NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fast-track projects released

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The 149 projects released today for inclusion in the Government’s one-stop-shop Fast Track Approvals Bill will help rebuild the economy and fix our housing crisis, improve energy security, and address our infrastructure deficit, Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop says.

    “The 149 projects selected by the Government have significant regional or national benefits. They will make a big difference in the regions by delivering jobs and growth and develop a pipeline of major projects to help boost the economy,” Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.

    “The projects have been selected through a thorough and robust process which included an open application process run by Ministry for the Environment, analysis by officials, an independent assessment and recommendations process by an independent Advisory Group, and final decisions by Cabinet. 

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

    “As we’ve publicly said before, the Government is also recommending to the Environment Committee that expert panels have the ability to decline approval for projects.

    “The expert panels will include members with technical expertise relevant to a project, expertise in environmental matters (and where relevant, conservation), and the Treaty of Waitangi. They will function much the same way as the COVID-19 Fast Track legislation established by the previous government.

    “The Fast Track Approvals Bill is a key part of the government’s plan to rebuild our economy and cut through the red and green tape that has made it more and more difficult to build the projects New Zealand needs.

    “For example, the 44 listed housing developments will enable up to 55,000 new homes to be consented in New Zealand’s major growth centres and across our regions, playing a significant part in addressing New Zealand’s housing crisis. 

    “The seven aquaculture and farming projects will strengthen partnerships with iwi to boost Māori development and are expected to have an output of up to 143,000 tonnes per annum. 

    “There are 43 infrastructure projects that will help to address our infrastructure deficit and, among other benefits, result in at least 180km of new road, rail and public transport routes. Having these projects fast-tracked will mean we can continue moving at pace to deliver a new generation of Roads of National and Regional Significance (RoNS and RoRS) for New Zealand to support economic growth and get people and freight to where they want to go, quickly and safely. The eight quarrying projects on the list will help to enable these and other future infrastructure projects.

    “The 22 renewable electricity projects will help electrify the New Zealand economy, boost energy security and help New Zealand address its climate change goals. New Zealand has abundant renewable energy resources but the planning system puts barrier after barrier in the way of taking advantage of them. Collectively the projects will contribute an additional 3 gigawatts of generation capacity, if all consented. By comparison, Auckland’s historic peak demand is about 2 gigawatts.

    “The 11 mining projects will make a major contribution to the Government’s resource objective of doubling the value of our mineral exports to $2 billion by 2035, extracting coal, gold, iron sands and mineral sands. They will deliver measurable benefits to regional and national GDP, highly-skilled and highly-paid jobs in the regions, and other associated benefits like the retention of regional infrastructure. 

    “Our regions and the New Zealanders living in them have enormous potential, and the Fast-track projects, freed up from stifling consenting processes, are another change that is giving them back the wings they deserve,” Mr Jones says.

    “The projects will bring a big boost, and will help stimulate various industries, including the aquaculture, energy, housing, and mining sectors. This progress is going to help get things moving and flowing where it is needed, in the form of job creation, construction, new opportunities, and more business.

    “What people can expect is real change, and visible change, that benefits their families and their economies. And the great news is that through Fast-track, this will be sooner rather than later.”

    “While the independent Advisory Group recommended to Ministers a total of 342 projects for inclusion in the Bill, Cabinet chose to include only 149 of them to better reflect the capacity from expert panels to assess and consent these projects,” Mr Bishop says.

    “Because of the unprecedented level of interest in this process, it became clear that so many projects were suitable for 2A that having a separate list for Schedule 2B became unnecessary, so it will be deleted from the Bill.

    “We emphasise that the makeup of the final list isn’t a reflection of the quality of projects not listed, nor is it a sign that any future application to the Fast-track process for these projects would be unsuccessful.

    “We thank all applicants who submitted projects to be considered for inclusion in the Bill, and the independent Advisory Group for their work in assessing these applications.”

    Note to Editors

    Please see attached:

    • List of projects
    • Fact sheet

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrests following aggravated robbery, Pōkeno

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police have arrested five people following the aggravated robbery of a liquor store on Market Road in Pōkeno last night.

    At around 7.40pm on Saturday 5 October, four masked people entered the liquor store and assaulted two staff members.

    Following the assault on the staff members, the four offenders stole alcohol, cigarettes and the cash till, before leaving at speed in a stolen car.

    A short time after the robbery, a Police unit observed the stolen car heading north on the Southern Motorway near Takanini.

    The Police helicopter Eagle was able to monitor the car as it continued north and exited the motorway at Ellerslie/Panmure.

    The car continued on until Edmondton Road, where the four offenders were observed by Eagle abandoning the stolen car, transferring items to a second car, and then being driven away in that second car.

    Police units stopped that car a short time later and took the four offenders from the aggravated robbery into custody, as well as the driver of the second car.

    All five people taken into custody – three males aged 16, 17 and 20, and two females aged 17 and 53 – have been charged with aggravated robbery.

    Those aged 16 and 17 are due to appear in Manukau Youth Court, while the other offenders will appear in Manukau District Court.

    The staff members at the liquor store received minor to moderate injuries and were treated by Ambulance staff at the scene.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fast-track to drive transport projects forward

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has enabled fast-track consenting for 29 critical road, rail, and port projects across New Zealand to deliver these priority projects faster and boost economic growth, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says. 

    “New Zealand has an infrastructure deficit, and our Government is working to fix it. Delivering the transport infrastructure Kiwis needs is part of our plan to boost productivity, reduce congestion, and unleash economic growth. Enabling fast-track for these projects will allow them to be built quicker and more efficiently,” Mr Brown says.

    “New Zealand needs fast-track legislation to establish a steady pipeline of consented infrastructure projects, including the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) and Roads of Regional Significance (RoRS). The previous government abruptly stopped the successful Roads of National Significance programme and left Warkworth to Wellsford as the only new major roading project with consent.

    As part of the Government’s plan to rebuild the economy and address the infrastructure deficit, 29 transport projects have been listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Bill, this includes:
     

    • 16 road projects (including a Brynderwyns alternative, Mill Road in Auckland, the Woodend Bypass, and a second Ashburton Bridge)
    • 5 rail projects (including level crossing removals in Auckland, and Lower North Island rail upgrades)
    • 5 port projects (including container terminal expansion at Northport)
    • 3 major public transport projects (including the Airport to Botany Rapid Transit)
       

    Once complete, these projects will result in at least 180 kilometres of new road, rail and public transport corridors throughout New Zealand.

    “Through the Fast-track Approvals Bill, the Government is cutting through the red tape to rebuild the pipeline of transport infrastructure projects. These listed projects throughout the country are focused on growing our economy and increasing productivity,” Mr Brown says.

    “We are moving at pace to deliver a new generation of RoNS for New Zealand to boost productivity. We are providing travel options by investing in public transport and rail. And we are unlocking growth by increasing capacity at New Zealand’s ports. 

    “There is plenty of work to be done, and the inclusion of these projects for fast tracked consents means that Kiwis will experience the benefits of these projects sooner rather than later. These projects are critical to reducing travel times, unlocking land for thousands of new homes, and enabling goods to get to marketplaces in New Zealand and abroad.  

    “Including these projects in the fast-track approvals process provides a much more efficient way of getting them approved and consented. This announcement will give confidence to NZTA, KiwiRail and the wider construction sector that there is a strong pipeline of projects to work on and deliver over the coming years.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Iwi-led and partnered projects among those referred for Fast Track approval

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Kia uru kahikatea te tū. 

    Projects referred for Fast-Track approval will help supercharge the Māori economy and realise the huge potential of Iwi and Māori assets, Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says.

    Following robust and independent review, the Government has today announced 149 projects that have significant regional or national benefits to be included in the one-stop-shop Fast-Track Approvals Bill when it is reported back to Parliament.

    “It’s great to see at least 15 significant Iwi-led or partnered projects among those spanning a variety of industries that will help rebuild the economy, boost renewable energy, grow infrastructure, develop aquaculture and mining, and build homes to fix the housing crisis,” Potaka says.

    “Today’s announcement reflects the increasing diversification of Iwi and Māori interests.

    “While there are housing developments proposed across the motu including the Tainui Group Holdings Ruakura Tūmata development in Hamilton, there are also marine farms by Te Aupouri Fisheries Management Limited and Ngāi Tahu, and a solar farm by the Tauhara North No.2 Trust.

    “Various projects are located in rōhe where Māori are a substantial number of the local population,” Potaka says. “Projects will make a big difference in the regions by offering valuable training, employment and business growth opportunities, and creating a pipeline of major projects to boost the economy. I expect Māori-owned SMEs to also benefit from increased economic activity and localised procurement.

    “Iwi and Māori business are making increasingly significant contributions to our economy. Enabling the use and growth of Iwi and Māori assets is essential as we work toward closing the economic delta between Māori and the rest of New Zealand.

    “The seven aquaculture and farming projects, for example, can strengthen partnerships with Iwi to boost Māori development with an expected output of up to 143,000 tonnes per annum.

    “We’re creating the right conditions for boosting Māori economic growth that will fire-up Aotearoa New Zealand to be a small leading advanced nation with greater equality of opportunity. This will support stronger whānau and stronger communities.  Kia kaha tātou.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, Tuamarina, Malborough

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have this afternoon recovered the bodies of three people who were unaccounted for following a crash in Marlborough overnight.

    The crash at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Bush Road in Tuamarina was reported to Police at 1.45am today.

    Two people were able to escape from the car after it crashed into the Tuamarina River, however three people were unaccounted for.

    The Police National Dive Squad was deployed and at around 12pm today located the car submerged in the river.

    Tragically all three remaining occupants were found deceased in the car.

    Support is being provided to the families of the deceased, as well as to the two survivors who suffered moderate injuries in the crash.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are under way.

    The road has now reopened.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious Crash, Waikato Expressway, Huntly

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are responding to a single vehicle crash on the Waikato Expressway at Huntly.

    Emergency Services were called to the scene around 3pm.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

    The road is closed and diversions are in place. 

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, Waikato Expressway, Huntly

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One person has died following a crash on the Waikato Expressway at Huntly this afternoon.

    Emergency services responded to a report of a crash in which a motorcycle had collided with a median barrier, at around 3pm today.

    Sadly, the motorcyclist died at the scene of the crash.

    The road was closed while emergency services attended and Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination. The road has now re-opened.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are under way.

    If you were traveling in the area at the time of the crash and have dashcam footage that could assist with the investigation, please contact Police via 105, referencing event number P060198944.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: KASM slams government decision to fast-track dangerous seabed mining

    Source: Kiwis Against Seabed Mining

    Kiwis Against Seabed Mining today slammed the government for putting a failed and hugely dangerous and experimental project like Trans Tasman Resources bid to mine the seabed in the South Taranaki Bight on the fast track list.

    “It’s a sad day for Aotearoa New Zealand when an experimental industry that has been examined in detail and ultimately failed by this country’s Supreme Court, gets to be rushed through with limited consideration,”  said KASM Chairperson Cindy Baxter.

    “This 100% Australian-owned company is in a terrible financial state:  it has no idea how to extract the so-called ‘critical minerals’ out of the ironsands, and it hasn’t been able to prove seabed mining safe.  It cannot be allowed to go ahead. There will be nothing in it for the people of Taranaki, and it would set a huge and dangerous precedent.”

    “This is a long way from over: we will do everything we can to stop this monstrosity from going ahead, and we have tens of thousands of Kiwis behind us,” she said.

    The TTR’s failed bid to dig up 50 million tonnes of the South Taranaki Bight every year for 35 years –  in a 66 square kilometre area – would be the first off the ranks, but it could set the precedent to grow into a massive 877 square kilometre seabed mining zone. (The company already has a mining licence for a 242 sqkm area and is already touting this area plus another 635 square kms to its investors).

    The resulting sediment plume from seabed mining will spread right across the Bight, interfering with feeding grounds for seabirds and marine mammals.

    The Bight is home to a population of pygmy blue whales unique to New Zealand, with whales experts describing the impact of the noise from seabed mining as “like living next to a vacuum cleaner for 35 years.”

    Also affected will be little blue penguins, or Kororā, some of whom swim 100kms from the Marlborough Sounds to feed at the Patea Shoals.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Conservation – Luxon escalates War on Nature with mining-heavy Fast Track list – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    Christopher Luxon’s bleak vision of New Zealand as a giant open-cast mine comes one step closer as the Government announces eleven mining projects it will push through under the controversial fast-track approvals process, says Greenpeace.
    Greenpeace spokesperson Juressa Lee says, “This is no surprise, but it’s still a shock to hear that amidst the climate and biodiversity crises, this Government is going to forge ahead with eleven new mines using the much-maligned fast track approvals process.
    “It’s especially concerning to see that the Trans-Tasman Resources Taranaki seabed mining project is on the list after being such an abject failure in the environment court and Supreme Court and attracting such widespread opposition from mana whenua, the environmental movement and the offshore wind industry.”
    By attempting to fast track seabed mining the Luxon Government is blocking one of New Zealand’s most important new renewable energy projects – offshore wind. The offshore wind industry has said seabed mining in the South Taranaki Bight will prevent an offshore wind generation project being established there.
    “With this announcement, Christopher Luxon, Chris Bishop and Shane Jones are running roughshod over expert advice, and all of those New Zealanders who don’t want to see the forests and oceans of Aotearoa turned to open cast mines, rivers and lakes turned to sewers and more precious species pushed to extinction.”
    Greenpeace says the projects won’t go ahead without a fight, citing the 20,000-plus-strong protest March for Nature and over 12,000 people signing on to an open letter of resistance to the fast track bill.
    “Any company seeking to use the fast track bill to get around existing environmental protections and the wishes of iwi, hapū and local communities who want nature protected should have a good hard think about how badly that will reflect on them and their shareholders, and the resistance they will face.
    “There are some worthy projects on the list but they are tainted by the process and the presence of Trans-Tasman Resources at the bottom of the barrel. The fast track is the wrong track and will be a poisoned chalice for those companies who risk it.”
    Greenpeace says there are many other notorious projects causing ecological destruction in the list including:
    • The Hawkes Bay Tukituki Water Security Project, formerly known as the Ruataniwha Water Storage Scheme, which seeks to dam the Makaroro River to recreate a water storage reservoir is also on the list. Greenpeace fought against the Ruataniwha dam for several years before it was shelved.
    • The Waitaha Hydro Scheme will flood high conservation land, a project previously declined because of the widespread destruction of nature.
    • The Hurunui irrigation scheme will kill a wild river and result in more intensive dairy operations with associated pollution.
    • Mining on the Stockton Plateau will cause immense environmental destruction. The International Energy Agency has said there can be no new investment in oil, gas and coal if governments are serious about stopping climate change.
    • Waimate waste-to-energy incineration
    • And others
    Greenpeace occupied the Straterra building last month in a protest against the possibility of its client’s Trans-Tasman Resources seabed mining project being included. The action resulted in several arrests but Greenpeace says it was a sign of things to come and “a demonstration of the resistance promised” in the recently published open letter to all companies considering using the Fast Track Approvals process which has since increased from 7,500 signatories to over 12,000.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fast Track Megaprison for Auckland a Disgrace Says Criminologist

    Source: People Against Prisons Aotearoa

    The government has today announced the projects slated to go ahead under the controversial Fast Track Bill, which will bypass consultation and approval processes.

    One project is a previously unannounced construction at Auckland Prison (Paremoremo), which will almost double its capacity up to 1,200 people. University of Auckland lecturer in Criminology and People Against Prisons Aotearoa spokesperson Dr. Emmy Rākete says the plan is unnecessary and unrealistic.

    “Auckland Prison is already so overcrowded and understaffed that prison management is unable to cope,” says Dr. Rākete. “Turning Paremoremo into a megaprison will inevitably result in abuse, violence, and riots.”

    Auckland Prison is primarily for high and maximum security prisoners. It includes the “Prisoners of Extreme Risk Unit,” which the Office of the Ombudsman recently found had kept a prisoner in solitary confinement for almost three years.

    “As a 600 person prison, Paremoremo is sloppily-run, dangerous, and violent. As a megaprison, Paremoremo would be a pit as dangerous to the staff as to the people inside it.”

    “New Zealand’s prison system is actually well below its maximum capacity right now. At the same time as the coalition of cuts are defunding hospitals to give tax cuts to landlords, it is ramming billions into prison expansion. Who will these new prisons be built for? The government knows that austerity creates violence and crime, and is choosing austerity anyway. The rich will get richer and the poor will get prisons.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – HMNZS Manawanui crew and passengers rescued after ship runs aground in Samoa

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force

    Crew and passengers of Royal New Zealand Navy Ship HMNZS Manawanui were rescued in the early hours of the morning on Sunday in Samoa after the vessel was grounded off the southern coast of Upolu, Samoa.

    The incident occurred on Saturday evening while conducting a hydrographic survey 1 nautical mile from shore.

    The 75 crew and passengers from other government agencies began evacuating into lifeboats at 7.52 pm on Saturday 5 October.

    The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) worked closely with the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) who led the rescue effort. Numerous vessels responded to provide assistance, and a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon was also deployed to assist.

    Rescuers battled currents and winds that were pushing the life rafts and sea boats toward the reefs, and swells made the rescue effort particularly challenging.

    “We are very grateful for the assistance of everyone involved, from RCCNZ who coordinated rescue efforts, to the vessels which responded and took our crew and passengers from Manawanui to safety,’’ Maritime Component Commander Commodore Shane Arndell said.

    Those on board the life boats and sea boats from HMNZS Manawanui were transferred to vessels that responded to the rescue call and were transported ashore.  

    At this stage the exact cause of the grounding is unknown and this will need further investigation. At 6.40 am Sunday, the ship was listing heavily and smoke was visible from the ship. At 9.00 am it was known to have capsized and was below the surface. The NZDF is working with authorities to understand the implications and minimise the environmental impacts.

    Support is being provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Samoan authorities to the crew and passengers from Manawanui and they are being accommodated in Samoa. The NZDF will be sending aircraft to Samoa to bring them back to New Zealand.

    This was HMNZS Manawanui’s third deployment to the South West Pacific this year. The ship had a series of activities scheduled including in the Kermadec Islands, Samoa, Tokelau and Niue. They sailed from Devonport on 28 September and were due to return home on 1 November.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: First Responders – Ahipara vegetation fire: Update #2

    Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

    The vegetation fire near Ahipara is now contained.
    There is no active fire front. Crews from Fire and Emergency New Zealand are working with forestry firefighters with heavy machinery and supported by helicopters to ensure the containment holds.
    Tonight specialist drone crews will be conducting thermal imaging to check for hotspots.
    From tomorrow crews will be on the ground checking for any smouldering hotspots.
    The fire has burned 177 hectares and has a perimeter of 7.1 kilometres.
    There will be a final update tomorrow afternoon.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Mining Sector – Straterra says Mining belongs on fast-track list

    Source: Straterra Inc

    Today’s release of the first projects for the fast-track list acknowledges the regional and national significance of mining, says Straterra chief executive Josie Vidal.
    “At a time when manufacturing and processing plants are closing in the regions, mining brings much needed jobs and money into regional communities, and exports to boost our trade deficit. Mining belongs on the fast-track list,” Vidal says.
    “There is a lot of misinformation about the fast-track process. The value is in the ‘one-stop shop’ approach to consenting projects which saves time and money by allowing applications to be considered by a group of experts, once. We hope a similar approach will continue through all the Resource Management Act reforms eventually doing away with the need for a separate fast-track bill.
    “Responsible mining in New Zealand will still meet the same high employment and health and safety standards, and strict environmental conditions as it does now. Those conditions include paying bonds and having full mine closure plans to return the mined land to how it was before, if not better.
    “Gold and coal, as well as the minerals on the recently released draft critical minerals list, are all vital to our high-tech, low emissions future. It is right that if they can be mined in New Zealand, that they should be.
    “New Zealand needs the Fast-track Approvals Bill to deliver on the Government’s promise. Once the bill is passed, more mining projects can apply for inclusion.
    “We urge people with any concerns about mining or the fast-track bill to do their research, talk to experts, and think about life without mining those minerals in New Zealand. We don’t have an economy to sustain importing everything.
    “There is real value in the Coalition Government’s goal of doubling mineral exports by 2035.”
    Straterra is the industry association representing New Zealand’s minerals and mining sector. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Fast track list reveals Govt’s backroom deals

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The coalition Government’s backroom deals with coal and ironsands mining companies have finally been revealed – and it’s not pretty.

    “The coalition Government has just confirmed a line-up of projects that could wreak havoc on our natural environment,” Labour’s acting environment spokesperson David Parker said.

    “The list includes previously rejected projects like Trans-Tasman Resources’ seabed mining and the Waitaha Hydro Project – both rejected for their adverse effects on the environment. 

    “It’s now clear why the Government has hidden this list for so long.

    “We’ve seen worrying cases like the Ōhinemuri River turning orange due to arsenic from an old mine. Dozens of other contaminated sites, many from mining, are still waiting to be cleaned up at the cost of New Zealanders, not the polluters.

    “More than 100 projects were approved under Labour’s version of fast track without overriding environmental laws. This included projects for renewable energy, transmission, housing, roads and retirement villages.

    “This time it is different – environmental protections under the Resource Management Act, the Conservation Act, the Wildlife Act and the Mining Act can and will be overridden. There is no credible explanation for conferring those wide powers to override those Acts.  

    “This backwards move is irresponsible, and will undermine our clean-green reputation, which underlies the premium price New Zealand gets for our milk and meat exports.

    “The tens of thousands of New Zealanders who marched in protest against the Fast Track Bill are right to be disappointed,” David Parker said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hawke’s Bay man charged for indecent communication with young person

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A 46-year-old man has been arrested and charged by Police, after allegedly attempting to meet a young teenage girl for sex.

    The man was arrested on Friday 4 October following an investigation by Hawke’s Bay Police and the OCEANZ (Online Child Exploitation Across NZ) unit. 

    He is facing three charges of indecent communication with a young person under 16, and one charge of travelling to meet a young person-sex grooming.

    Detective Sergeant Alex MacDonald says OCEANZ had received information that the man was allegedly attempting to contact young girls for the purposes of sexual abuse.

    “This kind of offending in our communities is incredibly alarming and serves as an excellent reminder of the need to be vigilant around online safety for children and young people,” says Detective Sergeant MacDonald.

    “The school holidays would be a great time to sit down with your kids and have a conversation about how to stay safe online. You can find information on the Police website to help with those conversations.”

    The man charged with this offending is scheduled to appear in Hastings District Court today (Monday 7 October).

    Detective Senior Sergeant John McCarthy from Hawke’s Bay Police’s Child Protection Team says the investigation into this matter is ongoing and is not ruling out identifying further victims.

    “We will continue to work with OCEANZ to ensure that offenders targeting young people in our community in this way are held to account for their actions,” says Detective Senior Sergeant McCarthy.

    “We urge anyone with concerns about potential criminal behaviour targeting children or young people to get in touch with Police so that we can investigate.”
     

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Nicole McKee unfit for firearms portfolio

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    Fresh questions have been raised about the conduct of the Firearms Minister after revelations she misled New Zealanders about her role in stopping gun reforms prior to the mosque shootings.

    Despite previously claiming on TVNZ Q+A that she urged the Government to close the loopholes around high capacity magazines – it’s now been revealed that did not happen.

    In fact, it was her suggestion to the then Minister Paula Bennett that she reject select committee recommendations around semi-automatic firearms, which would’ve closed the loopholes later exploited by the March 15 terrorist.

    “It’s the latest in a list of concerns about conflicts of interest for the Minister, who is still closely linked to the gun lobby while trying to roll back legal safeguards put in place after the terror attacks,” Labour’s Police spokesperson Ginny Andersen said.

    “This reporting is even more concerning as the next phase in the coronial inquiry into the terror attack gets underway this coming week. It will explicitly address the history of firearms reforms and make recommendations to stop such an attack happening again.

    “The Firearms Minister also has authority over Coronial matters in her role as Courts Minister. The conflicts and questions are now too great for the public to have any confidence that she is the right person to be in charge of gun laws.

    “The Prime Minister must strip her of the firearms portfolio. The Coalition Agreement never required her to hold that position and it would be a display of leadership if he took action,” Ginny Andersen said.

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update – serious crash, Canvastown

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm one person died following a serious single-vehicle crash on SH6 near Canvastown on Friday.

    Emergency services had been called to the scene about 3.20pm.

    Sadly the sole occupant died at the scene.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Unlocking the potential of ethnic businesses

    Source: New Zealand Government

    This week’s inaugural Ethnic Xchange Symposium will explore the role that ethnic communities and businesses can play in rebuilding New Zealand’s economy, Ethnic Communities Minister Melissa Lee says.

    “One of my top priorities as Minister is unlocking the economic potential of New Zealand’s ethnic businesses,” says Ms Lee.

    “Ethnic communities contributed an estimated $64 billion to New Zealand’s economy in 2021. Ethnic communities are also the fastest-growing population group in New Zealand, tripling in size since 1996, and our country’s migrant employment rate is the highest within the OECD.

    “It’s clear that there’s vibrant potential within our ethnic communities. This symposium focuses on unleashing that potential.”

    The symposium, delivered by the Ministry for Ethnic Communities, brings together Government and business, community, and industry experts to discuss how we can supercharge the economy through boosting trade, investment, and innovation.

    In addition to Ms Lee, ministers speaking at the symposium include Finance Minister Nicola Willis; Regulation Minister David Seymour; and Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins KC.

    “Given this Government’s goal of doubling the value of our exports within 10 years, it is fitting that one of the symposium’s core themes is how ethnic businesses may support New Zealand’s trading aspirations, as they bring expertise in navigating overseas markets and international business environments,” says Ms Lee.

    “While their contributions are significant, many ethnic businesses still face challenges such as policy and regulatory barriers, access to finance, and cultural differences. This means they often cannot fully contribute to our economy, although they have the ambition and aspirations to do so.

    “I’m looking forward to the discussions at the symposium as we find solutions to unlock the full potential of ethnic businesses for the benefit of New Zealand.”

    The Ethnic Xchange Symposium is on this Friday, 11 October in Auckland. More information, and tickets, are available at https://ethnicxchange.org.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious crash, State Highway 2, Waipawa

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 2 near Waipawa in Central Hawke’s Bay.

    The single vehicle crash occurred near Argyll Road and was reported to Police at 10.15am.

    Initial information from the scene indicates at least one person is seriously injured.

    The road is closed and motorists are asked to take alternative routes.

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police get the jump on burglars

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A group of alleged burglars who climbed onto the roof of Māngere Town Centre in an attempt to evade Police, will now face court.

    At about 11pm, Police were alerted by security of three males breaking into the Māngere Town Centre.

    Counties Manukau West Acting Area Prevention Manager, Acting Inspector Clint McCarthy, says the trio allegedly broke into five businesses, taking a number of items including clothing and cash registers.

    “Upon Police arrival, we witnessed a group of people climbing onto the roof inside the centre.

    “Units cordoned off the area and voice appealed for the offenders to come down, however one has jumped from the roof and attempted to flee on foot,” Acting Inspector McCarthy says.

    “The Police Dog Unit, Delta has tracked the alleged offender where he was swiftly taken into custody.”

    He says the other two suspects quickly surrendered to Police

    “Police will continue to deploy a range of resources to respond to this sort of offending so that we can hold these people to account.

    “This is a great outcome, and we acknowledge the centre’s security team for reporting offending as it was occurring, which allowed us to respond in a timely manner.”

    He says the stolen property was left on the roof and recovered by staff shortly after.

    Three males, aged 23, 19 and 18, will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with five counts of burglary.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Dunedin state highway update – clean up and damage assessment under way

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is advising motorists to expect delays when using SH88 as contractors investigate the extent of damage from last week’s massive downpour.

    There will be up to 30min delays between 9am and 4pm for the next three days on SH88 at the Parry Street rockfall site due to traffic control in place while contractors do scaling works to make the road safe.

    • Investigations are underway at the Burkes slip on SH88 to understand the extent of the damage to this section of highway. The road is currently under traffic lights stop/go traffic management.
    • Other geotechnical investigations are continuing at various sites on SH88

    NZTA is also advising that SH87, which remains closed because of the flood, is expected to re-open this afternoon with a temporary road surface in place, however further investigations into a permanent fix are required.  

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Taranaki road renewal season to ensure reliable, secure, resilient access for communities

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is ramping up renewal work in Taranaki this 2024/2025 road maintenance season to promote resilient, secure, and reliable access for communities.

    During the course of the 2024/25 maintenance season, which is now underway, it’s anticipated that 32 lane kilometres of state highway in the region will be rebuilt.

    Typically the season runs from October to the end of March – to make the most of the traditionally drier, sunnier, calmer weather – essential to successfully reseal roads.

    “Because summer in Taranaki is busy with lots of different events planned, we’ve started the Taranaki maintenance season early (with the SH3 rebuild at Burgess Park) to get our most impactful work completed prior to the event season,” says Rua Pani, Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations.

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

    “Undertaking a higher number of road rebuilds is a key priority in the region. This is how we improve road conditions long-term,” says Ms Pani.

    These works are underway:

    • State Highway 3 Burgess Park rebuild – Work began on Monday 16 September and is expected to run for approximately 8 weeks. Single lane closures, and a detour will be in place.
    • State Highway 45 Vivian Street – Work is underway to resurface SH45 Vivian Street. Single lane closures, and a detour will be in place.

    These works are coming up:

    • State Highway 45 Powderham Street – Following the Vivian Street work, asphalt repairs will be completed on SH45 Powderham Street between Dawson and Robe Streets. This work will take approximately 3-4 nights to complete under a single lane closure. We will confirm the dates for this work as soon as possible.
    • State Highway 3 Onaero rebuild – From Monday 14 October, crews will be rebuilding two sections of the road over 7 weeks – starting at the intersection with Onaero River Road and then moving to a stretch of state highway between Ohanga and Waiau Roads.

    Both NZTA and New Plymouth District Council (NPDC) will also complete many asphalt reseals on roads this season.

    Most of the asphalt work will be done at night, ensuring shorter construction periods and minimise  disruption to the public and road users.

    Further reseal sites that NZTA will be completing are listed below:

    • SH3 Elliot Street between Pendarves and Courtenay Streets 
    • SH3 Courtenay Street between Elliot and Hobson Streets 
    • Sections of SH3 Northgate between Mangorei and Smart Roads
    • SH3 Devon Road at the intersection of Corbett Road
    • SH44 Molesworth Street between Eliot and Liardet Streets
    • SH45 South Road at Spotswood 

    With the increase in renewal work, road users can expect to encounter a number of roadwork sites and sections of newly sealed road on their journeys.

    “It is important that drivers follow the temporary traffic management in place, adhere to all speed restrictions in place and respect our crews while travelling through the roadworks site.

    “Crews are there to make everyone’s journey safer while traffic management is in place and while our roads are made more resilient and efficient,” says Ms Pani.

    “Speeding over a freshly sealed road can damage the new seal, lifting and flicking stones from the road that can, in turn, damage nearby vehicles or your own. To minimise the risk of damage to both vehicles and the new seal, it is crucial that road users adhere to all temporary speed restrictions in place.

    “We are working hard to minimise the impact of works on road users, but some level of disruption is unavoidable. We appreciate the patience of all road users in Taranaki as we complete this necessary maintenance work on the region’s roads,” says Ms Pani.

    Further information

    More information on works will be shared with stakeholders once confirmed. Locations may be subject to change ahead of work starting on site.

    Please note, the lists above are not complete, and NZTA will continue to communicate with local communities as soon as possible before work begins at various sites.

    To stay up to date on work happening on the local road network, visit the NPDC website(external link).

    For more information about the 2024/2025 road maintenance seasons in Taranaki, visit the NZTA website nzta.govt.nz/taranaki-maintenance.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 7 October 2024 Now we can eat together! Whānau in Tuakau love their newly renovated homes, describing them as being “like brand new”.

    Source: New Zealand Government Kainga Ora

    Kāinga Ora homes in the little town just south of Auckland are amongst the hundreds of older state houses across New Zealand being extensively refurbished as part of our Retrofit Programme. The programme is designed to make our homes warmer, drier and healthier, places that tenants are proud to call home.

    “When we walked in, we were like ‘Wow!’” recalls Eteta. “We already love living in Tuakau because it’s quiet and safe, the kids can walk to school, and I can walk to work. Now the house looks brand new – and we love it!

    Eteta and her partner Alexander are especially happy that their kitchen-dining area has been opened up because now there’s space for the young family to eat together. The bathroom has been reconfigured too, and the home has new windows, doors and a heat pump, making it cosy for winter. In addition, the house has fresh paint, new carpets and improved layouts in the kitchen and bathroom.

    Just along the road from Eteta’s whānau is customer Beverly. She loves her renovated home so much that she wants to buy it.

    “If I won the lottery, I’d buy this house. It’s beautiful now and I’m so proud of it.”

    Beverly’s home, a three-bedroom weatherboard and tile house, dates back to 1983 before open-plan living was popular and it’s been reconfigured to create a more spacious kitchen-dining area.

    “I absolutely love the kitchen; there’s more storage space and it’s very easy to clean. That means a lot to me because I have heart problems and limited mobility.”

    Amazingly, it’s the third time Beverly has lived in this particular house. The first time was when it was new and she was a young mother; the next time was when she returned to the area with older children, and most recently she moved back after the retrofit.

    “All my family’s memories are in this home. We know all our neighbours and we just love it here. I’m so happy about how smart my house looks now.

    “It’s also a big relief to know the power bills will be lower now. We used to bring our mattresses into the lounge at night to save on the heating, but we don’t have to do that anymore. The house is much warmer.”

    Retrofitting includes full insulation, double glazing and improved air tightness, making homes fit for a further 50 years’ use.

    It can be more efficient and sustainable to retrofit rather than build new, making use of existing materials rather than demolishing and building new homes.

    And it supports tenants’ wellbeing by enabling them to stay in their homes and communities, in warmer and drier conditions.

    Beverlys new kitchen is light and spacious

    Page updated: 7 October 2024

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Summer maintenance means smoother and safer journeys for Top of the South Island drivers

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Drivers travelling at the top of the South Island can expect lots of activity this summer as NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi invests in resurfacing and rebuilding the region’s highways.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says it is critical state highways are well-maintained to a reliable standard.

    “This work is about ensuring everyone can use them efficiently, quickly, and safely.”

    Mr Owen says our busy work programme is underway with one project almost complete.

    “It means drivers will see more road crews and work sites when travelling over the next few months.”

    “We will do as much work as possible between now and mid-December, which will mean less impact on holiday travel over the summer break,” Mr Owen says.

    He says this year’s summer maintenance programme will renew just short of 150 lane kilometres on local state highways – slightly more than what was completed last season.

    “This will see around 8,100 tonnes of asphalt and around 100 lane kilometres of chipseal laid by our crews across the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough regions. The result will be safer, smoother journeys for motorists.”

    Most of the work will be done during night closures to minimise disruption and reduce cost through less traffic management.

    Work will also be done at several other smaller sites across the top of the South Island under stop/go traffic management. The public will receive further information before the projects begin.

    Mr Owen says there’s more than just summer maintenance work to do.

    “We have repair work on SH60 Tākaka Hill following a slip in July, proactive resilience projects underway on SH63 and about to begin on SH6 Rai Saddle in Marlborough, and ongoing work to repair the Marlborough Sounds roads.”

    “There are also other ongoing safety improvement projects like the SH6 Tancred Crescent Roundabout at the Marlborough Airport,’ Mr Owen says.

    He says with so much work planned, drivers need to check road conditions before they travel. 

    “Planning ahead and knowing what’s happening on the network can save you time and hassles. Knowing when and where roadworks are happening means you can time your travel to avoid them or allow extra time for your trip.”

    Mr Owen says allowing extra time is essential for people travelling between Christchurch to Picton, and between Blenheim and Nelson.”

    “If you’re traveling to the ferry or for an appointment, we recommend allowing an extra 60 minutes travel time between Christchurch and Picton and an extra 30 minutes if you’re traveling between Nelson and Blenheim.”

    Mr Owen acknowledges that roadworks occur more frequently during spring, summer, and early autumn and affect people’s travel – but there’s a good reason for it.

    “To be effective and durable, road renewals and re-sealing must be done during the warmer, drier months. It can’t be done during winter when the weather is wet and cold.”

    “Whenever you come to a worksite, remember that our road workers are doing their best to complete their work and keep you moving. Please be respectful and follow their advice and instructions,” Mr Owen says.

    Summer Maintenance Schedule – Top of the South Island

    Location

    Month

    Duration of work

    Type of work

    SH6 Gladstone Road, Richmond

    In progress

    2 weeks of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH63 The Wash, Marlborough

    In progress

    8 weeks of daytime stop/go

    Resilience

    SH6 Rai Saddle, Marlborough

    14 October – 22 November

    24/7 stop/go

    Resilience

    SH60 Mariri Causeway, Motueka

    19 October

    1-day closure

    Resurfacing

    SH1 Weld Pass, Marlborough

    20 – 23 October

    4-night closures

    Drainage

    SH6 Canvastown, Marlborough

    November

    3 weeks of Stop/Go

    Rebuilding

    SH6 Tunnicliffe Bridge, Motupiko, Tasman

    October/November

    3 weeks of stop/go followed by 2 weeks of night closures

    Rebuilding

    SH60 Commercial Street, Golden Bay, Tasman

    November

    1 week of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH60 Tākaka Hill, Tasman
    NB: Other work at the underslip site on SH60 Tākaka Hill will also be carried out to repair the road to two lanes before Christmas

    November

    4 weeks including
    3 weeks of night closures + 1 week of day closures)

    Resurfacing (3 weeks)
    Resealing (1 week)

    SH6 Pelorus, Marlborough

    December

    4 weeks of stop/go

    Rebuilding

    SH1 Main Street roundabout, Blenheim 

    January/February

    1 week of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH6 Annesbrook Drive, Tāhunanui, Nelson

    January

    1 week of night closures

    Resurfacing

    SH1 Grovetown, Marlborough

    February

    3 weeks including night closures and stop/go

    Rebuilding

    SH6 Whangamoa

    February

    2 to 3 weeks of night closures

    Resurfacing, drainage, other general maintenance i.e. guardrails, signage

    SH6 Havelock, Marlborough

    February

    1 week of night closures or stop/go at the same time as the SH6 Whangamoa night closure to maximise efficiency

    Resurfacing

    SH1 Weld Pass, Marlborough

    February

    2 weeks of night closures

    Resurfacing and other general maintenance i.e guardrails, signage

    SH1 South of Riverlands/Co-op Drain

    February

    2 weeks of stop/go

    Rebuilding

    SH1 South of Seddon/Taimate

    February/March

    3 weeks of stop/go

    Rebuilding

    Note: The works in the table above may change due to weather and other unforeseen circumstances.

    Summer Maintenance Programme – additional information

    • Key holiday periods are kept free of roadworks to help ease the pressure on peak travel times. 
    • More information about our summer maintenance work can be found on our website
    • Further details about  planned National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) 2024-27 investment for the top of the South Island are also available online 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 6 closed near Canvastown due to serious crash (SH6 is now open)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    9 pm:
    State Highway 6 has reopened.

    Drivers may experience delays until queued traffic clears and should take extra care while driving through the crash site.

    6:55 pm:
    State Highway 6 remains closed to traffic near Havelock this evening following a serious crash this afternoon.

    A crash scene investigation is continuing, and the vehicle involved is still to be recovered and removed.

    The highway is not expected to reopen until later tonight.

    Drivers travelling between Nelson and Blenheim should continue to detour via State Highway 63 Wairau Valley and Kawatiri Junction.

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

    4:20 pm:

    People driving between Blenheim and Nelson can expect delays this afternoon as emergency services attend a serious crash on State Highway 6 east of Canvastown.

    The crash was reported around 3.20 pm. Emergency services are at the scene, and road contractors are also attending.

    State Highway 6 is closed in both directions and there are no suitable local road detours available.

    Drivers are asked to avoid the area or delay their travel.

    The only suitable detour route for people travelling between Nelson and Blenheim is via State Highway 63 Wairau Valley and Kawatiri Junction. This will add 30 minutes or more to travel times between Blenheim and Nelson.

    The highway is expected to remain closed until the Police Serious Crash Unit complete an investigation. This is likely to take several hours.

    Further updates will be provided when the highway’s status changes. Details can also be checked on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: State Highway 58 to partially close briefly for crash site clearance (SH58 OPEN IN BOTH DIRECTIONS)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    1:20 pm:

    State Highway 58 has now reopened to eastbound traffic. Drivers may experience delays as queued traffic clears

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi and the Wellington Transport Alliance thank drivers for their patience and cooperation while road crews worked to clear the crash site and reopen the highway.

    12:20 pm:

    Drivers are asked to avoid State Highway 58 between the Hutt Valley and Pāuatahanui as contractors clear a crash scene.

    The highway will be closed for eastbound traffic from 12:30 this afternoon for around 30 minutes.

    Drivers should avoid the area, delay their travel, or consider an alternate route.

    The crash, involving a car versus median barrier, was reported shortly before 11 this morning and partially blocked the highway’s westbound lanes.

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

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: A big season ahead for Wairarapa – Lower North Island State Highway summer maintenance season

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    State Highway 2 Wairarapa will be a major focus for road repairs and rehabilitation in the Wellington region this coming summer maintenance season.

    Over the next three years of the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), the region has $162 million allocated for state highway maintenance and another $116 million ringfenced for state highway pothole prevention – a total investment of $278 million.

    Mark Owen, Regional Manager – Lower North Island/Top of the South, says the funding is integral to the work planned for this coming summer.

    “Road crews will carry out 15 lane km of chipsealing, 40 lane km of asphalt resurfacing, and four lane km of road rebuilding across the region from spring to autumn.”

    “This season we are focusing on more road rebuilding in an effort to improve overall network condition through more intensive treatments, increasing pavement quality,” Mr Owen says.

    He confirms significant work is planned for Wairarapa.

    “We’ll be making a huge investment in rebuilding areas of the state highway that most need repair. This includes sections in Greytown, Carterton and Masterton.”

    “The planned work will result in stronger highways that need fewer repairs and less maintenance. The highways will be resilient, less susceptible to potholes, and will only need occasional resurfacing work for the next 25 years,” Mr Owen says.

    Wellington/ Wairarapa – Summer Maintenance Programme

    Location

    Date

    SH1 Raumati Straights

    November 2024

    SH2 Greytown

    April 2025

    SH2 Solway (Masterton)

    Date to be confirmed 2025

    SH2 Carterton

    May 2025

    SH2 Featherston         

    May 2025

    SH2 Masterton to Carterton maintenance

    Ongoing

    (Timing is indicative, more details will be provided before works begin)

     

    View larger map [PDF, 370 KB]

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi and the Wellington Transport Alliance will work closely with local councils on the timing of these works. The aim is to align our projects with theirs to minimise disruption for communities. Where possible, full closures will be used to complete work quickly and efficiently with more cost-effective traffic management.

    Mr Owen says it does mean there will be road works, detours, and delays for Wairarapa drivers over the coming months, and disruption for residents and businesses near road rebuilding worksites.

    “We do understand that people find road work delays frustrating. However, this investment is about providing better highways that require fewer repairs. Doing this work now secures a better future for all road users.”

    More information

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Motorists urged to drive with caution this morning over Harbour Bridge

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    |

    Aucklanders are urged to drive with extra caution this morning with heavy winds predicted between 8am and 1pm today (Monday 7 October).

    The bridge currently remains in a 4×4 configuration.

    Motorists are urged to drive to the conditions and look out for the electronic message boards which will indicate lane closures and reduced speeds, and stay within their lane while travelling across the bridge. 

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

    NZTA thanks road users for their patience and understanding.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Serious crash at Tuamarina – expect travel delays on State Highway 1 (SH1 OPEN IN BOTH DIRECTIONS)

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    3:25 pm:

    State Highway 1 is now open in both directions under a 30 km/h temporary speed limit at the crash site. Drivers may experience delays while travelling through the area

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi thanks drivers for their patience and cooperation today while  emergency services and contractors attended this incident.

    1:50 pm:

    State Highway 1 is currently under stop/stop traffic controls while the crashed vehicle is recovered. This affects both north and southbound traffic

    Traffic delays can be expected for approximately an hour between Picton and Springfield while this work is completed.

    Drivers should delay their travel and avoid the area.

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

    12:02 pm:

    State Highway 1 is now open in both directions following a serious crash at the intersection of Bush Road earlier today

    A car crashed off the road into the Tuamarina River shortly before two am this morning.

    The highway was restricted to one lane under stop/go traffic controls while the Police Serious Crash Unit carried out a scene investigation

    While the highway is now open to traffic, it is expected to be closed briefly later today for recovery operations.

    Updates on the highway’s status can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website. NZ Police are also issuing media releases:

    6:55 am:

    State Highway 1 is under stop/go traffic management near Tuamarina following a serious crash early this morning.

    The crash, which occurred on Bush Road at the intersection with State Highway 1, was reported around two am this morning.

    State Highway 1 is currently closed to northbound traffic near the intersection of Bush Road and under stop/go traffic control while Police and emergency services attend the incident.

    Drivers can expect delays when travelling through the area. Please take extra care when travelling past the crash site and follow all instructions from emergency services.

    A full closure of State Highway 1 is possible later this morning to support ongoing crash scene investigations.

    People travelling between Picton and Blenheim, particularly those with ferry connections, should allow extra time for their journeys.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand marks anniversary of 7 October

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Winston Peters are renewing New Zealand’s calls for restraint and de-escalation, on the first anniversary of the 7 October terrorist attacks on Israel.

    “New Zealand was horrified by the monstrous actions of Hamas against Israel a year ago today,” Mr Luxon says.

    “Then, as now, we remain appalled by Hamas’ brutality and the taking of hostages.”

    “Hamas’ terrorist attack set in motion an absolutely unacceptable cycle of violence and human suffering,” Mr Peters says.

    “We continue to reiterate that a ceasefire, endorsed by the United Nations Security Council, is the best way to protect civilians on all sides.

    “New Zealand also renews its call for the immediate and unconditional release of all remaining hostages by Hamas.”

    “New Zealand remains concerned by the escalating hostilities across the Middle East”, Mr Luxon says.

    “We again call for restraint, the protection of civilians, and the upholding of international humanitarian law by all parties.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –