NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Parliament Bill passes first reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Parliament Bill has passed its first reading this afternoon, Leader of the House Chris Bishop says. 

    “Today Parliament has taken an important step towards modernising the legislation that supports its operations. 

    “The Parliament Bill will consolidate and modernise the four Acts comprising Parliament’s statutory framework: the Clerk of the House of Representatives Act 1988, the Parliamentary Service Act 2000, the Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Services) Act 2013, and the Parliamentary Privilege Act 2014.

    Other important changes in the Bill include:

    • Updating the functions of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker to clarify when the functions and duties of the Speaker are carried out by the Deputy;
    • Modernising the statutory functions of the Clerk of the House;
    • Providing Parliamentary Security Officers with statutory powers similar to those of court security officers, and
    • Transferring to the Electoral Commission the role of determining whether a petition carries the required number of signatures to trigger a referendum.

    “I am pleased to see this Bill receive unanimous support from across the House. When dealing with matters regarding how Parliament is run, we want to ensure a bipartisan, constructive approach. I thank Members for their contributions to this Bill and to the first reading debate today.

    “As part of the cross-party collaborative approach to this Bill, it has been agreed that a special select committee will be created with representatives from every parliamentary party to consider it. The Government intends to nominate former Speaker of the House, Rt Hon Adrian Rurawhe, to chair this committee.

    “The Bill has now been referred to the special select committee for six months and I hope to pass it into law in 2025.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – New species of NZ ghost shark discovered – NIWA

    Source: NIWA

    Scientists have found a new ghost shark that lives exclusively in the deep waters of Australia and New Zealand.
    The Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish was described by NIWA Fisheries Scientist Dr Brit Finucci.
    It was previously thought to be part of a single globally distributed species, until research revealed it is genetically and morphologically different to its cousins.
    Dr Finucci gave it the scientific name Harriotta avia in memory of her grandmother.
    “Avia means grandmother in Latin; I wanted to give this nod to her because she proudly supported me through my career as a scientist. Chimaeras are also rather ancient relatives – the grandmas and grandpas – of fish and I thought the name was well suited,” said Dr Finucci.
    Ghost sharks, or chimaeras, are a group of cartilaginous fish closely related to sharks and rays. Other names for these mysterious animals include ratfish, rabbitfish and elephant fish.
    They have smooth skin, free of scales, and feed off crustaceans such as shrimp and molluscs with their distinctive beak-like teeth.
    ” Harriotta avia is unique due to its elongated, narrow and depressed snout; long, slender trunk; large eyes; and very long, broad pectoral fins. It is a lovely chocolate brown colour.
    “Ghost sharks like this one are largely confined to the ocean floor, living in depths of up to 2,600m. Their habitat makes them hard to study and monitor, meaning we don’t know a lot about their biology or threat status, but it makes discoveries like this even more exciting,” said Dr Finucci.
    The specimens were collected in the Chatham Rise off New Zealand’s coast during research surveys for Fisheries New Zealand. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Defence News – Mortars and machine guns pack the punch in latest Fiji-New Zealand Army exercise – NZDF

    Source: New Zealand Defence Force

    Nearly 50 New Zealand Army personnel have returned from Fiji following a valuable week of mortar and machine gun tactical training exercises.

    Exercise Cartwheel involved soldiers from 16th Field Regiment, Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery and 1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment delivering training courses to Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) personnel, to further build their 81mm mortar and sustained-fire machine gun capabilities.

    The exercise culminated with a live fire exercise in the Nausori Highlands, which was a prime opportunity for RFMF and NZ Army soldiers to not only put theory into practice, but also enhance the relationship between the two forces and their ability to work together in a jungle warfare environment.

    1 (NZ) Brigade Commander, Colonel Ben Bagley, was in Fiji for part of the exercise and says these opportunities are invaluable.

    “Purely on a tactical and technical level, any opportunity to get our soldiers into the field and put their skills into practice is fantastic, but Exercise Cartwheel is much more than just that. It allows us to spend some valuable time with one of our key Pacific partners in the RFMF and enhance our interoperability,” Colonel Bagley said.

    “The feedback we receive from the RFMF has always been positive around this exercise, and we equally value the opportunity to come and learn from our partners – it goes both ways.”

    Exercise Cartwheel is an annual RFMF-US Army Pacific bilateral exercise designed to train, assess and build light infantry and combat support warfighting capability. Fiji and the US are the main participants. Partner nations like Australia and the United Kingdom also regularly take part, with the NZ Army involved in the past three editions.

    “Getting the opportunity to link up with our partners for these exercises in the field is critical for our relationships in the region, because fundamentally we – Ngāti Tūmatauenga, the New Zealand Army – are from, and of the Pacific. What happens here is of huge significance to us all,” Colonel Bagley said.

    “We’d like to thank our friends and partners in the RFMF for their continued trust and support in us, and welcoming us back here every year. The camaraderie between our people is as strong as ever, and we look forward to the next opportunity to link up.”

    Commanding Officer 3rd Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment (3FIR), Lieutenant Colonel Atunaisa Vakatale, says the exercise marks another milestone in the defence partnership of both nations, and reflects the understanding, trust and shared vision between both armies.

    “It also highlights the successful transfer of knowledge and skills, and the completion of training objectives that immensely contributes to the readiness and capabilities of both forces,” Lieutenant Colonel Vakatale said.

    “I am certain the training activities over the past three weeks have not only further enhanced our cooperation and interoperability, but it has also set the conditions for more people-to-people connections and networking amongst our troops.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Greenpeace seabed mining protest extends to a second site

    Source: Greenpeace

    After five Greenpeace activists occupied the Wellington offices of mining lobby group Straterra to protest seabed mining by its client Trans Tasman Resources today, two more have scaled a tower near Parliament and deployed a 22-meter banner that reads No Seabed Mining.
    Greenpeace says today’s action is “a demonstration of the resistance promised” in a recently published open letterto all companies considering using the Fast Track Approvals process.
    Spokesperson Juressa Lee says that while today’s focus has been on Trans Tasman Resources and their plan to mine the seabed of the South Taranaki Bight, it should also be a warning to any company considering using the Fast Track approvals process that they will face resistance.
    Earlier in the day, three Greenpeace activists gained entry to the Straterra HQ and locked it from the inside to prevent entry. They then proceeded to tweet images from a Straterra document outlining its intention to influence Government policy and clear the way for mining on the seabed and on conservation land.
    Meanwhile, two more activists climbed onto the awning outside the Straterra offices and firefighters and erected a large banner reading No Seabed Mining.
    All five activists at the Straterra building were eventually arrested by police.
    Australian mining company TTR is vying to mine 50 million tons of iron sands in the South Taranaki Bight every year for 30 years. The company has made no secret of the fact it will use the much-maligned Fast Track Bill to get a green light after years of opposition by Taranaki hapū, environmentalists, the fishing industry and marine mammal experts.
    Greenpeace Aotearoa spokesperson Juressa Lee said, “We’re taking this action to highlight the danger that Trans-Tasman Resources may slip through the Fast Track process, despite years of community opposition and rejection by the courts.
    “We’re also highlighting the role played by the mining industry lobbyist Straterra, which has the ear of this government and is pushing this extractive, polluting project.
    “Straterra is a malignant force in New Zealand politics, operating in the shadows and backrooms to exert a pernicious influence over Government policies. Straterra’s stated objectives would shock all New Zealanders who value the natural world and a healthy democracy.
    “Today, we have dragged Straterra’s dirty business into the sunlight and expose their malevolent intentions for all to see.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Porirua City – Local councillors briefed on water reform

