Source: Press Release Service
Headline: Voting Opens for 2025 New Zealand Tree of the Year
Tree of the Year NZ 2025 launches this week, inviting the public to vote for their favourite from a shortlist of six remarkable trees across the country. 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 post Voting Opens for 2025 New Zealand Tree of the Year first appeared on PR.co.nz.
Source: New Zealand Police
The plans of five alleged car thieves have been busted by Rangiora Police.
The quintet were apprehended about 2am on Wednesday 4 June, two cars of interest were tracked to Pegasus, north of Christchurch. The vehicles had been stolen earlier in the night, one from Bishopdale and the other from St Albans.
With only one way out of Pegasus, Police laid spikes and waited until the alleged offenders drove over them, Senior Sergeant Stephen McDaniel said.
“They’ve kept driving for a short distance, but the spikes did their job and both cars eventually came to a stop.”
Police apprehended the boys and young men without further incident, but Police discovered another vehicle had been interfered with.
“At Pegasus, we’ve established there was an attempt to steal a third vehicle, but all they’ve done is break a window and make a mess of the ignition – and sadly, that’s a headache for yet another car owner.”
The five are aged between 13 and 23, Senior Sergeant McDaniel said.
The 13-year-old has been referred to Youth Services, while the other four are scheduled to appear in the Christchurch District Court and Christchurch Youth Court on charges including unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, attempting to unlawfully take a motor vehicle, unlawful possession of an air rifle, and failing to stop for Police.
“We know car theft is an ongoing problem and urge vehicle owners to purchase immobilisers or steering wheel locks if they have to park on the street.
“Even with attempted car theft, it’s more than an inconvenience, because offenders can cause a lot of damage to the ignition when they’re attempting to start the car. This offending has a real impact on real people’s lives, and we need the community’s help to prevent it.
“If you see suspicious activity, such as people casing out vehicles, the best thing you can do is call 111 immediately.”
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
As Men’s Health Week (9–15 June) approaches, ExerciseNZ is calling on men across Aotearoa to rethink strength, not just in terms of muscle, but in how we care for our bodies, minds, and futures.
New global research published in European Heart Journal has raised concerns about the heart health of men who overindulge in strength-based training, especially those focused primarily on bodybuilding, often using extreme training methods or performance-enhancing substances. While the findings are serious, they also present a valuable opportunity to shine a light on a more sustainable and empowering path to health and fitness. Men’s Health Week reminds us that small, consistent steps make a big difference. ExerciseNZ CEO Richard Beddie says: “It’s not about pushing hard, it’s about being consistent, staying safe, and building strength for the right reasons.”
Why Men’s Health Week Matters
Men in Aotearoa face some sobering health statistics. A boy born today is likely to live nearly four years less than a girl born next door. He’s also 20% more likely to die from a heart attack and 30% more likely to develop diabetes. Every day, eight Kiwi families lose a loved partner, father, or family member to an illness that could have been prevented.
Even more concerning, one in four men in New Zealand won’t live to see retirement age. The picture is even more serious for Māori and Pasifika men, who experience lower life expectancy and higher rates of illness than other groups in Aotearoa.
But there is hope. Exercise is consistently recognised as one of the most effective forms of preventative medicine, often more powerful than pharmaceuticals for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and depression. Moving more isn’t just about fitness, it’s about staying alive, connected, and well.
Strength Training: A Tool for Life
Strength training is one of the most powerful tools men can use to improve both physical and mental wellbeing. It supports stronger bones, better sleep, sharper minds, and a reduced risk of disease. However, as the new research shows, extremes come with risk. You don’t need to overtrain to get results. Progress built on balance lasts longer. This Men’s Health Week, ExerciseNZ encourages men to realign their training goals using the following tips:
Train with intention: Choose sustainable movement, not just maximum effort.
Seek support: If you’re unsure, work with a registered REPs trainer or facility.
Connect to your why: Whether it’s being there for your tamariki, managing stress, or simply feeling better, know what drives you.
Connect with others: Move with whānau, join a class, or share your journey. It’s easier (and more fun) together.
Start small: Walk more. Stretch more. Move a little every day. Then build from there
Men’s Health Week is about empowering men to take charge. You don’t have to do everything, you just need to do something!
Source: Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE)
Through the first round of the Electrifying the Great Rides Fund, $478,750 in co-funding has been approved to install 10 e-bike charging stations across the Hawke’s Bay Trails and the Remutaka Cycle Trail. These stations will be located at key points along the trails, including outside popular business premises and i-SITEs, enhancing accessibility for e-bike users and encouraging longer, more enjoyable rides.
The $3 million Electrifying the Great Rides Fund was launched in 2024 to make New Zealand’s cycle trails more appealing to both domestic and international visitors.
In a move to broaden the impact of the programme, the second round of funding – opening on 1 August 2025 – will expand eligibility to include Heartland and Connector Rides. These trails form part of the wider Ngā Haerenga New Zealand Cycle Trail network and often traverse rural and remote areas. The expanded criteria will allow more communities to benefit from increased tourism and improved trail infrastructure.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is also working with sector partners to refresh the overall New Zealand Cycle Trail programme, ensuring it continues to meet the growing demand for nature-based and environmentally friendly tourism experiences.
More information about the second funding round will be available on the MBIE website from 30 June 2025. Territorial authorities and community groups supported by their local councils are encouraged to apply.
Read the Minister’s release:
E-bike upgrades for New Zealand Cycle Trails(external link) — Beehive.govt.nz
Exclusive international exhibition brings global icons to Auckland from Saturday 28 June
This month, Tāmaki Paenga Hira Auckland War Memorial Museum welcomes the spectacular international exhibition DIVA, with a new opening date announced for Saturday 28 June 2025.
Exclusive to Auckland, DIVA is a bold celebration of iconic performers who have defined eras, challenged norms and changed the world through the power of performance.
Developed by London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), DIVA showcases over 280 objects, including fashion, photography, costumes, music, and design, featuring trailblazing performers who have made their voices heard from the 19th century to today.
DIVA © Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Through theatrical staging and an immersive musical soundtrack experience, DIVA explores stories of the creativity, ambition, and resilience of some the world’s best-known divas, from opera goddesses and silent movie stars to Hollywood leg
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government is boosting economic growth in the regions by supporting Hawke’s Bay Trails and the Remutaka Cycle Trail to set up e-bike charging stations with more regions set to benefit from a second funding round, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.
“We launched the $3 million Electrifying the Great Rides Fund last year to make our cycle trails more accessible and appealing, both to international tourists and kiwis looking to explore more of their backyard,” Louise Upston says.
“They play an absolutely crucial role in attracting visitors to our regions, supporting our local businesses, jobs and communities.
“We’re pleased to be supporting investment in our Great Rides and hope more trails will take up the opportunity with the second round of funding opening shortly.”
The first round of the Electrifying the Great Rides Fund approved $478,750 of co-funding to install 10 e-bike charging stations on two Great Rides.
Hawke’s Bay Trails will install e-bike charging stations at six locations outside adjacent business premises and i-SITEs, as will the Remutaka Cycle Trail at four popular business premises along that trail.
“In the second round of funding, we’ve expanded the eligibility criteria to include not only the Great Rides but the Heartland and Connector Rides which are part of the wider Ngā Haerenga, New Zealand Cycle Trail network,” Louise Upston says.
“By opening up the criteria, we’re able to make our rural and remote trails much more accessible to visitors wanting to see more of our beautiful country.”
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment is also working with sector partners to refresh the broader New Zealand Cycle Trail programme.
“Demand for nature-based tourism experiences is only increasing – which means our cycle trails are even more important as people seek out more environmentally friendly experiences,” Louise Upston says.
“By investing in our cycle trails we are directly supporting our local tourism operators and driving economic growth in our regions.”
The second round will open on 1 August 2025 for one month. Applicants will be able to find more information on the MBIE website from 30 June 2025. Opening up the fund to Heartland and Connector Rides means that territorial authorities and community groups supported by their local council will be eligible to apply.
Source: Auckland Council
It’s not every day a TV icon and one of Aotearoa’s most loved scientist personalities turns your local park into a lab – but that’s exactly what happened when Ruud Kleinpaste, a.k.a the Bug Man, hit Kohuora Park in Papatoetoe.
Ruud is a naturalist, entomologist (a scientist who studies insects) and host of the Animal Planet series Buggin’ with Ruud.
On 2 May, over 120 students, teachers, and the Sustainable Schools team gathered at Kohuora Park for a day of discovery, connection, and environmental action, made possible with funding from Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board.
Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia says, “We need to care for and protect our public green spaces so that flora and fauna can thrive – so we don’t have to visit a zoo or head deep into the bush to experience wildlife right here in our urban areas.”
Thumbs up and all hands on deck! Photo credit: Sustainable Schools.
From kindergartens to colleges, schools across Puhinui came together in one of Papatoetoe’s best-kept secrets – Kohuora Park, a 34-million-year-old volcanic crater turned thriving wetland. Teeming with native wildlife, rich history, and cultural stories, Kohuora – meaning “mist of life”, honours the giant god Matāoho, whose footsteps shaped Tāmaki Makaurau’s volcanic landscape.
A young scientist marvels at what he has discovered with Ruud.
Ruud shares why, if we truly care about the planet, we need to ask ourselves some honest questions: How do the other species we share Earth with see us? Are we kind, generous, and respectful – or are we falling short?
“Over the years, I’ve come to believe that true environmental education is the foundation for becoming nature-literate. And it starts with empowering our teachers to teach outdoors. When we do that, we create generation after generation of children who not only understand nature but learn from it.
Bug Man in action! Ruud inspires curious minds at Kohuora Park. Photo credit: Sustainable Schools.
“Because that’s the heart of it: we don’t just learn about nature or in nature – we learn from nature. We begin to see the connections in everything. Nature runs on sunlight, uses only what it needs, and wastes nothing. It thrives on diversity, local wisdom, and life-friendly chemistry. It’s humbling and inspiring. What an incredible planet – and what an extraordinary outdoor classroom we have right at our feet,” says Ruud.
The day began with a warm welcome from Ngāti Tahinga Wilson of Ngāti Te Ahiwaru, who share the park’s cultural importance as a historic portage site. Image: Sustainable Schools.
Guided by Mātātahi Taiao – a Māori-led youth climate initiative in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland Council Rangatahi Advisors, and leading scientists like fungi expert Dr. Peter Buchanan, students explored ecosystems through a Māori lens and hands-on science stations covering insects, birds, trees, fungi, pest control, and water quality.
Kohuora Park, Papatoetoe. A thriving natural habitat.
Sustainable school’s advisor Cate Jessep says, “It was a valuable hands-on opportunity for teachers, students, and the wider community to connect with this special local place during Saturday’s community day. This work is more than just science, it’s about identity, guardianship, real world learning, inclusion and future leadership. As tamariki (children) engage with their local environment, they discover that they are part of it, and that they can protect it.”
Throughout the day, they learned new kupu (words), deepened their connection to nature, and strengthened their understanding of how to care for te taiao (the environment).
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Source: New Zealand Government
Today’s opening of a new 596-bed facility at Waikeria Prison will ensure Corrections can safely manage the rising prison population and provide effective services to help reduce reoffending, Corrections Minister Mark Mitchell says.
“Our Government has restored proper consequences for crime. Because of that, there has been an increase in the prison population and fewer victims of crime.
“As the prison population continues to increase, this new facility will help ensure Corrections has the right level of capacity and resources to keep its staff, people in prison, and the public safe.
“The facility is modern and fit-for-purpose. It adds 500 high-security beds to New Zealand’s prison system as well as 96 dedicated mental health and addiction beds.
“There is also a new education and rehabilitation hub with ten classrooms to support offenders with opportunities that put them on a better path away from crime.”
The new facility, consisting of 28 buildings, has been built across 21 hectares of land at Waikeria Prison, which is located 14 kilometres south of Te Awamutu in Waikato. Surrounded by a secure 1.7 km long perimeter fence, the new facility sits adjacent to the prison’s existing low security facility.
Key features include:
High-security accommodation for 500 men
A dedicated mental health and addiction service within a new 96-bed facility
An education and rehabilitation hub
Large kitchen and laundry, a new waste and recycling centre, and more industry training spaces for prisoners
Single point of entry with secure perimeter
Advanced biometric security
Two main visitation areas
A modern medical centre
“Corrections have already recruited 300 additional frontline staff for when it is ready to take prisoners in the coming months, following final assurance checks,” Mr Mitchell says.
“Preparations are also underway for a further expansion of Waikeria Prison, which is due to be completed in 2029 and will add a further 810 beds to New Zealand’s prison system.
“Ongoing investment in our prisons will keep us ahead of the increasing prison population and enable Corrections to focus on safety and effective rehabilitation to reduce reoffending.”
Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries
Whether you’re making family dinner, heating up leftovers, packing lunch for the kids, or having friends over for a barbecue, New Zealand Food Safety has great science-backed tips to keep everyone safe.
“Every year, thousands of New Zealanders get food poisoning. Many of these foodborne illnesses are due to poor food preparation, cooking, or storage at home,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle.
“There’s a wide range of symptoms, ranging from the inconvenient to the life-threatening for people vulnerable to illness.
“New Zealand Food Safety already has a wealth of science-based information on its Food safety at home webpages to help you prevent getting foodborne illnesses. This year, to coincide with World Food Safety Day tomorrow, we have distilled all this expertise into a new booklet of simple tips for avoiding foodborne illness in the home.”
From the store to your table, the ‘Food safety at home’ booklet is packed with science-based food-safety advice. It contains:
World Food Safety Day – jointly led by the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations – highlights the importance of food safety for the health, prosperity and wellbeing of people around the world. The theme for 2025 is “Science in action”.
“Our advice is based on up-to-date science, it’s now up to you to take action,” says Mr Arbuckle.
You can download your own ‘Food safety at home’ booklet on our website. And, to celebrate World Food Safety Day, try our quiz on Facebook tomorrow to see how food safety savvy you are.
Food safety at home booklet [PDF, 1.1 MB]
For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz
For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.
Source: New Zealand Police
To be attributed to Detective Senior Sergeant Scott Neilson:
A 38-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Hamilton woman Jayde Gilbert.
Jayde, aged 30, was struck by a vehicle at the corner of Ohaupo Road and Kahikatea Drive on 15 May.
The man charged with her murder was arrested today and will appear in Hamilton District Court this afternoon.
On behalf of the investigation team, I would like to thank the people who assisted Jayde after she was struck by the vehicle, and the many members of our community who responded to our appeals for information.
As this is now before the court, further comment is not available.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Inland Revenue (IR) has begun issuing income tax assessments to New Zealanders, kicking off the annual cycle of tax refunds and chasing up tax owned.
“New Zealand is one of the most heavily impacted countries by a new wave of AI-driven, hyper-personalised cyber threats. That makes tax time an especially risky period,” says Mark Gorrie, Managing Director Norton APAC.
Key tips for protecting yourself:
Limit what you share online. Scammers can use social media info to guess security questions or build convincing fake messages.
Consider enrolling in an identity protection service. These services can monitor your financial and personal data, alert you to unusual activity, and help you recover more quickly if your identity is compromised.
Common types of tax scams:
Source: New Zealand Government
The Minister Responsible for RMA Reform, Chris Bishop, has today released his decisions on 17 recommendations referred to him by Christchurch City Council on its Intensification Planning Instrument (Plan Change 14).
“In December 2024, the Council accepted the majority of the Independent Hearings Panel’s (IHP) recommendations on those parts of Plan Change 14 subject to Policies 3 and 4 of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development 2020 (NPS-UD),” Minister Bishop says.
“These recommendations were incorporated into its district plan. The Council rejected 20 of the IHP’s recommendations and referred them, along with its own alternative recommendations, to me for a final decision in early 2025.
“I have carefully considered this matter and taken extensive advice from officials. The law requires that I only consider matters that the IHP could have taken into account when making its recommendations.
“I have made decisions on 17 of the 20 recommendations referred to me by the Council, which relate to a range of issues including qualifying matters, zoning and built form standards.
“Together, these decisions will enable a greater level of development in and around Christchurch City’s urban centres as required by Policies 3 and 4 of the NPS-UD.
“I have not made decisions on three recommendations relating to Daresbury House, Antonio Hall and the Piko Residential Character Area.
“I intend to consider these recommendations once the Council has decided on the zoning of these areas. The Council may refer these decisions to me again ahead of deciding on the balance of Plan Change 14.
“I thank the Councillors, the Independent Hearings Panel and Council staff for the work undertaken on the Intensification Streamlined Planning Process so far.”
Minister Bishop’s decisions, made under Schedule 1 of the Resource Management Act 1991, are final and cannot be appealed to the Environment Court.
Editor’s note:
A table outlining the decisions is attached as a separate document.
Policies 3 and 4 of the NPS-UD are set out on page 11 of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development 2020.
The Minister’s decision making process is set out in Section 105, Schedule 1 of the RMA: Resource Management Act 1991 No 69 (as at 05 April 2025), Public Act 105 Minister must decide on rejected and alternative recommendations – New Zealand Legislation.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police are working to locate the driver of a red ute involved in a hit-and-run crash that left a woman seriously injured in Rotorua last night.
The crash happened about 9pm, near the intersection of Haupapa Street and Tuanekai Street.
After striking the victim, the vehicle drove east on Haupapa Street towards Fenton Street, Detective Sergeant Philip Wilkinson said.
The vehicle involved was still being sought by Police.
“This incident easily could have been fatal, and it’s important we hear from anyone who saw it happen, and anyone who witnessed an interaction between a woman and the driver of a red ute immediately prior.
“We are reviewing CCTV from the area, but if you have any information or cell phone footage, please contact us as soon as possible.”
If you have information that may assist, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report”, or call 105.
Please use the reference number 250605/9241.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
To be attributed to Detective Senior Sergeant Debra Gower:
One person has been located deceased following a house fire in Browne Street, Waitara this morning.
Emergency services were alerted to the fire at 7.30am.
The person found deceased is believed to have been the only occupant of the house at the time of the fire.
Enquiries are under way to determine the cause of the fire and at this stage there is no further information available.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre.
Source: New Zealand Police
State Highway 1 is closed at Peketā, Kaikoura, following a crash involving a truck and pedestrian.
Emergency services were called to the scene, between Inland Kaikōura Road and Rakanui Road, about 9.20am.
The Serious Crash Unit has been notified and the road is expected to be closed for some time. The closure affects both north and south-bound traffic.
Traffic management is being arranged, however motorists should use Inland Kaikōura Road/Leader Road East via Mt Lyford.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Transport Agency
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is urging motorists not to get caught out as more snow is forecast across the South Island leading into the weekend.
Heavy snow warnings or watches have been issued by the MetService from tomorrow, with heavy snow down to 300m potentially causing travel disruption, damage to trees and powerlines in Central Otago and Canterbury, from the Rangitata River southwards.
Queenstown Lakes is also facing potentially heavy snow to 400m, and snow is expected to fall about the Dunedin-Waitati Highway (SH1) from about 10am tomorrow
North of the Rangitata River, Canterbury and southern Marlborough may also be affected, with heavy snow possible down to 400m. Mountain passes across the island may be impacted as snow accumulates.
“We got off relatively lightly with the snow so far this week,” says NZTA system manager Mark Pinner.
“The highway closures we had in the MacKenzie Country were only short-lived and the impact was not widespread. If you are heading away for the weekend, and especially if you are travelling on highways at higher elevations, make sure you are prepared and plan ahead using our Journey Planner.”
Journey Planner(external link)
In addition to accumulating snow, the accompanying cold temperatures create risks of frost and ice on the roads.
“Make sure that if you are driving in these conditions, that you adjust your speeds and following distances accordingly.”
“If you can avoid or delay travel on roads while there is elevated risk, that’s sensible.”
NZTA will be working with its partners to keep a close eye on the State Highway network around the south and responding with its crews as required.
In the Westland District, motorists are encouraged to be prepared for potentially severe gale force southeast winds from tomorrow afternoon.
Source: New Zealand Government
A major step in protecting Franz Josef township on the West Coast has been officially completed.
Stage 1 of the Franz Josef Flood Protection Scheme, a major regional infrastructure project supported by a $9.2 million government grant will boost the resilience and safety of Franz Josef, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.
“The vulnerability of Franz Josef to flooding is well known. The completion of stage 1 works – installing stopbanks on the north side of the Waiho River, is the first step toward protecting the community and local economy against flooding events,” Mr Jones says.
Stage 1 was funded through a 2021 COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund – Infrastructure Reference Group (IRG) grant.
Mr Jones was at Franz Josef today to formally mark the end of stage 1 works.
“Last year, I announced a $6m grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to co-fund stage 2 of the flood protection scheme, including construction of new stopbanks and strengthening of existing stopbanks along the southern side of Waiho River.
“This investment will further strengthen Franz Josef’s ability to withstand extreme weather events and provide the community more time for effective long-term planning,” Mr Jones says.
Editors’ note
The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) is a $1.2 billion capital fund with the primary purpose of accelerating infrastructure projects, particularly with a focus on water storage, energy, Māori economic development, growth, and resilience, to make a difference in our regions.
In August 2024, the Government committed $200 million of the RIF to flood resilience and announced $101.1 million of investment into 42 flood resilience projects across New Zealand, which included Stage 2 of the Franz Josef Flood Protection Scheme.
More information about the RIF can be found on the Grow Regions website
Source: New Zealand Government
A new mobile ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist clinic has been launched in Northland, bringing high-quality specialist care directly to local communities, Health Minister Simeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey say.“This is a significant step toward improving access to care for people in rural and remote parts of Northland,” Health Minister Simeon Brown says.The initiative began in May with the first of several rural outreach clinics held in Kawakawa. Additional clinics are planned for Kaikohe and Rawene this month.“In just two days, the mobile clinic saw 53 patients – more than half of whom had been waiting over 10 months for an appointment, mostly for a first specialist assessment. Others were seen after spotting the clinic parked in their community.“These patients would otherwise have had to travel to Whangārei Hospital. That’s why initiatives like this make a real difference in improving timely access to care and delivering services closer to home.“They also support our focus on reducing wait times for first specialist assessments and elective surgeries by easing pressure on hospital waitlists.”Patients were assessed for a range of conditions, including hearing loss, grommet and tonsil concerns, chronic ear disease, nasal and sinus obstruction, and head and neck lumps.Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey says the mobile clinic is a welcome development for the region.“Access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people living in rural and remote communities.“This mobile clinic is fully equipped with advanced diagnostic and treatment technology, providing a standard of care on par with what patients receive at Whangārei or Kaitaia hospitals – exactly what rural communities deserve.”The service supports procedures such as endoscopy, vertigo manoeuvres, treatment for otitis media, adult grommet insertions, and removal of foreign bodies from the ear, nose, or throat. It also enables outpatient bookings for ENT surgeries including adenoidectomy, tonsillectomy, and mastoidectomy.“This initiative is a practical example of how we’re working to bring services closer to home and reduce long waits for specialist care.“Our focus is on ensuring all New Zealanders, regardless of where they live, can get the care they need without having to travel long distances or face lengthy delays,” Mr Doocey says.
Source: New Zealand Police
Southern Police are asking motorists to drive to the conditions and take extreme care today with black ice forming on Southland roads and snow incoming later throughout Otago.
Police have already attended one black-ice related crash this morning and are aware of another.
Thankfully no one has been injured but we want to ensure everyone gets to their destination safely.
Drivers need to be aware of the potential for slippery road surfaces and to drive the conditions.
ENDS
Issued by the Police Media Centre
Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council
“The changes being made by central government will impact the way local and regional governments operate, and how natural resources are managed under the RMA (Resource Management Act 1991). As Councillors, we want to ensure Waitaha can enjoy the opportunities – and avoid the pitfalls – that these changes may present.”
Chair Pauling said while clear national standards support greater regulatory certainty, consistency and improved compliance, there are unique issues in Waitaha that justify a more sophisticated, locally informed and evidenced approach.
“Waitaha is unlike any other region in Aotearoa. We have about 70 per cent of the country’s groundwater, braided rivers, coastal environments, and highly productive farmland. We also have a unique partnership with Ngāi Tahu as mana whenua.
“We want to make sure that any decisions made by central government value existing land uses, such as food production, and enable new opportunities and resource uses, while safeguarding the region’s environmental and cultural health for future generations.”
Chair Pauling also referenced Council’s recent strategic work (PDF file, 105KB). “We have a set of shared positions that we agree on as a Council, that cover a range of issues impacting the region. The Council’s positions relate to managing environmental effects, managing natural resource use, economic prosperity, structure of local, regional and central government, and Treaty partnership.
“Our Council is clear about what outcomes we want to achieve for the region. Alongside Te Uru Kahika and our partners, with a view across Te Waipounamu, we welcome the opportunity to inform central government decisions and, together, make these outcomes a reality,” he said.
Watch the Council discussion on position statements from our
Canterbury Regional Council Deputy Chair Dr Deon Swiggs outlined how the national direction package is one example of Government’s work programme that puts increased pressure on regional government and ratepayers.
“Resource management system reforms, Local Government Act amendment, changes to legislation around Te Tiriti partnership and transport funding decisions—these are all changes coming our way from central government. Whether you think they’re good or bad, these reforms all impact on elected members’ ability to make decisions for our community.
“The current structure and funding of local government across Aotearoa is unsustainable and we all agree that change is needed. We look forward to having some crunchy conversations over the coming months, within the Council and with others in the region, to develop a collective vision of what might work best for Waitaha,” he said.
Deputy Swiggs reaffirmed that the council was united in its position and agreed that change was needed.
“We need greater regulatory clarity and certainty, as well as better alignment between central, regional and local government. We are taking a strategic approach so that we can be clear, to government and our communities, about what we need and want for Waitaha.
“We need to strike an approach that values our community and environment’s needs, that allows us to adapt and explore exciting opportunities for the region such as tourism, aerospace, renewable energy and other emerging innovations,” he said.
Chair Pauling and Deputy Swiggs reinforced Canterbury Regional Council’s commitment to proactively work with its partners to improve economic and environmental outcomes for the region.
If you’d like to talk to your local Councillor about issues impacting Waitaha/Canterbury or your local area, you can
Aotearoa New Zealand’s Parliament has confirmed the unprecedented punishments proposed for opposition indigenous Te Pāti Māori MPs who performed a haka in protest against the Treaty Principles Bill.
Te Pāti Māori co-leaders Debbie Ngarewa-Packer and Rawiri Waititi will be suspended for 21 days, and MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke suspended for seven days, taking effect immediately.
Opposition parties tried to reject the recommendation, but did not have the numbers to vote it down.
Te Pati Maori MPs speak after being suspended. Video: RNZ/Mark Papalii
The heated debate to consider the proposed punishment came to an end just before Parliament was due to rise.
Waititi moved to close the debate and no party disagreed, ending the possibility of it carrying on in the next sitting week.
Leader of the House Chris Bishop — the only National MP who spoke — kicked off the debate earlier in the afternoon saying it was “regrettable” some MPs did not vote on the Budget two weeks ago.
Bishop had called a vote ahead of Budget Day to suspend the privileges report debate to ensure the Te Pāti Māori MPs could take part in the Budget, but not all of them turned up.
Robust, rowdy debate
The debate was robust and rowdy with both the deputy speaker Barbara Kuriger and temporary speaker Tangi Utikare repeatedly having to ask MPs to quieten down.
Tākuta Ferris spoke first for Te Pāti Māori, saying the haka was a “signal of humanity” and a “raw human connection”.
He said Māori had faced acts of violence for too long and would not be silenced by “ignorance or bigotry”.
“Is this really us in 2025, Aotearoa New Zealand?” he asked the House.
“Everyone can see the racism.”
He said the Privileges Committee’s recommendations were not without precedent, noting the fact Labour MP Peeni Henare, who also participated in the haka, did not face suspension.
Henare attended the committee and apologised, which contributed to his lesser sanction.
‘Finger gun’ gesture
MP Parmjeet Parmar — a member of the Committee — was first to speak on behalf of ACT, and referenced the hand gesture — or “finger gun” — that Te Pāti Māori co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer made in the direction of ACT MPs during the haka.
Parmar told the House debate could be used to disagree on ideas and issues, and there was not a place for intimidating physical gestures.
Greens co-leader Marama Davidson said New Zealand’s Parliament could lead the world in terms of involving the indigenous people.
She said the Green Party strongly rejected the committee’s recommendations and proposed their amendment of removing suspensions, and asked the Te Pāti Māori MPs be censured instead.
Davidson said the House had evolved in the past — such as the inclusion of sign language and breast-feeding in the House.
She said the Greens were challenging the rules, and did not need an apology from Te Pāti Māori.
NZ First leader Winston Peters said Te Pāti Māori and the Green Party speeches so far showed “no sincerity, saying countless haka had taken place in Parliament but only after first consulting the Speaker.
“They told the media they were going to do it, but they didn’t tell the Speaker did they?
‘Bunch of extremists’
“The Māori party are a bunch of extremists,” Peters said, “New Zealand has had enough of them”.
Peters was made to apologise after taking aim at Waititi, calling him “the one in the cowboy hat” with “scribbles on his face” [in reference to his traditional indigenous moko — tatoo]. He continued afterward, describing Waititi as possessing “anti-Western values”.
Labour’s Willie Jackson congratulated Te Pāti Māori for the “greatest exhibition of our culture in the House in my lifetime”.
Jackson said the Treaty bill was a great threat, and was met by a great haka performance. He was glad the ACT Party was intimidated, saying that was the whole point of doing the haka.
He also called for a bit of compromise from Te Pāti Māori — encouraging them to say sorry — but reiterated Labour’s view the sanctions were out of proportion with past indiscretions in the House.
Greens co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick said the debate “would be a joke if it wasn’t so serious”.
“Get an absolute grip,” she said to the House, arguing the prime minister “is personally responsible” if the House proceeds with the committee’s proposed sanctions.
Eye of the beholder
She accused National’s James Meager of “pointing a finger gun” at her — the same gesture coalition MPs had criticised Ngarewa-Packer for during her haka. The Speaker accepted he had not intended to; Swarbrick said it was an example where the interpretation could be in the eye of the beholder.
She said if the government could “pick a punishment out of thin air” that was “not a democracy”, putting New Zealand in very dangerous territory.
An emotional Maipi-Clarke said she had been silent on the issue for a long time, the party’s voices in haka having sent shockwaves around the world. She questioned whether that was why the MPs were being punished.
“Since when did being proud of your culture make you racist?”
“We will never be silenced, and we will never be lost,” she said, calling the Treaty Principles bill a “dishonourable vote”.
She had apologised to the Speaker and accepted the consequence laid down on the day, but refused to apologise. She listed other incidents in Parliament that resulted in no punishment.
NZ Parliament TV: Te Pāti Māori Privileges committee debate. Video: RNZ
Maipi-Clarke called for the Treaty of Waitangi to be recognised in the Constitution Act, and for MPs to be required to honour it by law.
‘Clear pathway forward’
“The pathway forward has never been so clear,” she said.
ACT’s Nicole McKee said there were excuses being made for “bad behaviour”, that the House was for making laws and having discussions, and “this is not about the haka, this is about process”.
She told the House she had heard no good ideas from the Te Pāti Māori, who she said resorted to intimidation when they did not get their way, but the MPs needed to “grow up” and learn to debate issues. She hoped 21 days would give them plenty of time to think about their behaviour.
Labour MP and former Speaker Adrian Rurawhe started by saying there were “no winners in this debate”, and it was clear to him it was the government, not the Parliament, handing out the punishments.
He said the proposed sanctions set a precedent for future penalties, and governments might use it as a way to punish opposition, imploring National to think twice.
He also said an apology from Te Pāti Māori would “go a long way”, saying they had a “huge opportunity” to have a legacy in the House, but it was their choice — and while many would agree with the party there were rules and “you can’t have it both ways”.
Te Pāti Māori co-leader Rawiri Waititi said there had been many instances of misinterpretations of the haka in the House and said it was unclear why they were being punished, “is it about the haka . . . is about the gun gestures?”
“Not one committee member has explained to us where 21 days came from,” he said.
Hat and ‘scribbles’ response
Waititi took aim at Peters over his comments targeting his hat and “scribbles” on his face.
He said the haka was an elevation of indigenous voice and the proposed punishment was a “warning shot from the colonial state that cannot stomach” defiance.
Waititi said that throughout history when Māori did not play ball, the “coloniser government” reached for extreme sanctions, ending with a plea to voters: “Make this a one-term government, enrol, vote”.
He brought out a noose to represent Māori wrongfully put to death in the past, saying “interpretation is a feeling, it is not a fact . . . you’ve traded a noose for legislation”.
This article is republished under a community partnership agreement with RNZ.
Property values in Aotearoa New Zealand edged down by -0.1% in May and remain -1.6% below a year ago.
National and Main Centres
May was a patchy month for the various sub-markets across Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, with Rodney recording a +0.4% rise, Franklin up by +0.2%, and Waitakere holding steady. But Auckland City and Manukau both fell by -0.3%, with Papakura (-0.6%) and North Shore (-1.0%) registering even larger drops.
Franklin and Rodney remain higher than three months ago, but the rest of Auckland’s sub-markets have seen values drop since February (albeit only -0.1% in Manukau).
Mr Davidson said, “Auckland is a pretty good example of the wider forces that are playing out across the housing market at present. In an environment where lower interest rates are being counteracted by other restraints, the tr
The Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the ten months ended 30 April 2025were released by the Treasury today. The April results are reported against forecasts based on the Budget Economic and Fiscal Update 2025 (BEFU 2025), published on 22 May 2025, and the results for the same period for the previous year.
The majority of the key fiscal indicators for the ten months ended 30 April 2025 were slightly better than forecast. The Government’s main operating indicator, the operating balance before gains and losses excluding ACC (OBEGALx), showed a deficit of $7.4 billion. This was $0.1 billion smaller than forecast. While the core Crown results were favourable to forecast, this was largely offset by the results of State-owned Enterprises. Net core Crown debt was in line with forecast at $184.6 billion, or 43.2% of GDP.
Core Crown tax revenue, at $100.4 billion, was $0.7 billion (0.7%) higher than forecast. Corporate tax and other individuals’ tax contributed $0.4 billion and $0.2 billion respectively to the above forecast result.
Core Crown expenses, at $115.8 billion, were $0.1 billion (0.1%) below forecast. This variance is mostly timing in nature and was spread across a range of agencies.
The OBEGALx was a deficit of $7.4 billion, $0.1 billion less than the forecast deficit. When including the revenue and expenses of ACC, the OBEGAL deficit was $11.7 billion, in line with the forecast deficit.
The operating balance deficit of $6.7 billion was $2.8 billion higher than the forecast deficit. This reflected both the OBEGAL result and net unfavourable valuation movements. Net gains on financial instruments were $4.3 billion lower than forecast, driven by New Zealand Superannuation Fund (NZS Fund) and ACC’s investment portfolios. This unfavourable variance was partly offset by net gains on non-financial instruments being $1.3 billion higher than the forecast loss. This was largely owing to the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme with net gains on the liability being $1.1 billion higher than the forecast loss.
The core Crown residual cash deficit of $8.4 billion was $0.1 billion lower than forecast. While net core Crown operating cash outflows were $0.4 billion higher than forecast, net core Crown capital cash outflows were $0.5 billion lower than forecast.
Net core Crown debt at $184.6 billion (43.2% of GDP) was in line with forecast. With core Crown residual cash broadly in line with forecast, this and minor movements in non-cash items contributed to the net core Crown debt result.
Gross debt at $203.5 billion (47.7% of GDP) was $6.3 billion lower than forecast, largely owing to lower than forecast unsettled trades and issuances of Euro Commercial Paper.
Net worth at $181.4 billion (42.5% of GDP) was $3.1 billion lower than forecast largely reflecting the year-to-date operating balance result.
| Year to date | Full Year | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April 2025 Actual1 $m |
April 2025 BEFU 2025 Forecast1 $m |
Variance2 BEFU 2025 $m |
Variance BEFU 2024 % |
June 2025 BEFU 2025 Forecast3 $m |
|
| Core Crown tax revenue | 100,365 | 99,645 | 720 | 0.7 | 120,894 |
| Core Crown revenue | 110,787 | 110,304 | 483 | 0.4 | 134,188 |
| Core Crown expenses | 115,808 | 115,937 | 129 | 0.1 | 142,207 |
| Core Crown residual cash | (8,439) | (8,565) | 126 | 1.5 | (9,990) |
| Net core Crown debt4 | 184,620 | 184,622 | 2 | – | 185,644 |
| as a percentage of GDP | 43.2% | 43.2% | 42.7% | ||
| Gross debt | 203,505 | 209,766 | 6,262 | 3.0 | 209,999 |
| as a percentage of GDP | 47.7% | 49.1% | 48.3% | ||
| OBEGAL excluding ACC (OBEGALx) | (7,444) | (7,526) | 82 | 1.1 | (10,175) |
| OBEGAL | (11,667) | (11,660) | (7) | (0.1) | (14,740) |
| Operating balance (excluding minority interests) | (6,665) | (3,872) | (2,793) | (72.1) | (5,493) |
| Net worth | 181,424 | 184,553 | (3,129) | (1.7) | 183,130 |
| as a percentage of GDP | 42.5% | 43.2% | 42.1% | ||
Covering period of Thursday 5 – Monday 9 June
After a night of wild weather, MetService is forecasting on-and-off showers on Thursday, before a cold cup of winter is served across the country from Friday into the weekend.
What’s happened and updates:
• Between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning several areas experienced brief but intense periods of rain
• Taupō was just 0.2 mm shy of their wettest June day at 61.2 mm of rain from 9am Wednesday to 9am Thursday
• The band of heavy rain and downpours that lashed the country overnight has now shifted east away from New Zealand
• Scattered showers are expected today – and even sunny spells for some
• However, the West Coast of the South Island remains unsettled, with rain and a chance of thunderstorms forecast for later today
Parts of inland Canterbury woke up to a snowy scene on Thursday morning, but there’s more to come. Snow is set to return on Friday and Saturday to Southland, Otago, Canterbury and Marlborough. Heavy Snow Watches and Warnings have been issued, with the largest accumulations expected above 400 metres. However, flurries are possible down to around 200 to 300 metres including in Queenstown. Several Road Snowfall Warnings are also in place.
“The snow may affect travel and could have an impact on rural communities and farmers,” says MetService meteorologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane. “It’s a good idea to prepare ahead of time and allow extra time if you have to head out on the roads.”
Elsewhere, the weekend brings a mix of showers and drier spells, and windy conditions in Westland where there is a Watch for Strong Winds in place. But it’s the cold that most people will be feeling.
“Firewood, warm drinks, and plenty of extra layers will go a long way, I would imagine!” Makgabutlane says.
Temperatures across the South Island are forecast to peak in the low to mid-single digits during the day, with overnight lows well below freezing. Wānaka stands out, with a daytime high of just 2°C and a chilly low of -6°C. The North Island will be feeling the cold too, with a sharp drop in temperatures over the next couple of days. Napier sees a warm 22°C today but will struggle to 13°C on Friday. Waiouru is only expected to reach 4°C this weekend, with highs of 10°C in Palmerston North and 13°C in Auckland.
