to ride out any disruption to supply.

    “Along with reversing the ban on oil and gas exploration, these actions will further strengthen New Zealand’s resilience and self-determination to ensure disruptions to our energy supply do not halt the economy,” Mr Jones says.

    Read the discussion document on increasing diesel reserves from 21 to 28 days and have your say here: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/have-your-say/options-for-improving-our-diesel-resilience. Consultation closes on December 6.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Crash, SH1, Rakaia

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are at the scene of a crash involving a car and truck, which has blocked State Highway 1, north of Rakaia.

    The crash was reported about 8.40am, on the overbridge near Main Rakaia Road.

    There are no reports of serious injuries, but the road is closed.

    Southbound traffic is being diverted at the intersection of SH1 and Old South Road. Northbound traffic is being diverted up North Rakaia Road.

    Motorists should expect delays while the scene is cleared.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Wellington City Council must dig deep to cut the waste

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT’s Local Government spokesperson Cameron Luxton is urging Wellington City Council to dig deep on cuts to wasteful spending as it revisits its long-term plan following the cancellation of the sale of the Council’s airport shares this week.

    “With or without the sale, it’s clear that that the council is spending far too much, hiking rates too far, and strangling the life out of the city,” says Mr Luxton.

    “It is a failure of governance that the Mayor and those councillors in favour of the sale were not able to convince their colleagues that the proceeds from the sale would not be wasted.

    “No council should own an airport, but equally, no council should be spending as recklessly as Wellington is.

    “Looking at the previously approved long-term plan, and related documents, obvious areas for savings include:

    • $112.9m to remove car access along the Golden mile
    • At least $104.4m on rescuing the city library
    • $115.2m on cycle lanes
    • $114m on a food waste recycling scheme and wheelie bins for general rubbish to be collected less frequently than the status quo

    “These obvious areas for savings just scratch the service but collectively would far outstrip the roughly $321 million value of the airport shares.

    “With the dire state of the council’s finances, even sacred cows like the wrecked Town Hall and the zoo should be on the table for sale.

    “This week’s decision was a scathing indictment on the Council’s ability to serve the people on Wellington. But if the failure to sell airport shares forces the Council to take a hard look at its spending, that’s a silver lining.

    “The introduction of unelected commissioners, as we saw in Tauranga, would be a disastrous outcome. Wellington’s council must urgently demonstrate its competence, dig deep to cut low-value spending and liquidate assets, and finally show some respect to ratepayers.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Waikanae closure another symptom of funding debacle, urgent cure needed

    Source: GenPro

    The closure of a satellite medical practice at Waikanae Beach is the latest symptom of a growing crisis in primary healthcare caused by years of inadequate funding.

    “Waikanae Beach patients, many of whom are elderly and high needs, will now have to travel much further to access medical help at Waikanae Health. This puts more even pressure on this health provider,” said Angus Chambers, Chair of the General Practice Owners Association of New Zealand Aotearoa (GenPro).

    “In addition to closing its satellite practice, Waikanae Health also says it has stopped taking on new patients, withdrawn from delivering care at four rest homes, and quit almost all out-of-hours and home consultations. All would have been difficult decisions for the owners of the practice.

    “The biggest concern is the impact on patients. But it’s also sad that this, and other closures and reductions in services, elicit no response from the government or Te Whatu Ora, which seem resigned to the gradual erosion of primary healthcare”.

    “The state is disinterested in these closures and appears to expect general practice care to be replaced by pharmacies and telehealth, as they are cheaper options. Government is either unconcerned or ignorant to the fact that outcomes will suffer and cost more in the long term,” Dr Chambers said.

    General practices are in crisis due to years of under-funding by government and are constrained by out-of-date rules which limit patient charges. They’re also struggling with higher costs, greater patient need, and shortages of medical professionals.

    The pressures facing general practices are well documented. Barely a month goes by without a general practice closing, ceasing patient enrolments, or reducing services such as after-hours care.
     
    “Waikanae’s issues are also reflective of the national trend for hospitals to push more and more patients back to GPs, and the impact of changes in eligibility for Community Services Cards that disadvantaged some practices with a high proportion of card holders with high health needs, such as Waikanae.
     
    “The result of this cocktail of problems is that practices are struggling to stay afloat and retain and recruit GPs, meaning long days and staff burn out. Early retirement, reduction in services and, as we regrettably see again today, practice closures are logical consequences. “
     
    “The government must as a matter of urgency increase its support of primary healthcare, overhaul the current out-of-date funding model, and help increase the supply of medical professionals into primary healthcare,” said Dr Chambers.

    GenPro, which represents about half of all general practices in Aotearoa, is ready to work with the Minister of Health and the Health NZ Commissioner to develop the solutions needed.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Electronic card transactions: September 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Electronic card transactions: September 2024 – information release – 14 October 2024 – The electronic card transactions (ECT) series cover debit, credit, and charge card transactions with New Zealand-based merchants. The series can be used to indicate changes in consumer spending and economic activity.

    Key facts
    All figures are seasonally adjusted unless otherwise specified.

    Values are at the national level and are not adjusted for price changes.

    September 2024 month
    Changes in the value of electronic card transactions for the September 2024 month (compared with August 2024) were:

    • spending in the retail industries was unchanged
    • spending in the core retail industries increased 0.3 percent ($19 million).

    Visit our website to read this information release and to download CSV files:

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – RBNZ Governor Adrian Orr’s Keynote Speech: Improving Māori Access to Capital

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    14 October 2024 – New Zealand needs a system-wide approach to improving Māori access to capital to unlock economic potential, Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua Governor Adrian Orr says in a speech delivered today.

    In his speech, Governor Orr discusses the recognition across the financial system that more needs to be done to enable Māori access to capital and participation in investment opportunities.

    “Improving Māori access to capital is a powerful enabler we all need to collectively prioritise,” Mr Orr says.

    With Māori projected to make up 20 percent of New Zealand’s labour force by 2040, the Governor reaffirmed the commitment of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to ensuring that the financial system is inclusive.

    “We will continue to highlight the importance of collaboration and the need to focus on improving Māori access to capital,” Mr Orr says.

    The Governor acknowledged recent progress made across the financial system, reflecting on the efforts from iwi, the private and public sector, and within Te Pūtea Matua.

    “Despite the great work that is already happening in this space, there are signs that more effort is needed,” Mr Orr says.

    “My hope is that equity funding does more to improve Māori access to capital and unlock investment opportunities and choices to provide real benefits to all of Aotearoa,” Mr Orr says.

    More information

    Improving Māori Access to Capital – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua (rbnz.govt.nz) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=4f3c2b70d0&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sovtech AU Launches in New Zealand, Working with Cure Kids to Deliver Cybersecurity Solutions with a Social Impact – NewzEngine.com

    Source: NewzEngine.com

    Auckland, New Zealand — Sovtech, a leading Australian cybersecurity firm, is proud to announce its official launch in New Zealand this October, marking a new chapter in its expansion across the Tasman.

    Known for its innovative ‘profit for purpose’ business model, Sovtech combines cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions with a strong social mission, including partnerships with significant causes such as Cure Kids – a leading charity dedicated to improving child health in New Zealand.

    As part of the New Zealand launch, Sovtech’s Founder and Director, Neil Templeman, will be visiting Auckland on 15 and 16 October to meet with clients, partners, and government officials. Templeman brings a personal connection to New Zealand, having lived here for seven years. His goal is to establish a local presence, creating new jobs and building a robust team to serve New Zealand businesses.

    “Launching in New Zealand has been driven by strong demand from customers and our partners. We see a great opportunity to help businesses here enhance their cybersecurity posture while making a positive social impact and we have recently signed our first contract in NZ with a large enterprise customer,” says Templeman.

    Sovtech’s unique approach to cybersecurity sets it apart from other providers. The company offers services such as advanced email security, data protection and third-party risk management, but with a difference – profits are reinvested into causes that matter. In Australia, Sovtech has supported First Nations health and education initiatives, and with its New Zealand expansion, it has chosen to align with Cure Kids, a charity focused on funding medical research to improve the health of children.

    Cure Kids is enthusiastic about this collaboration. Brendon Pongia, Head of Engagement, commented, “We are excited to have the support of Sovtech, an organisation with a strong social mission and a shared commitment to improving the health of children in New Zealand.”

    By launching in New Zealand, Sovtech aims to create a lasting social impact while providing the country’s businesses with industry-leading cybersecurity solutions. Its goal is to offer both private and public sector organisations the tools they need to improve their cyber resilience, while simultaneously contributing to a broader societal mission.

    “We believe technology should be a force for good, creating ripple effects that transcend borders and generations,” adds Templeman. “With our Procurement for Purpose model, New Zealand businesses have a unique opportunity to strengthen their security while driving meaningful change.”

    Sovtech’s launch in New Zealand is more than just business – it’s about community, sustainability, and making a difference where it counts.

    Media Contact: Neil Templeman
    Founder & Director, Sovtech
    Neil_templeman@sovtechnz.com

    T: 00 61 419 172 445
    http://www.sovtechnz.com

    Neil Templeman will be available for interviews during his visit to New Zealand on 15-16 October. To schedule a meeting or interview, please contact him directly at the number above.

     

    About Sovtech:
    Sovtech is a cybersecurity provider offering comprehensive solutions to help businesses safeguard against modern threats. Their profit for purpose model reinvests profits into social causes, aligning technology with positive global change. https://sovtech.com.au/

    About Cure Kids:
    Cure Kids is New Zealand’s largest charitable funder of child health research committed to finding better treatments and preventative strategies for a wide range of serious child health conditions. Cure Kids has invested more than $65 million in New Zealand research since it formed over 50 years ago, which has helped to shape and vastly improve the way children who live with serious diseases and health conditions are diagnosed and treated. Cure Kids is currently funding around $8 million in child health research across 60+ projects. Red Nose Day is their biggest annual fundraising campaign and makes a significant contribution to this work. For more information visit: http://www.curekids.org.nz

    – Published by MIL OSI in partnership with NewzEngine.com

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Work to strengthen Auckland’s planning rules amps up

    Source: Auckland Council

    Over the next few months, Auckland Council will take the first steps to engage and consult Aucklanders on work to strengthen how the Auckland Unitary Plan addresses natural hazards, including flooding, erosion and landslides.  

    Councillor Richard Hills, Chair of the Policy and Planning Committee, explains how a process known as deliberative democracy will be used to consult with a representative sample of Aucklanders.  

    “The deliberative democracy process allows us to gain insights from Aucklanders on what can be quite a complicated subject. We’re early in the engagement and consultation process for the plan change, but doing this work means we’re able to capture the views of Aucklanders as it shapes up. As a result, our communities’ views are considered at different stages, rather than just through the Resource Management Act submissions process.  

    “It’s also one of the steps we can take to get feedback from Aucklanders while we wait for changes that the government is making to legislation, so we can change the Auckland Unitary Plan to better deal with natural hazards. Even though we’ve heard loud and clear our communities want urgent action since our devastating floods and storms in 2023, we cannot move forward on this until the government changes the law to allow us to do so.”  

    What is deliberative democracy? 

    Deliberative democracy allows a diverse group of people to learn about a topic in detail, before coming to a collective decision to answer a question. Aucklanders will take part in this process, and will represent the demographics, needs and interests of those living in the region. 

    Participants are randomly selected beforehand, so they represent the wide-ranging views of Aucklanders. The process is often used to gain views on complex topics. It allows participants to have fair and reasonable discussions, share their views, hear the views of others and deliberate before coming to a collective view at the end of the process. 

    These views are then collated with others gained from across Auckland’s communities to give direction on the next stages of the plan change.  

    What is being asked?  

    Phill Reid, Manager Aucklandwide Planning, explains that participants will get an overview of why the work to strengthen the Unitary Plan is needed and what it could entail, saying that they will also discuss changing the Auckland Unitary Plan to better address the risks that natural hazards pose. 

    “While the Unitary Plan can’t stop natural hazards from happening, there are rules and regulations we can add or change to strengthen it against the risks from those hazards. Before we can do this work, we need to understand the level of risk that Aucklanders feel is tolerable or intolerable – this will influence any new rules or restrictions that are brought in and this is what participants will be asked to come to a consensus on.

    “For example, should new homes be able to be built in areas subject to flooding at all? If the group decides they should, then we need to look at what changes we can make to planning rules that don’t negatively impact those living there, their neighbours and their properties.

    “We know Aucklanders would like the Unitary Plan to address natural hazards – and we were given this direction by the council’s Planning, Environment and Parks Committee in mid-2023. The insight we get from this type of engagement will help shape up the next steps.”  

    Would you like take part in future deliberative democracy processes?  

    Deliberative democracy is a form of engagement Auckland Council uses on different topics ahead of a full consultation or submissions process. If you’d be interested in taking part in this kind of process, you can let us know here.   

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government and sector to improve Forestry ETS Registry

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Forestry Minister Todd McClay today announced the establishment of a Forestry Sector Reference Group to drive better outcomes from the Forestry Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) Registry.

    “We are committed to working with the forestry sector to provide greater transparency and engagement on the forestry ETS registry as we work to reduce costs.  

    “This group will help the Government to restore confidence and certainty for Forestry”, Mr McClay says.

    The establishment of the Reference Group follows an independent review of the operational costs of the forestry ETS Register announced earlier this year.

    “Forest owners have raised concerns about the excessive costs that had been imposed upon them by the previous Labour government who put a $30.25 per hectare annual levy for participation in the Registry. 

    “I agree with the sector that this cost is unreasonable – the Reference Group is part of our response to reduce costs and drive greater efficiency.

    “In response, the Government has cancelled the 2023/24 annual charge that forest owners were required to pay to participate in the ETS Registry.

    “Today I am releasing the independent report that outlines where the current system fell short of the Coalition Government and sector’s expectations.

    “The 4,000 plus forestry participants deserve to have confidence in the system designed to manage their ETS obligations. There is a cost to the register, but they shouldn’t have to pay for the last government’s mistakes,” Mr McClay says.

    “any of the issues identified in the report have now been addressed, and the Reference Group will help prioritise work that can reduce the cost and unnecessary regulatory duplication in the ETS Registry. The Government will shortly consult on a new Forestry ETS Registry Levy for the 2024/2025 financial year.

    “Forestry plays an important role in helping New Zealand meet its emissions reductions obligations and grow our economy.”

    The independent review of the Forestry ETS Operational Costs report is available HERE

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reminder: State Highway 1 Weld Pass night-works begin next week

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Contractors will carry out essential maintenance work on State Highway 1 Weld Pass next week as Marlborough’s summer maintenance season continues.

    Night works are planned from 20 to 23 October (Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights) between 7pm and 5am. These times have been brought forward by one hour from original plans following feedback from the community and freight industry.

    State Highway 1 Weld Pass will be closed to all traffic while the work is completed.

    Contractors will replace culverts and carry out drainage, guardrail and pre-seal repairs and stabilisation. They will install raised line markings, clear surface water channelling and shoulder edge breaks, and complete other general works.

    Because of the work involved and the narrowness of the highway through Weld Pass, night closures are the best way to get the work done as quickly and safely as possible.

    While there will be a midnight opening each night to allow queued traffic through the work site, the closure will create delays for people travelling between Blenheim and Christchurch.

    Drivers must factor it into their travel plans. This is especially critical for people with ferry connections as the inland route is a significantly longer trip.

    Every effort is being made to reduce the impact on road users. Maintenance is done at night when there is less traffic on the road. It has been timed to avoid upcoming public holiday weekends, including Labour and Marlborough Anniversary weekends.

    Road users are reminded of other minor summer maintenance and resilience works around the region, including daytime works on State Highway 63 in the Wairau Valley and State Highway 6 at Rai Saddle.

    Further maintenance work and night closures are planned for Weld Pass over the next six to nine months. Additional updates will be provided ahead of planned works in January/February and late April/May next year.

    Works schedule

    • Sunday, 20 October, Monday 21 October, Tuesday 22 October and Wednesday 23 October. 7 pm to 5 am.
    • Full road closure – no suitable local road detours available. An alternative route to Christchurch is via the inland route – St Arnaud, Murchison, Lewis Pass. This is a significantly longer route and has much longer travel times.
    • There will be one opening each night at midnight to let queued traffic through the work area. The northbound lane will travel first, followed by the southbound lane.
    • If works are delayed due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, Thursday 24 October will be a contingency night.
    • Road users must follow the instructions of contractors and obey all temporary speed limits and traffic controls.

    Works location

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police catch up with alleged fleeing driver

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A 50-year-old man is facing the court, after he allegedly failed to stop for Police on the North Shore last night.

    Just before 9.30pm, a Police unit saw a vehicle being driven well over the legal speed limit on the Northern Motorway.

    Waitematā Road Policing Manager, Senior Sergeant Andrew Hawkins, says the driver was signalled to stop. He slowed down but did not pull over.

    “As Police pulled alongside this vehicle, the driver has sped up again, and fled. We did not pursue and followed the vehicle’s movements on traffic cameras.

    “The vehicle exited the motorway at Onewa, and officers soon found it abandoned on Tarahanga Street in Northcote.

    “The alleged driver was quickly located nearby but claimed to have no knowledge of the vehicle. Its keys were found in his pocket, and after declining breath and blood tests, he was arrested.”

    The 50-year-old man is scheduled to appear in the North Shore District Court today facing charges of failing to stop, reckless driving, driving contrary to a zero-alcohol limit and refusing to give blood.

    The man’s vehicle was also impounded.

    “This was great work from our staff to bring the incident to a safe and satisfying conclusion,” Senior Sergeant Andrew Hawkins says.

    “We won’t tolerate this abhorrent and reckless driving behaviour. The alleged offender’s actions put other motorists at great risk, and we are happy his vehicle is now off the road.”

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reminder: Tasman highway maintenance closure planned – State Highway 60 Mariri Causeway

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    The State Highway summer maintenance programme will be in full swing in Tasman in October with new chipseal to be laid on the State Highway 60, Mariri Causeway (south of Motueka).

    A daytime road closure will occur this coming weekend Saturday, 19 October, from 7am to 5pm when road workers will chipseal a one-kilometre section of the highway.

    The work has been planned for a Saturday to keep disruption to an absolute minimum. It is outside of school hours, there are fewer trucks on the road, and no public transport will be operating

    A local road detour will be available via Robinson Road, Main Road Lower Moutere, Wildman Road, and Quayle Street (otherwise known as High Street South). The same detour will apply in reverse for motorists travelling from Motueka to Richmond.

    This detour is expected to add up to 10 minutes to travel time. Drivers travelling between Richmond and Motueka must allow extra time for their journeys.

    The Great Taste Cycle Trail will remain open, but the detour route means it will be affected by increased traffic.

    Drivers and cyclists must share the road with care. Cyclists need to be aware there will be more vehicles around them, and drivers must look out for cyclists as well.

    Once the chipsealing is completed, the Mariri Causeway will reopen under a temporary speed limit of 50km/hr to give the chipseal time to bed in. Road workers will then sweep clear any loose chip and re-apply road markings. 

    Drivers must follow all temporary speed limits. They are there to protect the road and vehicles from damage, and to keep people safe. In the event of unforeseen circumstances or bad weather this work will be postponed.

    Works schedule

    • Saturday, 19 October from 7am – 5pm
    • Detour for traffic travelling from Richmond to Motueka is via Robinson Road, Main Road Lower Moutere, Wildman Road and Quayle Street. The reverse will apply for traffic travelling from Motueka to Richmond.
    • The Great Taste Trail will remain open during the works.

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 2 closed at Mt Bruce – Serious crash (SH2 NOW OPEN UNDER STOP/GO)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Update 1:40 pm: State Highway 2 is now open to one lane under stop/go temporary traffic management.

    Drivers can expect delays and should allow extra time for their journeys. They should also take extra care when travelling through the crash site.

    12 October, 1:15 pm:

    Drivers are asked to delay their travel and avoid the area as emergency services attend a serious crash at Mount Bruce, north of Masterton, on State Highway 2.

    The single vehicle crash was reported around 12:45 pm. The highway is currently blocked at the intersection of Hiwitoru Road.

    Drivers travelling between  Masterton and Eketahuna can expect travel delays until the crash scene is cleared and the incident is resolved.

    Drivers travelling between  Masterton and Eketahuna can expect delays until the crash scene is cleared and the incident is resolved.

    Road users must follow the instructions of emergency services and contractors and obey all traffic management instructions.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    Highway conditions – Wellington(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa and WelTec team up again following successful Try-a-Trade programme

    Source: Whitireia and WelTec

    Following the introduction of the Try-a-Trade pilot in March, Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa is excited to again offer the programme and encourage members of their community to consider pathways into further education or employment via trades training.
    Thanks to initial funding received from Oranga Tamariki, the Ministry of Social Development (MSD), and Te Puni Kōkiri, Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa was able to co-design a pilot Try-a-Trade programme with WelTec which was delivered through March, April and May this year.
    We were thrilled to receive initial funding for the pilot and run the first Try-a-Trades programme, says Wirangi Luke, Te Tumu Whakarae (Chief Executive) of Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa. “Feedback from those who took part in the pilot indicated that the training gave them more confidence in their skills and abilities and supported several of them to step into work.”
    “We heard from participants that they valued seeing what trades training was like, and that the programme developed skills they felt would help them into employment. Feedback indicated that it built self-awareness and confidence and participants said they felt more ready to gain experience through voluntary work or work placements, and plan for their future.”
    A second Try-a-Trade programme delivered by WelTec kicks off on 17 October and will run for 7 weeks. The programme is for those who are not currently working, studying or in training and offers the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge in foundational trades training. It is designed to give participants a snapshot of what training in different trades would be like, with workshops covering mechanical engineering, plastering, plumbing, carpentry, tiling, painting and electrical.
    Mark Oldershaw, Executive Director for Whitireia and WelTec, welcomes those who would like to give the Try-a-Trade programme a try. “We value our partnership with Te Rūnanganui o Te Āti Awa and this is an important way we can support their educational goals and our local Lower Hutt community.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Paper highlights significant burden of healthcare-associated infections in public hospitals

    Source: Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission

    Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in public hospitals are estimated to have cost the health care system $955 million in 2021 and to have caused more disability than road traffic crashes.
    These infections can have a significant impact on patients and their whānau, causing longer hospital stays, delaying return to work or normal activities and, in severe cases, can lead to death. There are also additional costs for primary and community-based care, such as follow up GP visits and rehabilitation.
    A paper produced by Te Tāhū Hauora Health Quality & Safety Commission on the annual economic burden of HAIs in terms of cost, deaths and disability has now been published in the Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology journal.
    It highlights this national burden and will inform a strategy to reduce HAIs across Aotearoa New Zealand.
    Clinical lead of the surgical site infection improvement programme at Te Tāhū Hauora and clinical microbiologist, Dr Arthur Morris, says that understanding the burden infections have on the health care system is an important step toward making positive change.
    Dr Morris says, ‘Our data from 2021 shows that the burden of infections on the health care system is high. However, there are already quality improvement activities underway in districts to reduce them happening.
    ‘One example is the Surgical Site Infection Improvement Programme, which has achieved and sustained 20 and 25 percent reductions in infections following orthopaedic and cardiac surgery respectively.
    ‘Our goal is to identify which of those activities will have the biggest impact and then roll them out on a national level.’
    Dr Morris says our rate of healthcare-associated infections is not unusual internationally.
    ‘It’s difficult to compare the rate of healthcare-associated infections in New Zealand with those of other countries because there are differences in the surveillance methods.
    ‘However, reviewing other countries using similar methodology showed the prevalence of these infections in adult patients in New Zealand was comparable to Europe, Wales and Switzerland and less than that of Australia and Singapore.’
    Te Tāhū Hauora is working with the health care sector to identify the priorities for improving infection prevention and control practices to reduce healthcare-associated infections.
    Background
    Te Tāhū Hauora, in partnership with district health boards, carried out Aotearoa New Zealand’s first national point prevalence survey (PPS) of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) in public hospitals in 2021.
    A report was published by Te Tāhū Hauora in 2022 and the findings were published in Journal of Hospital Infection in 2023.
    The data from the national point prevalence survey has now been used to calculate the annual economic burden of HAIs in terms of cost, deaths and disability. These findings are detailed in the paper published in the Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology journal, ‘The burden of healthcare-associated infections in New Zealand public hospitals 2021’.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BusinessNZ – Welcoming investment

    Source: BusinessNZ

    BusinessNZ has welcomed the Government’s pledge to improve the policies holding back overseas investment.
    The Government has indicated it will change the Overseas Investment Act and the policy settings for foreign investment, within the next year.
    BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich said the current rules make it difficult and uncertain for overseas investors to consider investing here.
    “As a result we are missing out on investment that is going to other economies.
    “BusinessNZ has long advocated for new policy settings to allow us to gain the benefits of overseas capital – to grow businesses and assets and grow New Zealanders’ incomes.
    “Business will be heartened by the move.
    “The Prime Minister’s suggestion of a service similar to Ireland’s Industrial Development Agency – to provide information, help and a courteous welcome to potential investors – is also encouraging.
    “New Zealand needs to make it clear that we welcome investment.” 
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police catch up with “cereal” shoplifter

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A man with a swag of shoplifting charges totalling nearly $40,000 and who has been evading Police since April, will now face court.

    Police caught up with the 24-year-old on the weekend, following months of enquiries into his whereabouts.

    “The alleged offender had multiple warrants for his arrest,” Inspector Rakana Cook, of Counties Manukau East Police, says.

    “Our teams had been working hard to locate this person, who is now facing 29 shoplifting charges for various offences across supermarkets in Tāmaki Makaurau.”

    Inspector Cook says enquiries led officers to a home in Manurewa, where the suspect was located and taken into custody without issue.

    “It’s pleasing we have been able to hold this offender to account and prevent any further victimisation.

    “We take these matters seriously and our staff will continue to target recidivist retail offenders.”

    Police continue to encourage the public to report offending as it happens by calling 111.

    Other matters can be reported after the fact by going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 or calling 105.

    The man will appear in Manukau District Court today and Police have opposed bail.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Labour weekend closure for Newton Rd westbound on-ramp

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advises crews will be carrying out bridge joint replacement on the Newton Road westbound on-ramp over Labour Weekend, with overnight preparation works getting underway from this Sunday (20 October).

    While the bridge joints remain safe, they are nearing the end of their life and Labour weekend provides our crews with an opportunity to carry out the replacement to ensure the on-ramp stays safe and reliable for years to come.

    Crews will be working continuously from 9pm on Friday 25 October to 5am on Tuesday 29 October. During this time, Newton Road westbound on-ramp will be closed, and people will need to use alternative on-ramps at St Lukes Road or Hobson Street.

    There will also be lane and speed restrictions on Newton Road, with traffic flow maintained in both directions. Piwakawaka Street will be one way during this time, with entry from Newton Road only. The detour from Ian McKinnon Drive to Newton Road will be via Upper Queens Street.  

    The pedestrian path from Newton Road to Takau Street will also be closed.  Pedestrians will need to use the alternative route via Piwakawaka Street, Ian McKinnon Drive, Devon Street and Virginia Ave West.

    It is key that this work is undertaken during low traffic periods. A number of repairs have been carried out on this joint previously and we are keen to minimise any further disruption to road users. This work has been scheduled to avoid disrupting peak travel times during the week, while still giving our crews the time required to complete the bridge joint installation.

    We appreciate there will be increased noise for residents and businesses in the area, and delays for road users. To avoid delays we recommend using alternative routes that do not include Newton Road.  

    To prepare for the works over Labour Weekend the team will carry out night works from Sunday 20 October to Thursday 24 October between 10pm and 5am. They will be removing the existing bridge joint and installing temporary steel plates. During this time there will be lane restrictions on Newton Road and Piwakawaka Street and the Newton Road westbound on-ramp will be closed. Please follow traffic management instructions and signposted detour routes.

    The bridge joint replacement work is weather dependant and may be moved to the next suitable dates in 2025.

    The works, including detour maps  

    Please take care when travelling through our work sites and watch out for our crews as they undertake important work to improve our roads. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

    NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out these essential repairs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reminder of upcoming lane closure – SH1 Otaika Road, Whangārei

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is reminding Northland motorists that on Sunday 20 October the northbound lane on SH1 Otaika Road between Rewa Rewa Road and Maunu Road will be closed for essential power pole maintenance.

    Prior to this, preparation work will occur on Thursday 17 October and Friday 18 October between 9am and 4pm under stop/go traffic control.

    The northbound detour will be in place between 7am and 4pm, with more information available on the Northpower outages page:

    Northpower outages(external link)

    Motorists are asked to follow marked detour routes and expect delays during this time. 

    Detour route for SH1 northbound:

    1. Turn right into Rewa Rewa Road/Kioreroa Road
    2. Turn left onto Port Road/Okara Drive
    3. Turn left onto Porowini Avenue
    4. Turn left onto Maunu Road before joining SH1 Otaika Road. 

    The detour route will add approximately eight minutes to your journey.

    Important note for Heavy Vehicles (HPMV)

    The detour route is not approved for HPMV. HPMV will be parked and grouped together, and escorted through the closure approximately every 20 minutes, as required.

    Please take care when travelling through our work sites and watch out for our crews as they undertake important work to improve our roads. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

    People are urged to plan ahead and use the NZTA Journey Planner for real time traffic information.

    Journey Planner(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Overnight closure of SH1 Silverdale-Warkworth on Mon 21 Oct

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising motorists of a full closure to both northbound and southbound traffic on State Highway 1 between Silverdale and Warkworth from 9pm on Monday 21 October to 3am on Tuesday 22 October.

    Waka Kotahi will be working with Fire and Emergency NZ (FENZ) and NZ Police to stage an emergency exercise in the Johnstones Hill Tunnel during this time.

    Light vehicles will be detoured via Hibiscus Coast Road and Old State Highway 1. 

    Overweight vehicles will not be able to use Grand Drive in Orewa due to weight restrictions. 

    These emergency exercises are part of an ongoing programme at both the Johnstones Hill Tunnel, Waterview Tunnel and Victoria Park Tunnel and enable emergency response teams to practice, review and update emergency response protocols.

    This closure is weather dependent and may change from advertised dates.

    Please take care when travelling through our work sites and watch out for our crews. Reduce your speed, adhere to the temporary speed limits and follow the directions of traffic management staff and signs.

    NZTA thanks everyone in advance for your patience and apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may cause.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Protecting future kiwi this Save the Kiwi week

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  14 October 2024

    DOC Biodiversity Ranger Kelly Brider says the projected increase is a testament to landscape-scale predator control and community trapping, which has made this large tract of forest a stronghold for Western North Island brown kiwi.

    “The increase would result in 9000 kiwi in Whanganui National Park and surrounds by 2030. But for this to happen, kiwi must grow up in a safe environment, so they will survive and have chicks of their own,” Kelly says.

    Save the Kiwi Week is underway from 14-20 October, so it’s a perfect time to encourage communities to protect kiwi.

    A kiwi avoidance course for dogs is scheduled for 26 October at Gordon Park Scenic Reserve in Whanganui, which is a great way to help keep kiwi safe from dogs.

    “Any dog, big or small, can kill a kiwi, and small dogs can fit into burrows and do significant damage. If you are thinking about taking a dog hunting, or have a farm dog, it’s really important that you do this training,” Kelly says.

    “A single adult kiwi can lay up to 200 eggs in her lifetime, and her offspring can produce 800 chicks, so even one death is devastating for populations.”

    As well as ensuring your dog is ‘kiwi avoidance trained’, dog owners can follow other steps to prevent their dogs from harming kiwi.

    “Keep your dog contained on your property, and under control on a lead when out walking. And don’t let your dog roam, as roaming dogs can harm themselves and people, as well as posing a threat to wildlife like kiwi,” Kelly says.

    Check DOC’s website information on where you can take your dog. Dogs are not permitted in kiwi sanctuaries and in many conservation areas.

    For more information about kiwi avoidance training and to book, visit http://www.kiwiavoidancetraining.nz or contact DOC’s Whanganui office whanganui@doc.govt.nz.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Expect delays for your bus journeys into the centre city this weekend

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Detour for southbound buses heading to the Bus Interchange

    Manchester Street at the Lichfield Street intersection will be closed from 9pm, Friday 18 October to 6am, Monday 21 October, causing a detour for most buses heading to the Bus Interchange.

    Affected buses will instead travel down Hereford, Colombo and Lichfield Streets in order to reach the Bus Interchange.

    Eastbound traffic can make the left turn from Lichfield Street onto Manchester Street.

    Route 80 Lincoln/Parklands will travel down St Asaph, Colombo and Tuam Streets instead, and Route 8 Port-to-Port will go via Hereford Street, Durham Street South and Tuam Street, Public Transport operations manager Derek Walsh says.

    “This is expected to cause around six-minutes delay to each bus journey, which will affect the reliability of our services across the network,” he says.

    Bus stop closure on Hereford Street

    Bus stop #53163 on Hereford Street, between Manchester and Colombo Streets, will be affected by the closure. Customers can board or disembark at the Bus Interchange instead. Signage will be up at this bus stop for affected customers.

    “We encourage our customers to leave extra time to get to their destinations, while our buses travel the detour route to the Bus Interchange,” Derek says.

    “We want to thank our customers for their understanding.”

    The planned works are expected to finish by 6am, Monday 21 October.

    Updates on the timing of the work will be available to view on Christchurch City Council’s Facebook page.

    You can view all the detours on the Metro website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have you seen Temuera? Police appeal for information

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Hawkes Bay Police are appealing for information to locate 29-year old Temuera Wakefield, who has been reported missing.

    Temuera was last reported seen at his Napier address in late July, after he left stating he would be back in three weeks.

    Temuera is about 180cm tall, has an afro and is of a thin build. Police believe it is possible that he is still in the Napier area.

    His whanau and Police are concerned for his welfare.

    Police are asking anyone with information about Temueraʼs whereabouts to please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 240901/1924.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rangoli patterns, monkeys, tigers and birds light up the Town Hall

    Source: Auckland Council

    The Auckland Town Hall will turn into temples and a forest of flowers with tigers, deer and elephants roaming the walls in a spectacular 3D light projection show coming to the city centre for BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival.

    The festival is bringing exciting new celebrations to the city centre this October.

    Known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali signifies the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil and the renewal of life. In celebration of this time-honoured festival, the Auckland Town Hall will transform into a dramatic visual narrative of Diwali light and sound.

    After sunset from Monday 14 October through to Wednesday 23 October Aucklanders and visitors will see 3D projections of symbolic Diwali storytelling shining on the historic building in traditional Diwali colours of fuchsia pink, yellow and orange.

    Nick Hill Chief Executive of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited explains how important it is to honour the rich tradition of Diwali in our city.

    “This festival gives us an opportunity to thank our Indian Aucklanders who bring the vitality and creativity of this joyous celebration to the city centre and throughout their communities across the region every year.

    “As part of the Auckland Council group, our team at Tātaki Auckland Unlimited is committed to supporting the cultural vibrancy and prosperity of Tāmaki Makaurau including hosting major events and cultural experiences. We are thrilled to have celebrated Diwali in Auckland for more than two decades,” he says.

    Duane Wichman-Evans, festival director for Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, walks us through the show’s storyboard.

    “As the sun rises in the narrative, we see the Town Hall stencil start to appear. We see images of the Hindu Gods appearing in windows. The pillars start to move and we see deer. A monkey then moves along the side of the building, transforming into four monkeys who climb the tower.

    “The deer walk around the building, stopping to look out to the crowd. Bows shoot arrows at the tower which bursts into fireworks. As the monkey climbs down, the Town Hall is rebuilt into the temple in Ayodhya.

    “Rangoli designs appear and dissolve into flowers becoming the valley of flowers. The flowers are blown away with the wind revealing the temple again with the iconic shape and silhouette of Tamil Nadu scenes. The sun rises and reveals the Sundarbans mangrove forest, with birds flying in the sky. 

    “A herd of Indian elephants arrives in the forest. They walk behind the pillars and through the jungle before the jungle falls away and the rangoli designs return,” Duane Wichman-Evans says.

    Don’t miss the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival taking place during the weekend of 19 and 20 October in and around Aotea Square. Since its inception in 2002 the festival has been a vibrant showcase of traditional and contemporary music and dance with stalls offering delicious Indian delicacies and crafts.

    This 3D light projection for the BNZ Auckland Diwali Festival is presented by Tātaki Auckland Unlimited and supported by Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate. 

    For all dates, times and venues visit http://www.aucklandnz.com/diwali 

    Photos by Bryan Lowe, Auckland Council.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Crash, SH1, Rakaia

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)


    District:

    Canterbury

    State Highway 1, north of Rakaia, has now reopened after this morning’s crash. 

    The crash was reported about 8.40am, on the overbridge near Main Rakaia Road.

    Police thank motorists for their patience. 

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –