Author: MIL OSI Publisher

Posted on

Israeli Supreme Court hearing on press access to Gaza looms – RSF and CPJ call for action

Nearly five months after a joint statement by 29 MFC member states called on Israel to allow press immediate independent access to Gaza and to protect journalists on the ground, the complete ban on media access remains in force.

The ban has persisted since the start of the war over two years ago, despite the ceasefire plan that went into effect on 10 October 2025.

In a letter addressed to the foreign ministers of MFC member states — which includes the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Canada and France — RSF and CPJ have urged these governments to:

  • Send official representatives to attend the January 26 hearing before Israel’s Supreme Court concerning the second petition filed by the Foreign Press Association (FPA) seeking unrestricted independent access into Gaza for journalists;
  • Make press freedom a priority in discussions with the new technocratic government — appointed under the US President’s plan to govern Gaza and led by Ali Shaath — beginning with the immediate lifting of the media blockade; and
  • Ensure that the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) applies UN Security Council Resolution 2222, which recognises journalists as civilians in times of conflict and guarantees both their protection and foreign media access to Gaza.

Independent access ‘fundamental’
 “Independent access to conflict zones is a fundamental principle of war reporting,” said RSF’s director-general Thibaut Bruttin.

“The foreign press has been able to cover many recent high-intensity conflicts, from Iraq to Afghanistan to Ukraine.

Article by AsiaPacificReport.nz

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/01/25/israeli-supreme-court-hearing-on-press-access-to-gaza-looms-rsf-and-cpj-call-for-action/

Posted on

Tony Stamp: ‘Once I started just making beats my music fell into place’

Source: Radio New Zealand

With an origin story that includes being “bullied” onto the microphone by his 95bFM colleague Wallace Chapman and invited to tell weird tales by his Facebook friend David Farrier, Tony Stamp has been part of the RNZ Music team for close to two decades.

Starting out as a sound engineer, the award-winning music journalist now works as the producer of Music 101 and host ofThe Sampler.

On his mixtape of five favourite songs, a radio-friendly ’80s hit rubs against some saucy R&B first heard at Khuja Lounge and the “warm and inviting” electronica of Four Tet.

This video is hosted on Youtube.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/tony-stamp-once-i-started-just-making-beats-my-music-fell-into-place/

Posted on

Update – Mount Maunganui slip

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson

Recovery work at Mount Maunganui has been halted as a precaution this morning. At 11.50am, recovery efforts were paused after concerns from the grounds about a potential slip.

Geotechnical experts are assessing the area and teams will resume work as soon as they are cleared to do so.

Delays like this are frustrating but the safety of everyone supporting the recovery effort is paramount.

We will resume our search as soon as possible.

Further information will be released when it becomes available.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/update-mount-maunganui-slip/

Posted on

Chalamet getting fresh for an Oscar, or is his campaign a bit (ping) pongy?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Usually when we talk about someone being “due”, it’s off the back of an incredible career, spanning decades, that’s littered with movies that absolutely could and perhaps should have nabbed one.

Glenn Close is the undisputed queen of the Academy Awards’ always-the-bridesmaid gang. She scored her first nomination in 1983, a Best Supporting Actress nod for her imperious turn as an amoral author in The World According to Garp, losing out to Jessica Lange in Tootsie.

Close has come, err, close, seven more times, most recently for Hillbilly Elegy, though her turn as the conniving Marquise de Merteuil in Dangerous Liaisons was arguably her most deserving shot. But that went to Jodie Foster in The Accused.

Timothée Chalamet in Marty Supreme.

A24

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/chalamet-getting-fresh-for-an-oscar-or-is-his-campaign-a-bit-ping-pongy/

Posted on

Mount Maunganui slip – statement from Max’s family

Source: New Zealand Police

My love for Max is impossible to explain, no words are big enough to describe this love or loss. What I can say is from the moment I first looked at his beautiful blue eyes almost 16 years ago he had my whole heart, he was my sunshine. Max was an incredible, kind, and beautiful human being. He was a wonderful son, a devoted big brother, grandson, nephew, friend, teammate, and boyfriend. He was such a good kid, and he is so deeply loved.

Max was incredibly close to his family, and the bond we shared with him meant everything to us. He brought so much joy, laughter, and light into our lives every single day. His incredible friends and his girlfriend meant the world to him, and the love, happiness, and sense of belonging they gave him brought him so much joy.

Life without Max is impossible to imagine. In truth, all of this feels impossible to imagine. We are endlessly proud of who he is and that he is ours.

This week Max would have turned 16. A “milestone” birthday and something we were all looking forward to celebrating. Just days ago, my biggest fear was him getting his driver’s licence. How I wish now that he could have experienced the joy of driving, and so many other moments that growing up brings. Our lives have changed so suddenly and so completely, we will never be the same.

We would like to thank everyone who has reached out with messages of support. They mean more to us than we can ever express.

We also want to sincerely thank the entire team working at Mauao. We have been cared for with extraordinary kindness, compassion, and humanity. With tears in their eyes they have updated us, sat with us, fed us. They have searched for hours on end and continue to work tirelessly to bring our baby home to us.

Our hearts are also with the families who are waiting for their loved ones with us. We share this grief with you, and we are holding you close in our thoughts during this unimaginably painful time.

Max will always be loved, always be ours, and always be remembered. Love you 100 Max.

– Max’s mum and family

– ENDS

Note to media: Max’s family will not be providing further comment and ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/mount-maunganui-slip-statement-from-maxs-family/

Posted on

Doctor recruited for Whakatāne Hospital quits before he starts role

Source: Radio New Zealand

Whakatāne Hospital has been recruiting for more obstetrician-gynaecologists. (File photo) Screenshot / Google

A senior obstetrician who was recruited from overseas as part of the effort to restart services at Whakatāne Hospital has quit during his orientation period.

Hundreds of women from Eastern Bay of Plenty have had to travel to Tauranga Hospital to give birth in the last year, since four of Whakatāne’s five obstetricians resigned.

Health NZ declined to confirm the recent resignation, saying it was “not able to comment on specific recruitment processes” – but stated it was “on track for the recommencement of 24/7 services in the coming months”.

Meanwhile, three other new obstetrician-gynaecologists were welcomed at a pōhiri at Whakatāne on Monday 19 January, and RNZ understands recruitment continues for two more positions.

In a written response to questions, group director of operations for Bay of Plenty, Andrew Boyd, said there had been “good progress with international recruitment”.

“We are prioritising the recruitment of senior medical officers to Whakatāne Hospital to support the recommencement of Secondary Obstetrics and Gynaecology services into the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

“Our focus remains on achieving the best possible outcomes for patients, including mothers and their whānau.”

Health NZ held a community hui late last year in Whakatāne, Kawerau and Ōpōtiki, with “constructive” discussions on the future of obstetrics and gynaecology services at Whakatāne Hospital, Boyd said.

“We thank the community for its patience, feedback, and continued support as we strengthen these vital hospital services.”

Uncertainty ‘frustrating’ – midwives

Community midwives said the sudden resignation of the specialist in December – after less than six months’ orientation at Tauranga Hospital – was worrying.

One local midwife, who asked to remain anonymous, said the doctor had been introduced as the person recruited to lead the service at his welcome party at Whakatāne maternity unit in November.

“As usual communication has been poor, and we do not know why he felt he could no longer continue in his role after previously appearing highly motivated and keen to get started,” she said.

“You can appreciate the frustration this has caused to many hopeful for our obstetric services to be reinstated by March and the uncertainty surrounding a replacement for him.”

Another midwife said three new obstetrician-gynaecologists had been welcomed.

“There are two more being recruited and they are on track for an April commencement of full services.

“[But it] depends on the recruitment and if they can hold these new ones.”

RNZ understands Health NZ’s regional director for Midland Te Manawa Taki, Cath Cronin, stipulated the Eastern Bay Plenty service must be reestablished in April.

However, some Tauranga Hospital staff fear specialists may be required to help cover Whakatāne, if it was not be fully-staffed by then, putting more pressure on their own services.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/doctor-recruited-for-whakatane-hospital-quits-before-he-starts-role/

Posted on

Wellington’s popular Chocolate Fish Café, forced to shut by filmmaker Sir Peter Jackson’s property company, opens for the last time

Source: Radio New Zealand

Popular Wellington café, Chocolate Fish, is set to close on Sunday.

Café owners John and Penny Pennington like to think of the Chocolate Fish Café, as somewhat of a Mirimar institution. Operating since 1997, it had been at its current site since 2009.

Located at Shelly Bay, John said part of the cafe’s attraction was that it had space for kids to run around, free parking and “pretty good” food.

Chocolate Fish Cafe owners John and Penny Pennington. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

This month the cafe looked a little different however, with price tags littering the room with everything from the chairs and tables to the cutlery on sale.

“Because we’ve been terminated and don’t have anything to sell, and of course we’ve got a bit of debt and that sort of thing, and nowhere to go, we decided, right, we’d turn January, our last month of trading, into a garage sale,” John said.

Penny said it was devastating to have to close.

John said the café had a big client-base that ranged from regular locals to tour groups and people who specifically come out to Shelly Bay to go to their cafe.

Penny said the café had been described as being a hub of the community.

“We love coming to work every day because it’s like coming and seeing your friends, your whanau, and it’s just wonderful.”

Why is the café closing?

The Chocolate Fish cafe. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

The cafe site was brought by Sir Peter Jackson and Dame Fran Walsh in 2023.

It had followed a rocky few years at Shelly Bay, with a planned controversial housing development spearheaded by the Wellington company which was later scrapped, and a fire which gutted the iconic Sawtooth building and forced the Chocolate Fish to relocate for months due to asbestos risk.

John said they thought they had won the Lotto when Sire Peter and Dame Fran purchased it.

“Everything was tracking so positively for us being able to continue on,” Penny said.

“To have that suddenly wiped out, that’s been a very bitter pill. We’re more than a café, we’re a bit of an institution,” John added.

The outside of the café. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

WingNut PM, the property arm of Jackson and Walsh’s WingNut Group, told the Penningtons at the end of September it was terminating the lease. The pair initially publicly criticised the pair for the decision, but later walked the comments back.

At the time, WingNut PM told RNZ the owners had been aware the original Submarine Barracks required “substantial remedial work”, including replacing the roof, restoring its historic frontage, interior renovations, applying a new coat of paint to the exterior, and temporarily closing the parking area for tar-sealing.

The spokesperson said they had been in discussions with the Penningtons for the past year about its pending closure.

WingNut PM declined RNZ’s request for comment on this story.

Not likely to be another Chocolate Fish

The Penningtons explored other options, but a site as big as theirs was hard to come by. So far they had not found another space like it, although Penny said they would keep looking.

“I don’t see a Chocolate Fish to this degree ever happening again, sadly – it’s a huge space.”

Chocolate Fish Café closed its kitchen in late December, and John said it some ways it was now a relief to fully close.

“The menu has been quite small, and people trying to come out for that last fish sandwich have been disappointed.”

Coupled with poor summer weather, he said it had been “a little bit depressing”.

Their final message to their customers: “We’ve loved having you.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/wellingtons-popular-chocolate-fish-cafe-forced-to-shut-by-filmmaker-sir-peter-jacksons-property-company-opens-for-the-last-time/

Posted on

Mt Maunganui landslide victims: Long-time friends spent every summer at campsite

Source: Radio New Zealand

A floral tribute left for Susan Knowles at the Mt Maunganui landslide cordon. CHARLOTTE COOK / RNZ

A friend of a woman killed in the Mt Maunganui landslide said her friend was on her annual summer camping trip with her long-time camping buddy.

Susan Knowles, 71, was one of the six named as buried under the rubble, along with her friend Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler, also 71.

The pair went camping there together every summer, said Alison Holtom, a friend of Knowles for almost a decade, who came to lay flowers in her honour on Saturday evening.

Susan Doreen Knowles, 71, from Ngongotaha, is one of the Mt Maunganui landslide victims. SUPPLIED

“They stay here at the Mount, her and Jackie, for about a month every year,” Holtom said. “They rent a caravan every year as long as I’ve known her.”

  • Latest live updates from Mt Maunganui

    • One year Holtom joined them for a night. She said she had many good times shared with Knowles, who she knew through horse riding.

    “Sue was just an absolute delight… beautiful smile. Just the loveliest lady, honestly just the loveliest… she always greeted everyone, ‘How are you, blossom?’ That’s what she always said.”

    Holtom said there were about six friends all from horse riding who were all shocked.

    Flowers at the cordon. RNZ/Charlotte Cook

    “Just unbelievable, I just couldn’t believe that you know that they’re involved with it and that yeah this could happen and has happened”.

    Wheeler – from Rotorua – was the founder of Colour Concepts, an interior design store in the area. According to the Colour Concepts website, Wheeler and her husband Terry started the business in 2002 and their daughter was now a key member of their team.

    Knowles, from Ngongotahā, was a property manager for EVES Real Estate. According to the EVES website, Knowles had a background of management and property ownership since her early 20s. It said she enjoyed horse riding and mountain biking, along with spending time with her close-knit family.

    The other unaccounted for victims were Lisa Maclennan, 50, from Morrinsville, Måns Bernhardsson, 20, from Sweden, Sharon Maccanico, 15, from Auckland and Max Furse-Kee, 15, from Auckland.

    Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/mt-maunganui-landslide-victims-long-time-friends-spent-every-summer-at-campsite/

Posted on

Teen athletics star Sam Ruthe smashes mile world record for his age

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sam Ruthe. photosport

Running sensation Sam Ruthe has become the fastest 16-year-old to ever run the mile, achieving the feat at the Cooks Classic in Whanganui on Saturday night.

The Tauranga teenager clocked three minutes, 53.36 seconds to go under the former world record mark held by Australian Cam Myers.

Ruthe was narrowly beaten to the finish line by two-time Olympian and training partner Sam Tanner, who helped push the youngster on, as he has done in other races on the domestic scene.

“It feels incredible. That was my goal coming into this race. I was trying to beat Tanner as well, but as soon as the gun started, I just wanted to run as fast as possible,” Ruthe told TVNZ.

“To lead out some of this race was something I felt I just had to do. I’ll hopefully get my time down faster.”

Tanner, 25, defended his national men’s senior mile title, surging past Ruthe in the home straight to win in 3min 53.36sec.

Sam Tanner and Sam Ruthe, 800m, Potts Classic, Mitre 10 Park, Hastings. Kerry Marshall/Photosport

It came a week after Ruthe pipped Tanner in an exciting 800m race at the Potts Classic in Hastings.

Last year the pair finished in a dead heat in the final of the men’s 1500m at the national championships.

Both will leave for the United States next week, with Ruthe eyeing four indoor mile races on successive weekends, in a campaign he believes will be important for his development.

Ruthe is now seventh on the list of all-time New Zealand milers, having overtaken the legendary Sir Peter Snell.

In other notable results, sprinters Tiaan Whelpton and Zoe Hobbs won the respective men’s and women’s 100m titles in sharp – though wind-assisted – times.

Ireland’s Laura Nicholson ran a smart time of 4min 43.75sec to win the women’s mile.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/teen-athletics-star-sam-ruthe-smashes-mile-world-record-for-his-age/

Posted on

Live: Mt Maunganui landslide latest – storm repairs, landslide recovery work continue

Source: Radio New Zealand

Some people were in tears as groups left flowers, signs and messages at the cordoned-off entrances to the landslide-hit campground in Mt Maunganui last night. Nick Monro

Authorities have evacuated some East Coast households from Onepoto and parts of Te Araroa, after significant landslide risks were identified.

The evacuations late on Saturday night were led by police and FENZ, and it is not yet clear when those affected will be able to return home, with geotech assessments needed first.

Meanwhile, searchers at the scene of the devastating Mt Maunganui landslide are now entering day two of what has been termed the recovery phase, following the announcement from officials that it is highly unlikely anyone would have survived.

On Saturday human remains were found at the site, and the six people believed to have been caught in the landslide were named by police.

Police also announced on Saturday evening that a body was found in the search for a missing driver who was swept away in a car in the Mahurangi River, near Warkworth, on Wednesday.

Elsewhere, repairs after storm damage are underway, and access to some Northland communities isolated since last Sunday has been restored.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/live-mt-maunganui-landslide-latest-storm-repairs-landslide-recovery-work-continue/

Posted on

Victims get uneven access to funding due to appearance, report suggests

Source: Radio New Zealand

Independent victim advocate Ruth Money. (File photo) RNZ / Niva Chittock

An evaluation of the Victim Assistance Scheme suggests victims are getting uneven access to funding based on their appearance.

The report points to perceptions among some police personnel that victims of minor offences may not be referred for the scheme and that how a person presents may influence decisions.

One police representative was quoted saying victims get uneven access depending on how they look, their history and whether they have criminal records.

“If they are well presented and come across as a stereotypical victim, officers are more likely to refer to support, including VAS,” the report said.

New Zealand’s chief victims advisor Ruth Money said that was terrible behaviour.

“It is racist, gender-biased, victim-blaming behaviour that the police are working hard to correct and certainly everyone in the justice system should be working hard to correct,” she said. “Every victim of crime deserves to receive victim-led responses, all of them. It doesn’t matter what they look like and how they are presenting.”

Money was calling for more training for frontline staff and said officers needed to be more aware of their biases.

“They need to be trained in being aware of their bias and certainly some additional work around how to refer and why everyone should be referred to the appropriate support service seems to be required given this finding.”

The report recommended introducing an automated referral system.

Police said they were strengthening the Victim Assistance Scheme referral process. In a statement, director of frontline enablement Ben Butterfield said police were focusing on faster and more consistent referrals for victims.

“This includes enhancing the accuracy and consistency of referrals, improving information sharing, and ensuring our frontline staff have the tools and guidance they need to connect victims with Victim Support at the earliest opportunity.

“Together with our partners, we remain committed to continuous improvement to strengthening access to support that help mitigate the impacts of crime.”

The Ministry of Justice said the evaluation showed the scheme was broadly equitable. Group manager provider and community services Hayley MacKenzie said recent changes had allowed the scheme to reach more people and increase support, and it was now considering further improvements, including clearer criteria and stronger referral pathways.

Victim Support said it was working with police and the Ministry of Justice to fix gaps in how victims received help. Chief executive James McCulloch said the evaluation provided clear direction on where improvements were needed in the system.

“We welcome this feedback and, alongside our partners, are actively taking steps to address the identified gaps. Together with our partners, we remain committed to continuous improvement to our services and strengthening access to supports that help mitigate the impacts of crime.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/25/victims-get-uneven-access-to-funding-due-to-appearance-report-suggests/

Posted on

Access reopens for Northland settlements cut off since Sunday

Source: Radio New Zealand

Work to reinstate the washed-out bridge at Ngaiotonga started on Friday, once diggers could reach the area. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

Temporary repairs to a washed-out bridge on Northland’s east coast have restored road access to an area largely cut off from the outside world since last Sunday.

The Ngaiotonga Bridge on Rāwhiti Road, east of Kawakawa, was reopened on Saturday after work by contractors, the Far North District Council said.

But motorists were told to only drive at a crawl over the bridge, until permanent repairs can be completed after the long weekend, a council spokesman said.

The reopening means residents of Ōakura, Punaruku and other settlements are now reconnected to the rest of Northland via Russell.

The route to Whangārei in the south, however, is still blocked by a massive slip at Helena Bay Hill, which is expected to take weeks to clear.

Much of the North Island was hit by severe storms this week, that brought heavy rain, flooding and landslides.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/24/access-reopens-for-northland-settlements-cut-off-since-sunday/

Posted on

Access route reopens for Northland settlements cut off since Sunday

Source: Radio New Zealand

Work to reinstate the washed-out bridge at Ngaiotonga started on Friday, once diggers could reach the area. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

Temporary repairs to a washed-out bridge on Northland’s east coast have restored road access to an area largely cut off from the outside world since last Sunday.

The Ngaiotonga Bridge on Rāwhiti Road, east of Kawakawa, was reopened on Saturday after work by contractors, the Far North District Council said.

But motorists were told to only drive at a crawl over the bridge, until permanent repairs can be completed after the long weekend, a council spokesman said.

The reopening means residents of Ōakura, Punaruku and other settlements are now reconnected to the rest of Northland via Russell.

The route to Whangārei in the south, however, is still blocked by a massive slip at Helena Bay Hill, which is expected to take weeks to clear.

Much of the North Island was hit by severe storms this week, that brought heavy rain, flooding and landslides.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/24/access-route-reopens-for-northland-settlements-cut-off-since-sunday/

Posted on

Live: Evacuations on East Coast over landslide risks

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Gisborne District Council says flooding and slips have severely impacted Onepoto, Wharekahika and Te Araroa. SUPPLIED

Evacuations are underway on the East Coast in Onepoto and parts of Te Araroa due to landslide risks.

It will involve around 30 houses, with people being relocated to stay with friends, family or someone within the community.

There is no indication on how long people may be out of their homes, or whether they will be able to return.

Tairāwhiti CDEM Group Controller Ben Green said significant landslide risk had been identified, but no geotech assessments had been completed.

“We need to be confident there is no risk to life and until this has been completed, they will not be returning.

“When we visited Te Araroa [on Friday] we saw evidence of landslides in close proximity to houses and the potential risk to life is too great, until we understand what the geotech assessments come back with.”

The evacuations are being led by Police and FENZ, supported by the community civil defence teams.

Mount Maunganui landslide

Remains of victims have been found at a campground in Mount Maunganui overnight.

Six people have been unaccounted for since Thursday, police released their names on Saturday afternoon.

Emergency services are moving to a recovery phase, from a rescue operation.

The remains are now in custody of the coroner.

They will be transported to a mortuary in Hamilton.

Severe weather watches for South

Strong winds and persistent rain are forecast to hit the lower South Island, with watches in place until Sunday.

Otago south of Alexandra, Oamaru and mainland Southland are under a heavy rain watch, while Coastal Otago, Southland from Dunedin to Bluff and Stewart Island are all under a strong wind watch.

MetService said winds could approach severe gale in exposed places

Follow the RNZ liveblog at the top of the page for the latest updates.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/24/live-evacuations-on-east-coast-over-landslide-risks/

Posted on

Kiwi pro Josh Burnett wins third Tour of Southland cycling title, joining ranks of tour greats

Source: Radio New Zealand

Southlander Josh Burnett was originally set to miss out on Tour of Southland due to injury, but the event was rescheduled from November last year due to a storm. supplied

Southland’s Josh Burnett has become just the sixth rider to win three or more Tour of Southland titles, joining an elusive club that includes Brian Fowler and Hayden Roulston.

Burnett (team PowerNet), who rides for a professional team in Spain, started the day with a 19 second lead over Cambridge’s Matthew Wilson (Advanced Personnel Cycling Team). However an outstanding individual time trial by Wilson in the morning saw him take the stage victory and cut the lead to just 10sec heading into the final 77km stage, from Winton to Invercargill.

The fast and furious final stage was lashed by wind and rain throughout, with Wilson making a bold attack on the penultimate lap of the tour’s Waikiwi circuit finish before the two frontrunners finished safely in the bunch to repeat the one-two finish they recorded in 2024.

Burnett’s name now joins the likes of Warwick Dalton, Tino Tabak, Fowler, Roulston and Michael Vink as riders who have won New Zealand’s most prestigious stage race three or more times.

It almost didn’t happen, with Burnett originally ruled out of the November event by a badly broken arm and only coming back into the equation when an extreme weather event meant the 2025 edition was postponed until January.

“I was just planning on helping the Mito-Q boys out and cleaning their bikes. To get this opportunity, I’m super grateful to PowerNet, it’s such a well-run team. Both on and off the bike we’ve had such a good time this week. It’s a massive credit to Aaron (Sinclair) who has put this team together for the past few years. All I’ve had to think about is riding my bike,” Burnett said.

To get the chance to return from riding for his Spanish professional team, Burgos Burpellet BH, and win his home race was something special, Burnett said.

“It definitely hasn’t sunk in. I was just taking it day by day and I’m just really proud to be from this region,” he said.

“There’s no other bike race in the world where I get this amount of support so I’ve got to lap it up where I can. In Spain I can’t even read the signs, so when I’m here I make the most of it.”

Burnett, who also won the King of the Mountain classification, paid credit to his team mates, who were challenged throughout the week, particularly after losing team captain Ollie Jones to a crash on Tuesday.

“For sure there were some expectations on my shoulders all week, but I think it was mainly transferred onto my team mates, making them ride the front for three days, so a big shout out to those boys, because without them I wouldn’t have had the chance to contest the stages or be in contention.”

Burnett highlighted the battle he had with Wilson for the second Southland tour in a row. The pair sparred throughout the week, especially with one-two finishes on both the Remarkables and Bluff Hill finishes. Daniel Whitehouse (Quality Food Southland/Gough Brothers) was third overall at 1min 38sec.

“Massive credit to Matt because he is super strong and I’m sure he’s going to win a Southland one day, that’s for sure.”

Riders taking part in the Tour of Southland earlier this week. supplied

The final stage was won by Southland’s Nick Kergozou, the second time he has won the finale. Kergozou (Open Country-TES) said he was proud to win the stage and claim his fourth Sprint Ace title in his ninth Southland tour.

“I’m ecstatic with that. Matt Wilson was putting it in the gutter pretty hard. He was throwing it all out there and I knew I just had to follow to keep the sprint jersey alive.”

Timaru’s Noah Hollamby (Onya Bike) completed an outstanding debut Tour of Southland, winning the under 23 jersey and finishing fourth overall. Australian Ben Dyball (Macaulay Ford-Good Tech Team) was the leading over 35 rider, and fifth overall.

Macaulay Ford-Good Tech Team won the teams classification, while Christchurch’s James Krzanich (Lattitude Cycling Team) was named the Most Combative rider for the final stage and the tour overall.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/24/kiwi-pro-josh-burnett-wins-third-tour-of-southland-cycling-title-joining-ranks-of-tour-greats/

Posted on

Property Market – Does property double in a decade? Not in the last cycle, new data from realestate.co.nz shows

Source: RealEstate.co.nz

  • National average asking price increased by 55.1% in past 10 years
  • Auckland’s average asking price increases only 23.5%
  • The regions take the cake for delivering the biggest returns with seven doubling in price since 2015
  • Gisborne reports 145% increase from $284,134 in 2015 to $697,527 in 2025.

Lore tells us that property prices double every 10 years, but the latest data from realestate.co.nz shows this wasn’t the case nationally in the last decade. Between 2015 and 2025 New Zealand’s national average asking price only increased by 55.1%, from $556,931 to $863,747.

While the highly sought-after doubling in value milestone may not have occurred nationally, seven of New Zealand’s 19 regions did achieve the coveted accolade.

Gisborne topped the chart with a 145.5% increase in its asking price from $284,134 in 2015 to $697,527 in 2025. Manawatu/Whanganui followed with a 121.5% increase from $274,032 in 2015 to $606,985 in 2025 and Central North Island recorded the third highest increase of 119.2% from $348,659 in 2015 to $764,316 in 2025.

Of the major centres, Auckland delivered the least value increase in the last decade with a 23.5% increase from $846,730 in 2015 to $1,045,328 in 2025. Waikato was the standout performer with a 95.9% increase in average asking price over the decade, from $405,770 in 2015 to $795,097 in 2025.

Vanessa Williams, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says while it may be true for some, the last decade has debunked the notion as a general rule. “The idea that property always doubles in value every 10 years is a simplification that doesn’t reflect how the market really works,” says Williams. “Property moves in cycles – we have peaks, plateaus, and periods of correction, so doubling in value isn’t a guarantee and it will always depend on individual properties and locations as well.”

“Over the past decade, we’ve seen significant regional variation and, in many areas, growth has fallen well short of that aspirational ‘doubling in value’ benchmark. While prices generally rise over time, growth is rarely linear and depends heavily on when in the cycle you buy and sell.”

Which regions fetched returns for homeowners?

Southland (111.3%), Hawke’s Bay (105.0%), Wairarapa (100.7%) and Coromandel (100.1%) were the four remaining regions that more than doubled their average asking price during the past decade.

Williams says despite an ever-changing landscape, the value of property continues to increase over the long term.

“Over the past 10 years, we’ve seen the New Zealand property market navigate some of the most dramatic economic shifts in recent history, from a pandemic-fuelled boom to a sharp market reset. In the same period, we’ve seen significant regulatory change, with the introduction of loan-to-value (LVR) restrictions, the bright-line test, and more recently, debt-to-income (DTI) ratios.

Through it all, property has remained a national conversation and a first-choice of investment for many Kiwis.”

The good news? Hold on for another five years and your price may double

There’s better news for homeowners who bought 15 years ago – the national average asking price has come close to doubling over this period, increasing by 91.9% since 2010, from $450,014 to $863,747 in 2025.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, Central Otago/Lakes District recorded the greatest in average asking price over the 15-year period with prices rising 125.1% from $660,246 to $1,485,995.

About realestate.co.nz | New Zealand’s Best Small Workplace (2025)

Realestate.co.nz – your home for property search.

We’ve been helping people buy, sell, or rent property since 1996. Established before Google, realestate.co.nz is New Zealand’s longest-standing property website and the official website of the real estate industry. We are certified carbon neutral (2024 & 2025) and in 2025, realestate.co.nz was crowned Best Small/Micro Workplace in New Zealand by Great Place to Work.

Dedicated only to property, our mission is to empower people with a property search tool they can use to find the life they want to live. With residential, lifestyle, rural and commercial property listings, realestate.co.nz is the place to start for those looking to buy or sell property.  

Whatever life you’re searching for, it all starts here.  

Want more property insights?

Market insights: Search by suburb to see median sale prices, popular property types and trends over time.

 Glossary of terms:  

Average asking price (AAP) is neither a valuation nor the sale price. It is an indication of current market sentiment. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with the sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold. As it looks at different data, average asking prices may differ from recorded sales data released simultaneously.  

Price drop reflects the difference between a property’s original asking price when listed on realestate.co.nz and its price at the point of sale or withdrawal. While it doesn’t show the final sale price, it provides a strong signal of how much sellers are adjusting to meet buyer demand.  

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/18/property-market-does-property-double-in-a-decade-not-in-the-last-cycle-new-data-from-realestate-co-nz-shows/

Posted on

Employment Disputes – Strike period incident details – NZPFU again declines request to agree community safety process

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand received calls for 11 incidents between 12pm and 1pm today, Friday 16 January, the nineth time the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) has taken strike action.
Of these,10 incidents were in areas impacted by the strike, six of which were fire alarms that did not result in a fire.
The remaining incidents related to a motor vehicle crash involving a quad bike, a call to report a dog locked in a car, and a car fire which turned out to be a false alarm, all of which we responded to.
One further incident was a medical emergency which we did not attend during the strike hour. Hato Hone St John responded as per our contingency plan for this industrial action.
Deputy National Commander Megan Stiffler thanked New Zealanders for their extra care during the strike hour.
“I want to thank our 11,800 volunteers across the country, and their employers for supporting them to respond over today’s strike hour,” she says.
“I would also like to thank our Operational Commanders and Communication Centre Managers, who contributed to the response.”
Megan Stiffler says following the fire in Pakuranga last week, Fire and Emergency has again reached out to NZPFU officials to ask them to agree on a process for responding to emergency events.
“Our aim was to put arrangements in place to mitigate the risk to public safety during strikes, while preserving NZPFU members’ right to take industrial action,” Megan Stiffler says.
“This would cover potential loss of life, when fires are likely to spread, and the need for specialist equipment.
“A range of other organisations in New Zealand have specific requirements to mitigate risk to public safety when taking strike action and given the nature of the work we do I believe we have an obligation to work together to develop arrangements during industrial action. 
“Unfortunately, our request was rebuffed by the NZPFU. That is hugely disappointing and puts our communities in harm’s way.”
The NZPFU again plans to strike for an hour at midday on Friday 23 January and Friday 30 January.
“We have consistently called on NZPFU officials to call off these strikes while we’re actively engaged in independent facilitation to progress collective agreement negotiations. There is no point in putting public safety at risk when that process is ongoing,” Megan Stiffler says.
Fire and Emergency’s next scheduled facilitation with the NZPFU is on Monday 26 and Tuesday 27 January.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/16/employment-disputes-strike-period-incident-details-nzpfu-again-declines-request-to-agree-community-safety-process/

Posted on

CPAG concerned over changes in how child poverty is measured

Source: Child Poverty Action Group

Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) is concerned about today’s announcement from Stats NZ detailing significant changes to how material hardship will be measured in the Household Income and Living Survey, changes that could affect how child poverty is officially understood and reported in Aotearoa.
What has changed
Stats NZ confirmed that the current DEP-17 index will be replaced with a new MH-18 index.
While DEP-17 asks 17 questions and defines material hardship at a score of six or more, the MH-18 index will ask 18 questions with a new threshold of seven or more.
The new index introduces questions about digital inclusion and bedding quality, which CPAG considers important additions. However, it removes an item relating to visiting local places (such as shops), a change that may reduce understanding of in-person social participation.
“These timely updates reflect the changing reality of our society, but it is concerning that social participation in-person has withdrawn, especially without clear reasons for the new Material Hardship Questionnaire being capped at 18 questions,” says CPAG Research and Programme Officer Dr Yu (Harry) Shi.
Concerns about children’s voices
Dr Shi also says the updated methodology offers little clarity on how children were considered in the redesign.
During an embargoed briefing on Friday, Stats NZ officials confirmed that material hardship will be assessed through the Household Spending Module, answered by a “nominated ‘best’ person”, typically the bill-payer, rather than young people themselves.
This means that while individual spending modules will be completed by all household members aged 15 and over, those responses will not directly inform headline material hardship rates.
CPAG is concerned this approach risks overlooking variation in children’s experiences within households, with more detailed insights only available to researchers through the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI).
“While asking each person of the age 15 or older to report on their personal spending behaviour, the collation of all individiual responses under a single data point does not reflect the weight of young people’s experience of material hardship, nor does the design align with its lead, the Child Poverty Reduction Act,” says Dr Shi.
“The onus of proof should not be on interested researchers to dive into IDI to isolate young people’s experience of material hardship.”
Impact of Census cancellation? 
CPAG is particularly concerned that some aspects of the redesign may be linked to the scrapping of the Census, a move CPAG has previously raised concerns about .
“The re-design of how we measure material hardship seems prompted by the scrapping of the Census rather than responding to callings of on-the-ground realities from affected communities. The methodology update should signal a concern for democratic input of how and what data is being collected in Aotearoa to measure child poverty.”
Importance of good child poverty data
Measuring material hardship tells us how many children are missing out on essentials such as food, clothing, heating or stable housing. Under the Child Poverty Reduction Act, this data is used to track whether life is improving for our most vulnerable tamariki.
Good data is also a key accountability tool: it allows the public to see whether governments are meeting the targets they have set for reducing child poverty, including the goal of halving it by 2028.
The latest figures from Stats NZ (year ended June 2024) show more than 156,000 children living in material hardship, about 13.4% of all children. This is slightly higher than in 2018 (13.3%), when the Act was introduced, despite improvements recorded over the years in between.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/16/cpag-concerned-over-changes-in-how-child-poverty-is-measured/

Posted on

Marine Environment – Historic Global Ocean Treaty enters into force – Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

The Global Ocean Treaty, dubbed one of the most significant pieces of environmental legislation in decades, will officially enter into force this Saturday [January 17], paving the way for global ocean protection on the High Seas.
Less than one percent of international waters, which make up the majority of the world’s oceans, are currently highly protected. The new Treaty will provide the legal tool to make vast high seas sanctuaries around the globe possible, protected areas that will help mitigate the climate crisis, halt biodiversity collapse and safeguard food security for the billions who depend on the ocean.
Greenpeace Aotearoa campaigner Ellie Hooper says: “Today we are celebrating this historic moment, the result of decades of tireless campaigning to protect the high seas which are home to a vast array of ocean life from coral reefs to whales and seabirds.
“But now the essential work of creating protected areas on the high seas must begin. This includes in the Tasman Sea, between Aotearoa and Australia, where New Zealand remains the only country still carrying out destructive bottom trawling – degrading this hugely biodiverse ecosystem and standing in the way of ocean protection.
“We are calling on the New Zealand Government to back the creation of global ocean sanctuaries and stop destructive bottom trawling from where it does the most harm.
“Time and time again we’ve seen how industrial fishing interests seek to water down ocean protection, fighting to keep destroying the ocean ecosystems that we all rely on. To make the most of this historic win the Government must get on with real work of creating protection, not pandering to the fishing industry who prioritise profit over the health of our blue planet.”
The New Zealand public is already onside. Recent polling shows 79% of New Zealanders support the creation of a global ocean sanctuary in the South Pacific Tasman Sea and 78% want bottom trawling banned in this area.
“The time for action is now – NZ must not delay getting behind this historic Treaty that could revolutionise the way the oceans are managed,” says Hooper. New Zealand has not yet ratified the Global Oceans Treaty – also known as the High Seas Treaty- but was an early signer in 2023, signalling the intention to ratify.
The Treaty coming into force marks the beginning of a crucial countdown to protect 30% of the world’s ocean by 2030. Scientists have consistently said protecting a third of the world’s oceans by 2030 is critical to mitigating the dual climate and biodiversity crises.
Increasing High Seas protection from under 1% as it currently stands to 30% in the next four years will require governments to co-operate, be bold, and protect large areas of the ocean high in biodiversity values.
Greenpeace Aotearoa is urging the New Zealand Government to back the creation of a sanctuary in the Tasman Sea, which is earmarked as one of the first places in the world to be protected in a global ocean sanctuary. Seamounts rise from deep and warm and cool currents collide in the Tasman Sea creating a globally significant area that is exceptionally abundant, from ancient corals to migrating whales, rare sharks and high diversity of fish and concentration of seabirds.
“We’ve seen for ourselves the beauty and life that thrives in the Tasman Sea”, says Hooper who led a scientific expedition to explore seamounts in the region last year.
“We also saw the impacts of bottom trawling, observing vast amounts of destroyed coral rubble along known trawl tracks. To protect the ocean for the future, New Zealand must stop bottom trawling and back meaningful ocean protection.”

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/16/marine-environment-historic-global-ocean-treaty-enters-into-force-greenpeace/

Posted on

Lifestyle – From Resolutions to Real Life: Building Habits That Last Beyond January – Exercise NZ

Source: Exercise NZ

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting to make a fresh start in January,”

“But all-or-nothing goals, extreme routines, and relying purely on motivation can set people up to struggle. Real change comes from consistency, support, and doing what’s realistic for your life.”

“If your goal improves your quality of life, not just your body, you’re far more likely to stick with it,”

As gyms fill and motivation peaks in the first weeks of January, Exercise New Zealand is encouraging Kiwis to rethink how they approach New Year’s resolutions, focusing less on short-term motivation and more on sustainable habits that last.

The issue isn’t goal-setting itself, but how goals are set.

While New Year’s resolutions are popular, many don’t stick. An international study cited by Scientific American suggests more than 80% of resolutions are abandoned by February, often because goals are too ambitious, too rigid, or unsupported.

It’s encouraging that most resolutions are centred on improving health and wellbeing (79%). However, many people (62%) report feeling external pressure to change rather than being guided by personal readiness or enjoyment. This presents an opportunity: when goals are self-driven, realistic, and supported, they are far more likely to lead to lasting, positive change.

“There’s nothing wrong with wanting to make a fresh start in January,” says ExerciseNZ Chief Executive Richard Beddie. “But all-or-nothing goals, extreme routines, and relying purely on motivation can set people up to struggle. Real change comes from consistency, support, and doing what’s realistic for your life.”

Motivation fades, habits last

Motivation is powerful at the start of the year, but it’s often temporary. When life gets busy, stress increases, or results don’t come quickly, motivation can drop, and so can resolutions.

That’s why focusing on small, repeatable actions rather than dramatic transformations is more effective. Real progress comes from habits that fit everyday life, ones that still feel achievable in February, sustainable in June, and part of the routine by next December.

In practice, goals are more likely to last when they are personally meaningful, clear but flexible, built gradually, focused on consistency rather than intensity, and supported by others.

“If your goal improves your quality of life, not just your body, you’re far more likely to stick with it,” says Beddie.

Three simple ways to make your New Year’s resolution stick

To get started, ExerciseNZ shares three simple, research-informed tips to help turn New Year’s intentions into lasting habits.

Do it with others: Exercising with a friend, group, or support network helps build accountability and makes movement more enjoyable.
Choose movement you enjoy: People are far more likely to stay active when they enjoy what they’re doing, rather than forcing routines they don’t like.
Start small and be specific: Breaking goals into clear actions, such as exercising twice a week. This makes habits easier to repeat and maintain.

As 2026 begins, ExerciseNZ encourages New Zealanders to prioritise regular physical activity to support physical health, mental wellbeing, and long-term quality of life. Moving beyond short-term resolutions, support from local gyms and registered exercise professionals can help people incorporate movement into daily life and sustain safe, effective participation over time.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/15/lifestyle-from-resolutions-to-real-life-building-habits-that-last-beyond-january-exercise-nz/