NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Haiti’s class sizes double as mental health crisis worsens among students – Save the Children

    Source: Save The Children

    PORT-AU-PRINCE, 26 September 2024 – Haiti’s ongoing violence is set to force thousands of children into overcrowded classrooms when schools reopen next week, with some classes expected to double to 80 students while hundreds of schools remain closed, Save the Children said.

    The Haitian government delayed the start of the academic year until 1 October due to the ongoing threat from armed groups, which has displaced about 600,000 people this year – or about 5% of the population. Over the past school year, more than 900 schools temporarily closed, affecting about 200,000 children’s access to education. Many of these schools will likely remain closed next week as they are being used as shelters for displaced families.

    In Haiti’s South Department, an influx of displaced families fleeing violence in Port-au-Prince has severely strained an already fragile education system. Save the Children’s local partners in Les Cayes report that internally displaced children will push class sizes to upwards of 80 students—more than double the recommended class size.

    Maria Rosette, a school director supported by Save the Children’s local partner ProDev, highlighted the challenges of providing quality education in such overcrowded conditions. 

    She also noted the psychological impact on displaced students, due to their distressing experiences. Parents and teachers have reported an increase in aggression, withdrawal, and emotional distress among students due to prolonged exposure to armed violence, hunger, and uncertainty. 

    “What the children should be receiving in terms of quality education they won’t get  because there are too many students. Children at the back of the class always tend to suffer the most; they get distracted easily. 

    “Also, one of the first things I noticed [towards the end of the last academic year] was the mental health and psychosocial support issues that need to be addressed among displaced students. Displaced children witnessed so much when they were in Port-au-Prince, they now suffer from stress and anguish. They are extremely aggressive; they fight and throw rocks at each other – the new arrivals and local children. Many children are not motivated at school. Still, hopefully, as time goes on, they will be more receptive to continuing their education and be able to address and cope with the issues they face.” 

    As schools begin to reopen, families still face significant challenges in sending their children back into classrooms. Ongoing violence and soaring inflation have impacted families’ ability to afford basic school supplies for their children. Also, some schools that have been used as shelters require extensive cleanup and repairs before they can fully resume educational activities. 

    For children living in areas with active fighting in Port-au-Prince, starting the new school year next week may not be possible, even if schools reopen. The journey to school in armed group-controlled areas poses significant risks, including being caught in the crossfire and the threat of recruitment into these groups.

    Chantal Sylvie Imbeault, Save the Children’s Country Director in Haiti, said: 

    “The crisis in Haiti is, above all, a children’s crisis. Hundreds of thousands of children have been displaced, robbed of their education, and deeply affected by the violence unfolding before their eyes. 

    “In Port-au-Prince, access to education is severely limited due to school closure in areas controlled by armed groups, attacks on schools, displacement, and widespread violence. Many children can’t safely get to school because of the violence surrounding their communities. This means they likely won’t be returning at all to school next week if armed groups continue to wreak havoc across the city.

    “A lack of education, overcrowded classrooms, and a growing mental health emergency is threatening to devastate an entire generation—a generation who has already lived through deadly earthquakes, hurricanes, and waves of relentless violence. For many children in Haiti, education is their only hope in an increasingly uncertain world. But that hope is slipping away.”

    Save the Children is providing cash assistance for displaced families in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince living in schools-turned-shelters to find more dignified housing solutions while helping to free up schools to resume educational activities. The child rights organisation is also working through local partners in Haiti’s West, Grand’Anse and South departments, including in Les Cayes, to provide access to quality education, and psychosocial support to students who need it, while calling for more funding to provide mental health support for children who have been exposed to violence.

    Save the Children is calling on the international community to support the government of Haiti in prioritising the reopening of schools while ensuring displaced families currently sheltering in classrooms can afford safe, alternative shelter, and teachers are paid on time.

    Save the Children has been working in Haiti since 1978 in both urban and rural communities. It provides cash assistance so families can meet their most urgent needs, delivers health and nutrition support, and supports children´s access to quality education.

    ENDS

    *******************************************************************************************************************

    For further enquiries please contact:

    Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409

    Please also check our Twitter account @Save_GlobalNews for news alerts, quotes, statements and location Vlogs.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Peace Action Wellington – New Zealand Foreign Minister must be clear at United Nations

    SOURCE: Peace Action Wellington

    26 September 2024 – Foreign Minister Winston Peters is due to give his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Friday morning in New York outlining the government’s views on the state of world affairs.

    “New Zealanders expect that the Foreign Minister will be absolutely clear in his remarks that Israel’s illegal occupation and genocide will no longer be tolerated. He must be clear that Israel’s attacks on Lebanon must cease immediately,” said Valerie Morse, spokesperson for Peace Action Wellington.

    “We applaud the recent courageous Aotearoa New Zealand vote for a UN resolution calling on Israel to end its unlawful presence in the occupied territories. However, these symbolic resolutions must be backed up by real material actions.”

    “Like the actions taken to stop Russia, Israel must be subjected to sanctions and commercial trade embargos to drain it of the resources to continue its genocide of Palestinian people and its provocation of war in Lebanon.”

    “This session of the United Nations is critically important for Aotearoa New Zealand because the world is at a crossroads: international law is being thrown away in favour of hard power politics. That does not serve the interests of small countries like Aotearoa New Zealand. It is harmful for human rights and fundamental freedoms.”

    “The Foreign Minister must be clear that Aotearoa New Zealand will be a force for upholding international law no matter who is involved. Siding with a genocidal regime involved in mass human rights abuses is not the hallmark of a free and democratic society. That the other Five Eyes countries continue to support Israel shows the moral bankruptcy of their claims to care about rights and seriously undermines their credibility on the world stage.”

    “Since October, the world has seen the face of Zionist terrorism exposed in its full horror. There is no going back to the false narratives and double-standards that have upheld Israel since 1948. The UN must act decisively to end the genocide and occupation, and to stop a wider war. Aotearoa New Zealand must be on the right side of history.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Education – Cautionary Tale – “Learning on the job” – The Northland Transpower transmission tower – QPEC

    Quality Public Education Coalition (QPEC)
     
    RNZ reports  that Transpower did not follow standard practice and did not provide sufficient training on the job (Midday Report, Wed 25 Sep),
     
    There is a disturbing parallel currently taking place in vocational education.   Learning on the job is the. mantra of Te Pūkenga, the umbrella organisation of polytechnics and ITOs.  
     
    Te Pūkenga relies heavily on shipping students out to work-sites, for industry and businesses to “train” the learners.   There is a real question whether such enterprises have the time, interest and ability to train novices properly.  
     
    But a major issue confronting learning on the job is that trades and professions are becoming increasingly complex, and the world is becoming more demanding and threatening – climate change, new technologies, AI, ethical issues, pressure on resources, coercive employment practices, corporatising.   
     
    Staff in the polytechnics insist that there simply has to be intensive, comprehensive and thorough education off-site.  
     
    It’s not that staff don’t want on-site experience for their students.   They have always supported practicums and practical experience as in nursing, house construction, engineering, health technology. 
     
     But they want to avoid proposals like this story from a QPEC Forum in June 2021.   A polytechnic lecturer reports a question from an industry contact:  
     
    Why are you teaching your students everything about plumbing – hot water, fluid pressure, all that?   All we need is for our students to join pipes, because that’s our main activity, as the biggest employer. 
    The staff member is adamant that students need far-sighted, comprehensive education in their trades and professions, as a base for life-long learning.   
     
    Providing vocational education
     
    The Transpower issue raises two problems.  
     
    One, learning on the job is not infallible.   Transpower apparently delegated job learning to Omoxon, who did not carry it out.   Transpower then played Blame-the-Contractor, to try to avoid the public outcry. 
     
    The pylon toppling cost millions and Transpower’s failure suggests that business can’t be the vehicle for reliable job preparation.   That lies outside the primary task of running a business or industry, and points to the second issue.  
    To serve the best interests of vocational education, we must avoid short cuts like relying heavily on work-based learning.   Instead, we need to insist on the importance of polytechnics for off-site, institutional education., integrated with work experience.
     
    That means providing well-designed programmes in polytechnics that are very stable. richly resourced and feature well-supported, professional educators – the teaching staff.   
    David Cooke, National Chair, QPEC

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Employment Disputes – Public petition for full funding launched as St John ambos kick off next national strikes – First Union

    Source: First Union

    WHAT: FIRST Union ambulance officers who work for Hato Hone St John across the country will commence their next withdrawal of labour tomorrow (Friday 27th September) and Monday (30th) while launching a public petition for the full Government funding of New Zealand’s ambulance services.
    Striking ambulance officers will be collecting signatures for the petition tomorrow at public locations across the country, with media invited to attend the Auckland collection event.
    WHEN / WHERE:
    Withdrawal of labour: (1) effective from 04:00am on 27 September 2024 for the first 6 hours of employees’ rostered shifts until 04:00am on 28 September 2024; and (2) from 04:00am on 30 September 2024 for the first 6 hours of employees’ rostered shifts until 04:00am on 1 October 2024
    Petition signature collection event: 10:00-11:00 on Friday 27 September 2024 outside the train station at Britomart, Auckland (media are welcome to attend)
    Faye McCann, FIRST Union national ambulance coordinator, said that Aotearoa’s ambulance services are too important to be relying on charity funding and the time had come for politicians to step up and fund Hato Hone St John and Wellington Free Ambulance for 100% of operating costs.
    “Strike actions like these are the last resort after what has now been 10 months of unsuccessful bargaining with St John,” said Ms McCann.
    “We can’t keep ending up in these prolonged, zero-sum negotiations with health employers who are not adequately funded by Government to ensure ambulance officers are fairly paid or that patient needs are being met in our communities.”
    “We were really disappointed that our effective cooperation with other non-affiliated unions has come to a sudden stop following revelations that NZAA and AWUNZ leadership have done a 180 and decided to ratify the latest pay offer from St John on behalf of members.”
    NZAA (New Zealand Ambulance Association) are a division of the Amalgamated Workers of New Zealand (AWUNZ), and are not affiliated to the Council of Trade Unions.
    “We’d agreed collectively in writing that we would not recommend ratification of such a poor offer to our members and were shocked and blindsided when St John confirmed that the NZAA/AWUNZ leadership team had ratified the deal based on a reported ballot of their members,” said Ms McCann.
    “Our door is open to ambulance officers who aren’t satisfied with a pay offer below the rising cost of living that does not deal with other substantive claims about pay and conditions.”
    Ms McCann said that launching a public petition for full funding of ambulance services was a way of showing “head in the sand” politicians like Shane Reti and Casey Costello that the status quo was no longer tenable for ambulance services or the people who work for them.
    “We know there’s massive public backing for functional emergency health services that don’t rely on charity donations to meet their operating costs,” said Ms McCann.
    “We’re confident that New Zealanders will support ambulance officers in seeking full funding from Government that meets the promises set out in coalition agreements following the election.”
    BACKGROUND INFORMATION
    Life Preserving Services agreement: FIRST Union are working cooperatively with St John to ensure that a minimum critical service level is available during strike action, as is required by law.
    Membership: There are over 1,100 FIRST Union members at St John, and an estimated 300-400 members were rostered to work on 27 and 30 September and are thus able to take part in the withdrawals of labour. Un-rostered staff have been invited to take part in petition signature collecting events on their days off.
    Voting: Over 92% of FIRST Union members at St John voted in favour of this second withdrawal of labour, with over 85% voting to reject ratification of St John’s pay offer to members.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Associate Minister’s school attendance statement perplexing

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    A statement from the Associate Minister of Education today, about school attendance and when schools are open or closed for instruction, is a little perplexing, says Chris Abercrombie, PPTA Te Wehengarua president.

    Last modified on Thursday, 26 September 2024 18:18

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Clubs and Ranges Bill passes first reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Improvements to the way shooting clubs and ranges are regulated are on the way with the Arms (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges and Other Matters) Amendment Bill passing its first reading says Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee.

    “The package of reforms in this Bill will enable simple and effective regulation of pistol and non-pistol shooting clubs and ranges, with a focus on public safety.

    “Our clubs and ranges provide a safe environment for New Zealanders to learn, practise, and compete.  Changes imposed in 2020 went beyond what was necessary to keep the public safe and instead jeopardised the future of some ranges.

    “We promised New Zealanders they would be able to have their say on our firearms reforms and with the Arms (Shooting Clubs, Shooting Ranges and Other Matters) Amendment Bill going to select committee, people now have that opportunity.

    The Bill will:

    • maintain the regulatory requirements for pistol clubs and ranges but streamline annual reporting requirements;
    • simplify the regulatory requirements for non-pistol clubs and ranges by replacing the approval and certification systems with a more effective enrolment system; 
    • require non-pistol clubs to be incorporated only if they sell ammunition, unless all ammunition sold by the club is purchased for, and used, on the day of sale at the club range or event and is not taken off the premises;
    • support the operation of temporary non-pistol ranges to enable the holding of club events, as long as the Firearms Safety Authority is informed; and
    • provide certainty about when inspections for compliance can occur and clarify what can be removed when an inspection is conducted, to reduce the burden on operators.

    “Firearms reform is a priority for the Government and today’s announcement delivers on a commitment made in the National-ACT coalition agreement.

    “I encourage everyone to have their say through the select committee process.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Cuts to te reo Māori programme disappointing and short-sighted

    Source: Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA)

    The Education Minister’s decision to axe a te reo Māori teacher professional development programme and use the funds for new primary school Mathematics workbooks is extremely disappointing, concerning and short-sighted, says Chris Abercrombie, PPTA Te Wehengarua president.

    Last modified on Thursday, 26 September 2024 18:11

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Export Sector – 2024 ExportNZ DHL Barometer reveals challenges and opportunities in the Business Central region

    Source: Business Central

    2024 ExportNZ DHL Barometer reveals challenges and opportunities in the Business Central region
    The 2024 ExportNZ DHL Barometer, released this week, reveals challenges and opportunities for exporters in the Business Central region, alongside suggestions to boost export growth.
    This year’s survey shows signs of optimism, despite challenging conditions at home and abroad.
    Business Central CEO Simon Arcus says: “These results prove what we know already – exporters in our region are exceptionally resilient, managing to grow export earnings despite the challenges of a sluggish economy and the damage of Cyclone Gabrielle.”
    “I acknowledge the really difficult time that Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne faced in the recent past. It’s a credit to the hard work of businesses in our region that more than half expect their orders to grow,” says Arcus.
    Business Central represents exporters across the lower North Island and Nelson-Tasman through our network partner, ExportNZ. Businesses in the region contribute significantly to New Zealand’s export earnings, primarily through manufacturing and agriculture.
    39% of exporters in the region saw orders increase in the last 12 months. 28% saw a decrease, while 28% saw them stay the same.
    Encouragingly, 54% of businesses expect export orders to increase in the next 12 months.
    But the survey reveals significant cost pressures are restraining export earnings. 78% of respondents saw costs increase in the past 12 months, with the cost of transport and logistics and the price of doing business in New Zealand cited as the biggest barriers to growth.
    There are a number of opportunities to boost exporters through enhanced government support. 43% of respondents in the Business Central region highlighted support for attending trade shows as an opportunity to export more, while 33% cited better access to market research. 29% called for new free trade agreements and better access to R&D.
    Business Central also welcomes the announcement of a new free trade agreement between New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates, which was signed today. 24% of firms in the Business Central region export to the Middle East.
    Joshua Tan, ExportNZ Executive Director, praised the industry’s response to the volatile economic and exporting environment.
    “The current operating environment is difficult to navigate, with persistent challenges connected with the rising cost of doing business. Despite the many challenges, exporters have expressed optimism and confidence in future growth through the survey, which is very encouraging.
    “Given the Government’s goal to double export value within ten years, there are areas where Government support would be valued by exporters – support to help them grow their businesses here in New Zealand and leverage market opportunities overseas,” says Tan.
    Business Central delivers and supports ExportNZ in the Hawke’s Bay and wider Central New Zealand region. It represents 3,500 employers and exporters across the lower North Island, providing advice, training, support, and advocates for policies that reflect the interests of the business community.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Want to make a difference? Go to school

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Students should be in school and learning instead of protesting during school hours, Associate Education Minister David Seymour says in response to the school climate strike planned for Friday 27th September.

    “If students feel strongly about sending a message, they could have waited until Monday, when the end of term holidays begin and there is no school for two weeks. It has become far too common to sacrifice valuable learning time for other causes,” says Mr Seymour.     

    “The previous government said that protesting instead of attending school could be justified. This in my view is unacceptable. My expectation is that schools will treat students protesting today as explained but unjustified absences. 

    “I appreciate that some students have passionate views and are anxious about their futures. To that effect I want to be clear, if they want to make real change in the world, they need to turn up to school and get a good education now. 

    “New Zealand attendance rates are low by national and international standards. In 2023, 80.6% of students in England and 61.6% of students in Australia were attending using a measure similar to the Term 2 New Zealand regular attendance rate, which was only 47.1%.   

    “Today I announced the introduction of the Stepped Attendance Response (STAR) system. The STAR system will help the government to reach its goal of 80% of students attending class 90% of the time by 2030.  

    “The idea of the STAR system is that no child will be left behind. To achieve this, any student who reaches a clearly defined threshold of days absent will trigger an appropriate and proportionate response from their school and the Ministry, targeted at returning them to the classroom.  

    “I encourage students, parents, and educators to prioritise education. That is what this Government is doing, and it is what is required for New Zealand to have a better future.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: TPM issues warning to Govt: Back down or prepare for the wrath of the million Māori

    Source: Te Pati Maori

    Today the government announced a $30m cut to Te Ahu o Te Reo Māori- a programme that develops te reo Māori among our kaiako.

    “This announcement is just the latest in an onslaught of attacks on te iwi Māori,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Rawiri Waititi.

    “This is what the new wave of colonisation looks like:

    • Demolishing Te Aka Whai Ora.
    • Throwing out Smokefree Targets- sentencing more Māori to premature death.
    • Sidestepping Te Tiriti with the fast-track bill.
    • Repealing section 7aa of the Oranga Tamariki Act – stealing our mokopuna.
    • Confiscating our coastlines with their Marine and Coastal Area Amendments.
    • Extracting oil and gas from our Moana.
    • Cutting $300 million of targeted Māori funding.
    • Cutting Matariki funding.
    • Rejecting the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
    • Defunding section 27 reports.
    • Restoring Three Strikes.
    • Building Mega-Prisons.
    • Resurrecting youth bootcamps.
    • Removing Te Mana o Te Wai obligations.
    • Ignoring the Waitangi Tribunal Recommendations and High Court Rulings.
    Setting in motion a wave of anti-Māori sentiment by giving life to the Treaty Principles Bill.

    “The government are playing with fire, and they must back down. Our people are too invested in our mokopuna and our whenua to let this ethnocide occur right in front of our eyes,” said Waititi.

    “Te iwi Māori, tangata Tiriti, and tangata Moana are all preparing to activate because we all believe in a Tiriti-centric Aotearoa that values the protection of our mokopuna, our whenua, and our taiao,” said Te Pāti Māori Co-Leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer.

    We will back the will of our people. We will support their intentions and their activations in all the ways we can.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name Release, Arrowsmith Range Avalanche

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are now able to release the name of the man who died after being recovered from an avalanche on the Arrowsmith Range on Wednesday 25 September.

    He was 38-year-old Brett Evans, of Staveley, Ashburton District. Police’s thoughts remain with his loved ones.

    Police inquiries are continuing into the death on behalf of the Coroner.

    WorkSafe has also been notified.

    ENDS

    Note to media: Family have requested privacy from the media at this difficult time. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Dunedin Hospital d-listed by Government

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The non-announcement in Dunedin today had Ministers leaving broken promises and a likely severely diluted hospital build in their wake.

    “The Government’s attempt to placate the people of Dunedin has fallen short. Instead of flying down to announce they’d build the planned hospital, they’ve spent a bunch of money on another review that won’t mean any more hospital beds,” Tracey McLellan said.

    “Under National, the Dunedin Hospital plans are a sterling disappointment. The project, which Labour began and funded, has been downgraded despite silver-tongued promises National made to get into Government.

    “Labour’s fully costed project had the budget allocated to pay for it, was bigger, and had additional capacity for mental health and MRI facilities. National are potentially content with simply giving the old building a makeover.

    “While Health Minister Shane Reti mucks around value managing and adding a new review to a project that has already undergone several, the costs go up, consultants stand around waiting, and the credibility of National to deliver the hospital goes down.

    “The ministers’ attempts to pit the region against the rest of the country when it is the Government’s own fault health is not funded adequately was in poor taste today.

    “Our regions shouldn’t have to compete with each other for decent health services. The choice for the government was measly tax cuts and a $2.9 billion tax break for landlords over health.

    “There are 20 projects on a national red list which are without adequate funding according to media reports today. The Dunedin region is the first, but communities, cities and towns nationwide will go without healthcare facilities because of National,” Tracey McLellan said.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Eight ways to make the school holidays magical for the whole family!

    Source: Auckland Council

    School holidays are just around the corner, and with them come a vast array of options to keep the whānau entertained for the duration of the break. 

    From outdoor adventures to exploring your local maunga; indoor fun with roller skating to rock climbing, and even hydro sliding – there’s something for everyone. Have a look at the list below to get yourself inspired and ready for an active holiday with your tamariki – brought to you by Auckland Council. 

    1. Check out the Auckland Heritage Festival

    Explore Pacific ties at the Auckland Heritage Festival, which runs from 28 September to 13 October, with the theme of Moana Oceania – over130 free or low-cost events! Returning for its 20th year, the two-week festival includes talks, walks, exhibitions, performances, and workshops right across Tāmaki Makaurau – explore and commemorate the region’s Pacific history and heritage with friends and whānau.  

    Visit Auckland Heritage Festival for the full programme.  

    Event highlights include: 

    Exploring the King of Tonga’s Trees at Atalanga 

    Learn about the unique history and value of some of Auckland’s finest trees in their historic settings on The Tree Council’s guided walking tour of Atalanga, the King of Tonga’s Auckland Residence in Epsom.  

    Tongan Indigenous Knowledge Showcase 

    Our elderly Tongans possess a wealth of Tongan indigenous knowledge, and Fe’unukoula – Academy of Tongan Arts, Dance and Culture – would like to honour the uniqueness of these skills and knowledge in the Heritage Festival. Fe’unukoula Director Losalia Pusiaki Fifita leads a showcase explaining different types of attire worn by Tongan people. Visit our Tongan village and join in to learn about the skills of making table mats, wall hangings, laundry baskets, beautiful and colourful leis, the art of mat weaving and sinnet braiding, Tongan dancing and lots more. 

    Guided Pasifika Heritage Walk of Ponsonby 

    Take a stroll with charismatic Samoan street historian Reverend Mua Strickson-Pua along Ponsonby Road and discover the Pacific urban history and stories of Ponsonby. Hear about Pacific urban migration, dawn raids on overstayers, the Springbok Tour protest, the Polynesian Panthers, and much more. 

    Tuia Mātauranga: The Ocean That Binds Us Together 

    Uncover the rich voyaging traditions and cultures of Moana Oceania – the Pacific Ocean. Embark on a journey with storytellers Sonny Natanielu and Tony Marsters as they take you through the extraordinary achievements of the Pacific voyagers, highlighting their mātauranga, innovation and navigation prowess across the vast Pacific Ocean. Immerse yourself in the Tuia exhibition, delving into the tapestry of our migration history and settlement, prompting reflection on Aotearoa today and our collective aspirations for the future. 

    Fakafetuiaga 

    Reminisce and celebrate our beautiful Niue! Niue celebrates its 50th anniversary of self-governing, highlighting its relationship with Aotearoa. The island is commonly referred to as ‘The Rock’ of Polynesia, and it was European sailor Captain Cook who coined the famous phrase ‘Savage Islands’. Through historical imagery, we explore the timeless stories of Niue, the memories and identity that grounds our Niuean communities here in Aotearoa and abroad. 

    Sustainable Conservation of Pacific Art and Heritage 

    The team at Studio Izzo talk about their experiences working with Pacific artists on their artworks and more. As part of its everyday activities, Studio Izzo receives many items including those from public art galleries and communities. The talk explores some of these items, their meanings, and sustainable conservation methods for Pacific treasures. You are welcome to bring your own objects to discuss – the team is keen for questions about your treasures! 

    2. Tūpuna Maunga – explore your maunga

    Join a guided hīkoi on one of your local maunga. Choose from three specially selected sites to gather, honour, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Tūpuna Maunga (ancestral mountains) of Tāmaki Makaurau. This culturally enriching experience is open to everyone—register now through our Love Your Maunga Facebook page to secure your spot! 

    Te Pane o Mataoho / Te Ara Pueru / Māngere Mountain  

    • Friday, 4 October and Friday, 11 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am  
    • Hosted by Māngere Mountain Education Centre 

    Maungauika / North Head  

    • Friday, 4 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am 
    • Hosted by Explore Tāmaki  

    Maungarei / Mount Wellington  

    • Friday, 11 October, 9.30 am – 11.30 am 
    • Hosted by Explore Tāmaki 

    3. Head to your local library

    Our libraries are always buzzing with activity, but even more so during school holidays! For a list of what’s on at your local library, check out the Auckland Council Libraries school holiday event listings. You can also visit your local libraries Facebook page for more info. 

    A few examples of the types of activities you can expect include author readings, art events, even live performances: 

    Author Readings: 

    Whangaparāoa Library

    • Tuesday 1 October, 10.30am
    •  Nicky Gumbrell will be in to read her adorable book “Mr. Bingley is Different” and she will be bringing some very special guests… the REAL DOGS who inspired the book, Mr Bingley and Manny! 

    PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THERE WILL BE DOGS IN ATTENDANCE. 

    Titirangi Library 

    • Friday 4 October, 10.30am – 11.30am 
    • ‘The Squeakling’ Storytime with local illustrator, Ronja Schipper and author, Kristin Kelly. Join us for the launch of ‘The Squeakling’! Illustrator, Ronja Schipper, and author, Kristin Kelly will have a special reading of their new book followed by an opportunity to ask questions and learn about their creative processes. Suitable for the whole whanau! 

    Art events: 

    Northcote Library 

    Pakuranga Library 

    Live Performances: 

    Warkworth Library 

    Blockhouse Bay Library 

    4. Learn to swim

    Dive right in for some swimming lessons at select swim schools – for adults and kids alike! Our Pool and Leisure teams are offering intensive swim lesson blocks that you can book for one or two weeks, with a lesson each day. By attending daily and building on the progress from the previous session, you’ll be able to boost your confidence and improve your swimming skills significantly.  

    Swim lessons available over school holidays at: 

    • Albany Stadium Pool 
    • WestWave Pools and Leisure 
    • Takapuna Pools and Leisure 
    • Tepid Baths 
    • Manurewa Pools and Leisure 
    • Glenfield Pools and Leisure 

    5. More indoor fun

    Become a gymnast with Tristar Gymnastics! Their holiday programme has something on offer every weekday, including tumbling, rhythmic, tramp or parkour to ensure an action-packed holiday break.

    Other fun activities to try during the break include: 

    6. Discover the great outdoors

    Tāmaki Makaurau has a great variety of parks and reserves right across the region – that’s 28 regional parks, to be exact! For those keen on an outdoor adventure walk over the school holidays, here’s a few to choose from: 

    Whakanewha Forest Path  (80 mins) 

    Enjoy unique forests, a stunning beach, native bird song and scenic views on your next Waiheke trip.  

    Mahurangi West– Cudlip Point Path (90 mins) 

    A great stop if you’re exploring North Auckland. You’ll find sheltered bays, native bush, open pasture and historic sites.  

    Auckland Botanic Gardens (90 mins)  

    A must do any day in South Auckland and it’s dog friendly! 

    Ōmana Perimeter Walk (60 mins) 

    An ideal family park in East Auckland, with a shelly beach, shady pōhutukawa and outstanding views.  

    Montana Trail – Cascade Kauri  (4.5 hours return loop) 

    Head west for this walk and back in time, through some of the Waitakere ranges’ oldest and most precious stands of kauri.

    7. Book an Auckland Council holiday park

    Consider an affordable holiday escape with the whānau, right here in Tāmaki Makaurau. Bookings are available at any one of Auckland Council’s three holiday parks: Ōrewa Beach Holiday Park, Martins Bay Holiday Park and Whangateau Holiday Park – and for a lot less than a trip to Fiji! 

    All Auckland Council holiday parks have a wide range of accommodation options and facilities to suit your needs. There’s also plenty of extra in and around each holiday park to keep everyone entertained for the duration of your stay. 

    8. Add some sparkle with Vector Lights

    Light up your weekends with Vector Lights Celebrating Auckland. Enjoy a stunning light and sound show celebrating Tāmaki Makaurau every Friday and Saturday night from 8pm until midnight, playing every 15 minutes.  

    Get your friends and whānau together, head to one of the prime viewing spots and listen live at vector.co.nz/lights. Some of the best places to see the shows are: 

    • Westhaven Marina 
    • Silo Park 
    • The end of Halsey Wharf (just out from the Viaduct Events Centre) 
    • The end of Princes Wharf (outside the Hilton Auckland hotel) 
    • The end of Queens Wharf (in front of The Cloud and The Lighthouse) 
    • Little Shoal Bay 
    • Hinemoa Park next to the Birkenhead Ferry Terminal 
    • Maungawhau Mt Eden 
    • Bayswater Marina 
    • Takurunga Mt Victoria 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Govt set to break promise on Dunedin Hospital

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party is calling on the Government to honour its promise to Dunedin and build its new hospital to full capacity. 

    “Failing to build the hospital to what was promised would be a complete betrayal and an utter kick in the guts for Dunedin,” says the Green Party Spokesperson for Dunedin Issues, Scott Willis.

    “Healthcare is a human right and something Dunedin deserves. We need to invest in our health system so it’s fit to cater to the needs of all of our communities.

    “The current Government is failing to invest in a health system on its knees, putting priority on trickle-down tax cuts for the already wealthy. Yet for years Dunedin’s health system has struggled with chronic staff shortages, equipment shortfalls and facilities not fit for purpose.

    “This Government made a promise during the election, pledging to build a new Dunedin Hospital to modern standards – now this looks set to be broken as the Government offers mealy-mouthed excuses. The Coalition is clearly trying to worm away from its promise to our community.

    “Right now, the need for a fully equipped hospital in Dunedin couldn’t be more critical. Dunedin deserves a new hospital, and deserves so much more than this Government. 

    “The Government is undermining our health system to fund trickle-down tax cuts. The health of our people must come before the pockets of the wealthy. 

    “I look forward to joining the local community this Saturday as we march for the Dunedin hospital and our health services,” says Scott Willis.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Census release of iwi data a significant resource for Te Whata  – Stats NZ media release

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Census release of iwi data a significant resource for Te Whata  – 26 September 2024 – From today, individuals and dwellings data by Māori descent and iwi affiliation will be available on Te Whata.

    Te Whata is a by iwi, for iwi data platform developed by Te Kāhui Raraunga and supported by Stats NZ. It is available at http://www.tewhata.io.

    Customised census iwi data requests are also available through Te Ara Takatū.

    This is the second time Stats NZ has partnered with Te Kāhui Raraunga to release Māori data from the 2023 Census on the Te Whata platform. The historic joint initiative is part of work under the Mana Ōrite Relationship Agreement between the Data Iwi Leaders Group and Stats NZ.

    Visit our website to read this news story:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Business Statement – 001413

    Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

    BUSINESS STATEMENT

    Hon SIMEON BROWN (Deputy Leader of the House): Today the House will adjourn until Tuesday, 15 October. In that week, the House will consider the second readings of the Gambling (Definition of Remote Interactive Gambling) Amendment Bill, the Fisheries (International Fishing and Other Matters) Amendment Bill, and the Resource Management (Freshwater and Other Matters) Amendment Bill. Wednesday will be a member’s day.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Karakia/Prayers – 001414

    Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

    THURSDAY, 26 SEPTEMBER 2024

    The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.

    KARAKIA/PRAYERS

    Dr LAWRENCE XU-NAN (Green): [Chinese text to be inserted by the Hansard Office.]

    Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed upon us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom, justice, mercy, and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Hansard Report – Thursday, 26 September 2024 – Volume 778 – 001415

    Source: New Zealand Parliament – Hansard

    THURSDAY, 26 SEPTEMBER 2024

    The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.

    KARAKIA/PRAYERS

    Dr LAWRENCE XU-NAN (Green): [Chinese text to be inserted by the Hansard Office.]

    Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed upon us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom, justice, mercy, and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Luxon Govt shows total disregard for public concerns about climate

    Source: Greenpeace

    Showing a profound disregard for the people of New Zealand, the Government has allowed only five days for the public to make submissions on the Government’s climate denying law to restart oil and gas exploration.
    The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill was only introduced into Parliament on Tuesday, September 24. Today, the chair of the Economic Development Select Committee decided the closing date for public submissions is Tuesday night October 1st. The Bill aims to restart offshore oil and gas exploration and weaken the requirement for oil companies to pay for the clean-up after they finish work.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Russel Norman says, “The Government has already shown complete disregard for climate science in proposing to restart oil and gas exploration.
    “The decision to allow only five days for public submissions on the bill, three working days, shows they also have complete disregard for the people of New Zealand who care about climate change.
    “Regardless of whether this climate denying bill passes through Parliament, the Government is dreaming if they think oil and gas exploration will restart. The people of New Zealand mobilised in their tens of thousands to end oil and gas exploration and they will again.
    “Whatever Chris Luxon might think, the future of Aotearoa is in clean energy not climate destroying fossil fuels.”
    Over thirty thousand people have signed on to an ‘ open letter of resistance’ to the oil industry published by Greenpeace. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Hitting the nail on the head, Offender arrested in Burglary

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Senior Sergeant Ross Smith, Hawke’s Bay Police:

    A man is facing the courts after being spotted attempting to steal items from a Napier building site yesterday, Wednesday 25 September.

    Police responded to the scene around 4:40pm where a man was attempting to walk out with building materials, including wiring.

    It wasn’t his lucky day, and Police quickly swept in apprehending the offender. 

    A 43-year-old man has been remanded in custody due to appear in the Napier District Court Wednesday 16 October on charges including burglary, procuring cannabis, and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

    This is a timely reminder to ensure your building sites are well-secured and items aren’t left in the open.

    While it can add a few minutes to your day, ensuring the site is secure could be the deterrent needed to ensure your not the one paying the price.

    Prevention is the best offence to decrease the chance of burglaries, here are some useful prevention tips.

    1)           If you work on a construction site, be vigilant and secure building materials. 
    2)           Take your tools home with you or lock them up in a shed on site.
    3)           For construction companies that own tools, engrave company names and phone numbers onto the goods.
    4)           Engrave your tools with your driver licence number. That way, if we find your tools, there’s a better chance of us getting them back to you.
    5)           Keep a record of the serial numbers.
    6)           If you work on a construction site, be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to Police.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Accelerated Programme: Next closure on SH1 in South Waikato

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    The third stage of the huge maintenance project to improve State Highway 1 (SH1) in central and southern Waikato gets underway on Sunday night. From 7pm Sunday 29 September 2024, SH1 will be closed at nights between Piarere and just north of Tīrau (SH1/SH27 intersection).

    Work is underway here until 6am Friday 18 October.

    The closures won’t happen every night – they are from 7pm to 6am, Sunday to Thursday nights. The road will be open from 6am each Friday morning until 7pm Sunday nights.

    Residents, businesses and emergency services will have access at all times.

    The detour is via SH29 and SH27 as shown in the map attached. The detour is 12.9 kms which equates to approximately an extra 10 minutes of travel time.

    NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager of Maintenance and Operations for Waikato and Bay of Plenty, Roger Brady, urges motorists to take extra care. “We ask motorists to use the official detours and to go carefully and drive to the conditions while doing so.

    “Using sideroads for shortcuts is discouraged, as many of them are not designed for large increases in traffic.”

    While this detour is underway at nights, Totman Road will have residents-only access.

    “After a brief delay due to a bout of wet Spring weather, the improvement in the conditions this week has meant the foam bitumen stabilising work is underway between Tīrau and Putāruru and also Ātiamuri to Wairakei. This is a key part of the road rebuilding but is very reliant on temperature and dry conditions,” Mr Brady says.

    The next section for closure will be between Tokoroa and Ātiamuri and this is expected to last for 6 weeks, starting on Monday 7 October.

    A weekly e-newsletter is being produced with further information and people are encouraged to sign up via the website:

    SH1 Tīrau to Waiouru maintenance(external link)

    Piarere to Tirau SH1 closure map

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Predator control helps rare mountain wren

    Source: Department of Conservation

    Date:  26 September 2024

    DOC has monitored rock wrens across the South Island for the past five years to see how they fare both with and without predator control using methods like trapping and aerial 1080.

    DOC Science Advisor Tristan Rawlence says monitoring shows rock wren numbers are mostly increasing where predators are regularly controlled but gradually declining at unmanaged sites.

    “On average, there are more than double the number of rock wrens in areas with predator control compared to areas without,” says Tristan.

    “Stoats can be common in alpine areas and we’re increasingly seeing rats in this environment too, possibly due to warmer temperatures.”

    Rock wrens hop and flit rather than flying and nest on the ground, making them easy prey for introduced predators like rats and stoats. They are threatened with extinction.

    With five years of monitoring data, Tristan says it’s now possible to see which predator control methods are of most benefit to rock wren.

    “We’re seeing the best results where we’re using aerial 1080 in the alpine area above the tree line where rock wrens live year-round, and not just in the surrounding forest.

    “We’ve also learnt we need to control predators whenever the beech forest seeds, as predator numbers soar in response to more food.”  

    Rock wrens live in alpine areas in the Southern Alps/Kā Tiritiri o Te Moana and Kahurangi. They can go into torpor or semi-hibernation (dropping their body temperature and energy needs), an adaptation thought to help them survive harsh winter conditions.

    Each summer since 2019, DOC researchers have surveyed for rock wrens at 25 sites ranging from Fiordland to Kahurangi. There are 19 monitoring sites where rock wrens are protected through predator control and six sites where there is no management. Monitoring frequency has now been reduced with sites visited every two years. 

    Previous research has shown rock wrens produce 3-5 times as many chicks when predators are controlled. A study in Kahurangi National Park over four years showed 58% of rock wren nests were successful in fledging young following aerial 1080 predator control, while just 13% were successful without.

    This monitoring programme is part of DOC’s National Predator Control Programme, which protects the most at-risk wildlife and forests across New Zealand’s public conservation land.

    Rock wrens belong to an ancient lineage of New Zealand wrens that once included seven species. Today, only the rock wren and rifleman/titipounamu survive.

    Background information

    Rock wren populations found in northern and southern areas of the South Island have been found to be genetically distinct. The northern birds are assessed as more threatened (classified ‘Nationally Critical’ under the New Zealand Threat Classification System) than the southern ones (classified ‘Nationally Endangered’).

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Hundreds more jobs cuts on housing frontline

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The Government has shown its true intentions for the public service and economy – it’s not to get more public servants back to the office, it’s more job losses.

    “Reports of more than 300 jobs to go at Kāinga Ora shows that National has no interest in solving the housing crisis, but just wants to see an end to public housing,” Labour housing spokesperson Kieran McAnulty said.

    “The people doing these jobs are the very people that have helped deliver record number of houses for New Zealanders. Now they’re thanking them by taking away their jobs and incomes.

    “Chris Bishop and Tama Potaka promised New Zealanders they would build more houses than Labour yet so far, their record on housing is to make it harder for people to access emergency housing, easier to be kicked out of tenancies and taking Kāinga Ora from building record numbers of homes to funding none.

    “This has been the Government’s agenda all along. We can’t forget the last National government ended up with 1,500 fewer public homes than it started with and sucked out $576 million in dividends.

    “They’ve also capped funding for community housing providers at 750 houses per year, and scrapped the First Home Grant.

    “Chris Bishop is all talk and no delivery. His actions will result in more people homeless and less public housing – exactly what happened the last time National were in Government,” Kieran McAnulty said.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Labour welcomes UAE trade deal

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The New Zealand Labour Party welcomes the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed today with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

    The Labour Government began exploratory trade talks on this agreement in September last year and represented a deepening of bilateral relations between our two countries.

    “The UAE is a significant trading partner for New Zealand, with exports approaching $1 billion per annum,” said Labour trade spokesperson Damien O’Connor.

    “The UAE is also a hub for New Zealand Inc operations into the region and a key component of New Zealand’s air connectivity to the Middle East and beyond.

    “An agreement with the UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council was the next step following the UK and EU free trade agreements Labour concluded in government, and conclusion by the National Government is another great step forward in trade opportunities for our exporters.”

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Building a stronger weather forecasting system

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is looking at integrating the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) and the MetService to improve the weather forecasting system for New Zealand, Science, Innovation & Technology Minister Judith Collins says.

    “We have agreed in-principle to NIWA acquiring the MetService, with the MetService retaining its role as New Zealand’s authorised meteorologist, subject to further work being completed.

    “Having a strong weather forecasting system which combines weather forecasting science with land and hydrological system sciences through to daily public weather updates will help us meet the current and future demands of New Zealanders,” Ms Collins says. 

    “Our weather forecasting system is critically important, not only to give us warning of severe weather so that we can prepare, but for daily operations of the aviation, marine and energy industries, and many businesses across New Zealand. It is crucial that our capabilities are streamlined in order to ensure that it is easy to access information about the weather from a single trusted source.

    “Extreme weather events in 2023 resulted in a tragic loss of life. These events cost nearly $12 billion in economic terms and $5 billion in insured loss. The Weather Forecasting System Review found that there is a compelling case for change.

    “Bringing together the science around climate, weather forecasting, hydrology, and coastal hazards will improve our understanding and allow us to better prepare for, and respond to, severe weather events,” Ms Collins says.

    “More work is needed before this change can happen. We have asked officials at the Treasury and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to work with the MetService and NIWA to provide implementation details as soon as possible.

    “A more streamlined system will increase safety, improve efficiencies and support a future focused weather forecasting system that works for all New Zealanders.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Changes to improve prison safety and rehabilitation

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Corrections Amendment Bill has passed its third reading in Parliament today, making a number of changes to improve safety and rehabilitation in prisons.  

    Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says it’s important the law is reflective of the increasingly complex prison environment. 

    “Corrections manages some of New Zealand’s most dangerous people, and violence and aggression in prisons poses an ongoing challenge. Increasing staff safety is one of my key priorities for Corrections and this Bill supports that goal,” Mr Mitchell says.  

    “Through new intelligence provisions, the Bill gives Corrections clear powers to improve prison and public safety through monitoring prisoner calls, while also including safeguards to ensure transparency and privacy. 

    “Corrections will be using intelligence to identify prisoners who seek to harm other people in prison or members of the public. 

    “Reducing reoffending through effective rehabilitation is another of the Government’s priorities. To support this, the Bill enables limited mixing of remand accused and remand convicted prisoners, which will enable Corrections to expand rehabilitation opportunities for remand prisoners.” 

    The Bill also makes a number of other changes that improve Corrections’ ability to operate prisons safely and efficiently, including: 

    • providing for the expanded use of body imaging searches of prisoners to further prevent contraband such as drugs and cell phones from entering prisons.
    • strengthening processes for the authorisation and use of less-lethal weapons, such as pepper spray, to ensure frontline staff have the appropriate tools to keep themselves and prisons safe. 
    • ensuring a more timely and effective disciplinary process in prisons by allowing hearings to proceed in the absence of a prisoner if they have refused to attend.
    • requiring prisoners segregated due to their risk of self-harm to be visited daily by a health professional – while this already happens in practice, it is now a legal requirement.
    • requiring Corrections to report annually on its use of intelligence powers, to boost transparency and accountability.

    “These changes will support our wider work to improve prison capacity and staffing levels, staff safety, and access to rehabilitation, including through the $1.9 billion investment in Budget 2024.

    “The Bill will support Corrections to achieve its core purpose of improved prison and public safety and help deliver on the Government’s comprehensive plan to restore law and order and keep New Zealanders safe.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Have your say on the Crown Minerals Amendment Bill

    Source: New Zealand Parliament

    The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill seeks to promote the strategic and responsible development of New Zealand’s natural resources. It supports the Government’s objective to promote petroleum exploration and production to ensure that gas remains a transition fuel until viable and cost-effective alternatives in place.

    The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill would:

    • reverse the 2018 ban that limited new petroleum exploration permits outside onshore Taranaki
    • provide greater flexibility to the decommissioning regime
    • return the Act’s purpose statement to “promote prospecting for, exploration for, and mining of Crown owned minerals for the benefit of New Zealand”
    • introduce a new permit class (Tier 3) to make it easier for small-scale, non-commercial mining operations.

    The bill would also make changes to improve investor confidence in the New Zealand petroleum sector.

    Tell the Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee what you think

    Make a submission on the bill by 11.59pm on Tuesday, 1 October 2024.

    For more details about the bill:

    ENDS

    For media enquiries contact:

    Economic Development, Science and Innovation Committee staff

    EDSI.legislation@parliament.govt.nz

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Shoplifter’s next trip to court

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    One supermarket shoplifter in Papakura didn’t bargain for an eagle-eyed camera operator in her plans.

    Instead, she is without $300 in stolen groceries and faces the Papakura District Court today.

    Acting Senior Sergeant Melody Brown, from Counties Manukau South Police, says a supermarket reported the shoplifting as it was occurring around lunchtime on Tuesday.

    “A woman was brazenly walking out of the store with a trolley full of around $300 in groceries.”

    In came the CCTV network installed around Papakura’s Town Centre.

    “A camera operator was able to track the woman’s movements to a vehicle and this information was relayed back to Police,” acting Senior Sergeant Brown says.

    A Police unit was soon arriving at a nearby Papakura address.

    “Our staff located a woman matching the description in the process of unloading the stolen goods from her vehicle.”

    The 33-year-old woman was arrested and has been charged with theft.

    Acting Senior Sergeant Brown says Police have a strong relationship locally with the Papakura Business Association.

    “Their camera network is invaluable in helping us respond to incidents as they occur, but also assist in other ongoing investigations,” she says.

    “We’d like to acknowledge their camera monitor for their diligent work yesterday.”

    ENDS. 

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stolen property returned following spate of burglaries, Feilding

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Sergeant Luke Shannon, Feilding Police.

    Residents of a Feilding retirement village can sleep easier now Feilding Police have returned their previously stolen items, and identified a person of interest for the burglaries.

    We have been working closely with the residents of the Ranfurly Manor Villas since the spate of overnight burglaries between 22-26 August 2024.

    Outdoor property was being targeted and taken from patios as the residents slept and they were understandably feeling shaken and uneasy.

    A meeting was held on Thursday 5 September at Ranfurly Manor, Police alongside our partners Community Patrol and Neighbourhood support provided crime prevention advice and reassurance for these individuals.

    Today with some public support Police were able to locate the property stolen and return it to the residents.

    Senior Constable Tracey Colville alongside Constable Char Lucas hand delivered the property back and the residents were ecstatic to be reunited with their property.

    A person of interest has been identified with charges expected in the near future.

    This is a great result for our community and shows the results we can achieve working together.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –