NewzIntel.com

Category: New Zealand

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Property Market – NZ’s Rental Homes Are Ageing – And the Clock Is Ticking

    Source: Property Brokers

    With less than a month until the 1 July 2025 Healthy Homes Standards deadline, the latest Regional Rental Report from Property Brokers reveals a pressing reality: New Zealand’s rental housing stock is ageing – and fast.
    According to the report, the average rental property managed by Property Brokers was built in 1968. In some regions, homes dating back to the 1940s are still actively rented. David Faulkner, General Manager of Property Management for Property Brokers, says this presents both a challenge and an opportunity for landlords.
    “We manage a significant proportion of older homes, and retrofitting them to meet compliance is now more urgent than ever,” says Faulkner. “But compliance isn’t just a box to tick – it’s a chance to add long-term value. A warm, dry, well-ventilated home is more attractive to tenants, encourages longer stays, and can command better returns.”
    The Regional Rental Report – co-authored by Professor Graham Squires of The Property Knowledge – draws on a sample of over 8,000 active rental properties across regional New Zealand. It highlights the mismatch between modern compliance standards and an ageing housing stock.
    “It’s often assumed that renters live in older homes, and this data confirms that assumption,” says Professor Squires. “However, there’s a wider conversation to be had about housing supply, regional development, and the economic viability of upgrading versus rebuilding. Older homes still dominate much of the rental market, particularly outside the major metros.”
    Key insights from the report include:
    – Papamoa leads with the highest average rent at $697 per week, with stock averaging from 1997.
    – Rolleston and the Selwyn District have the youngest rental stock, due to Christchurch’s post-earthquake rebuild.
    – Dunedin and Oamaru feature the oldest active rentals, averaging from the mid-20th century.
    – Newer homes like those in Rolleston have shorter average tenancy lengths (16 months), while older homes in places like
    Carterton show longer tenancies, despite the age of the stock.
    Faulkner says the Healthy Homes deadline has brought long-overdue attention to housing quality.
    “The cost of non-compliance – from fines to lost income – is far greater than the cost of doing it right. We’re actively working with landlords to meet the standard and future-proof their investments,” he says.
    Squires adds that evolving tenancy tr

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Advocacy – “Look busy – the people are angry” in the face of genocide – Government brings shame on us all! – PSNA

    Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA)

    The government’s decision to sanction Israeli cabinet ministers is a cynical diversionary gesture, according to the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa.

    New Zealand has joined the UK, Australia, Canada, and Norway in banning the entry of Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

    PSNA Co-Chair, Maher Nazzal, says the just announced move is simply to placate New Zealanders angry at the government’s complicity with the mass killing of Palestinians and deliberate starvation of Occupied Gaza.

    “The New Zealand government statement was quite explicit that the sanctions were ‘not designed to sanction the wider Israeli government’ of which Ben-Gvir and Smotrich are ministers.”

    “The New Zealand government’s official statement is laying the blame for Israeli barbarity on just two ministers.  Our government is pretending that they alone are responsible for the military violence in the Gaza Strip, and Israel’s annexation of Palestinian land, expanding settlements, and forced displacement.”

    “All these war crimes are supported and stated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government.  These measures are all being carried out by the Israeli government.  These two ministers are quite rabid, but they are not just freelancers or ‘bad apples’.”

    “Netanyahu himself is wanted for trial on war crimes charges, so why does he escape the travel ban?”

     Nazzal says Ben-Gvir and Smotrich would never plan to come to New Zealand anyway.

    “The last time such an individual visited in 2006 the Auckland District Court issued a warrant for his arrest to face war crime charges.” (That was Israeli General Moshe Ya’alon – the ‘Butcher of Qana’.  The warrant was quashed by the then Attorney-General Michael Cullen)

     “Even if the government sanctioned the entire Israeli cabinet, it would be meaningless.”

    “Israel has made Gaza hell on earth for Palestinians, and is making it worse by the hour.  We should be cutting trade ties – including military technology, which might be finding its way to Israel, or sending up satellites from Mahia used by Israel to spy on Gaza.

    “New Zealand has bilateral agreements with Israel over science and movie-making.  They should stop.”

    “The government needs to ban Israeli soldiers coming here for genocide holidays, instead of Winston Peters going out of his way to welcome them.”

    “And it goes without saying that the Israeli ambassador should be booted out.”

    Nazzal says the forced starvation in Gaza has reached a crisis point.

    “The choice for the international community is stark.  Let tens of thousands starve to death in the next few weeks, or impose a no-fly zone over Gaza and provide military protection for UNRWA aid convoys.”

    “In that context, by limiting the travel options for two Israeli politicians our government feels like it’s conveying a message of  “Look busy – New Zealanders are angry, we must be seen to be doing something, but really,  we don’t care.”

     

    Maher Nazzal

    Co-Chair PSNA

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – Select committee announces support of law changes that will prevent councils from restricting harmful pollution of water – CCW

    Source: Choose Clean Water – Tom Kay


    A select committee report released today demonstrates Coalition parties support law changes that would prevent local government from being able to control pollution even when it is causing serious harm, say freshwater campaigners.


    “The damage these changes would cause must not be underestimated. This is not only an attack on the health of our environment but also democracy as the proposals seek to give greater power to polluting industries and write local government out of regulating harmful pollution of freshwater,” says Choose Clean Water spokesperson Tom Kay. 


    “It beggars belief when you consider that the National-led Government came to power claiming to be champions of localism – they’ve thrown that out the window completely.”


    For freshwater, two parts of the Environment Select Committee report are most significant; the proposals on Section 70 of the Resource Management Act and changes to farm plans, including more Ministerial control.


    Currently, Section 70 says that councils cannot allow pollution that would cause “significant adverse effects on aquatic life” as a permitted activity. This means regional councils cannot allow for potentially polluting activities to happen without them going through a consenting process to assess whether they can avoid, remedy, or mitigate their impacts, even where an environment they want to operate in might already be polluted.


    The Coalition parties support doing away with this and allowing polluting activities to go ahead, as long as the place those activities are occurring is already polluted and as long as there will be some reduction in that pollution over time. 


    “But it doesn’t make sense. It is laughable that the report suggests you could grant a consent for an activity to add pollution to a place or continue polluting it now as long as it reduces its pollution by a bit, later. Why would we say ‘We’ll make a waterbody really sick now so we can nurse it back to health over decades’!? Make it make sense.” 


    Even with standards for these permitted activities, campaigners regional councils will struggle to ensure they are sufficient to reduce or avoid “significant adverse effects on aquatic life” and will face significant lobbying to minimise any standards.


    “This opens the door to more and worse pollution. Pollution that harms aquatic life inevitably has an impact on human lives, either directly due to illness or through impacts on livelihoods or taking away the things with love about the places we live in.”


    The Coalition parties in the select committee also support changes that would bypass regional councils’ role in controlling pollution through farm plans.


    Farm plans have been a largely unsuccessful attempt to reduce the impact of farming on the country’s freshwater over the last decade or more. In regions where they have been used, like Canterbury, they have been found to be unable to stop the degradation of communities’ waterways and drinking water sources. 


    “Not only is the value of farm plans in controlling pollution highly questionable,” says Kay, “the Select Committee’s proposal is to give Government the ability to support farm plans written and audited by polluting industries rather than regional councils, and to allow the Minister for the Environment to make the decision on which industry groups can play this role. This keeps regional councils at arms length from attempts to control pollution through farm plans, effectively writing them out as regulator.”


    “This Government has demonstrated it has close and inappropriate relationships with some industry bodies. Having a Minister be responsible for such a decision opens the door to undue influence and allows for industry to capture the whole process around farm plans. We’re watching it happen now. This proposal effectively writes local government out of their regulatory role of controlling pollution.”


    “It has never been clearer that the National-led Government is working for the polluters and not for the public. Our communities will pay for this through the impact on our quality of life, our drinking water sources, our opportunities to swim or fish, our pride in our beautiful environment, and our ability to be involved in local decision making.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: World Vision – Aotearoa gearing up for the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge Weekend (13-15 June)

    Source: World Vision

        

    Rangatahi across New Zealand are gearing up to tackle a range of unique tasks for the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge this weekend (13-15 June). 

     

    The nation’s largest youth fundraising event kicks off this weekend and is encouraging participants to go offline for 40 hours to raise funds for hungry children in Solomon Islands. 
      

    A rite of passage for young New Zealanders, the World Vision 40 Hour Challenge, gives rangatahi a platform to champion important causes and raise funds for those in need, while putting themselves to the test with a unique or difficult challenge. 

    There is no shortage of creativity in the challenges that will be undertaken for 40 hours this weekend, including:  

    • Living in a cramped dinghy  
    • Speaking only Shakespearian English  
    • Making 400 paper cranes 
    • Cooking 500 meals 
    • Running 100 kilometres  
    • Kayaking 40kms 
    • Going fully off-grid tramping 
    • Completing 40 acts of kindness 
    • Planting thousands of trees 

     

    This year ’s World Vision 40 Hour Challenge is calling on youth to give up technology and go “offline for 40 Hours” to unplug, disconnect, and get together with their fri

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Name release: Fatal house fire, Trentham

    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 Trentham, Upper Hutt on Tuesday [10 June] morning.

    He was 69 year old, John Louis.

    Police extends our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.

    The cause of the fire is not believed to be suspicious.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: NZ’s newest stretch of state highway now open to traffic

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    The first vehicles have now started travelling over Te Ahu a Turanga, the new 11.5 kilometre highway connecting Ashhurst to Woodville.

    The highway has officially become State Highway 3, replacing the old Manawatū Gorge Road, which closed in 2017 following slips.

    From the west, the road crosses the Manawatū River over the 300 metre long Parahaki Bridge, and then over the Eco-Viaduct, which takes motorists across an ecologically sensitive wetland complete with swamp maire and raupō.

    The road then climbs through the Ruahine Range, with cuts to the hills of 55 metres and embankments 28 metres high – many of which are ‘benched’ – sloping backwards to minimise the risk of erosion. 

    The road weaves between the wind turbines, flanked by the shared user path on one side and thousands of new native plants along the highway. All up, more than 1.8 million plants have been added to the landscape – along the road and also away from it.

    “A special occasion”

    Project Manager Grant Kauri says seeing the first vehicles travel the road this morning was a special moment.

    “The closure of the Manawatū Gorge road had such a significant impact on people in Manawatū and Tararua. We know the surrounding communities have struggled with the closure so being able to build them a significantly more resilient, safer and efficient road has been a huge privilege.

    “The road’s importance to the wider central and lower North Island, including the East Coast, can’t be overstated. Te Ahu a Turanga will encourage more travel, while supporting economic growth in the regional economies,” says Mr Kauri.

    Community support and connection

    Communities either side of the gorge are equally invested and excited about the new highway.

    Joy Kopa, from the Positively Woodville community group, says residents and businesses in the town have been holding their breath for the opening.

    “It is strange to think we now have a young generation who have never travelled through “the gorge” and have no memory of the road that served Woodville for so long. This new highway will be the new gateway to Tararua and Woodville is proud to be the town that welcomes travellers to our district.”

    Central Economic Development Agency is based in Palmerston North and its CEO Jerry Shearman says the new road will unlock numerous long-term benefits for the region and the country.

    “With Manawatū being home to one of the three key nodes of distribution and logistics in New Zealand, we’re beyond excited to have this significant piece of infrastructure completed. The new highway will bring transformative benefits to the Manawatū region and beyond, particularly in strengthening New Zealand’s national distribution and logistics network.

    “Opening up this highway supports the growth trajectory of Te Utanganui – the Central New Zealand Distribution Hub and will ultimately make the movement of goods between ports, processing plants, and distribution centres more efficient, attracting new businesses to the area by improving access to central North Island markets and beyond.

    “In short, Te Ahu a Turanga is a catalyst for economic development, logistical efficiency, and regional resilience and is a crucial development in Stage One of the Manawatū Regional Freight Ring Road project. For Manawatū, it reinforces its role at the heart of New Zealand’s transport and freight network.”

    “More than a road”

    Mr Kauri said the project is so much more than a road. The alliance working on the project has placed focus on genuine iwi partnership, health and wellbeing and environmental sustainability.

    “We worked as partners with five iwi who were represented at all levels of the project, including governance, management and operations. Their crucial role on the project can be seen in many areas but especially in the wetlands and stream diversions and in the array of stunning mahi toi artwork on the lookouts, structures and roundabouts.

    “The project planted 46 hectares of native forest and created 28 kilometres of stream rehabilitation. It has protected 48 hectares of existing forest and provided pest control of 300 hectares of already protected forest reserve,” says Mr Kauri.

    More than 2500 people were inducted to work on the project, while an even wider group of suppliers provided materials and equipment.

    “A key principle of the project is to create enduring community outcomes, which means there is a focus on helping people living in the communities around the project. Some of these aims included, a focus on local and iwi employment, procurement, cultural wellbeing, education and training, and support for schools, charities and community organisations.”

    “Over the past few years, we’ve had so much support from communities on both sides of the gorge, they’ve been with us since day one and we’re truly grateful to everyone for being so patient with us.

    “We are honoured to share such a beautiful piece of road and landscape with those communities.”

    Useful facts

    • The speed limit will be 100km/h.
    • The gradients at each end of the road are 10% (Ashhurst) in the west and 8.5% in the east (Woodville).
    • There are roundabouts at each end. These are the only turning points on the highway.
    • The highway has two lanes divided by a flexible median barrier.
    • There are four lookouts on the highway and three rest areas.
    • There are mahi toi cultural artworks at two lookouts, on bridges and at the roundabouts at each end.
    • The Western Gateway Park at the Ashhurst end of the highway is open to the public but is expected to be fully completed later in 2025. The current carpark surface is chip seal but will be replaced with asphalt in coming months.
    • Construction staff will be working in areas away from the highway until later in 2025. This work includes completing the planting, creating recreational tracks at the western end of the highway and removing site offices and compounds.

    Te Ahu a Turanga – Manawatū Tararua Highway.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Intersection and State Highway changes for Picton

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    Picton residents and drivers can expect to see improvements on State Highway 1 and at key intersections from next year.

    Drop-in sessions are planned so the community can find out more about the improvements for the state highway and three intersections.

    The changes will improve the town’s roading network and the way vehicles access the ferry terminals.

    Regional Manager System Design Richard Osborne says ever since the Interislander ferry terminal was relocated to Lagoon Road in 2023, all vehicles accessing the ferry terminals have been using Kent Street.

    “Traffic volumes have increased on Kent Street, whereas flows on State Highway 1 Nelson Square/Wairau Road have decreased.”
    “Kent Street has been acting as the de facto state highway. This is one of the key aspects the Picton -Road Network Improvements Project wants to address,” Mr Osborne says.

    However, the project is more than just altering the route and designation of State Highway 1.

    Mr Osborne says other improvements are also planned for Picton’s roads.

    “As well as altering the designation of Kent Street as State Highway 1 and making Auckland Street and Wairau Road local roads, we will also make changes to three key intersections to make it easier for traffic to navigate Picton’s streets.”

    Mr Osborne says the community can learn more about these changes by coming along to one of our drop-in sessions next week, before designs are finalised and construction begins.

    “Construction is currently scheduled for mid-next year after the busy summer period. We are timing it, so we do not disrupt the town and its businesses during its busiest time of the year.”

    “However, we are sharing these plans now so the public can see what’s proposed and we will continue to update the public as the project progresses.”

    Mr Osborne says the designation and revocation will be subject to a Notice of Requirement under the Resource Management Act.

    Mr Osborne says these are significant changes to Picton’s road and transport network, and we want to make sure everyone knows what is going on. We know people will have questions and we will try our very best to answer them.”

    Find out more:

    • Attend one of our drop-in information sessions at the Picton Library and Service Centre Waitohi Whare Mātauranga, 2 Dublin Street, Picton
      • Tuesday, 17 June, 3:30pm – 4:30pm
      • Wednesday, 18 June, 12:30pm – 2pm and 6pm – 7:30pm
    • Visit our website – www.nzta.govt.nz/pictonproject
    • Questions? Email: pictonproject@nzta.govt.nz

    SH1 Picton Road network improvements project information sheet [PDF, 2.9 MB]

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Christchurch Police renew call for help in search for Elisabeth Nicholls

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Attribute to Detective Sergeant Lucy Aldridge of Christchurch Police:

    Today marks a week since Elisabeth “Lis” Nicholls was last seen, and we are making a further appeal to the people of Christchurch for help. 

    Lis is 79 and has dementia and the last confirmed sighting of her was at the Chateau on the Park in Riccarton, at 7.54pm on Wednesday 4 June.

    Searchers and Police have gone door to door, reviewed CCTV footage and made extensive enquiries, but we have not been able to find Lis.

    We do not know where she travelled to after the Chateau and have not been able to locate any items that would lead us closer to her.

    Police have grave concerns for Lis’s welfare and need the help of the Christchurch community to bring her home.

    At the time she disappeared, Lis was wearing a black and grey checked long-sleeved shirt, a maroon long-sleeved top underneath, navy blue jeans and black leather shoes.

    She also has distinctive grey shoulder-length hair.

    Police are asking members of the public to please search your backyards, sheds and sleepouts, and look under anything where a person could seek shelter.

    For anyone with CCTV, Police would like you to review any footage you have from 6.40pm on Wednesday 4 June to 8am on Thursday 5 June. While Lis went missing in the Riccarton area, she is physically strong, and may have walked some distance.

    Finally, this past week has been extremely difficult on Lis’s family.

    While they have requested privacy, Gary Nicholls, Lis’s husband of nearly 60 years, has provided this statement on behalf of their family:

    “Lis is an adored wife, mother, grandmother, friend and colleague, who has always put other people first.

    “Her life has been about helping people, through nursing, Plunket and social work. She has been there for people when they needed help, and her influence has touched all our lives for the better.

    “We are deeply concerned and have been living with painful uncertainty for a week, but we have been grateful for the love and support that has been shown for Lis.

    “On behalf of Lis, our family and friends, I would like to sincerely thank the people of Christchurch for their help and concern, and for the information they have been providing.

    “We are also grateful to Police, the Search and Rescue teams, Canterbury University students and the Victoria Neighbourhood Association, who have been dedicating so much time and resource to help us find Lis.

    “You have been working in the cold, the rain, and the darkness to bring Lis home to us, and we are incredibly grateful.”

    • Anyone who sees Lis should ring 111 immediately and use the reference number 250604/5465. Non-urgent information can be provided online at 105.police.govt.nz, using “Update Report”, quoting the same reference number.

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Speaker of the House to visit Japan on official delegation

    Source: New Zealand Parliament –

    Media Release

    6 June 2025

    Rt Hon Gerry Brownlee, Speaker of the House of Representatives, will travel to Japan from 8–13 June to meet with his counterpart, Hon Fukushiro Nukaga, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan. He will be accompanied by a cross-party delegation consisting of Greg O’Connor, Maureen Pugh, Teanau Tuiono, and Mariameno Kapa-Kingi.

    During the visit, Mr Speaker will hold official talks with Speaker Nukaga and engage with other senior parliamentary leaders, including the President of the House of Councillors and members of the National Diet of Japan

    The delegation will begin its programme in Tokyo before travelling to Hokkaido. Alongside parliamentary engagements, the visit will include meetings with business and community leaders, as well as organisations with strong connections to New Zealand.

    ENDS

    Inter-Parliamentary Relations are a way for members of New Zealand’s Parliament to keep Parliament relevant, effective, and innovative. Dialogue between members of different parliaments increases mutual understanding between countries, develops best practice, and ensures New Zealand is playing an active part in the international community. Members’ active participation in inter-parliamentary activities improves their knowledge and insights as legislators, which in turn improves parliamentary scrutiny of Government

    For media inquiries, please contact communications.team@parliament.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Rural News – Federated Farmers president gets rural wellbeing fund across the line

    Source: Federated Farmers

    A $4 million Rural Wellbeing Fund announced today at the Federated Farmers Advocacy Hub at Fieldays is a great win for rural advocacy groups, Wayne Langford says.
    The Federated Farmers president has led the way in pushing the Government to deliver increased investment into rural mental health – an issue close to his heart.
    “It’s hugely rewarding to get this across the line. I’m absolutely stoked the Government are making such a meaningful investment in the mental health of our rural communities.
    “Federated Farmers have been involved every step of the way – but we haven’t been alone. The likes of DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb, Young Farmers and Rural Women have been right there with us.”
    Langford says the extra $4 million from both Ministers Todd McClay and Matt Doocey to expand the investment in community-based wellbeing initiatives may be matched by industry partners, for a total pool of $8 million.
    “The investment is significant in terms of the dollar amount, but the real value will come in having a much more coordinated approach that brings all the energy and focus into one place.
    “In practice, we’re going to see the sector coming together to ensure we’re investing in the initiatives that bring the best results and make a real difference in people’s lives.
    “That will cut out a whole heap of waste, remove all the duplication, and make sure every dollar invested in rural mental health is working as hard as it possibly can.”
    Langford says, as a country, we’ve moved past the stage of simply acknowledging and building awareness of the importance of strong mental health.
    “It’s great that we’ve come such a long way with rural mental health awareness, but now it’s time for action.
    “Supporting groups like Surfing for Farmers, Farmstrong, FirstMate and NZ Young Farmers, who are doing the mahi on the ground, is so important.”
    A five-member panel with representation from the primary sector will be established to assess project applications.
    Projects must demonstrate strong local delivery, provide clear benefits to rural people, and ability to attract co-investment from industry and sector partners.
    In announcing the funding, Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay paid particular tribute to advocacy by Langford, who he described as a long-time champion of rural wellbeing and mental health.
    However, Langford says a strength of the initiative is that all the primary industry groups are united in the desire for action.
    “With funding in place, we can now get some changes happening and make a real difference.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tīeke return! Remote Hauraki Gulf Island thriving after rat eradication

    Source: NZ Department of Conservation

    Date:  11 June 2025

    It is the first official re-introduction of a native species since DOC and Ngāti Rehua eradicated rats from Rakitū in 2018.

    “The Department of Conservation and Ngāti Rehua have a goal of more translocations with tieke being the first species to return,” says DOC Aotea Operations Manager Fletcher Beazley.

    Formed from the remains of an eroded volcano, Rakitū was first discovered by Ngāti Rehua ancestors 800 years ago and has been a place of significance ever since.

    Since 2018 when rats were eradicated, the island has seen a strong return of its unique flora and fauna including native birds and rare large-leaved forms of rangiora, tawa and kawakawa.

    DOC and Ngāti Rehua are working together on restoring the nature of Rakitū says Fletcher. This work is making a difference, with clear evidence of nature bouncing back.

    “Since rats were eradicated, we’ve seen the mauri/lifeforce returning to the motu. Without rats eating the seed, groves of young taraire trees are now appearing.

    “As skink and gecko populations recover, DOC staff are now finding the tracking cards used for rodent surveillance are covered in lizard footprints.

    “More translocations will only be possible if we restore the mauri of the forest, control predators and pests and by DOC, Council, Iwi and Community working together as one. By doing this the Mana of Aotea and Rakitū will be restored and the sounds of birdsong will be preserved for our mokopuna to enjoy,” says Fletcher.

    Tīeke were once abundant through Aotearoa, including on Rakitū but are very susceptible to predation by rats. By 1964 Taranga/Hen Island was home to the last remaining population of North Island tīeke.

    After several successful translocations from Taranga (Hen Island) in the 1960s, North Island tīeke now live on several island and mainland sanctuaries.

    On Taranga (Hen Island), these taonga are cared for by Patuharakeke and Ngatiwai. The successful eradication of rats from Taranga (Hen Island) in 2011, with the support of both iwi and hapu, has created an environment where taonga species can thrive and has made a translocation like this possible.

    The birds were carefully transported between Taranga (Hen Island) and Rakitū by helicopter.

    Contact

    For media enquiries contact:

    Email: media@doc.govt.nz

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Partnership approach to FMD signed and sealed

    Source: New Zealand Government

    A new agreement between the Government and key livestock industry groups marks a major milestone in New Zealand’s readiness for a potential foot and mouth disease (FMD) outbreak, Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard announced today.
    “The Foot and Mouth Disease Operational Agreement confirms how Government and industry will jointly prepare for, and respond to, a possible outbreak – including how costs will be shared,” Mr Hoggard said.
    Six industry organisations – DairyNZ, the Dairy Companies Association, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, NZPork, Deer Industry New Zealand, and the Meat Industry Association – have signed the agreement with MPI, which takes effect from 1 July 2025 for five years.
    “An outbreak could cost up to $3 billion to eradicate, but doing nothing would be far worse – potentially slashing export values by $14.3 billion per year until it’s controlled,” said Mr Hoggard.
    “Through this agreement, we’re locking in a truly collaborative approach. Industry will contribute 40% of readiness costs and 15% of response costs – capped at $450 million – and in return, they’ll have a formal seat at the decision-making table.”
    Mr Hoggard says the agreement reflects years of work and a shared commitment to protecting New Zealand’s vital livestock sector.
    “This is a significant and practical step forward for our national biosecurity system.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Public consultation begins on legal aid review

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Public consultation begins today aimed at improving the legal aid scheme for those who cannot afford advice and representation, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith says.
    “We have a duty to ensure all New Zealanders have access to justice by means of a fair and open process. 
    “To do so, we need a scheme that is efficient and sustainable. However, we know it’s no longer fit for purpose. 
    “We’ve heard from the judiciary, lawyers, and others that changes are needed to address difficulties facing providers and those who need assistance.
    “The scheme was last reviewed in 2018 and a lot has changed since then. This will provide an opportunity to ensure the scheme is efficient, is of good quality, and promotes access to justice in a way that is sustainable and cost-effective.
    “I encourage everyone to make a submission and ensure their voice is heard. This feedback will help frame the advice on options for the future of the scheme.”
    Submissions close with the Ministry on 23 July and can be made at: https://consultations.justice.govt.nz/policy/triennial-review-of-legal-aid
    Further information about the review, including the discussion document, can be found here: Legal aid scheme review | New Zealand Ministry of Justice 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Stock damage to stopbanks puts community at risk

    Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council

    Date:

    With the winter months here, we’re urging landowners to keep stock off stopbanks in wet conditions.

    Stopbanks are our primary defence against river flooding in many areas of our region, protecting communities and preventing property and infrastructure damage.

    The structural integrity of a stopbank is vital to its function, and livestock trampling and overgrazing can cause significant damage and lessen protection against floodwaters, particularly in wet conditions. 

    “Our stopbanks play an essential role in keeping us safe, managing river flows and minimising flood risks to prevent widespread damage, distress and even loss of life,” Rivers Manager David Aires said.

    “It’s crucial stopbanks can do the job they are designed to do.”

    Stock access weakens stopbanks

    Animals can make ruts in the stopbank, particularly when it’s wet, or reduce grass cover through overgrazing. This creates weak spots that allow water to enter the stopbank, which may lead to the complete failure of the asset. 

    While we do permit some light grazing of sheep on stopbanks and adjacent land when conditions are suitable, we encourage landowners to keep their stopbanks free of all stock for the remainder of winter or when conditions are wet, and to let us know of any damage, so we can rectify. 

    “We appreciate that most farmers and lifestyle block owners are aware of their responsibilities when it comes to protecting our stopbanks and are doing the right thing,” David said. 

    “We want to ensure we get the message out to the few that are allowing this damage to occur so we can protect these vital community assets moving forward.” 

    What to do if you see damaged stopbanks

    Stopbanks are one of the most important tools in Environment Canterbury’s flood protection toolkit, and we manage and maintain over 600 kilometres of them across the region.

    No matter how well they are constructed and maintained, they are only as strong as the weakest link and vulnerable to damage from numerous sources. Landowners can be held responsible for damage and asked to pay for repairs under the Flood Protection and Drainage Bylaw.

    “These stopbanks not only protect property and production worth billions of dollars but also ensure the safety of thousands of people,” David said.

    If you see a damaged stopbank, please report it to us as soon as possible. You can call our customer advisory team on

    0800 324 636 or email floodbylaw@ecan.govt.nz

    Learn more about flood protection

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Renewable Energy – On-farm solar boost a welcome development – Federated Farmers

    Source: Federated Farmers

    Government moves to help farmers more easily access independent solar power and battery technology advice and finance are a positive step, Federated Farmers energy spokesperson Mark Hooper says.
    Energy Minister Simon Watts announced at the Federated Farmers Advocacy Hub at Fieldays this afternoon a package of measures designed to boost use of solar power on New Zealand’s farms.
    “Early modelling tells us that if 30% of Kiwi farms installed larger solar power systems – of the size we see on some farms already – they could generate as much as 10% of New Zealand’s current electricity demand,” Minister Watts said.
    Hooper agrees that sort of uptake would be a massive win for security of energy supply and self-sufficiency on farm – including when rural areas are hit by grid outages.
    “The roofs of wool and dairy sheds can be a great platform for solar panels. Small- and medium-scale installations can provide a great boost for farm businesses.
    “Electricity costs are not a major component of most farms’ expenses, unless they have irrigation, but as solar panel and battery technology improves and costs fall, farmer interest in this option will only increase.
    “Installing solar systems for self-sufficiency across our farms is certainly preferable to productive farmland being swallowed up, or compromised, by enormous solar farms.”
    The Government package includes real life energy data for different types of farms, feasibility studies and technology demonstrations, and a partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Finance to accelerate access to finance, making it quicker, simpler and easier.
    Hooper says the value of independent advice, and the chance to see and question how solar and battery technologies are already working on farms, shouldn’t be over-estimated.
    “For some farmers thinking about the solar option, the only contact they currently have is with the company trying to sell them something.”
    An important part of the package is access to advice on progressing consents and applications with local and regional bodies and electricity distribution businesses.
    “Being able to supply excess power generated from on-farm solar back into the local grid, and to earn revenue, is a factor that could well get more farm owners across the line.
    “Any help from the Government to ease those negotiations with electricity distribution businesses would be very welcome,” Hooper says. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Former Congress staffer allowed to return to Kanaky New Caledonia

    By Patrick Decloitre, RNZ Pacific correspondent French Pacific desk

    One of seven people transferred to mainland France almost a year ago, following the May 2024 riots in New Caledonia, has been allowed to return home, a French court has ruled.

    Frédérique Muliava, a former Congress staffer, was part of a group of six who were charged in relation to the riots.

    Under her new judicial requirements, set out by the judge in charge of the case, Muliava, once she returns to New Caledonia, is allowed to return to work, but must not make any contact with other individuals related to her case and not take part in any public demonstration.

    Four days after their arrest in Nouméa in June 2024, Muliava and six others were transferred to mainland France aboard a chartered plane.

    They were charged with criminal-related offences (including being a party or being accomplice to murder attempts and thefts involving the use of weapons) and have since been remanded in several prisons across France pending their trial.

    In January 2025, the whole case was removed from the jurisdiction of New Caledonia-based judges and has since been transferred back to investigating judges in mainland France.

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Solar on Farms: Unlocking farm cost savings

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Energy Minister Simon Watts has announced the Government’s new Solar on Farms initiative, which will support farmers in taking the next step towards installing solar and battery systems, helping them reduce energy costs, increase on-farm resilience, and allow farmers to gain greater control over their power use, leading to increased efficiency and productivity.

    The Solar on Farms package includes:

    • Independent and practical tools and advice to assist farmers
    • A dedicated help function to guide farmers through the opportunities
    • Feasibility studies and technology demonstrations tailored to various farm types
    • Real-life energy data for different farm types, showing how solar energy works in practice
    • Independent advice on progressing consents and applications with local and regional bodies and Electricity Distribution Businesses
    • A partnership with the Centre for Sustainable Finance to accelerate access to finance, making it quicker, simpler and easier.

    “Kiwi farmers have a long history of adapting, problem-solving and finding ways to be smart with land and resources. Real progress comes from the ground up, from people who understand the land, the seasons, and how to run a business,” Mr Watts says.

    “That’s why we want to give farmers more choices and the ability to unlock the cost savings that come with on-farm solar, batteries, and flexible energy systems. However, to achieve this, farmers require the correct information, evidence, tools, and trusted advice.

    “That’s where Solar on Farms comes in. It’s a practical support package that helps farmers determine if solar and battery systems are right for them by working with them to navigate the details of installing and leveraging this technology for their businesses. The package provides farmers with direct access to independent advice. It offers solutions tailored to various farm types and energy profiles.

    “Farms across New Zealand, especially those using irrigation and other energy-intensive systems, are facing increasingly high and unpredictable energy costs. This adds real pressure to already tight margins. 

    “On-farm solar and batteries can help reduce that pressure by improving self-sufficiency and lowering exposure to rising energy prices, especially in rural and remote areas. Generating electricity on-farm also creates opportunities to receive revenue from solar electricity back to the grid.

    “Early modelling tells us that if 30 per cent of Kiwi farms installed larger systems – of the size we see on some farms already – they could generate as much as 10 per cent of New Zealand’s current electricity demand. This is a real win for the security of our energy supply.”

    EECA is leading the delivery of Solar on Farms in collaboration with farmers, sector bodies, and technical experts, and the package of initiatives will be available soon.

    Fieldays 2025 also celebrated the launch of Farmlands Flex, a complementary solar on farms product from Farmlands and energy innovator Blackcurrent, with the support of Ara Ake, New Zealand’s energy innovation centre. The product combines solar, batteries and smart software in a fully managed system that enables users to generate, store and manage their energy on-site.

    “The Farmlands Flex product includes equipment, flexible demand management software, and takes care of the installation and application processes on behalf of the farmer,” says Mr Watts. 

    “It is an excellent demonstration of how solar purchasing and installation can be made more efficient.”

    Mr Watts also welcomed ASB’s recent announcement of a new 0 percent solar loan aimed at helping farmers secure long-term energy resilience and cost savings.

    “I look forward to seeing how products like Farmlands Flex, the ASB SMART solar loan, and our Solar on Farms initiative help set the farming sector up for long-term success.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Media advisory: Search for missing Christchurch woman

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Media are advised that Police will hold a stand-up this afternoon regarding the ongoing search for missing Christchurch woman Elisabeth Nicholls.

    Detective Sergeant Lucy Aldridge will speak to media at 2.30pm in central Christchurch.

    We ask those media interested in attending to RSVP to media@police.govt.nz. Further details will be provided to registered media. 

    ENDS

    Issued by the Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Māori tamariki and rangatahi in the Oranga Tamariki System are still being failed

    Source: State Care survivor and advocate, Ihorangi Reweti Peters

    The outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi Māori and their whānau in the Oranga Tamariki system report, found that tamariki and rangatahi Māori and their whānau are still over-represented and drastically let down within the system.

    The first report on the performance of the Oranga Tamariki system for Māori was published today by Aroturuki Tamariki the Independent Children’s Monitor. State Care survivor and advocate, Ihorangi Reweti Peters, who grew up in the Oranga Tamariki system, says this report shines a light on the performance of the Oranga Tamariki system and that Māori tamariki and rangatahi are still being failed by the very system that is supposed to be caring for them.

    “The Independent Children’s Monitor found that Oranga Tamariki and NZ Police have strategies in place to address inequality and over-representation but there are barriers to making progress. It is crucial that both Oranga Tamariki and the New Zealand Police invest in adequate partnerships with Iwi, Māori and community initiatives that support tamariki and rangatahi Māori that are in care of Oranga Tamariki and with care experience,” Mr Reweti Peters says.

    “These partnerships need to be increased so that our whānau, tamariki and rangatahi Māori have a safe and reliable organisation to raise concerns with. Oranga Tamariki is known to have multiple partnerships, sometimes these partnerships are not the best.

    “The report also found that Oranga Tamariki is not always taking action to respond to reports of concern at the earliest opportunity. They found that almost half of the reports of concerns, resulted in a decision to take no further action. The reporting period 2023/24 showed that 52% of the reports of concerns received by Oranga Tamariki were for tamariki and rangatahi who identified as Māori.

    “Early intervention is key to responding to reports of concern and supporting these whānau and making sure that our tamariki and rangatahi Māori remain out of Oranga Tamariki care. Ngā Maata Waka and Oranga Tamariki were working in partnership to provide community-led initiatives that responds to reports of concern. This successful initiative no longer operates due to a lack of funding and the roll-out of a new National Contact Centre localised response.

    “This initiative was crucial for Māori whānau as it was a by Māori for Māori approach – where tamariki, rangatahi and whānau can engage in the ways that they want to respond to the report of concern. If this service is not reinstated our whānau will continue to fall through the cracks and not receive the right support that they are entitled too.“I welcome the report today by the Independent Children’s Monitor and I hope that Oranga Tamariki, in the interim, will improve the outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi Māori. However, Oranga Tamariki is still in no place to care for some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most vulnerable children and young people. I echo the calls from survivors, academics and whānau, that Oranga Tamariki needs to be dismantled and Iwi, Hāpū and Whānau need to take over the provisions of caring for our tamariki and rangatahi,” says Mr Reweti Peters.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Report on outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi Māori in the oranga tamariki system – a story of consequence

    Source: Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor

    In the first of a new annual report series – Outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi Māori and their whānau in the oranga tamariki system – Aroturuki Tamariki | Independent Children’s Monitor found tamariki (children) and rangatahi (young people) Māori and their whānau are over-represented in the oranga tamariki system and the system is letting them down. While Oranga Tamariki has a pivotal role, the system includes NZ Police and the Ministries of Health, Education and Social Development.

    Most tamariki and rangatahi Māori have no involvement in the oranga tamariki system. But when they do, there are increasing levels of over-representation – almost 50 percent of reports of concern made to Oranga Tamariki are about tamariki and rangatahi Māori, they make up two-thirds of those in care, and more than three quarters of those in youth justice custody.

    Aroturuki Tamariki Chief Executive Arran Jones says the report is a story of consequence – of needs not addressed by a system that is not always able to work together to get the right support in place at the right time. “The needs of tamariki and rangatahi then multiply as they escalate through the system,” Mr Jones said.

    Data shows 92 percent of rangatahi referred to a youth justice family group conference in 2023/24 had concerns raised about their safety and wellbeing when they were younger.

    “Tamariki and rangatahi come to the attention of Oranga Tamariki because someone has raised concerns about alleged abuse, or their wellbeing. This is the moment to get the right services and supports in place so tamariki and rangatahi don’t escalate through the system,” says Mr Jones

    Escalation through the system can eventually mean involvement with the Police – and Police data shows a difference in the severity of proceedings against tamariki and rangatahi Māori in 2023/24:

    tamariki Māori aged 10–13 are less likely to be referred to alternative action or given a warning and more likely to be prosecuted or referred to a youth justice FGC than others
    rangatahi Māori aged 14–17 are less likely to get a warning or be referred to alternative action and more likely to be prosecuted than others.

     

    The outcomes for tamariki and rangatahi Māori currently involved with the oranga tamariki system are less positive than those for Māori with no involvement. In 2022, tamariki and rangatahi Māori:

    in care or custody, achieved education qualifications at almost half the rate of Māori with no involvement
    in the oranga tamariki system, were significantly more likely to be hospitalised for self-harm than those with no involvement
    in care, used mental health and addiction services at nearly five times the rate of Māori with no involvement. Rangatahi Māori in youth justice custody used these at 15 times the rate – 60 percent of rangatahi Māori in youth justice custody used mental health and addiction services. Considering 92 percent of these rangatahi had reports of concern made about their safety and wellbeing when they were younger, this is no surprise.

     

    “The outcomes for young Māori adults, aged 27–30, who were involved in the oranga tamariki system as children are sobering. The data paints a stark picture of the consequence of the oranga tamariki system not doing more to help. Māori adults who had been in the system as children are less likely to be employed, less likely to have a driver licence, more likely to be on a benefit, more likely to be in emergency housing, and more likely to be hospitalised for self-harm than Māori who had no involvement. Mortality rates are double or triple those of Māori with no involvement in the oranga tamariki system for vehicle accidents and for self-harm (including suicide),” says Mr Jones.

    The report also identifies the importance of breaking the cycle. For Māori parents (aged 27–30 years) who had previously been in care themselves, 68 percent have children involved with Oranga Tamariki in some way and one in eight have had one or more children in care at some point.

    “This report highlights initiatives and ways of working that provide a pathway ahead for all government agencies. Working with tamariki and rangatahi alongside their whānau, building trusted long-term relationships, looking outside of organisational silos to understand their wider needs and providing services across government and community agencies. To paraphrase one of the providers we heard from, this is where the magic happens,” says Mr Jones.

    The initiatives highlighted in the report include a statutory youth justice delegation from Oranga Tamariki to Whakapai Hauora by Rangitāne o Manawatū. Whakapai Hauora provides wraparound support to rangatahi Māori who have offended, reporting only one referral proceeding to a court order. Some rangatahi who have completed programmes have returned as mentors and one rangatahi is now employed by the retailer he offended against.

    In Auckland, Kotahi te Whakaaro, brings together government and non-government organisations. It works alongside whānau to support tamariki and rangatahi who have offended, to prevent further offending. They look across housing, schooling, health and financial challenges and put supports in place. We heard about significant reductions in reoffending, with one rangatahi telling us “I think stealing is just an idiot move now”.

    In Porirua, Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira has built a strong relationship with Oranga Tamariki. They reported that a combination of early intervention initiatives for whānau who come to the attention of Oranga Tamariki has resulted in a 21 percent reduction in renotifications (reports of concern) – to the lowest rate in Porirua in four years.

    “Before tamariki and rangatahi come to the attention of Oranga Tamariki they will have been seen by education and health staff and the parents may be known to social housing and welfare. It should not take offending, or an incident of abuse or neglect to get the support that was always needed,” says Mr Jones.

    For this report, we looked at the performance under the Oranga Tamariki Act – this Act places specific obligations on Police and Oranga Tamariki. It is clear there are opportunities to do better and this report highlights some of those.

    “Data shows that tamariki and rangatahi Māori in the system today have similar hopes and aspirations for their future as those not in system. As one rangatahi we met with told us they’d ‘just like to grow up successful and, if I find the right person, to give my kids what I couldn’t have’,” Mr Jones said.

    Read the report on our website https://aroturuki.govt.nz/reports/outcomes-23-24

    Aroturuki Tamariki – the Independent Children’s Monitor checks that organisations supporting and working with tamariki, rangatahi and their whānau, are meeting their needs, delivering services effectively, and improving outcomes. We monitor compliance with the Oranga Tamariki Act and the associated regulations, including the National Care Standards. We also look at how the wider system (such as early intervention) is supporting tamariki and rangatahi under the Oversight of Oranga Tamariki System Act. Aroturuki Tamariki works closely with its partners in the oversight system, Mana Mokopuna – Children and Young People’s Commission, and the Office of the Ombudsman.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘Gutting the Ponsonby community’: Locals say post office should stay open

    By Aisha Campbell, RNZ News intern

    Ponsonby’s post office is shutting shop next month despite push back from the local community.

    A sign on the storefront, which is at the College Hill end of Ponsonby Road, said the closure would take place on 4 July but the post boxes would be “staying put”.

    Ponsonby local and author John Harris said New Zealand Post’s decision to close the store was “ill-considered” and it should “try harder” to cater for the people who use the shop’s services.

    “They’ve got to be mindful of the vital role that post shops like this one play in glueing the community together,” Harris said.

    “If you go down to the post shop you’ll see it’s buzzing with activity; people popping in to post parcels or to get forms filled out and so forth . . .  they’ve got to think about the effect on small communities and this is like gutting the Ponsonby community.”

    Viv Rosenberg, a spokesperson for the Ponsonby Business Association, said the group is saddened by the decision to close the shop.

    ”Our local post office has been part of the fabric of our community in Three Lamps for several years and we regard the team there as part of our Ponsonby family. We are working alongside others to try and keep it open.”

    Plan but no timeframe
    In 2018, NZ Post announced its plan to close its remaining 79 standalone post offices but did not give a timeframe on when the final store would be shut.

    NZ Post general manager consumer Sarah Sandoval said customer data and service patterns were analysed to determine where NZ Post services were best placed.

    “The Ponsonby area is well serviced by existing postal outlets, and to remove duplications of services, we’ve decided to make this change.”

    The Asia Pacific Report story about the impending Ponsonby post office shop closure published earlier this month. Image: Asia Pacific Report

    She also said that there were nearby options available, including on Hardinge Street 1.4km away, and NZ Post Herne Bay, 1km away.

    The NZ Post website said “store closures are given very careful consideration”.

    “[Reasons for closure] can include a decline in customer numbers or services which significantly affect the economic viability of the store,” NZ Post said.

    Harris emailed NZ Post CEO David Walsh expressing his disapproval of the decision to close the shop and requesting it be reconsidered.

    He said a response by the NZ Post general manager consumer stated the closure followed a close look at customer data and that there were other stores serving the Ponsonby community, which was an unsustainable way for the business to operate.

    “Herne Bay, Hardinge Street and Wellesley Street are either a challenging walk or you hop in the car and add to the grid,” Harris said.

    “They’re only thinking about the sustainability of the New Zealand Post itself not the community.”

    This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Zealand Grass-Fed certification to take on global competitors

    Source: New Zealand Government

    New Zealand is raising its game on the global stage with a new Grass-Fed certification scheme to help our red meat and dairy producers go head-to-head with competitors in premium international markets, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced today at Fieldays.
    “International consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for high-quality grass-fed food—and New Zealand intends to lead that space, not follow it,” Mr McClay says.
    “This new standard puts a clear, trusted stamp on what our farmers have always done best—producing high-quality, safe pasture-raised meat and dairy.”
    The voluntary scheme, developed in partnership between the Primary Sector and the Ministry for Primary Industries, sets a clear definition for grass-fed products. Producers who meet the standard can be assessed and display the trusted Grass-Fed certification on their products and market them to the world.
    “In key markets, we’re up against countries that claim grass-fed credentials but feed their animals grain part of the year or keep them indoors for long periods. New Zealand’s system is different—our livestock on grass, year-round, in the world’s best farming conditions.”
    The standard for dairy defines grass-fed as meaning animals have a diet comprised of at least 90 percent of the qualifying grass-fed feed types and are on pasture or forage crops, 340 days per year. 
    For red meat, the animals must be predominantly fed grass-fed feed types and be permitted to graze outdoors on pasture or forage crops year-round.
    “This is about more than a label—it’s a commercial tool to push into premium segments and stay ahead of competitors. We’re relentlessly focused on improving the value of our exports and backing farmers,” Mr McClay says.
    “This is another step in making New Zealand farming the global benchmark for high-quality, safe, sustainable production—and ensuring our exporters have every advantage in the fight for premium shelf space.”
    More information and assessment details are available on the MPI website.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Zero Waste – Petition launched as Inquiry looms

    Source: Zero Waste Network

    On the eve of a major Board of Inquiry that will assess if a large-scale rubbish incinerator proposed for Te Awamutu can go ahead, the Zero Waste Network and allies are launching a new petition to keep the country incinerator-free.

    “We want central government to ban new waste incinerators at a national level because of the serious human health, climate and air pollution impacts. The proposal in Te Awamutu would emit toxins like dioxin and heavy metals which are likely to result in premature deaths, infertility, increased rates of cancer and birth defects. There is no safe level of exposure to dioxin,” said Sue Coutts, spokesperson for the Network.

    “We know that burning carbon-intensive wastes like plastics emit more greenhouse gases and pollutants than coal. The Te Awamutu proposal was cited by the EPA as having global climate implications.”

    “Right now, small communities, often in provincial or rural areas, are being targeted by these incinerator companies. These communities are bearing the burden of stopping these toxic projects. This is why central government leadership is so important.”

    “Environment Minister Penny Simmonds rightly called in the Te Awamutu proposal for consideration by a Board of Inquiry. This will allow a more thorough assessment of impacts than had it been considered at local government level. However, this process does not stop other projects from coming forward.”

    “To get a sense of the aggressiveness of the industry, there were three projects that sought to be included under the Fast Track Approvals regime: this Te Awamutu project, one in Tolaga Bay on the East Cape, and a very large incinerator in Waimate. Only one of those projects, in Waimate, was ultimately included in the legislation’s initial listing, but is now unable to proceed because the land deal fell apart.”

    “For the past five years, the Zero Waste Network and our allies have successfully resisted new incinerators on the front lines. We are now taking the fight to Parliament to deliver a lasting solution. Let’s keep Aotearoa incinerator free!”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ and Gaza – Peters appearing to do something, when doing nothing

    COMMENTARY: By Steven Cowan, editor of Against The Current

    The New Zealand Foreign Minster’s decision to issue a travel ban against two Israeli far-right politicians is little more than a tokenistic gesture in opposing Israel’s actions.

    It is an attempt to appease growing opposition to Israel’s war, but the fact that Israel has killed more than 54,000 innocent people in Gaza, a third under the age of 18, still leaves the New Zealand government unmoved.

    Foreign Minister Peters gave the game away when he commented that the sanctions were targeted towards two individuals, rather than the Israeli government.

    Issuing travel bans against two Israeli politicians, who are unlikely to visit New Zealand at any stage, is the easy option.

    It appears to be doing something to protest against Israel’s actions when actually doing nothing. And it doesn’t contradict the interests of the United States in the Middle East.

    Under the government of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, New Zealand has become a vassal state of American imperialism.

    New Zealand has joined four other countries, the United States, Britain, Australia and Norway, in issuing a travel ban. But all four countries continue to supply Israel with arms.

    Unions demand stronger action
    Last week, the New Zealand Council of Trade Unions demanded that the New Zealand government take stronger action against Israel. In a letter to Winston Peters, CTU president Richard Wagstaff wrote:

    “For too long, the international community has allowed the state of Israel to act with impunity. It is now very clearly engaged in genocide and ethnic cleansing in Gaza.

    “All efforts must be made to put diplomatic and economic pressure on Israel to end this murderous campaign.”

    THE CTU has called for a series of sanctions to be imposed on Israel. They include “a ban on all imports of goods made in whole or in part in Israel” and “a rapid review of Crown investments and immediately divest from any financial interests in Israeli companies”.

    The CTU is also calling for the expulsion of the Israeli ambassador.

    This article was first published on Steven Cowan’s website Against The Current. Republished with permission.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Sweet Police work aids Auckland driver

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Quick thinking and a priority transport of chocolate has aided the recovery of an Auckland motorist. 

    Police in central Auckland received information about a man who appeared intoxicated, getting into a vehicle on Tuesday afternoon.

    Auckland Central Area Commander, Inspector Grant Tetzlaff says frontline staff attended just after 3pm on Union Street.

    “On arrival, staff found a middle-aged man slumped over the car’s steering wheel and losing consciousness,” he says.

    “The officers acted quickly on their feet, taking the initiative and checked for a medical alert on the man’s phone.”

    It revealed he was a Type One diabetic.

    “Wasting no time and with time of the essence,  the staff called for an ambulance and for another patrol to bring some chocolate, pronto!”

    “The chocolate arrived on scene quickly and the man began to regain some consciousness.”

    Ambulance staff arrived on scene and he was transported to hospital.

    “I commend the actions of the frontline staff in what was a medical emergency and ended up being a sweet result,” Inspector Tetzlaff says.

    ENDS. 

    Nicole Bremner/NZ Police 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Innovative pasture project to drive farmgate returns

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is backing a $17 million partnership with farmers to boost productivity, profitability, and sustainability by identifying the most resilient, high-performing pastures for New Zealand conditions, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay announced today at Fieldays. 
    Minister McClay confirmed the Government will invest $8.269 million in the Resilient Pastures project through Budget 2025’s new Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF), alongside sector leaders including DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb New Zealand, Fonterra, AgResearch, and others.
    “This is a smart investment that will deliver real outcomes for farmers — increasing pasture performance, extending productive lifespan, cutting re-grassing costs, and improving profitability across the board,” McClay said.
    “New Zealand farmers produce high-quality, safe, and sustainable food and fibre that is in demand around the world. Projects like this help us stay at the front of the pack —making it easier to farm productively and drive farm gate profitably.’
    The project will focus on the upper North Island, where pasture productivity has been challenging. Research and trials will develop region-specific pasture mixes and on-farm practices that respond to changing conditions, with farmers involved every step of the way.
    “This is about innovation that delivers at the farmgate. By partnering with farmers and agri-leaders, we’re backing practical solutions that drive growth and reduce red tape,” McClay says.
    Today’s announcement builds on the Government’s wider support for the sector, including:

    Over $400 million invested to accelerate emissions-reduction tools through AgriZeroNZ and NZAGRC;
    New technologies for nutrients, genetics, and pasture resilience already underway through PSGF;
    Ongoing work to remove outdated regulations and simplify compliance.

    “Our message is clear: this Government backs farmers. We’re here to grow value, not bureaucracy.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Radiology backlog cleared at Taranaki Base Hospital

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Health Minister Simeon Brown has welcomed the clearance of a significant radiology backlog at Taranaki Base Hospital, calling it a practical outcome that puts patients first.

    “In March, more than 6,000 x-ray reports were sitting unprocessed at Taranaki Base Hospital. That was causing unacceptable delays for patients needing diagnosis and treatment,” Mr Brown says.

    “People in Taranaki deserve access to timely, high-quality healthcare – and that includes getting diagnostic results back quickly. With the backlog now cleared and all results referred back to GPs, patients are now receiving their results.”

    To address the backlog, Health New Zealand made full use of available public radiology resources and engaged private imaging providers to boost reporting capacity and return results directly to patients’ GPs.

    “This was a practical, solutions-focused response. By combining public capacity with private sector support, the backlog was cleared efficiently, and care has been sped up for thousands of people.”

    Outsourcing remains in place to manage ongoing demand and reduce the risk of future backlogs.

    “Taranaki Base Hospital will continue to use private capacity where needed – an approach that is consistent with the Government’s broader strategy to reduce waitlists across the health system.

    “Our focus on reducing waitlists has already resulted in more than 8,600 additional elective procedures being delivered through outsourcing. It’s a clear example of how we can apply the same approach to diagnostics – using targeted outsourcing to deliver faster care.

    “We are committed to practical improvements that reduce delays, support frontline services, and deliver better outcomes for patients.

    “This result in Taranaki shows what can be achieved when we stay focused on what matters – making sure New Zealanders get the care they need, when they need it,” Mr Brown says. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – Holding a mirror up to the mental health and addiction system

    Source: Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission

    “Our new system performance monitoring report highlights the need for faster improvements to address declining mental health and wellbeing,” said Karen Orsborn, CEO of Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission.
    The System Performance Monitoring Report released today by Te Hiringa Mahara outlines progress toward improving mental health and wellbeing outcomes for New Zealanders and shows the need to speed up much needed improvements across the system.
    “Efforts to improve the system over the past six years have shown some early positive movement however these changes are not yet extensive enough to drive improvement at the scale and pace we need,” said Karen Orsborn.
    “It has been 7 years since the landmark He Ara Oranga report in 2018. Our report shows that while there are pockets of positive change, the system has got a significant way to go to achieve the outcomes people expect.”
    “Peer support services for example have seen an increase since 2018 with greater investment in the peer and lived experience workforce. There has also been an increase in kaupapa Māori specialist mental health and addiction services since 2018, but this has yet to reach representation of Māori accessing specialist services overall”.
    “There have been gains, with significant improvements to access for people seeking mental health and addiction support through a GP or other primary care services, however we are very concerned about the continued downward trend in the number of people being seen by specialist mental health and addiction services over the last few years”.
    “There continues to be significant unmet need for professional help for mental health among young people, Māori, Pacific peoples and disabled adults.”
    “As the independent monitor of mental health and wellbeing we have provided a shared view of what a good mental health and addiction system looks like. The system shifts that are needed to achieve the vision of He Ara Oranga are clear”.
    “This will rely on having meaningful lived experience leadership, services meeting the highest needs, respect for human rights, along with achieving both equitable access and outcomes from services to name a few”.
    “What we need to see is improvement toward these shifts across the whole system. We are calling for an acceleration of collective efforts with the whole sector working towards the same

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Health – No pregnancy warning labels on alcohol

    Source: Alcohol Healthwatch

    – 34% of alcohol products have no pregnancy warning label, shows new report.
    – 16% of alcohol products with the correct label have it hidden on the bottom of the packaging where it is less likely to be seen.
    Every baby deserves the best possible start in life. But new report by Alcohol Healthwatch of New Zealand’s first audit of pregnancy warning labels on alcohol products, suggests that the low presence of correct labelling might be undermining this.
    The report has some worrying findings, chief among them that over a third of alcohol products still do not have the correct pregnancy warning label. Just under half (44%) of the 400+ products audited either had no label, or had the label hidden on the bottom of the packaging.
    The Government-mandated pregnancy warning label became compulsory from August 2023, following over twenty-years of advocacy by public health professionals and communities. Pregnancy warning labels are an important tool to share the information that no amount of alcohol is safe to consume when pregnant. Exposure of alcohol in-utero can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), a lifelong disability characterised by cognitive, emotional, and functional deficits. FASD comprises over half of the estimated $9.1 billion dollars in alcohol harm felt in New Zealand annually.
    “Communities have been fighting for a pregnancy warning label for twenty years,” says Sarah Sneyd, lead study author and Senior Health Promotion Advisor at Alcohol Healthwatch. “People tell us all the time that if they pick up a bottle of wine, they expect that it will have the pregnancy warning label on it. But what we’ve found is that even a year after being mandatory, there’s a good chance it won’t have the message.”
    Spirits was the least likely to have the pregnancy warning label on it, with only 48% of spirits audited showing the warning label. This is likely due to its longer shelf life, as the law only states that alcohol manufactured from 31 July 2023 is required to have a warning label, not all alcohol sold. Wine was the next least likely to show the label, with only 57% showing the warning label.
    “Spirits are some of the strongest alcohol you can buy, and wine is very popular among women,” says Sneyd. “And they’re the least likely to show a pregnancy warning label! It’s just not good enough – this is a massive loophole that needs to be closed.”
    There is no requirement for any other health or warning label on alcohol products, such as the fact that it causes cancer. Furthermore, unlike almost every other consumable food or drink item, alcohol products (apart from RTDs) do not have to provide an ingredient list. Like Big Tobacco tactics, Big Alcohol has an incentive to delay or sidestep labelling requirements for as long as possible, to protect profit margins at the expense of health.
    However, the audit revealed much higher rates of industry-designed labels, with 78% of products having an industry-designed label, including urges to “drink responsibly”. Often this messaging was located next to or near the pregnancy warning label, and may confuse viewers. This highlights the urgent need for a range of rotating health warnings to meet consumer rights for information. These labels must be prominent (i.e. not located at the bottom of packaging).
    Sneyd believes that in order for consumers to make informed decisions, they need the information. “We’re talking about preventing babies being born with brain damage; it goes without saying that this is an important message. If we can get communities the information they are entitled to, then we’re one step closer towards every baby having the best possible start in life.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Saying yes to more housing

    Source: New Zealand Government

    City-shaping changes are coming to New Zealand’s largest city, ensuring that Auckland can fully harness the economic growth benefits of the new City Rail Link, RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop and Auckland Minister Simeon Brown say.
    The Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill (the Bill) has been reported back to Parliament today by the Environment Committee, containing significant changes to enable housing growth in our largest cities.
    “After many months, Auckland Council and the Government have reached agreement to free up more land for housing, particularly around City Rail Link (CRL) stations. These are some of the most significant changes to the shape of Auckland since the Auckland Unitary Plan,” Mr Bishop says.
    “It doesn’t make sense that we have single story houses on quarter acre sections a stone’s throw away from stations that, in a year or so, will see trains every few minutes. 
    “The Government and the Council are investing billions in CRL and have a shared vision for stations that become hubs for public transport, mixed use development and new housing.
    “Successive Governments and Councils have failed to grasp this opportunity for economic growth in New Zealand’s largest city. This is how modern, growing cities all around the world operate, and now it’s Auckland’s turn.”
    “Today’s announcements are a result of Auckland Council and the Government working together to deliver a plan for more housing that works for Auckland.  The Bill now has the effect of abolishing the Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) in Auckland while requiring more housing density around key public transport corridors – a common sense solution for Auckland,” Auckland Minister Simeon Brown says.
    “Auckland must grow to fully meet its potential as a world-leading city. The one sized-fits-all approach of the MDRS was not appropriate for Auckland. Today’s announcement will ensure our city grows where it makes the most sense and maximise on the significant investment made in the City Rail Link.”
    “I want to thank Auckland Council, particularly Mayor Brown and Councillor Richard Hills, for their pragmatic approach to solving these complex challenges over many months,” Mr Bishop says.
    “Mayor Brown has previously described this situation as “RMA gymnastics” and he is right, but I am confident that these arrangements align with our shared vison of density and development in places that work for Aucklanders.”   
    Removing ability to opt-out of the MDRS
    “The Bill as introduced provided councils with the flexibility to opt out of the MDRS, if they could show they had provided for 30 years of housing growth in their district and unitary plans,” Mr Bishop says.
    “Councils have been going through plan changes for years in order to incorporate the MDRS. Most councils have already substantially completed their plan changes through this process, with just three (Auckland, Christchurch and Waimakariri) yet to finish.
    “Th practical reality is that if councils did vote to “opt out” of the MDRS, they would have to pass a new plan change to do so, and due to the length of time this typically takes under the RMA, by the time this was complete, the Government’s new planning system is expected to be in place.
    “Fundamentally, it would have achieved nothing, but cost ratepayers a lot. “The Government has therefore taken the pragmatic view that it would be sensible to remove the ability for councils to opt out of the MDRS and to work on bespoke legislative solutions for Auckland and Christchurch instead.”
    New plan change for Auckland 
    “Auckland’s intensification plan change, PC78, has been underway since 2022. Progress has been slow for many reasons, including the Auckland floods. The intensification plan change process does not allow Auckland to “downzone” certain areas due to natural hazard risk – only to “upzone” them – and the Council wrote to the government asking them to fix this problem,” Mr Bishop says.
    “The Government has therefore agreed to change the Bill to allow Auckland to withdraw PC78. However, the government is determined to unlock housing capacity in Auckland and fix our housing crisis and has taken steps to ensure this is achieved.
    “Earlier in the year I directed Auckland Council to bring forward decisions on the parts of PC78 that relate to the city centre, requiring final decisions to be made by the end of May. Auckland Council met this requirement, finalising this part of PC78 on 22 May 2025. 
    “These decisions made by the council are a step forward in increasing development capacity in Auckland’s CBD, but there is more work to be done.
    “The Bill as reported back from the committee now allows Auckland Council to remove the remaining parts of PC78, but requires them to process a new plan change urgently. This plan change must be notified by 10 October this year, and must enable housing capacity equal to or greater than that enabled by PC78.
    “As I’ve indicated, the Government is keen to see greater density around public transport, particularly City Rail Link stations. The Bill therefore now also requires Auckland to allow for greater density around the key CRL stations of Maungawhau (Mount Eden), Kingsland, and Morningside.
    “Auckland Council must enable within a walkable distance from these stations heights and densities reflective of the higher demand for housing and business in these areas. This requirement goes further than the existing requirements under the NPS-UD, and I expect heights and densities that ensure we make the most of the opportunities offered by this transformational transport project.
    “The government is also considering whether further amendments to the Bill to fully maximise development opportunities around other CRL stations as necessary, and I will have more to say in due course.”
    30 years of growth for Christchurch 
    “Christchurch City Council also requires a bespoke solution, as they have made a number of decisions on their plan change to implement the MDRS and NPS-UD, known as PC14, but have yet to complete it,” Mr Bishop says. 
    “Last week I released my decisions on the recommendations from the Council on parts of PC14. These decisions will enable a greater level of development in and around Christchurch City’s urban centres.
    “Christchurch City Council is currently required to finalise the MDRS components of PC14 by December 2025. The Bill will allow Christchurch to withdraw the MDRS parts of PC14 provided they allow for 30 years of housing growth at the same time. Assessment of that target will be made by me based on advice from officials.”
    Additional changes 
    “In addition to these changes, the Environment Select Committee has recommended a suite of changes to improve the workability of the Bill and help unlock growth in infrastructure and energy, farming and the primary sector,” Mr Bishop says.
    The Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill will have its second reading in the coming weeks and is expected to pass into law in mid-2025.”
    Note to Editors: 
    Waimakariri District Council were much further progressed in their plan change than Auckland and Christchurch, and are expected to make decisions on their plan change on 30 June, before the Bill’s expected third reading.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –