NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand welcomes United Arab Emirates Trade Minister

    Source: New Zealand Government

    United Arab Emirates Minister of State for Foreign Trade Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi will visit New Zealand this week, Trade Minister Todd McClay has today announced. 

    “I’m delighted to welcome my colleague and friend, Minister Al Zeyoudi to New Zealand. The UAE is one of our closest partners and a key export destination in the Gulf region, and we are focused on deepening our connections across a range of areas,” Mr McClay says.

    “Two-way trade with the UAE amounts to NZ$1.3 billion per year. We want to grow that figure together.”

    H.E. Al Zeyoudi will arrive in Wellington on 25 September and will have a number of engagements over his three-day visit, including with the Parliamentary and business communities. The visit will also be an opportunity to take forward trade negotiations launched on 7 May 2024. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Heavy rain warnings for Te Wai Pounamu/parts of the West Coast and South Island

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    People driving through Fiordland, along the West Coast of the South Island and around the Canterbury high country and alpine passes are warned to be ready for heavy rain overnight tonight and into Thursday, says MetService and NZTA.

    Although the amounts are not predicted to be huge at this stage, combined with recent heavy rain, snowmelt and spring conditions, there is more potential for slips and rockfalls.

    Drivers need to be on the lookout, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    “Given recent rockfalls on the Haast Pass (SH6), and avalanches on the Milford Road (SH94), we are not out of winter yet,” says NZTA Journey Manager Nicole Felts. “Drivers should be prepared for changeable conditions and possible road closures.”

    From bottom to top

    There are heavy rain watches in place for Fiordland north of Doubtful Sound and the headwaters of the Otago lakes and rivers from tonight into Thursday lunchtime.

    The Westland Ranges may catch heavy rain from the early hours of Thursday to later Thursday.

    A heavy rain warning also covers the Canterbury lakes and rivers headwaters from 9 am Thursday to later Thursday night, with a nor-westerly gale warning for the Canterbury high country. People driving high-sided vehicles (campervans, towing caravans) and motorcyclists need to be aware of the danger and the potential for powerline damage/ tree branches over roads.

    There is also a heavy rain watch for Buller and Grey Districts from Thursday afternoon to the early hours of Friday.

    “Check highway traffic real time updates before you head out tomorrow,” says Miss Felts.

    Journey Planner – Highway conditions(external link)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Drivers warned to expect delays on State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill this Thursday

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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    Drivers travelling between Wellington and Wairarapa must be ready for delays tomorrow (Thursday, 26 September), with two stop-go sites operating on the route.

    One is an existing 24/7 stop/go at an underslip site due to be repaired within the next six weeks.

    The other is temporary and will be in place tomorrow between 10 am and 3 pm to allow road crews to install safety barriers alongside the closed slow vehicle bay at a nearby overslip site.

    The two slips are approximately half a kilometre apart and require separate stop/go controls to allow traffic to flow efficiently.

    This means drivers can expect delays of up to five minutes when travelling over Remutaka Hill. Please plan accordingly and allow extra time for your journeys.

    NZTA/Waka Kotahi and the Wellington Transport Alliance thank drivers for their patience and understanding while this work is underway.

    Tags

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Symposium 2024

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Thank you very much for the generous welcome Reverend Reihana.

    Thank you to Alcohol Healthwatch and your organising committee, including representatives from: FASD-CAN Aotearoa; Te Iho Tātai-ā-Rongo (the Māori FASD Coalition); Hauora Māori Services and Health Promotion Directorates, Health New Zealand; Oranga Tamariki; and the Centre for Addiction Research, University of Auckland, for inviting me to this important event.

    Alongside the organising committee, I would also like to acknowledge Raawiri Ratuu, from Kookiri ki Taamakimakaurau Trust, and the advice and practical support he has provided in preparation for this symposium.

    I am very pleased to be addressing the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) community today. 

    I would like to take this moment now to recognise all of you and your tireless efforts and commitment. 

    FASD has gone under-recognised and under-supported for too long in New Zealand, but you have remained strong and dedicated as we now stand on the precipice of meaningful change. 

    I acknowledge that you have had to navigate difficult spaces, motivated by the love of family and community. Ngā mihi ki a koutou.

    I would also like to acknowledge Alcohol Healthwatch for leading engagements with their community across New Zealand over the past two months. You have gathered valuable insights that will inform the revitalisation of the Government’s FASD Strategic Action Plan.

    Along with FASD-CAN, Kookiri ki Taamaki Makaurau Trust, the Māori Coalition for Te Iho Tātai-ā-Rongo, Village Collective, and the whole FASD community, you have built a foundation upon which we can set our collective direction for FASD.

    I believe families, whānau, professionals at the frontline and communities are best placed to know how to support people impacted by FASD. 

    I acknowledge the range of experiences and strengths you bring to this work, and this is is reflected in the approach we are taking to develop the new FASD Strategic Action Plan. 

    I am committed to keeping people at the front and center of this mission. 

    Only with the experiences, opportunities and solutions from people within and outside of the health system will we develop services truly respond to the needs of people affected by FASD. 

    Comments from FASD providers highlighted the importance of listening to communities, when they expressed, “the very first thing that this is about – is being heard and seen, that your story is true, valid and important. Just that, I reckon just that. I call it deep listening.”

    I used to similarly observe as a GP, that often people just want to hear and be heard, see and be seen. 

    That’s what an engagement process is about. Listening to whānau. Listening to community. 

    I intend to continue listening to all voices. Even when it is hard. Even when it is challenging. I will listen.

    In April this year, I committed this Government to taking meaningful, tangible action to address FASD in New Zealand. 

    I announced a first tranche of initiatives, with $2 million of funding across five key initiatives:

    1. Publishing the first New Zealand-specific FASD diagnostic guidelines. 
    2. Training up to 30 health professionals from Child Development Services to use these new guidelines.
    3. Launching A nationwide FASD prevention campaign.
    4. Establishing an FASD pilot programme to support Māori communities and whānau living with FASD, and 
    5. Revitalising the FASD Strategic Action Plan. 

    We are already seeing considerable progress on these actions. 

    Publication of the new FASD guidelines occurred in April and diagnostic training has already started, in collaboration with Hāpai Te Hauora, and the first group of 30 clinicians will have completed their training by the end of the year. 

    This will further grow a health workforce that is better equipped to understand and support the needs of people with FASD and their families.

    Health New Zealand are now co-designing the prevention campaign with a group of young people who represent the next generation of parents, as well as their support people, whānau, hapū and iwi. 

    The campaign focuses on preventing and raising awareness about FASD and its effects on communities and will launch before the end of this year. 

    The FASD community pilot programme started in May this year and is being delivered by the Māori Coalition for Te Iho Tātai-ā-Rongo (FASD). 

    This is a comprehensive programme that includes a series of regional wānanga with communities that have been identified with FASD high needs.

    These wānanga focus on whānau living with FASD, health professionals and has a particular focus in setting up peer support. 

    In addition, they have completed a national online conference bringing together Māori researchers, policy makers, clinicians and representation from Te Kāhui Taurikura. 

    The coalition is building FASD capacity within regions with stakeholder hui with workforce and whānau living with FASD. 

    They have Te Whare ō Oro training that is in alignment with the wānanga which introduces neurodiversity training into these pilot areas.

    Finally, the revitalisation of the FASD Strategic Action Plan is well underway. Community engagement was completed at the end of August, and health agencies are now actively developing the priorities that will make up the plan. 

    I know health agencies will be further consulting key FASD organisations and networks, as well as clinicians and sector experts, in the first quarter of 2025 on the draft plan. 

    I expect groups that led the community engagement will be able to see their contributions reflected in that draft plan, which will outline a phased and coordinated approach to addressing FASD over the coming years.

    As I said in April, these are only the first steps the Government is taking to drive action on FASD. I signaled a clear intention to introduce further initiatives that will build momentum and further our knowledge and understanding of FASD.  

    I reflect again on the voices of the community in setting further FASD priorities today. 

    One FASD observer has noted, “Pretty much every professional group would gain hugely from understanding and then reframing their responses as a result… It seems to me that actually our whole society needs education on what FASD is and its impacts.”

    I agree. 

    An important part of advancing FASD is lifting literacy and actions across all areas where there are opportunities to prevent FASD or provide support to people with FASD. 

    This includes in the community, in healthcare settings, the education system, children’s system and the justice system. 

    That’s why today I am confirming $4.85 million of funding, for a second tranche of three more key FASD initiatives. 

    I expect to make further announcements on FASD in the build up to the release of the FASD Strategic Action Plan next year. 

    This funding is made possible through a lift to the Alcohol Levy that Cabinet agreed to in July.

    This took the levy from approximately $11.5m to $16.6m – a boost of more than $5 million this year.

    There were criticisms that the levy was not actually raised high enough, and I understand this. 

    However, it demonstrates a willingness on the part of the Government to fund our priority actions that deliver tangible outcomes, and given this is the first rise in the alcohol levy in 15 years. 

    We have taken a microscope to what the levy is being spent on and it is not clear to me that all the initiatives have delivered tangible, positive health outcomes for New Zealanders. 

    Evidence-based outcomes is a key principle of this Government’s investments – every initiative must provide clear, demonstrable value to communities. 

    That is the challenge I put to you, as together we design the FASD Strategic Action Plan. Demonstrate how your initiatives and proposals will make a tangible difference for New Zealanders.

    $4.85 million is a sizeable commitment to the FASD work programme and builds on the $2 million I announced for tranche one initiatives in April – bringing our total investment in FASD support and prevention to date, to $6.85 million. 

    The tranche two initiatives announced today are: 

    1. Undertaking an FASD prevalence study, to understand the true nature of the challenge FASD presents in New Zealand, rather than relying on extrapolated overseas data. We will have our own, New Zealand data.
    2. Growing FASD awareness and capacity across communities and a range of health, disability, and social services, with formal, structured education. 
    3. Supporting initiatives that promote alcohol-free pregnancies and reduce the stigma of FASD.

    The three year prevalence study will start in mid-2025. It will focus on both the prevalence and impact of FASD in New Zealand, and how demographic, socio-economic, and maternal factors influence the occurrence and diagnosis of FASD among different populations. 

    The aim is for this study to screen a minimum of 2500 children, in line with World Health Organization FASD prevalence research protocols. Children will be identified through targeted school settings in high-risk locations. 

    Growing FASD awareness and capacity within communities and across a range of health, disability, and social services professionals will occur through a range of training opportunities being made available. 

    These will include: 

    • Developing a new micro-credential training programme for the recently developed NZQA-approved unit standards. Development and delivery of this training will be undertaken in close collaboration with subject matter experts and will be relevant and accessible for a range of different audiences and training cohorts, including families and carers.
    • Developing and implementing non-clinical training for communities to increase FASD awareness. This training will align to current activities with the FASD community pilot programme and other localised support programmes.
    • Funding a second clinical cohort of 30 Child Development Services professionals to undertake training based on New Zealand’s FASD diagnostic guidelines.

    Supporting prevention and reducing stigma around FASD will include: expanding our evaluation cohort for the nation-wide prevention campaign which will provide insights into the campaign messaging and implementation. In collaboration with sector partners we have supported with resource to highlight FASD awareness month.

    These priorities are direct responses to community-led efforts and demonstrate the importance of community advocacy and voice in all parts of the health system. 

    For instance, the new FASD micro-credential training that includes NZQA unit standards will support best practice for people working alongside and engaging with people living with FASD. These unit standards were developed collaboratively by Hayley Semenoff and the team at Toitū te Waiora workforce development council and FASD-CAN Aotearoa.

    This training will reflect a shared aspiration with the FASD community for a workforce with an FASD-informed lens, who will be our frontline change agents. They will be competent and confident supporting people impacted by FASD across their lifespan and in different settings, including health, education, disability, and justice systems.

    Health NZ is still in the early stages of work on these priorities. I expect to continue to update the FASD community as they progress in the lead up to the launch of the FASD Strategic Action Plan next year.

    We remain committed to driving change and improving health outcomes for all New Zealanders, and particularly those who experience the worst health outcomes.

    That won’t come without its challenges. Achieving change has been hard for previous governments and will be hard for me too. But these challenges provide opportunities. Opportunities to sharpen our focus on what matters most and actions that will make the biggest impacts on people’s lives.

    I believe in bringing care and decision making close to the home and closer to the hapū, and I recognise the unique qualities Māori health providers bring and the importance of local providers delivering services within their communities. 

    I look forward to seeing what opportunities there are for local and community initiatives to better support people with FASD, to consider as part of the refreshed FASD Strategic Action Plan.

    One of the greatest challenges is in fully understanding the prevalence and extent of FASD in New Zealand. This is, in part, due to complexities and barriers to formal diagnosis and national data collection. These barriers limit our ability to intervene effectively and tailor supports to local needs.

    We need to better understand FASD prevalence across New Zealand, which means we can deliver more effective and targeted prevention and early intervention activities and then measure their impact. 

    This is why the announcements I have made today are so important. But I want to make clear that gaps in what we know about the prevalence of FASD does not distract from its very real impacts. 

    We must remember our context, where an estimated three to five children in New Zealand are born with FASD every day. 

    We know we must address this and the primary mechanism we have is through the refreshed FASD Strategic Action Plan. 

    Over the next 12 months, I hope to build an approach that will further support the prevention of FASD and identify critical points in the lifespan of individuals with FASD where we can make the greatest difference. 

    The community voices and insights captured over the past two months will be vital to that, and I acknowledge the wider alcohol prevention work that Rawiri and his team have undertaken with the Kaupapa Te Ropū report on alcohol harm for Māori. 

    However, until the long-term action plan is published next year, we have listened to the best community and expert advice and have already made a start, with an investment of over $6.85 million across eight initiatives aimed at better understanding the impact of FASD, promoting better education in community and clinical settings and supporting women to stay alcohol free during pregnancy. 

    Three to five children are born with FASD every day – that’s why there’s no time to wait. 

    We want New Zealand to be a country where people are supported to have alcohol-free pregnancies, where the prevalence of FASD is well understood, where quality FASD diagnostic tools and training are widely used, and people living with FASD and their families are well supported.

    Finally, I would like to reflect on the theme of this conference, ‘Ko te FASD kei a hau, ehara i a hau. FASD is what I have NOT who I am’.

    To me, this is a powerful message which tackles both the issues of stigma, and most importantly, aspiration.

    The aspirations of individuals, families, carers, and the whole FASD community, to lead thriving lives. Lives in which people with FASD, can pursue education, employment, and meaningful connections with friends, families, and communities.

    While FASD might have lifelong impacts, it should not be a life sentence. We have the chance to change that. To build on our strengths and not be defined by a diagnosis. 

    That’s my vision for the future.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland on track to meet critical water targets

    Source: Auckland Council

    Tāmaki Makaurau is on track to meet its targets to reduce water consumption  and the water supply target for recycled water capacity. That’s according to the annual progress report for the Auckland Water Strategy.

    The Auckland Water Strategy (2022 – 2050) is Auckland Council’s 30-year approach to water, guided by the vision te mauri o te wai – that the life-sustaining capacity of Auckland’s water is protected and enhanced.

    The Policy and Planning Committee heard a progress report in its recent meeting. Chair of the committee, Councillor Richard Hills, welcomed this report and acknowledged our complex relationship with water.

    “We’ve seen the extremes of our relationship with water in recent years, from severe flooding to drought and water restrictions. The Auckland Water Strategy provides us with a guiding vision while ensuring that strategic direction is being progressed through efforts across the organisation to enhance our resilience to water-related natural hazards, improve our partnership with mana whenua, and improve our planning framework,” says Cr Hills.

    “There have been some notable milestones achieved in the last year, especially around enhancing our resilience to water-related natural hazards and updating our planning framework. Through the Storm Response Fund and Making Space for Water programme, there’s been some great mahi to empower communities to prepare for a changing water future and enhance the uptake of resilient infrastructure.

    “There’s more work to be done and it’s great to have a guiding vision as we continue to protect and enhance our relationship with, and management of, water in Tāmaki Makaurau.”

    Highlights from the report

    Highlights from the report included that Tāmaki Makaurau is still on track to achieve the strategy’s water consumption targets to reduce consumption below 253 litres per person per day by June 2025. This is despite a slight increase in per capita consumption in the 2023/2024 financial year.

    Additionally, Tāmaki Makaurau has already exceeded its supply target of having at least 20M litres per day of recycled water capacity (that can be used in a productive way) by 2030. This is due to re-using purified wastewater in Watercare’s wastewater treatment plants as well as some major construction projects.

    The report also noted that, of the 34 actions outlined by the strategy indicatively scoped for delivery by the end of June 2025, 15 are on track or complete, 16 are at risk of not being delivered within the envisioned timeframe, and three are behind schedule at the time of reporting.

    “Strategic direction is being progressed through efforts across the organisation to enhance our resilience to water-related natural hazards, improve our partnership with mana whenua, and improve our planning framework,” says Dave Allen, Auckland Council’s Manager Natural Environment Strategy.

    “However, resource constraints mean that delivering all 34 actions identified for delivery by 30 June 2025 will be a challenge. To support implementation, we’ve prioritised actions in the strategy to better support resource allocation over the next year and will be working closely with the leadership and staff in key departments across the organisation to enhance commitment to achieving delivery of the strategy’s actions.”

    About the Water Strategy

    The Auckland Water Strategy ensures that the protection and enhancement of water is a priority in our decision making. The strategy helps us ensure that all our future decision making, and investments will contribute to improving the health of our waters.

    The Water Strategy framework centres around eight strategic shifts:

    • Te Tiriti Partnership
    • Empowered Aucklanders
    • Sustainable Allocation and Equitable Access
    • Regenerative Water Infrastructure
    • Water Security
    • Integrated Land-Use and Water Planning
    • Restoring and Enhancing Water Ecosystems
    • Pooling Knowledge.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Better options for same-sex parents

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says the Government is delivering better flexibility for same-sex parents in New Zealand by making changes to the Births, Deaths, Marriages, and Relationships Regulations.

    “Parents notifying the birth of their child will soon be able to choose whether they are named as a ‘mother’, ‘father’, or ‘parent’ on the child’s birth certificate. This gives parents greater choice over how they identify and acknowledges same-sex couples,” says Ms van Velden.

    “There are many diverse families within New Zealand who will be supported to have their identity reflected on official documents. For example, two mums who may both wish to be listed as ‘mother’ on the birth certificate of their child.”

    “This Government believes in freedom of choice for individuals, and I am proud to be delivering this change to give parents greater choice,” says Ms van Velden. 

    “The Government has agreed to bring the regulations into line with the Births, Deaths, Marriages, and Relationships Registration Act 2021. The regulations will be passed later this year and will be operational in December 2024.”

    This policy will not change the information collected by the Department about who has given birth to the child. It will also not affect current adoption laws for parents who have a child through surrogacy.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Northland News – Consent granted for 172-hectare Bream Bay solar farm

    Source: Northland Regional Council

    Independent hearings commissioners have granted an application by Meridian Energy Limited (MEL) to build a multi-million dollar 172-hectare solar farm across three sites at Marsden Pt, Ruakākā.
    The company had applied to the Northland Regional Council for resource consents for earthworks, associated stormwater diversion and discharges and vegetation clearance for the farm. (Land use consent for the solar farm was granted by the Whangarei District Council in February this year.)
    The application also proposed the creation, enhancement and restoration of 18.86ha of wetland across the three sites to offset the permanent removal of 17.06ha of wetlands.
    The application was lodged in September last year and publicly notified in March, attracting 12 submissions; two in support and 10 opposed. It was heard by commissioners David Hill (Chair) and Sheila Taylor over two days in Whangarei last month. (Subs: August 05 and 06).
    In their recently released decision granting the requested consents for 35 years, the commissioners said MEL had been looking for an opportunity to establish a solar farm in Northland to improve the resilience of both regional and national energy supply.
    “This culminated in the purchase of three sites at Marsden Point, and the consenting and construction of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on the northern-most site (corner Rama Road and SH15) as the first stage of the Ruakākā Energy Park.”
    Two hundred thousand solar panels would be installed to construct the 100-150MW farm which would produce 150-200GWh of electricity annually.
    In their decision the commissioners said the national and regional electricity generation benefits were not disputed.
    They found that “after having regard to the actual and potential effects on the environment of allowing the proposed activity, and taking into account the relevant statutory provisions, we find that consent for the proposed activities should be granted…”.
    “The adverse effects of the activity, when considered in the round and with the mitigation proposed and positive effects accounted for, will be minor.”
    The commissioners said the activity of the specified infrastructure was not contrary to the objectives and policies of the relevant plans.
    “The proposed activity is broadly consistent with the provisions of the relevant statutory documents and, with the conditions imposed, will avoid, remedy or mitigate as required the adverse effects that might otherwise be created.”
    The commissioners’ decision is now subject to appeal for 15 working days.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Govt turns back on social housing, prepares to axe 300 Kāinga Ora workers – PSA

    Source: PSA

    – A net 321 roles in housing delivery teams proposed to go
    – Kāinga Ora confirms housing builds falling from 4800 a year to 1600
    Kāinga Ora is proposing to cut a net 321 roles in the teams which play a key role in delivering social housing for thousands of New Zealanders as it significantly slows the building of new houses.
    Staff were informed of the proposed change today making crystal clear the Government’s plans to downsize the state’s role in providing housing for low-income families. Kāinga Ora told staff that the ‘Government has asked us to deliver housing in lower volumes’.
    “We feel for all those dedicated workers who are impacted by this proposal – they have been doing great work for a great purpose which this government is failing to value in its ideological obsession with outsourcing a key state function,” said Duane Leo National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “This is a sad day for the proud tradition of the State building houses for those who depend on the government to provide a secure and healthy roof over their heads.”
    People who look likely to lose their jobs are those critical to the planning, design and construction of social houses, like architects, technical advisors, project coordinators, urban designers, spatial planners, and quality assurance experts. They work across the country with a third in Auckland and represent around 10% of Kāinga Ora’s workforce.
    “Kāinga Ora has done an extraordinary job in its short life in boosting the construction of social houses with nearly 5000 built last year alone. Staff should take credit for their efforts in providing modern homes for those who need them most.”
    A host of Kāinga Ora developments are now on hold as the Government shifts back to a focus on community-provided social housing. This follows a so-called independent review by former Prime Minister Sir Bill English and significant cuts in funding in Budget 2024.
    Duane Leo said; “The Government has made much of the fact that the demand for emergency housing is falling as some families shift to private rentals and into social housing. Many of those social houses were built by the previous government.
    “The confirmation of Kāinga Ora’s much reduced role will only mean uncertainty in the future for these families as the supply of social housing provided by the State falls.
    “Once again we see the Government’s misplaced priorities laid bare – it would rather give a helping hand to landlords than a helping hand to those who need it most.”
    Background – previous PSA statements on Kāinga Ora cuts
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Development – Fast-track panel approves consent for new Queenstown hotel – EPA

    Source: Environmental Protection Authority

    An independent panel has approved resource consent, subject to conditions, to construct a hotel on Man Street, Queenstown.
    The Queenstown Hotel (NZ) Limited Partnership applied for resource consent under the COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track Consenting) Act 2020. The project involves constructing a multi-storey hotel with 185 guest rooms at 12 Man Street.
    The resource consent conditions are in the decision report on the page linked below.
    The decision comes 148 working days after the application was lodged with the Environmental Protection Authority.
    The Environmental Protection Authority is not involved in the decision-making. We provide procedural advice and administrative support to the panel convenor, Judge Laurie Newhook, and the expert consenting panel he appoints.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace – Camera roll-out a win for the ocean, now needed for full fleet

    Source: Greenpeace

    Greenpeace says the continued roll out of cameras on boats announced today is a win for ocean health and environmentalists, who have been campaigning for greater fishing industry accountability for decades – but says it now must also extend to the full fishing fleet.
    Oceans & Fisheries Minister Shane Jones, who has repeatedly opposed the cameras on boats programme, takes campaign donations from the industry, and positioned himself as a “champion of industry”, has today announced that cameras will continue to be fitted to the remaining inshore commercial fishing fleet.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa executive director Dr. Russel Norman says, “Cameras on boats are our eyes at sea, helping to keep the fishing industry accountable, and giving us a clear picture of how commercial fishing impacts the ocean. We know that when cameras go on boats, reported captures of marine life like dolphins and seabirds increase.”
    The rollout of cameras on the first 127 boats led to a seven-fold increase in industry reports of dolphin capture, a 3.5 times increase in reports of killing albatrosses and an almost 50% increase in the reported volume of fish dumping.
    Says Dr Norman: “The initial rollout to 127 vessels led to new regulations to protect seabirds from being killed by commercial fishing boats.
    “Cameras work, and help protect ocean biodiversity. Getting them rolled out on boats is the result of decades of campaigning and public pressure. This announcement today shows that environmental NGOs like Greenpece can win even when faced with a Government and Minister engaged in an all out War On Nature.”
    But Dr. Norman says that the camera programme must now be rolled out to the full fleet, including deep sea bottom trawling boats, whose large weighted nets catch and kill marine life, including fur seals, dolphins and coral. A report released last year, showed that commercial fishers pulled up nearly 200 tonnes of coral over a 13 year period with 99% of that ‘bycatch’ caused by bottom trawling.
    Greenpeace is also concerned that the announcement included changes to fish dumping regulations, whereby commercial fishing companies would no longer be required to land all the sea creatures they kill in their nets.
    “The current discard rules provide strong incentives for fishing companies to minimise the sea creatures killed by their operations, because they have to land them rather than dump them overboard.”Catching and killing and then discarding fish, sharks, rays and so much more is wasteful and damaging to the marine ecosystem. If the fishing industry catches these animals, they should not be allowed to just dump them.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renewable Energy – Ruakākā Solar Farm gains planning consent – Meridian

    Source: Meridian Energy

    Meridian Energy has been granted resource consent to build a 120 MW solar farm in Tai Tokerau Northland.

    With up to 250,000 solar panels, the Ruakākā Solar Farm, south of Whangārei, will be capable of producing 150 to 200 GWh of electricity per year – enough to power more than half the homes in Northland.

    Meridian’s Head of Renewable Development, Rebecca Knott, says the project will boost resilience for the region by reducing Northland’s reliance on electricity generated from other parts of the country.

    “With the bulk of New Zealand’s electricity generation coming from the lower South Island and North Island, south of Auckland, we’re proud to be developing such significant generation capacity in Tai Tokerau. This region is blessed with phenomenal natural resources, and we’re looking forward to delivering a fantastic new project that takes full advantage of that.”

    The solar farm is Stage 2 of Meridian’s Ruakākā Energy Park, which includes a 100 MW battery energy storage system that is at an advanced stage of construction and due for completion in early 2025.

    “The Ruakākā Energy Park is one of a number of renewable energy developments Meridian has underway to improve the security of electricity supply and help create a low carbon future for all Kiwis,” says Rebecca Knott.

    “We’re committed to increasing the amount of renewable electricity we generate and store so that we can help meet New Zealand’s growing demand for clean energy. That commitment is backed by a $3 billion investment through to 2030, and a number of excellent projects already in or approaching the planning process. Solar farms and batteries, alongside our hydro stations and wind farms, are part of the solution to strengthening and growing our electricity system, building resilience for tough years and reducing the cost of electricity for homes and businesses.”

    Subject to the appeal period and final investment decision by the Meridian Board, expected by the end of the year, construction of the Ruakākā Solar Farm will get underway in early 2025. It is expected to be completed in late 2026.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sweet journey for EIT graduate turned business owner | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    2 hours ago

    Courtney Booth has achieved success with her own business since graduating from EIT.

    EIT graduate Courtney Booth has transformed her love for food into a flourishing business with Cuteneys Cakes

    The 29-year-old always had a love for food, nurtured by baking alongside her mum in her hometown of Napier.

    After finishing Year 12 at Tamatea High School, she followed her passion for cooking and enrolled at EIT to study the NZ Certificate in Cookery in 2013.

    “I always knew that I wanted to be a chef, so when I left high school, I knew that I wanted to go to EIT,”

    “But back when I studied, patisserie wasn’t really a thing. It was just like six months on the end of the cookery course and then it wasn’t until 2016 they created a course purely for patisserie. So, I ended up doing it in the second year that it ever ran.”

    During her two-year cookery programme, she worked at Mint Restaurant on Marine Parade.

    “I ended up working there for eight years as a chef. Started off as just a sous chef and then by the end of it, I was doing the head chef role.”

    In 2017, Courtney returned to EIT, this time to study patisserie, and graduated as the top student.

    While working full-time between two jobs, Courtney began making cakes for friends and family, slowly building a reputation on social media.

    “I was doing that for about three years, and then it wasn’t until COVID-19 that I started to think maybe I should look at doing cakes full time. We had just bought our house after the second lockdown, and we converted my garage into a commercial kitchen.”

    “I just jumped into the role full-time doing desserts on top of cakes and it just blew up. It was mostly word of mouth and through social media, and then I started on Uber Eats and Deliver Easy.”

    Her “little kitchen at home got too small” and about a year ago, she opened a storefront on Dalton Street in Napier. It was at this point that she brought on full-time baker and long-time friend Dana MacDonald.

    “Dana used to tutor at EIT and we have been on each other’s radars for many years. She was the one that actually judged my final patisserie dish at EIT. But I always fangirled over her because she worked at Elephant Hill and Malo and all these different fancy places as the pastry chef.”

    “She’s just like another me. We’re the exact same. It’s great to have somebody with the same skill set and I can just leave her to it.”

    Courtney admits every week is “just getting busier and busier”.

    Reflecting on her EIT experience, Courtney praises the institution for equipping her with the skills and confidence to pursue her ambitions.

    “EIT was really good for me, especially the patisserie course. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone interested in food.”

    Looking ahead, Courtney has even bigger plans for her business, potentially opening another location in Hastings or expanding her current operation with a dedicated prep kitchen.

    EIT Professional Chef Tutor Mark Caves said: “We love it when our graduates progress their career into senior roles or to open their own businesses.”

    “Courtney came to us at a young age with passion and a desire to learn the craft of cooking. It has been amazing to watch Courtney be able to stay in Hawke’s Bay, progress her career under talented local chefs and fulfil her dream like many others who have trained in our world class facilities, and under our experienced tutors.”

    “It is also encouraging to know that anyone who progresses through our range of culinary programmes from introduction to food and beverage at level 3, advanced cookery at Level 4, and Level 5 advanced diploma in cookery or patisserie, can go out into the industry with the knowledge skills and confidence to fulfil their career ambitions, whether it is a food truck, head chef or your very own patisserie shop like Courtney!”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Lifestyle and Health – Daylight Savings: More Daylight, More Opportunities to Exercise!

    Source: Exercise NZ

    As daylight saving time begins in Aotearoa on Sunday, 29th September, many people worry about the potential disruption to their routines. While some studies indicate that the time shift can negatively affect exercise habits, ExerciseNZ urges Kiwis to see it as an opportunity. With longer daylight hours, there’s more time to stay active and enhance overall well-being.

    Previous research has shown that the shift to daylight savings can disrupt sleep and exercise routines, with some people finding it difficult to adjust to the new schedule. A recent study published in the Journal of Marketing highlights that these disruptions to our body clock can lower motivation and energy levels for exercise, particularly in the first few weeks. The study suggests that during this initial period, organisations should provide extra support to consumers to help them stay active throughout the transition phase.

    Rather than seeing daylight saving as a setback, ExerciseNZ views it as an ideal opportunity to reset and embrace new routines. The extended daylight hours offer the perfect chance to enjoy outdoor activities, reconnect with nature, or take advantage of later gym sessions—all proven to boost both physical and mental well-being. Reflecting this seasonal shift, spring in Aotearoa typically brings a surge in gym memberships—rising by up to 20%, according to ExerciseNZ’s 2023 research—as people gear up for the more active summer months ahead.

    In line with global health guidelines, daylight savings also offers Kiwis a timely opportunity to align their exercise habits with public health recommendations. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week to maintain good health and prevent chronic diseases (or 75 minutes of moderate to intense activity for those who prefer higher intensity). With longer daylight and warmer days, there’s more flexibility to fit outdoor activities or gym sessions into daily routines. Whether it’s enjoying the outdoors after work or school or taking advantage of the extended hours to hit the gym, the warmer season makes it easier to stay active to reap the holistic benefits of physical activity and exercise well into the evening. Therefore, heading into daylight savings, ExerciseNZ would like to offer these three tips.

    Utilise Extended Daylight for Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the longer daylight hours to enjoy outdoor activities.  It’s also a great time to enjoy a new activity, like joining the gym or starting a yoga class.

    Adjust Slowly to New Routines: While the shift to daylight savings may disrupt sleep and exercise habits, focus on gradually adjusting your routine to maintain motivation and energy levels during the transition.

    Engage in Local Fitness Initiatives: Engage in community activities which are designed to help people stay active and make the most of the extra daylight hours.

    ExerciseNZ encourages everyone to use the shift to daylight savings as motivation to revamp their fitness routine, try new activities, and enjoy the outdoors. More daylight means more chances to prioritise your health. Daylight savings doesn’t have to disrupt your activity goals. Instead, let it remind us of the power of physical activity and how we can make the most of the changing seasons.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arts News – New exhibition at Adam Art Gallery represents an innovative moment for museum practice in Aotearoa

    Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington / Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery

    Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery launches its spring season with Vaiei Tupuna (heritage of our ancestors). This exhibition of contemporary tapa from across Moana Nui brings together newly commissioned responses to taonga from the collections of Ngā Puhipuhi o Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington Art Collection and The Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, with key historic works. Realised in collaboration with Te Papa, Vaiei Tupuna asserts the enduring wairua (spirit) of tapa’s past, present and future practitioners.

    This exhibition articulates a special moment in museum practice in Aotearoa. In late 2023, a delegation from Te Papa travelled to Tahiti with a recently acquired rare book, a 1787 tapa sampler collated by Alexander Shaw. Eleven tapa makers were invited to Tahiti to engage with the sampler and make works in response as part of a wananga titled ‘Ahu: Ngā Wairua o Hina(Tapa: The Spirit of Hina). These responses are on display for the very first time as part of Vaiei Tupuna.

    Another commission premiering in Vaiei Tupuna is new work by ‘Uhila Moe Langi Nai in response to a 24-metre long ngatu tāhina (Tongan Tapa), on display at Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery in 2023. Nai found in the ngatu a kupesi pattern inherited from her grandmother. A contemporary revisioning of the kupesi patterns used in the ngatu, Nai conceives of her new work, Hala Kafa, as an iteration of the original gift of the ngatu to the University Art Collection in 1999.

    Hina, the atua of tapa making, is also present in Vaiei Tupuna in a collaborative work by Pauline Reynolds and Sue Pearson. Hina Sings… includes an immersive experience of poetry, song and moving image projected onto a screen of ‘ahufafa tapa. The exhibition both opens and closes with the 1785 portrait of Poeatua, one of the first images of an Indigenous woman of Moana Nui to circulate in Europe. Poeatua’s presence here represents a commitment to rereading the past, restoring knowledge, honouring our tūpuna, and speaking their names.

    Exhibition details

    Vaiei Tupuna

    Cora-Allan, Dalani Tanahy, Doron Semu, Hinatea Colombani, Liviana Qaranivalu, Nikau Hindin, Pauline Reynolds, Sarah Vaki, Sue Pearson, Sulieti Fieme’a Burros, Tui Emma Gillies, ‘Uhila Moe Langi Nai.

    Curated by Isaac Te Awa, Nalani Wilson-Hokowhitu, Rosalie Koko, Rebecca Rice, Sophie Thorn

    Dates: 05.10.24 – 15.12.24

    Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery in collaboration with Te Papa                      

    Opening hours:
    Te Pātaka Toi Adam Art Gallery
    Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

    FREE ENTRY

    Group visits are welcome. If your group is larger than five people and you would like a tour or introduction to the shows, contact the gallery administrator Ann Gale on ann.gale@vuw.ac.nz or 04-463 5229.

    Address

    Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington
    Gate 3, Kelburn Parade
    Wellington 6140
    adamartgallery.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Landlord govt finds new way to undermine public housing

    Source: Green Party

    Proposed cuts to Kāinga Ora reflect a failure to fully commit to fixing the housing crisis.

    “The Government is undermining public housing and intentionally aggravating the housing crisis to benefit a privileged few at the expense of everyone else,” says the Green Party’s Housing spokesperson Tamatha Paul. 

    “Housing is a human right. Public housing has always been an important safety net for some of the most marginalised people in our communities. Public housing can help to insulate against the uncertainty and unaffordability of private rental housing and ensure that people don’t fall through the cracks and into homelessness and poverty.

    “However, this Government would rather treat housing as a business opportunity, rather than the human right that all people rely upon. They have delayed over 300 public housing projects around the country so that house prices and rents continue to rise, and landlords continue to cash in on people’s need to survive.

    “The current Government has shown little interest or ambition in building public housing. Kāinga Ora has been clear that these cuts are a result of them planning to build less housing at a time where more than 20,000 people across the country are waiting for a public home to become available.

    “These cuts will do nothing to bolster our public housing stock and address Aotearoa’s severe shortage of homes. This is a significant step backwards. 

    “As a country we must rise to the challenge of addressing the housing crisis which has left so many New Zealanders struggling for a place to live. It requires commitment to public housing as a means to end homelessness and guarantee everyone a warm and secure place to live.

    “The Government must commit to an ambitious public housing programme. We have demonstrated how it would be possible to clear the public housing waitlist by building 35,000 new healthy, affordable, public houses over the next five years.

    “The Government must commit to building more homes, not just lining the pockets of landlords,” says Tamatha Paul. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Progress on Crown Minerals is a step toward prosperity

    Source: ACT Party

    The first reading-passage of the Crown Minerals Amendment Bill is a step toward prosperity, says ACT Energy and Resources spokesman Simon Court.

    The Bill delivers on ACT coalition commitments to repeal the ban on offshore oil and gas exploration and promote the use of Crown minerals.

    “Taking full advantage of the mineral resources at our disposal will boost foreign investment, create high-paying jobs, and offer hope to young people looking to remain in New Zealand for work and family,” says Mr Court.

    “Restoring oil and gas exploration is a crucial step to deliver energy security. A high-wage economy depends on affordable and reliable energy. We came far too close to blackouts this winter, and ACT is determined to restore energy security so homes stay heated and factories keep running.

    “We support oil and gas exploration so the Greens can have jet fuel for the planes they fly to Parliament. We support mining for the minerals in iPhones so Greenpeace can livestream their protests. Above all, we support harnessing the untapped wealth beneath our feet so New Zealanders can prosper and enjoy happier, warmer lives.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Former model loving studying at EIT | EIT Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti

    Source: Eastern Institute of Technology – Tairāwhiti

    3 mins ago

    Shona Clarke, 24, is currently enrolled in the NZ Certificate of Study and Career Preparation (Hauora | Nursing/Health Pathway) (Level 4).

    A former model, who moved to Hawke’s Bay from South Africa to be close to family, is loving studying at EIT.

    Shona Clarke, 24, who appears in this year’s EIT brand campaign,  is currently enrolled in the NZ Certificate of Study and Career Preparation (Hauora | Nursing/Health Pathway) (Level 4), and hopes to study for the Bachelor of Nursing next year.

    Having arrived in Hawke’s Bay from Durban at the beginning of the year, Shona decided to follow her brother, Austin, to  EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus. Austin is currently pursuing the Bachelor of Business (Accounting). Having always had an interest in health and science, Shona enrolled in the NZ Health and Wellbeing (Level 3) programme, which she completed in June.

    She says that she found the programme “amazing”, especially placements at Graceland Rest home in Hastings and at Kōwhai Specialist School.

    “I absolutely loved it. I got to work at Graceland, which was phenomenal, but I found the love that I had for children when I did my five-week placement at Kōwhai.”

    “And then I started meeting people in the industry, and that’s how I got involved in the holiday programme at the Havelock North High School Special Needs Unit. I think I’d go into that field for sure if I wasn’t so set on the fact that I wanted to be a nurse.”

    It has been a long and varied journey for Shona who went to school in Durban, South Africa.

    “I actually came out of school and went straight into working. And six years later, I’ve decided that I’m going to study something.”

    “After school I did modelling full-time and I worked with Suncoast Casino for four years, part of their marketing team. I also modelled in Dubai for a year.”

    Some of her modelling work included brand work for Bonds, a photo shoot for Dubai Tourism and a shoot imitating Margot Robbie before the release of the Barbie movie.

    Studying at EIT is a far cry from an international modelling career, but Shona says it was a simple choice for her.

    “It was my career until my family moved here. And then I thought: ‘I’m going to move over with my family because I’m family oriented. I just want to be with them’. And then when I moved over, I said, I’m going to change my career path.

    She says that it was an easy decision to study at EIT

    And now in the Study and Career Preparation (Hauora | Nursing/Health Pathway) (Level 4) programme, Shona is glad that she made the choice.

    “ I’m absolutely loving it, because of all the science-based parts of it.”

    “That is what I think I will enjoy most about nursing, is learning about the human body, learning about how everything works, how to treat everything. It’s very interesting. I’m thoroughly enjoying it, and getting really good marks.”

    Shona says returning to study after having worked full-time for so long took some adjustment.

    “I think I fitted in quite easily with the people, but the going from working full-time, having independence, and having my own life, to going back to full-time studying, working part-time, not being fully independent, that’s a big change for me.”

    For now Shona is focused on finishing the programme and hopefully starting the Bachelor of Nursing, which she will apply for later this year.

    She is hoping to have a long career in nursing and is interested in paediatrics, surgical or even oncology, because she has had family members who have had cancer.

    As for EIT, Shona has no hesitation in recommending it as a place to study.

    “I know I’m an international student, but the support that I have felt from EIT has been amazing. And I felt so included in everything that I’ve been a part of so far, from the photoshoot for the billboards to meeting new people.”

    Les Blair, EIT Health and Wellbeing Team Leader and Verena Lyons, EIT Health and Wellbeing Team Member, say that “Shona has been an enthusiastic, bubbly student who formed positive relationships with everybody.”

    “She made the most of every opportunity offered to her and we wish her well in her study journey.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal Crash, Galloway Street, Hamilton East

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died following a crash involving one vehicle at the intersection of Galloway Street and Albert Street, Hamilton East.

    Emergency services responded around 12:15pm.

    One person was located deceased at the scene.

    The Serious Crash Unit was advised.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Arrest made, drugs seized, Southland

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detectice Sergeant Mark McCloy, Southern District Organised Crime: 

    Firearms, drugs and items consistent with drug supply have been stripped from a Winton address and a man charged following the execution of a search warrant.

    Detectives from the Southland Organised Crime Group arrested a 28-year-old man and discovered an array of firearms and the Class B drug, MDMA, on Monday 23 September.

    Three firearms which were not being handled in accordance with the firearms licensing regulations, $1,860 dollars in cash, 4.8 grams of MDMA, and items consistent with drug supply were seized.

    The man’s firearms licence has been revoked.

    A 28-year-old man has been remanded in custody due to reappear in the Invercargill District Court, Monday 28 October, on eight drug supply and driving related charges.

    This operation was designed to disrupt one of the sources of illicit drugs in our community. It was concerning to locate firearms being improperly and dangerously held.

    Holding a firearms licence is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly, it is important firearms are kept in safe and secure storage and firearms licence holders are held to a high standard.

    We will continue our work to disrupt unlawful activity in an effort to help our community feel and be safe.

    If you see any suspicious or unlawful activity please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Police, either via 111 if it’s happening now or 105 if it’s after the fact.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: SUDAN: CHILDREN UNDER FIRE AS PARTS OF COUNTRY RECORD MOST VIOLENT MONTH SINCE FEBRUARY

    Source: Save The Children

    PORT SUDAN, 24 Sept 2024 – The conflict in Sudan has seen a major increase in intensity in recent weeks, with violence hitting a seven-month high in the country, with children on the frontline, said Save the Children.

    Violent incidents include airstrikes, artillery shelling, use of explosives and remote violence in multiple regions with the majority of recent incidents reported in the state of Khartoum and North Darfur where more than 1.6 million people have been displaceds, including over 850,000 children, since the war started 17 months ago.

    In Khartoum, at least 110 distinct artillery shelling incidents were recorded in August alone, the highest number of shelling recorded in the capital since January this year.

    Save the Children analysed instances of violence recorded by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) between 6 January and 13 September [1] and found over 422 incidents of political violence reported in the past four weeks across the country – a 33% increase from incidents reported in the four weeks prior, and the most violence recorded in a single four-week period in the past seven months.

    While this period was the most violent in the last seven months of war in Sudan, the scale of the conflict has remained high throughout the year with at least 300 violent incidents reported every month. Over two-thirds of violent events in the last four weeks were recorded in Khartoum and North Darfur [2].  

    Children and the facilities they rely on have been impacted by the violence with devastating outcomes. On August 8, an artillery shelling in Wd Al Bhakit area of Khartoum injured two children, with a childcare centre hit two days later in a neighbouring area. On August 27, an unspecified number of children were abducted for ransom from Um Marrahi Masaid, Al Jazirah state. Additional incidents of violence appear in the data showing the destruction of schools, children’s hospitals and malnutrition treatment centres.

    Across North Darfur, ongoing fighting in the city of El Fasher is putting over 2.8 million civilians – including over 750,000 children – in and around the city in grave danger.

    In Zamzam displacement camp, 15 km south of El Fasher and home to some 260,000 children, rates of malnutrition are spiralling out of control. At least 34% of the children  are currently malnourished, including 10% who are severely malnourished.

    This analysis comes as Sudan’s international non-governmental organization (INGO) forum – a group of INGOs working in Sudan including Save the Children— issues a statement to UN General Assembly (UNGA) calling on the international community to increase pressure on conflict parties to facilitate immediate humanitarian access through all possible cross border and cross-line routes; establish mechanisms to protect civilians and essential infrastructure from indiscriminate attacks; and increase funding and initiatives to support communities’ responding at scale to this crisis.

    Over 10 million people have fled their homes since the conflict broke out in April 2023, making Sudan the world’s largest internal displacement crisis, affecting more than 5 million children, and over 2 million people, who have crossed into neighbouring countries. More than 20,171 people including children have been killed since the start of the conflict.

    With more than 25.6 million people across the country in need of aid, the increase in fighting coupled with widespread flooding and disease outbreaks has escalated food scarcity. In Khartoum for instance over 80% of people forced from their homes and living in shelters are urgently in need assistance, according to a recent rapid assessment conducted by UN’s World Food Programme.

    Mohamed Abdiladif, Interim Country Director for Save the Children in Sudan, said:

    “We are horrified that regions which used to be the breadbasket of the country such as Darfur and Khartoum have been turned into battlefields, leaving millions of people now just one step away from famine.

    “With famine now confirmed in North Darfur’s Zamzam camp and dire conditions reported across the country, we need urgent and unrestricted humanitarian access to save lives. The relentless conflict, displacement, and impeded aid delivery have driven the situation to catastrophic proportions, threatening the lives of hundreds of thousands across 13 states in Sudan. To curb further escalation and meet the pressing needs of those in conflict zones, it is essential that all parties lift restrictions and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access.”

    In Khartoum, Save the Children is supporting two health facilities with medicines and healthcare workers. We are also providing cash assistance to families so that they can buy food for their children. The aid agency is also implementing child protection, health and nutrition, and multi-purpose cash assistance projects in North Darfur both directly and through partners.

    Save the Children has worked in Sudan since 1983 and is currently supporting children and their families across Sudan providing health, nutrition, education, child protection and food security and livelihoods support. Save the Children is also supporting refugees from Sudan in Egypt and South Sudan. 

    Notes:

    1. Save the Children analysed data in 4-week periods working backwards to the first full week of data since the start of 2024 from the last weekly data refresh on ACLED on Friday 13 September (at the time Save the Children accessed the database on 19 September). The number of incidents of political violence in Sudan in the four weeks to 13 September was higher than in any period since the four weeks starting on 3 February, i.e. in around 7 months. 

    4- week period
    Number of political violence incidents
    17 August – 13 September
    20 July – 16 August
    22 June – 19 July
    25 May – 21 June
    27 April – 24 May
    30 March – 26 April
    2 March – 29 March
    3 February – 1 March
    6 January – 2 February

    2. Khartoum and North Darfur account for 287 (68%) of the 422 political violence events recorded from 17 August to 13 September, and 2,043 (58%) of such events recorded since 1 January. Many violent events in 2024 have also taken place in Al Jazirah state- 625 since 1 January.

    For further enquiries please contact: Delfhin Mugo in Nairobi, delfhin.mugo@savethechildren.org 

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand:

    Source: Save The Children

    PORT SUDAN, 24 Sept 2024 – The conflict in Sudan has seen a major increase in intensity in recent weeks, with violence hitting a seven-month high in the country, with children on the frontline, said Save the Children.

    Violent incidents include airstrikes, artillery shelling, use of explosives and remote violence in multiple regions with the majority of recent incidents reported in the state of Khartoum and North Darfur where more than 1.6 million people have been displaceds, including over 850,000 children, since the war started 17 months ago.

    In Khartoum, at least 110 distinct artillery shelling incidents were recorded in August alone, the highest number of shelling recorded in the capital since January this year.

    Save the Children analysed instances of violence recorded by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED) between 6 January and 13 September [1] and found over 422 incidents of political violence reported in the past four weeks across the country – a 33% increase from incidents reported in the four weeks prior, and the most violence recorded in a single four-week period in the past seven months.

    While this period was the most violent in the last seven months of war in Sudan, the scale of the conflict has remained high throughout the year with at least 300 violent incidents reported every month. Over two-thirds of violent events in the last four weeks were recorded in Khartoum and North Darfur [2].  

    Children and the facilities they rely on have been impacted by the violence with devastating outcomes. On August 8, an artillery shelling in Wd Al Bhakit area of Khartoum injured two children, with a childcare centre hit two days later in a neighbouring area. On August 27, an unspecified number of children were abducted for ransom from Um Marrahi Masaid, Al Jazirah state. Additional incidents of violence appear in the data showing the destruction of schools, children’s hospitals and malnutrition treatment centres.

    Across North Darfur, ongoing fighting in the city of El Fasher is putting over 2.8 million civilians – including over 750,000 children – in and around the city in grave danger.

    In Zamzam displacement camp, 15 km south of El Fasher and home to some 260,000 children, rates of malnutrition are spiralling out of control. At least 34% of the children  are currently malnourished, including 10% who are severely malnourished.

    This analysis comes as Sudan’s international non-governmental organization (INGO) forum – a group of INGOs working in Sudan including Save the Children— issues a statement to UN General Assembly (UNGA) calling on the international community to increase pressure on conflict parties to facilitate immediate humanitarian access through all possible cross border and cross-line routes; establish mechanisms to protect civilians and essential infrastructure from indiscriminate attacks; and increase funding and initiatives to support communities’ responding at scale to this crisis.

    Over 10 million people have fled their homes since the conflict broke out in April 2023, making Sudan the world’s largest internal displacement crisis, affecting more than 5 million children, and over 2 million people, who have crossed into neighbouring countries. More than 20,171 people including children have been killed since the start of the conflict.

    With more than 25.6 million people across the country in need of aid, the increase in fighting coupled with widespread flooding and disease outbreaks has escalated food scarcity. In Khartoum for instance over 80% of people forced from their homes and living in shelters are urgently in need assistance, according to a recent rapid assessment conducted by UN’s World Food Programme.

    Mohamed Abdiladif, Interim Country Director for Save the Children in Sudan, said:

    “We are horrified that regions which used to be the breadbasket of the country such as Darfur and Khartoum have been turned into battlefields, leaving millions of people now just one step away from famine.

    “With famine now confirmed in North Darfur’s Zamzam camp and dire conditions reported across the country, we need urgent and unrestricted humanitarian access to save lives. The relentless conflict, displacement, and impeded aid delivery have driven the situation to catastrophic proportions, threatening the lives of hundreds of thousands across 13 states in Sudan. To curb further escalation and meet the pressing needs of those in conflict zones, it is essential that all parties lift restrictions and facilitate unimpeded humanitarian access.”

    In Khartoum, Save the Children is supporting two health facilities with medicines and healthcare workers. We are also providing cash assistance to families so that they can buy food for their children. The aid agency is also implementing child protection, health and nutrition, and multi-purpose cash assistance projects in North Darfur both directly and through partners.

    Save the Children has worked in Sudan since 1983 and is currently supporting children and their families across Sudan providing health, nutrition, education, child protection and food security and livelihoods support. Save the Children is also supporting refugees from Sudan in Egypt and South Sudan. 

    Notes:

    1. Save the Children analysed data in 4-week periods working backwards to the first full week of data since the start of 2024 from the last weekly data refresh on ACLED on Friday 13 September (at the time Save the Children accessed the database on 19 September). The number of incidents of political violence in Sudan in the four weeks to 13 September was higher than in any period since the four weeks starting on 3 February, i.e. in around 7 months. 

    4- week period
    Number of political violence incidents
    17 August – 13 September
    20 July – 16 August
    22 June – 19 July
    25 May – 21 June
    27 April – 24 May
    30 March – 26 April
    2 March – 29 March
    3 February – 1 March
    6 January – 2 February

    2. Khartoum and North Darfur account for 287 (68%) of the 422 political violence events recorded from 17 August to 13 September, and 2,043 (58%) of such events recorded since 1 January. Many violent events in 2024 have also taken place in Al Jazirah state- 625 since 1 January.

    For further enquiries please contact: Delfhin Mugo in Nairobi, delfhin.mugo@savethechildren.org 

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Milestone for return of petroleum exploration

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Legislation reinstating offshore petroleum exploration has been introduced by the Coalition Government, a key step in addressing the significant energy security challenges felt by Kiwis across the country this winter.

    The Crown Minerals Amendment Bill reverses the ban on new oil and gas exploration beyond onshore Taranaki, signals the Government’s intent to reinvigorate investment in petroleum exploration, aligns decommissioning settings with best practice and provides certainty for potential investors.

    “This Bill delivers on commitments in both the National-NZ First and National-ACT coalition agreements and the Government’s promise to take urgent action to address energy security and affordability,” Resources Minister Shane Jones says.

    “Natural gas is critical to a secure and affordable supply of energy in New Zealand – now and into the future. Our gas fields are in decline and without further investment in existing and new fields to increase production, supply issues and high prices will persist when generation from our renewable energy sources is at capacity.

    “Limited gas supply doesn’t just make it more expensive to keep our lights on and our homes warm, it is squeezing our industrial users to the point that we are seeing production halting and large employers in regional New Zealand having to close their doors.

    “On top of removing the exploration ban, this legislation will better balance the regulatory burden, risk of decommissioning and give the regulator more flexibility in how exploration permits are issued, giving the sector confidence to get to work.

    “Our petroleum and mineral resources contribute billions of dollars to New Zealand’s GDP, create high-paying jobs and opportunities to develop skills and help to diversify regional economies. I’m not willing to let the significant benefits of this sector pass us by.” 

    A new tier of mineral permitting that will make it easier for people to undertake small-scale non-commercial gold mining activity is also introduced through the Bill.

    The Bill is expected to have its first reading this morning and will be referred to select committee with the aim of passing legislation by the end of this year. To achieve this, the select committee process will be undertaken in a condensed timeframe.

    For more information on the Bill, see 2024 Proposed amendments to the Crown Minerals Act 1991 | Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (mbie.govt.nz)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Facial Recognition – Privacy Commissioner’s comment on FRT trial

    Source: Office of the Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster is now evaluating the results of Foodstuff North Island’s trial of Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) to better understand its privacy impacts and compliance with the Privacy Act.
    The Commissioner announced his Inquiry into FRT use in 25 supermarkets in April this year after Foodstuffs North Island sought to use FRT to help reduce retail crime.
    The Inquiry has involved working with Foodstuffs staff in head office, as well as visits to 10 stores by Office of the Privacy Commissioner staff. The visits helped clarify how this technology practically works in stores, and what results are being seen.
    “Like everyone, we want people to be safe as they shop or work. My interest is also ensuring that customers can shop with a clear understanding of how and when their personal information is being collected and used, so they can make choices based on that”.
    The Office of the Privacy Commissioner will review its own data alongside the results from the independent evaluator who designed and oversaw the trial.
    A key aspect of the Commissioner’s Inquiry is to make sure the use of FRT is compliant with the Privacy Act and that the privacy and data protection safeguards and controls that Foodstuffs North Island have in place can manage privacy risks.
    Regardless of what information-collecting technology is used, it still requires an element of human action. Staff in store still need to approach customers they think have been stealing. People have emotional, sometimes violent reactions, and technology won’t change that.
    The Commissioner stated at the announcement of the trial that he had concerns about racial bias and how the use of FRT might impact Māori, Pasifika, Indian, and Asian shoppers especially because the software is not trained on New Zealand’s population. Examining how the use of FRT in trial stores impacts on these shoppers is part of our assessment.
    “The retail sector has always innovated to keep customers safe because often greater customer trust equals a strong brand, which equals more sales. I’m not saying don’t innovate, but instead let’s be clear about the consequences of the technology you’re choosing before you go ahead.”
    “I know from our latest privacy survey of New Zealanders that they’re more concerned about privacy issues than they were two years ago. Almost half (49%) had concerns about the use of FRT in retail stores to identify individuals and 82% want the right to ask a business to delete their personal information.
    “That says to me that New Zealanders are aware, and they care about their privacy. They want to have ownership and control over their sensitive and personal information.
    “At the start of the trial we didn’t know whether FRT would do what the stores wanted because the evidence wasn’t clear. I need to know whether the trial has made a significant difference to the incidence of serious retail crime compared with other less privacy intrusive options.”
    “My review of the information we’ve collected, and the independent evaluator’s report will likely clarify that and give New Zealanders a clear idea of the way forward.
    The Commissioner expects to announce his findings before the end of this year.
    Note

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash on Pohuehue Road, Puhoi

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are at the scene of a three-vehicle crash near Puhoi this morning.

    One person has died, and another person is being taken to hospital with serious injuries.

    The crash was reported on Pohuehue Road at around 6.13am.

    Initially, two vehicles collided in the crash.

    The driver of one vehicle has sadly died at the scene, with the driver of the second vehicle suffering serious injuries. They have been transported to Auckland City Hospital.

    A third vehicle has had a secondary crash at the scene.

    The occupants of the third vehicle are shaken but have not required transport to hospital.

    A section of Pohuehue Road is currently closed while the Serious Crash Unit carry out an examination of the scene.

    Traffic is being diverted at the intersection with Mahurangi West Road, which is to the north of the crash scene.

    Traffic is being turned around at the southern end of the scene.

    Police advise motorists to avoid the area if possible as it is expected the road will be closed for some time this morning.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government Cuts – Govt blind to risks as science cuts leave Kiwis more vulnerable to natural disasters – PSA

    Source: PSA

    ● GNS Science cuts net 59 jobs
    ● Tally of science roles axed by Govt now over 400
    ● Govt ignores pleas of international science community
    GNS Science today confirmed final decisions that will see a net 59 roles, around 10% of its workforce, cut, including principal and senior scientists, geologists, geophysicists, geochemists, technicians and support staff.
    “The Government is wilfully blind to the damage its attack on science is wreaking on our ability to be prepared for future earthquakes or tsunamis,” said Duane Leo, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “GNS Science is losing some of our best and brightest geohazard scientists, some with decades of experience. Some will likely move abroad to countries like Australia, where science is recognised as a vital contributor to the economy.
    “This should be all about protecting New Zealand long term, not saving money in the short term. It’s just more cold, hard evidence of this government’s failure to grapple with the serious challenges we face as a country.”
    GNS scientists play a crucial role in enhancing our understanding of geohazard threats. Their work contributes to the National Seismic Hazard Model, which is key to assessing risks to public safety and the economy, while strengthening New Zealand’s resilience to seismic events.
    As one experienced GNS scientist put it: “The underpinning research we do supports government and industry to understand and plan for risk. The research improves knowledge of how and where to build resilient infrastructure and helps to reduce the impact of natural hazards on people and property.
    “We’re recognised internationally for our foundational research in earth sciences and punch well above our weight. These changes threaten the progress we’ve made.
    “The loss of expertise is a huge blow for our earth science community. How can we keep attracting young talent when experienced scientists are being let go?”
    The Government’s cuts have shocked the international science community – 85 scientists from seven countries have written an open letter to the Government stating that the cuts risk ‘compromising essential geoscientific expertise and partnerships needed to address geohazards risks, which is critical for a country whose economy and community safety is so vulnerable to earthquakes, volcanoes, and climate change’.
    “It’s extremely embarrassing that respected scientists from around the world can see the huge value GNS scientists provide to our country, but the Government can’t,” said Duane Leo.
    “Yet again it proves that these cuts are more about saving money than harnessing the long-term benefits of science and research. The Government would rather give a handout to landlords and big tobacco than a hand up to our scientists. It’s shameful.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Privacy Commissioner’s comment on FRT trial

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster is now evaluating the results of Foodstuff North Islands trial of Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) to better understand its privacy impacts and compliance with the Privacy Act. The Commissioner announced his Inquiry into FRT use in 25 supermarkets in April this year after Foodstuffs North Island sought to use FRT to help reduce retail crime. The inquiry has involved working with Foodstuffs staff in head office, as well as visits to 10 stores by Office of the Privacy Commissioner staff. The visits helped clarify how this technology practically works in stores, and what results are being seen. Like everyone, we want people to be safe as they shop or work. My interest is also ensuring that customers can shop with a clear understanding of how and when their personal information is being collected and used, so they can make choices based on that.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New roundabout on SH1/3 near completion as final resurfacing works take place

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Final night-time asphalt resurfacing works at the new roundabout on State Highway 1/3 are set to get underway this week.

    From Friday 27 September, roading crews will be applying a final layer of asphalt to the roundabout, re-linemarking and also resealing a section of the northbound lane of SH1/3 between Bulls and Sanson, in Manawatū.

    Crews will be working this Friday night and then from Sunday nights to Friday mornings, between the hours of 7pm – 6am. These works are due to be completed on Friday 11 October (weather permitting).

    During work times, stop/go traffic management including lane shifts and a temporary speed limit of 30km/h will be in place on SH1/3, and at Pukenui Road that leads into RNZAF Base Ohakea.

    Delays of up to 10 minutes can be expected.

    These works are weather dependant and may be rescheduled due to wet weather or cold weather.

    In July, we indicated crews would return to the roundabout during the warmer, drier months to apply the final layer of asphalt through the roundabout. Those warmer temperatures are needed to ensure the best quality asphalt finish possible.

    Please also expect some ongoing temporary traffic management on SH1/3 as a result of our Ohakea Commercial Vehicle Safety Centre (CVSC) works.

    In the coming weeks, crews plan to carry out works to install in-road scales at 2 locations on SH1/3 (south of Wilson Road, and north of the Bulls Bridge). These scales weigh trucks as they drive over them.

    Continued installation works on the electronic signage and automatic number plate recognition cameras will also take place. Temporary traffic management, including a reduced 30km/h speed limit and short periods of night-time stop/go, will be in place at these locations, with minimal disruption expected.

    Bulls to Sanson saftey improvements – Permanent roundabout and road layout

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Local News – Lower Hutt Comes Together at Inaugural City Summit

    Source: Hutt City Council

    The inaugural Lower Hutt City Summit has united more than 200 community representatives to shape a shared vision for the future of Te Awa Kairangi ki Tai Lower Hutt.
    Those involved come from businesses, government agencies, community groups, sports clubs, non-government organisations and local residents.
    The summit, held at the Lower Hutt Events Centre, started public engagement for Tō Tātou Tāone 2055/Our City 2055, an ambitious strategy setting out 30-year aspirations for our people and place.
    Mayor Campbell Barry says now is the right time to unite the community.
    “Times are tough, and people are feeling the strain. That’s why it’s vital we come together now – not just to tackle our current challenges, but to lay the foundation for a future that our tamariki and mokopuna will thank us for.
    “The summit brought together a wide range of perspectives and experiences from across the city, showing that collaboration is key to overcome the challenges we face. There was a lot of optimism in the room, with clear pride in being from the Hutt.
    “With the collective wisdom, and more importantly, the collective action of our people – we can flip our biggest challenges into our biggest opportunities and create a future to be proud of.”
    Those attending the summit took part in interactive workshops centred around the question “what can we do today that future generations will thank us for?”
    They also heard from speakers Mayor Barry, Tumu Whakarae | Chief Executive Officer Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika Kara Puketapu-Dentice, WelTec student Huliana Whonu Fanua, and Victoria University Adjunct Professor Girol Karacaoglu.
    Huliana Whonu Fanua spoke to the importance of strengthening the identity and culture of our youth.
    “A thriving city doesn’t just look like economic growth, lots of people or flash new infrastructure. It’s a city where its people feel valued,” she said.
    “I want this for the youth of today. I want their identity to drive them to where they’re meant to be,” she said.
    Their insights, along with contributions from the attendees, laid the foundation for the collective approach that will inform the development of Our City 2055.
    With the launch of engagement for Tō Tātou Tāone 2055 / Our City 2055, Hutt City Council will be continuing to engage with a wide range of people in our community, including Mana Whenua, key stakeholders and Lower Hutt’s diverse communities.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Auckland News – Hapū-led partnership launched to protect globally significant ecosystems and endangered species of the Kaipara

    Source: Auckland Council

    Launch of Poipoia Te Kākano – A groundbreaking hapū-led initiative for the Kaipara

    A partnership agreement to protect the delicate ecosystems and endangered species of the Kaipara catchment, an area of global ecological significance, was signed into effect today between its key partners Te Uri o Hau, Te Roroa, Ngā Maunga Whakahii,  Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, and the Department of Conservation.

    The historic agreement was signed at Te Hana Te Ao Marama Marae, a significant cultural place that reflects commitment to community-driven conservation.

    The initial aim of the partnership, named Puawai ki Kaipara, is to rid the five pivotal peninsulas (105,000 hectares) encircling the Kaipara Harbour of pest animals, including possums, rats, stoats, weasels, ferrets, pigs, and feral cats. The project then plans to extend into the entire Kaipara catchment area – an additional 543,000 hectares.  

    The area’s delicate ecosystems provide refuge for many endangered species, including the tara iti (fairy tern), mātātā (North Island fernbird), and kiwi. The coastal dunes and dune lakes along the western coast provide habitat for matuku-hūrepo (Australasian bittern), moho pererū (banded rail), tūturiwhatu (New Zealand dotterel), and other species.

    Kaipara Moana is a migratory bird habitat of international significance. Rare species, such as the kuaka (bar-tailed godwit), use the harbour for feeding in summer before returning to the northern hemisphere to breed, while the wetland areas provide feeding and roosting grounds for migratory waders.

    Auckland Council Policy and Planning Committee Chair, Councillor Richard Hills says the support Auckland Council is providing Poipoia Te Kākano will help align community and council activities on this important environmental initiative.

    “Poipoia Te Kākano is about working together for the protection of the special ecosystems inhabited by many endangered indigenous species that are pressured by introduced pest animals,” Cr Hills says.  

    “This initiative will focus on predator control, restoring native species and protecting an ecological sanctuary that acts as a haven for migratory birdlife from all over the world, and as nature’s corridor between Auckland and Northland. What we do to protect this precious area has a flow-on effect for other ecologically significant areas in Aotearoa,” he says.

    Auckland Council General Manager Environmental Services Samantha Hill says the partnership represents a shared goal to protect ecosystems and species that are profoundly important.

    “The dunes, lakes and the surrounding forest and wetlands are of cultural and ecological significance to so many. As caretakers of the natural environment, we have a collective responsibility to protect and restore it, and the taonga species that live within it,” she says.

    “We are uniting in this partnership to align our efforts and resources so that we can make a lasting impact, by working together to more effectively control a range of pest animals that threaten this taonga.”  

    Poipoia Te Kākano Project Lead Victoria Kurupō comments, “Our combined partnership has emerged from one united goal: to combat the predator invasions threatening the region’s biodiversity, and reflects our guiding philosophy, embodied in the whakatauki “Poipoia te Kākano, Kia Puāwai”, meaning “Nurture the seed and it will blossom”.

    “Our work is deeply rooted in the principles of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and mātauranga (traditional knowledge). This initiative is about creating a sustainable future for both our environment and our communities,” she says.    

    “With support from Predator Free 2050 Ltd, we have made significant strides in assessing and planning our predator elimination strategies, and an intensive feasibility study has guided us in identifying the needs of each peninsula.”    

    Ms Kurupō adds that the initial focus on the five Kaipara Peninsulas – Poutō, Hukatere (Tinopai), Puketōtara (Ōneriri), Ōkahukura (Tāporapora), and Te Korowai o Tonga (South Head) is inspired by the legendary taniwha Pokopoko Whiti te Rā.

    Kia Puawai ki Kaipara (the partnership) is a Kaipara Uri-led, Tiriti o Waitangi partnership comprising Te Uri o Hau, Ngā Maunga Whakahii, Te Roroa, Auckland Council, Northland Regional Council, and the Department of Conservation. It is one of two Māori-led Predator Free 2050 projects in Auckland.

    Read this and other stories on OurAuckland: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weather News – Springtime weather continues its vigorous run across New Zealand – MetService

    Source: MetService

    Covering period of Thursday 19 – Sunday 22 September – MetService is forecasting more active spring weather across Aotearoa New Zealand, with showers, thunderstorms, and strong winds on the horizon. However, for many, Saturday brings a break in the weather and a chance to enjoy the other side of what spring has to offer.  

    The western South Island is set for another round of wet conditions. MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane elaborates, “Many parts of the West Coast and Fiordland have experienced rain nearly every day this month, with year-to-date rainfall already tracking above average. The coming days, including Thursday, Friday, and the weekend, are likely to follow the same pattern with more rain from the west and the possibility of heavier falls during thunderstorms.”

    While the wet weather is approaching from the west, few areas of the country will manage to escape rain or showers in the days ahead. Thunderstorms are also expected to make an appearance. In addition to the western South Island, Tasman and the Marlborough Sounds could see thunderstorms on Friday, while much of the North Island, including Auckland, may experience thunderstorms Friday afternoon or evening. Wellington and the eastern North Island look to be the exceptions.

    Sharp westerly winds have been a common feature of spring 2024 so far and this continues on Thursday and Friday, especially for the North Island. “Road users, especially those in Auckland, may do well to check any impacts to road conditions on Waka Kotahi NZTA’s website,” Makgabutlane advised. Saturday brings a brief respite before things pick up again on Sunday.

    “In fact, Saturday is shaping up to be the pick of the weekend, with the strongest winds easing and the wettest weather largely confined to the western South Island. At this time of year, it’s always a good idea to make the most of any fine weather, as the next spell of unsettled conditions is never far behind,” Makgabutlane says.

    This seems to ring true, as rain and showers look set to spread northwards up the country on Sunday, bringing a damp period for some to end the weekend.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –