Please attribute to Assistant Commissioner Mike Johnson:
Police acknowledge the findings by the coroner into the tragic death of three-year-old Lachie Jones who was found deceased in a Gore oxidation pond in January 2019.
Police will now need to consider the findings and the direction by the coroner for Police to undertake a third investigation. We will work diligently on all aspects we need to undertake to progress that with the appropriate resources and urgency to complete this direction as is required.
Police want to acknowledge Lachie’s family and the impact his death and the subsequent processes have had on them.
Police would also like to take this opportunity to recognise members of the public who came out on the evening Lachie was reported missing and searched for hours. We know that Lachie’s death has also had an impact on them and the wider Gore community.
Police have previously acknowledged but reiterate again today that our initial action following Lachie’s death fell short of the high expectations we set for ourselves. As a result of Lachie’s death, Police have implemented a national policy change which requires that CIB must be consulted for any death of a baby, child, or young person and where possible attend all scenes. The CIB will also be required to oversee or lead any investigation into the death of an infant or child under 10.
Our deepest thoughts and sympathies continue to be with Lachie’s family.
Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Baird,
Ten people have been arrested and are facing over 70 drug charges following a series of search warrants in Southland and Otago this week.
Police seized approximately $16,000, ammunition, drugs, and other drug paraphernalia.
The Southland and Otago Coastal Organised Crime teams executed the warrants as part of Operation Strata, targeting drug dealers with gang connections.
There were 15 warrants in total, in Invercargill, Dunedin, Gore, Mataura, and other rural properties.
The 10 people arrested face numerous serious charges, from supplying methamphetamine, MDMA, cocaine, LSD and cannabis, to possession of restricted weapons and ammunition.
Investigations are ongoing and we expect to make more arrests, and file further charges, in coming days.
Our message is clear – drug dealers are not welcome in our communities, and neither is the harm that comes with them.
Police will continue our focus on disrupting the supply of drugs to our communities, and holding to account those suppliers who make money through the harm and suffering of others.
Operation Strata involved over 30 staff from a number of Police groups across the Southern District and South Island, including the Te Waipounamu Gang Disruption Unit based in Christchurch.
If you have any information about the supply of illicit drugs, please contact us through 105, either online or via phone.
Information can also be reported to your local Police station, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.
We encourage anyone affected by drug addiction to seek help through Alcohol and Drug helpline on 0800 787 797, or free text 8681.
PSNA is calling on the government to immediately expel the Israeli ambassador from New Zealand.
PSNA Co-Chair, John Minto says Israel’s strikes on Iran are “unprovoked, unilateral and a massive threat to humanity everywhere.”
“This is such a dangerous action, that diplomatic weasel words about Israel are not acceptable. Israel is an out-of-control rogue state playing with the future of humanity. We must send it the strongest possible message.”
“Israel’s using its often repeated lies and misinformation to attempt to justify it’s unconscionable violence and aggression.”
Minto points to Iran’s right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes.
“Even US intelligence officials have made it clear very recently that Iran is NOT on the way to produce a nuclear weapon.”
“And neither is Iran committed to the “annihilation” of Israel. Iran does not support Israel as a racist, apartheid state and wants to see liberation for Palestine. In this, Iran has, along with the overwhelming majority of countries in the world, called for an end to Israel’s military occupation of Palestine, the end of its apartheid policies directed against Palestinians and the return of Palestinian refugees.”
New Zealand has the same policies.
Minto says our government must shoulder some of the blame for Israel feeling it can safely launch attacks on Iran.
“Appeasement of this apartheid state, as our government and other western countries have done over 20 months, has led Israel to believe it can get away within mass murder forced expulsions and managed starvation in Gaza, so that whatever it does it will be never be held to account”
“Only sanctions count – and just the first one must be the expulsion of the Israel ambassador with only giving him enough time to pack his bags.
Attributable to Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves,
Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Tingjun Cao today in the Christchurch High Court.
Mr Cao was sentenced to life imprisonment with 17 and a half years non-parole for the murder of Yanfei Bao.
A dedicated investigation team, supported by our forensic specialist partners, has worked tirelessly since July 2023 to tell Yanfei’s story and seek a resolution for her and her loved ones. I speak on behalf of all the staff involved when I say this case will stay with us forever.
Once again, I would like to acknowledge Yanfei’s family, both here in New Zealand and in China, who have showed nothing but strength, grace and courage over the last two years.
We would also like to thank all the members of our community who have provided valuable information since day one of our investigation. Your support, your observations, and your willingness to assist the investigation and prosecution, directly contributed to this successful result.
Yanfei was like so many of us, a much loved and admired woman, who was working hard to provide a better life for herself and her family. She had a fundamental right to be safe in her place of work and return home at the end of the day.
Violent men who harm women will not be tolerated in our community and New Zealand Police will hold offenders to account.
Violent men should feel under threat, not women and girls going about their lives.
While there is no outcome that can bring Yanfei back to her family, we hope that today’s sentencing can bring them some closure, as they continue to adjust to life without her.
This is just one part of the healing process and I hope her family can take some comfort knowing the person responsible has been held to account for his actions.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters’ visit to Indonesia today has secured tangible progress in New Zealand’s relationship with Southeast Asia’s most populous nation.
“Indonesia is an indispensable partner for New Zealand,” Mr Peters says.
“Demonstrating our commitment to the relationship, this is our fourth visit to Indonesia in the past 18 months, including for President Prabowo’s inauguration.
“We are pleased to have made tangible, concrete progress today across the Indonesia relationship, which will deliver benefits for the New Zealand and Indonesian people.”
Mr Peters, alongside Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono, announced in Jakarta today:
the conclusion of a cooperation arrangement on halal products, which will facilitate halal food trade between New Zealand and Indonesia;
the signing of an enhanced education cooperation arrangement, to facilitate student and research exchanges;
an increase from 45 to 70 in the annual number of scholarships for Indonesian students to study in New Zealand; and
a port visit by HMNZS Te Kaha to Jakarta later this month.
“By working more closely together, New Zealand and Indonesia are fostering mutual economic growth, deepening regional cooperation, and strengthening the connections between our people.
“The arrangement concluded today on halal is particularly noteworthy. Indonesia is recognising New Zealand’s domestic processes for certification of halal products. This will improve access for New Zealand meat and dairy into the world’s largest Muslim country.
“We are also pleased that the new arrangement on education will spur closer student and research exchanges.”
Mr Peters arrives back in New Zealand tomorrow, having completed a three-country tour of France (for the Pacific-France Summit and the UN Ocean Conference), Italy and Indonesia.
At the conclusion of their talks, Minister Peters and Sugiono released a joint statement.
Good Morning. It is a pleasure to be in Jakarta again today. Indonesia is an absolute priority for the New Zealand government, which is why we have now visited here four times since re-taking office as New Zealand Foreign Minister in late 2023. Indonesia is one of New Zealand’s oldest friends in Southeast Asia and our relationship is warm, deep, and broad-based. There is much that we admire about your country. We are ambitious for us to do much more together. Thank you to Minister Sugiono and his officials for hosting us today. We are always honoured by the extremely warm welcome here in Jakarta, and were proud to be here for President Prabowo’s inauguration last year. New Zealand is a partner to Indonesia for the long-term and we have strong ambitions to strengthen our relationship as we head towards 70 years of diplomatic relations in 2028. We are pleased, Minister Sugiono, that during this visit we have been able to make tangible, concrete progress on issues of importance to our peoples. On the economic front, we welcome the conclusion of a Cooperation Arrangement on Halal Products. This will facilitate the convenience, security and safety of halal food traded between our countries. New Zealand leads the world in agriculture and dairy productivity, and our high quality, safe and halal food products are a key export to Indonesia. We were pleased to discuss how New Zealand dairy exports can support President Prabowo’s flagship healthy nutrition programme – and to reiterate New Zealand’s commitment to working closely with Indonesia on agricultural cooperation, as Indonesia’s own dairy sector grows. On education, our governments are signing today an amended Cooperation Arrangement to enhance student and research exchange between New Zealand and Indonesia. New Zealand is also delighted to announce today a significant increase – from 45 to 70 – in the annual number of scholarships offered to Indonesians to do tertiary study in New Zealand. We look forward to welcoming an even greater number of Indonesian students to New Zealand to experience our world class education system and learn more about our respective cultures and countries. On energy, we are proud of our long-standing partnership in Indonesia’s renewable energy sector. Over the next 5 years, New Zealand will invest a further $15 million to support the development of renewable energy in Indonesia. We were pleased to reaffirm with Minister Sugiono our goal to increase two-way trade to NZ$6 billion by 2029 – noting that two-way trade with Indonesia increased by more than 43% in the past 5 years. Our trade is mutually beneficial. To achieve our ambitious trade target, we need to keep working together to unlock new trade opportunities. Indonesia is also a key partner for New Zealand in navigating increasing geostrategic complexities in the region. We discussed our collaboration on defence and regional security issues, including tackling transnational organised crime, the flow of drugs, and human trafficking. New Zealand also announced a new contribution to the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation, which reflects New Zealand’s long-standing partnership with this world class facility. We are also pleased to announce the visit by HMNZS Te Kaha this month to Jakarta. New Zealand will also participate in Exercise Super Garuda Shield, a major United States-Indonesia exercise aimed at reinforcing security ties across the Indo-Pacific. So, this has been a very productive visit. New Zealand and Indonesia are making concrete progress together, in a wide range of areas. This is befitting the high ambition that our two countries have for the relationship. Minister Sugiono, your hospitality has been a reflection of the warmth and respect that underpin our bilateral relationship. We eagerly await the opportunity to host you in New Zealand at your earliest convenience. Thank you very much.
The Privacy Act applies to any person, organisation, or business that collects and holds personal information about other people. This includes social clubs, charities, societies, and community groups regardless of the age of its members.
Personal information held by these clubs needs to be collected, stored, and used in a way that is lawful, even if you’re a voluntary organisation. Personal information includes names, addresses, phone numbers, email addresses, offices held, awards, skills, references, recordings and photographs – essentially any information that identifies people.
This information could be about members and former members, but also about employees, contractors, people working at stalls, and service providers who’ve helped with things like training or coaching, IT, marketing, administration, financial assistance, or maintenance and repairs.
It can be held in minutes of meetings, newsletters and correspondence, on membership databases, and websites. It includes information in hard copy or electronic form and if it’s collected by a person taking sign-ups for an event, a digital camera, or a biometric scanner.
People who have access to this personal information, including volunteers, will also need to be aware of their privacy responsibilities and need to comply with the law.
Your responsibilities
Like all agencies in New Zealand, clubs and societies should only collect the personal information about the club’s volunteers and members that is necessary. Tell people why their information is needed and get their permission to share the information where it needs to be shared. Keep it safe. Don’t give it out without permission. Don’t keep it longer than necessary.
You also need to appoint someone as your Privacy Officer, whose role it is to make sure the club complies with the Privacy Act. They can be a volunteer or member of your club.
Privacy rules
The Privacy Act has 13 Information Privacy Principles (IPPs) that govern how you should collect, handle, and use personal information. These include rules for collecting, holding, and using personal information. Our Privacy ABC Course is a great way to learn about these.
If you’re thinking about collecting personal information, the first thing you should consider is why you’re collecting it.
Only collect what you need. Generally, you should collect information directly from the person it’s about and tell them what you’re doing and why. The best way to do this is usually with a clear privacy statement. Our Privacy Statement Generator makes writing that easier.
You must keep the personal information you hold safe and secure. You may need a locked cabinet for physical documents, or password protection for electronic files. Make sure only appropriate people can access the information and that you know who they are and that they’re current members of the club.
By law, you must give people access to the information you hold about them if they ask for it and take reasonable steps to correct their information if it’s wrong.
People have a right to access information about themselves. This includes material like:
references to that person in minutes of a meeting
correspondence that the person has had with the society
decisions made about the person
details of complaints made about the person
material from their personal file, if they work for the society.
Before you use personal information, check that it’s accurate, up-to-date, complete, relevant and not misleading.
The Privacy Act doesn’t specify how long you can keep personal information – only that agencies shouldn’t keep information for longer than they need it.
Only use information for the purpose you collected it. If you’ve told people what their information will be used for, and who it may be disclosed to, you will generally be able to use and disclose it in those ways without a problem. For example, if you collected a person’s email address to send out notices of meetings then you can’t give it to another club in town to recruit for members.
Be careful about who you disclose (share) information to, both within and outside your organisation. This usually means having the permission of the person involved.
You also need to dispose of personal information securely so one else can retrieve it.
Good privacy tips
Consider who will be able to see any of the personal information collected and held by the organisation, for example, membership lists.
A common way for a society to ensure that it has accurate information is to use annual subscription notices to encourage members to check their details and send in corrections, updates, or changes of address.
Check with people if you’re using information in a new way, for example, putting a team photo on the internet (including social media) may still technically be within the purpose for which it was taken, but it’s still best to check that members are happy with this new use of the information. Not everyone wants their photograph or their name on the internet.
If your club has a privacy breach that could cause serious harm, you will need to report that to our Office. We have a tool that will help you assess whether a breach needs to be notified, which you can find here.
Relevant examples
We’re here to help you
We understand that whether playing petanque, softball or canasta, you’re not thinking much about how to keep people’s personal information safe and secure, and it may be your first time dealing with our office.
If you have any questions, you can ask us for help. You don’t need to engage a lawyer. We are here to try and assist clubs to remedy a privacy issue and come to a resolution.
While we can’t give specific legal advice on individual problems, we are happy to help by giving general advice, for example, about how the Privacy Act works.
If you think your club or society needs a privacy statement, you can create one using our Priv-o-matic privacy statement generator. It is free to use and only takes a few minutes.
We also have answers to over 600 questions on the AskUs facility on our website, which you might find helpful.
There are also free privacy training modules to help you learn more. These modules are a great way to start learning about privacy. They will take you less than an hour to complete, and they cover the basic principles of each topic. If you just want to learn general privacy knowledge, or you don’t know where to start, we recommend starting with an ABC module.
Good police work intercepted an alleged thief looking for an easy ride in Auckland early this morning.
Around 3am two offenders arrived at a warehouse on Taylors Road, Morningside.
“The van both offenders were travelling in was used to force its way through roller doors at the address, damaging them enough to gain entry,” Auckland City West Area Prevention Manager Inspector Wayne Kitcher says.
Both offenders entered the address and took several large boxes containing e-scooters before driving away.
A short time later Police located a man allegedly loading the same e-scooter boxes into a different vehicle, only a few minutes from the scene.
The boxes were identified as identical to the ones taken from the premises.
“The original vehicle was later discovered hidden at an address only a few hundred metres away from where staff apprehended this man,” Inspector Kitcher says.
“This was a good result by our staff who put a stop on these alleged offenders being able to benefit from the proceeds of crime.
“Ram raids have trended downward in recent years, and we continue to prosecute this offending if it occurs.”
A 37-year-old man appeared in Auckland District Court charged with receiving stolen property.
Inspector Kitcher says enquiries remain ongoing to locate the second offender.
Two men are before the courts following two incidents in Marton.
At approximately 10pm on 10 May, Police were called to an alleged aggravated robbery at a commercial premises on Broadway.
After closing and securing the premises, the employee was confronted by the alleged offender who hid in the ceiling space of the property.
The offender threatened the employee with a weapon and demanded a large amount of cash before fleeing the area on foot.
Thankfully, the employee is not injured, however was understandably shaken by the incident.
After an investigation into the incident, Police identified the alleged offender, and found that the man had allegedly committed a burglary at the same premises in April.
This week, Police arrested and charged two men in relation to the two incidents.
Police are pleased to have made arrests in relation to this matter and hold the alleged offenders to account.
We recognise the significant impact this type of offending has on our community and that it can be incredibly distressing.
Police takes this offending seriously, and we hope these arrests reassure the community that we have absolutely no tolerance for incidents like these.
A 39-year-old Nelson man appeared in Porirua District Court on 12 June, charged with aggravated robbery and burglary. He was remanded in custody and is due to reappear on 17 June.
A 49-year-old Palmerston North man is due to appear in Palmerston North District Court on 17 June, charged with aggravated robbery and burglary.
His Excellency Sugiono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, and Rt Hon Winston Peters, Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand, convened the 12th meeting of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) on 13th June 2025 in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Ministers welcomed meeting in person, underscoring the importance of regular consultations between themselves, Leaders and other Cabinet colleagues to strengthen the relationship in ways that deliver real benefits and advance shared values. The Ministers celebrated the cooperation between Indonesia and New Zealand under the Comprehensive Partnership agreed by Leaders in 2018, and the achievements under the 2025-2029 Plan of Action. The Ministers committed to intensify cooperation across the seven pillars of the Comprehensive Partnership to strengthen bilateral ties and achieve the ambitious goals set out in the 2025-2029 Plan of Action.
Reviewing the implementation of the first year of the Plan of Action 2025-2029, and way forward
“Friends for Good” Ties
The Ministers acknowledged intensive recent engagement between the two countries, including Minister Peters’ attendance at President Prabowo’s inauguration in October 2024, and meetings between our Prime Minister and President, and Foreign Ministers at APEC in November 2024, as well as increased engagements by senior officials. Both Ministers agreed to further increase two-way dialogue and acknowledged the importance of face-to-face engagement, and regular hosting of key relationship architecture meetings, in maintaining our “Friends for Good” ties. The Ministers agreed to encourage relevant stakeholders to bolster bilateral relations and cooperation, including through bilateral defence talks and the annual Senior Officials Meeting on Trade and Investment Framework. Both Ministers also noted the significant potential for promoting Parliamentary and civil society exchanges to further strengthen bilateral and people-to-people ties. Enhancing Trade and Economic Partnerships to Advance Growth of Both Economies The Ministers highlighted the importance of enhancing mutual prosperity and strengthening trade and economic connections. Ministers recalled the goal in the Plan of Action to grow two-way trade to NZ$6 billion by the end of 2029. They highlighted the need for New Zealand and Indonesia to increase mutual cooperation in the face of global economic uncertainty. Both Ministers highlighted the importance of resolving non-tariff trade barriers to ensure trade continuity and growth. Ministers welcomed agreement of the Cooperation Arrangement on Halal Standards. The Arrangement will facilitate the convenience, security, safety and certainty of halal food traded between our countries. Ministers noted the intent for New Zealand and Indonesia to work together to further support the Indonesian national program of food resilience and the Nutritious Meal programme.
The Ministers noted the positive trend of New Zealand’s investment in Indonesia, and agreed to continue efforts to encourage investment flows. Ministers welcomed the year-round direct flights between Auckland and Bali and committed to continue to work towards unlocking the full potential of enhanced air connectivity to facilitate increased people-to-people, business and trade flows. Both Ministers reconfirmed the importance of a rules-based, free and open trade environment, with the World Trade Organisation at its core, as critical for the regional and global economy. The Ministers welcomed the implementation of the upgraded ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), which entered into force in April 2025, and ongoing cooperation under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The Ministers acknowledged the process of Indonesia’s accession to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) as an important step to foster economic integration, accelerate economic reform, and support mutual prosperity. Both Ministers reaffirmed their nations’ commitment to preventing illegal money laundering and other illegal financing activities to enhance financial integrity and transparency and to further promote economic growth and development.
Renewable Energy and Environment Cooperation The Ministers highlighted the importance of renewable energy, including geothermal cooperation, which has been a significant part of the relationship since the 1970s and welcomed the renewed Partnership Arrangement in renewable energy and energy conservation signed in September 2024. Ministers announced a further NZ$15 million investment in Phase 2 of the New Zealand-Maluku Access to Renewable Energy Support (NZMATES 2.0) programme to continue to improve access to reliable, renewable electricity for remote and small islands while building local industry service capacity. The Ministers acknowledged strong collaboration between the Indonesia and New Zealand geothermal industries, including under the Pūngao Ngawha (Panas Bumi) Indonesia-New Zealand Partnership Programme (PINZ), that provides access to New Zealand’s world-renowned technical and training capabilities, with the aim of assisting Indonesia to further accelerate the development of its geothermal energy sector and broader energy transition. The Ministers emphasised their shared commitment to adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change under the Paris Agreement and expressed willingness to expand climate related and environmental cooperation through comprehensive climate change dialogue that includes both mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Education, Tourism, Science, Technology and Innovation, and People-to-People Cooperation
Ministers welcomed the significant increase in the annual allocation of tertiary scholarships under the Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship Programme (MNZSP), from 45 to 70, for Indonesia for this year and the next two years, reflecting their mutual dedication to deepening people-to-people connections, strengthening capacity in renewable energy and public governance, and developing disadvantaged regions. The Ministers welcomed the Arrangement on Education Cooperation to refresh areas of cooperation, including increased education and higher education policy dialogues to enhance education system development and resilience. The Ministers underscored the importance of enhancing people-to-people connections, particularly in education and tourism, as a bedrock of strong bilateral ties. Both Ministers welcomed the exchange of cultural missions and promotions to serve this purpose. Ministers welcomed further exchanges of officials’ level visits to New Zealand focused on good governance, public sector performance and integrity and other sectors to advance bilateral relations. The Ministers encouraged closer cooperation between Indonesia and New Zealand in supporting research collaboration as highlighted in the Arrangement on Education Cooperation.
Development Cooperation Both Ministers welcomed the past year’s implementation progress under the Statement of Partnership (SoP) 2025-2029 signed in July 2024 and reviewed in May 2025. The SoP has strengthened and elevated both the development relationship and mutual commitment to focus on development cooperation and other strategic issues and is strongly aligned with Indonesia’s national priorities in two areas: climate and economic resilience; and inclusive human development.
Defence, Security, Cyber and Maritime Cooperation
Ministers acknowledged New Zealand and Indonesia’s long-standing defence relationship and committed to continuing to strengthen these ties, including through regular Defence Ministers’ meetings. They welcomed the upcoming visit to Jakarta by New Zealand Navy ship HMNZS Te Kaha and the recent visit by the Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy. The Ministers announced new funding towards ongoing cooperation on security issues through continued support for the Jakarta Centre for Law Enforcement Cooperation (JCLEC). The funding provided by New Zealand will enable the continued delivery of high-quality capacity building initiatives and collaboration between law enforcement agencies to combat transnational organised crime in the region. The Ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to the Bali Process and welcomed progress against the Adelaide Strategy for Cooperation, which sets out the priority areas of cooperation for the Bali Process Working Groups. This includes an upcoming Joint Tabletop Exercise co-hosted by New Zealand, Indonesia, Australia and Viet Nam, through the Working Group on Disruption of Criminal Networks Involved in People Smuggling and Trafficking in Persons from 23 to 26 June 2025. The Ministers agreed to continue to implement the refreshed cooperation arrangement on counter-terrorism, and identify opportunities for dialogue on preventing violent extremism. Ministers highlighted the importance of active participation by our militaries in training activities, annual defence talks and joint exercises, including Exercise Super Garuda Shield.
Regional and Multilateral Agenda
The Ministers emphasised ASEAN’s central role in the dynamic regional architecture and their shared commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation through ASEAN-led mechanisms and processes, particularly the East Asia Summit (EAS), the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus). The Ministers welcomed the ASEAN-New Zealand Joint Statement on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific in 2023 to maintain regional stability and to serve as a framework to strengthen bilateral relations to advance economic relations and maritime governance under international law. The Ministers welcomed the implementation of the ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action (POA) (2021-2025) and its substantial progress achieved across the four themes outlined in the POA – Peace, Prosperity, People, and Planet. They further welcomed activity throughout 2025 to commemorate 50 years of dialogue relations between New Zealand and ASEAN, including preparations under way for a Commemorative Summit in Malaysia in October. Minister Sugiono confirmed Indonesia’s support for New Zealand’s proposal to elevate the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and noted the development of a new ASEAN-New Zealand Plan of Action (2026-2030) to guide future cooperation. Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining and promoting security and stability in the South China Sea. Ministers underscored their strong support for freedom of navigation and overflight and unimpeded trade, and their unwavering support for the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Ministers emphasised the need for the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly UNCLOS. In this regard, Ministers recalled the 2016 ruling of the South China Sea Arbitral Tribunal, constituted under UNCLOS. They underscored the importance of further progress towards an effective and substantive Code of Conduct that is consistent with international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS. Ministers expressed concern about the conflict and humanitarian crisis in Myanmar. Ministers called on stakeholders and parties in Myanmar, in particular the armed forces and security forces concerned, to immediately cease violence, including the targeting of civilians, and to engage in inclusive dialogue. Ministers emphasised the importance of a peaceful, stable and unified Myanmar, affirmed their strong support for ASEAN-led efforts in line with the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus and encouraged the international community to work together in a pragmatic and constructive way to support peace and stability in Myanmar. The Ministers expressed concern about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and reiterated their calls for all parties to cease all hostilities; release all remaining hostages; facilitate the rapid, safe, unimpeded, and sustained delivery of humanitarian aid; adhere to international humanitarian law; and protect aid workers to enable their lifesaving work. Ministers reaffirmed their support for the implementation of a two-state solution consistent with international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. Ministers exchanged views on the war against Ukraine and reiterated support for efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace. In that context, Ministers continued to reaffirm their respect for sovereignty, political independence and territorial integrity, and reiterated their call for compliance with the United Nations Charter and international law. The Ministers acknowledged the challenges to the multilateral system from shifting geopolitical dynamics, a tightly constrained financial environment and increasingly complex global risks. They reaffirmed their strong support for multilateralism and the international rules-based system, and acknowledged its important role in underpinning global stability, resilience and prosperity. The Ministers committed to collaborating on efforts to strengthen the multilateral system, increase inclusivity and transparency, and to safeguard and advance human rights, in order to support a system that is more responsive to today’s challenges.
Conclusion
Ministers reviewed the implementation of the Plan of Action for 2025-2029 and discussed their common interest in advancing bilateral cooperation and delivering tangible outcomes. Both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to utilise and advance the implementation of existing cooperation frameworks to deliver our shared interests. Both Ministers were ready to explore more cooperation in the future to support both nations’ interests, as confirmation of their strong stance as Friends for Good. Minister Peters expressed his sincere gratitude to Minister Sugiono and the Indonesian Government for the warm welcome and hospitality accorded to him during the visit, and looked forward to hosting Minister Sugiono at the 13th JMC in New Zealand in 2026.
At least four new rapidly deployable relocatable inpatient units will be rolled out across the country to ensure hospitals can continue delivering care to patients while major infrastructure projects are underway, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.
“These new inpatient units – part of the Government’s $1 billion Budget 2025 investment in hospital infrastructure – will help ensure patients can receive their surgeries while permanent hospital redevelopments are progressed,” Mr Brown says.
“Each unit will provide between 28 and 32 beds, delivering a rapid uplift of at least 112 inpatient beds across the country. With a design life of up to 50 years, these relocatable units can be moved between sites depending on clinical need and demand, providing a flexible and future-proof solution.”
Mr Brown confirmed that the first of the new units will be delivered in Nelson, where it will support service delivery during the redevelopment of Nelson Hospital. One unit for Hawkes Bay announced earlier this year will also be part of this deployment.
“This is a smart, cost-effective, and adaptable approach that will enable Health New Zealand to maintain continuity of care while we invest in long-term hospital infrastructure. It’s another example of the Government delivering practical, results-focused solutions to improve access to healthcare.”
The relocatable inpatient units will be designed and built to meet relevant design standards, ensuring the same high standard of care as permanent hospital facilities.
“This approach has already proven effective at Wellington Regional Hospital, where a temporary inpatient ward was successfully deployed during the copper pipe remediation programme. A similar unit is currently being built at Hawke’s Bay Hospital.
“By expanding on these proven models, we can respond more quickly to population needs and relieve pressure on hospitals while long-term builds are underway.
“This Government is focused on delivering practical solutions that improve access to care and support our long-term plan to build a health system that works for all New Zealanders.
“Whether it’s through innovative builds like these relocatable units or progressing major redevelopments, we’re making sure the health system has the capacity it needs – not just for today, but for years to come,” Mr Brown says.
We should have suspected something when the cloud strike shut down occurred.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu needs to continue war so that he is never held to account.
This madness is the last straw.
NZ must immediately expel the Israeli Ambassador for this unprovoked attack on Iran.
As moral and ethical people, we must turn away from Israel’s new war crime, they have started a war, we must as righteous people condemn Israel and their enabler America.
This is the beginning of madness.
We cannot be party to it.
Al Jazeera’s Nour Odeh, reporting from Amman, Jordan, said the Israeli army radio was reporting that in addition to the air strikes, Israel’s external intelligence service Mossad had carried out some sabotage activities and attacks inside Iran.
“There are also several reports and leaks in the Israeli media talking not only about the assassination of the top chief of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard but rather a very large number of senior military commanders in addition to prominent academics and nuclear scientists,” she said.
“This is a very large-scale attack, not just on military installations, but also on the people who could potentially be making decisions about what Iran can do next, how Iran can respond to this attack that continues as we speak.”
Attributable to Assistant Commissioner Deployment Tusha Penny
Police can today confirm preliminary findings of an audit into the application of recruitment standards for police officers.
The audit followed the discovery in April that discretion had been applied to some applicants who failed the Physical Appraisal Test (PAT) but were accepted into training at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC).
We looked at 1022 recruits from 14 wings which started training between January 2024 and April 2025.
There were eight individuals who did not meet all the requirements of the PAT and were allowed to begin training at the RNZPC. A further nine passed individual components of the PAT on different dates, in breach of the policy, and were progressed. The policy requires all components be passed during one testing session.
All subsequently passed the Physical Competency Test (PCT) which is required before a recruit can graduate.
In the interests of transparency and to assess the full extent to which discretion was being used, the audit was expanded to include all other pre-employment testing over the same time period.
This included the psychometric test, the English literacy testing and typing.
Police must be proficient in English. Literacy testing is only required of applicants who do not have level 2 NCEA English or higher or comparable international qualifications.
Of the 1022 recruits, 267 were required to do the test and 128 did not pass.
All applicants passed psychometric testing before beginning at RNZPC but 36 that initially failed were allowed to re-sit without a six-month stand down period between tests.
This stand down period is considered good practice by the provider Police uses to administer this test.
One person did not pass the typing test, which requires a typing speed of 25 words a minute.
All recruits who were given discretion and have since graduated did pass all mandatory tests required to graduate.
In response to the findings, the Commissioner has made it clear that the use of discretion falls short of his expectations and standards.
He has instructed there is to be no further use of discretion to allow people to enter RNZPC without first meeting all mandatory recruitment standards.
There will be no exemptions and no circumstances where discretion is applied.
The findings also raised concerns about inconsistencies and confusion around the criteria and application of discretion in some cases.
While discretion has long been used in exceptional cases, the audit makes it apparent it has increasingly been accepted as common practise over recent years.
Any suggestion a tolerance had developed for accepting lower standards than those set for recruitment is of concern to the Commissioner.
The Police recruitment process is designed to be thorough and robust and there are good reasons for the standards required.
The literacy assessment is designed to be relevant to the work required of police staff.
The ability to communicate well under pressure is critical for an officer’s own safety and those of their colleagues, as well as the public.
Police is committed to serving our communities by having the best possible people in our organisation.
We have an incredible organisation of men and women from diverse backgrounds and experiences, who work hard in, and for their communities.
NZ Police officers are proud of the standards that are required to join.
We have many staff who have English as a second language.
These people add immense value to our organisation and to the communities they work in.
That is why ESOL support is available at RNZPC for recruits who need it, as well as other learning support for recruits.
However, all recruits must meet the required standard before they begin training with us.
Policing is a very rewarding career.
The findings from this audit will support our ongoing work to recruit and train world-class police officers.
There is guidance and support on preparing for the pre-entry tests on www.newcops.govt.nz for people who want to join.
That includes physical training plans to prepare for the PAT and guidance on how to upskill in areas required to meet the requirements.
The report on the preliminary findings is attached.
Police have arrested a 44-year-old Christchurch man who has evaded Police since August last year.
The man, a known gang associate, had made significant efforts to avoid arrest, including breaching his conditions, failing to appear in court and frequently changing vehicles and addresses.
Following an extensive investigation into his whereabouts, Police launched a targeted operation involving the newly formed Gang Disruption Unit, the Offender Prevention Team, and the Canterbury Rural Tactical Crime Unit.
Thanks to information provided by the public and swift action by Police, the man was successfully located and arrested yesterday.
His bail has been opposed, and he is appearing in Christchurch District Court today.
He now faces 15 charges, 11 of which relate to drive-offs from self-service petrol stations in the Waimakariri area.
Police remain committed to ensuring offenders are held to account and thank the public for their assistance in bringing this individual into custody.
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointment of Liz Gellert as an Associate Judge of the High Court. Associate Judge Gellert graduated from the University of Auckland in 2003 with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and a Bachelor of Arts. She was a law clerk with David Williams KC before joining Russell McVeagh’s general commercial litigation team in 2004. Associate Judge Gellert joined Simpson Grierson as an Associate in 2007, becoming a Senior Associate in 2008, specialising in banking and finance litigation. She joined ASB Bank as head of disputes and corporate advisory in 2017, and spent time as the bank’s legal services acting general manager during 2020 and 2021. Since 2021 Associate Judge Gellert has been a litigation partner with Lowndes Jordan in Auckland, with a general commercial litigation practice focusing on general commercial litigation, insolvency, debt recovery, enforcement, regulatory advice and maritime law. Her appointment is effective from 21 July and she will sit in Auckland.
Police have seized nearly 500 firearms from a property in Gore – a shocking discovery that is believed to be one of New Zealand’s largest seizures of weaponry.
Police are now piecing together exactly how the man came to be in possession of so many firearms, and have begun the process of logging each one into evidence.
Concerns about the man’s purchasing history led officers to his home in Gore on Friday 6 June to serve a notice of temporary suspension – an order allowing Police to retain a firearms licence holder’s licence and uplift any firearms in the person’s possession.
A total of 478 firearms of different descriptions were seized, including five pistols, some that may be prohibited firearms, and some that may be restricted weapons, for which the man was not licenced. Significant quantities of ammunition, and firearm parts were also recovered.
Only six of the 478 firearms were registered in the man’s name, and while some were locked in safes, a large number were unsecure.
“It’s shocking to see so many firearms unsecured… the scale of it is concerning,” said Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman.
It was largest seizure of firearms ever seen in the Southern District “by far”.
No charges have been laid, but that may change, depending on the investigation, Inspector Bowman said. It will look at why the weapons weren’t registered or stored properly, and what was the purpose of such a vast collection.
Inspector Bowman said it was too soon to say if any of the firearms were destined to be sold to criminal groups. “A number of enquiries are being made into this discovery, but the sheer number of firearms involved means that will take some time.”
Unusual purchases
It was the man’s purchase history that caught the attention of officials.
“Through the Firearms Registry, the Firearms Safety Authority was able to establish the man had purchased multiple firearms since 2023, and not all were registered as they should have been after purchase,” Inspector Bowman said.
“In buying a firearm, the man was required to register older firearms already in his possession, and we allege that did not happen.”
Because of the number of firearms located, multiple Police vehicles were required to transport them from the property.
The firearms, ammo and parts will be held securely by Police until the investigation, and any legal action that may follow, is complete.
Their future is unclear: “It’s still early days in the investigation and we have a lot of work to do before we get to that point.”
Swift action after red flags raised
Firearms Safety Authority Executive Director Angela Brazier, said the case highlighted the value of the Firearms Registry, and of close co-operation between the Authority and frontline Police.
“Information shared by Police enabled us to quickly suspend the man’s licence for failing to comply with his Registry obligations. Once his licence was suspended, Police could rapidly respond to remove this considerable number of unlawfully held firearms.
“The majority of firearms licence holders are good law-abiding people. The review of the Firearms Registry released in May confirmed that diversion of firearms to the black market remains a threat to public safety and the Registry mitigates that risk.
“I acknowledge all licence holders who have filled in the Registry and are doing their bit to make it harder for criminals and other unlicensed people to access firearms.”
Two years into its five-year journey there are more than 86,000 active licence holders registered, or 38 per cent of active licence holders. Around 29 per cent of those registered did so proactively, without waiting for the legal requirement of an activating circumstance.
There are more than 425,000 firearms listed in the Registry.
“With the snow continuing to fall and roads becoming extremely icy at nights, our teams made good calls to do some overnight closures between Fairlie and Twizel in recent days,” says NZTA system manager Mark Pinner.
“While we know these closures can be disruptive for some, I have no doubt that those decisions helped to prevent accidents and stranding of vehicles that could have led to much longer closures and even greater disruption. We know this because we have already had to deal with stranded and crashed vehicles in the last week as people were caught out by the weather and road conditions.”
“Preventing travel when the risk is at its highest also means less risk posed to emergency services that get called in to help when something goes wrong.”
“Closing down the highway overnight enabled our crews to work around the clock safely, to remove snow and de-ice, grit the roads, and then to lead vehicle convoys at controlled speeds through the affected stretch of highway to allow reopening.”
“Our crews have done some outstanding work on SH8 and other South Island highways over the last week to minimise the impacts on motorists and residents.”
More freezing temperatures are expected in the Mackenzie Basin this weekend, meaning the risk of icy roads again.
“We will be monitoring the situation closely to see if any further closures are needed,” Mr Pinner says.
Key considerations for winter driving include adjusting speeds to suit the conditions, being visible, increasing following distances on slippery roads and avoiding sudden braking or turning movements.
“Winter has only just begun and we know there will be plenty more weather events to deal with. If everyone plays their part, then it makes life easier for all of us.”
The best place to get the latest highway information and for planning ahead is NZTA’s Journey Planner.
Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
New Zealand’s residential uptake of rooftop solar is lower than many other countries. In order to shift the tide, the Government is making changes to:
Expand the permitted voltage range from +/- 6% +/- 10% – this will help manage the changing flow of electricity sent back to the grid from rooftop solar, as well as growing levels of electric vehicle (EV) charging.
Clarify that a building consent is not needed to install rooftop solar panels on existing residential buildings.
Require councils to process building consents for new homes with solar panels within 10 working days, down from the standard 20 working days.
Expanding the voltage range allows the Government to future-proof New Zealand’s electricity networks in a cost-effective way by avoiding passing on significant costs of network upgrades needed to accommodate rooftop solar and EV charging on to consumers. Modelling suggests that this could boost solar investment and overall generation by 507 GWh through increased solar connections.
Meanwhile, changes to the Building Act to exempt rooftop solar installation from needing building consent aim to ensure consistent decision-making across the country and remove barriers for homeowners interesting in adopting solar. The shortened building consent process for new homes with solar panels will support Kiwis to incorporate solar into their build plans and make the most of the benefits of rooftop solar.
Auckland Council has received more than 2,250 submissions on the proposed Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Deed of Acknowledgement following public consultation in April and May this year.
The proposed Deed – between Auckland Council, Te Kawerau ā Maki, and the Department of Conservation – would set out a framework for working together to better protect and care for the Waitākere Ranges, recognising the enduring relationship tangata whenua have with the area and the responsibilities shared under the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act 2008.
Council staff have completed a preliminary assessment of public feedback and are now workshopping advice and options with elected members to help shape decisions on next steps. Overall, more submitters supported the proposed Deed elements than opposed them.
Ngā Mātārae Director Māori Outcomes, Nicholas Turoa, says the feedback received during the submissions process reflects strong public interest in the future of the Waitākere Ranges.
“We’ve heard a wide range of views – from strong support to a range of concerns – but the common positive thread is that people care deeply about the Waitākere Ranges. The proposed Deed is about improving how we work together for the good of the Ranges, while remaining consistent with our responsibilities under the Treaty and ensuring positive outcomes for the community as well as the Waitākere Ranges.”
The proposed Deed of Acknowledgement would include:
A shared strategic plan for the Heritage Area
Coordinated work programmes to deliver that plan
Joint monitoring of outcomes
A proposed joint committee including Auckland Council, Te Kawerau ā Maki, and the Department of Conservation.
Final decisions are expected in August 2025, following further engagement with partners and elected members.
A full report and analysis of submissions will be released publicly as part of the formal decision-making process.
Headline: Local Tree Icon – A Finalist for Tree of the Year NZ 2025
One week into voting for New Zealand’s 2025 Tree of the Year, and the competition is already taking root in the hearts of Kiwis nationwide and abroad. Run by the NZ Notable Trees Trust, Tree of the Year is a celebration of the iconic trees that shape our landscapes, memories, and communities.
The return of wool carpets to state homes has been welcomed by Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis and Associate Agriculture Minister Mark Patterson. State housing agency Kāinga Ora announced today that from next month, a new supplier agreement will deliver woollen carpets for the fit-out of new state homes. “The decision is great news for sheep farmers, and all the New Zealanders whose jobs and incomes are tied to the fortunes of our world-leading wool industry. “The Government wants wool producers to have more opportunities like this, which is why in March we issued a directive to 130 Government agencies requiring them to purchase woollen products for building construction and refurbishment, wherever practical and appropriate. “Kāinga Ora’s new supplier agreement was made possible because the agency chose to re-open an initially nylon-only carpet tender and give wool a chance to compete. “I’m told woollen carpet manufacturers responded very strongly to that opportunity and that the new carpet supply agreements come with no additional cost. “The message is clear: When wool was put back on the table it more than held its own, delivering value for taxpayers and a win for sheep farmers. “This proves the value of the Government’s moves to give wool a fair shot in publicly funded procurement decisions. “We have directed that from 1 July all public entities must use woollen fibres, where practical and appropriate, in government buildings. The new policy, announced in April, directs agencies to identify opportunities to use woollen products, and to properly consider a range of factors in procurement including whole-of-life cost, sustainability and health benefits. “We’re leveraging government spending to back the wool industry and the New Zealand economy. I hope private businesses will follow our lead.” Mark Patterson says the move continues to deliver on a New Zealand First and National Party coalition agreement to prefer the use of woollen fibres in government buildings. “Woollen fibres create safer, healthier and more sustainable living environments for families. “We know farmers will share our enthusiasm about this announcement. It is another example of us doing our bit. The Government is determined to help lift the fortunes of the strong wool sector in supporting our sheep farmers” Mr Patterson says.
The Government is expanding the permitted voltage range for electricity networks, so Kiwis with solar panels can send more power back to the grid.
Changes are being made to clarify that a building consent is not needed to install rooftop solar panels on existing buildings.
Councils will be required to process building consents for new homes with solar panels within 10 working days, down from the standard 20 working days.
Common sense changes in the energy and building consent systems will drive greater residential solar uptake in New Zealand, Energy Minister Simon Watts and Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk say.
“New Zealand’s residential uptake of rooftop solar is lower than many other countries. This Government wants to change that so more Kiwis can generate, store, and send their own electricity back to the market. This will allow them to save on their power bills and contribute to a more secure electricity system,” Mr Watts says.
“Rooftop solar will play a crucial role in supporting energy security and reducing emissions. But our networks need to be able to better support the growing flow of electricity from consumers, while also dealing with growing demand for more electric vehicle charging.
“That’s why we are expanding the voltage range from +/- 6 percent to +/- 10 percent to manage the changing flow of electricity from rooftop solar and EV charging. This will future proof our electricity system and help electrify the economy.
“Modelling suggests this change could boost solar investment and overall generation by a whopping 507 GWh through increased solar connections. This is great for the security of our energy supply.”
Mr Penk says the building consent system can help accelerate the shift towards renewable energy.
“We need the right incentives in place to make rooftop solar a realistic option for Kiwis.
“The Government is focused on getting people into safe, affordable homes faster – and we want those homes to be sustainable and future-ready. “With the energy system preparing for a surge in residential solar, the consenting process needs to play its part to support the transition. “We are proposing changes to the Building Act, that will make it clear that a building consent is not needed to install rooftop solar panels on existing buildings.
“Right now, decision-making is inconsistent between councils – creating unnecessary barriers for homeowners who want to take responsibility for their environmental impact and make sustainable choices. “As a further incentive, we are also proposing that Kiwis who choose to include solar panels in the design of new homes will have their entire building consent fast-tracked and processed in 10 working days instead of the standard 20 working days, saving Kiwis around $400 a day in time and consenting costs.” “Delivering the best outcomes for New Zealanders is incredibly important to Minister Penk and me. Expanding the voltage range could help avoid hundreds of millions of dollars in infrastructure upgrade costs to accommodate rooftop solar and EV charging being passed on to Kiwi households,” Mr Watts says.
“Combined, these common-sense and cost-effective changes will boost the resilience of New Zealand’s electricity supply, make it easier and cheaper for Kiwis to build sustainable homes, and spur New Zealand’s residential solar market into the future.”
Notes to editors:
New Zealand appliance standards have aligned with international +/-10% voltage requirements since the 1980s, meaning compliant appliances should already operate safely within the new voltage range.
Consumers using older devices that don’t meet New Zealand or international appliance standards may use a surge protector, but consistent high-end voltage delivery is unlikely.
The expert modelling referred to in this release was prepared by grid connection specialists, ASNA.
The ability of New Zealanders to access and better understand New Zealand’s history will be undermined by proposed cuts to the workforce at Manatū Taonga Ministry for Culture and Heritage.
The agency is proposing a net loss of 24 roles or 16% of the workforce. This follows Budget cuts which slashed funding by $8 million over the next four years. The proposed job losses follow last year’s cuts which saw the workforce fall from 182 to 155.
The cuts, if carried out, will decimate the agency’s workforce of historians, with six of the ten historians proposed to be shown the door.
“How can the Ministry continue to do its important work of preserving our history and ensuring New Zealanders can continue to access to it? said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“This is yet another decision that exposes the short-sighted thinking behind the Government’s funding cuts.
“The proposal to cut historians threatens the existence of Te Ara Encyclopedia of New Zealand, which is a vital online resource for New Zealanders and a window to the rest of the world to learn about our rich history.
“For 20 years Te Ara has been the first port of call for information about New Zealand history. Millions of people visit Te Ara every year, including teachers, students, researchers, and New Zealanders with an interest in our history.”
Manatū Taonga is also proposing disestablishing the team that supports the website.
Other casualties include those responsible for the education programme that supports Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, a resource schools depend on. A project to enhance understanding of the dawn raids following the official apology is also at risk.
Manatū Taonga is proposing to disestablish the roles that enabled it to produce websites honouring the 28th Māori Battalion and recording the history of New Zealand’s participation in the Vietnam war.
“All these projects are vital for people to share their own experiences and for all of us to remember and understand our past and how it shapes us today.
“The Ministry’s purpose is to do work that ‘enriches the lives of New Zealanders’ – but the Government is clearly ignorant about how history and heritage contributes to that – it’s appalling.”
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahiis Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.
The CLNZ | NZSA Writers’ Award of $25,000 is one of the highest value non-fiction prizes in New Zealand literature and it is now open for applications.
He $25,000 te nui o te Karāti Kaituhi o te CLNZ me te NZSA, te karāti mātua mo ngā pakimaero-pono o ngā momo-tuhinga o Aotearoa. Ka taea e ngā Kaituhi te tuku tono mō tēnei karāti.
Awards $25,000 cash grant to a New Zealand writer Assists with research and associated costs Is one of the highest value prizes awarded for non-fiction in New Zealand Is open now for entries
The award was established to provide financial support for writers wishing to devote time to a specific project, and to cover reasonable research expenses relating to it. Writers with work in a broad range of non-fiction genres, including educational works, can apply.
The Copyright Licensing New Zealand (CLNZ) and the New Zealand Society of Authors Te Puni Kaituhi o Aotearoa (NZSA) Writers’ Award has supported the creation of Rebecca Macfie’s book Helen Kelly: Her Life (Awa Press), a biography of one of New Zealand’s political leg
Headline: Auckland’s Fairy Tree Trails the Field in National Voting
Auckland’s own Fairy Tree, nestled in the heart of the Domain, is currently languishing in last place in the 2025 New Zealand Tree of the Year competition—but there’s still time for a fairy-tale comeback.
The Government is delivering 32 more safe, warm and dry classrooms and a major school redevelopment for Kiwi kids living in the Central North Island.
“As communities continue to grow, we remain committed to future-proofing our education system so parents have certainty about where to send their child to school. We’re not only building more classrooms, but we are also building more opportunities for children to thrive.
“This package is about making sure our schools can keep up with the needs of their communities so more students have access to fit-for-purpose learning environments,” Education Minister Erica Stanford says.
It includes:
4 classrooms at Hamilton East School in Hamilton, 2 classrooms at Waipawa School in Hawke’s Bay, 3 classrooms at Maungatapu School in Tauranga, 2 classrooms at Te Kauwhata Primary School in Waikato, and 2 Classrooms at Kawerau South School in the Bay of Plenty.
Further to this, Taihape Area School will benefit from a major redevelopment, getting 19 new classrooms, including a hard technology classroom, and the multipurpose hall and gym space will be strengthened to improve its seismic performance. This project will meet the needs of the school, taking a standardised and value for money approach to address long-overdue seismic and weathertightness issues.
“The Taihape community has been loud and clear for almost a decade that their school property is not fit-for-purpose. Students and staff have been teaching and learning in sub-standard classrooms for too long. This investment will make sure children are set up for success in the classroom.”
“Construction on these projects will begin over the next 12 months, which means schools, families, and communities can start experiencing the benefits as soon as possible,” said Ms. Stanford. “We are powering up efficiencies in school property delivery so more schools, communities and children benefit sooner. The use of standardised building designs, offsite manufacturing, and streamlining procurement 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 this down so more Kiwi kids can thrive,” Ms Stanford says.