    Source: Porirua City Council

    This week briefings to councillors in Wellington, Porirua and Lower Hutt will outline the challenges they face as they consider a joint water services delivery plan in response to the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy. Greater Wellington Regional councillors were briefed last week.
    The briefing sessions focus on the changes to legislation, scale of the challenge, implications around funding and pricing and are to prepare councillors for significant decisions ahead.
    Nine councils in the Wellington region and Horowhenua District are working together to consider a joint water services delivery plan which must be developed by September 2025. The councils collectively represent more than 500,000 people.
    Work is being led by the region’s Advisory Oversight Group (AOG) made up of elected members and Iwi/ Māori representatives.
    Dame Kerry Prendergast, Independent Chair of the region’s Advisory Oversight Group says all councils are committed to the process and working at pace to ensure the right approach to water management is reached.
    “We are committed to an enduring solution, as a sustainable and long-term approach is required to address the challenges our water networks face – now and into the future,” Dame Kerry said.
    “Our region has a significant backlog of investment needed in three waters infrastructure,” Dame Kerry said.
    “Currently over 20 percent of the region’s water assets are worn out and needing replacement, which presents significant risk of major services failures. If we don’t fix the network, we will keep on seeing major pipe failures like at Day’s Bay and Kent Terrace or ongoing challenges like at the Seaview wastewater treatment plant.
    “Significant investment in water is going to be needed over the next 20 years. We know that this will be really challenging and we will have to work closely with contractors and suppliers to grow the workforce, explore new delivery models and find new and lower cost solutions.
    “Our preliminary analysis of the water network and the level of investment needed highlights that there are no quick fixes – this will take sustained effort,” Dame Kerry said.
    “We know what people pay for water will need to rise and we are looking at a range of options and scenarios to keep this affordable.
    “This is why it’s imperative that councils work together, despite each facing different issues. Some councils have challenges now, some have challenges to come in the future. This is a long game, and working together, at scale, gives us the best chance to work our way out of the current water infrastructure situation.”
    New funding arrangements announced by the Government on 8 August for water organisations through the Local Government Funding Agency mean that if councils set up a new delivery organisation these will have access to additional debt funding.
    There are some real positives to this change, Dame Kerry said. “The investment will enable growth and new home building; it will create a lot of jobs in the region. Over the next 20 years, about 44 percent of the network could be replaced, building significant resilience for future earthquakes. The investment will also address the region’s critical water shortage challenges through meters, increased water storage, and fixing leaks.”
    Local Water Done Well is the Government’s plan for water reform and requires councils to develop water service delivery plans by September 2025. It is being implemented in three stages, each with its own piece of legislation. The second stage is underway, with the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Act passed into law on 2 September.
    The report outlining the regional option for water service delivery will be finalised and released in October, for each council to then consider and make decisions. These decisions will shape the next steps for the region.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Investments and Awards – Milford KiwiSaver Rated #1 for Customer

    Source: Canstar

    Satisfaction and Returns September 24, 2024:

    Congratulations to Milford for achieving a remarkable hat-trick across Canstar’s 2024 KiwiSaver Awards. For the fifth year in a row, Milford is the winner of two of Canstar’s top KiwiSaver awards:

    However, this year, these two accolades, which are awarded by our expert financial research team, sit alongside another win for Milford: Canstar’s Most Satisfied Customers Award | KiwiSaver, which is based on consumer feedback from over 3000 KiwiSaver members.

    In awarding Milford top honours across all three award categories, our research team noted that Milford’s KiwiSaver fund returns are consistently among the highest over the 5-year observation period used in our methodology. And, in addition, Milford delivers high levels of support, both online and through its app, and a wide range of investment options to customers. It’s this investor-driven focus and excellent customer service that has earned Milford its Most Satisfied Customers Award.

    Tom Slee, Canstar Group Manager – Wealth, Health & New Zealand says, “KiwiSaver isn’t just about retirement; from the start of their working lives, Kiwis should take an active interest in their KiwiSaver providers, schemes and investments, to ensure they’re setting themselves up for a secure financial future.

    “And thanks to Milford’s great returns, tools and advice, it’s not difficult to make informed decisions about your KiwiSaver, and to ensure that you’re achieving market-leading returns on your investments.”

    Murray Harris, Head of KiwiSaver and Distribution at Milford says, “Everyone at Milford is so excited on behalf of our KiwiSaver members to have scooped the pools this year with Canstar’s awards, winning all three.

    “But we are particularly pleased to have been awarded the Most Satisfied Customers Award, because this is our KiwiSaver members saying they’re very happy with the great returns and excellent service the Milford team provides. And, of course, we’ll be continuing to work hard to retain the trust and confidence of our members into the future.”

    Outstanding Value KiwiSaver Scheme Award Winner: Fisher Funds

    KiwiSaver Provider of the Year

    Outstanding Value KiwiSaver Scheme

    Fisher Funds is also celebrating an unbroken run of Canstar KiwiSaver Award wins. Its Fisher Funds KiwiSaver Plan

    • has won our Outstanding Value KiwiSaver Scheme Award for five years in a row, and its Fisher Funds TWO
    • KiwiSaver Scheme for three consecutive years. The award celebrates KiwiSaver schemes that deliver outstanding
    • value, features and performance across balanced, conservative and growth profiles.

    Nilesh Mistry, Chief Client Officer at Fisher Funds, says, “Our focus at Fisher Funds is on delivering relentlessly for our clients in terms of their investments, and the services we provide. We know our clients have ambitions for both home ownership and retirement, and KiwiSaver is integral to achieving these goals. To have the value we provide acknowledged for the third and fifth year in a row for two of our KiwiSaver schemes is a real source of pride for the whole team.”

    Canstar’s KiwiSaver Awards

    Canstar’s research team assesses the winner of its Provider of the Year Award

    Scheme Awards using a bespoke rating methodology, covering 20 providers, 23 schemes and 141 funds. The Most

    Satisfied Customers Award is based on feedback from 3106 KiwiSaver members across 15 providers.

    The full list of Canstar’s 2024 KiwiSaver awards winners: Provider of the Year: Milford

    Outstanding Value KiwiSaver Schemes: Fisher Funds KiwiSaver Plan, Fisher Funds TWO KiwiSaver Scheme, Milford KiwiSaver Plan

    5-Star Rated Individual Fund Providers: ANZ, BNZ, Booster, Fisher Funds, Milford, Nikko AM

    Canstar’s KiwiSaver awards are designed to help consumers make more informed financial choices and sit alongside Canstar’s other awards, covering banking, insurance and KiwiSaver products. Click here for more information on all our award winners:

    https://www.canstar.co.nz/kiwisaver/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stats NZ information release: Injury statistics – work-related claims: 2023

    Source: Statistics New Zealand

    Injury statistics – work-related claims: 2023 – 24 September 2024 – Injury statistics for work-related claims give information about claims accepted by ACC for work-related injuries.

    Key facts

    • A total of 226,600 work-related injury claims were made in 2023 (up 1,200 from 2022).
    • The incidence rate for claims related to work-related injuries was 86 claims per 1,000 full-time equivalent employees (FTEs) in 2023. This is the lowest rate since the start of the series in 2002.
    • The manufacturing; agriculture, forestry, and fishing; and construction industries had the highest incidence rates of work-related injury claims in 2023.
    • Trades workers had the highest number of claims by occupation in 2023, with 39,000 claims.

    Visit our website to read this information release:

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business – Ārohia Trailblazers set to forge path to global markets

    Source: Callaghan Innovation

    Callaghan Innovation will support seven trailblazing Kiwi businesses with bold ideas to succeed in global markets, while forging new pathways for like-minded Kiwi innovators.

    Minister for Science, Innovation and Technology, Judith Collins announced the Ārohia Trailblazer grant recipients at the New Zealand Aerospace Summit today in Christchurch.

    Callaghan Innovation has allocated $17.5 million in co-funding to Astrix Astronautics, Basis NZ,  Emrod, Fabrum Solutions, Toku Eyes, Zincovery Process Technologies and Zenno Astronautics. The Ārohia Trailblazer

    Innovation Grant supports businesses that are benefiting the Aotearoa New Zealand innovation ecosystem, and have global potential.

    “Congratulations to these Kiwi innovators who have developed these impressive, and ambitious innovations with the potential for success here and in global markets.

    “We look forward to following their success as they inspire and enable other, like-minded ambitious innovators,” says Callaghan Innovation Chief Product Officer, Brett Calton.

    “These trailblazers represent diverse sectors, including HealthTech, CleanTech and aerospace, that are growing and have the potential to make a bigger impact globally.”

    About the recipients:

    Astrix Astronautics
    Astronautics | Auckland | astrix.space

    Astrix Astronautics design unique, reliable high performance power systems for small satellites using a state-of-the art inflatable deployment mechanism that delivers solar power to mega-constellations.

    Basis NZ Limited
    Cleantech | Auckland | wearebasis.com

    Basis has developed the world’s first residential Smart Panel, enabling homeowners to reduce their electricity costs, make their homes dramatically safer and lower barriers to adopting electrification technologies (EV, battery & solar).  

    Emrod Limited
    Hi-tech Engineering | Auckland | emrod.energy

    Emrod is pioneering the transition to a wireless, global energy network. Its technology is hardware for wirelessly sending large amounts of power over long distances, safely and efficiently. Just as the internet transformed communication, wireless power will transform the world’s ability to generate and use energy.

    Fabrum Solutions Limited
    Hi-tech Engineering | Christchurch | fabrum.nz

    The fundamental technologies that Fabrum has developed leverage over 20 years of composite and cryogenic discovery. The company has developed a very desirable library of patents and trade secrets, including cryocoolers, refuelling technologies, liquefiers and storage systems for hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and LNG. Fabrum operates around the globe with 80% of its product made in New Zealand and exported globally.

    Toku Eyes Limited
    Healthtech | Auckland | tokueyes.com

    Toku has developed a product that can identify individuals with elevated chronic kidney disease risk (CKD) using retinal fundus images only. Commercialisation of this AI medical device will remove the need for blood and urine test to identify high-risk CKD individuals, enabling preventative care to avoid costly debilitating kidney failure.

    Zincovery Process Technologies Limited
    Cleantech | Christchurch | zincovery.com

    Zincovery is looking to bring the first 100% recycled, low carbon and high purity zinc product to the market. This is enabled by their innovative zinc recycling technology that avoids the use of fossil fuels, reducing emissions by up to 95% and processing costs by 45%.

    Zenno Astronautics Limited
    Astronautics | Auckland | zenno.space

    Zenno is building the future of agile and sustainable operations in space. They have developed a patented technology based on superconducting magnets that enables spacecraft operators to reduce their costs while also increasing their mission value.

     For more information visit: arohia.govt.nz

    About Callaghan Innovation

    Callaghan Innovation is New Zealand’s innovation agency. It activates innovation and helps businesses grow faster for a better New Zealand.  The government agency partners with ambitious businesses of all sizes, delivering a range of innovation and research and development (R&D) services to suit each stage of their growth. Its staff – including more than 150 of New Zealand’s leading scientists and engineers – empower innovators by connecting people, opportunities and networks, and providing tailored technical solutions, skills and capability development programmes, and grants co-funding. Callaghan Innovation also enhances the operation of New Zealand’s innovation ecosystem, working closely with MBIE, NZTE, NZVIF, Crown Research Institutes, and other organisations that help increase business investment in R&D and innovation. The agency operates from five urban offices and a regional partner network in a further 12 locations across Aotearoa.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Charge laid following threatening email, Andersons Bay, Dunedin

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A teenager is due to appear in court after a threatening email was sent to Bayfield High School this morning.

    Police were alerted to the incident at 8.17am.

    Around 550 students and staff from the college were escorted from the premises with assistance from Police.

    At around 1.30pm this afternoon, Police executed a search warrant at a Dunedin property where the youth was arrested without incident.

    “We understand incidents like this can be distressing, and we hope this arrest can provide reassurance to the community,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Nik Leigh.

    Police is providing those involved with support and will continue to investigate what has taken place. 

    A 16-year-old is due to appear in Dunedin Youth Court on Thursday 26 September, facing a charge of threatening to kill.

    “Police is working with the school and further charges may be likely.”

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Serious Crash, State highway 2, Tutira

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police are responding to a two vehicle crash on State Highway 2 near Matahorua Road, Tutira, Hastings.

    Police received the report around 6:15pm.

    Two people are reported to be in a serious condition.

    The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

    The road is closed and motorists are advised to take an alternate route.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Significant progress on SH1/29 intersection upgrade

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Motorists and freight will now drive through a new roundabout at the SH1/SH29 intersection at Piarere, marking a major milestone for one of the Government’s Roads of Regional Significance that will improve safety and reliability for motorists and freight using this strategic corridor, Transport Minister Simeon Brown says.

    “The Government is committed to delivering infrastructure that boosts economic growth, reduces congestion, and creates a safer and more reliable transport network,” Mr Brown says. 

    “Great progress has been made on the construction of this 60-metre-wide roundabout since we kicked off construction in January this year to improve safety and wait times for people travelling through the Waikato.

    “While construction on the roundabout continues, the roundabout has today opened with two temporary approaches now in action.  

    “SH1 and SH29 are strategically important to the upper North Island and this milestone will come as welcomed news for the more than 2,500 heavy commercial vehicles and 25,000 cars that travel through this pinch point every day.” 

    The roundabout has been strategically designed to connect into a new Road of National Significance (RoNS) between Cambridge and Piarere.

    “Our Government is prioritising a four-lane upgrade of SH1 from Cambridge to Piarere, a critical RoNS that was put on hold under the previous government. Reviving this upgrade will enable Kiwis and freight get where they want to go quickly and safely, supporting economic growth and boosting productivity.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Activist News – New Zealand vote at UNGA needs follow-through with sanctions – PSNA

    Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

     

    It’s pleasing to see New Zealand vote in favour of the United Nations General Assembly resolution reinforcing the International Court of Justice finding that Israel’s occupation in Palestine is illegal.

     

    However, this vote will only have practical meaning if New Zealand follows through on the resolution’s requirement that we ban imports from companies operating in the Occupied Palestinian Territories.

     

    The UN resolution calls on states to

     

    “take steps towards ceasing the importation of any products originating in the Israeli settlements, as well as the provision or transfer of arms, munitions and related equipment to Israel … where there are reasonable grounds to suspect that they may be used in the Occupied Palestinian Territory.”

     

    We also argue that the resolution also requires the government to suspend Rakon Limited export of crystal oscillators to the US because these are almost certainly contained in the US-supplied missiles being used by Israel to genocidal effect in Gaza.

     

    We have communicated to the Prime Minister our expectations that legislation to enact this will be brought before parliament shortly.

     

     

    John Minto

    National Chair

    Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Community Committee reflects on the value of ‘community’  

    Source: Auckland Council

    Auckland Council’s newly formed Community Committee has met for the first time this week at Auckland House, with chair Cr Angela Dalton referencing the national campaign of Mental Health Awareness Week during her opening speech.

    She encouraged councillors, staff, and Aucklanders to reach out to neighbours, check in with colleagues and take a moment to share gratitude, in support of the Mental Health Foundation’s 2024 theme – of ‘Community is…what we create together’. 

    “There has never been a more important time to focus on community. It is our strong social connections that keep us moving forward through the tough times and able to navigate the ups and downs a bit easier,” says Cr Dalton.

    The Mental Health Foundation is encouraging New Zealanders to focus on one action each day from 23-29 September to improve the wellbeing of people, whānau and communities in line with its Five Ways of Wellbeing.

    Deputy chair Councillor Julie Fairey says Council wants to support people to be able to add in the five ways to their daily routines.

    “The five ways to boost your wellbeing are to connect, give, take notice, keep learning and be active. Today is Tautoko Tuesday, which is about noticing the positives around you and offering your thanks to those who provide them. I think we can all make someone else smile by letting them know how much we appreciate them,” she says.

    The Community Committee has community matters at the heart of its focus. It makes decisions on all regional grants and oversees community programmes and assets.

    Its yearly work programme includes:

    • regional strategy for arts, culture and events
    • managing the regional grants programme and decisions
    • sports and recreation decisions, plus community facilities and services
    • community partner organisation arrangements and reporting.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: CHILDREN AT RISK AND TERRIFIED AS CONFLICT ESCALATES IN LEBANON

    Source: Save The Children

    BEIRUT, 23 September 2024 – At least 21 children are among an estimated 270 people killed, and more than 1,000 injured in Israeli strikes on southern and eastern Lebanon on Monday, with all schools now closing and children terrified, said Save the Children. 

    The regional escalation is threatening the lives of more than 345,000 children near the border with families now desperately trying to flee to find safety for their children.  

    Jennifer Moorehead, Save the Children Lebanon Country Director said: 

    “Our worst nightmare is now becoming a reality. Children in Lebanon have felt the crushing anxiety of a looming war since last October, and in the last few days their lives have been turned upside down, with densely populated neighbourhoods bombed. Today is the deadliest day since last October.  

    We’re seeing strikes in dozens of towns, families desperately trying to flee with whatever they can carry, children crying, terrified by the sound of drones and fighter jets above their heads.  Children are telling us that every loud sound makes them jump now. Whenever they hear a door slam or something drop, they get scared and think it’s another sonic boom. It feels like danger is everywhere, and they can never be safe. 

    We have staff and partners who have family members stuck in the south, with roads damaged by airstrikes. All schools across the country will be closed from tomorrow, impacting around 1.5 million children, with many schools in major cities and villages now being opened as temporary refugee shelters.  

    Many of those fleeing are already vulnerable, including women, children and refugee populations who have been living in displacement for months. This is a major, terrifying escalation but we have to remember that children in the south have been impacted by cross-border violence, living in fear for years. 

    Any further escalation of hostilities will mean an unacceptable loss of human life. As always, children will bear the brunt of conflict.  We strongly urge all parties to respect international humanitarian law and to de–escalate this crisis immediately. All parties must protect civilians and focus on diplomatic efforts to bring a lasting peace to all communities in the region.” 

     

     

    Note to editors: 

    • Save the Children has been working in Lebanon since 1953. Save the Children is responding to ongoing needs, particularly for those who have been displaced by the escalation of violence in southern Lebanon. Save the Children has supported 60,000 people, including 24,000 children in collective shelters and host families with cash, clean water, food parcels, learning materials, mental health and psychosocial support, hygiene and cleaning products, mattresses, pillows, blankets to families who fled their homes.
    • To calculate the percentage of children who are projected to be affected by cross-border violence, Save the Children used the number of people projected to be affected overall according to the UN, and cross checked it with the UN’s population data. The share of children out of the total population in Lebanon, according to data from the World Population Prospects 2022, Is 32.9%.  32.9% of 1050000 is equal to an approximate number of children totalling 345,450. 

     

    For further enquiries please contact: 

    Randa Ghazy, Regional Media Manager for North Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe: Randa.Ghazy@savethechildren.org; 

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

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

     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash: Summit Road, Christchurch

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died following a crash in Christchurch early this morning.

    Police were notified of the single vehicle crash on Summit Road at 1.25am today.

    One person died and one person was critically injured.

    Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are under way.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays expected following Redoubt Road crash

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Motorists are being advised to expect delays following a crash on Redoubt Road earlier this morning.

    At about 2.15am, emergency services responded to a report of a vehicle crashing into a power pole on Redoubt Road, Totara Park.

    The driver was uninjured, however power lines were brought down which caused a small fire.

    The road has been closed while the scene is cleared.

    Diversions are in place and motorists are advised to seek an alternative route or expect delays.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Release: Govt forgetting the 6000 jobs they’ve cut

    Source: New Zealand Labour Party

    The real problem in the public sector is ongoing job losses and cuts to the front line.  

    “Having people work in the office does have benefits, but when you’re laying people off indiscriminately that will have a much greater effect on team dynamics, productivity, and the local economy,” Acting Labour Leader Carmel Sepuloni.

    “There are plenty of valid reasons to work from home. There are also lots of benefits to having people come into the office. It should be up to employers to get that balance right, not some performative government direction.  

    “Christopher Luxon and Nicola Willis are blaming those who work from home for parts of the week for their problems, rather than acknowledging the more than 6000 people who have been laid off as a result of their government’s decisions.  

    “They also made this announcement without any hard data telling them there was a problem in the first place.

    “They should take a step back and consider what their layoffs are doing to morale and to whether people want to be in the office.

    “When people don’t have a job and an income, or are worried they won’t have one soon, they are also less likely to spend money and support their local economy,” Carmel Sepuloni said.

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

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Academics and taxpayers deserve better than AUT’s discriminatory travel policy

    Source: ACT Party

    ACT has obtained a copy of AUT’s policy for funding researcher travel, which allocates 30 percent more points to travel applications for researchers who identify as Māori, and 20 percent more for Pasifika.

    “This policy will put some academics at a disadvantage relative to others, simply because they have the ‘wrong’ ancestry,” says ACT Tertiary Education and Skills spokesperson Dr Parmjeet Parmar.

    “Allocating travel funding based on race is a disrespect to those who would otherwise secure opportunities based on merit, or on the value their travel can offer to the university and society.

    “After hearing reports of the existence of this policy, my office requested a copy of the points system from AUT on Wednesday morning. With no response from the university, I emailed around 500 AUT researchers over the weekend asking them if they knew about the points system and if they could provide a copy. This must have caused a stir, because yesterday morning AUT sent my office a copy of the points system, and the Vice-Chancellor sent an email to researchers and staff defending the policy. However, the Vice-Chancellor opted not to link directly to the points system so staff could easily view and understand it.

    “I have now sent a copy of the points system to AUT researchers so they can view it themselves.

    “Many researchers told me they were not aware of the points system, which is not listed publicly and is not easily found on internal systems. The University has not been up front with its staff and researchers, who deserve better.

    “Last week the Government issued a circular to government agencies setting the expectation that public resources be allocated according to need and value, not race. However, as the Tertiary Education Minister has pointed, universities are given autonomy under the Education Training Act 2020 to adopt their own policies. Of course, academics, politicians, and taxpayers can still – and should – debate and challenge funding decisions.

    “ACT will continue to shine sunlight on the discriminatory use of public funds. Having seen the Vice-Chancellor’s defence of the policy, I do not agree with the Tertiary Education Minister’s assessment that AUT’s rationale is ‘good’. ACT is deeply concerned that universities who fail to uphold equal opportunity for students and academics damage their own reputations and place divisive political ideology ahead of value for taxpayers.”

    Editor’s note: The AUT points system for travel funding prioritises applications based on a number of criteria, before an ‘equity multiplier’ of up to 1.3x is applied to advantage selected groups. This means that while a Māori-identifying researcher can earn up to 37.7 points, a researcher not eligible for an equity multiplier may only accumulate 29 points. This means, in effect, that an Asian academic seeking to attend a conference to which they are contributing a paper could lose funding to a Māori-identifying researcher who is merely visiting the conference, solely on the basis of race.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Police drill down on pair following aggravated robbery

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have unscrewed a pair’s plans after two men allegedly stole tools from a hardware shop and presented a firearm at store workers in East Tāmaki yesterday.

    Detective Inspector Karen Bright, from Counties Manukau CIB, says the incident at a commercial address on Harris Road was reported to Police at around 3.42pm yesterday.

    “A man has entered the store and walked around for close to an hour before allegedly leaving the store with tools that weren’t paid for.

    “Two employees have then chased after the alleged offender as he was leaving.”

    Detective Inspector Bright says the man has run to a vehicle where another man was waiting.

    “The person in the car is alleged to have presented an imitation firearm towards the workers before the pair fled in a black Subaru.

    “Our staff managed to track the vehicle and the Police Eagle helicopter quickly located at an address on Kemble Close, Māngere.

    “They have attempted to leave that address, however an armed vehicle stop was conducted and both males were taken into custody.”

    She says the stolen power tools and a replica pistol were located.

    “This was exceptional work by the officers involved, and thankfully no one was injured.

    “But this incident should serve as a reminder, we take any incident where there are threats of violence or presentation of firearms towards the community seriously.”

    Two men, aged 38 and 27, will appear in Manukau District Court on Thursday facing charges including aggravated assault, shoplifting and presenting an object like a firearm.

    ENDS.

    Holly McKay/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Homicide investigation, Rotorua

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Police have charged a 52-year-old Rotorua man with murder, after a woman was located deceased at an Utuhina address yesterday.

    The man is scheduled to appear in Rotorua District Court today.

    Two people injured in a linked incident at a Western Heights address remain in hospital in a critical condition.

    Scene examinations are continuing at the Western Heights and Utuhina addresses.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who may have information about either of these incidents, who has not yet spoken to us.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105. Please use the reference number 240923/0552.

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

    ENDS
     

    Issued by Police Media Centre. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speech to 2024 Aerospace Summit

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Good morning, and thank you to Aerospace New Zealand and the committee for inviting me to attend the third annual Aerospace Summit. 

    Thank you also for all the work undertaken by the Aerospace New Zealand committee and your team in the delivery of so many outreach and educational activities around New Zealand. 

    I would also like to acknowledge the many international experts joining us at this Summit. I welcome your participation and thank you for your interest.

    I am an enthusiastic supporter of our aerospace sector, and it is a pleasure to be talking to a room full of people who feel as positive about the future of aerospace as I do. 

    This enthusiasm is also shared by the Government, as evidenced by the fact that for the first time we have a Minister for Space.

    It’s a role I’m very proud of but which also brings a real responsibility for improving the public understanding of just what space involves. Most people relate it simply to rockets but as everyone here knows there’s so much more to it – be it satellites, be it drones or be it the  data these platforms generate. One aspect of this new position I do wish to make clear is that the scope of my portfolio covers not only space activity but also emerging aviation technologies.

    Novel and groundbreaking aviation technologies are set to revolutionise aviation, as well as driving advancements that will impact our daily lives through technologies in communications, mapping and monitoring of land, disaster response and how we transport goods.

    The Government is ambitious for the possibilities for advanced aviation in New Zealand and its potential to grow the economy and boost productivity. 

    To realise that ambition we need to have the right regulatory settings to help unlock the growth of this part of the economy.

    It is the Government’s goal that by the end of 2025, New Zealand will have a world-class regulatory environment that allows rapid iteration and testing of advanced aviation vehicles and technology, while maintaining high standards of safety.

    I am pleased to announce that to achieve this, the Government has agreed to a set of actions to support and grow advanced aviation and remove unnecessary red tape. 

    This light touch regulatory approach, which will also cover experimental or developmental aircraft and systems, will significantly free up innovators to test their tech and ideas. 

    Once innovators get ready to export their technologies, they will transition into the current regulatory regime to allow them to demonstrate the integrity and credibility of their products, as international regulators will demand this. 

    We will also be engaging with the sector to establish permanent restricted airspace areas – or sandboxes – for exclusive use by advanced aviation companies.

    We will be updating other Rules to enable more timely decision-making.

    I look forward to having more to say on this in the coming months. 

    In the meantime, I am looking forward to visiting the Tāwhaki Aerospace Centre this afternoon, which is already playing an important role in ensuring companies have access to the right infrastructure to support them with testing and trialling innovative technology. 

    These reforms are just some of the steps the Government is taking to support the growth and development of our wider aerospace sector. 

    I am pleased to release today the New Zealand Space and Advanced Aviation Strategy, which sets out the Government’s ambitions for the sector and actions to achieve this, supported by principles on our broader space interests. 

    It succinctly brings together previous policy and strategy documents into one cohesive Strategy.

    It also highlights to a global audience the benefits of New Zealand as a location for aerospace activities.

    The new Strategy is on the New Zealand Space Agency website, and I encourage you to take a look.

    Thinking of that global audience, I have been fortunate enough to be able to travel internationally in my time as Minister for Space to promote our space and advanced aviation sectors and share how excited I am at the future we have ahead of us.

    I have visited international space agency facilities across a number of countries and continents and attended events such as the Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, and most recently the Australian Space Forum to announce a joint open call for Earth observation proposals with our neighbours across the Tasman.

    Through this travel, I have strengthened New Zealand’s international aerospace relationships with both government and sector partners. 

    Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and my ministerial colleagues have done the same. These international connections are important not only to drive progress in science, innovation and technology but also to build commercial connections and opportunities for our sector. We have much to offer and we are open for business.

    In another step to support the Government’s work to develop the sector, we will be conducting an economic survey. 

    This will provide an understanding of the size and productivity of the space and advanced aviation sectors to better support opportunities and overcome challenges to future growth. 

    We would like to get as clear of a picture as possible by ensuring everyone is included.

    This survey will begin later in the year, and I encourage you to contribute when the time comes.

    Fostering talent in aerospace-related fields is also important for the ongoing success of the aerospace economy. 

    Earlier this year, the Prime Minister announced the Prime Minister’s Space Prizes to celebrate the innovative, talented people in our aerospace sector and inspire the next generation.

    There are two prizes – one for Professional Excellence, which carries a $100,000 prize, and one for Student Endeavour, which carries a $50,000 award.

    Applications close on September 30 – which is just six days away – and I encourage those of you who haven’t yet applied to consider doing so. 

    Applications are also open for the 2025 New Zealand Space Scholarships. So, if you know a high-flying graduate student interested in working on NASA projects in the US next year, please encourage them to apply. These interns bring home invaluable skills and experience from their time away. 

    Another example of Government fostering talent in industry is the Ārohia Trailblazer Grant, a Callaghan Innovation fund which supports innovative New Zealanders with big ideas to take to market their world-leading innovations.

    I am very pleased to announce that four of the seven recipients of the latest round of funding are from, or are involved with, the aerospace industry.

    Congratulations to Astrix Astronautics, Emrod, Fabrum Solutions Limited, and Zenno Astronautics who, alongside other recipients Basis NZ, Toku Eyes and Zincovery Process Technologies, will each receive a share of around $17.5 million in co-funding.

    We recognise the significant achievements and contributions you all make to the success of the sector, and these are just some of the ways we celebrate and further encourage these activities.

    Thank you for your time and attention this morning. I encourage you to make the most of the rest of the Summit and I look forward to doing the same.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government helping advanced aviation take off

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is introducing a light-touch regulatory approach to advanced aviation as it moves to give businesses certainty and boost productivity, Space Minister Judith Collins and Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced today.

    “Novel aviation technologies, such as drones and uncrewed aircraft, are set to revolutionise aviation, as well as have global impacts on communications, emergency management and advancing science,” Ms Collins told the Aerospace Summit in Christchurch.

    “We have committed to having a world-class regulatory environment by the end of 2025. To do that we’re introducing a light-touch regulatory approach that will significantly free up innovators to test their technology and ideas.

    “We’re also removing the requirement for them to have to go through the whole approvals process each time they tweak their technology.

    “New Zealand is an attractive place for aerospace-related business. With a world-class regulatory environment, we’ll be able to make more of our natural advantages of clear skies and geography and our talented people to position New Zealand as a destination of choice for aerospace activity.”

    Mr Brown said the Government was also establishing restricted airspaces where tests could be carried out -– known as a sandbox.

    “This provides innovators with much improved flexibility, while maintaining safety and separation from other aviation users,” he says.

    “These changes are just some of the steps the Government is taking to support the growth and development of the wider aerospace sector.”

    Ms Collins also released today the New Zealand Space and Advanced Aviation Strategy, which outlines the ambitions for these interlinked sectors, and the actions to realise that ambition.

    “The Government is focused on creating the right environment to unlock the significant economic growth offered by the high-tech, high-productivity aerospace sector,” Ms Collins says.

    The New Zealand Space and Advanced Aviation Strategy is available on the MBIE website: New Zealand Space and Advanced Aviation Strategy 2024-2030 | Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (mbie.govt.nz)

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government undermines public service with WFH crackdown

    Source: Green Party

    The Green Party says the Government’s retrograde move to tighten up on Work from Home arrangements is the latest in a series of blows to the Public Service.

    “This is shallow soundbite policy and a cheap shot to a public service that is being gutted by the Government,” says the Green Party Spokesperson for the Public Service, Francisco Hernandez.

    “Our public service needs to be supported so it can support our communities. Undermining our public servants at every opportunity will only lead to an erosion of the services we all rely on. 

    “We saw firsthand during the pandemic the benefit of flexible work arrangements and how they can support people to achieve a better work life balance, being beneficial to productivity and morale. 

    “This gimmick Government wants to take us back to the pre-internet days when we lacked the flexibility to adopt working arrangements that work for our workers. This Government quite clearly mistrusts and undervalues the public service. 

    “How can the Government claim this is about improving the performance of the public service when it has repeatedly punched down on our public servants? 

    “It is laughable for the Prime Minister to claim that this will be good for the Wellington CBD when his Government has cut almost 7,000 public service jobs, which has had devastating down-stream effects to the local economy. 

    “If we want to reinvigorate the heart of our cities, we need to support public and active transport, bolster our urban density and stop gutting public services, slashing jobs and cutting incomes.

    “Public servants should have the right to safe, decent and meaningful work that affords them the right balance of working from home and from the office. This should be a discussion between employers and employees, not something that is dictated by Nicola Willis.  

    “The Greens would reform our employment laws for all workers in New Zealand to enable flexible working arrangements, including working from home,” says Francisco Hernandez.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Three charged following two year investigation into New Zealand’s largest cocaine shipment

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Three people have been arrested and charged following an investigation into the largest cocaine shipment to ever reach New Zealand shores.

    It has been two years since the drugs were identified and seized at Tauranga port, and thanks to a joint investigation involving Police and Customs three people, all from Tamaki Makaurau were arrested last week. 

    Two men, aged 27 and 35, and a woman aged 41 are due to reappear in the Tauranga District Court Thursday 3 October on charges including importing cocaine, possessing cocaine for supply and participating in an organised crime group.

    These arrests are the result of a joint operation between New Zealand Customs and Police, dubbed Operation Bask.

    Op Bask was launched following the discovery of 725 kilograms of cocaine imported by boat into the Port of Tauranga on Friday 25 February 2022.

    Detective Inspector Tom Gollan of the National Organised Crime Group (NOCG) says: “The vessel had travelled from Ecuador, via Panama, with a container of produce loaded with cocaine, in a method known as ‘piggybacking’.”

    “Piggybacking involves controlled drugs being loaded into a container of legitimate product in an effort to avoid law enforcement,” Detective Inspector Gollan says.

    However, in this case the cocaine was very quickly detected and seized by Customs, and an investigation was launched by Customs investigators and detectives from the National Organised Crime Group.

    Today, the cocaine has an estimated street value of $253.75 million.

    More than two years later it remains the largest cocaine shipment to ever arrive on New Zealand shores, and if not detected, would have caused a huge amount of harm to the community.

    A breakthrough in the investigation was made recently, resulting in the three arrests.

    They have also been charged with a further importation of 30kgs of cocaine that arrived into the Port of Tauranga on 31 December 2021, again from Balboa in Panama.

    Customs’ Acting Investigations Manager, Nigel Barnes, says global intelligence networks and well-developed targeting methods are key to identifying and stopping this type of smuggling attempt.

    “We Identified the South American shipment as a potential risk before it arrived in Tauranga and that turned out to be the case resulting in the record cocaine seizure that we made,” Mr Barnes says. 

    “This joint operation has also provided both Police and Customs with further intelligence and insights which are clearly still producing results.

    “These arrests demonstrate the persistence and determination of NOCG detectives and Customs staff in disrupting the drug supply line.”

    Detective Inspector Gollan say Police are committed to seeing less drugs on our streets and ultimately less money going to those who intimidate and cause violence within our communities.

    “Police will continue to target those who supply drugs into our vulnerable communities, however we cannot do it alone.

    “If you see any unlawful or suspicious activity, please update us online now or call 105.”

    For assistance with drug and alcohol addiction there are several organisations available to assist, one of which is the Alcohol Drug Helpline: 0800 787 797 or online at: Alcohol Drug Helpline

    Facts
    •            725kg of cocaine imported into the Port of Tauranga via Panama on 25 February 2022
    •            Is the single largest cocaine shipment to New Zealand
    •            Street value of $253,750,000
    •            Total drug harm prevented $270,845,500
    •            Equivalent to 7,250,000 individual doses
    •            30kgs of cocaine imported into New Zealand into the Port of Tauranga on 31 December 2021, again via Panama.
    •            Street value of $10,500,000
    •            Total drug harm prevented $11,207,400
    •            Equivalent to 300,000 individual doses

    ENDS 

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Homicide investigation launched, Rotorua

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    A homicide investigation has been launched after a woman has died and two others have been critically injured in linked incidents in Rotorua.

    Emergency services were called about 5am this morning to a Western Heights address after a report of two people being seriously assaulted.

    They were transported to hospital in critical condition.

    A scene examination is underway, and enquiries are ongoing to determine exactly what has occurred.

    Separately, Police were called to an Utuhina address about 2.35pm to conduct a welfare check on a woman.

    Upon arriving at the property, Police located the woman deceased.

    A scene examination is also underway at that property.

    Police believe the incidents are linked, and one person is assisting us with our enquiries.

    We are currently not seeking anyone else in relation to this matter.

    Police would like to hear from anyone who has information about either incident that might assist with our enquiries.

    If you can help, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 240923/0552.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatal crash, SH6, Westland

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    One person has died and another is in a serious condition following a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 6/Ruatapu Road in Westland last night.

    The crash happened halfway between Ruatapu and Ross, about 8:35pm.

    Sadly, the driver of one of the cars died at the scene. The injured driver of the other vehicle was airlifted to hospital. Nobody else was involved.

    Police are providing support to their next of kin.

    State Highway 6 reopened about 4am.

    The Serious Crash Unit carried out a scene examination and enquiries into what caused the crash are ongoing.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Priority One effective in getting kids into homes

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Ki te kahore he whakakitenga, ka ngaro te Iwi – without a vision, the people will perish.

    The latest data on whānau moved from emergency housing motels into social homes shows that Priority One is making a huge difference, Associate Minister of Housing Tama Potaka says.

    “At the end of August this year, the total number of households in emergency housing motels had reduced by 57 per cent under our Government, from 3141 in December last year to 1365 at the end of August. The daily cost to the taxpayer has fallen from about $1 million a day to around half that.

    “In April, we brought in our Priority One policy, a key election promise from National, which prioritises whānau with tamariki who have been in emergency housing for 12 weeks or more to move into social homes. So far, thanks to Priority One, we’ve seen around 645 households move from emergency housing into social housing. That includes over 1311 children who no longer have to live in unsuitable dank motels.

    “I recently met a dad who had been moving between homeless shelters, a caravan, and his car. He told me that moving into his home earlier this year has been life-changing for him and his daughter. His teenage daughter is now settled, achieving excellence at school and he told me that his daughter now has goals in life.

    “I also met a mum whose four young tamariki are living in a stable home for the first time in their lives after cycling in and out of emergency housing for years. She said: ‘It was just me and my babies sleeping in one bed in emergency housing before I got this home’.

    “Unlike the previous government which didn’t know where half the people leaving these motels had gone, we are continually improving our insights on those entering and exiting emergency housing. 

    “We now know that about 80 per cent of those leaving emergency housing go into some form of social or private housing because of support they receive. The remaining people are not accessing any government housing supports administered by the Ministry of Social Development.

    “People don’t have to tell us where they are moving to, and they may no longer need to access government support – people living in emergency housing should not be judged as being incapable of navigating their own lives. We need to balance the requirement to monitor the effectiveness of our interventions with the need to respect people’s reasonable right to privacy.

    “Officials are monitoring the risk of increased homelessness through regular engagement with housing and social service providers. Officials are also working to better understand homelessness. It’s important to remember too that emergency housing remains available as a temporary last resort for people in greatest need.

    “With the targeted supports we’re offering, and more social housing and private rentals becoming available, people have more options for finding houses they can make into homes.

    “Over the two years to 30 June 2026, Kāinga Ora will be adding 2,650 homes to the state housing stock, and our Government has committed to delivering 1,500 new social housing homes by June 2027 to keep the pipeline of social houses coming. These new social homes will be delivered by Community Housing Providers.

    “We are committed to achieving our target of reducing the number of households in emergency housing by 75 per cent by 2030 and I am encouraged by the progress we are making towards this target.”

    Whakaarotau Tuatahi: kia whaikāinga ō tātou tamariki

    Ki te kahore he whakakitenga, ka ngaro te Iwi.

    E tohu ana ngā raraunga hou mō ngā whānau kua hūnuku i ngā nōhanga tata ki ngā kāinga pāpori i te hurihanga nui kua puta i te Whakaarotau Tuatahi, hei tā te Minita Tuarua mō ngā take whare a Tama Potaka.

    “I te hiku o te marama o Here-turi-kōka i tēnei tau, i heke te rahinga o ngā whānau e noho ana i ngā mōtera nōhanga tata i te 57 ōrau i raro i tō mātou Kāwanatanga, mai 3141 i te marama o Hakihea i tērā tau ki 1365 i te mutunga o Here-turi-kōka i tēnei tau. Kua heke te utu o te ia rā mō te kaiutu tāke i te takiwā o te kotahi miriona tāra ia rā, ā kātata ki te hāwhe o tērā.

    “I te marama o Paengawhāwhā, i whakarewa mātou i te kaupapa here o Whakaarotau Tuatahi, he kī taurangi nō te pōtitanga a-motu a Nahinara, e aronui ana ki ngā whānau whai tamariki kua noho i ngā nōhanga tata mō te 12 wiki, neke atu rānei kia hūnuku ki ngā kāinga pāpori.  Hoi anō, kua kite mātou ngā hua o te Whakaarotau Tuatahi, ā tata ki te 645 whānau kua hūnuku i ngā nōhanga tata ki ngā kāinga pāpori. Tae ana ki ngā tamariki neke atu i te 1311, kua kore e hoki ki ngā mōtera karukaru, hūnounou anō hoki.

    “Nō naia tata ake nei i tūtaki ki tētahi pāpā i nuku haere i waenga i ngā whare tāwharau, tētahi whare tāwhai me tōna waka. I kī mai ia kua huri te ao mōna me tana tamāhine, i tōna taunga ki tōna ake kāinga i tēnei tau. Kua mahuru tana tamāhine, kua angitū ia i te kura, waihoki i kī mai ia he whāinga nui tō tana tamāhine ināianei.

    “I tūtaki hoki au ki tētahi māmā katahi anō rātou ko ōna tamariki tokowha ka noho ki tētahi kāinga haumaru, ā kua roa nei e uru, e puta anō hoki i ngā nōhanga tata i roto i ngā tau. I kī mai ia ‘Ko au me aku pēpē anake, e moe tahi ana i te moenga kotahi i roto i ngā nōhanga tata i mua i taku whai i tēnei kāinga’. 

    “E kore e whai i te kāwanatanga o mua e kūare ana i ngā nekehanga o te haurua o ngā tāngata e puta ana i ngā mōtera, ka whanake haere mātou i ngā mōhiotanga o ngā tāngata e uru, e puta anō hoki i ngā nōhanga tata.

    “E mōhio ana mātou ināianei e haere ana te 80 ōrau o ngā tāngata e puta ana i ngā nōhanga tata ki tētahi momo kāinga pāpori, kāinga motuhake rānei nā te momo penihana i whakawhiwhia e rātou. Ko te toenga o ngā tāngata kāore e whai i tētahi penihana whare o te kāwanatanga, nā te Manatū Whakahīato Ora i tuku. 

    “Ehara i te mea me whakamōhio mai ngā tāngata i ō rātou nekehanga, ā tērā pea kāore e whaitake te kimi penihana o te kāwanatanga – kia kaua e whakawā i te hunga e noho ana i ngā nōhanga tata me te pōhēhē  e kore e tāea e rātou te whaioranga. Me whakataurite mātou i ngā mahi haepapa ki te aroturuki i ngā hua ka puta i ngā kaupapa me te  whakaaro hoki ki ngā tikanga mana tangata kia noho motuhake.

    “Ko te pikinga o te kāingakoretanga tētahi tūraru e aroturuki ana e ngā kaimahi i roto i ngā hononga ki ngā ratonga whare, ratonga hauora anō hoki. Ka whanake hoki ngā kaimahi i te mōhiotanga e pā ki te kāingakoretanga. Me maumahara tonu kei reira tonu ngā nōhanga tata hei kōwhiringa whakamutunga mō te hunga e tino hiahia nei.

    “Mā ngā kaupapa hāpai e whakaritea nei e mātou, me te whanake haere o ngā kāīnga pāpori me ngā kāinga rēti anō hoki e whai wāhi ana, ka nui ake ngā ara whai whare, hei kāinga mō te tangata.

    “I roto i ngā tau e rua, tae ana ki te 30 o Pipiri 2026, ka hangaia e Kāinga Ora kia 2650 ngā whare tūmatanui, ka ū hoki tō mātou Kāwanatanga kia 1500 ngā kāinga pāpori hou ka whakatūria i mua i te Pipiri hei te tau 2027 kia pakari ai te pūnaha kāinga pāpori. Mā ngā Ratonga Whare Hapori ēnei kāinga pāpori e whakatū.

    “E ū ana ki tā mātou whāinga kia angitū, kia heke te rahinga o ngā whānau e noho ana i ngā nōhanga tata i te 75 ōrau hei te tau 2030, waihoki e hiamo ana ahau i ngā hua kua puta kia tutuki tēnei whāinga.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Action taken on sale of nitrous oxide for recreation

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Dr Shane Reti says urgent action is being taken to restrict the sale of nitrous oxide and welcomes new advice from Medsafe highlighting tougher penalties if sold for recreational purposes.

     “Nitrous oxide has several legitimate uses, but we also know it is increasingly being used as a recreational drug,” says Dr Reti. 

     “Smokefree enforcement officers have even reported seeing nitrous oxide products – nangs – for sale in vape stores. This is extremely concerning.

     “Given the significant risks and the potential for long-term damage, and a number of overlapping portfolios in this area, last month I requested officials look at options on the Government’s behalf to address it.

     “Last week, I received advice from the Ministry of Health about a change in approach that would clarify the law for suppliers and users of nitrous oxide. This will enable Police to prosecute the sale and use of nitrous oxide for recreational use.” 

     Whereas nitrous oxide had been considered under the Medicines Act 1981, Medsafe now advises that when it’s sold primarily for the purpose of inducing a psychoactive effect, the Psychoactive Substances Act 2013 applies.

     No products containing nitrous oxide have been approved for use under the Psychoactive Substances Act, making it illegal to sell nitrous oxide or products containing nitrous oxide for recreational use. A breach of this regulation is punishable by either prison time or a fine. 

     “The proliferation of nangs – particularly targeted at our young people – is a significant public health issue with potentially serious consequences. 

     “Police and health professionals have reported recreational use of nitrous oxide is on the rise, a trend seen in other countries like Australia and the UK. 

     “This reinforces the gravity of the situation and the need for swift action. This cannot continue. 

     “I have directed the Ministry of Health to monitor the effectiveness of this change and provide ongoing advice about whether further restrictions are necessary to keep New Zealanders safe,” Dr Reti says.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Update: Name release, Levin homicide; and further public appeal

    Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

    Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson:

    Police can now name the deceased man in the ongoing homicide investigation in Levin.

    Terrence Clough, aged 57, died at a Chester Street property on Thursday evening after being assaulted.

    A post-mortem has now been completed, and Terrence’s body was returned to his family last night.

    The 31-year-old male who appeared in Levin District Court on Friday charged with murder, was remanded in custody and is due to reappear in the High Court at Palmerston North on 11 October.

    The investigation is ongoing to establish the events that led to Terrence’s death, and as part of that Police are seeking information from the public.

    We are keen to speak with anyone that was in the area of Chester Street and Levin North School between 9:30pm and midnight on Thursday 19 September.

    We are particularly interested if you saw a male walking by himself in dark clothing – it is believed that he had no shoes on.

    If you have any information that could help enquiries, please update us online now or call 105.

    Please use the reference number 240920/8756.

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

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre
     

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Trade Ministers discuss next steps for CER

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Trade Minister Todd McClay hosted Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell for the annual Closer Economic Relations (CER) Trade Ministers’ meeting in Rotorua this weekend. 

    “CER is a gold-standard agreement underpinning $32 billion in annual trade. Minister Farrell and I discussed how we can continue to build on its success to grow trade and investment between our countries and improve conditions for our exporting businesses around the world,” Mr McClay says.

    “We agreed on the importance of facilitating trans-Tasman trade, including through the work under way to strengthen the operation of the Trans-Tasman Mutual Recognition Arrangement and enhance regulatory coherence.

    “We discussed the benefits of addressing non-tariff barriers including restrictions on structural timber exports.

    “We also had a productive exchange of views on how we can pursue our shared interests on a range of international agreements and issues including the WTO, CPTPP and other regional trade initiatives.”

    The Ministers also met with a number of New Zealand and Australian businesses, facilitated by the Australia New Zealand Leadership Forum. 

    “It is essential that we hear directly from businesses about what matters to them so that we can prioritise actions that make a real difference,” Mr McClay says.

    The Ministers released a joint statement following their meeting.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –