NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – “Extermination” in Gaza – Where are you Christopher Luxon? Winston Peters? David Seymour? – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    Thousands will march for Palestine across Aotearoa this weekend as UN investigators accuse Israel of deliberately targeting Gaza’s health facilities and killing medical personnel.

     

    In a landmark human rights ruling on Gaza, the investigators have said Israel is 

     

    “committing war crimes and the crime against humanity of extermination with relentless and deliberate attacks on medical personnel and facilities”

     

    If this were happening anywhere else in the world the government would act decisively.

     

    It’s long past the time to expel the Israeli ambassador… 

     

    But where are our political leaders? 

     

    The dozens of events across the motu for this week are on the PSNA Facebook events page here with the basic details given below.

     

     

    John Minto

    National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    North Island
    Opononi
    Sunday 13 October
    Nothing this weekend – watch this space
     
    Kerikeri – Rally
    Saturday 12 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Whangarei – Rally
    Saturday 12 October
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Auckland – Say Hi to Judith Collins at Dinner
    Thursday 10
    6:30 pm
    Annabelles Restaurant, 409 Tamaki Drive, St Heliers, Auckland
     
    Auckland – Picket 
    Friday 11 October
    No Picket this week
     
    Waiheke – Market Stall – hosted by Stand With Palestine Waiheke!
    Every Saturday
    8:00 am – 1:00 pm
    Ostend Market, Waiheke Island
     
    Auckland – Banners around Tamaki Makaurau
    Saturday 12 October
    10:00 am
     
    Auckland – Rally
    Saturday 12 October
    2:00 pm
    Te Komititanga – Britomart Square, Tamaki Makaurau
     
    Thames – Vigil to Stop the war on Children
    (Hosted by The Basket – Social and Environmental Justice – Hauraki)
    First Saturday of the month
     
    Tauranga – Flag Wave & Mural Painting
    Sunday 13 October
    11:00 am
    Coronation Park, Mouth Manganui
     
    Hamilton – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 12 October
    1:00 pm
    Civic Square, Hamilton
     
    Raglan
    To be advised
     
    Cambridge – Rally for Palestine
    Every Saturday
    11:00 am
    Cambridge Town Hall
     
    Rotorua – Rally for Palestine
    Every Thursday
    4:00 pm
    Rotorua Lakes Council, Haupapa Street (Sir Howard Morrison Corner)
     
    Gisborne – Farmers Market – Vigil to Stop the war on Children
    Every Saturday
    9:30 – 11:30 am
    Gisborne Farmers Market
     
    Whakatāne – Snap Rally for Palestine
    Wed 9 Oct
    12 – 1pm
    49 Kakahoroa Drive (outside the Library)
     
    Napier – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 12 October
    11:30 am
    Marine Parade Soundshell Roundabout
     
    Hastings – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 13 October
    1:00 pm
    Hastings Town Clock – Hastings CBD
     
    Palmerston North – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 13 October
    2:00 pm
    The Square, Palmerston North
     
    New Plymouth – Flags on the Bridge
    Friday 6 September
    4:30 pm
    Paynters Ave Bridge, New Plymouth
     
    New Plymouth – Vigil
    Saturday 12 October
    1:00 PM
    Hatchery Lawn- Pukekura Park, New Plymouth
     
    Whanganui – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 12 October
    11:00 am
    Riverside Market, Whanganui
     
    Carterton – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Tuesday
    12:00 midday
    Memorial Square.
     
    Martinborough – Vigil for Palestine
    Every Wednesday
    11:00 am
    The square at the top of Kitchener St, Martinborough
     
    Masterton – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Sunday
    9:30 am
    Town Hall Lawn, Masterton
     
    Featherston – Gathering for Gaza
    Every Saturday
    11:00 am
    The Squircle (opposite the op shop).
     
    Wellington – Vigil for Palestine (by Aotearoa Healthcare Workers for Palestine)
    Every Friday
    6:00 pm
    In front of Wellington Hospital
    49 Riddiford Street, Newtown, Wellington
     
    Wellington – Flags on the Bridge
    (hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)
    Every Friday
    7:15 – 8:15 am
    Hill Street bridge Overbridge, Wellington
     
    Wellington – Boycott Obela rally
    (hosted by the Falastin Tea Collective)
    Saturday 12 October
    1:00 – 2:00 pm
    Opposite Chaffers New World and next to the Bowlzilla Skatepark
     
    South Island
    Nelson – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 12 October
    10:30 am
    1903 Square, Upper Trafalgar Street, Nelson
     
    Blenheim – Rally for Palestine
    Saturday 12 October
    11:00 am
    Blenheim Railway Station
     
    Christchurch- Flag Waving for Palestine
    Friday 11 October
    4:00 pm
    Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch
     
    Christchurch – Otautahi stands with Lebanon
    Saturday 12 October
    1:00 – 2:00 pm
    Bridge of Remembrance, Cashel Street, Christchurch
     
    Timaru
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Dunedin – Rally and March
    Saturday 12 October
    1:00 pm
    Otago Museum Reserve (marching to the Octagon)
    Queenstown
    No Rally this weekend
     
    Invercargill – Rally for Palestine
    Sunday 13 October
    1:00 pm
    Wachner place Invercargill.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: GAZA: At least 3100 children aged under five killed with others at risk as famine looms – Save the Children

    Source: Save the Children

    At least 3,100 children aged under five have been killed in Gaza with other under-fives at risk from severe malnutrition as the conflict shatters the start of Palestinian children’s lives, Save the Children said.
    About 30% of the 11,300 identified children killed in Gaza between last October and 31 August were younger than five, according to a newly published breakdown of the ages of about 34,000 people whose deaths have been verified by Gaza’s Ministry of Health. Of those about 710 were babies aged under 12 months. Another 2,800 children killed have yet to be identified.
    The occupied Palestinian territory is now ranked as the deadliest place in the world for children, who face constant exposure to violence in Gaza, a lack of access to adequate healthcare and the highest rates of child malnutrition globally, with 83% of required food aid not making it into Gaza according to aid organisations .
    UN experts have warned of famine looming in Gaza with the deaths of several children due to malnutrition and hunger already reported and Save the Children staff working in a primary healthcare centre in Gaza reporting ever increasing cases of child malnutrition.
    Save the Children recently screened nearly 3,000 children under 5, finding that nearly 20% of them were suffering with moderate acute malnutrition and nearly 4% with severe acute malnutrition. Staff have reported seeing children scouring through rubbish and debris to find food.
    Children aged under five and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding are most vulnerable to malnutrition as their bodies have greater need for nutrients. A child with acute malnutrition is 11 times more likely to die from common childhood illnesses, including pneumonia and nearly half of deaths among children under 5 years globally are linked to undernutrition.
    However , difficulties in collecting and verifying data in Gaza due to security challenges, access restrictions, and destruction of infrastructure make it impossible to verify exact numbers at risk or suffering from malnutrition.
    Somayya-, 37, a mother of seven, and her family had to flee northern Gaza last year and now live in a shelter for displaced people in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza. Her youngest child Ali- is so severely malnourished that he has developed osteomalacia or “soft bone disease”, leaving him unable to move or walk. Ali- is now being treated at a Save the Children clinic.
    Somayya- said:
    “My son is one year and a half and is malnourished. His siblings at his age used to walk and were well fed. Now there is no food or anything. Ali- cannot walk or hold onto a chair, he cannot even crawl. He does not eat eggs or meat or milk. Nothing is available.”
    Save the Children warns that the current health crisis in Gaza, with only 17 out of 36 hospitals partially functional threatens to create a generation with both physical and mental injuries, with some children facing lasting impacts of trauma and other with life-changing injuries.
    The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that around 25% of all those injured, or 22,500 people, are likely to have acute and ongoing rehabilitation needs, including patients with extremity injuries, amputations, head and spinal cord injuries and burns.
    Jeremy Stoner, Save the Children’s Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Europe said:
    “The damage caused has shattered the very foundations of life in Gaza and will threaten the future of Palestinian children for generations to come. It is heart-breaking to see such young children robbed of any hope. Life-changing injuries, starvation, a health and education crisis … the cumulative impact of such across-the-board harm is not only putting children’s lives at risk every day, but also their futures.
    “We are doing everything we can to respond to children needs and will keep calling for children’s rights and international law to be respected, for as long as it takes – and for accountability when they are not. There must be an immediate definitive ceasefire. For every day without a ceasefire, it gets harder to help children piece together the shattered shards of their lives. For thousands of children, it’s already too late.”
    Save the Children has been working in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt) since 1953 and has a permanent presence in Gaza where we deliver lifesaving health, nutrition, and protection support. This includes pre-natal and maternal care and treatment for newborns and child malnutrition. We also provide mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS) for children and caregivers. Alongside emergency food supplies, clean water, and hygiene products, we are advocating for immediate, unrestricted humanitarian access to ensure that lifesaving aid reaches children in need. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Whangārei Police deal blow to core group of offenders

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have made further arrests over a recent spate of offending across the Kaipara and Whangārei regions.

    Four recent arrests will see offenders held to account over the majority of recent aggravated robberies and burglaries at various businesses.

    Combined efforts between frontline staff and the Tactical Crime Unit have resulted in dozens of charges being laid, Area Commander Inspector Maria Nordstrom says.

    “Late on Saturday night, frontline staff stopped a vehicle a Te Kamo petrol station forecourt which was sought in connection with an earlier road rage incident in Auckland.

    “The occupants were arrested without further incident and a firearm was located following a search of the vehicle.”

    A 17-year-old in the vehicle was sought in connection with an aggravated robbery at an Otaika dairy in early July.

    He will face the Whangārei Youth Court for that offence, as well as charges for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

    “The Tactical Crime Unit has also charged him over numerous burglaries and theft of motor vehicles across the region between late June and July,” Inspector Nordstrom says.

    This follows an arrest made by local Dargaville staff days earlier of a prolific offender.

    Inspector Nordstrom says the 44-year-old man is allegedly responsible for some 20 offences across the Dargaville and Whangārei areas over the past month.

    “Our staff located a stolen vehicle travelling near Tangowahine, and later arrested the man.

    “He’s since had an initial appearance in the Whangārei District Court on burglary charges where he allegedly targeted clothing, food and jewellery.”

    Police successfully opposed the man’s bail, and he has been held in custody until next appearance on 21 October.

    “Dargaville staff have been working incredibly hard in investigating these offences, and it was a great result for the community that he is remanded in custody.”

    Late last month Police also caught up with a 15-year-old male who had also committed offending alongside another youth, who was arrested in late August.

    Police colleagues in Hutt Valley spoke with the male, and he has since been referred to Youth Aid over a series of aggravated robberies and burglaries.

    “I acknowledge the dedication of our staff working right across this region, who have diligently been piecing together the offences leading to arrests,” Inspector Nordstrom says.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Govt broadly accepts Royal Commission findings

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has broadly accepted the findings of the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care whilst continuing to consider and respond to its recommendations.

    “It is clear the Crown utterly failed thousands of brave New Zealanders. As a society and as the State we should have done better. This Government is determined to do better,” Lead Coordination Minister Erica Stanford says.

    “We broadly accept the findings of the report. Further work is required to respond to those findings that are legal in nature. In the meantime, we are focused on delivering a considered and comprehensive response to the recommendations.”

    The Government is currently working through the 138 recommendations and the 95 recommendations from the 2021 interim report on redress. 

    “Since the tabling of Whanaketia on 24 July, we acknowledged some children and young people experienced torture at the Lake Alice Unit and set up urgent financial assistance to those survivors who are terminally ill.

    “A Crown Response Office has also been established to drive the Government’s ongoing response and the Prime Minister will publicly apologise to abuse in care survivors in Parliament on 12 November,” Ms Stanford says.

    “The abuse perpetuated on survivors for decades is a debt that can never be repaid. I acknowledge the Royal Commission process has spanned six years and survivors would like to see action. The recommendations are complex and it’s important they are considered carefully and respectfully.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police catch up with gang members after driving dangerously

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A group of Tribesman gang members face charges after being observed driving dangerous across south Auckland last night.

    Five arrests were made, infringements issued, and six prized motorbikes have been impounded and are now off the road for six months.

    Earlier on Thursday evening, Police observed a group of gang members speeding on State Highway 1 near Pōkeno at around 6pm.

    “They were driving dangerously at high speeds and intimidating over road users with their reckless behaviour,” Counties Manukau Road Policing Manager, Inspector Tony Wakelin, says.

    “The Police Eagle helicopter was deployed and provided commentary to ground units, as the group exited the motorway at East Tāmaki Road.”

    Inspector Wakelin says Police units had gathered to intercept the group and signalled for the riders to stop.

    “Disappointingly the group disregarded this, and they fled from Police towards Ōtara, travelling at well over twice the legal speed limit and through a red light.”

    Eagle followed the group to an address on Berrett Place, before Police entered the address to conduct further enquiries.

    “We were then able to identify some the motorbikes and the alleged riders involved in the earlier offending.”

    As a result, three patched members aged 24, 28 and 38, have been summoned to appear in the Manukau District Court at a later date for failing to stop and dangerous driving.

    Two youths at the address were arrested over breaching of bail conditions and obstructing Police.

    “Further enquiries are continuing to locate the other motorbikes and riders involved,” Inspector Wakelin says.

    “This was great work from Police staff to manage a potentially volatile situation and bring it to a safe and satisfying conclusion.

    “Other road users should not expect to have their safety put at risk as it was last night. The behaviour of these gang members was completely unacceptable.”

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rural News – Southland Federated Farmers to boycott Fish & Game

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers Southland are calling for local farmers to boycott Fish & Game and remove fishing access across their land.
    “Farmers have always allowed anglers to walk across their land as a gesture of goodwill but, unfortunately, that goodwill has been completely eroded by Southland Fish & Game,” Federated Farmers Southland president Jason Herrick says.
    “We’re fed up with Southland Fish & Game’s persistent, belligerent anti-farming rhetoric and their opposition to everything we do.
    “We’ve tried our best to maintain our relationship with them, but they’ve washed that relationship away down the Mataura River.
    “We’re now calling for local farmers to join us in boycotting fishing licences, and to remove fishing access by taking down access signs.
    “Farmers can replace those signs with an orange ribbon to show their frustration with Fish & Game, and anyone else who wants to show their support could do that by attaching an orange ribbon to their roadside gate as well.
    “I want to be very clear: we’re not asking farmers to destroy access signs, but they can return their signs to Southland Fish and Game if they like.”
    Herrick emphasises that the boycott is in Southland only.
    He says the decision has been sparked by a recent court decision that would require more than 3000 Southland farmers to apply for a resource consent just to continue farming.
    “Southland Fish & Game were one of the main groups pushing for that decision, which is an absolute kick in the guts for farmers down here,” Herrick says.
    “This has come on top of a raft of challenges from Fish & Game, including on gravel management and management of flooding in the Waituna Lagoon area.
    “It’s the last straw and we’re now taking action.
    “Southland Fish & Game are using licence funds against farmers and against all New Zealanders by making land use so difficult.
    “They’ve destroyed the goodwill of farmers – and we’ve had enough.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police acknowledge IPCA findings into serious crash – Christchurch

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police acknowledge the findings by the Independent Police Conduct Authority which found that a Christchurch dog handler was justified in signalling a stolen vehicle to stop moments before it was involved in a serious crash.

    The incident occurred in the early hours of 22 October 2022. Three stolen vehicles were travelling in convoy in the CBD area. The police dog handler was looking for them, travelling slowly along Stanmore Road, when one of the stolen cars drove out of a side street without stopping, colliding with the front of the dog van.

    The stolen car continued at speed and the dog handler immediately activated his lights and sirens to signal the vehicle to stop. However, due to the speed and erratic manner of driving, the handler made the quick decision to deactivate his lights and sirens, slow down and pull to the left.

    The stolen vehicle continued at high speed through a red light at the intersection with Gloucester Street, crashing into a vehicle travelling on a green light.

    One of the passengers of the stolen vehicle sustained serious injuries. Thankfully, the driver of the innocent vehicle did not suffer any injuries, and the driver and two other passengers of the offending vehicle were able to get out of the car and walk to the footpath.

    The entire incident from when the dog handler had his vehicle hit to the stolen vehicle crashing lasted just 24 seconds.

    Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill says the officer made the right call to both signal to the vehicle to stop and to then to try and de-escalate the situation.

    “The dog handler made quick decisions based of the circumstances in front of him, all in a period of 24 seconds. That’s how unpredictable and dangerous these types of events can be.

    “It is unfortunate that the driver of this stolen vehicle showed little regard for anyone else, putting the lives of a member of the public, their own passengers and a police officer at risk,” says Superintendent Hill.

    “This is an example of the fast-moving and dynamic situations our officers are placed in every day, and I want to acknowledge this dog handler for his agile and decisive decision making during this incident.”

    Following the incident Police arrested four people aged between 10 and 15, and through Youth Court and Youth Aid, they each faced varying consequences for their actions.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Fonterra announces changes to Management Team

    Source: Fonterra

    Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today announced changes to its Management Team to support the next phase of its strategic delivery.  

    Managing Director Co-operative Affairs Mike Cronin has been leading the potential Consumer divestment process and will dedicate his focus to this critical project full time.  

    Former Fonterra alumni Matt Bolger will return to the Co-op and step into the Managing Director Co-operative Affairs position from March 2025.  

    CEO Miles Hurrell says “exploring options for the potential divestment of our Consumer businesses is one of the most important projects Fonterra has undertaken and has the potential to unlock significant value for our farmer shareholders and unit holders.  

    “As we progress this work, Mike will step away from the Managing Director Co-operative Affairs role to dedicate his time to the potential divestment. He will remain a key member of the Fonterra Management Team.  

    “Mike has been with Fonterra since 2002 and has been involved in a number of key strategic projects for the Co-op, including Trading Amongst Farmers, the Governance and Representation Review, the Co-operative Difference and Flexible Shareholding.  

    “Mike is a highly respected leader and industry figure, holding the Managing Director Co-operative Affairs role since 2014. I personally value his trusted advice and strategic leadership. He will remain with the Co-op until the potential divestment process is concluded.

    “I’m also pleased to announce Matt Bolger’s appointment to the Managing Director Co-operative Affairs role and look forward to welcoming him back to the Co-op on the 5th of March,” says Mr Hurrell.  

    Matt spent more than 18 years with Fonterra in a variety of roles, including General Manager Capital Strategy and Director of Farmer Services, as well as time leading global sales teams offshore.  

    He stepped into his current position as Pro Vice-Chancellor of The University of Waikato Management School in 2020 and is the current Chairman of the Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ).

    “As Managing Director Co-operative Affairs, Matt will be responsible for functions including Farm Source, Global Stakeholder Affairs and Trade, Governance, Risk and Audit, Corporate Communications, Legal and Māori Strategy.

    “As we implement our revised strategy, Matt’s knowledge of the Co-op’s farmers, stakeholder relations experience and commercial acumen will serve him well,” says Mr Hurrell.  

    Matt completed his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Georgetown University in Washington DC, majoring in International Business with Minors in English and Japanese.  

    About Fonterra 

    Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer,foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – Global day of action against Big Meat and Dairy climate pollution starts with Fonterra – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Dramatic scenes have unfolded outside the offices of Big Meat and Dairy companies around the world overnight as Greenpeace concludes a global day of action against livestock industry climate pollution. The protests kicked off inNew Zealand yesterday morning and continued through the night in Denmark, Sweden, and Germany.
    In Denmark, activists targeted pork and beef producer Danish Crown, while in Sweden, activists targeted Arla, the fifth biggest dairy company in the world. In Germany, activists protested outside the headquarters of Müller – a German dairy corporation. All of the actions featured billowing plumes of pink smoke, symbolising the outsized methane emissions from the global livestock industry.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Sinéad Deighton-O’Flynn says, “We have the chance to pull the climate emergency brake by cutting methane emissions now. If the world reduces cow numbers, we can slow down climate change and prevent the worst climate catastrophes,” says Deighton-O’Flynn.
    “As one of the world’s biggest exporters of dairy products, New Zealand has a huge role to play in this story. That requires us to demand better from our biggest dairy company, Fonterra.”
    Greenpeace Nordics spokesperson Shefali Sharma says, “For so long, we have tiptoed around big meat and dairy companies and their unfettered growth as if they are somehow exempt from making the drastic changes required of everyone else on this planet.
    “It’s always either the farmer or the consumer who has to change, while these companies decide what farmers grow, what they are paid and what we eat. We have shown that the pathway is clear.”
    The day of action coincided with the launch of a Greenpeace report revealing that the methane emissions of 29 meat and dairy corporations are larger than those of the top 100 methane-emitting companies in the fossil fuel sector. The report goes in-depth into a critique of Fonterra’s climate roadmap, showing it to be full of greenwash without any substantial action to reduce methane emissions.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Beware storm damaged tracks in Otago/Southland

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  10 October 2024

    “Visitor safety and risk management is a priority for DOC,” says Southern South Island Director of Operations, Aaron Fleming. “We are currently attending to multiple slips, surface damage and tree falls across a number of tracks, some of which are fully closed while we repair them.

    “Tunnel Beach Short Walk in Dunedin is fully closed due to around 10 large slips covering the width of the track.

    “Despite the carpark being locked and several barriers and signage saying the track is closed, we are alarmed and disappointed by the number of visitors who are choosing to ignore safety advice and walk the track regardless.

    “This is also causing frustration to nearby residents with people choosing to park in the neighbourhood and on private property to walk on the closed track.

    “Tracks are closed for visitor safety. We are asking for people to please respect closures; our team is working hard to get tracks repaired and re-opened as soon as it is safe to do so.

    “Our advice is for people to check the DOC website for the latest alerts for areas they’re heading to, or contact the local DOC Visitor Centre for information, rather than relying on web/map search engines which may not yet be up to date.”

    Coastal Otago information and closures

    • Tunnel Beach Short Walk – Closed. Significant damage with – 10 large slips covering full width of track.
    • Taieri River Track – Closed from Taieri Mouth to John Bull Gully – undermined structures, track damage and full track washout near John Bull Gully
    • Picnic Gully Track – Closed – undermined structures and full washout of track sections.
    • The following Coastal Otago tracks are open but also damaged and may not be suitable for all visitors, use with caution while repairs are undertaken – Sandfly Bay Track, Outram Glen, Huriawa Pā, Orokonui Stream Walking Track, Tomahawk Track, Leith Saddle Walking Track, Bushy Beach Walking Track. McMeekings/Highcliff Track access road – damage to surface, not recommended for low clearance 2wd vehicles.

    Central Otago information and closures

    • Otago Central Rail Trail – damage to surface. Surrounds will continue to be wet for some time. Potential for additional slip movement over the coming weeks.
    • St Bathans Hall – work underway to repair water damage.
    • Danseys Pass Campsite – closed due to damage to the access road.
    • A slip in the Ida Valley will be repaired this week.

    Catlins

    • Jacks Blowhole Track – Closed. Trees are down over track and there is significant scouring of track surface by flood water.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – GP closures regrettable, get ready for more

    Source: GenPro

    Recent closures of general practices and calls for unprofitable GPs to run cafes to stay afloat are more evidence that communities are paying the price from years of government underfunding of primary health care.

    “While the list of reasons for the closures of Hataitai Medical Practice and North Taranaki’s Parklands Medical Centre could differ, we know there are two common themes – that many general practices are financially unsustainable and struggle to recruit and retain staff,” said Dr Angus Chambers, Chair of the General Practice Owners Association (GenPro).

    “These two symptoms are a direct consequence of a 20-year-old funding model which has not kept pace with the costs of running a general practice and the changing health needs in our communities.”

    More than 2000 Wellington patients will have to find a new doctor next year after the 40-year-old Haitaitai practice closes, and not enough clinical staff can be found to keep open the Parklands centre in Bell Block, so it is closing and merging with another practice seven kilometres away.

    “The closures were announced in the same week we learned that a committee established by Health New Zealand-Te Whatu Ora allegedly told a struggling GP practice to set up a café inside the clinic to bring in extra cash.

    “Closures and desperate measures do nothing to improve and treat the health needs of our patients and keep the doors open on clinics providing medical, urgent and mental health care,” Dr Chambers said.

    A recent survey by General Practice New Zealand, which represents the bulk of primary health organisations, found that more than 60 percent of PHOs had clinics in their networks facing closure, 61 percent were reducing services, and all were restricting patient access. Among reasons given were financial pressures and burnout and retention of GPs.

    “GenPro’s own survey in August also showed that financial pressures were weighing on general practices, with 83 percent concerned about their financial viability.

    “Hardly a month goes by without an announcement of a GP clinic shutting its doors, closures of after-hours services, cessation of new patient enrolments, or some other reduction in scope of services. Regretfully, I predict more of these closures and reductions are on the way unless something changes.”

    “The funding model is based on health attendances from the last millennium, which was a vastly different health environment. Our inability to negotiate funding – because it’s imposed by the government – is the key reason that funding is not keeping pace with rising costs, and general practices are therefore closing.

    “GenPro has lodged a complaint with the Commerce Commission about our inability to have effective input into the decisions crucial to achieving the best outcomes for our patients.
     
    “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,” Dr Chambers said.

    “GenPro, which represents half of all general practices in Aotearoa, is ready to work with the Minister and Commissioner to develop the solutions needed,” Dr Chambers said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rural News – Southland Federated Farmers to boycott Fish & Game

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Federated Farmers Southland are calling for local farmers to boycott Fish & Game and remove fishing access across their land.
    “Farmers have always allowed anglers to walk across their land as a gesture of goodwill but, unfortunately, that goodwill has been completely eroded by Southland Fish & Game,” Federated Farmers Southland president Jason Herrick says.
    “We’re fed up with Southland Fish & Game’s persistent, belligerent anti-farming rhetoric and their opposition to everything we do.
    “We’ve tried our best to maintain our relationship with them, but they’ve washed that relationship away down the Mataura River.
    “We’re now calling for local farmers to join us in boycotting fishing licences, and to remove fishing access by taking down access signs.
    “Farmers can replace those signs with an orange ribbon to show their frustration with Fish & Game, and anyone else who wants to show their support could do that by attaching an orange ribbon to their roadside gate as well.
    “I want to be very clear: we’re not asking farmers to destroy access signs, but they can return their signs to Southland Fish and Game if they like.”
    Herrick emphasises that the boycott is in Southland only.
    He says the decision has been sparked by a recent court decision that would require more than 3000 Southland farmers to apply for a resource consent just to continue farming.
    “Southland Fish & Game were one of the main groups pushing for that decision, which is an absolute kick in the guts for farmers down here,” Herrick says.
    “This has come on top of a raft of challenges from Fish & Game, including on gravel management and management of flooding in the Waituna Lagoon area.
    “It’s the last straw and we’re now taking action.
    “Southland Fish & Game are using licence funds against farmers and against all New Zealanders by making land use so difficult.
    “They’ve destroyed the goodwill of farmers – and we’ve had enough.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: United States: Hurricane Milton

    Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

    United States: Hurricane Milton

    Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall in Florida today as a Category 4 hurricane or stronger.  The National Hurricane Centre (NHC) is issuing advice on their website: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/ and additional information is available on the State of Florida’s website: https://www.stateofflorida.com/articles/hurricane-preparedness-guide

    We also advise New Zealanders in the affected areas to follow the advice of local authorities at all times (including any evacuation orders) and seek suitable shelter. Visitors and tourists staying in travel accommodation should follow the guidance of hotel/resort management. It is considered sensible practice not to venture outdoors during a hurricane and remain well away from the sea and rivers. We recommend you stay informed of developments by monitoring local news and weather reports.

    Please also ensure you keep your family and friends in New Zealand informed of your safety and well-being, including after the hurricane has passed.

    New Zealanders in Mexico or the United States requiring emergency assistance should contact the local emergency services by calling 911.

    We encourage all New Zealanders in the United States to register their travel on SafeTravel.

    If you require consular assistance, please contact:

    New Zealand Embassy in Mexico City on: +52 55 5283 9460 or nzmexico@mfat.govt.nz

    New Zealand Embassy in Washington DC on: +1 202 438 4800 or WSHinfo@mfat.govt.nz

    For consular emergencies only after-hours on +64 99 20 20 20.

    Associated Advisories:

    Updated:10 Oct 2024, 10:26

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local alcohol policy: Freeze on new liquor stores happening now

    Source: Auckland Council

    From Monday 16 September, 24 areas including Auckland’s city centre, will be subject to a freeze on the opening of new off-licences as Auckland’s local alcohol policy starts coming into effect. Pubs, bars and clubs will also need to carry out new practices designed to help keep customers safer. 

    The policy was voted for unanimously by councillors at a Governing Body meeting on 29 August this year. Councillor Josephine Bartley, chair of Auckland’s Regulatory and Safety Committee, says limiting the number of liquor stores in our neighbourhoods is something communities have asked for and is a step forward in creating a thriving, healthy and safe Tāmaki Makaurau.

    “When I grew up, my cousins and I could walk up to our neighbourhood shops and at the time, they consisted of a bakery, lawnmower shop, dairy, and a fish and chip shop. Today the same neighbourhood shops consist of a takeaway, dairy and a heavily branded liquor store. Children today are faced with liquor stores in their neighbourhoods and town centres like it’s a normal thing.

    “These communities have been crying out for change – wanting to see better for their neighbourhoods by objecting to new liquor stores opening up. They have said enough is enough!

    “The freeze aims to put a stop to new liquor stores opening in areas where alcohol is having a negative impact on peoples’ health, or there is already a high number of liquor stores in the area.”

    What changes today?

    From Monday 16 September, the District Licensing Committee (DLC) must consider the local alcohol policy when it’s assessing applications to open new off-licence premises, such as liquor stores, bottle shops and supermarkets selling alcohol. The policy recommends that applications to open off-licences in the city centre, as well as 23 other suburbs across Auckland, should be refused. These areas already have a high number of liquor stores and experience higher levels of alcohol-related harm.

    Rob Abbott, Principal Specialist Alcohol Licensing at Auckland Council says that new stores in the 24 areas subject to the freeze would need to meet a very high threshold for the DLC to consider granting a licence.

    “The local alcohol policy says that applications to open new off-licence premises, like bottle shops, in one of the 24 ‘freeze’ areas should be refused due to the high number of existing bottle shops in the area, and as these areas see higher instances of alcohol impacting on peoples’ health and safety. The DLC has to take this into consideration when it’s assessing applications. There would have to be a very, very good reason for a new licence to be granted.”

    ‘New’ off-licences are shops that have not been licensed to sell alcohol within the past six months. Existing stores in the areas can keep trading. This includes when ownership of a store is being transferred to another person, or when the licence comes up for renewal – as long as it continues to meet the required conditions.

    Outside of the 24 areas, applications for new off-licences in neighbourhood centres face a ‘rebuttable presumption’. Rob explains that this means it will also be tougher to open a new off-licence in other areas of Auckland.

    “There are over 400 neighbourhood centres across Auckland – they’re usually areas with rows of shops. The local alcohol policy will also make it more difficult to open a new off-licence in these areas,” he says.

    From September 16, the DLC will also assess applications for new alcohol licences and renewal of existing licences, to decide if they should have special conditions put on them. This will apply to off-licence premises, as well as pubs, bars and clubs, and includes requirements for them to do things like keep an incident register; display information on transport, such as taxis, to help customers get home safely; have CCTV; and train staff to a certain standard. 

    For more information on the local alcohol policy, visit OurAuckland or read the policy on the Auckland Council website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police lay charges over brazen theft at retailer

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have swooped in on offenders allegedly trying to sell clothing stolen from a west Auckland retailer yesterday.

    At around 4.30pm, four masked offenders entered a store in Westgate, stealing jackets from the display racks.

    Waitematā West Area Commander, Inspector Jason Edwards, says the offenders had arrived in a stolen vehicle before entering the shop.

    “The group loaded the stolen items into the car, before fleeing the area,” he says.

    “Some of the clothing they had stolen had been dropped outside the store and was returned by members of the public.”

    No staff inside the store were injured.

    Inspector Edwards says Police arrived in the area, and eventually located the stolen vehicle abandoned in Massey.

    “Thanks to vigilant members of the public, they saw the group getting into another vehicle and contacted Police.”

    Further enquiries led Police to a Massey address last night, with the Police Eagle helicopter witnessing suspicious activity at an address of interest.

    “Our staff approached the address on Woodside Road, and soon carried out a search of the address,” Inspector Edwards says.

    “Two males were located inside the house and were arrested, with the clothing items that had been stolen.”

    Two men aged 20 and 17 are scheduled to appear in the Waitākere District and Youth Courts.

    Inspector Edwards says enquiries are ongoing and further charges cannot be ruled out including for anyone who may have bought any stolen clothing.

    “This offending impacts our retailers, the wider community, and hardworking people who are just doing their job.

    “It is a great outcome to make arrests so quickly over this matter, and Police acknowledge members of the public for quickly reporting suspicious activity.”

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Medicines access continues to increase

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Pharmac David Seymour is pleased to see Pharmac continue to increase availability of medicines for Kiwis with the Government’s largest ever investment in Pharmac. 

    “Pharmac operates independently, but it must work within the budget constraints set by the Government,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “When our Government assumed office, New Zealanders were facing an uncertain future for medicine access. Pharmac had a $1.7 billion funding hole and had no new money to increase access for medicines. 

    “It was a priority for this Government to fix that. We’ve allocated Pharmac its largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, so that it can get on and do its job – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders. 

    “That is now showing tangible results, with new cancer drugs continuing to be made available. This is an early sign of the direction we’re setting for Pharmac – one that prioritises expanding opportunities and access for patients and their families. 

    “Today represents another step forward for cancer patients as the $604 million uplift from the Government continues to facilitate access to new treatments.  

    “From 1 November 2024 an estimated 380 people will benefit from the full funding of Cetuximab for bowel (colorectal) cancer located on the left side of the bowel, which has spread, and does not have certain (RAS or BRAF) gene mutations. Cetuximab will be fully funded at any point in a person’s treatment.  

    “Pharmac also recently, announced funding of pembrolizumab (branded as Keytruda), from 1 October, for another type of bowel cancer. 

    “Cancer chemotherapy medicines, bendamustine and pemetrexed will also be made more accessible, to more people.  

    Pharmac currently fund bendamustine for people with previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) and lymphomas, which are types of blood cancer. They are adjusting the eligibility criteria to include people with relapsed or refractory CLL. 

    “The eligibility criteria for pemetrexed is being adjusted to make it available for any relevant use,” says Mr Seymour. 

    “I’m pleased to see Pharmac’s responsiveness to the voices of patients and their families by expanding access to more medicines for more groups. This decision reflects our commitment to a more adaptable and patient-centered approach. 

    “We want to build a world-class health system, and that requires access to world-class medicines.” 

    Note to editors:  

    • Please find the link to Pharmac’s announcement here: https://pharmac.govt.nz/news-and-resources/news/pharmac-improves-access-to-three-cancer-medicines  
    • Pharmac is an independent Crown entity responsible for deciding which medicines and medical devices are funded in New Zealand. The recent funding uplift from the Government has enabled Pharmac to make these significant changes. Further details about the funding changes will be available on Pharmac’s website and through their communications channels. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Where are the 100,000 families?

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Nicola Willis has once again shown her promises are based on ghost families, with less than half registering for the FamilyBoost payments.

    “FamilyBoost has seen just 39,664 registrations – well short of the 100,000 promised by Nicola Willis at the Budget and last week,” Labour finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds said.

    “It’s clear National wants to make it difficult for anyone to actually get this money by making it a rebate. It’s a bureaucratic nightmare – with busy parents having to find invoices or proof of payment from childcare centres and claim back the money themselves from IRD.

    “It means people must be able to afford the childcare in the first place, making thousands of families ineligible.

    “Halloween has come early for the National Party as Nicola Willis’ ghost families that do not exist strike again.

    “This is just further proof National has overcooked its tax policy.

    “Nicola Willis said for months the average family would get $250 per week then she was forced to reveal it was fewer than 3000.

    “It was disingenuous to promise huge tax relief to families, simply using made up data and not deliver it. To then use ghost families to try to sell the actual tax package is dishonest.

    “National should have made the policy universal rather than a rebate, otherwise it isn’t the relief for families struggling with the cost of living that Nicola Willis claims it is.

    “These FamilyBoost numbers are just another failure for National’s tax plan,” Barbara Edmonds said.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Household spending exceeds income in June 2024 quarter – Stats NZ media and information release: National accounts (income, saving, assets, and liabilities): June 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Household spending exceeds income in June 2024 quarter – 10 October 2024 – New Zealand household saving decreased to -$479 million in the June 2024 quarter as household spending increased while net disposable income fell, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

    Seasonally adjusted household spending increased 1.0 percent to $60 billion in the June 2024 quarter. The increase in household expenditure was driven by spending on services and non-durable goods like groceries, partly offset by a decrease in spending on durable goods like motor vehicles.

    Household net disposable income decreased 0.9 percent to $59 billion in the June 2024 quarter. Total household income decreased 0.2 percent, falling for the first time since the start of the reported series in 2016.

    Household net disposable income is the amount of money a household has once all income such as wages, interest, and child support, and income payable such as taxes have been accounted for. It represents the money available for a household to save, spend, or invest.

    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: New timeline for property revaluation

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council is in the process of delivering its three-yearly property revaluations, ahead of the 2025/2026 rating year.

    Ensuring there is a robust and consistent process for determining the property valuations used to set rates is vital to ensure rates are fairly shared between property owners.   

    The council, alongside our independent property valuers, are committed to ratepayers receiving values that reflect the market as at 1 May 2024 as accurately as possible.

    Auckland Council head of rates, revaluations and data management Rhonwen Heath said there is much rigour around property valuations and this year’s values will now be delivered in the new year.

    “As part of the process, the Valuer-General audits property valuations and has requested some additional work on the Auckland valuations prior to public release,” says Rhonwen.

    “This means that Aucklanders’ property valuations will now be released in early 2025, rather than late 2024.

    “The additional time we will take to get property valuations right will help Aucklanders have confidence that the values used to determine rates from 1 July 2025 have been accurately and consistently calculated.”

    Revaluation does not change the total amount of rates revenue council collects, but helps to distribute rates fairly between ratepayers.

    “The Valuer-General has very high standards, which reflects the importance of this work, and we are committed to meeting those.”

    Auckland Council appreciates the public interest in the valuations and looks forward to releasing them as soon as possible.

    For more information on Revaluation 2024, visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/revaluation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Road closed, SH1, Main South Road, Selwyn

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    State Highway One, Main South Road is closed following a serious crash this morning.

    Police are in attendance of a two-vehicle crash at the intersection of Breadings Road and Main South Road, reported at around 10.50am.

    One person is reported to have serious injuries.

    The road is closed, motorists are advised to follow diversions and expect delays.

    ENDS
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Muriwai stormwater renewals update: 30 October community meeting

    Source: Auckland Council

    Following last year’s severe weather events, Auckland Council’s Healthy Waters has been working to improve stormwater network resilience by renewing the existing network. We have been coordinating with the Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office to investigate stormwater management in two key areas of Muriwai that were impacted: Motutara Road and Domain Crescent.

    Change in scope of the project

    The original scope of the project had two elements:

    1. An embankment (bund) on Domain Crescent

    2. Renewing open roadside drains to increase the stormwater capacity on Motutara Road and Domain Crescent and installing sediment traps to reduce blockages and improve maintenance.

    Further investigations found that the Domain Crescent embankment needed to be bigger than originally planned, resulting in increased costs. This has led to a change in scope for this element of the project. Affected residents have been contacted by our Recovery Office staff.

    Stormwater renewals will go ahead

    The proposed stormwater renewals on Domain Crescent and Motutara Road will still happen. The project is now in the design stage. Construction is expected to begin in 2025.

    Muriwai community update

    We’d like to hear your knowledge about the existing stormwater network and to discuss the proposed stormwater renewals. The Healthy Waters project team including our designers will be available to hear your feedback and respond to your questions.

    Venue: Main Hall, The Surf Club at Muriwai

    Date: Wednesday 30 October 2024

    6pm: Refreshments 6:30pm: Presentation 7pm: Questions and answers

    For more information, please email healthywaters@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release, fatal crash, SH73, Kirwee

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are now in a position to release the names of the two people who died following a crash on West Coast Road, Kirwee on Thursday 3 October 2024.

    They were Anna Brenmuhl, 74 and Francis Brenmuhl, 75 of Kirwee.

    Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with their family at this extremely difficult time.

    The driver of the other vehicle involved in the collision remains in Christchurch Hospital in a stable condition.

    Our investigation into the crash remains ongoing. No charges have been laid at this stage.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drugs and firearm found in vehicle

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have made an arrest after locating a shotgun and cannabis inside a vehicle in Māngere last night.

    Counties Manukau West Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Steve Albrey, says Police carried out a vehicle stop on Greenwood Road just after 10.30pm.

    “Police had sighted the driver using nitrous oxide, before stopping the vehicle,” he says.

    “There was a strong odour of cannabis coming from the vehicle and a further search was carried out.

    “They located over 160 grams of cannabis plant in the boot, as well as a loaded and cut down semi-automatic shotgun and ammunition.”

    The sole occupant was arrested.

    A 21-year-old man is scheduled to appear in the Manukau District Court today charged with possessing an offensive weapon, unlawfully possessing ammunition, possessing cannabis for supply, and breaching the medicines act.

    “We’re very happy to have a dangerous weapon off the street, and a considerable amount of cannabis that was set for sale,” Senior Sergeant Steve Albrey says.

    “This was a good example of proactive Police work that resulted in a safer community.”

    ENDS.

    Tony Wright/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Confirmation of Payee service to improve payment security

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A new confirmation of payments system in the banking sector will make it safer for Kiwis making bank transactions, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly says. 

    “In my open letter to the banks in February, I outlined several of my expectations of the sector, including the introduction of a Confirmation of Payee (CoP) system. I am pleased to see this being implemented and look forward to continued progress in this area.

    “This new system will give Kiwis greater peace of mind by allowing them to confirm that the name of the person they’re paying matches the bank account details before they send any money.

    “The CoP service is a practical step towards making payments more secure, reducing the chances of errors or potential fraud where funds are mistakenly sent to the wrong person.”

    New Zealand’s retail banks will begin a phased rollout of the CoP service from November 2024, with full implementation across all digital banking platforms, including mobile apps, expected by Easter 2025.

    “Banks are working to ensure the service is carefully tested and integrated across different platforms to guarantee a smooth implementation for customers. This phased approach ensures consumers will experience the benefits without any disruptions.

    “CoP is part of a broader effort by government and the banking sector to enhance security and protect New Zealanders from financial crime.”

    Notes to editor: 

    • More information on the Confirmation of Payee service can be found at: getverified.co.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release, water-related death, Southland

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police are now in the position to name the man who died following a water-related incident in Milford Sound, Southland on Tuesday 8 October.

    He was 23-year-old Daymon Bill Nuhaj of Milford Sound.

    Police extend our sympathies to his family and friends during this difficult time.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BNZ to provide Confirmation of Payee to customers in November

    Source: BNZ statements

    BNZ will be one of the first New Zealand banks to provide Confirmation of Payee when it rolls out the service at the end of November.

    “At BNZ we’re continuously looking for new ways to help protect customers from scammers,” says BNZ CEO Dan Huggins.

    “We’re pleased to be able to deliver Confirmation of Payee as quickly as possible after it becomes available in New Zealand, adding it to the suite of tools to help our customers be safer online.”

    BNZ’s other recent anti-scam features include:
    • An ‘online banking lock’ feature in the BNZ banking app which allows customers to disable all internet banking and BNZ mobile app activity and lock access to their accounts if they suspect a scammer has gained access to their online accounts.
    • Additional two-factor authentication (2FA) within internet banking for high-risk actions such as changing personal contact details, creating a new payee, editing an existing payee, or making payments to unsaved payees. This is required regardless of whether a customer has already completed 2FA in their current session.

    Confirmation of Payee will provide BNZ customers with an extra level of assurance when making payments from one bank account to another within New Zealand.

    It will help customers be confident that they are paying who they think they are before the payment is made, which will help reduce payment errors and stop some instances of scams and fraud.

    From next week, BNZ will start contacting customers to let them know Confirmation of Payee is coming, what it is and how it will work.

    “BNZ invests tens of millions of dollars in scam, fraud and anti-money laundering protection each year. As always, we encourage our customers to get in touch with us straight away if they think they may be being scammed,” says Huggins.

    The post BNZ to provide Confirmation of Payee to customers in November appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Mixed weather to mark the end of the school holidays – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Thursday 10 – Monday 14 October – MetService is forecasting a mix of weather for Aotearoa New Zealand to start the weekend, with a wet Sunday set to close out the school holidays for much of the country. The trend of unsettled weather looks to continue into the start of the new week for the North Island and the eastern South Island, while other parts of the South Island can expect a more settled day.

    Thursday and Friday are a tale of two islands. Showers are expected across much of the North Island, some of which may be heavy on Thursday afternoon. Meanwhile, the South Island enjoys clearer skies, apart from the odd shower at the top of the island. Friday brings a chilly start for both islands, with what could be the coldest morning of the month so far. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane says “Many of us may be waking up to a frost.”

    Saturday offers a brief break for those looking to enjoy the final weekend of the school holidays outdoors, with mostly dry weather expected across the country. Western areas of both islands may see a few showers, while the lower South Island may experience some rain as a weak weather system passes through.

    However, this dry spell won’t last long. Rain and showers are expected to sweep across the South Island on Sunday, especially in the east, as chilly southerlies push through. The North Island is also in line for wet weather as the day goes on, something to keep in mind for anyone travelling home at the end of the holidays.

    The wet conditions persist into Monday for the North Island and eastern South Island. Eastern and central parts of the North Island could see particularly heavy rainfall. “As it’s still a few days away and the situation may be changeable, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast for any updates,” Makgabutlane advises.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 10 October 2024 New Kāinga Ora homes in Richmond set to welcome residents Five new state homes in Richmond are ready for whānau to move in.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    Kāinga Ora has purchased the five two-bedroom homes in Richmond, near Nelson, from developer NZ Housing Group now that construction has been completed. They are among 27 new homes Kāinga Ora has delivered in Richmond in the past year.

    Julia Campbell, Regional Director Nelson, Marlborough and West Coast, says people on the Ministry of Social Development housing register who have specifically requested to move to Richmond will soon move into these homes.

    “Now that we’ve purchased the homes, we’ve begun the process of placing people into them. We’re expecting all the homes to be tenanted in the next couple of weeks.”

    Ms Campbell says the homes are in a sought-after location, with shops, schools and other services all nearby. “We’re looking forward to welcoming customers into their new homes, and to supporting them and their whānau as they settle into the area,” she says.

    Construction of the new homes began in April this year. Construction is also continuing on six new two-bedroom homes in Oxford Street in Richmond, which Kāinga Ora has agreed to purchase when they are completed at the end of this year. 

    Page updated: 10 October 2024

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police graduates keeping it in the family

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Families and friends were at Te Rauparaha Arena to watch seventy new police officers graduate from their initial police training  in Porirua today. Twenty three out of the seventy graduates joined police because they had whānau already in police as constables, sergeants, senior sergeants, detectives and even members of the police executive.

    In attendance at the 378 Wing graduation was Hon Hekia Parata, the Wing Patron, The Hon Mark Mitchell – Minister for Police, The Hon Casey Costello – Associate Minister for Police with Acting Commissioner Jevon McSkimming and members of the police executive. 

    Constable Steven Karehana was the recipient of the Commissioner’s Leadership Award. 

    “This is the beginning of our journey in the New Zealand Police, but for all of us graduating, there are many people who have sacrificed and worked hard to allow us to be here, and we are very grateful.  We could not have done it without you. The call to service is one few answer, but it is a selfless sacrifice to put community above self and by graduating today we have all joined a proud and selfless organisation.”

    Top award winner in the wing, Constable Jesse McIntyre was presented with the korowai to wear on parade by Ministers Mitchell and Costello.

    He says, “College is where I became part of the Police family. Both recruits and staff were welcoming and respectful. From day one you could see the passion and drive that everyone had to serve their communities and help people.

    My advice to anyone thinking of joining is keep true to yourself, remember why you joined and what you are striving to achieve.  Look after your mates and don’t be afraid to ask for support, we all need a bit of help sometimes.
    All staff here want you to succeed and achieve your potential, therefore have an open mind, and take on advice. Stay humble and take it one day at a time.”

    Awards:
    Minister’s Award recognising top student: Constable Jesse McIntyre, posted to Canterbury District.  Constable McIntyre also wins the Firearms Award.
    Patron’s Award for second in wing, recognising second top student: Constable Daniel Coonan, posted to Auckland City District.
    Commissioner’s Award for Leadership: Stephen Karehana posted to Central district.
    Driver Training and Road Policing Practice Award: Constable Ethan Comer posted to Bay of Plenty District.
    Physical Training and Defensive Tactics: Constable Marthinus Venter, posted to Tasman District.

    Deployment:
    The new constables will start their first day of duty in their Police districts on Monday, 21 October 2024 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables. Northland 4, Tāmaki Makaurau a total of 22 and broken down as follows: Auckland – 7, Waitematā – 3, Counties Manukau – 12, Waikato – 5, Bay of Plenty – 8, Eastern – 3, Central – 7, Wellington – 10, Tasman – 2, Canterbury – 6, Southern – 3.

    Demographics:

    20.0 percent are female, 80.0 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 57.2 percent of the wing, with Māori 11.5 percent, Pasifika 10.0 percent, Asian 12.9. percent and Other 4.3 percent.

    Wing Patron:  The Honourable Hekia Parata – Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Porou.

    After a career as a senior public servant, Parata was a member of the New Zealand House of Representatives, representing the National Party, from 2008 until 2017. She served as the Minister of Education in the Fifth National Government. Some of her parliamentary roles included Minister for Women’s Affairs, Minister for Ethnic Affairs, Minister of Education and Minister for Pacific Island Affairs.  She retired from politics in 2017, and since then has had several appointments to ministerial inquiries, such as leading the 2023 inquiry into forestry land use after Cyclone Gabrielle.

    Please look out for a Ten One Magazine story that will be published on the Police website with more stories and photos about our recruits tackling work in their first week.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister to co-chair carbon market negotiations at COP29

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Climate Change Minister Simon Watts will chair negotiations on carbon markets at this year’s United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) alongside Singapore’s Minister for Sustainability and Environment, Grace Fu.

    “Climate change is a global challenge, and it’s important for countries to be enabled to work together and support each other in the transition to a low emission, net zero future,” Mr Watts says.

    “To support cooperation and unlock financial investment, Minister Fu and I have been asked to co-chair negotiations that will finalise details for how countries can cooperate on carbon markets under the Paris Agreement. Having credible, high integrity, and transparent carbon markets are good for countries, consumers, and the climate as they encourage direct investment towards reducing emissions.

    “It is an honour to be selected as one of the eight Ministerial representatives from among 195 countries to chair these negotiations. It recognises New Zealand and Singapore’s expertise in carbon markets and emissions pricing mechanisms, and the Government’s work to restore credibility in our domestic carbon market, the Emissions Trading Scheme.”

    The UN Climate Change system drives global action to reduce the impacts of climate change through the implementation of the Paris Agreement. These meetings also allow businesses and civil society to engage on climate solutions and navigating the economic transition.

    COP29 will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan from 11-22 November 2024. Ministers Watts and Fu will engage with their counterparts in preparation for the meeting to ensure smooth negotiations.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –