NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: National bent the rules to keep coalition commitment

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The National Government bent all sorts of rules to give $24 million to Gumboot Friday just to fulfil a coalition agreement.

    “The Auditor General’s damning findings today make it crystal clear that coalition agreements alone cannot be used to justify government expenditure,” Labour mental health spokesperson Ingrid Leary said.

    “The findings say the procurement process was “unusual and inconsistent” with the principles used to procure government services.

    “The Government talks a big game about spending public money wisely yet used a loophole to get Gumboot Friday funding across the line without a fair and transparent process.

    “They did this because they had already decided before coming into government that Gumboot Friday was an organisation they wanted to fund.

    “It’s outrageous that the loophole was used to “retrospectively justify an outcome that had already been decided” which flies in the face of goo procurement.

    “By pre-cooking the outcome National forced officials to use a legal loophole they know was never intended for this type of procurement.

    “Ministers must stop from riding roughshod over procurement rules to maintain public trust and confidence and NZ’s reputation for public sector integrity.

    “Meanwhile other mental health community groups locked out of government funding are struggling to provide critical services to their communities, and several have already closed,” Ingrid Leary said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: OCR decision a welcome relief for working people

    Source: Council of Trade Unions – CTU

    NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi Economist Craig Renney said the decision by the Reserve Bank to cut the official cash rate by 50 basis points (0.5%) to 4.75% will be a welcome relief to workers facing higher unemployment and a struggling economy. “The Reserve Bank has been forced into a significant cut because the economy has failed to fire. Weak consumer spending, weak business investment, weak house prices, and a weakening labour market all put our economic recovery at risk.”

    “The Government is expecting the Reserve Bank to do all the work and support economic growth. Rather than supporting the economy and working people through difficult times, this Government has chosen to cut spending and investment, and is happy to see unemployment rise to levels not seen for a long time. These are choices, and the Government could invest now to deliver the growth we need for the future. Simply cutting interest rates returns to the economy of the past – and all the problems it already had”.

    “While many people will welcome lower interest rates, and some retailers will welcome the potential for additional spending, the rate cut is not a sign of strength in the economy but is a recognition of its weakness. We need to build a better economy,  one with good work and higher incomes. Nothing in the government’s plan for cuts delivers that.” Renney said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Submissions open for Te Tapatoru ā Toi Conservation Management Plan Final Draft

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  09 October 2024

    Te Tapatoru ā Toi Joint Management Committee Chair Vince Copeland says the plan has been under development by Te Tapatoru ā Toi (TTāT), with the support of DOC, to put taiao at the centre of all decision making for the reserves – Moutohorā/Whale Island Wildlife Management Reserve, Ōhope Scenic Reserve and Tauwhare Pā Scenic Reserve – known collectively as Te Tāpui Tokotoru.

    “The Committee worked closely with hapū, technical experts and stakeholders to develop a plan of how we expect to care for, protect, and relate to Te Tāpui Tokotoru over the next 10 years.”

    TTāT was established through the Ngāti Awa Settlement Act in 2005 and has representatives from Ngāti Awa, the community, and the Bay of Plenty Conservation Board.

    The floor is now open for the community to have their say on whether the plan meets the needs and interests of all who enjoy Te Tāpui Tokotoru (the three reserves).

    “We invite you to share your feedback with us, and to be part of bringing the vision to life over the next 10 years,” says Vince.

    Submissions will be open from 9 October to 1 December, with public hearings on 15/16 November at Te Whare o Toroa Marae.

    The draft plan can be viewed on the DOC website copies can be viewed at DOC Whakatāne or Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa reception.

    Submissions may be emailed to ttat@doc.govt.nz, or posted to 9 Louvain Street, Whakatāne, 3120.

    Background information

    The Te Tapatoru ā Toi Conservation Management Plan (TTāT CMP or CMP), is a statutory planning document describing how public conservation lands and waters will be cared for, protected and managed into the future.

    The CMP sets the strategic direction for the management of Moutohorā (Whale Island) Wildlife Management Reserve, Ōhope Scenic Reserve, and Tauwhare Pā Scenic Reserve, known collectively as Te Tāpui Tokotoru.

    The name Tapatoru-ā-Toi symbolises the connection between, and the shared responsibility to care for, these treasured reserves. The name draws upon the symbolism of the triangle (tapatoru) to:

    • bring together the three reserves, Moutohorā (Whale Island) Wildlife Management Reserve, Ōhope Scenic Reserve and Tauwhare Pā Scenic Reserve
    • reference the relationship between the three groupings of Ngāti Awa, Department of Conservation, and the community
    • recognise the three articles of Te Tīriti o Waitangi as the founding document of Aotearoa.

    Toi-te-huatahi is the esteemed ancestor of Ngāti Awa who dwelled within the bounds of the land and sea of these three significant places.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: West Coast summer highway maintenance: chocks away

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Expect to see more road crews and traffic managers out and about repairing and re-sealing highways and keeping everyone safe around the West Coast and Buller  from now into the New Year, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    Please give them a friendly wave, says NZTA.

    “Most road maintenance can only happen over the summer months, as the increased daylight hours, warmer temperatures and dry air are needed for the chip seal surfacing to stick to the pavements below,” says Moira Whinham, Maintenance Contract Manager for NZTA on the West Coast.

    ”Our crews – contractors and sub-contractors – have a tight schedule, working through extremely variable conditions over the summer. We all appreciate people building in extra time to reduce stress when the highways are getting busy, often with people unfamiliar with the local road layouts.”

    On the West Coast there are two major rehabilitation sites this summer maintenance season:

    • SH73 at Jacksons, east of Kumara, from Monday, 14 October through to late November. Working hours are 7.30am to 6pm Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holidays and weather dependent). 
    • SH6 at Fergusons Bush, south of Ross (south of Hokitika), starting after Christmas in the New Year. 

    There will be single lane and Stop/Go traffic management at both these sites, with minor delays, depending on the activity on the day. 

    Keep up to date with actual delays on the NZTA Journey Planner:

    https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/highway-conditions(external link)

    All work is funded through the State Highway Maintenance and Pothole Prevention activity classes in the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP).

    What else is happening to keep West Coast highways smooth?

    The West Coast reseal programme for summer 2024/25 includes 131 lane kilometres between Mohikinui north of Westport to the Haast Pass in the south and all places in between, between now and the end of March 2025. Expect up to 20-minute delays if you strike a crew busy at work.

    “Maintenance crews also will be out in force completing other pavement repairs throughout the network,” says Miss Whinham.

    Asphalting to come in Greymouth

    “We also have asphalt work planned on Tainui and High Streets in Greymouth, and further details of this will be provided closer to the time. 

    “Thanks for your patience and supporting our crews while this work is done. 

    “And if you have any concerns with the work being carried out, contact NZTA 0800 4 HIGHWAYS – 0800 44 44 49.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland’s cultural institutions collaborate to deliver improvements

    Source: Auckland Council

    A significant milestone has been reached as Auckland’s major cultural organisations join forces to tackle long–standing challenges and enhance collaboration. 

    The Auckland War Memorial Museum, MOTAT, and Stardome, each operate independently under different outdated laws. These individual arrangements have not encouraged collaboration within the sector or enabled Auckland Council to specify and monitor outcomes to make the most of available funding. 

    Deputy Mayor, Councillor Desley Simpson, who has led a political working group to come up with this solution, says agreement has now been reached on how to address these concerns.   

    “For years, the council has acknowledged our cultural institutions were set up to work separately and we invested significantly on reports and reviews to try and fix that,” Cr Simpson says. 

    “Now, after a lot of time, effort, debate and discussion, we have delivered a way forward. Most importantly, we’ve found an approach that is supported by our wonderful cultural institutions themselves who have been an integral part of this journey.”

    The working group’s two-stage solution will address issues identified in external reviews dating back to 2015. Previous discussions have not led to tangible changes to address these, until now.  

    Phase one will focus on achieving better outcomes through collaboration, and a newly formed alliance will play a key role in this effort. The new alliance will bring together the Auckland War Memorial Museum, MOTAT, Stardome, and Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, which owns and operates Auckland Art Gallery, the Maritime Museum and Auckland Zoo, to leverage shared resources and talent. This collaboration will lead to more efficient promotion and programming, coordinated advertising and marketing, and the ability to tell a culturally cohesive Auckland story. 

    Phase two will involve updating outdated laws to better support this collaboration and enhance outcomes relative to the council’s funding. 

    Cr Simpson says she’s pleased that all her fellow councillors have chosen to support a more sustainable and effective path forward for each of these key cultural institutions that are unique, valued and much loved.  

    The council’s Governing Body unanimously agreed to progress the recommendations at its meeting on 26 September 2024.  

    Read more about the recommendations here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Site clearance work to begin alongside SH2, near Kennedy Road off-ramp, Hawke’s Bay

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Works begin next week alongside State Highway 2 (SH2), south of Taradale Road roundabout, to remove vegetation and prepare the site for further works.

    Contractors will set up on the section of land adjacent to the Kennedy Road off-ramp in Napier from Monday 14 October, with these works expected to take a few weeks.

    “SH2 is an incredibly important connection for the region – the spine connecting Napier to Hastings and beyond. This section of SH2 between the roundabouts at Taradale Road and Pākowhai/Links Road, where the vegetation will be cleared away, is the most congested section during peak traffic,” says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager of Infrastructure Delivery, Rob Partridge.

    “When we do this work we’ll also put environmental controls in place by way of silt fences to ensure debris doesn’t enter Purimu Stream once the vegetation cover is removed.

    “NZTA will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption and work as quickly as possible. We thank road users and residents nearby in advance for their patience and understanding as this important site clearance work is carried out,” says Mr Partridge.

    Traffic impacts

    As a result of the work, from 14 October, the right-hand turning lane into Kennedy Road from the northbound offramp will be closed.

    NZTA encourages road users to instead drive to the Taradale Road roundabout and exit the highway there. The detour route will be clearly sign posted.

    People still wishing to exit onto Kennedy Road will need to turn left onto Kennedy Road towards Greenmeadows and then right at the roundabout onto Taradale Road.

    Road users are also advised of a lower 50km/h temporary speed limit in place on this stretch of the highway, while the work is carried out.

    Traffic will also be held (where traffic is temporarily stopped) for short periods at a time during this work.

    A section of the shared-user path adjacent to the northbound lane of the highway will be closed for the duration of this work. Alternative pathways on Konini Crescent and Downing Avenue will be available.

    Detours will be in place for the duration of this work (expected to be a few weeks) and may be in place for up to 3-4 months if further works are approved.

    Section of highway where the clearance work will be undertaken.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Bill restoring Samoan Citizenship progresses

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Labour is pleased the Samoan Citizenship Bill has unanimous support as it enters second reading.

    The Bill would provide the right to New Zealand citizenship to people who were born in Samoa on or after 13 May 1924 and before 1 January 1949, and whose citizenship was removed by the 1982 Act.

    “This is about righting a historic wrong for those born in Samoa who had their citizenship revoked under the 1982 Act, when they were rightly entitled to it,” Pacific Peoples spokesperson Carmel Sepuloni said.

    “I want to firstly thank the tens of thousands who made submissions, marched in the streets, and shared their stories with the committee. Your voices helped shape this Bill.

    “I also acknowledge our Cook Island colleague Teanau Tuiono for putting this member’s bill in the ballot.

    “This shows the importance of having Pacific representation across political parties and the way issues pertaining to our communities can be prioritised. We may be Pacific MPs from different parties, but on issues like this, we work together for the good of our people.

    “Labour has supported this Bill from the start and will continue to fully support it.

    “We know how much this means to our Samoan aiga and we’re certainly standing with them – it is the right thing to do and honours the spirit of the Government’s formal Dawn Raids apology,” Carmel Sepuloni said.

    “During the select committee process, we also heard from the community that they want Samoa-New Zealand visas to be reviewed. We would be supportive of the Government exploring these settings,” Labour Pacific Caucus Chair Jenny Salesa said.

    “I know our Pacific Labour MPs have been consistently engaging with their local Samoan communities. We’ve attended numerous public hearings where our communities’ confronting stories were heard and pleas for justice were made.

    “Labour has heard the call and encourages our Samoan and wider-Pacific whānau to stay engaged on this issue as it enters the House for second reading,” Jenny Salesa said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Universities – Do investors trust AI for stock market predictions? – UoA

    Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

    Despite the growing sophistication of artificial intelligence, investors prefer human expertise when it comes to stock market predictions, according to a new study. 

    The study, which involved 3,600 US participants, examined responses to S&P 500 stock predictions made by human analysts, AI systems and a combination of both.
    Researchers Dr Gertjan Verdickt (University of Auckland) and Francesco Stradi (KU Leuven), say the findings challenge the assumption that AI’s data-crunching prowess might automatically earn investor trust. 
    “We found that investors are more likely to believe human analysts first, followed by a combination of both human and AI,” says Verdickt, a finance lecturer at the University of Auckland Business School. 
    “AI-generated predictions are viewed with the most scepticism.”
    He says this result was somewhat surprising in light of recent developments in AI technology.
    “Previous studies have shown that AI can outperform human analysts, but it’s apparent that trust is a major issue.”
    The results also showed notable differences between genders, with women showing more openness to AI-driven advice than men. 
    “Men tend to be overconfident in their financial abilities, which may explain why they are more sceptical of AI,” says Verdickt.
    “Also, we have seen in other studies that women, on average, get different and often worse advice from financial advisers, such as recommendations for products with higher fees and less risk.” 
    The findings also show that investors with a deeper understanding of AI are more likely to trust its predictions. 
     
    Meanwhile, people who gave their political affiliation as Democrat, were more likely to trust AI-generated forecasts than Republicans.
    To explore whether using more familiar AI tools could boost trust, the researchers also tested whether investors would view the well-known large language model ChatGPT more favourably.  
    “Contrary to recent research suggesting familiarity enhances trust in technology, our results indicate that replacing ‘AI’ with ‘ChatGPT’ does not improve investor trust. In fact, we find that investors distrust ChatGPT-generated advice, perhaps even more than the generic ‘AI model’ we reference in our study.” 
    Verdickt says the findings show that technical effectiveness alone can’t gain investor trust.  
    “We are the first to study investors’ reactions to AI forecasts from a perspective of credibility and beliefs. Our findings show that financial institutions should approach AI integration cautiously and consider tailored communication strategies for different demographics.”  

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Significant step forward for Pasifika justice in Aotearoa

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party has welcomed news that MP Teanau Tuiono’s Member’s Bill has moved forward with unanimous support from the select committee. 

    “This is a significant step forward and a monumental milestone for Pasifika justice in Aotearoa,” says the Green Party’s spokesperson for Pacific Peoples, Teanau Tuiono.

    “Today, Parliament’s Governance and Administration Select Committee reported my Restoring Citizenship Removed By Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982 Bill to the House for its second reading. 

    “Committee members were unanimous in supporting the primary intent of my Bill to restore citizenship to Samoans who had it taken from them by the New Zealand Government in 1982. 

    “This endorsement from the select committee is an encouraging sign for the journey that lies ahead in securing justice for our aiga Samoa. I want to acknowledge the community who came to the select committee to share their stories in both powerful and compelling ways.

    “My Member’s Bill will restore the right to citizenship for people from Western Samoa who were born between 1924 and 1949, fixing a cruel and targeted law rushed through by the Government in 1982 to deny New Zealand citizenship to Samoans. 

    “Earlier that year, the Privy Council found that because those born in Western Samoa were treated by New Zealand law as ‘natural-born British subjects’, they were entitled to New Zealand citizenship when it was first created in 1948. But that right was then taken away from them.

    “For those people still alive today who were New Zealand citizens and had this right shamefully removed at the whim of a Government forty-two years ago, this is another big step towards justice.

    “I’d like to thank members of the select committee for their consideration of my Bill and submitters for their contributions to this important discussion. We can make history by ushering this Bill into law,” says Teanau Tuiono.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council

    Source: Press Release Service – Press Release/Statement:

    Headline: Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council

    Blackhawk, a leader in IoT and real-time digital transformation for remote and mobile assets, has signed a contract with Far North District Council (FNDC) to supply vehicle telematics systems, as well as a pool booking software solution, aiming to streamline FNDC’s fleet management across its range of vehicles.

    The post Blackhawk Deal with Far North District Council first appeared on PR.co.nz.

    – –

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – OCR Drop Welcomed by Canterbury Businesses

    Source: Business Canterbury

    Canterbury businesses will welcome today’s further drop in the OCR following the Reserve Bank’s announcement to cut the OCR by 50 basis points to 4.75%. 
    Business Canterbury Chief Executive Leeann Watson says, “today’s further drop will provide a further boost to business confidence at a time when businesses continue to face increased financial pressure. We hope today’s announcement will continue to increase consumer confidence and demand, which have been at an all-time low.”
    “Since February 2023, when inflation and interest rates outpaced labour market constraints, cost pressures have consistently taken the number one spot in business concerns, according to Business Canterbury’s quarterly survey of over 450 businesses in Canterbury.”
    “Following the previous OCR announcement in August, we saw quite a significant improvement in expectations for both the Canterbury economy and individual business performance, a big turnaround from what we saw in the results from May.”
    “This optimism indicates that recent drops in inflation and interest rates are positively influencing the business operating environment, even as many companies continue to navigate the challenges of what has felt like an elastic band economy over the past few years.”
    “We hope to see further improvement in consumer confidence which saw a lift in September, although still net pessimistic, with spending remaining subdued in many areas. Over the three months to August, retail spending in Canterbury declined by just over 1% from the same time last year, a reduction of about $26 million, which businesses continue to be concerned about. We hope today’s further reduction will see further improvements in consumer confidence to help boost sales for businesses, off the back of an extremely challenging period.”
    “Today’s announcement is another positive step in encouraging an environment that supports economic activity, enabling businesses to concentrate on productivity, innovation, and growth.”
    “Canterbury businesses have shown incredible resilience over the past four to five years, and I’m confident that they will continue to thrive as we move toward a more optimistic economic future.” 
    About Business Canterbury
    Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the largest business support agency in the South Island and advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Housing and Finance – OCR down again as mortgage rates set to keep falling – CoreLogic

    Source: CoreLogic – Commentary from Kelvin Davidson, CoreLogic NZ Chief Property Economist

    Leading up to today’s official cash rate decision, there were equally strong cases for either a 0.25% or 0.50% cut, with the Reserve Bank ultimately opting for the latter. 

    This seems to reflect a new focus on the ‘real time’ economic indicators (such as falling employment) and the potentially growing risk that weak activity causes inflation to undershoot the 1-3% target before too long, rather than staying stubbornly above it.

    Given this was an ‘interim’ Monetary Policy Review (as opposed to the full Monetary Policy Statement), the commentary attached to the decision was always likely to be fairly brief and that proved to be the case. 
    There’s a sense in the Reserve Bank’s commentary that they feel a need to act fairly quickly to get monetary policy back towards a more neutral setting (or even stimulatory), rather than the restrictive territory it’s been in for quite some time now.
    Overall, the OCR is now clearly on a steady downward path.
    In terms of the housing market impacts, the key point is that mortgage interest rates are likely to continue to drop too. This could easily produce a short-term lift in confidence and a more active housing market as we hit the normal Spring uplift anyway.
    However, although house prices may well stop falling in the near future, there are also plenty of reasons why they are unlikely to surge upwards either. For a start, housing affordability remains stretched, and elevated listings are certainly putting finance-approved buyers in a strong position when it comes to price negotiations.
    But perhaps the most important restraint right now is the labour market. Job losses themselves will tend to limit house sales and prices. 
    But there’s also the knock-on effect on sentiment even for those people who keep their jobs but don’t feel as secure in their role as they did before. In addition, flatter wages will also tend to subdue the housing market.
    Looking ahead, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see limited growth in house prices in 2025, as mortgage rates drop. 
    But keep in mind that lower rates will simply bring forward the timing for the debt-to-income restrictions to start biting; another reason to be cautious about the speed and duration of the next housing cycle.
    Indeed, the DTIs are effectively an ‘insurance policy’ for the Reserve Bank in this cycle. Previously, they might have been wary of cutting too soon, at the risk of driving house prices up. But now DTIs will act to curb that growth.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: BNZ launches new anti-scam tool to lock scammers out of online banking

    Source: BNZ statements

    BNZ is rolling out its latest anti-scam and fraud measure, launching an ‘online banking lock’ feature which gives customers the ability to disable all online banking activity and lock access to their online banking if they suspect a scammer has gained access to their accounts.

    “BNZ is continually looking for new ways to enhance protection for customers and combat criminal scammers,” says BNZ’s Head of Financial Crime Ashley Kai Fong.

    “While anyone who thinks they’re being scammed should call their bank straight away, this new tool – available in the BNZ app – gives customers the ability to lock their online banking while they’re making the call, potentially speeding up the process to lock their accounts and shut scammers out,” says Kai Fong.

    Once the online account lock is activated, it disables all current internet banking and BNZ mobile account activity and locks all access.

    To prevent scammers from regaining access, customers will need to verify their identity at a BNZ branch to regain access to their accounts.

    Customers will still be able to use their cards online, instore and at ATMs while their account is locked, unless they have also chosen to block their card. To minimise disruption, scheduled payments, like rent or mortgage payments, will still go out as scheduled.

    Kai Fong says BNZ invests tens of millions of dollars every year in scam and fraud protection measures.

    “While there is no silver bullet in the fight against scammers, this is another tool in the anti-scam and fraud toolbox to help protect our customers. It’s just one of a number of new features, BNZ has introduced, including:

    • introducing a way for customers to verify their identity through the BNZ app when prompted by a BNZ staff member to confirm it is the bank calling
    • introducing 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.
    • deploying ID readers in branch to help identify fraudulent documents

    Kai Fong says customers also have a role to play in keeping themselves safe from scams and fraud:

    • keeping account details, passwords and pin numbers safe
    • never clicking on links or attachments sent by someone you don’t know or that seem out of character for someone you do know
    • keeping your computer and phone security software up to date
    • contacting your bank as soon as possible if you think you’ve been scammed

    Top tips to stay scam savvy – BNZ will never:

    • email or text you links to online banking and ask you to log in
    • send you a text message with a link to a website, or link to call us
    • ask you for information about your PIN number, bank account number, or password
    • ask you to verbally share the authentication codes sent to you by text or email, even with a BNZ staff member
    • ask you to transfer money to help catch a scammer or a bank employee who is scamming customers
    • send you a text message about account issues with a link to log in
    • ask you to download software to access your Internet Banking remotely
    • use international phone numbers to call or send you notifications.

    The post BNZ launches new anti-scam tool to lock scammers out of online banking appeared first on BNZ Debrief.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Steely joint operation lands half a tonne of methamphetamine

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A joint Customs and Police operation has swooped on New Zealand’s second largest importation of methamphetamine, concealed in steel beams.

    Both agencies descended on a rural Waikato property in darkness early on Friday morning, with two men visiting from Australia being arrested in the process of deconstructing the beams.

    Customs earlier located the concealment of 515 kilograms of methamphetamine within the hefty steel beams in early September, after being sent from the United States.

    Customs’ intelligence gathering and associated targeting prompted further investigation of the shipment, which uncovered inconsistencies in some of the 42 steel beams.

    Customs’ Sea Cargo Inspections Facility officers x-rayed selected items in the consignment and conducted other additional examinations which led to the discovery of the large amount of methamphetamine.

    Under Operation Girder, Police’s National Organised Crime Group (NOCG) have worked alongside Customs to identify the group responsible, with warrants being executed across Auckland and the Waikato over recent days.

    All up five men, aged between 31 and 51, have been arrested. All initially appeared in the Auckland District Court on Friday, facing charges relating to the importation and supply of methamphetamine.

    One of these men has been charged with unlawful possession of firearms after a military-style semi-automatic rifle and ammunition were recovered.

    The two men arrested in the Waikato on 4 October are New Zealand passport holders but reside in Australia.

    Detective Inspector Colin Parmenter, from the National Organised Crime Group, says the seizure is a significant disruption to the wider drug market operating within New Zealand.

    “The significant amount seized in this operation is another demonstration of the Police and Customs partnership and commitment to the disruption and dismantling of transnational organised drug networks.

    “It’s estimated that this shipment would have gone on to produce 25.7 million individual doses of this destructive drug, and preventing this harm is a key motivation for our staff.

    “The organised criminal groups looking to profit from this type of offending will continue to be a key focus of our attention and resources.

    This seizure is yet another example of the work being carried out to make New Zealand more resilient to transnational organised crime, Detective Inspector Parmenter says.

    Investigations will continue and further arrests cannot be ruled out.

    Customs says the operation shows law enforcement in New Zealand continues to successfully combat transnational organised crime.

    “Customs’ intelligence gathering and targeting have played a critical role in detecting this smuggling attempt and identifying people responsible,” Customs’ Group Manager Intelligence, Investigations and Enforcement, Terry Brown, says.

    “This joint operation has yielded intelligence that will lead to further enforcement opportunities for Customs and Police and has prevented more than $570 million in harm to New Zealand communities and our economy.

    “The method and scale of this smuggling operation clearly illustrate the amount of efforts organised crime groups are willing to go to but our seizure and the arrests Police have made equally show the skill and determination investigations and enforcement teams will apply to detect, disrupt and dismantle these criminal efforts,” Mr Brown says.

    Anyone with suspicions about possible smuggling should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or Customs confidentially on 0800 WE PROTECT (0800 937 768).

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Water-related death, Southland

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    A man has has died following a water-related incident yesterday in the Milford Sound, Southland.

    Emergency services were alerted to two people in need of assistance in the water at around 12.50pm.

    Another person received minor injuries.

    Our thoughts are with the man’s family during this difficult time.

    The death will be referred to the Coroner.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest made following residential burglaries

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Canterbury Police have arrested a man after a series of residential burglaries over the past few months, predominantly in Christchurch’s hill suburbs.

    Between July and October, Police received several reports of burglary that Police believed to be linked to the same offender.

    In each case, the burglaries took place in homes that were temporarily unoccupied, often while the occupants were on holiday.

    The 39-year-old man currently faces five charges of burglary and enquiries are ongoing to establish his links to additional offences.

    This serves as a timely reminder to anyone leaving their property unattended for a period of time to take steps to make sure it’s secure.

    Burglars are largely opportunistic.

    Alarms will help discourage any burglar looking for easy entry. Locks on windows and doors can be effective, as well as security signage, CCTV, alarms and sensor lights.

    Be wary of posting too much information on social media about holiday or travel plans, or photos of inside your home, as this can make your property a vulnerable target while you’re away.

    Keep in contact with your neighbours, and let each other know if you notice anything unusual.

    Call Police straight away on 111 if you see or suspect anything suspicious at your home or a neighbour’s.

    When reporting activity it’s helpful to take note of the number of people, clothing they wear, and any vehicles present.

    You can make a report after the fact using our 105 service, either by phone or online.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Further temporary closure of Waimārama (Hawke’s Bay) for the taking of blackfoot pāua

    Source: Ministry for Primary Industries

    Have your say

    Ngāi Hapū o Waimārama has requested a further 2-year temporary closure to the taking of blackfoot pāua, at Waimārama, Hawke’s Bay.

    Fisheries New Zealand invites written submissions in response to this request from anyone who has an interest in blackfoot pāua or in the effects of fishing in the area concerned.

    Section 186A of the Fisheries Act 1996 allows the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries to temporarily close an area, or temporarily restrict or prohibit the use of any fishing method in an area.

    Find out more about temporary closures

    Closure request form

    Request for temporary fishing closure of Waimārama, Hawke’s Bay  [PDF, 704 KB]

    Area boundary of the proposed closure

    The proposed area covers approximately 85 square kilometres and extends along 24 kilometres of coastline from Whakapau Point to Huarau.

    Map of the proposed closure area Waimārama, Hawke’s Bay [PDF, 4.2 MB]

    Making your submission

    The closing date for submissions is 5pm on Monday 11 November 2024.

    Email your submission to FMSubmissions@mpi.govt.nz

    While we prefer email, you can post your submission to:

    Spatial Allocations
    Fisheries Management
    Fisheries New Zealand
    PO Box 2526
    Wellington 6140.

    Public notice

    A public notice about the call for submissions is scheduled to appear in the ‘Hawke’s Bay Today’ on Wednesday 9 October 2024.

    Submissions are public information

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

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

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

    Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Plunket to help increase childhood vaccination rates

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello have announced a pilot to increase childhood immunisations, by training the Whānau Āwhina Plunket workforce as vaccinators in locations where vaccine coverage is particularly low. 

    The Government is investing up to $1 million for Health New Zealand to partner with Whānau Āwhina Plunket to train its workforce and establish immunisation services at up to 27 sites across the country. 

    Dr Reti says this is an important step in reducing the barriers to getting children immunised, helping to achieve the Government’s target of 95 per cent of children being fully vaccinated at 24 months. 

    “A key part of our plan to increase childhood immunisations is expanding the workforce able to deliver vaccinations, including midwives and pharmacies, so people can access vaccinations wherever they go to get healthcare,” Dr Reti says. 

    “With existing clinical infrastructure and professional networks, Whānau Āwhina Plunket is perfectly placed to put this funding to use and start vaccinating children very soon. For example Whangārei, the first site, expects to be able to deliver childhood immunisations by the end of 2024.”

    Ms Costello, in her capacity as Associate Health Minister for maternity health, says Whānau Āwhina Plunket nurses are specialist health professionals who play an essential part in supporting women and families in the first days and weeks of a new baby’s life. 

    “Plunket is already supporting whānau to make informed decisions around immunisation, alongside the other services they provide to parents and families around the birth of their child,” says Ms Costello. 

    “The pilot will allow for Plunket to deliver vaccinations alongside in-clinic Well Child visits, at dedicated immunisation clinics, at community events and eventually in homes.

    “It’s natural step for Plunket to work alongside colleagues and partners, including Hauora Māori partners, Pacific providers, general practice and pharmacists to make it easy for parents to get their children vaccinated.”

    This initiative to boost the vaccination workforce is in addition to the $50 million investment over two years for Hauora Māori providers to deliver additional vaccinations, and thereby lift immunisation rates. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Burglary attempt falls flat

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Going low wasn’t enough for one offender playing hide and seek with Police in Flat Bush this morning.

    Instead, the man will find himself before the Court after allegedly attempting to gain access to shops and parked vehicles.

    Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Rakana Cook, says a vigilant store owner detected suspicious activity at around 2.25am.

    “He reported to Police a man was loitering at the back of the shops on Thomas Road,” he says.

    “The male offender was trying to open several car doors as well as shop doors in the block.”

    Police units were on the scene within minutes of the call.

    “On arrival, Police searched the area and found the offender trying to hide underneath a parked vehicle, but instead he was brought out and put in handcuffs,” Inspector Cook says.

    The 25-year-old man has been charged with burglary and will appear in the Manukau District Court next week.

    This morning’s arrest comes as Counties Manukau East have been rolling out Operation Flat Bush over recent weeks.

    In a bid to crack down on an increase in burglaries and vehicle crime reported in the area, Police have been utilising a range of prevention measures in the area including increasing visibility.

    “We are continuing to respond to these emerging issues, and taking every opportunity to disrupt this offending,” Inspector Cook says.

    “I’d like to acknowledge that member of the public’s vigilance; in seeing something suspicious and doing something about it by calling 111.”

    Police continue to encourage the community to report suspicious activity or offending as it happens by calling 111.

    Other information can be reported online, or by calling 105. Contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Many dog owners unable to properly care for their pets, annual report reveals

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council has a strong message for Aucklanders as the latest Animal Management Annual Report figures are revealed: if you can’t commit to caring for a dog properly, please do not get one.

    The appeal comes as new data shows Animal Management staff responded to a staggering 37,558 requests for service in FY23/24 – the highest number to date and a 13 per cent increase on the previous year.

    The report also shows rises in dog-related incidents across the board, including a 19 per cent increase in roaming complaints, a 14 per cent increase in dog attacks on people and a 19 per cent increase in attacks on other animals. Worryingly, welfare-related complaints saw an 80 per cent increase on the previous year.  

    Animal Management Manager, Elly Waitoa, says it’s clear that many people are struggling to look after their dogs properly.

    “What we have seen over the past year is that fewer Aucklanders are getting their dogs desexed or registered, they’re not socialising them properly and not keeping them contained to their properties. As a result, we’re seeing higher numbers of aggressive dogs out roami­­ng the streets and putting the public, other animals and themselves at risk.

    “Our plea to Aucklanders is that if you are thinking of getting a dog, please carefully consider whether you are ready for this responsibility. A dog can be a wonderful companion, but love alone is not enough to keep a dog happy, healthy and out of trouble.”­­

    [embedded content]

    More dogs impounded, fewer collected

    There were 8306 dogs impounded across the council’s three animal shelters in FY23/24 – an increase of 26 per cent on the previous year, when shelters were already operating near capacity.

    In the same period, the rate of impounded dogs claimed by their owners within the seven-day holding period hit a 10-year low at just 43 per cent.

    “Shelter staff work hard to find homes for unclaimed dogs that pass temperament tests, but a high number of dogs coming through our shelters have behaviour issues that mean they are not safe for rehoming,” says Elly.

    “This, combined with the sheer number of dogs going unclaimed has sadly meant more dogs have been euthanised than in previous years.”

    Proactive response

    Despite the challenges, Animal Management continue to do all they can to keep Aucklanders safe from dog-related harm.

    As well as responding to hundreds of complaints every day, the unit created a new proactive team last year which carries out daily patrols around schools and other high-risk areas. The proactive team also has a strong focus on education, regularly giving presentations around dog safety and responsible dog ownership at schools, libraries and community events.

    To help promote the adoption of unclaimed dogs and ease capacity pressure on the three current shelters, work to open an additional shelter in early 2025 is underway. 

    Elly says that while Animal Management is working hard to stay on top of rising dog-related issues, they need all Aucklanders to start being part of the solution.

    “It’s not just dog owners, but non-dog owners as well. If you see that your neighbour or whānau member is letting their dog out to roam, or they’re not supervising it around young children, call them out on it. If you witness a dog attacking a person or other animal, report it to the council before it happens again. It’s only when we all come together that we’re going to be able to turn this trend around.”

    Councillor thanks staff

    Chair of the Regulatory and Safety Committee, Josephine Bartley, says Animal Management staff deserve praise from Aucklanders for their dedication to an incredibly tough job.

    “The role of keeping Aucklanders safe from harm is getting harder every year for our Animal Management officers and shelter staff. Not only are they under huge pressure to respond to complaints and find room in our shelters, but they are often abused by the public for carrying out their work.

    “Despite the challenges, they remain committed to their job and are always looking at new ways they can help to address Auckland’s dog problems. I would like to commend and thank all Animal Management staff members for their efforts.”

    Read the full Animal Management Annual Report 2023-2024. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Animal Welfare – Countless fish will be confined to lives of misery under the Fast-Track Bill – SAFE

    Source: SAFE For Animals

    Animal rights organisation SAFE is alarmed by the inclusion of at least 14 fish farm developments in the Government’s recently released list of projects selected for fast tracking.
    These projects are being rushed through as a result of the new Fast Track Approvals Bill, with SAFE expressing concern at the dangerous precedent being set.
    SAFE Campaigns Manager Emily Hall says the rubber stamping of these fish farm developments without applicants being required to follow standard due process is yet another example of the coalition Government’s flagrant disregard for animal welfare.
    “Fishes bred in these underwater factory farms are subject to terrible conditions, including poor water quality, skeletal deformities, skin lesions, and heat stress. Due to severe overcrowding, these fishes are also very susceptible to the quick spread of parasites and disease, leading to unacceptably high mortality rates.”
    SAFE says all fishes confined to cages on land or at sea are prevented from exhibiting their normal patterns of behaviour, thereby breaching their legal rights.
    “Fishes are sentient beings, which means, like us, they have the capacity to experience fear, pain, distress, and a sense of well-being,” says Hall.
    “No fish farm can meet the basic welfare needs of fishes, and every one of these underwater factory farms therefore directly contradict fishes’ legal rights under New Zealand’s Animal Welfare Act.”
    In addition to being forced to exist in tragic conditions in underwater cages, SAFE says the Government has failed to produce a Code of Welfare for fishes.
    “Codes of welfare are ratified guidelines which all animal-related industries are expected to abide by, however the code of welfare to ensure the fishing industry operates in line with our Animal Welfare Act has never transpired.”
    With the Government setting a target for the aquiculture sector to be a $3bn industry by 2030, there are clearly unreasonable expectations present in terms of pressure to increase output. These dangerous goals are being facilitated by overstepping standard checks and balances and ignoring the subsequent negative impacts on animal welfare and our marine environment.
    “These blanket project approvals will commit of hundreds of thousands more fishes to lives of misery trapped in cages blatantly breaching their welfare rights, and we reinforce our call for the Government to ban fish farms outright” says Hall.
    SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
    We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
    Notes:
    – SAFE presented both written and oral submissions during the recent consultation process on the Marine Farms Extension Amendment Bill, which was rushed through parliament ‘under urgency’ at the request of current fisheries Minister, Shane Jones. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Reserve Bank – RBNZ releases Annual Report 2024

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    8 October 2024 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has today published its Annual Report covering the year from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024.

    Board Chair Professor Neil Quigley says the past year’s achievements have laid the foundations to enable significant, multi-year programmes of work.

    “The Board’s major focus this year has been to evolve our strategy and performance framework. In June, we published our refreshed Statement of Intent for 2024-2028, which, alongside our Performance Expectations, outlines our accountability for delivering on our mandate,” Professor Quigley says.  

    Over the next few years, as we continue to develop as an organisation, we will also evolve how we assess and report on our achievement against our strategic themes, outcomes and key activities.

    Highlights this year include the implementation of one of the largest programmes of work, the Deposit Takers Act; commencing the implementation of the Foreign Reserves Management and Coordination Framework; delivering our Outsourcing Policy (BS11); and the new payments messaging format (ISO 20022). All of which have helped to ensure New Zealanders can have confidence in our financial system.

    Governor Adrian Orr acknowledges we continue to operate in a challenging external environment. Global economic growth remains below trend. However, our monetary policy actions have reduced capacity pressures in the New Zealand economy and lowered consumer price inflation to 3.3 percent in June 2024, down from 6 percent in June 2023.

    “I am proud of the gains we have made as we continue to progress our vision of a trusted, inclusive, resilient, and competitive financial system,” Mr Orr says.

    “We are also exploring the future of money and role of digital currencies; we have published our Approach to Financial Inclusion; updated our Te Ao Māori strategy – Te Waka Hourua; and we will release our first climate-related financial disclosure later in October. Each initiative is moving us closer towards our vision.”

    In line with our dividend principles, the RBNZ is required to recommend to the Minister the amount of dividend to be paid to the Crown at the end of each financial year. The Minister of Finance has agreed that the RBNZ will pay a dividend of $597 million in 2023/24.
     

    More information

    Annual Report 2024 – Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua (rbnz.govt.nz) https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=038b58eb69&e=f3c68946f8

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: ASB delivering Kiwis the best in digital banking

    Source: CanStar

    October 8, 2024: Congratulations to ASB, the winner of Canstar’s Award for Bank of the Year | Digital Banking, for the third consecutive year.

    According to Canstar’s latest research, 96% of bank customers use digital banking, and 94% do all their banking online. However, digital banking habits are still evolving.

    Smartphones have transformed the way we manage our day-to-day finances: four years ago, half of Kiwis (49%) used mobile banking apps, while 42% accessed accounts through bank websites. Those figures now stand at: 70% mobile apps and 23% bank websites.

    And leading the field in transforming the way we access online banking is ASB.

    In awarding ASB Canstar’s Bank of the Year | Digital Banking title for the third year in a row, our research team noted that ASB had maintained its market-leading position across several key digital banking categories, via the ASB Mobile Banking app and its online banking portal.

    Tom Slee, Canstar Group Manager – Wealth, Health & New Zealand says, “Most of us rely on our phones to conduct all our everyday banking, and ASB’s customers truly have the power to control their finances at their fingertips.

    “ASB’s Mobile Banking app not only makes everyday banking easy, it empowers ASB customers to set savings goals and stick to them, thanks to innovated features such as Goal Planner, Spend Tracker and the Save the Change tool. Congratulations to ASB for achieving a hat-trick of Digital Banking Awards – it’s a well-deserved accomplishment.”

    ASB’s Executive General Manager Technology and Transformation, David Bullock says, “Financial wellbeing is at the heart of everything we do, and one of the many ways we are championing this is through tools such as Spend Tracker, Support Finder, Save the Change and Card Tracker. In the past financial year, more than half a million of our customers used at least one of our digital financial wellbeing tools to help get ahead and achieve their goals.

    “We’ve also continued to develop our communication channels for customers, with improvements to our chatbot, Josie, as well as introducing the ability for customers to message us directly through the ASB mobile banking app. We’re incredibly proud of the work we’re doing in this space and it’s great to have this recognised by Canstar.”

    Canstar Bank of the Year | Digital Banking Award

    Canstar’s expert research team assessed the winner of its 2024 rating methodology and feedback from 3851 bank customers. The offers customers the strongest combination of products, features and tools across offerings.

    The award is designed to help consumers make more informed financial choices and sits alongside Canstar’s other awards, covering banking, insurance and KiwiSaver products.

    Click here for more information on ASB’s win: https://www.canstar.co.nz/digital-banking/best-digital-banking/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police unveil new fit-for-purpose dog units and ute for Chatham Islands

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Today New Zealand Police and Wade Group have unveiled the new Ford Ranger 4×4 Police Dog Unit and Mitsubishi Triton ute for the Chatham Islands Police.

    The unveiling and tour of the factory at Wade Group headquarters in Hamilton was attended by Minister for Police Hon Mark Mitchell, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mike Johnson, and Hamilton Mayor Paula Southgate with representatives from Skoda and Ford.

    Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson says “I am delighted to be here alongside the Minister, Mayor Southgate, executive leaders from Giltrap, Wade, Skoda, Mitsubishi, and Ford to unveil our new Ford Ranger 4×4 Police Dog Unit and custom Mitsubishi Triton ute for the Chatham Islands.

    Police’s ongoing collaboration with these businesses, highlights the tangible impact they have on contributing to the safety of New Zealand.

    Some of the features of the Ford Ranger 4×4 dog units include two large pods for the dog to travel in, an automatic fan, and in-built magnetic water bowls.

    These vehicles are a result of the significant investment made as part of Budget 24 which ensures Police continue to have the tools we need to do our job on a day-to-day basis.
    While the overall goal is to standardise our fleet to drive cost-efficiency, it is crucial to maintain some flexibility for specific needs, especially in rural environments like the Chatham Islands.

    “I am eager to see these vehicles deployed and operational, strengthening our policing capabilities.

    They will not only provide visibility and reassurance to our communities but also enhance our ability to address public concerns around gangs and violent crime,” says Assistant Commissioner Johnson.

    Alyssa Wade, Managing Director, Wade Group says, “It’s a privilege to host the official launch of this new Ford Ranger 4 x 4 Dog Unit. This unique vehicle is the result of close collaboration between the New Zealand Police’s Dog Vehicle Working Group and Wade Group. This event comes on the back of Wade Group’s recent milestone of fitting out over 4,500 New Zealand Police vehicles to date. I’d like to recognise our team, as it’s their commitment and hard work that enables Wade Group to do our bit in helping New Zealand Police keep our communities safe.

    Neil Robinson, Operations Manager Emergency Vehicle Division, Wade Group says, “We kicked off the project back in January with a specification meeting, after nine months of hard work seeing a police dog pup in the back of the vehicle for the first time really highlighted for me the important role these new vehicles will play in the community.

    The Chatham Islands utility has a high-spec fitout, ideal for life on an island – including rust and underbody protection for longevity in a harsh sea environment. With a large portion of the work on the island being off-road, it was necessary to fit the vehicle out with bull bars, winch, snorkel, mud tyres, 360 search-light and a high spec and rugged canopy, he says.”

    As part of the event, Wade Group New Zealand showcased the production line of their Skoda Police vehicles.

    Along with the production line tour, they provided a history, and future of vehicles and the services they provide to New Zealand Police.

    There was a display of specialist vehicles from New Zealand Police, Department of Corrections and Civil Defence and Emergency Management.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renewable Energy Sector – Lake Pūkaki – back in black and on the right track

    Source: Meridian Energy

    The level of New Zealand’s largest hydro storage lake – Lake Pūkaki – is above the 91-year average for the first time since May.

    “All the rain we missed from April to August finally arrived in September,” says Meridian GM Wholesale Chris Ewers.

    “We’ve been managing our hydro lakes extremely carefully for months now, but there’s nothing like a helping hand from Mother Nature.”

    Lake Pūkaki had been below average for more than 150 days, and at historically low levels as recently as mid-August, before weeks of heavy rain and snowfall changed the outlook. Over the last week Pūkaki rose 715mm to just over 525m above sea level – 102% of average for this time of year.

    “The last few weeks have more than exceeded our expectations.”

    “September felt wet, and it was. The Waitaki catchment, which feeds Lake Pūkaki and the Waitaki Hydro Scheme, had its fourth wettest September on record,” says Chris Ewers.

    But it’s not just water in the lakes that’s welcome. In the mountains above the Waitaki catchment, snow storage is now sitting at 117% of average.

    “That’s great news for later in the season as that snow melts and feeds the lakes throughout the warmer months. After a challenging winter, we couldn’t have asked for a better start to spring.”

    The historical average level of Lake Pūkaki changes over the course of the year, and spring is generally when levels are at their lowest due to high demand for electricity and less rainfall throughout winter.

    The ongoing favourable conditions continue to ensure wholesale prices (also known as spot prices) are kept in check. The average North Island price was down $5 to $78 per megawatt hour and the average South Island price was down $5 to $69.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Ara Creative Industries collab with ‘Planetary Emergency’

    Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

    An October collaboration is a providing a chance for the talented staff of Ara’s Creative Industries Department to put their own practice on display.
    ‘Planetary Emergency’ at the Arts Centre’s Pūmanawa Gallery from 7 to 13 October is a multidisciplinary exhibition by tutors and technicians in art and design – their work responding to current environmental and social issues.
    Curator Dorothée Pauli said the artists and designers involved chose the theme as a collective and have responded to it in a variety of media, including textile design, fashion design, photography, printmaking, painting and mixed media works.
    “The theme was settled on two years ago when we discussed a combined research outcome. We have a strong commitment to research of course, as we teach at the graduate and post graduate level at Ara,” Pauli said.
    “The exhibition highlights the creative spirit at the heart of our department, and how artistic practice engages with, and comments on, complex contemporary issues,” she added.
    Pauli’s own contribution is the essay supporting the exhibition which contextualises the various works. Ara’s Visual Communication Design tutor Carl Pavletich designed the publication bringing her words and the works together.
    In it, Pauli notes that Ara staff had approached the exhibition with a united sense of purpose, continuing a long tradition in the history of the visual arts seeking to “bear witness to what we see is happening around us”.
    “We accept that art alone cannot change the world but assert that our personal actions matter and that the uniquely human capacity for aesthetic creativity privileges us to advocate for the survival and dignity for all life on earth,” she wrote.
    The exhibiting artists include Holly Liberona, Denise Mill, John Hill, Rach Winter, Stefan Roberts, Kim Lowe, John Osborne, Deb Marshall, Julie Humby, Sandra Thomson, Wendy Clarke, Katharina Jaeger, Oliver Perkins, Carol King and Jane Schollum.
    Besides their teaching and research commitments in their respective fields, a significant number of the exhibitors maintain an independent creative practice.
    “Daily, our focus is the growth and development of our ākonga, seven of whom achieved Master’s qualifications in Ara’s recent Spring graduation,” Pauli said. “Investment in their work can take precedence over our own practices but ‘Planetary Emergency’ is a rare chance to express our own expertise.”
    It’s been three years since staff have collaborated in this way, and a project they had embraced enthusiastically.
    “They’ve all responded differently. Some have pushed planetary emergency awareness and environmental concerns; others allow more room for personal interpretation of the work. The audience will take away what they will take away,” Pauli said.
    Current art and design ākonga said they felt honoured to attend the exhibition opening.
    “It’s the first time we’ve had a chance to see their work. It’s like putting a face to a name,” second year Applied Visual Arts student Amy Carpenter said.
    “They can be a bit shy about talking about themselves or sharing what their own practices may look like. To be able to have more of an understanding of their work is great.”
    Supported by the Ara Institute of Canterbury Research Fund, Planetary Emergency is on for just seven days in the heritage Pūmanawa Gallery at the Christchurch Arts Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: June 2024 quarter

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: June 2024 quarter – information release – 8 October 2024 – Tatauranga umanga Māori – Statistics on Māori businesses: June 2024 quarter presents information on one subset of Māori businesses that contribute to our country’s economy. This release includes data on Māori authorities and related businesses. It does not cover all Māori businesses in Aotearoa New Zealand.

    Māori authorities are defined as businesses that receive, manage, and/or administer assets held in common ownership by iwi and Māori. Māori authorities are largely identified through their tax codes as registered with Inland Revenue. Any business within a Māori authority ownership group is also included for the purposes of Tatauranga umanga Māori.

    Key facts
    In the June 2024 quarter, around 1,450 Māori authorities and related businesses were in the Tatauranga umanga Māori population.

    All figures are actual values and are not adjusted for seasonal effects.

    In the June 2024 quarter compared with the June 2023 quarter:

    • the total value of sales by Māori authorities was $1,057 million, up $4.3 million (0.4 percent)
    • the total value of purchases by Māori authorities was $774 million, down $25 million (3.2 percent)
    • the total number of filled jobs for Māori authorities was 12,100, up 390 jobs (3.3 percent)
    • the total value of earnings by employees of Māori authorities was $219 million, up $15 million (7.4 percent)
    • Māori authorities exported $216 million worth of goods, up $5.6 million (2.7 percent).

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts – $25,000 CLNZ | NZSA Writers’ Award has been awarded to writer Mark Derby

    Source: The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc

    Mark Derby has been awarded the 2024 Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) and The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc, CLNZ | NZSA $25,000 Writers’ Award for his project, with the working title, ‘Outlaw Prophet – Hakaraia Mahika and the Tauranga Wars,’ This book is an account of the New Zealand Wars in the Bay of Plenty, with a focus on an extraordinary spiritual and military leader.

    Mark Derby says “I’ve been intrigued by the impressive, mysterious 19th century Bay of Plenty prophet Hakaraia Mahika for decades, ever since I saw a mention to him in Belich’s The New Zealand Wars, as a leader who deserves more attention from historians. Since then I’ve been gathering archival and other information about Hakaraia in a piecemeal manner, while writing other projects such as Waitangi Tribunal reports in the Bay of Plenty region. This generous grant is the spur I need to turn that large body of information into a book. I’ve also recently been asked by Hakaraia’s descendants to contribute to tribal wānanga about their tūpuna and his legacy, and it’s an honour to support local Māori to engage with their own history in this way. The NZSA|CLNZ grant means I can participate fully in these wānanga at no cost to anyone else. I am very grateful for it.”

    The CLNZ | NZSA Writers’ Award is one of the annual investments made through the CLNZ Cultural Fund and is open to writers of any genre of non-fiction, including writers of education material. The award enables the successful applicant to devote time to a specific writing project. This year’s winner, Mark Derby is a Wellington writer and freelance historian.

    On the applications overall, convenor Dr Vanda Symon said, “It was heartening to see such a high number of entrants for this year’s  Writers’ Award across a diverse field of topics. The range of works included everything from local history to biography and memoir to educational projects to works tackling topical issues of today. The quality and significance of the entrants made for a tough time for the judges. Our congratulations to the finalists and the winner.”

    Judging panellist Jade Kake said of Derby’s project, “Hakaraia Mahika (Tapuika), a once (in)famous and perhaps controversial actor in the New Zealand Wars and a contemporary of the likes of Wiremu Tamihana, Rewi Maniapoto and Te Kooti, has since receded from sight and is now a little-known figure. An important new contribution to New Zealand history profiling a significant figure in the New Zealand Wars who has largely been forgotten by the history books.”

    While Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod, the third judge on the panel, said that “This project is of strong Aotearoa New Zealand interest and gives much needed attention to the Bay of Plenty wars and I am convinced Mark Derby has the track record to deliver.”

    The judging panel also highlighted Barbara Dreaver’s project Voyaging the Pacific and Jane McCabe’s project Taiwhenua: Family Land in Rural Aotearoa, which were both shortlisted for the Award.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors (NZSA) Te Puni Kaituhi O Aotearoa (PEN NZ) Inc was proud to administer the award this year. CLNZ and NZSA would like to thank all the writers who took the time to apply and to this year’s judging panel of Dr Vanda Symon, Jade Kake and Elizabeth Kirkby-McLeod.

    Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) plays a key role in making creative rights valuable assets for all New Zealanders, be they rightsholders like writers, publishers and artists, or users of creative works such as educators, students and businesses. CLNZ manages the Cultural Fund, which derives its revenue from licensing income.

    The New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa PEN NZ Inc is the principal organisation representing writers in Aotearoa. Founded in 1934, it advocates for the right to fair reward and creative rights, administers prizes and awards, works across the literary sector to make Aotearoa New Zealand writers and books more visible, and runs professional development programmes for writers. authors.org.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media are invited to the 378 Recruit Wing graduation

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    New Zealand Police is pleased to announce the 378-recruit wing will be graduating from their initial training course on Thursday morning 10 October in front of whānau and friends.

    Attending the ceremony will be Assistant Commissioner Jevon McSkimming and the Police executive, Hon Mark Mitchell the Minister for Police, Hon Casey Costello, Associate Minister for Police along with Wing Patron, Hon Hekia Parata.

    Wing 378’s prize-winners are spread across five policing districts, namely Auckland City, Bay of Plenty, Eastern, Tasman and Canterbury.

    More details about statistics, prize winners and other recruits will be shared after graduation on Thursday.

    Patron details:

    The Honourable Hekia Parata (Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Porou) has provided 41 years of public service to New Zealand.

    She began her public service career with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after graduating from the University of Waikato with a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in Māori Studies. Hekia was a Member of Parliament, representing the National Party, from 2008 until 2017 when she retired.  Since then she’s has had several appointments to ministerial inquiries, such as leading the 2023 inquiry into forestry land use after Cyclone Gabrielle.

    Graduation day:

    Media are welcome to attend the graduation parade which takes place at 10am at The Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua.

    Please RSVP to the Police Media Centre as soon as possible:  media@police.govt.nz

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Nigeria

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

    • Reviewed: 4 October 2024, 15:33 NZDT
    • Still current at: 8 October 2024

    Related news features

    If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

    Do not travel to the states of Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Niger, Plateau, Rivers (including Port Harcourt and Bonny Island), the river areas of Cross River state, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe and Zamfara. There is an ongoing significant threat from terrorism and a very high threat of kidnapping, localised conflict, and armed attacks in these areas. The security situation is volatile. If you are in one of these areas you should consider departing as soon as it is safe to do so. (Level 4 of 4).

    Avoid non-essential travel elsewhere in Nigeria (except the cities of Calabar, Abuja and Lagos), due to the threat from terrorism, kidnapping and violent crime (level 3 of 4).

    Exercise increased caution in the cities of Calabar, Abuja and Lagos due to the threat of terrorism and violent crime (level 2 of 4).

    Nigeria

    Terrorism
    There is a very high threat from terrorism, especially in northern and northeastern states, and bandit groups are increasingly active in the northwest. No location in Nigeria should be viewed as being outside the scope of terrorist groups. Terror attacks occur very regularly in Nigeria. There have been many serious attacks which have resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries. The terrorist group Boko Haram regularly mounts large-scale attacks in Nigeria, including bombings, gun assaults, assassinations, arson and mass kidnappings. Future attacks are highly probable, most likely by Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa (ISWA). Attacks by bandit groups on civilians, motorists and local communities can involve gunfire, explosives, machetes and kidnapping.

    Most attacks take place in areas where we advise Do Not Travel, future attacks could occur anywhere in Nigeria. The Federal Capital Territory (Abuja) has been targeted in several attacks in recent years, resulting in high numbers of deaths and injuries. Further attacks in Abuja, Lagos and elsewhere are likely and could be indiscriminate.

    Armed groups often target transport routes. Avoid intercity transport via road or rail. If despite our advice you undertake travel within Nigeria, we advise that you seek professional security advice and support before departing.

    Other common targets include churches and mosques during times of worship, government and security institutions, hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, markets, educational facilities and police stations. Many attacks have occurred around religious or public holidays or festivals in public and crowded places. We advise New Zealanders to remain vigilant at all times. Locations frequented by foreigners have been attacked and may be targeted again. 

    Military operations against Boko Haram in northern and north-eastern parts of Nigeria are ongoing. New Zealanders in Nigeria should be aware that any increase in violence between security forces and terrorist groups is likely to increase the possibility of terrorism throughout Nigeria.

    Local authorities in Nigeria often impose, amend and lift curfews in response to security incidents at short notice. New Zealanders in areas affected by violence are advised to monitor local media for the latest information on possible curfews and restrictions on movement, and follow any advice from local authorities.

    Local authorities may also interrupt telecommunication services in the northeastern states without notice and for indeterminate periods of time. Neighbouring states may also be affected by these disruptions.

    New Zealanders throughout Nigeria are also advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources.

    Kidnapping
    There is a high threat of kidnapping throughout Nigeria, particularly in North and North-Eastern Nigeria and in the Niger Delta states. Attacks are often indiscriminate – residents and foreigners alike have been abducted and held captive, with some deaths being reported. Humanitarian aid workers may be targeted.

    There is an increasing risk of kidnapping by bandit groups throughout Nigeria, including in Abuja and Lagos. Kidnappers often target transport routes.

    Expatriate workers at oil and gas facilities in the Niger Delta states are at particular risk of kidnapping, which is typically financially motivated. New Zealanders working in the Niger Delta states against our advice are advised to seek professional security advice and ensure appropriate personal security measures are in place at all times.

    Violent Crime
    There are high rates of violent crime such as armed robbery, home invasion, mugging, carjacking, sexual assault and violent assault throughout Nigeria. Crime is more prevalent at night, particularly in urban areas, such as Lagos, and on the main highways.

    New Zealanders in Nigeria are advised to be security conscious at all times and should avoid walking and travelling at night, particularly to isolated areas. No resistance should be given if you are the victim of a robbery, mugging or carjacking as this could lead to an escalation in violence. As victims of robbery are often targeted due to their perceived wealth, it is advisable to avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery. We also recommend carrying the minimum amount of cash required.   

    When driving you should keep doors locked, windows up and keep any valuables out of sight. Don’t use public transportation throughout Nigeria due to safety reasons. We recommend using prearranged transport only or making bookings through your hotel.

    Civil Unrest
    Numerous deaths and injuries have occurred as a result of violent civil unrest and inter-communal violence in Nigeria in recent years.  In the past government security forces have sometimes used live ammunition to disperse demonstrations. There is an ongoing heightened risk of violence, particularly in central and northern regions. Bystanders can get caught up in the violence directed at others. 

    New Zealanders are advised to avoid all large public gatherings, protests, demonstrations and political rallies as even those intended to be peaceful  have the potential to turn  violent. If you are in an area affected by unrest, you should leave the immediate vicinity, stay indoors and monitor local media to stay informed of developments.

    Piracy
    Piracy, including against off-shore oil rigs, is a significant problem in Nigerian waters. There have been armed robberies targeting ships in the coastal areas of the Gulf of Guinea, including in the Niger Delta region.

    Mariners are advised to take appropriate precautionary measures. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report. 

    Scams
    Commercial and internet fraud is common in Nigeria, including internet relationship scams. New Zealanders should be wary of any offers that seem too good to be true, as they may be a scam. For further information see our advice on Internet Fraud and International Scams and Internet dating scams.

    General Information
    As there is no New Zealand diplomatic presence in Nigeria, the ability of the government to provide assistance to New Zealand citizens is severely limited, particularly in areas where we advise against all travel.

    We offer advice to New Zealanders about contingency planning that travellers to Nigeria should consider.

    Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour in Nigeria to avoid offending local sensitivities. Sharia law operates in many Northern states. Same-sex relationships are illegal in all parts of Nigeria.

    Photography of airports, government buildings and military installations is illegal, and can result in fines or imprisonment.

    Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or fines.

    Keep your passport in a safe place and only carry a photocopy for identification purposes. Checkpoints operate throughout the country. Police officers and individuals posing as police officers have been known to solicit bribes. New Zealanders should carry relevant personal identification and vehicle registration papers with them at all times.

    The possession, sale and export of African art, particularly antiquities, without authorisation may carry heavy penalties.

    New Zealanders travelling or living in Nigeria should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

    New Zealanders in Nigeria are strongly encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

     

    Travel tips

    The New Zealand Embassy Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is accredited to Nigeria

    Street Address Bole Sub City, Woreda 03, House No 111, Behind Atlas Hotel/close to Shala Park, (Namibia Street), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Postal Address New Zealand Embassy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Private Bag 18-901 Wellington Mail Centre 5045, Wellington Telephone +251-11-515-1269 Fax +251-11-552-6115 Email aue@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/ethiopia Hours Open to the public: Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm by appointment Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance after hours, please call the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s 24/7 Consular Emergency line on +64 99 20 20 20.

    See our regional advice for Africa

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