Source: New Zealand Police
State Highway 58/Paremata Road is closed following a crash.
The two-vehicle crash was reported just before 7:35pm.
One person has been seriously injured.
State Highway 58 is currently closed between James Cook Drive and Joseph Banks Drive.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Tasman Police investigating a serious crash on State Highway 60, near Mapua Drive, are seeking witnesses to the incident.
At about 2pm on Thursday 19 June, Police were called to a two vehicle crash.
Two people were transported to hospital with injuries, one of whom is in a critical condition.
Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash, as well as any dashcam or CCTV footage.
If you have any information, please contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online.
Please reference file number 250619/4692.
ENDS
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
The NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Board has given the green light for the Ōtaki to north of Levin (Ō2NL) highway to proceed to construction, marking a significant milestone towards a safer, more resilient and efficient transport connection for the fast-growing Horowhenua and Greater Wellington region.
At its meeting earlier this afternoon, the NZTA Board confirmed additional funding to ensure that the project will progress, including some features from the originally consented concept design.
NZTA Chief Executive Brett Gliddon says the new Ō2NL highway is a key project for the region, and a priority in the Government Policy Statement on land transport, as part of the Roads of National Significance (RoNS) programme.
Mr Gliddon says throughout the planning and design process, NZTA has considered value for money options and listened to community feedback.
As a result of today’s Board decision, the following elements of the project will be reinstated.
The Ō2NL project will deliver a more efficient, resilient and safer highway which is firmly focused on enabling future growth and development in one of New Zealand’s fastest growing districts.
“Now that funding has been confirmed along with the reinstated scope, we look forward to beginning construction later this year. We’re also looking forward to continuing our work with Horowhenua District Council as it progresses work on the Tara-Ika growth area,” says Mr Gliddon.
“Working in partnership with Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, local hapū of Ngāti Raukawa te au ki te Tonga and Horowhenua District Council, NZTA recognises Ō2NL is crucial for the development of the area and will become an integral part of the state highway network, adding to the more resilient, safer and more efficient drive north from Wellington.
“We understand the importance of the Ō2NL project to the community, and we appreciate the feedback provided during the recent community engagement.”
More information, including details on the level of additional funding approved, will be confirmed following the finalisation of contracts for construction of the project later this year.
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has announced the outcome of speed limit reviews recently completed on 16 ‘urban connector’ sections of state highway.
The speed reviews were undertaken on 16 of 38 sections of state highway which were required to automatically reverse to previous higher speed limits under the Setting of Speed Limits Rule 2024, but where NZTA received strong community and stakeholder feedback on a preference to retain the lower speeds.
Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024
After considering all of the safety, technical, cost and consultation information, including whether the road environment had changed and become more urban since original speed limits were changed in the past few years, NZTA has confirmed that 13 of the 16 sections will retain their lower speeds limits.
The majority of these locations are short stretches of state highway heading into or out of small townships, where drivers are already naturally slowing down, and the environment is more suited to the lower speed limit consulted on.
In some of these locations considerable population growth has occurred in recent years, and in other areas the road environment has changed, with large numbers of driveways, many public amenities and high pedestrian usage, including at schools and marae nearby.
In making its decisions, NZTA assessed the findings of a range of factors including a formal Cost Benefit Disclosure Statement (CBDS), safety and technical information, alongside consultation feedback from both stakeholders and the wider public.
After considering all of the criteria, NZTA has confirmed that speed limits will increase on three of the 16 sections:
These changes will come into effect by 1 July 2025, as required by the Rule.
The full list of 16 sites and the speed review outcome can be found on the NZTA website:
Source: National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA)
Emergency management is everyone’s responsibility – and this National Volunteer Week (15-21 June), NEMA is celebrating the people in our communities that put in the hard yards when things get tough.
Volunteers are involved at every level in Aotearoa New Zealand’s emergency management system. They are a crucial part of all four Rs – risk reduction, readiness, response and recovery – and they balance home, family and day jobs alongside stepping up for their communities.
“There are so many ways volunteers contribute to our emergency management system, and we want to thank everyone who gets involved,” NEMA’s Director of Civil Defence Emergency Management John Price says.
“I also want to give a shout-out to the people across the country who help their communities in other ways,” John Price says.
“There are lots of ways to help out in emergencies, whether it’s as part of an organised group or just mucking in and helping your neighbours.
“Volunteers are the golden thread creating closer ties across communities and building the social cohesion that is so important.
“We also need to remember that behind every volunteer who’s out in the field, there are administrators, people running training and logistics – and those at home who are keeping the whānau safe.
“Volunteers tell us they love what they do and find it extremely rewarding, as well as a great way to meet people and build closer ties with communities.”
For those who want to get involved, John Price says there’s more information on NEMA’s Get Ready site, as well as Volunteering New Zealand which can match keen people with opportunities to get stuck in.
“Without our volunteers, we’d be in trouble in an emergency. That’s why we always want to hear from people who can step up when things are tough, and help their community.”
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can advise State Highway 60 has reopened in both directions following an earlier crash near Mapua Drive.
The two vehicle crash occurred at about 3pm.
Police thank motorists for their coperation on the road while it was closed.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Team
Source: New Zealand Police
Police have resolved a family harm incident in Mt Roskill safely.
One man is in custody after Police spent a lengthy time trying to engage with the man who was inside a property with a distressed female.
The Police helicopter, Eagle, identified an opportunity to separate the pair.
Specialist staff deployed distraction devices and the man was taken into custody.
No one was injured.
Police anticipate road cordons around White Swan Road will lift shortly and greatly appreciate co-operation from the public this afternoon.
Our priority was to ensure the safety of the pair inside the residence and of the wider community.
There is no ongoing risk to the public at this time.
ENDS
Nicole Bremner/NZ Police
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are now in a position to release the name of the man who was found deceased after a house fire in Waitara on Friday 6 June.
He was 45-year-old, Jamie Elliott.
His dog was found alongside him.
Police extends our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
ENDS
Source: New Zealand Government
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities in Northland are benefitting from $3.59 million in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief, two years later.
“Cyclone Gabrielle had a devasting impact on Northland, causing widespread destruction to property and requiring significant relief efforts. Now one year after grant applications closed, more than 161 community organisations have received funding to rebuild thanks to the generosity of Kiwis who bought tickets to the special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief,” says Ms van Velden.
Funds raised from the special Lotto draw were passed on to the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust, which accepted grant applications until May 2024 and distributed all funds by October 2024. Grants were given to community organisations in regions where a state of emergency was declared for Cyclone Gabrielle, which were Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, East Coast, Hawke’s Bay, and Tararua.
“As well as repairing and replacing community facilities that were damaged by the cyclone, the proceeds of the lottery draw went towards upgrading local emergency services organisations so they can be better prepared for any future severe weather events”.
Northland projects that received funding include:
$6,000 to Surf Life Saving Baylys Beach Incorporated to purchase a generator to supply power for future adverse weather events
$20,000 to the Waimamaku Community Civil Defence Group for equipment and supplies to set up the community hall as an emergency assembly point
$19,800 to Oakura Beach Reserve Board in Ōakura for a shipping container to store seven generators to be used in emergencies
“Raising funds for important community projects is at the heart of what Lotto does. I’m pleased that the funds raised from this special Lotto draw went towards better preparing impacted communities for future events.”
The special draw was a part of the overall cyclone recovery effort and complemented the work that government, charities, mayoral relief funds, corporate partners and local fundraisers did in raising money to help with the response and recovery in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
The Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust was established by the Crown as an independent entity to distribute funds raised in the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal. The Trust allocated $14,511,916 in total across the regions affected to help recovery efforts, of which $11,770,000 came from the live Lotto NZ draw on 18 March 2023.
Source: New Zealand Government
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities in Hawke’s Bay are benefitting from $4.77 million in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief.
“Cyclone Gabrielle had a devasting impact on Hawke’s Bay, causing widespread destruction to property and requiring significant relief efforts. Now, one year after grant applications closed, 178 community organisations have received funding to rebuild thanks to the generosity of Kiwis who bought tickets to the special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief,” says Ms van Velden.
Funds raised from the special Lotto draw were passed on to the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust, which accepted grant applications until May 2024 and distributed all funds by October 2024. Grants were given to community organisations in regions where a state of emergency was declared for Cyclone Gabrielle, which were Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, East Coast, Hawke’s Bay, and Tararua.
“As well as repairing and replacing community facilities that were damaged by the cyclone, the proceeds of the lottery draw went towards upgrading local emergency services organisations so they can be better prepared for any future severe weather events”.
Hawke’s Bay projects that received funding include:
“Raising funds for important community projects is at the heart of what Lotto does. I’m pleased that the funds raised from this special Lotto draw went towards better preparing impacted communities for future events.”
The special draw was a part of the overall cyclone recovery effort and complemented the work that government, charities, mayoral relief funds, corporate partners and local fundraisers did in raising money to help with the response and recovery in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
The Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust was established by the Crown as an independent entity to distribute funds raised in the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal. The Trust allocated $14,511,916 in total across the regions affected to help recovery efforts, of which $11,770,000 came from the live Lotto NZ draw on 18 March 2023.
Source: New Zealand Government
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities in the Waikato are benefitting from over $414,000 in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief.
“Cyclone Gabrielle had a significant impact on parts of the Waikato, causing destruction to property, blocked roads, and requiring coordinated relief efforts Now, one year after grant applications closed, 18 community organisations have received funding to rebuild thanks to the generosity of Kiwis who bought tickets to the special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief,” says Ms van Velden.
Funds raised from the special Lotto draw were passed on to the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust, which accepted grant applications until May 2024 and distributed all funds by October 2024. Grants were given to community organisations in regions where a state of emergency was declared for Cyclone Gabrielle, which were Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, East Coast, Hawke’s Bay, and Tararua.
“As well as repairing and replacing community facilities that were damaged by the cyclone, the proceeds of the lottery draw went towards upgrading local emergency services organisations so they can be better prepared for any future severe weather events”.
Waikato projects that received funding include:
$29,500 to the Sunset Beach Surf Lifesaving Trust in Port Waikato for a new power generator to provide power supply to the community civil defence hub
$30,000 to the Oparau Hall Society Incorporated for repairs to the hall and equipment
$29,875 to the Port Project to restore and improve community walkways damaged by the cyclone
Sunset Beach Surf Lifesaving Trust had its first use of the generator in May 2025 when the Port had a major power outage. Malcolm Beattie, president of the Sunset Beach Lifesaving Trust, says “it kicked in and the community had access to the Community Hub for full power immediately. Having this service immediately available for our community free of any charges was amazing.”
The special draw was a part of the overall cyclone recovery effort and complemented the work that government, charities, mayoral relief funds, corporate partners and local fundraisers did in raising money to help with the response and recovery in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
“Raising funds for important community projects is at the heart of what Lotto does. I’m pleased that the funds raised from this special Lotto draw went towards better preparing impacted communities for future events.” says Ms van Velden.
The Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust was established by the Crown as an independent entity to distribute funds raised in the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal. The Trust allocated $14,511,916 in total across the regions affected to help recovery efforts, of which $11,770,000 came from the live Lotto NZ draw on 18 March 2023.
Source: New Zealand Police
Attributable to Detective Sergeant Ben Norman.
Waikato Police have arrested and charged a 22-year-old following a serious, violent incident in Tahuna.
At around 7.20pm, Police were alerted to a group of people fighting on Tahuna-Ohinewai Road after a person who confronted three men in a vehicle doing burnouts was assaulted and other members of the public attempted to intervene.
After noticing the incident unfolding, an occupant of a nearby property has attempted to intervene. However, they were also assaulted by the alleged offenders.
Six people received injuries in total in relation to the incident. Two people received serious injuries, and one other received minor injuries, they were transported to hospital. Three others received minor injuries.
The offenders have then taken two vehicles from the Tahuna-Ohinewai address and moved them onto the street.
Upon Police arrival, the offenders have fled the scene, two fled on foot, while another left in a vehicle taken from the address.
A short time later, one of the offenders was located nearby and was taken into custody by Police.
An investigation into the serious assault and aggravated robbery has commenced, with Police working to establish what exactly has occurred.
Police are following multiple lines of enquiry to identify and locate the remaining two offenders and encourage them to do the right thing and hand themselves in.
As our enquiries are ongoing, members of the community may see an increased Police presence in the area.
While Police would like to thank those who tried to intervene and assist other members of the public, Police urge the public not to take matters into their own hands or confront individuals themselves as situations can escalate quickly.
Instead, stay in a safe location, gather as much information as you safely can, and contact Police on 111.
A 22-year-old man is due to appear in Hamilton District Court today, charged with aggravated robbery and injures with intent to injure.
If you have any information that may assist in Police’s investigation, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 250619/2309.
You can also provide information through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Government
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has concluded the successful Shanghai leg of his official visit to China, accompanied by Ministers Louise Upston and Mark Mitchell and a delegation of senior New Zealand business leaders from across the food and beverage, health and wellbeing, education, and tourism sectors.
“Our bilateral trade relationship with China is one of our most important, with two-way trade exceeding NZ$39 billion in the year ending March 2025.
“This relationship accounts for more than 20 per cent of New Zealand’s total goods and services exports,” Mr Luxon says.
“It’s been great to see $400 million of commercial agreements signed today between New Zealand businesses and their Chinese partners. This is a clear sign of the strength and momentum in our trade relationship.
“We also announced we would be making it easier for Chinese nationals to transit via New Zealand by removing the need to get a transit visa, instead being able to get a New Zealanders Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA), significantly cutting costs and time for visitors.
“This resulted in one of the major announcements in Shanghai, that China Eastern Airlines was launching twice weekly flights to South America via Auckland.”
Mr Luxon participated in a tourism livestream event watched by over 10 million people, to promote New Zealand travel offerings.
“New Zealand welcomed 248,000 visitors from China in the past year, with holiday arrivals up 31 per cent. We’ve made recent changes to visa settings to make it easier for Chinese visitors to enjoy New Zealand’s natural beauty and warm hospitality,” Mr Luxon says.
Mr Luxon also visited Fudan University, one of China’s most prestigious academic institutions, to promote New Zealand as a destination for world-class research, study, and partnership.
“We’re focused on deepening our education links through student connections, institutional partnerships, and joint research that benefits both countries,” Mr Luxon says.
Mr Luxon also met with Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining to discuss Shanghai as a gateway for a high proportion of New Zealand goods, services and people-to-people flows, and other bilateral issues.
The Prime Minister will now travel to Beijing, where he will meet with China’s leaders.
Source: New Zealand Police
Attribute to Detective Inspector Dave De Lange:
Police have charged a second person after alleged interference in the murder investigation of 15-year-old Kaea Karauria.
A 21-year-old Napier woman was taken into custody earlier today, after Police learned while conducting follow-up enquiries, that she had provided instructions to another person to destroy evidence.
The alleged incident occurred on 11 May, the day of the fight in which Kaea was killed.
The woman has been charged with wilfully attempting to pervert the course of justice, and will appear in the Napier District Court on 26 June.
Police will continue to act without hesitation when a witness is threatened, or attempts are made to sabotage an investigation. Any witness tampering will be treated very seriously.
We would still like to hear from anyone who has information about the incident. Our team continues to work hard on this investigation, as Kaea and his family deserve justice.
Information can be reported via our 105 service, either over the phone or online, referencing file number 250511/1317.
We have also set up a phoneline for those wanting to share information about the incident and people can leave a message on 0800 852 525.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Two vehicles have collided on SH 60 near Mapua Drive, Tasman District.
One occupant has serious injuries and another occupant has minor injuries.
The road will be closed for some time while emergency services are at the scene.
Diversions are in place at the intersection of SH60 and Moutere Highway (Pea Vine Corner).
Traffic will need to use the inland route (not The Coastal Highway) and rejoin SH60 at Gardner Valley Road.
END
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
The winter school holidays mean it’s time to wear a few more layers to the beach.
But school’s out also means maintenance is in for the Pekatahi Bridge.
The bridge, which is located north of Tāneatua on State Highway 2 (SH2) will close for 6 days for essential deck repairs from Monday 30 June.
This is part of much needed quarterly maintenance of Pekatahi Bridge for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).
The bridge will close daily from 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday 30 June to Friday 4 July for structural work, included bridge surface plank replacement. It will close again from 8.30am to 4.30pm on Saturday 5 July for sealing work. If the weather is wet on Saturday, the contingency day is Monday 7 July. Sealing requires dry weather, so if Monday is also unsuitable, sealing may have to be undertaken under stop/stop at a later date.
“The bridge is narrow, and due to nature of the work, full daytime closures are required,” says Sandra King, NZTA’s System Manager for the Bay of Plenty.
“We understand this is an important route and the closure is disruptive, but closing the bridge allows contractors to carry out repairs safely.
“This essential maintenance work has been programmed for the school holidays when traffic volumes are lower, and no school buses will be on the road.
“Contractors will be using the closure to its full potential by repairing and replacing broken and loose decking planks and carrying out other general maintenance such as checking surfacing screws and resurfacing,” Ms King says.
A detour will be in place for all traffic; northbound using Tāneatua Road, Arawa Road, Hinemoa Street and onto SH30 towards Awakeri and southbound traffic will use the same route in reverse. This detour is expected to add up to 20 minutes to journey times and is suitable for all vehicles, including High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMV).
NZTA thanks Whakatāne District Council for allowing the detour route on their local roads and road users for their co-operation.
Detour information below:
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government has expanded the criteria for medallic recognition for Defence personnel who have served in operations supporting the UN’s sanctions against North Korea, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today.
“This medal – the New Zealand General Service Medal (NZGSM) 2002 (Korea) – has already been awarded to 180 personnel and the move to widen eligibility means a further 350 personnel will be recognised,” Ms Collins says.
“Personnel who have served as part of Operation Whio – which monitors the United Nations Security Council’s sanctions against the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea – since 2018 are now eligible for this medal.
“Over the past seven years, there have been 19 rotations of Operation Whio – including seven deployments of P-3K2 Orion and P-8A Poseidon aircraft, aircrew and support personnel, and the deployment of HMNZS Aotearoa in 2024.
The aircraft and ship conducted and supported maritime patrols to detect and deter evasions of United Nations Security Council resolutions imposing sanctions against North Korea. The other rotations were of small numbers of staff officers in headquarters roles.
“This is another example of how we are contributing to upholding the international rules-based order.
“Previously this specific medal, the NZGSM 2002 (Korea), was only awarded to United Nations Command activities relating to preserving the Korean Armistice Agreement,” Ms Collins says.
“The men and women of our Defence Force rightly deserve this acknowledgement of their service.
“Our people do what we ask of them, when we ask it, often in trying conditions, and medallic recognition such as this is one way we recognise this.”
Source: New Zealand Government
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities in the Gisborne region are benefitting from $3.55 million in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief.
“Cyclone Gabrielle had a devasting impact on the East Coast, causing widespread destruction to property and requiring significant relief efforts. Now, one year after grant applications closed, 121 community organisations have received funding to rebuild thanks to the generosity of Kiwis who bought tickets to the special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief,” says Ms van Velden.
Funds raised from the special Lotto draw were passed on to the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust, which accepted grant applications until May 2024 and distributed all funds by October 2024. Grants were given to community organisations in regions where a state of emergency was declared for Cyclone Gabrielle, which were Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, East Coast, Hawke’s Bay, and Tararua.
“As well as repairing and replacing community facilities that were damaged by the cyclone, the proceeds of the lottery draw went towards upgrading local emergency services organisations so they can be better prepared for any future severe weather events”.
Gisborne projects that received funding include:
$49,916 to St John Gisborne Area to protect the ambulance station from flooding
$29,839 to the Pehiri Emergency Management Group for communications systems, emergency supplies, and equipment
$30,000 to the Ruatoria Volunteer Fire Brigade (Fire and Emergency New Zealand) to purchase and install additional water storage tanks to increase brigade water capacity and resilience for fire emergency response
$25,000 to the Tahunga Residents Association Incorporated for amenities and upgrades to the community hall so it can be used as an emergency hub
“Raising funds for important community projects is at the heart of what Lotto does. I’m pleased that the funds raised from this special Lotto draw went towards better preparing impacted communities for future events.”
The special draw was a part of the overall cyclone recovery effort and complemented the work that government, charities, mayoral relief funds, corporate partners and local fundraisers did in raising money to help with the response and recovery in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
The Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust was established by the Crown as an independent entity to distribute funds raised in the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal. The Trust allocated $14,511,916 in total across the regions affected to help recovery efforts, of which $11,770,000 came from the live Lotto NZ draw on 18 March 2023.
Source: New Zealand Government
Minister of Internal Affairs Brooke van Velden says that communities across Auckland are benefitting from $1.8 million in grants from funds raised through a special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief.
“Cyclone Gabreille had a devasting impact on parts of Auckland, causing widespread damage to property and requiring significant relief efforts. Now, two years on, 71 community organisations have received funding to rebuild thanks to the generosity of Kiwis who bought tickets to the special Lotto draw for Cyclone Gabrielle relief,” says Ms van Velden.
Funds raised from the special Lotto draw were passed on to the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust, which were then distributed to the community in regions where a state of emergency was declared for Cyclone Gabrielle, which were Northland, Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, East Coast, Hawke’s Bay, and Tararua.
“As well as repairing and replacing community facilities that were damaged by the cyclone, the proceeds of the lottery draw went towards upgrading local emergency services organisations so they can be better prepared for any future severe weather events.”
Auckland projects that received funding include:
$20,000 to the Titirangi Volunteer Coastguard Incorporated to replace equipment damaged in the cyclone
$21,921 to Karekare Surf Life Saving Club for essential search and rescue equipment to support lifeguard operations during extreme weather events
$30,000 to South Kaipara Good Food for water tanks, generators, irrigation systems and other equipment to support food resilience
$24,733 to Bethells Beach Emergency Resilience Group for equipment and resources for emergency support
“Raising funds for important community projects is at the heart of what Lotto does. I’m pleased that the funds raised from this special Lotto draw went towards relief for Aucklanders doing it tough in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.”
The special draw was a part of the overall cyclone recovery effort and complemented the work that government, charities, mayoral relief funds, corporate partners and local fundraisers did in raising money to help with the response and recovery in the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle.
The Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal Trust was established by the Crown as an independent entity to distribute funds raised in the Cyclone Gabrielle Appeal.
The Trust allocated $14,511,916 in total across the regions affected to help recovery efforts, of which $11,770,000 came from the live Lotto NZ draw on 18 March 2023.
Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa is congratulating Mercury Energy’s terminating its contract with Israel’s Ormat Technologies to design the Ngatamariki geothermal power station near Taupo.
PSNA Co-Chair Maher Nazzal says it appears Mercury has acknowledged the legal jeopardy of Israeli companies operating throughout the world.
“The International Court of Justice last year declared Israel’s presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territories is illegal and called on everyone to stop giving ‘aid or assistance’ to Israel which will help it to maintain its illegal occupation.”
“Mercury’s decision is in line the ICJ findings and we welcome it as a victory for the Boycott Divestment and Sanctions campaign to isolate Israel.”
“No New Zealand companies should have any dealings with Israel, either directly or indirectly.”
“Israel is a rogue genocide and apartheid state – a threat and an embarrassment to all of humanity,” Nazal says.“But the Ormat contract with Mercury is not the only one. We are now renewing our calls on Contact Energy to do the same and cut its links with Ormat Technologies.”
“If Contact doesn’t follow Mercury, then I’m sure many electricity consumers will take the Israeli connection in mind and so switch from Contact to Mercury.”
Maher Nazzal
Co-Chair PSNA
Here is a copy of the letter we sent to Contact Energy in November last year:
15 November 2024
Mike Fuge
Chief Executive Officer
Contact Energy
c/o Louise Wright
Head of Communications and Reputation
Kia ora Mr Fuge,
Contact Energy partnering with the racist apartheid state of Israel
We noted your media release of 13 November 2024 (“Contact invests to redevelop Wairakei”) which confirms Contact is investing to begin replacing the Wairakei geothermal power station.
What your release doesn’t mention is that you are intending to partner with an Israeli company, Ormat Technologies, through an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract to build the new plant. Ormat has confirmed this in their own announcement dated a day earlier.
It is not tenable for Contact Energy to sign off on this agreement and we are requesting the company withdraw from doing so immediately. Signing this proposed agreement would be a kick in the teeth for Palestinians suffering from industrial-scale slaughter at the hands of the apartheid state of Israel in which Ormat Technologies is embedded.
Ormat Technologies has its main production facilities based in Yavne, Israel. Yavne is a city build over the Palestinian town of Yibna from which Palestinians were ethnically cleansed in 1948 and to which they have sought their right of return since 1948, only to be denied by racist Israeli policies.
That Contact would even consider signing an agreement with an Israeli company in light of Palestinian calls for BDS (Boycott Divestment and Sanctions) against Israel and particularly after 13 months of genocide where most of the 43,000 confirmed victims have been women and children – is an outrage which makes a mockery of your carefully-crafted corporate story which claims to be based on “tikanga” and principles of respect for people and the planet.
We urge you to do the right thing today and dismantle your links with Ormat and any associated Israeli companies. Palestinians and Palestinian New Zealanders have the right to demand no less from you.
Please respond without unnecessary delay.
Ngā mihi.
Nā,
John Minto
National Chair PSNA
Source: New Zealand Police
Waikato Police uncovered methamphetamine, cannabis, a firearm, ammunition and a homemade taser during search warrants in Waihi yesterday.
Police, including the Armed Offenders Squad and drug detector dogs, executed the two search warrants in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Drugs, drug paraphernalia, firearms and ammunition, stolen property and a homemade taser were found. A firearm was also found in a concealed cavity in a wall.
“We see the harm that drug dealing causes to our communities daily,” says Inspector Mike Henwood.
“These warrants represent local police’s ongoing commitment to tackling drug offending in our rural towns and the associated crime that follows.
“Drug dealing takes a huge toll on our local communities and leads to other offending like thefts and burglaries from innocent residents and hard-working businesses.”
“I am really proud of the work the teams did investigating this offending – being able to hold these offenders to account shows our commitment to stamping out drugs in our community.
“Recovering the drugs and dangerous weapons that were present, alongside evidence of dealing, is a great result.”
A 33-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman are due to appear Hamilton District Court on drug dealing and weapons charges today.
If you have concerns about illegal drug use in your community, please call 111 if there is an immediate public safety risk or contact us via 105 online or by phone to make a report.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Attributable to Detective Sergeant Lucy Aldridge
Christchurch Police are releasing the above CCTV images in a further appeal for information on the whereabouts of 79-year-old Elisabeth Nicholls.
These CCTV images of Lis were taken during her last confirmed sighting at the Chateau on the Park in Riccarton, at around 7.54pm on Wednesday 4 June.
Since Elisabeth was reported missing, searchers and Police have gone door to door, reviewed CCTV footage, searched the Avon River, and made further extensive enquiries, but we have not been able to find Lis.
Today, Police deployed a drone in the Riccarton and Hagley Park areas between 8am and midday. We are now in the process of examining these images and reviewing what was captured.
Police are urging residents in the nearby area who have not yet done so to please check their backyards, sheds and sleepouts, and anywhere where a person could seek shelter on your property.
We, alongside Lis’ family, are seriously concerned for her wellbeing and are appealing to anyone with information to please contact us.
For anyone with CCTV, dashcam, or video footage in the Riccarton and Hagley Park areas between 6.40pm on Wednesday 4 June to 8am on Thursday 5 June, please review the footage you have and contact Police if you believe you see Lis.
When Lis went missing in the Riccarton area, she was physically strong, and may have walked some distance.
If you see Lis, please ring Police on 111 immediately. If you have information regarding her whereabouts, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 250604/5465.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government’s ensuring hundreds more students in Otago benefit from new, safe, warm and dry classrooms.
A $27 million investment into new infrastructure will help make sure schools meet the needs of their communities and gets ahead of new growth.
It will support the construction of:
Six new teaching spaces at Dunstan High School
A twelve-teaching space expansion at Te Kura Whakatipu o Kawarau
The investment is in addition to the purchase of a site at Ladies Mile in Queenstown last year, which will accommodate a new primary school in the area.
“Queenstown in particular, has had strong and steady growth over the last decade, and we are committed to ensuring they are equipped to teach the basics brilliantly. Planning for the two growth projects is underway and is expected to begin in the next 12 months. This means that students, families and the Otago community can benefit sooner,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.
“Funding for the construction of the new primary school at Ladies Mile will be considered in future years. Securing the land at this time means that we will be able to hit ‘go’ on construction when capacity is needed.”
This announcement builds on the Government’s commitment to ongoing investment in school property, and follows recent announcements to support growth in Canterbury, the Central North Island and provision of specialist education.
“Quality education is crucial to growing the regions. These new classrooms are an investment in the future of young learners in Otago Central Lakes and builds on the 120 new classrooms announced for Canterbury in the last month,” South Island Minister James Meager says.
“There is huge potential for Otago Central Lakes to become a hub for digital and tech investors, alongside our traditional backbone industries of tourism and agriculture. To enable that investment, we need to foster brilliance in our young people by investing in their future and building for growth. We also need a high-quality education infrastructure to attract the best quality workforce to our regions.”
“Our efficiencies in school property delivery allows more schools, communities and children benefit sooner. The use of standardised building designs and offsite manufacturing have lowered the average cost of a classroom by 28%, allowing 30% more classrooms to be delivered last year compared to 2023. We will continue to drive costs down so more Kiwi kids can thrive,” Ms Stanford says.
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is making New Zealand more attractive to international shipping lines with the first major investment in navigation services in more than 30 years.
Land Information Minister Chris Penk says the $28.6 million Budget 2025 funding secures the future of shipping, tourism and the maritime economy – highlighting the Government’s commitment to back economic growth.
“The investment enables safer and faster access to New Zealand’s ports, keeping trade flowing smoothly and reliably and provides confidence in shipping. This is key as more than 99 percent of our imports and exports move by sea.
“Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) and Maritime New Zealand are working together to create high-tech digital navigation tools based on the global S-100 standard. These tools will make navigation more precise, helping ships save fuel and cut costs while operating in our waters.
“The initiative will transform how mariners access and use data such as electronic charts, water levels, ocean surface currents and navigational warnings.”
Associate Transport Minister James Meager says the investment benefits both economic growth and maritime safety.
“Modern digital maritime data and services will enable freight-efficient, environmentally responsible shipping routes that boost trade and investment across the Pacific.
“The investment in high-tech infrastructure ensures our maritime and tourism sectors are ready to thrive, while enhancing safety and efficiency.
“Importantly, it positions New Zealand at the forefront of the shift to digital navigation technology, and signals to the world that we’re serious about supporting innovation, sustainabilitty and welfare at sea.
“Beyond New Zealand’s coastline, this initiative supports safer, more efficient shipping across our wider maritime region – including Antarctica and South-West Pacific nations such as the Cook Islands, Samoa, Tonga, Niue, and Tokelau.
“As we celebrate Matariki and reflect on New Zealand’s rich cultural history of navigating by the stars, now is the perfect time to look ahead toward building a resilient maritime economy for future generations.”
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are reminding road users that there will be zero tolerance for unsafe driving this Matariki Weekend.
“There was an unacceptable number of road deaths over King’s Birthday weekend, and we don’t want a repeat of that this weekend. If you are driving in a way that puts your own, or someone else’s, safety at risk, expect there to be consequences,” says Director Road Policing, Superintendent Steve Greally.
“We have zero tolerance for selfish drivers gambling with other people’s lives.”
Emergency services see first-hand the devastation that dangerous road behaviours cause, and the harm doesn’t end at the scene.
“One of the hardest parts of our job is knocking on a door in the middle of the night to tell a family that their loved one isn’t coming home,” Superintendent Greally says.
“Matariki is a time for families to come together and be with each other – please don’t do anything which would prevent that from happening.”
Police will be out on the country’s roads in increased numbers this weekend, with the clear intention to stop and prevent unsafe driving behaviour, day and night.
Our officers and road safety partners are undertaking a large amount of work to ensure the safety of everyone on our roads.
Many of us make long journeys over long weekends. We know that tired drivers make mistakes, so take regular breaks and split the driving with someone if you can.
Having your seatbelt on, driving to the conditions and not being distracted while driving can be the difference in walking away from a crash or being seriously injured or worse.
Information on holiday road toll periods can be found here: Safety — Road deaths | Ministry of Transport.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
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