NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland Police disrupt alleged kidnapping

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Officers made several arrests in Tāmaki Makaurau early this morning, after responding to an alleged kidnapping incident in Epsom.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Martin Friend, from Auckland City’s Crime Squad, says Police were called to a home address on Coronation Road just after midnight.

    “We received a concerning report that a group of men were trying to force their way into a home.

    “The men allegedly forced entry and presented weapons to an occupant at the address, holding them against their will. They also allegedly stole some personal items, including jewellery.”

    “Officers rushed to the scene and disturbed the alleged offenders, who tried to flee in two vehicles. Police were able to prevent one from leaving, with the occupants then attempting to flee on foot.

    “All of the alleged offenders were eventually taken into custody thanks to the good work of the staff who attended, the Police Dog Unit and the Police Eagle helicopter. 

    Four men aged 18, 20, 22 and 23 are scheduled to appear in the Auckland District Court today facing charges of kidnapping and burglary.

    A 16-year-old male has also been charged with kidnapping and burglary and is set to appear in the Auckland Youth Court.

    “This was a frightening experience for the victim, who thankfully was uninjured during the incident. Support is being provided to them, and we hope the arrests also bring them some reassurance,” Detective Senior Sergeant Friend says.

    “Police will not tolerate unlawful activity that impacts the community’s sense of safety, and we are actively committed to investigating any reports of such behaviour.”

    As the matter is before the court, Police are limited in further comment.

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Backing the bittern: The bird on the brink

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Threats facing the Australasian Bittern (Matuku-hūrepo)

    The bittern’s declining numbers are reflective of the region’s shrinking wetlands, where they’re commonly found. Since European settlement, 90 per cent of freshwater and natural wetlands and half of our coastal wetlands in Waitaha have been lost through human impact. 

    Other threats include collisions with vehicles and starvation caused by:

    • changes in water levels that leave birds ‘high and dry’,
    • lack of food and/or habitat where the species can hunt,
    • and murky water quality (sedimentation) – as bittern are visual feeders. 

    One of the best ways we can help the species is to protect and enhance our remaining wetlands, and where possible, create new wetlands, to provide an optimum breeding and feeding habitat.

    A starving juvenile bittern that was rehabilitated and successfully released – Photo credit: Peter Langlands – Wild Capture

    Elusive ‘spy’ behaviour

    If you’ve seen a bittern, consider yourself lucky! They’re known for their cryptic behaviour and are very good at avoiding people. Principal biodiversity advisor Frances Schmechel says bittern have been referred to as the James Bond of the bird world. 

    “They’re like spies in that they’re very elusive. They kind of skulk around and do a great job at hiding. 

    “If they are in a situation where they’re startled, they’ll stand upright with their bill pointing skyward and sway.” 

    The bittern are also known for the “booming” call that the males make during spring. 

    “It’s such a mystical type of sound to hear in a wetland,” Frances explains. “Some say it’s almost spiritual.”

    Listen to the ‘booming’ sound on this Department of Conservation (DOC) webpage.

    A skulking bittern at Old Mill Lane Wetland – Photo credit: Hilton and Melva Ward

    Preserving raupō habitat

    90 per cent of bittern sightings in Waitaha over the last 15 years have occurred in the Te Waihora and Pegasus Bay areas. Their most important habitat is dense/mature raupō beds on river, wetland or lake edges.

    The wetlands around the margin of Te Waihora are the largest remaining area of wetland habitat in lowland Canterbury, covering around 4,500 hectares. A DOC-run willow control programme, which we’re helping fund, is a key initiative for supporting bittern.

    Not only do willows suck up large volumes of water but they also encroach on native wetland vegetation such as raupō. They create a dense canopy and interfere with the function of the wetland, including destroying spawning grounds for benthic fish (fish that deposit their spawn on or near the bottom of the sea or lake) – which the bittern feed on.

    Their most important habitat is dense/mature raupō beds on river, wetland or lake edges

    At Te Waihora, willows were invading the raupō at an alarming rate. The ‘bittern habitat’ aspect was a key driver for establishing and maintaining the control programme, which began in 2011. 

    DOC biodiversity ranger Allanah Purdie says reversing the spread of willow is a cost-effective and efficient way to support bittern. 

    “Raupō is by far their preferred habitat – so when you remove the willow, you get bittern.” 

    As Allanah points out, the species’ perilous future is representative of the overall condition of wetland systems that remain. 

    “It’s an indicator for all our other wetland species and the health of the ecosystem as a whole, all of which are suffering as a result of long-term wetland degradation.” 

    Community conservation efforts

    In Waimakariri, the Bittern Īnanga Rushland wetland is one of three Kaiapoi projects being undertaken by an extended family who are passionate about restoring biodiversity to the area. 

    One of the aims is to attract bittern, and the site has also been identified as a potential Canterbury mudfish habitat. It is receiving $15,000 in funding this financial year through the Waimakariri Water Zone Committee. 

    The support will help with the control of willows and poplars, along with more than 350 metres of fencing to create a large buffer to protect the rushland and make room for plantings. 

    Landowner Nicky Auld says a bittern is now frequenting the area. 

    “It was very rewarding seeing a bittern for the first time, and it is now a regular visitor to the rushland – where it feeds on eels, fish and whitebait.  

    “We’ve been scattering raupō seeds in the hope that the rushland may become even more attractive to these magnificent birds, and a breeding ground.” 

    Others who have raupō on their property are already in a good position to help. 
    Allanah says wet areas with fresh standing water – about 20 cm deep – are ideal habitat. 

    “Bittern need areas to take-off and land in, so consider keeping the larger stature plants back at least ten metres from the water, with Carex around the margin and then raupō in the middle.  

    “The species is intrinsically linked to areas with marginal or dense vegetation. They don’t like being out in the open and are very prone to disturbance. If you have a disturbance event in a wetland they’ll go to ground or disappear.” 

    Bittern are known for being highly mobile, so when they do disappear – it can be to quite a distance away. One that was fitted with a transmitter was tracked flying from Te Waihora to Blenheim – more than 300 km. 

    The Great Matuku Muster

    Another initiative that’s helping raise awareness of the bittern’s plight is The Great Matuku Muster – which calls on people to listen out for, and record, the males’ ‘boom’ sound. 

    The events take place on one day each month in spring, with the next due on Saturday 19 October and Saturday 16 November, for up to an hour from sunset. 

    The muster is supported by a series of workshops around New Zealand to help people learn more about the bird and what to listen for. To find out more or to sign up, visit lovebittern.com. 

    This initiative runs alongside annual monitoring by regional councils, DOC and volunteers – aligning with bittern breeding season from October to December.  

    Our monitoring is getting underway now at key sites on Environment Canterbury managed land – helping build an updated picture of the species’ local population size. 

    Preventing extinction

    Conservationist Peter Langlands, who’s carried out extensive monitoring of bittern in Waitaha, describes the situation as ‘critical’. 

    “I’m worried that we may lose the source population of bittern in Canterbury. We must act now if we’re to save the species.” 

    Peter believes a collaborative approach to large scale habitat restoration projects, and scaling up wetland creation, will lead to the best conservation outcomes.  

    Frances echoes Peter’s sentiment. 

    “They’re such a mysterious, and surprisingly graceful bird. When you see one for the first time – it’s special. It would be really unfair if we didn’t manage to conserve that experience for people.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Take care, strong winds forecast for Harbour Bridge from this evening

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    Motorists are being encouraged to take extra care if travelling on the Auckland Harbour Bridge this evening, with possible 90km/h west and south-west wind gusts between 8pm tonight and 10am tomorrow (Tuesday 15 October).

    At this stage, the bridge is expected to have four lanes open in each direction during the Tuesday morning peak. However, people are encouraged to look out for the electronic message boards and traffic management, which will be used to indicate any lane closures and reduced speeds, and to follow New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) on Facebook and X (Twitter) for up-to-date information.

    Motorists are urged to drive to the conditions and stay within their lane while travelling across the bridge.

    Drivers of high sided vehicles and motorcyclists are advised to avoid the Auckland Harbour Bridge and use the western ring route on State Highways 16 and 18.

    NZTA thanks road users for their patience and understanding while we work to keep everyone safe.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public aids in drunk driver arrest

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A member of the public who spotted a man behaving in a drunken manner before hopping behind the wheel has aided Police in his arrest.

    At about 8pm on Thursday, a Police unit was flagged down by a member of the public while driving along Onerahi Road.

    Whangārei-Kaipara Area Commander Inspector Maria Nordstrom says the person told Police they had observed a man in a nearby takeaway shop who they believed was intoxicated.

    “The person was able to provide officers with a detailed description of the male and his vehicle.

    “Units have subsequently located the man driving and pulled him over where he was allegedly more than three times the legal alcohol limit.”

    Inspector Nordstrom says the man allegedly admitted to drinking more than a dozen beers and blew an alcohol reading on 805mcgs.

    “We thank those who are alerting us to this behaviour, vigilant reporting is often the key to Police being able to respond in a timely manner and hold people to account for their actions.

    A 57-year-old man has been remanded in custody to reappear in Whangārei District Court on 27 October.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sir Brian Roche new Public Service Commissioner

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today announced the appointment of Sir Brian Roche as the next Public Service Commissioner.

    “I am delighted to appoint Sir Brian to this crucial leadership position,” Mr Luxon says.

    “Sir Brian is a highly respected New Zealander who has held significant roles across the public and private sectors. He has a proven track record of leadership and delivering results and has strong networks in the public sector and business community.

    “He understands how to manage problems, develop talent and drive performance. This aligns well with our Government’s focus on raising the performance of the public service so that New Zealanders get the services they deserve.”

    The office of the Public Service Commissioner is central to New Zealand’s politically neutral public service. The Commissioner leads and oversees the public service’s performance and delivery and employs public service Chief Executives.

    “Throughout his distinguished career, Sir Brian has built trust and confidence with Ministers across successive governments,” Mr Luxon says.

    “He has extensive experience working with stakeholders, including several iwi, and has the capability and credibility to lead public service Chief Executives. He will play a critical part in the public service’s work to meet the Government’s ambitious targets.”

    Sir Brian will begin his new role on 4 November. His appointment is until 30 June 2027, a term of two years and eight months.

    “I would like to acknowledge the leadership and efforts of Heather Baggott, who has acted as Public Service Commissioner while the appointment process for a new Commissioner has been undertaken,” Mr Luxon says.

    “She has stepped into the role and done an admirable job, and I’d like to thank her for her calm and thoughtful leadership during this time.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Two teens caught following mall theft

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Two teenage girls who allegedly attempted to steal items of clothing before fleeing a shopping mall have been caught by Police as they were boarding a bus.

    At about 1.45pm yesterday, Police were notified of two girls who allegedly attempted to take items of clothing from a store in WestCity Waitakere before assaulting a security guard and member of the public.

    Waitematā West Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Kelly Farrant, says Police were swiftly on site and managed to apprehend the two youngsters as they were boarding a bus bound for New Lynn.

    “One alleged offender has run directly into a member of the public while trying to get away, while the other has allegedly assaulted a security guard in an attempt to flee.

    “Thankfully no one was seriously injured, however they were understandably shaken up.

    “This type of brazen crime is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”

    Inspector Farrant says both teenagers were quickly apprehended without further incident.

    “We want to reassure the public that Police are increasing our visibility around malls and transport hubs in the lead up to Christmas. 

    “Those who choose to cause harm to others can expect to be caught and held to account for their actions.”

    A 14-year-old charged with aggravated assault and shoplifting will appear in Waitākere Youth Court on 29 October.

    A 13-year-old has been referred to Youth Aid Services.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: A year later, Kiwis already see ACT’s real change

    Source: ACT Party

    A year after the 2023 election, ACT is celebrating the long list of actions already taken to empower New Zealanders.

    “In Opposition, we spent six years listening to New Zealanders,” says ACT Leader David Seymour. “This resulted in a comprehensive election platform with a commitment not just to change the Government, but to deliver real change.

    “Thanks to New Zealanders’ support, on October 14 we were put in a position to deliver, and less than 11 months after signing the coalition agreement, we’ve made serious progress.

    “The breadth and intensity of our action in Government speaks for itself. Even our critics complain at how we’re punching above our weight for a small team. We call it value for your vote.

    “Below is a list of actions ACT has taken that reflect ideas we campaigned on, and on which Kiwis elected us to deliver. Together, these actions break down barriers for Kiwis working to succeed on their own terms. We’re addressing challenges in the economy, law and order, democracy, education, health and more.”

    THE ECONOMY:

    • Cut wasteful Government spending to get inflation under control.
    • Delivered tax cuts to ease the cost of living.
    • Restored the Reserve Bank’s focused on tackling inflation.
    • Restored the option of 90-day trials for all businesses.
    • Established the Ministry for Regulation to cut red tape to make doing business simpler.
    • Commenced two regulatory reviews for early childhood education and agricultural products.
    • Repealed the Auckland Fuel Tax.
    • Repealed the Ute Tax.
    • Repealed “Fair Pay” Agreements
    • Repealed Labour’s resource management regime.
    • Agreed on core design features for a replacement of the Resource Management Act centred on property rights.
    • Sped up timeframes for overseas investment applications.
    • Increased the use of sanctions for beneficiaries who can work but refuse to take steps to find a job.
    • Eased restrictions to accessing credit under the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act.
    • Scrapped EECA’s “decarbonising industry” (GIDI) fund.
    • Scrapped Auckland Light Rail, the Lake Onslow hydro scheme, and funding for Let’s Get Wellington Moving.
    • Started phasing back in interest deductibility.
    • Suspended the requirement for new Significant Natural Areas.
    • Unveiled a new contracting gateway test to provide certainty to workers and businesses.
    • Began delivering regulatory relief for businesses dealing with anti-money laundering rules.
    • Launched consultation to improve the Holidays Act.
    • Launched a nationwide roadshow to inform improvements to health and safety law.
    • Launched a framework for Regional Deals between central and local government to deliver infrastructure.
    • Stopped blanket speed limit reductions and enabled faster speed limits on our safest roads.
    • Introduced legislation to reverse the oil and gas ban and promote the use of Crown minerals.
    • Introduced tenancy legislation to enable Pet Bonds, restore 90-day ‘no cause’ terminations, and restore tenants’ and landlords’ notice periods to 21 and 42 days.
    • Introduced legislation to improve access to building products available overseas.
    • Introduced a member’s bill to liberalise Easter Trading.

    LAW AND ORDER:

    • Increased funding for Corrections to lift prison capacity.
    • Abolished Labour’s prisoner reduction target.
    • Defunded Section 27 “cultural reports”.
    • Commenced a review of the Firearms Registry.
    • Strengthened consequences for Kāinga Ora tenants who engage in repeated antisocial behaviour.
    • Strengthened Firearms Prohibition Orders.
    • Made gang membership an aggravating factor at sentencing.
    • Introduced legislation to reinstate Three Strikes.
    • Introduced a member’s bill to make rehabilitation or education a condition of parole.
    • Introduced legislation to toughen sentences for attacks on workers and give weight to the victim’s circumstances at sentencing.
    • Introduced legislation to amend Part 6 of the Arms Act affecting clubs and ranges.

    STRENGTHENING DEMOCRACY:

    • Directed the public service to deliver services based on need, not race, and end “progressive procurement” quotas.
    • Abolished the Māori Health Authority.
    • Advanced the Treaty Principles Bill.
    • Restored local referendums on Māori Wards.
    • Scrapped Labour’s law to give 16-year-olds votes in local elections.
    • Broadened the terms of reference of the Covid-19 Royal Commission with a second phase.
    • Defunded the Christchurch Call.
    • Halted work on hate speech laws.
    • Introduced legislation to remove Section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act.
    • Seen Otago University adopt a free speech policy in response to ACT’s coalition agreement.

    EDUCATION:

    • Restored charter schools, now with the option of state school conversion, with the first schools to open next year.
    • Streamlined early childhood education regulations.
    • Delivered an action plan to improve school attendance and started publishing attendance data weekly.
    • Improved the school lunch programme to feed more kids for less money.
    • Switched fees-free university from first year to third.

    HEALTH:

    • Delivered Pharmac its largest-ever budget, which has now funded life-saving medicines.
    • Repealed the Therapeutic Products Act.
    • Restored the sale of medicine containing pseudoephedrine.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Scrapping Fair Pay Agreements saves taxpayers $65 million

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden says the Fair Pay Agreements saves taxpayers $65 million. 

    “Scrapping the Fair Pay Agreements programme saved taxpayers $65 million over five years,” says Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden.

    “One of my first acts in Government was repealing the unfair and unpopular so-called Fair Pay Agreements system, in part because it would have had a detrimental effect on employment patterns and economic productivity.

    “If Fair Pay Agreements had gone ahead, it would have required significant growth in MBIE’s employment services and the Employment Relations Authority because of the increased strain the system would have had on those services.

    “We moved fast on this commitment and removed this blunt tool that would have increased bureaucracy and reduced flexibility for businesses. 

    “This government is committed to lifting productivity and driving economic growth. To do so, there needs to be agile labour markets where employers and employees can agree on terms that suit their unique situation,” Ms van Velden said. 

    The Fair Pay Agreements legislation was repealed in December 2023.

    “New Zealanders elected a Government that would get government spending under control and deliver more efficient and effective public services. We make no apologies for starting to put things right.”.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Expect delays following crash, SH1 Johnsonville off-ramp

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a single vehicle crash on State Highway 1 northbound at the Johnsonville off-ramp.

    The crash was reported to Police at around 4:10pm.

    The Johnsonville off-ramp is partially blocked. Motorists are advised to expect delays.

    Three people have been transported to hospital with minor to moderate injuries.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Internal Affairs saves taxpayers $421 million in Budget 2024

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Internal Affairs Minister Brooke van Velden says this Coalition Government is making sure that taxpayers’ money is being spent responsibly and is better focused on the services that matter most to New Zealanders. 

    “I am proud to announce that in my Internal Affairs portfolio, we found savings for the taxpayer of around $421 million, across the entire Internal Affairs Budget,” says Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden.

    This Coalition Government is delivering on improving the effectiveness, efficiency, and responsiveness of departments. 

    “The savings come from $402.4 million in operating expenses, meaning cost-savings in back-office functions and low value spending programmes. We have also saved taxpayers $18.6 million in capital expenditure over the fiscal forecast period.”  

    “The savings also includes the return of $300 million from the repeal of the Three Waters Reform programme and $112.5 million from operating baseline savings,” says Ms van Velden. 

    The average operating baseline savings delivered by the Vote are $28.1 million from 2024/25, higher than the original target of $26.2 million. There is also a return of unused capital injections of $8.5 million over the fiscal forecast period.

    “My Internal Affairs portfolio has contributed $90.4 million towards baseline savings over the next four years, an average of $22.6 million per year.

    “In December 2023, I instructed the Department of Internal Affairs to review existing baseline expenditure and identify savings options focused on low value programmes, programmes that do not align to Government objectives, and non-essential back-office functions including contractor and consultant spend.

    “The aim was to find 6.5% in operating savings to support the Government’s Initial Baseline Exercise, designed in part to deliver $1.5 billion on average per annum in operating savings as part of Budget 2024. 

    “I’m happy to confirm that Vote Internal Affairs has been able to provide operating baseline savings of 7%. The Department considered its activities and functions and was able to uncover greater opportunities for savings than initially targeted. It was also asked to identify other options, and in response subsequently identified additional savings.”

    While these initial savings in Budget 2024 are significant, they are not the end of the process. I will continue to complete a line-by-line review of the Department to identify opportunities for efficiencies and cost-savings as one of my priorities for the Internal Affairs portfolio. 

    Regarding the repeal of Three Waters Reform programme, the Minister also notes that Budget 2024 includes $40.7 million of new funding for implementing Local Water Done Well.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, Edmund Road, Rotorua

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are responding to a single-vehicle crash on Edmund Road, near Homedale Street, Mangakakahi.

    Emergency services were called to the crash involving a motorbike at around 4.40pm.

    One person is believed to have critical injuries.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

    Motorists are urged to avoid the area if possible and expect delays.

    ENDS

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Yet another Te Whatu Ora decision to further increase losses in aged residential care

    Source: Aged Care Association

    Like the rest of the country, the aged residential care (ARC) sector found out from media on 26 September that there would be no more free Covid-19 rapid antigen tests from 1 October.
    ACA Chief Executive Hon. Tracey Martin says, “This is yet another example of hasty, poorly thought-out cost-cutting that unfairly shifts both the costs and the risks – without consultation or compensation – squarely onto aged care providers and the people they care for.
    Aged care residents are among the most vulnerable to Covid-19, and protecting their safety means we must continue testing as we have been – on the presentation of symptoms, and cohort testing based on exposure risks. Testing is vital to establish whether antiviral agents should be used to reduce the symptoms and improve the outcomes for the people we care for.”
    Martin continued, “Not only is this the compassionate thing to do to protect our elders, but it is in fact the recommended practice for effective infection prevention and control.
    Our calculations estimate that discontinuing free Covid-19 RAT tests will transfer an additional cost of at least $4 million a year to the front line of aged residential care, potentially reaching upwards of $6 million annually. While some larger providers may be able to bulk source tests at $1.82 per test, smaller providers will have to pay the retail rate of approximately $4 per test.”
    We continue to urge Te Whatu Ora to work with us before making these arbitrary decisions in an effort to meet the government’s required cost cutting. We have no confidence that those who made this decision were even aware of the consequences for our elders and those that care for them.
    We call on Te Whatu Ora to reconsider the decision, and to continue to fully cover costs of Covid-19 tests in aged residential care. Additionally, we call for greater involvement of affected communities in future decision-making processes.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economic growth on the Fast-track

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The one-stop-shop Fast-track Approvals Bill, and the 149 projects listed in the Bill, will help rebuild our struggling economy and kick-start economic growth across the country, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop says.

    “Since 2022, New Zealand has battled anaemic levels of economic growth. If we want Kiwi kids to stop moving overseas, better public services, and a lower cost of living: economic growth is the only answer.

    “Our status as a first-world country isn’t guaranteed, and we should never take it for granted. If we want to build a brighter future for New Zealand, we must stop saying no to growth-enhancing projects.

    “For too long, our planning system’s default position has been ’no’. You want to build a housing development? No. You want to build a road? No. You want to build a wind farm? No.

    “We must start saying yes. It is critical to New Zealand’s future.

    “The Fast-track Approvals Bill will help cut through the obstruction-economy, with the 149 projects announced on Sunday demonstrating our commitment to supercharge growth. Commentary from across New Zealand this week has shown just how important this Bill is for our country’s future.

    “Forsyth Barr said that the Fast-track Approvals Bill ‘has the potential to give a much needed injection of energy into the downbeat NZ economy.

    “Katherine Rich, Chief Executive of BusinessNZ said that ‘these projects listed as part of the Fast-track Bill will stimulate job creation and economic activity at a time when we need it most.’

    “James Smith from the National Road Carriers Association said that the projects announced were ‘balanced and achievable’, with ‘a strong emphasis on road and rail developments that will enable productivity to get the country moving again’. 

    “Bridget Abernethy from the Electricity Retailers Association has said that the fast-tracking of renewable projects will  ‘…help provide confidence to build and deliver affordable clean electricity for our low-emissions future.’

    “Finn McDonald from the Employers and Manufacturers Association said that ‘given the recent issues caused by higher energy prices and the demands on generation capacity to further electrify the economy, these new fast-tracked projects have increasing significance’

    “Nick Leggett from Infrastructure NZ said that the list of projects was ‘balanced’, and that ‘it really speaks to the need this country has to get its act together and build some infrastructure’. 

    “Even Gary Taylor, Chairman and Executive Director of the Environmental Defence Society, has conceded that ‘while I come from an environmental perspective, I am also a Kiwi interested in economic welfare of our nation, and a lot of the infrastructure projects look good to go to me, subject to environmental assessment… a lot of the renewable projects, a lot of the housing projects, although there are obviously important questions about impacts from them… a lot of them are all good to go…’

    “The 149 projects chosen by Cabinet to be listed in the Bill will be listed in Schedule 2 of the Bill once the Bill is reported back from the Environment Committee in mid-October. Once the Bill is passed, they will be able to apply to the Environmental Protection Authority to have an expert panel assess the project and apply relevant conditions.

    “New Zealanders can expect economic growth to be at the heart of what this government does. Fast-track is just one part – albeit an important part – of our drive to grow the economy for all Kiwis.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Man found in critical condition, Whangamarino

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Kristine Clarke

    A scene examination has been completed at Hampton Downs Road after a man was located critically injured in the early hours of this morning.

    The victim remains in a critical condition in Auckland Hospital, and Police are in the early stages of determining the circumstances that led to the man being injured.

    Cordons have since been removed and the road has reopened.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who was travelling in the Hampton Downs area between 10pm on Sunday 13 October and 1am this morning, 14 October. This includes any dashcam footage from in the area.

    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: Government Appointments – PSA looks forward to working with new Public Service Commissioner

    Source: PSA

    The PSA hopes the new Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche will be a good advocate for the value of the public service in supporting the health and wellbeing of New Zealanders.
    The PSA congratulates Sir Brian on his appointment. He has taken on this role at a very challenging time when the public service has been eroded by the Government through spending cuts and job losses.
    The PSA looks forward to having a constructive relationship with Sir Brian to ensure the public service is recognised for the great work it does.
    Through his long and distinguished service in many roles, he knows the value public service workers bring to issues. He has worked with governments in the past which have continued to build the public service so it can meet our challenges as a nation.
    We hope he brings to the role the courage to remind Ministers of the critical role that the public service plays.
    Te Kawa Mataaho, the Public Service Commission, has provided valuable leadership in recent years in building a public service that has provided rewarding career paths and one that has driven a consistent reduction in gender pay gaps, well ahead of the private sector.
    The PSA urges Sir Brian to weigh the progress that has been made when he takes on the role next month so he can provide quality advice to the Government that helps it better understand how the public service is helping us progress as a nation. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Commissioner initiated investigation into informed consent finds systems weaknesses

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    A Commissioner initiated investigation into patient consent for the involvement of junior medical staff, students and other trainees at North Shore Hospital has found systems weaknesses but no breach of the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code).
    The Health and Disability Commissioner, Morag McDowell, initiated the investigation following a complaint from a registered nurse who was concerned that trainee doctors and medical students had provided services and received teaching in obstetric and gynaecology services, without patient consent.
    The Commissioner’s opinion considers how consent processes apply to teaching and clinical care situations, having regard to the qualifications and experience of the medical staff providing care.
    In particular, the Commissioner noted the distinction between medical students (who are not qualified as doctors), and trainees (qualified doctors undertaking specialist training – some of whom may be at the start of their careers and others who are very advanced but not yet qualified as a specialist in their chosen field). A critical issue for the investigation was to consider in what circumstances a patient’s participation in teaching needed to be specifically consented to.
    In the course of the investigation, it was identified that informed consent practices, policies and procedures were significantly inconsistent across Aotearoa New Zealand. There was also a lack of clarity about the application of the Code, which clearly requires that teaching involving patients must be undertaken only with their knowledge and consent.
    “Consumers cannot be involved in teaching without giving informed consent, and providers of health and disability services must ensure they have a robust system and culture for obtaining that consent,” said Ms McDowell.
    Ms McDowell found weaknesses in Health NZ Waitemata’s system – including its consent forms – noting the processes minimised student or trainee clinician’s involvement, and didn’t prompt introductions for explanations of the role, involvement or degree of supervision of the trainee. Where verbal discussions may have been held about teaching, they were not adequately documented, she said.
    In relation to the involvement of medical students, Ms McDowell said “Clinicians must be mindful that informed consent is more than just a tick box exercise, and they must be alive to individual patient circumstances. The wording of Health NZ’s 2018 consent form and apparent reliance on it to justify all medical student involvement beyond observation, was a significant weakness in Health NZ’s consent practices.”
    In relation to trainees, who are qualified doctors, there is more complexity when it comes to consent processes. While all medical student involvement in patient care represents teaching, trainees are not always providing care in situations where teaching is taking place, and therefore specific consent about teaching is not required. Each case will turn on its own facts.
    Ms McDowell’s adverse comment addressed consent and policy forms, medical students in theatres, trainees who are part of the team, sensitive examinations, and procedures under general anaesthesia.
    “Basic courtesy and respect for patients apply and, wherever practicable, consumers should know who is to be providing their care and what they will be doing. This is information that a reasonable consumer can expect to receive,” said Ms McDowell. She emphasised the particular importance of sharing this information when consumers are undergoing sensitive or intimate examinations.
    Ms McDowell commended the nurse for raising her concerns, first to Health NZ and then to HDC, noting her complaint offered an opportunity to address significant inconsistencies in approaches to informed consent and knowledge of the Code. She also commended Health NZ for its efforts in undertaking a careful, ongoing review and improvement of its informed consent policy and practice.
    She made a range of recommendations including that Health NZ Waitematā develop patient information about clinical teaching to ensure it is easy to understand and emphasises patient choice. She has also asked Health NZ to report back on progress on its national policy on informed consent. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Kings Quarry extension declined consent under COVID-19 Fast-track Act

    Source: Environmental Protection Authority

    An independent panel has declined resource consent to expand a quarry in Wainui, Auckland.
    Kings Quarry Limited applied for resource consent under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020.
    The project involved expanding an existing quarry at Pebble Brook Road in Wainui, Auckland.
    The decision comes 196 working days after the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority.
    The Environmental Protection Authority is not involved in the decision-making. We provide procedural advice and administrative support to the panel convenor, Judge Laurie Newhook, and the expert consenting panel he appoints.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Clear skies and colder temperatures on the way – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Monday 14 – Thursday 17 October – While showers and wind gusts of up to 90km/h, and possibly also thunderstorms and hail affect northern and central Aotearoa New Zealand today (Monday), MetService is forecasting clear skies for much of the working week.

    A low-pressure system west of Taranaki resulted in a wet and windy start to the week for much of the country, with especially persistent and heavy rain for the south coast of the North Island. MetService’s Kelburn weather station recorded its fifth wettest 9am-9am period for October, measuring 70.2mm of rain, with records there tracing back to 1927. While this persistent rain is on its way out this afternoon, further showers and gusty winds are expected for the North Island as the low begins to traverse the country.

    MetService meteorologist Ngaire Wotherspoon says, “The passage of the low brings a risk of thunderstorms and hail for much of the North Island, with the risk mainly inland for areas south of the Bay of Plenty. Auckland and Northland could see strong wind gusts of 90 km/h this evening.”

    Down south it’s a fine day, but an approaching cold front brings rain with snow to 800 metres over the Deep South tonight. As the front sweeps northwards over the country on Tuesday, colder temperatures will be noticeable, alongside a period of rain for eastern areas.

    Behind the front, skies clear and winds ease, though the cold air lingers. Frosts are in store for the South Island and interior North Island, and daytime temperatures in the east are expected to be 4 – 6°C below their October averages.

    “We expect this fine weather to stick around for much of the working week, before taking a wetter turn over the upper South Island on Friday,” adds Wotherspoon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Hato Hone St John and call handler breach man’s rights in management of 111 call

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    A man’s rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights were breached by Hato Hone St John, and a call handler, said the Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Deborah James, in a decision released today.
    The decision centres on the management of a 111 call from a woman who described symptoms indicating a heart attack being experienced by her husband. An ambulance service took the initial call and then transferred it to St John. The call was prioritised as ‘serious but not immediately life threatening.’
    Approximately 30 mins later, a dispatcher launched an initial assignment tool to identify which ambulances were available. The tool indicated a 27-minute wait for an ambulance and suggested the use of a first response team (Fire and Emergency NZ), which was available to respond. The dispatcher decided this was unnecessary as the patient was alert, breathing easily and had no cardiac history.
    Thirty minutes after her first call, the woman called 111 again because her husband’s condition had deteriorated. Another call handler picked up this call and advised her that an ambulance had not been assigned due to demand, but she did not re-triage the call. The woman told the call handler she would drive her husband to the hospital. The call handler then closed off the incident. Sadly, the man had a heart attack three minutes from the hospital and could not be revived.
    Deborah James found the call handler (Ms B) had deviated from St John’s standard operating procedure (SOP). “…the St John incident review identified that when Mrs A advised Ms B that she would take Mr A to hospital herself, there was a need for Ms B to advise that it might be a good idea to continue waiting for the ambulance response. I note that Ms B’s failure to re-triage Mrs A’s second 111 call may have affected her decision not to advise Mrs A to wait for the ambulance to arrive.”
    Unfortunately, despite the man’s wife telling the call handler that her husband’s condition had worsened, the call handler did not ask for any further information about his symptoms. As a result, Ms James found the call handler had breached the Code by not providing services that complied with professional standards.
    Deborah James found St John had also failed the man by not meeting expected wait times when there was a 30-minute delay in using the initial assignment tool, nor was a welfare check undertaken.
    “There will undoubtedly be times where ambulances are unavailable to respond to incidents immediately. However, it is St John’s responsibility to find ways to mitigate the risks associated with unavailable ambulances. In my view, conducting welfare checks every 30 minutes (as outlined in St John’s SOP) is an appropriate tool in mitigating such risk.”
    She also found St John breached the Code by not providing the man (through his wife) with information he could have expected to receive under the circumstances. This included not conducting a welfare check and not advising the woman about delays in dispatching an ambulance, or for her to wait for an ambulance response.
    Ms James made an adverse comment about the St John dispatcher who launched the initial assignment tool noting her concerns about the delay, despite the busyness at the time, saying it was a useful safety netting tool that should have been deployed. Ms James was also critical that the dispatcher did not document his reasons for not dispatching the first response unit.
    Ms James has recommended the call handler formally apologise to the woman. Further recommendations include that St John provide additional training for call handling and dispatch staff, on the importance of welfare checks and to update its dispatching guides to be clearer about how to use the initial assignment tool.
    St John has made a range of changes since the event which are outlined in the decision. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Woman’s rights breached when pharmacist dispenses incorrect medication

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner
    A woman’s rights under the Code of Health and Disability Consumers’ Rights were breached by a pharmacist when she dispensed incorrect medication, the Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner has found.
    Dr Vanessa Caldwell said the pharmacist failed to provide services which complied with legal, professional, ethical and other relevant standards as a result, in a decision released today.
    The case centres on the incorrect dispensation of Salazopyrin instead of Pentasa for management of the woman’s gastrointestinal issues by the pharmacist. The woman took the Salazopyrin for seven weeks, assuming it was a substitute, but started feeling very unwell after four weeks. She immediately felt better when she received her correct prescription for Pentasa after returning to the pharmacy where the error was discovered.
    “The Pharmacy Competence Standards state that a pharmacist must maintain a logical, safe, and disciplined dispensing procedure. In this case the pharmacist did not comply with this standard as she failed to double check that the correct medication had been dispensed,” said Dr Caldwell.
    She added that the same standards states that “a pharmacist should monitor the dispensing process for potential errors and act promptly to mitigate them. In this case, the pharmacist did not comply with this standard, as she was not aware of her mistake for approximately seven weeks when she was alerted to the error….”
    The pharmacist agreed to a breach of Right 4(2) of the Code proposed by Dr Caldwell who said she had demonstrated a willingness to achieve a speedy resolution and make changes. She also noted there was the potential for a more restorative approach to managing the issue given the pharmacy is the woman’s long-term provider.
    Dr Caldwell made an adverse comment against the pharmacy for not keeping relevant standard operating procedures up to date. However, she commended the pharmacy’s manager for promptly making changes to prevent the error from happening again.
    Dr Caldwell recommended the pharmacist, and pharmacy, formally apologise to the woman and for the pharmacy to rewrite its relevant dispensing standard operating procedures, and audit and evaluate the effectiveness of the new policies and processes and report back to HDC on the results and corrective actions taken. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health Investigation – Woman’s rights to appropriate care for diabetes breached by Health NZ Te Tai Tokerau

    Source: Health and Disability Commissioner

    A woman’s rights to receive an appropriate standard of care were breached over a two month period, which included several admissions to Kaitaia Hospital, said Deputy Commissioner Rose Wall in a report published today.
    The woman’s rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights (the Code) were breached by Health New Zealand Te Tai Tokerau (previously Te Whatu Ora) for care by multiple staff.
    The woman suffered from multiple complications from Type 2 diabetes. On several occasions she presented, or was admitted, to Kaitaia Hospital for treatment. Following a deterioration in her symptoms, and subsequent hospital admission, she underwent a toe amputation, followed by a below-knee amputation and further surgery. Sadly, she died from a bacterial infection in her right groin.
    Ms Wall Found Health NZ Te Tai Tokerau breached the Code for failing to provide services to the woman with reasonable care and skill.
    “Health NZ Te Te Tokerau was the group provider with overall responsibility for ensuring that the woman received timely intervention to try to avert the profound difficulties she ultimately experienced,” Ms Wall said.
    During the woman’s two-week hospital admission, the clinicians failed to assess and consider the cause of her ulcers adequately, Ms Wall said.
    In addition, she was seen on multiple occasions over two months and despite a clear need, was not referred to the vascular service or the diabetes clinic. “In my view this was a failing of multiple staff over the course of her care,” Ms Wall said.
    Ms Wall also made an adverse comment about the registered nurse at the medical centre who assessed the woman’s foot and incorrectly classified the extent of disease present. This led to an inappropriate referral to the community podiatry service, rather than the diabetes clinic.
    Ms Wall acknowledged, however, that the nurse was working within a system where guidance and terminology were confusing, which enhanced the likelihood of an error.
    In relation to the community podiatrist who returned the referral to the system administrator, Ms Wall made an educational comment. The community podiatrist correctly identified that the referral should go to the diabetes clinic but did not provide adequate clarity in her explanation for her referral rejection. Ms Wall acknowledged issues with the referral system that did not have a default requirement to leave a note of explanation. 
    In addition to the investigation into the care provided to the woman, Ms Wall also investigated whether the Primary Health Organisation contracted by Northland District Health Board to deliver community podiatry services in Northland (PHO 1) provided an appropriate standard of care to multiple consumers from July 2017 to June 2020.
    Considering the overall community podiatry services in Northland, Ms Wall made an adverse comment about PHO1.
    “I am critical that PHO 1 did not provide an adequate community podiatry referral system and processes, which affected multiple consumers,” Ms Wall concluded.
    While noting that PHO 1 was removed from the Companies Register in March 2022 and no longer has legal status, Ms Wall wrote to Manatū Hauora|Ministry of Health and the Health NZ National Office highlighting her concerns.
    Since the events, a number of changes have been made by Health NZ, with further recommendations outlined by Ms Wall in her report.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Adjustment to early childhood education in the consumers price index

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Adjustment to early childhood education in the consumers price index – The FamilyBoost early childhood education (ECE) rebate scheme began on 1 July 2024. The September 2024 quarter consumers price index (CPI), to be released on Wednesday, 16 October at 10:45am, will include an adjustment to reflect the introduction of the rebate scheme.

    An adjustment has been made to the ECE subgroup in the CPI to reflect the rebate households will receive through the FamilyBoost scheme.

    Inland Revenue has provided data about the anticipated fall in household expenditure on ECE in 2024/25 due to FamilyBoost. A fall of about $174 million is expected in CPI expenditure on ECE.

    The movement for the ECE subgroup in the September 2024 quarter will incorporate the regular price changes for ECE, and this adjustment.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government releases plan for affordable electricity

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government Policy Statement (GPS) on electricity clearly sets out the Government’s role in delivering affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices, Energy Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “New Zealand’s economic growth and prosperity relies on Kiwi households and businesses having access to affordable and secure electricity at internationally competitive prices. This is one of the Government’s top priorities,” Mr Brown says.

    “The GPS outlines our expectation that the Electricity Authority will drive a more competitive, fuel agnostic, electricity sector that works in the long-term interests of consumers and avoid excessive prices. 

    “We know that in the coming years New Zealand will see greater electrification of transport and process heat. This will shift demand from imported fuels towards domestically produced electricity, and see more distributed electricity generation brought online to bolster regional resilience.

    “The Government has a goal of doubling renewable electricity generation to meet this increase in demand, and has committed to policy decisions that would enable more private investment in generation.

    The GPS provides certainty about the Government’s role in the sector. This certainty will help create a stable investment environment for renewable energy to drive affordability through security of supply.

    “Previous government interventions pushed prices up and had a chilling effect on investment. The GPS confirms the role for Government is to ensure the market settings are right, to enable the private sector to invest and consumers to take advantage of innovations,” Mr Brown says.

    The Electricity Authority will now have regard to the GPS as they work to ensure the market setting are right to unleash private sector investment and to enable consumers to take advantage of innovations in energy supply.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Man to face court over bus assault

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have charged a man over an unprovoked assault on an Auckland bus driver.

    Auckland City West Police have been investigating an assault that occurred in the Kingsland area last Friday, 4 October.

    Area Commander Inspector Alisse Robertson says the bus had stopped on New North Road at the time.

    “The offender allegedly struck the driver, before running away from the bus,” she says.

    “Our staff attended at the time and began to make enquiries into the matter.”

    Overnight, Police located a 25-year-old Henderson man and arrested him.

    He has been charged with assault and will appear in the Auckland District Court today.

    Inspector Robertson says: “I know when these events occur it impacts the staff and commuters who use these services.

    “More than 13,500 bus services alone operate across our city every day, most without incident.

    “There is no place for violence, and when these incidents occur we will continue to identify and prosecute offenders.”

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: State Highway 32 closed between Old Taupō Rd, Tokoroa and SH30

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    State Highway 32 (SH32) is closed at Kinleith between Old Taupō Rd, Tokoroa and State Highway 30 (SH30) due to a serious crash.

    The closure point is north of the intersection with Albacore Road West.

    State Highway 1 (SH1) is also closed  between Tokoroa (SH32) and Kinleith (SH30) in both directions until Mid-November, for major renewal works.

    SH1 Tīrau to Waiouru maintenance

    Road users are advised to plan their journey.

    For northbound traffic, the detour is via Rotorua. Turn Right from SH1 onto SH30, left at the roundabout from SH30 onto SH5, then continue along SH5 until you rejoin SH1 in Tīrau.

    Southbound Traffic – detour via Rotorua as per above in reverse.

    The serious crash unit is on site and the road is expected to remain closed until early afternoon.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Asphalt resurfacing for section of SH2 in Dannevirke

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A section of State Highway 2 (SH2) in Dannevirke will be closed to northbound traffic for 4 days, while the road is resurfaced later this month.

    This asphalt resurfacing work will take place on SH2 Stanley Street, between Denmark Street and Miller Street from Tuesday 29 October.

    During day-time work hours, a detour will be in place for northbound traffic; southbound traffic will continue to flow freely on SH2. The detour is suitable for all vehicle types.

    Crews will be working from 6.30am to 5pm each day between Tuesday 29 October and Friday 1 November (weather permitting).

    During these work hours, northbound traffic will be detoured via Rawhiti Street, Queen Street, Allan Street and onto Cole Street, before rejoining SH2.

    A temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place for southbound traffic near the worksite. Outside of work hours, SH2 will be open with a reduced speed limit in place.

    This resurfacing work will improve the durability and long-term condition of this section of road. A one-way daytime closure allows crews to complete the work as efficiently and safely as possible while keeping traffic moving, and minimising ongoing disruption and long delay times.

    Resident and business access remains and northbound road users are advised to follow the detour to get to your destination. The detour is expected to add less than 5 minutes to journey times.

    Thank you for your patience and understanding while we complete this important road renewal work.

    We know that a well-maintained state highway network promotes safety and improves options for moving people and freight. 

    Other works underway or coming up on SH2

    • State Highway 2, rebuild: Work has begun on a section of SH2 at Matamau, near Factory Road, north of Dannevirke. Stop/go will be in place each day for about 4 weeks, finishing on 30 October.
    • State Highway 2, resurfacing: Asphalting works are underway on SH2 near the Mangatera Stream Bridge, north of Dannevirke. Stop/go is in place at night, with works expected to finish on Saturday 12 October.
    • State Highway 2, rebuild: From 31 October – 28 November, road rebuild work will take place on SH2 in Papatawa, north of Ball Road, between Woodville and Dannevirke. Daytime stop/go will be in place.

    More information about SH2 Dannevirke works

    For more information about the 2024/2025 road maintenance season, please visit:

    NZTA’s Manawatū-Whanganui maintenance and operations webpage

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Research and innovation key to Primary Sector Award win for Next Generation Apples

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Next Generation Apples – Sassy™ Apples clinched the Primary Sector Award category at the 2024 New Zealand Food Awards in Auckland last night (Thursday, 10 October 2024).

    Launched in 2023, Sassy™ Apples is a new apple variety developed by Plant and Food Research, and grown and marketed by New Zealand-based growers Next Generation Apples, comprising Golden Bay Fruit and Taylor Corp.

    “Sassy™ Apples were developed through plant-breeding techniques to create an apple with a crisp texture, high flavour, long storage and shelf life, novel skin and flesh colour, optimal harvest maturity, and pest and disease resistance,” says Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director-general of New Zealand Food Safety.

    “It is exciting to see how investment in research can lead to practical advances without sacrificing on bite or flavour.

    “Sassy™ Apples are an example of excellence across the supply chain – from research to the orchards, to our supermarkets. Our judging panel for the Primary Sector Award noted the impressive research and innovation behind this product.”

    Mr Arbuckle said the high calibre of entries in the Primary Sector category this year reflected an exciting and thriving food and fibre sector.

    The other finalists were Waitoa Free Range Chicken (Waitoa Flavour Kit, Thai Green Curry), Good Guise Paneer, and Akaroa Salmon (Hot Smoked Mānuka Salmon Portion 180g).

    “All finalists demonstrated a commitment to the kind of quality and ability to overcome challenges which has always formed the foundation of New Zealand’s food production,” Mr Arbuckle said.

    The New Zealand Food Awards are held annually by Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University to celebrate food and beverage excellence and innovation in Aotearoa.

    New Zealand Food Awards

    New Zealand Food Safety has been involved with the awards for more than 20 years, and has been a sponsor since 2008.

    Vutter Avo Spreadable – a dairy-free butter, produced by Feliz Wholefoods – took out the 2024 Supreme Award.

    For general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

    For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, SH32, Whakamaru Road

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died following a serious crash on State Highway 32 this morning.

    Emergency services were called to the two-vehicle crash on Whakamaru Road at around 6.30am.

    Sadly, the person died at the scene.

    One other person received moderate injuries and was transported to hospital.

    The road has since reopened.

    Police would like to thank motorists for their cooperation and patience during the road closures as it is important for us to conduct a scene examination and gather all the information we can.

    While enquiries into the crash are ongoing, Police are seeking the public’s help and want to hear from witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage that may have captured the crash, or the events prior to the crash.

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

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

    Please use reference number P060245240.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Food prices increase 1.2 percent annually – Stats NZ media and information release: Selected price indexes: September 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Food prices increase 1.2 percent annually – 11 October 2024 – Food prices increased 1.2 percent in the 12 months to September 2024, following a 0.4 percent increase in the 12 months to August 2024, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    Higher prices for restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food and grocery food drove the annual increase in food prices, up 3.5 percent and 2.7 percent, respectively.

    The price increase in restaurant meals and ready-to-eat food was due to higher prices for lunch/brunch, takeaway coffees, and hamburgers.

    The price increase in grocery food was due to higher prices for olive oil, butter, and chocolate biscuits.

    “The price for a 1-litre bottle of olive oil has increased by about 58 percent since this time last year, with an average price of $21.56,” consumer prices manager Nicola Growden said.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: International travel: August 2024

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    International travel: August 2024 – 11 October 2024 – International travel covers the number and characteristics of overseas visitors and New Zealand resident travellers (short-term movements) entering or leaving New Zealand.

    Key facts
    Monthly arrivals – overseas visitors

    Overseas visitor arrivals were 214,300 in August 2024, an increase of 7,500 from August 2023. The biggest changes were in arrivals from:

    • Australia (up 13,800)
    • China (up 3,200)
    • United States (down 6,500).

    The total number of overseas visitor arrivals in August 2024 was 85 percent of the 251,100 in August 2019 (before the COVID-19 pandemic).

    Visit our website to read this information release:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –