Category: AM-NC

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SUDAN: Children killed on first day of Ramadan must spur urgent action to protect every child – Save the Children

Source: Save the Children

As families across Sudan marked the first day of Ramadan, children were reportedly among those killed in renewed violence, underscoring the urgent need for international action to protect children after nearly three years of war, Save the Children said.
At least 18 people, including children, were killed on Wednesday when a drone strike hit a water collection point in Umm Rusum village, located in Al-Sunut locality of West Kordofan State, according to local media .The latest deaths came as a United Nations fact-finding mission said that atrocities committed in El-Fasher in Darfur bore the hallmarks of genocide, with the report documenting widespread and systematic attacks against civilians, including women and children.
Save the Children said urgent action is needed to protect civilians especially children, with Sudan’s children remain trapped in a relentless war that has shattered communities, caused the world’s largest displacement crisis impacting 15 million people, and pushed families to the brink of famine.
Francesco Lanino, Deputy Country Director of Programmes and Operations for Save the Children in Sudan, said: “Ramadan should be a time of peace, reflection and family. Instead, children in Sudan are being killed in their homes and in places where they should be safe. No child should ever pay the price for a conflict they did not create.
“Reports from the UN about the scale of atrocities in El Fasher should shock the conscience of the world. Children are not only caught in the crossfire but in many cases, they are directly targeted or suffer the long-term consequences of displacement, hunger and trauma. At the very least parties to the conflict must commit to an immediate ceasefire during the holy month of Ramdan, allowing families to observe this sacred period in safety and dignity. This should serve as first step toward a sustained and meaningful cessation of hostilities.
“Sudan’s children cannot wait. The international community must move beyond statements of concern and take concrete action to protect children’s lives, uphold international law and ensure those responsible for atrocities are held to account.”
Save the Children has worked in Sudan since 1983 and is currently supporting children and their families across Sudan providing health, nutrition, education, child protection and food security and livelihoods support. 
About Save the Children NZ:
Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.
Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/23/sudan-children-killed-on-first-day-of-ramadan-must-spur-urgent-action-to-protect-every-child-save-the-children/

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NZDF monitoring fuel sheen reported near Manawanui wreck

Source: Radio New Zealand

UAS footage of RNZN Divers surveying the area around HMNZS Manawanui on the Southern Coast of Upulo as part of Op Resolution. New Zealand Defence Force

New Zealand’s Defence Force is continuing to monitor the wreck of the sunken HMNZS Manawanui after a fuel sheen was reported off the south coast of Samoa’s island of Upolu.

NZDF personnel and divers from Samoa have found no evidence of a leak or sheen, and water samples have been taken for analysis.

“The absence of a sheen and any evidence of a leak suggests there was either an intermittent discharge of trapped fuel from a pump or pipe, or the sheen originated from another source such as a passing vessel. Events such as this will occur from time to time as the wreck settles and begins to degrade and as traffic in the vicinity of the wreck begins to normalise,” NZDF said in a statement.

It said salvors hired by NZDF concluded the removal of fuel and other pollutants from the wreck of the Manawanui.

“The salvors hired to pump the fuel and other pollutants from the ship following the sinking were very thorough in searching all tanks as well as compartments that could likely contain fuel. In March 2025 at the conclusion of salvage work to remove diesel fuel and other pollutants we advised that there may be a very small amount of residual fuel remaining somewhere in the vessel.

“An NZDF engineering report concluded that if there was fuel remaining on the vessel it would be trace amounts only, and if any escaped it would likely quickly disperse through wind and wave action.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/nzdf-monitoring-fuel-sheen-reported-near-manawanui-wreck/

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Employment Trends – Employers anticipate salary growth with renewed economic confidence – Robert Half

Source: Robert Half
 

  • 84% of Kiwi employers say the economic outlook in New Zealand will positively impact their approach to setting salaries for staff in the next 12 months. 
  • The top 3 factors that affect a company’s willingness to increase a salary offer during candidate negotiations: people management responsibilities (38%), the candidate possesses highly specialised skills (37%), and filling an urgent hiring need (36%). 
  • If they are unable to offer a candidate a salary within their expected range, the perks and benefits they do not currently offer but would be willing to offer to secure the candidate are (higher) performance bonus (53%), (more) professional development opportunities (50%), and (more) flexible work arrangements (48%). 

 

Auckland, 23 February 2026 – Optimism in New Zealand’s economic outlook is translating into intentions for salary growth among employers in 2026, the newly released 2026 Robert Half Salary Guide reveals. 

New independent research by specialised recruiter Robert Half also reveals that all surveyed businesses (100%) are open to engage in salary negotiations this year and willing to offer alternative perks and benefits if salary expectations cannot be met.  

Potential pay rises loom 

Renewed economic confidence is driving pay optimism among Kiwi businesses as 84% say the economic outlook in New Zealand will positively impact their approach to setting salaries for staff in the next 12 months, likely leading to salary increases. Only 12% say the economic outlook will have a negative impact on salaries for staff, while 3% say there will be no impact and 1% are unsure.  

“After several years in which salary conversations were deprioritised, pay rises and offering higher starting salaries are firmly back on the agenda for many organisations. Businesses recognise that remaining competitive for top talent requires intentional investment in their workforce,” says Megan Alexander, Managing Director at Robert Half. 

The traits that tip the scales in salary talks 

With competition for skilled professionals intensifying, employers are becoming more strategic about which candidate qualities justify premium pay. When asked about the top factors that affect their willingness to increase a salary offer during candidate negotiations, employers cited several key areas: 

 

Factor 

% of employers 

People management responsibilities 

38% 

The candidate possesses highly specialised skills 

37% 

Fill an urgent hiring need 

36% 

Years’ experience 

33% 

Scarcity of qualified talent in the market 

33% 

The seniority of the role 

32% 

Independent survey commissioned by Robert Half among 250 employers in New Zealand. 

The priorities for Australian employers, besides the need for specialised skills, are slightly different from Kiwi employers. The top three factors that affect employers’ willingness to increase a salary offer during negotiations in Australia were the candidate possessing highly specialised skills (52%), years of experience (44%), and available budget (40%). 

“We’re seeing a consistent trend in how employers assess value during salary negotiations. Companies consider a range of factors, with technical expertise, specialised skills, and strong soft skills often carrying the most weight. 

“While many employers were cautious about stretching offers last year, the combination of a tightening skills market and a shifting economy is creating a more optimistic outlook for 2026. Even with organisations continuing to remain mindful of budget constraints, we are seeing greater flexibility and a growing willingness to offer more for the right talent,” says Alexander. 

Plan B when salaries fall short 

If a candidate’s salary expectations cannot be met, all (100%) surveyed employers indicate they would offer alternative benefits to secure the hire, including: 

 

  • (Higher) performance bonus (53%) 
  • (More) professional development opportunities (50%) 
  • (More) flexible work arrangements (48%) 
  • (More) stock options (40%) 
  • Insurance program (36%) 
  • More paid time off (34%) 
  • A one-time signing bonus (25%) 

 

“While competitive pay remains a cornerstone of talent attraction, non‑financial incentives can be equally influential in negotiations. Employers are embracing more creative and flexible options to meet candidate expectations, particularly when hiring pressures are high and salary budgets are tight,” concludes Alexander. 

In-demand roles for 2026 

Robert Half’s 2026 Salary Guide reveals the permanent roles that are in highest demand in finance and accounting, and IT and technology this year, along with their starting salaries. 

 

Finance and accounting 

Role 

25th percentile 

50th percentile 

75th percentile 

Head of Finance 

$200,000 

$235,000 

$270,000 

Financial Controller 

$180,000 

$215,000 

$250,000 

Management Accountant 

$120,000 

$140,000 

$160,000 

Finance Business Partner 

$120,000 

$130,000 

$150,000 

Financial Accountant 

$105,000 

$115,000 

$130,000 

Accounts Assistant 

$75,000 

$80,000 

$85,000 

Accounts Payable Officer 

$65,000 

$75,000 

$85,000 

 

IT and technology 

Role 

25th percentile 

50th percentile 

75th percentile 

AI Tech Lead 

$180,000 

$200,000 

$220,000 

Senior Software Developer 

$125,000 

$140,000 

$150,000 

Data Engineer 

$125,000 

$135,000 

$150,000 

Security Engineer 

$120,000 

$135,000 

$150,000 

Systems Engineer 

$110,000 

$120,000 

$130,000 

IT Support 

$72,000 

$75,000 

$80,000 

 

Notes

About the Robert Half Salary Guide 

The Robert Half Salary Guide is the most comprehensive and authoritative resource on starting salaries and recruitment trends in finance and accounting and IT and technology. The results and insights of the Robert Half Salary Guide are based on comprehensive analyses, local job placements, local expertise and independent research of industry executives. 

 

Starting salaries are not a one-size-fits-all, which is why they are separated into three percentiles. The percentiles account for differences in experience, skills, professional certifications, demand for the role and the size/complexity of the company that’s hiring.  

 

25th percentile 

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is building necessary skills. 

 

50th percentile 

The candidate has moderate experience in the role, meets most requirements or has equivalent transferable skills, and may also have relevant certifications. 

 

75th percentile 

The candidate has extensive experience and advanced skills for the role, and may also have specialised certifications. 

 

Note: The 25th percentile is not the lowest end of the salary range, and the 75th percentile is not the highest or a cap. Robert Half provides these percentiles because they are the ones most commonly used. Salaries outside of this range occur far less frequently and, as a result, are not included in the Robert Half Salary Guide.  

 

About the research 

The study is developed by Robert Half and was conducted online in October 2025 by an independent research company of 250 finance, accounting, and IT and technology hiring managers. Respondents are drawn from a sample of SMEs as well as large private, publicly-listed, and public sector organisations across New Zealand. This survey is part of the international workplace survey, a questionnaire about job trends, talent management, and trends in the workplace.   

 

About Robert Half 

Robert Half is the global, specialised talent solutions provider that helps employers find their next great hire and jobseekers uncover their next opportunity. Robert Half offers both contract and permanent placement services, and is the parent company of Protiviti, a global consulting firm.  Robert Half New Zealand has an office in Auckland. More information on roberthalf.com/nz. 

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/employment-trends-employers-anticipate-salary-growth-with-renewed-economic-confidence-robert-half/

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Northland Regional Council media briefs 23/02/26

Source: Northland Regional Council

POPLAR AND WILLOW ORDERING AND FIELD DAYS
Northland Regional Council’s (NRC’s) poplar and willow ordering season is now open. A contestable fund is available to subsidise the planting of poplars and willows for erosion control on highly erodible grazed land.
Poplars and willows provide an effective solution to erosion. They are rapid growers and their root systems stabilise slopes, protecting vulnerable hill country. They also provide on-farm benefits, offering shade and fodder for stock during dry periods and can be planted as poles directly into pasture without losing productive paddock.
The best time of year to plant poplar and willow poles is during the winter months of June, July, and early August, but time is needed in advance for ordering, delivery and creating a site plan. Poles can be ordered through NRC from now until the end of May.
NRC’s Land Management team will be at Northland Field Days in Dargaville from 26-28 February. Meet the team on the NRC stand to find out more or contact them on 0800 002 002 or landadmin@nrc.govt.nz.
HIKURANGI LINK AND SUPERGOLD CARD
Hikurangi and Whangārei residents are reminded that the Hikurangi Link public bus service now accepts SuperGold cards.
The Hikurangi Link, one of Northland Regional Council’s regional BusLink services, runs from Whangārei to Hikurangi, via Te Kamo, and back every Tuesday and Thursday.
The morning service departs Whangārei Rose Street bus hub at 9.15am, calling at Te Kamo and Hikurangi before returning to Rose Street at 10.25am. The afternoon service departs Rose Street at 1.30pm.
SuperGold card and Community Service card concessions are available on this service. SuperGold card holders travel for free during off-peak hours 9am-3pm on weekdays. Community Service card holders get a 50% discount off the adult fare, at all times.
This is a cash only service, a single fare is $3.50. Please try to have correct change for the driver
Timetables and route information are at buslink.co.nz 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/23/northland-regional-council-media-briefs-23-02-26/

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Update: Crash, Orewa

Source: New Zealand Police

Northbound lanes have now reopened following an earlier crash on State Highway 1, Orewa this afternoon.

Emergency services were called at around 12.18pm after receiving reports of a three-vehicle crash.

Diesel was spilt onto the road as a result of the crash, which has now been cleared.

One person received moderate injuries and was transported to hospital in a stable condition.

Police would like to thank motorists for their patience while the scene was cleared.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/update-crash-orewa/

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Runner Sam Ruthe rewrites the record books

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sam Ruthe’s run at the Potts Classic in January broke the under-17, U18, U19, and U20 national 800m records. Kerry Marshall / www.photosport.nz

Runner Sam Ruthe has officially rewritten the record book, as he now holds every under-20 accolade possible.

Having already claimed record times from 800-5000m, there was one distance evading his near-perfect resume, the 3000m.

However, Ruthe completed the feat on Monday afternoon (NZT), as he comfortable eclipsed the time of 7:54.30 set by Liam Black in 2021, shaving more than 10 seconds off the record at the Saucony Battle in Boston.

Ruthe crossed the finish in 7:43.16, coming second behind American Ernest Cheruiyot.

Ruth shot out of the blocks quickly and was just .03 seconds behind Cheruiyot at the first 200m.

He dropped back to third after 800m, before he and Cheruiyot were separated by 0.24 seconds with 400m to go.

Ruth would produce his slowest 200m on the final stretch, though it was still more than fast enough to take the record.

Boston University is a happy running ground for Ruthe, the site of his historic 3:48 mile.

Ruthe became the youngest athlete to ever run a mile quicker than 3m 50s and took the New Zealand men’s record from Sir John Walker, which he held for 44 years.

Sam Ruthe’s complete crown of under-20 records:

  • 800m – 1:45.86
  • 1000m – 2:17.82
  • 1500m – 3:33.25
  • Mile – 3:48.88 (NZ Mile Record)
  • 3000m – 7:43.16
  • 5000m – 13:40.48

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/runner-sam-ruthe-rewrites-the-record-books/

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Man charged over indecent assaults of Auckland students, teacher

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / REECE BAKER

A man in his 60s has been charged over what police say were indecent assaults of high school students and a staff member on Auckland’s North Shore.

It was the alleged assault of the teacher, last Monday, that led to further charges relating to incidents against students last year.

The staff member was on duty outside the school on the afternoon of 16 February, relieving Waitematā East Area Commander Mike Rickards said.

“A man has allegedly indecently assaulted the teacher before she confronted him,” he said.

“The alarm has been raised when other teachers saw this confrontation and immediately contacted 111.”

Rickards said police responded with urgency and found the man in the Milford area, and he was arrested soon after.

The 64-year-old was charged with doing an indecent act.

But that arrest sparked further police enquiries into a series of similar events in November last year.

“An extensive investigation was carried out to identify a man who had allegedly carried out similar behaviour, directed towards several high school students on the same day,” Rickards said.

That day was 11 November, and nobody was found at the time.

But on Friday, detectives laid two more indecent assault charges against the man.

“The students did the right thing at the end of last year and reported the offending, this information informed the school network so on Monday staff sprang into action.”

He has also been charged with assault over a separate incident allegedly involving an elderly woman at St Lukes, also in November 2025.

The man has appeared in the North Shore District Court and will appear again on new charges this Friday.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/man-charged-over-indecent-assaults-of-auckland-students-teacher/

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Hipikins speech like ‘lump of jelly’ filled with sentiment, says Willis

Source: Radio New Zealand

Chris Hipkins’ State of the Nation speech read like a “lump of jelly” filled with sentiment, but no concrete plans, and that Chat GPT could have written it, says Nationals’ deputy leader.

Nicola Willis is calling for a contest of “actual ideas” with the Labour leader, because if the party does not come up with policy, “the Greens and Te Pāti Māori are ready to go”.

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters also criticised Hipkins for one of the “most boring State of the Nation speeches in recorded history”, and ACT leader David Seymour called it “featherweight”.

Hipkins made the speech in Auckland today, taking aim at the government’s cost of living and climate policies. He did not announce any new policy, but repeated his promise that the public would see a “different” Labour to 2023.

Willis said she was more sorrowful than angry in response, hoping she would be able to debate a new policy idea from the Labour Party.

“Politics at its best is a contest of ideas about how we address the challenges our country is facing and how we move forward,” she said.

National deputy leader Nicola Willis RNZ / Mark Papalii

She expected an alternative set of ideas from the leader of the opposition who was “talking down New Zealand at every turn”.

“Instead, his speech read like a lump of jelly filled with platitudes and sentiment but no concrete plans.”

She referenced policy ideas from the Greens and Te Pāti Māori who had “laid out their plans”, saying “policy loves a vacuum”.

Willis said ahead of the 2023 election, National had presented the frame of an alternative tax approach, and a five-point “inflation busting plan”.

Taking a swipe at the media, she said Hipkins had not been “accountable at all” on his spending, borrowing or taxation plans, and he should be able to give New Zealanders a “broad indication”, rather than waiting for Budget 2026 to be released.

Going into the budget, he should have some clear parameters, she said, asking whether he thought debt should be higher and he wanted to collect more tax.

“Hipkins just doesn’t have any ideas. And you are all letting him get away with a really facile approach.”

Peters took to social media to criticise the speech as “boring”, calling the Labour leader Chris “softly” Hipkins, and saying he may as well have just sent out a press release.

“He couldn’t even fill a smoko room with a public meeting so had to tack on to a chamber of commerce hosted event.”

Peters said there was no new policy, no new plan and no new announcements. Similarly, he referenced the Greens and Te Pāti Māori suggesting Hipkins may be waiting for those parties to “fill the gaps.”

Hipkins talked about health, housing, and the economy Peters said, but New Zealanders don’t forget the “disaster” he delivered last time, including “debt, massive immigration, massive increases in crime.”

“Good luck to the mainstream media trying to dissect his ‘say-nothing’ speech,” finished Peters.

Seymour also weighed in, saying Hipkins’ speech was not lightweight, it was featherweight, and any politician could have read it out.

Seymour said Hipkins did not present any plan to pay for any promise, “underneath the smooth words there are no solutions, just new problems”.

“Hipkins’ examples of affordable policies included ‘free’ GP visits and a new Auckland harbour crossing without tolls on the existing bridge. But he can’t make the cost of those policies disappear. Someone has to pay, he just hopes Kiwis won’t ask who.”

He said the most glaring omission was how Labour would fund the “roughly $13bn hole created by its commitment to reverse the government’s pay equity changes”.

“We’re left wondering whether Hipkins plans to raise taxes, borrow more, or cut services elsewhere.

“Hipkins didn’t even mention crime, and not a word on Labour’s view of the Treaty and how to keep the country united.”

When Hipkins was asked why he did not announce any new policy, he told reporters he had restated Labour’s priorities, but said a lot can happen in six months and he didn’t want to make any promises he would have to change.

“I’m not saying that we won’t be making any promises before the election. We absolutely will, but it’ll be closer to the election once we know what we can deliver.”

He said it was responsible to wait and see what state the economy was in heading into the election.

“Remember, Nicola Willis and Christopher Luxon said they were both going to bring down grocery prices. Now they’re saying the promises to bring down grocery prices would be irresponsible. Well, which is it? They actually promised to do that, and now they’re not delivering on it.”

He said a State of the Nation speech was about reflecting on “where we’re at now”, the challenges facing the country and the direction “we can go as a country”.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/hipikins-speech-like-lump-of-jelly-filled-with-sentiment-says-willis/

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Christchurch father and son in hospital after ‘bloodbath’ dog attack

Source: Radio New Zealand

Emergency services at a house in Bryndwr, Christchurch. Sam Sherwood / RNZ

A dog attack that left a Christchurch father and his teenage son in hospital resembled a bloodbath, a friend of the dogs’ owner says.

The father and son were visiting a friend in Bevin Place in Bryndwr on Saturday afternoon when the boy was attacked by two American Bulldog cross dogs.

The boy aged in his early teens was seriously injured, while his father suffered critical injuries trying to protect his son.

The dogs’ owner also sustained minor injuries during the attack.

On Monday police said a 40-year-old woman had been summonsed to court under the Dog Control Act in relation to the attack.

A friend of the dogs’ owner, who did not want to be identified, said the attack came out of nowhere and everyone was in shock.

“I know what the risk factors are and these dogs don’t fit the description, they really don’t,” she said.

“This is not a shit owner, this is not shit dogs. This is just a really, really horrible event. I can’t put it down to any one thing. The kid isn’t someone who’s going to be kicking the dogs or anything, he just ran outside.”

The woman said the boy knew the dogs, who were sisters and had lived with their owner since they were born about four years ago.

“She’s a good dog owner. They’re usually very obedient, they’re respectful dogs, they ask before they eat or get on the couch or anything,” she said.

“The property is well secured. Everything is set up to succeed and for some reason everything escalated that day.”

After the dogs started barking at the boy, his father and the owner rushed to help him, the friend said.

“They ran out there yelling at the dogs to stop and that might have enhanced the excitement at the time,” she said.

“Then they managed to separate the dogs off and confine them and started moving towards the front of the property to get the kid out of the front gate to safety.”

The woman said the dogs escaped and again rushed at the boy and that was when the man was grievously injured while trying to protect his son.

“He got him on to the bonnet of the car and he was trying to fend the dogs off and because he was in between them and the kid, they got him,” she said.

“All the bites were on the legs.

“Our friend, he’s the one classed as critical, he’s actually fine but it nicked a vein so there was quite a lot of blood coming out. It looked like something terrible had happened. It was a bloodbath.”

The woman said the pair remained in hospital and might need surgery.

“They’re in good spirits and they’re recovering and stable,” she said.

She said dogs’ owner had apologised to the boy’s father and he had replied, “what are you sorry for? This isn’t your fault”.

“The kid’s a lovely kid, he’s a nice guy. Everything is just a really shit, horrible situation,” she said.

“I was just speaking to him before and he was good. His son was singing songs and in high spirits.”

The woman was questioning how the attack happened.

“The owner’s devastated. She’s devastated for her friend and his son, and her dogs,” she said.

“They’re family pets. She’s got a one-year-old child and they’ve always been really great with the kid. They’re used to children.

“There was an incident a few months ago where police were searching a neighbouring property and they wanted to come over on to this property to search for whoever they were chasing and they pepper-sprayed the dogs and ever since then they’ve really not been the same. They’ve been more reactive.

“I can’t understand why once they were confined they still felt the need to break out again and neither does their owner. She’s devastated and she’s pretty realistic about the fact that she’s not going to try to fight to keep the dogs. Realistically they’re going to have to be in [the pound] for a long time and it costs per day to have them in there and the chances of them ever saying, ‘yeah, good idea, keep the dogs’ is probably never going to be high and she’s got a baby to think about.

“So she’s probably going to do the really hard thing and it’s really sad because you can’t even say goodbye to them and I know that sounds probably insane to anybody else because these are the dogs that did the attack but to us they’re family. We know them really well, they’re not horrible dogs.”

Christchurch City Council said it had not previously received complaints about the dogs.

“The dogs have been impounded pending an ongoing police investigation,” the council said.

“The owner may voluntarily surrender the dogs for euthanasia or on conviction the court must grant an order for destruction unless the owner can demonstrate exceptional circumstances as to why the dogs should not be destroyed.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/23/christchurch-father-and-son-in-hospital-after-bloodbath-dog-attack/

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Youth arrested following aggravated robbery in Palmerston North

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have arrested and charged a 16-year-old male following an aggravated robbery at a commercial premises in Palmerston North at the weekend.

Detective Senior Sergeant Dave Thompson says at around 2pm on Saturday 21 February, Police were called to the premises on The Square after a person armed with a knife and hammer entered the store.

“Using the hammer, the alleged offender smashed one of the display cabinets, taking several phones before running out of the store.

“Police were able to identify the youth through various avenues of inquiry, including available CCTV footage.“

The youth was located and arrested yesterday.

He has been referred to Youth Aid.

“These types of crimes are incredibly frightening for those working in the store at the time, and this robbery is no different.

“We understand other store owners would have been unnerved by this occurring. We are hopeful that the quick arrest will go some way to provide reassurance that Police will take prompt action to hold those responsible to account.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/23/youth-arrested-following-aggravated-robbery-in-palmerston-north/

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Stolen historic war medals found during search, Palmerston North

Source: New Zealand Police

Police want to find the owners of four historic war medals, that were recovered during a search warrant in Palmerston North.

Police conducted a search warrant today, at an address in Kelvin Grove. During the search, the pictured medals were found and recovered, and are believed to be stolen.

The medals include a 1939-1945 star, an Atlantic star, a Burma star, and the 1939-1945 war medal.

Police believe these hold significant sentimental value and would like to return them to their rightful owner.

If the medals belong to you, or you know someone who is missing their medals, please get in touch, either online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 and click “update report”, or by calling 105.

Please quote file number 260215/1202.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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Million dollar pay day for golfer Ryan Fox

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand golfer Ryan Fox. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

It was a top 10 finish for Auckland golfer Ryan Fox on the PGA Tour.

Fox carded a final round four under par 67 to finish at 12 under and in a tie for seventh at the Genesis Invitational in California.

He started the day in a share of ninth and opened with an eagle on the first hole before mixing the rest of his round with four birdies and two bogeys.

American Jacob Bridgeman won the $33 million tournament at the Riviera Golf Course in Los Angeles by one shot.

It is another good result for Fox on the PGA Tour this year after scoring top 25 finishes at both the Phoenix Open and the Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

He pockets $1 million for today’s result, which takes his season earnings to $1.4 million.

The result will help the Kiwi world number 49 to improve his FedEx Cup standing to inside the top 25.

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NZ Rugby agrees to new deal with players

Source: Radio New Zealand

The agreement includes the expansion of the medical, life and trauma insurance cover to include Aupiki players. ©INPHO/Billy Stickland / PHOTOSPORT

A greater investment in health and well-being, and rewards for long service are among the changes to the new collective agreement between players and New Zealand Rugby.

The New Zealand Rugby Players Association (RPA) and NZR have settled on a new three-year agreement for professional rugby in Aotearoa.

The agreement covers 1 January of this year through until 31 December 2028.

It includes the expansion of the medical, life and trauma insurance cover to include Aupiki players, while players will continue to receive 36.56 percent of player generated revenue over the term.

With offshore movement still a major drain on the Kiwi talent pool, the agreement will see increased annual investment for player retention, personal development, education, financial planning and player health and safety.

There is also the allocation of the player payment pool to ensure all professional players receive additional player payments and benefits.

Women will have greater incentive to stay in the country, with a new Super Rugby Aupiki contracting model seeing hub-based players paid $25,000 with campaign-only players getting $20,000.

Longevity will also be rewarded, with additional payments based on length of service for Sevens, in Super Rugby Pacific and for NPC players.

To harness future talent, a new scholarship fund will be established, co-designed by NZR with the parties providing up to $500,000 in 2026 and $1m per year in 2027 and 2028.

RPA chief executive Rob Nichol said the new Partnership Agreement was an influential turning point.

“This Partnership is a powerful and progressive agreement and delivers significant investment in the personal development and education, retention and long-term support of our professional players. It will position us well in a constantly evolving and competitive landscape.”

NZR interim chief executive Steve Lancaster said professional players were a huge factor in the success of the business and the game at every level.

“It’s critical that we are aligned with the RPA and act together in the best interests of our game and its stakeholders, and this new partnership reflects that commitment. It’s particularly pleasing to increase the investment in the Black Ferns, Black Ferns Sevens and Super Rugby Aupiki, and to commit to a greater connection between our professional players and the wider rugby community.”

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Rugby: Tevita Ofa hopes to follow in Julian Savea’s footsteps

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tevita Ofa wants to emulate the impact Savea had on his younger self on the next generation. Brett Phibbs / www.photosport.nz

Shaking his idol Julian Savea’s hand was a surreal moment for an 11-year-old Tevita Ofa.

Now in 2026, he calls him team-mate.

“He was my favourite player growing up. He was awesome in that 2015 World Cup and they ended up bringing the trophy to where my primary had a rippa rugby competition and I got to meet him,” Ofa said.

“I rocked up on stage, and he was there. I was just buzzing. I was just so grateful that I got to shake his hand and now to be in the same environment as him, being able to see him now, it’s surreal. I still hold those memories close.”

Initially star-struck, Ofa is now able to call on his hero for advice.

“He’s awesome, always keeping me honest, always holding me accountable and then he’s always there to pick me up when I do make those mistakes.

“He’s one you can go to. He’s always open. He’s not afraid to help the young boys out. So, whenever I need to ask questions, I’ll go to him first.”

The electric Counties winger wants to emulate the impact Savea had on his younger self, on the next generation.

“I hope I can have that influence on someone, especially the young Polynesian kids coming through.”

Ofa plays his NPC rugby for Counties Manukau. Photosport

Ofa grew up in Manurewa with four rugby-mad siblings.

“We always played rugby, whether it was at the park or out on the road, because we live on a dead-end, just wherever we could throw the pill around, we always had a pill in our hand.”

As well as Savea, Ofa was not short on legendary wingers to look up to, being schooled at Wesley College.

“Obviously, when you hear about Wesley, you hear about Jonah, so there’s another big inspiration.”

The younger Savea has also been instrumental in Ofa’s development, with Ardie’s spectacular season with Moana in 2025 lighting a fire under the franchise.

“Ardie’s pretty important in his own respect. But, we want to not only to prove a point to everybody else, but also to ourselves. We spoke about there’s going to be a big hole, but it’s on us to fill that hole.”

Having spent time with the Chiefs academy and development side, Ofa was given his shot at Super in 2025 by Tana Umaga.

“It means a lot. They gave me an opportunity when no one else would, I also get to represent my family and my parents. They migrated from the island, so I’m carrying a lot of people on my back, and I’m proud to carry that.”

He said it’s a special environment being surrounded by his Pasifika brothers.

“The culture here is second to none. All the boys here love to have a laugh. But when we get on the field, it’s all business, the boys know that when we get out there, we need to switch on, get our job done, and then when we get off, boys have a laugh, have a muck.”

Ofa enjoyed a strong rookie season, but was not content with his performance.

“I want to earn a starting spot in this team, whether that’s on the wing or in the centres. I want to come back stronger this year. I wasn’t satisfied with my performance last year. I felt like I didn’t really make the most of that opportunity that they gave me, but coming back this year, I promised I’d step up to everything I promised myself.”

As well as Savea, Ofa was not short on legendary wingers to look up to, being schooled at Wesley College. Photosport

Not just wanting to improve his own game, Ofa said Moana is determined to prove they can meet or better the standards set by Savea.

Ofa is eligible to represent three nations due to his Samoan mother and Tongan father.

As for whether he is chasing a black, red, or blue jersey?

“Growing up, I always admired the black jersey, but for me it’s just playing my best footy for Moana and then if those opportunities come, I’ll take it with both hands.”

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Man charged over indecent assaults near North Shore schools

Source: New Zealand Police

North Shore Police have arrested a man over alleged indecent assaults against high school students and a staff member in recent months.

Quick reporting meant units quickly caught up with the man in the Milford area last week.

Relieving Waitematā East Area Commander Mike Rickards says the staff member was on duty on the afternoon of 16 February, outside the school.

“A man has allegedly indecently assaulted the teacher before she confronted him,” he says.

“The alarm has been raised when other teachers saw this confrontation and immediately contacted 111.

“Our units responded urgently into the area, locating a man in the vicinity.”

The 64-year-old west Auckland man was soon arrested.

Inspector Rickards says the man has been charged with doing an indecent act.

Monday’s arrest resulted in enquiries progressing into a series of similar events on 11 November 2025.

“An extensive investigation was carried out to identify a man who had allegedly carried out similar behaviour, directed towards several high school students on the same day,” Inspector Rickards says.

Those enquiries were unable to locate the man responsible at the time.

On Friday, detectives from Waitematā East CIB laid two additional indecent assault charges against this man.

He has also been charged with assault over a separate incident allegedly involving an elderly woman at St Lukes, also in November 2025.

Inspector Rickards says: “I want to directly acknowledge the school community despite these awful events.

“The students did the right thing at the end of last year and reported the offending, this information informed the school network so on Monday staff sprang into action.”

The 64-year-old man has appeared in the North Shore District, and will reappear on new charges on 27 February.

ENDS.  

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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Baby died while nurse went on break, Health and Disability Commissioner says

Source: Radio New Zealand

Unsplash / RNZ composite

A slightly premature baby who died while the nurse caring for him was on a break should have been checked while she was away, an investigation has found.

The Health and Disability Commissioner report said the case highlighted the challenges of caring for late pre-term babies, those born between 34 and 36 weeks who often appeared healthy but faced increased risks.

The baby boy died at Auckland City Hospital, two days after he was born by a “semi-urgent” caesarean at 35 weeks, three days gestation.

His mother made a complaint to the commissioner, saying his care felt hurried, lacked empathy, and staff did not take her concerns seriously enough.

A feeding tube had also been put in without her consent, she said.

After 17 hours in the maternal complex care area, the baby was moved to a post-natal ward with his mother, rather than the neonatal intensive care unit(NICU).

He was having trouble feeding, and had a tube going from his mouth to his stomach. He was jaundiced and was being monitored for neonatal abstinence syndrome because his mother had been on opioids for a pain disorder.

He had been vomiting but his mother and medical staff disagreed on how much.

On the night the baby boy died, the nurse caring for him went on a one hour meal break and when she checked on him on her return, he had vomited heavily and was not breathing.

He could not be revived.

The nurse told the commissioner that when she left she told the midwives on the ward to check on the baby, however the midwives said she told them none of her patients needed anything while she was way.

Health NZ said, either way, it would not have been usual practice to check the baby hourly, and if he had needed very close monitoring he would have been in the NICU.

Deputy Commissioner Rose Wall said she extended her sympathies to baby A’s whānau for their extremely tragic loss and that the serious complaint needed to be carefully looked at.

Deputy Commissioner Rose Wall. LANCE LAWSON / SUPPLIED

An expert nurse who reviewed the case found the baby should have been checked at least once during the nurse’s break as “he was in an incubator under lights, he had an orogastric tube, he was premature, he was being observed for opioid withdrawal and his mother was sleeping heavily”, the report said.

There was also a breakdown in communication between staff and the baby’s mother about the feeding tube and more should have been done to inform her about why it was needed, the nurse said.

An expert doctor found the baby had been cared for and monitored appropriately by medical staff.

The commissioner agreed, saying the baby’s symptoms were monitored and managed appropriately.

But it found his patient rights had been breached by the failure to check on him during the nurse’s break and the “apparent lack of team work” between nurses and midwives on that shift.

“The investigation has highlighted the unique challenges of managing late pre-term infants postnatally and the importance of a team approach to care,” Wall’s report said.

Auckland City Hospital now had a transitional unit for late pre-term babies, as well as those who are being transferred from the NICU.

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Tonga to miss out on Moana match again

Source: Radio New Zealand

The franchise has again made the decision to cancel this year’s round nine fixture against the Chiefs in Tonga, initially scheduled to take place at Teufaiva Stadium. Andy Radka/ActionPress

The Pacific Islands will once again be without Super Rugby in 2026.

Tonga was set to host Moana Pasifika against the Chiefs on 11 April, but is now searching for an alternative venue due to a lack of funding.

Moana have played in the Pacific Islands just twice since their inception, in Apia in 2023 and in 2024 in Nuku’alofa.

Last year, they were forced to cancel a scheduled match in Tonga, citing logistical challenges.

The franchise has again made the decision to cancel this year’s round nine fixture against the Chiefs in Tonga, initially scheduled to take place at Teufaiva Stadium.

Moana Pasifika CEO, Debbie Sorensen, said that the decision came down to a lack of funding and sponsorship, despite the franchise’s best efforts to make the game happen.

“We have explored every avenue possible to try and make it work, but unfortunately, we were unable to secure the necessary sponsorship to bring this game to Tonga. The challenge we face is that we are not funded to bring any games to the Pacific region, and we believe we should be.

While we are heartbroken for our team, our fans, and especially our families in Tonga, we remain hopeful and deeply committed to growing the game in the region. We look forward to opportunities to bring world-class rugby to Tonga and other Pacific countries as soon as possible.”

Just last week, Moana coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga voiced his frustration at the lack of investment.

Moana Pasifika – a franchise born to provide more Pasifika players with another professional pathway – no longer receives any funding from World Rugby, a move which disillusions coach Tana Umaga.

“We just want to be on a level playing field around the funding that goes out to all the teams. You can just see what we bring to the competition, world rugby probably needs to help out a bit more. When you look around the world and how many Pacific island players are playing in all these different countries, you don’t want to lose sight of what we represent and what we can do for this game.”

Moana Pasifika is now working with Super Rugby Pacific, New Zealand Rugby and the Chiefs to find an alternative venue.

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Samson Aruwa, who rescued people from a fatal stairwell pile up at a Dunedin student flat recognised for courage

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sophia Crestani died at the Dunedin party in 2019. Facebook

The man who rescued people from a fatal stairwell pile up at a Dunedin student party is being recognised for his courageous actions.

University of Otago student Sophia Crestani died at the overcrowded party in October 2019, with a Coroner finding her death was a tragic, but likely preventable accident.

On the night, Samson Aruwa helped to free people from the crowd crush, carrying Crestani away from the pile.

The Commissioner of police, Richard Chambers, will present a Certificate of Appreciation to Aruwa on Thursday with Crestani’s parents and others in attendance.

Aruwa demonstrated exceptional courage, calmness, and leadership on the night, police said.

He was a pallbearer at Crestani’s funeral.

The Sophia Charter was launched in the wake of her death, with multiple organisations including the university and police pledging to support students and reduce harm.

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Labour’s Chris Hipkins to put ‘affordability’ at the heart of election year decisions

Source: Radio New Zealand

Labour leader Chris Hipkins has taken aim at the government’s cost of living and climate policies in his State of the Nation speech in Auckland.

Hipkins did not announce any new policy in the speech on Monday, repeating his promise that the public would see a “different” Labour to 2023.

“Labour didn’t get everything right last time – and some of you don’t hold back in telling me,” Hipkins told the Auckland Business Chamber audience.

“We tried to do too much, too fast, and we lost our focus.”

But what New Zealanders got instead, he said, was rising costs, job losses, and a shrinking economy.

“I’m not promising perfection. Where we make mistakes, I’ll take responsibility,” he said.

“But I am promising this: a government that puts the cost of living first. A government that partners with business to create jobs and raise wages. A government that invests in our people and backs our potential.”

Wary of Labour’s previous propensity to over-promise, Hipkins said he would put affordability at the heart of all decisions he made, and would expect ministers to do the same.

Chris Hipkins is speaking to the Auckland Business Chamber. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Hipkins said 2000 New Zealanders were leaving every week because they did not see a future here.

“I see young New Zealanders – smart, hardworking, full of potential – making calculations that no young person should have to do. Do I stay in the country I love? Or do I leave to build the life I’ve worked for?

“It breaks my heart. Because it means we are failing them. Not because they aren’t good enough for New Zealand. But because we haven’t made New Zealand good enough for them.”

Riffing off National’s slogan “Fixing the Basics, Building the Future”, Hipkins said New Zealanders would have a choice between two different futures.

He also called for stronger climate action.

“We can carry on treating each disaster as if it’s an isolated event, clean up and move on. Or we can recognise that the cost of inaction on climate change now far exceeds the cost of action.”

He did not give specifics on climate policy, but said New Zealand had an opportunity to be a “renewable energy superpower” but was instead being locked into a volatile global market.

“We would invest in the industries that cut emissions, build resilience, and create jobs. Because that is how you build a stronger economy. Not in spite of climate action, but because of it.”

Chris Hipkins. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

Hipkins confirmed Labour would oppose the government’s plans to build a new liquefied natural gas terminal, and would not go through with any deal if it entered government before a deal was done.

“We won’t add new charges onto people, like increasing every household’s power bill to pay for a gas import terminal, or tolling the Auckland Harbour Bridge to pay for a new crossing.”

The Infrastructure Commission modelled that tolling the existing bridge and a new Waitemata Crossing could bring in up to $9 billion.

The government has said a toll is something under consideration, but has not confirmed whether it would go ahead with it.

While no new policy was announced, Hipkins repeated Labour’s promises to fund three free GP visits a year, funded through a capital gains tax on investment and commercial property.

Hipkins pushed on energy plans

Hipkins was quizzed on energy policy by Auckland Business Chamber chief executive Simon Bridges (who, as former National leader, described himself as Hipkins’ one-time sparring partner).

Bridges, a former energy minister, agreed that New Zealand should be a renewable superpower, and asked Hipkins how he would tackle the country’s gentailers.

“Like governments, business also operates on social licence,” Hipkins said.

“The energy companies were reporting massive profits, but customers were seeing their bills go up.

“Those things aren’t going to wash with the public.”

Hipkins denied the oil and gas exploration ban, brought in by the previous government, was the reason power prices were as high as they are.

He said the government was asking the right question around how to make power bills cheaper, but had landed on the wrong answer.

“The more we’re reliant on fossil fuels, the more our energy bills are going to increase.”

Labour was the highest-polling party in the most recent RNZ-Reid Research poll, but the coalition would still have the numbers to return to government.

The party has seen two high-profile departures from its Māori caucus, with former Speaker Adrian Rurawhe already bowing out, and former Tāmaki Makaurau MP Peeni Henare also announcing his exit.

MP Peeni Henare has announced he’s leaving politics. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Henare will deliver his valedictory on 4 March.

State of the Nation speeches are a chance for party leaders to set out the priorities for the year ahead.

Earlier this year, Luxon confirmed the government would continue to run a tight Budget, and observed a “rupture” in the rules-based system.

Last weekend, ACT leader David Seymour took aim at “bureaucratic” governments that aren’t balancing their books, and confirmed ACT would again campaign on a smaller ministerial executive.

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters is set to deliver his speech in Tauranga in March.

The Greens, which prefer to call their address State of the Planet, are yet to confirm details of a 2026 speech.

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WNBA back on fit-again Charlisse Leger-Walker’s radar

Source: Radio New Zealand

Charlisse Leger-Walker of the UCLA Bruins. RONALD MARTINEZ

After an injury delay, Tall Fern Charlisse Leger-Walker’s dream of becoming just the second New Zealander to play in basketball’s WNBA is back on track.

A torn ACL sidelined Leger-Walker from United States college basketball for the majority of last season and forced her to withdraw from consideration for the 2024 WNBA draft.

“I had a full year basically to recover and the process itself is pretty daunting and it’s a long one but I’ve had a lot of great people to support me and great resources so I’m feeling really good right now.

“With these injuries it can be really hard not to just try and rush to get back and when it is taking over almost months and years that is a long time to sit out so I’m just really glad that I didn’t do that and really took extra time almost to make sure I was feeling strong enough to come back and play.”

The Commonwealth Games bronze medalist began her NCAA career with Washington State University but is now a graduate working towards her master’s after making the move to UCLA.

“I’m going into my sixth year of being over here in college, fourth year I guess playing, but it is completely different to anything we have in New Zealand in terms of the scale of just collegiate sports and how much they put into it.

“Obviously they have a lot of money in America and they like to put a lot into their sports and so coming over here it’s been really cool just to be a part of that system and being in games where you’re playing in front of thousands of people and you get free gear and you get free food and you kind of just get taken care of in a different way that unless you’re professional in New Zealand isn’t really a thing for uni students.”

Charlisse Leger-Walker playing for her college team. Supplied

The 24-year-old said collegiate athletes were treated well with support systems that ranged from massages to academic tutors but it was not an easy ride for the players.

“It is a lot on your body, it is a lot in terms of just your time we train for about three hours on court every day and then you add a lift session after that which is about an hour, we have film study where we watch our practices and other teams.

“Every day we meet with our coaches and then on top of that you also have your school your studies as well which takes up a big portion of your day so it is a lot to navigate and manage.

“But I still am very grateful just to be living this and having the opportunity to travel all around America and play some amazing teams.”

The next step in Leger-Walker’s career is to turn professional and she will “for sure” put her name forward for the competitive WNBA draft after her final college season wraps up this year.

“In terms of the draft basically anyone can put their name forward if you are eligible, which for girls you have to have completed at least three collegiate seasons, most people do four, or you have to be over the age of 21 but have played pro so you can go into the draft.

“Only 36 girls get drafted but because the rosters are so small only 12 people get named to a roster.

“There’s really only 144 spots to go on to the WNBA so when you break it down to those numbers it’s very hard to make teams.”

The first New Zealander to play in the WNBA, Megan Compain, is someone Leger-Walker has turned to for advice.

“She played with my mum (Leanne Walker) and I’ve had multiple conversations with her about her kind of journey into that and what she thought of it.

“Obviously it was a different time back then with the WNBA but I just think it speaks to that it is possible and I think it’s really cool seeing people in front of you who have done that and that’s one of the motivations for me too is just to remind people especially girls from New Zealand that it is possible.”

Leger-Walker had been focused on getting back playing for the UCLA Bruins before she considered whether she would be available for the Tall Ferns, a team she had played for since she was 16

“Wearing the Tall Ferns singlet is a big part of my journey and something I want to get back to but those conversations will happen a little bit later on.”

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