Category: AM-NC

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Waitangi Day – Palestine Forum of New Zealand – Waitangi Day Statement

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand – Te Huinga mō Pāhirītina I Aotearoa.

On Waitangi Day, we acknowledge Te Tiriti o Waitangi, the foundational agreement that affirms Indigenous sovereignty, justice, and the rights of Māori as tangata whenua.
E whakanuia ana e mātou a Te Tiriti o Waitangi, ā, ka tuku whakamoemiti ki te tangata whenua.

We recognise the ongoing journey to honour both the spirit and the promises of Te Tiriti, and the continued pursuit of tino rangatiratanga in Aotearoa.
Ka tautoko mātou i te tino rangatiratanga me te mana motuhake o te iwi Māori.

For Palestinians, the principles at the heart of Waitangi Day, self-determination, protection of land, language, culture, and dignity,  resonate deeply. Māori experiences of colonisation, land dispossession, and systemic injustice reflect struggles shared by Indigenous and colonised peoples around the world, including Palestinians.
He rite ngā mamae o te raupatu me te whakakāhoretanga o ngā motika taketake ki ngā iwi maha o te ao.

As Palestinians and allies living in Aotearoa, we stand in solidarity with Māori aspirations for justice and self-determination.
Ka tū mātou i runga i te kotahitanga me te iwi Māori, mō te tika me te rangatiratanga.

We also reaffirm our call for an end to the occupation of Palestine, and for international law and human rights to be upheld equally and without exception.
Kia mau te tika, kia mau te pono, kia mau te rangimārie.

Waitangi Day is not only a day of remembrance, but a call to action, to confront colonial injustice, to speak truth, and to stand alongside Indigenous peoples everywhere in their pursuit of freedom and dignity.
Kia kaha tātou ki te whakatika i ngā hara o te ao, kia ū ki te mana o ngā iwi taketake.

Palestine Forum of New Zealand

Te Huinga mō Pāhirītina i Aotearoa

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/05/waitangi-day-palestine-forum-of-new-zealand-waitangi-day-statement/

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Wellington’s sewage diverted away from shore, out to Cook Strait

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sewage can be seen on Wellington’s South Coast after a leak from the Moa Point wastewater plant. Kate Taptiklis

Wellington Water says screened wastewater is now being discharged straight into the Cook Strait again after days of being discharged near the shoreline on the South Coast.

On Wednesday the Moa Point wastewater plant’s lower floors completely flooded when sewage backed up in the 1.8km outfall pipe, which normally sends treated wastewater into the Cook Strait.

Since then raw sewage has been spewing from a five-metre pipe directly into the southern coastline.

In an discharge notice on Friday morning, Wellington Water said screened wastewater was now discharging to the long outfall pipe again.

Late on Thursday evening staff were able to get the long outfall pipe partially operating and the screens at the treatment plant working, Wellington Water said.

The screens remove items like sanitary pads and wet wipes from the wastewater, before it is discharged.

Wellington Water board chair Nick Leggett said currently they were only able to pump 900 litres per second of wastewater through the long outfall pipe.

“Which is most of the wastewater during an average day, but during peak flows throughout the day we will need to use the short outfall pipe,” he said.

Wellington Water said discharging screened wastewater out to sea via the 1.8km long outfall pipe allowed for greater dilution of the wastewater in the Cook Strait, reducing the amount of untreated wastewater flowing around the coastline, but the risk to public health still remained.

“For this reason, our advice to the public remains the same: we strongly advise that people avoid the coastal area along the south of Wellington until further notice. Do not enter the water or collect kaimoana from this area. Do not walk your dog along the beach,” said Leggett.

Leggett said while the situation remained serious, it was good to see progress.

“The team are working carefully throughout the weekend to increase the volume of flow through the long outfall pipe as much as possible, to reduce the use of the short outfall pipe,” said Leggett.

“However, the situation remains complex and at this stage we are unable to provide a timeframe of when this may be.”

Material being drained from longfall pipe, diver inspections taking place

Wellington Water said on Friday work was also being done to drain the clarifier tanks.

“There is some biological material that settles in the clarifier tanks that cannot be trucked, and the plan is to drain this via the long outfall pipe, where it is diluted.”

It said it was important to remove this material as soon as possible before it has a chance to become anaerobic and septic.

“This would cause an odour problem and pose a significant health and safety risk to workers onsite.”

However it cautioned that while the material was being drained people could see an increase of murky water in the area 1.8km out to sea.

Wellington Water said divers were also inspecting diffusers at the end of the outfall pipe on Friday.

“Shoreline inspections and clean-up of debris on the coastline around the short outfall continue three times daily, with a focus on completing these at low tide.”

A rāhui remains in place and covers anything the water touches/can touch with the high or low tides. While it is in effect, no public activities should be undertaken on or around the beaches on the southern coastline.

Mayor Andrew Little previously described the event a “catastrophic failure”, and said there must be an independent inquiry into what happened.

There were also concerns the leak could contaminate a nearby marine reserve and put several species at risk.

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/2026/02/06/wellingtons-sewage-diverted-away-from-shore-out-to-cook-strait/

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RIF funding supports 100 new homes in Kaikohe

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing $4 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund for infrastructure to support the Bisset Road social housing project in Kaikohe, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones and Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka say.

The Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) will support essential infrastructure such as roads, stormwater and wastewater, and infrastructure for carrying utilities like power and telecommunications. 

“The RIF is designed to support projects that deliver regional benefits, and Bisset Road is a prime example. Kaikohe needs more warm, secure, affordable homes, especially for workers for its growing businesses, and this funding will help,” Mr Jones says.

“More widely, the project means Ngāpuhi rangatahi and local tradespeople can gain apprenticeships and hands-on experience as this project rolls out. It means jobs for locals and a stronger regional workforce. 

“The build will help strengthen regional supply chains by using local timber and contractors and will provide good quality, affordable homes for whānau,” Mr Jones says.

The RIF grant follows on from the more than $50m government investment into housing in the Far North last year.

The Bisset Road development, which has been approved for Fast-Track, will provide up to 100 new affordable rentals, meaning rents will be capped at 80 percent of market rates for at least 25 years.

“The project demonstrates how community-led activities can deliver long-term outcomes for whānau, hapū, and communities across Te Tai Tokerau,” Mr Potaka says

The development is being undertaken by community housing provider Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi Limited – the health and social services delivery arm of the iwi authority Te Runanga a Iwi o Ngāpuhi. 

Additional funding comes from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, which is providing a grant of $29.7m, along with a $13.6m loan from Auckland-based social enterprise Community Finance. 

“We’re creating long-term stability for whānau in an area with high housing need, demonstrating what can be achieved when iwi and government work in partnership.” 

“Ngāpuhi is delivering on its plan to provide homes for its people. Together, we’re creating warm homes, local jobs, and opportunities that will last across generations,” Mr Potaka says.

Infrastructure work is underway and expected to finish this year, whilst the whole development project is expected to be finished in 2027. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/rif-funding-supports-100-new-homes-in-kaikohe/

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Flying start: All three NZ snowboarders through to Olympic Big Air final

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand’s Lyon Farrell reacts after competing in the snowboard men’s big air qualification at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Livigno Snow Park, in Livigno. AFP

New Zealand’s Lyon Farrell competes in the snowboard men’s big air qualification at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Livigno. AFP

New Zealand has made a flying start to the Winter Olympics in Italy, with all three men qualifying for the final of the snowboard Big Air event.

Lyon Farrell, Rocco Jamieson and Dane Menzies all finished inside the top 12 in a 30-man field to secure their spots in the high-pressure showdown at Livignio Snow Park on Sunday morning (NZT).

Farrell was the best of them, locking down seventh with his third and final run, reacting with animation when he landed his run and then again when the judges’ score was announced.

Needing to score 73.50 to finished inside the 12, Farrell produced a score of 81.50.

New Zealand’s Lyon Farrell competes in the snowboard men’s big air qualification at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games at Livigno. AFP

“Olympic finalist sounds incredible, I can’t believe it, it’s so good,” he told Sky Sport, reflecting on the additional pressure of being the 30th and last competitor to complete his run.

“There were a lot of people getting their runs done and I’m just waiting.

“I’ve got the best team ever, to keep me going forward. Everyone believes so much in me, it’s the best formula I could possible have to doing well.

“They kept me in a place where I felt like I could do anything and somehow in the last run I made it happen. Just crazy.”

Farrell, the oldest member of New Zealand’s 17-strong Olympic team at age 27, produced a combined score of 170.00. It was found by adding his two best runs.

That was enough to lift him one place ahead of Jamieson (168.25) while Menzies snuck through in 11th place with 164.00.

The top qualifier was Japan’s Hiroto Ogiwara (178.50), followed by Italy’s Ian Matteoli and Japan’s Kira Kimura.

The next New Zealanders in action will be Ruby Star Andrews and Sylvia Trotter in women’s freeski slopestyle qualifying on Saturday night (NZT).

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/flying-start-all-three-nz-snowboarders-through-to-olympic-big-air-final/

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Watch live: Waitangi Day celebrations continue

Source: Radio New Zealand

Waitangi Day celebrations are ongoing, starting with a dawn service which included a rowdy reception for the deputy prime minister and a waka flotilla and poewrful haka.

Follow coverage on our live blog below.

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/2026/02/06/watch-live-waitangi-day-celebrations-continue/

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Screened wastewater now being discharged straight into Cook Strait

Source: Radio New Zealand

Sewage can be seen on Wellington’s South Coast after a leak from the Moa Point wastewater plant. Kate Taptiklis

Wellington Water says screened wastewater is now being discharged straight into the Cook Strait again after days of being discharged near the shoreline on the South Coast.

On Wednesday the Moa Point wastewater plant’s lower floors completely flooded when sewage backed up in the 1.8km outfall pipe, which normally sends treated wastewater into the Cook Strait.

Since then raw sewage has been spewing from a five-metre pipe directly into the southern coastline.

In an discharge notice on Friday morning, Wellington Water said screened wastewater was now discharging to the long outfall pipe again.

Mayor Andrew Little previously described the event a “catastrophic failure”, and said there must be an independent inquiry into what happened.

There were also concerns the leak could contaminate a nearby marine reserve and put several species at risk.

Wellington Water strongly advised the public to stay away from South Coast beaches, and not to collect kaimoana in the area.

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/2026/02/06/screened-wastewater-now-being-discharged-straight-into-cook-strait/

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Basketball: Undermanned Breakers beaten by Phoenix in playoff blow

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tai Webster of the Breakers is challenged by John Brown of the South East Melbourne Phoenix. photosport

The New Zealand Breakers have been left with a mountain to climb to reach the NBL playoffs after being outplayed on their home court 114-83 by the South East Melbourne Phoenix.

Missing a number of key players, the Breakers fell away in the second half after going to the main break with the scores locked at 52-52.

It completed a season-sweep for the Phoenix over the Breakers, having won all four of their games, and lifted the Melbourne club to the top of the table.

The Breakers dropped one place to eighth and will probably need to win all of their four remaining games to have any hope of reaching the top six, starting with tonight’s quick-turnaround contest against the Illawarra Hawks – also in Auckland.

Coach Petteri Koponen’s team will need to be better if they’re to beat the seventh-placed visitors, having been eclipsed in most departments by the Phoenix.

Izaiah Brockington on the dribble for the Breakers. photosport

They were without rising star Karim Lopez, who picked up an injury in the buildup, adding to a medical list that also includes Sam Mennenga and Rob Baker, whose seasons have been ended prematurely by injury.

Izaiah Brockington stepped up to score 19 points while Tai Webster had 16 points and eight rebounds before he was ejected in the fourth quarter.

Guard Parker Jackson-Cartwright mixed 15 points with seven rebounds, five assists and two steals before he was ejected in the final quarter after earning two technical fouls.

South East Melbourne’s defence also forced New Zealand into 14 second half turnovers and they dominated the third quarter, winning it 34-15.

Six of their players scored double figures, led by Ian Clark with 23 points.

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/2026/02/06/basketball-undermanned-breakers-beaten-by-phoenix-in-playoff-blow/

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Lower pollution during Covid boosted methane: study

Source: Radio New Zealand

[repuv]

By Julien Mivielle and Laurent Thomet, AFP

Methane levels rose at a record pace in the wake of the pandemic, research has found. 123RF

In an ironic twist, lower air pollution during Covid lockdowns fuelled an unprecedented surge in the powerful greenhouse gas methane in the early 2020s, a study said Thursday.

Methane levels rose at a record pace in the wake of the pandemic as the super pollutant’s main natural “cleaning agent” weakened during that period, the research found.

The rise was also partly attributed to an increase in emissions from wetlands, lakes, rivers and agriculture, the result of wetter-than-average conditions in tropical areas, according to the study published in the journal Science.

Methane, the second biggest contributor to climate change, stays in the atmosphere far less longer than CO2, but its warming effect is roughly 80 times more potent over a 20-year period.

The greenhouse gas is scrubbed from the atmosphere over time by hydroxyl radicals (OH), molecules that act as natural “cleaning agents” and have a very short lifespan.

As Covid lockdowns limited travel and kept businesses shut, it caused a decline in a key ingredient – nitrogen oxide – which is needed to produce hydroxyl radicals.

“These drops in OH are partly linked to the fact that we emitted less nitrogen oxide,” Philippe Ciais, the study’s lead author, said in a press briefing.

“It seems paradoxical: We pollute less but it’s not good for methane [levels],” said Ciais, associate director at the Laboratory of Climate and Environment Sciences outside Paris.

The sharp drop in hydroxyl radicals in 2020 and 2021 explains roughly 80 percent of the annual variation in methane accumulation, the study said.

Methane levels had been rising steadily since 2007 but their growth accelerated during the pandemic, peaking at 16.2 parts per billion per year in 2020 before declining by half by 2023.

“The impressive increase in methane in the air at the beginning of the 2020s is mainly due to a reduction in the oxidizing capacity of the atmosphere,” Ciais said.

The paradox raises questions about how to ensure that clean air policies and efforts to cut pollution from cars, planes and ships do not have a negative effect on climate.

Marielle Saunois, a co-author of the study, described it as “collateral damage”.

“For me, this means we need to improve air quality and, even more importantly, mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, to offset these negative effects linked to the chemical-climate relationship,” Saunois said.

The methane pledge

The paper also linked the rise in methane levels to exceptionally wet conditions due to the cooling La Niña weather phenomenon between 2020 and 2023, especially in tropical Africa and southeast Asia.

Some 40 percent of methane emissions come from natural sources, mainly wetlands.

The rest are from human activities, particularly agriculture and the energy sector.

“As the planet becomes warmer and wetter, methane emissions from wetlands, inland waters, and paddy rice systems will increasingly shape near-term climate change,” said Hanqin Tian, a Boston College professor and co-author of the study.

The scientists said these effects need to be better understood and factored into global efforts to reduce methane emissions.

Under the Global Methane Pledge, launched at COP26 in Glasgow in 2021, nearly 160 countries have committed to cutting global methane emissions by 30 percent by 2030 compared with 2020 levels.

– AFP

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/lower-pollution-during-covid-boosted-methane-study/

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Watch live: Waitangi Day celebrations continue, as waka hit the water

Source: Radio New Zealand

Celebrations have begun at Waitangi Day, starting with a dawn service which included a rowdy reception for the deputy prime minister.

Follow coverage on our live blog below.

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/2026/02/06/watch-live-waitangi-day-celebrations-continue-as-waka-hit-the-water/

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Pedestrian dies after being hit by vehicle in Ōtara

Source: Radio New Zealand

A pedestrian died in Ōtara after being hit by a vehicle. RNZ/ Marika Khabazi

A pedestrian has died after being struck by a vehicle on a northbound lane of the Southern Motorway at Ōtara early on Friday morning.

Emergency services were called about 12.30am on Friday, between the Te Irirangi Drive on-ramp and the East Tamaki Road off-ramp.

First responders attended to the person, who died at the scene.

The northbound lanes were closed until 6am Friday.

Police said enquiries into the crash were ongoing.

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/2026/02/06/pedestrian-dies-after-being-hit-by-vehicle-in-otara/

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Pedestrian killed after being hit by vehicle in Ōtara

Source: Radio New Zealand

A pedestrian died in Ōtara after being hit by a vehicle. RNZ/ Marika Khabazi

A pedestrian has died after being struck by a vehicle on a northbound lane of the Southern Motorway at Ōtara early on Friday morning.

Emergency services were called about 12.30am on Friday, between the Te Irirangi Drive on-ramp and the East Tamaki Road off-ramp.

First responders attended to the person who died at the scene.

The northbound lanes were closed until 6am Friday.

Police said enquiries into the crash are ongoing.

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/2026/02/06/pedestrian-killed-after-being-hit-by-vehicle-in-otara/

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Body found at Napier beach

Source: Radio New Zealand

123rf

A body has been located at a beach in Napier, police say.

At around 8:25pm on Thursday, police were notified that a body was seen in the water off The Esplanade, Westshore.

Police and Coastguard responded and conducted a search for the body, which was recovered just before 1:30am.

A formal identification process is underway, and the death will be referred to the Coroner.

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/2026/02/06/body-found-at-napier-beach/

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Green Party celebrates decision to decline Taranaki seabed mining

Source: Radio New Zealand

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson RNZ / Mark Papalii

The Green Party is celebrating the decision to decline plans to mine the Taranaki seabed.

In a draft decision on Thursday, the fast-track approvals panel declined Trans-Tasman Resources’ (TTR) bid to mine 50 million tonnes of seabed a year for 30 years in the South Taranaki Bight.

The panel found there would be a credible risk of harm to Māui dolphins, kororā/little penguin, and fairy prion.

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson said it was a huge win for the environment and the community.

“We’re absolutely delighted to see the proposal not backed.

“Even the government’s own panel have come out and said seabed mining has little regional or national benefit and that it would only benefit destructive corporations.

“It’s an incredible win for the environment, but massive props to the local campaigns, local community people, iwi, NGOs, researchers, scientists, fishers, just regular, ordinary people who care, who have said the same thing for many years and have fought hard and long.”

TTR have until 19 February to comment on the decision.

Davidson said the mining company would be putting profit before people and the environment if they tried to appeal it.

“How silly would they look. The message is already very clear. This is destructive, overrides local community voices and Te Tiriti, and it’s harmful and dangerous to our environment, which people actually care about.

“They have no support.”

She said the draft decision set a precedent and sent a message to the government that seabed mining was a “dumb idea”.

“Stop putting forward your stupid ideas.”

Davidson said if the government was relying on seabed mining as a way to grow the economy, they were “at a dead end.”

“It’s short-sighted, it’s stupid, and it will not work.”

Trans-Tasman Resources says it will now consider its next options.

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/2026/02/06/green-party-celebrates-decision-to-decline-taranaki-seabed-mining/

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Super Rugby Pacific preview: Moana Pasifika

Source: Radio New Zealand

Super Rugby Pacific is back after a real return to form last year, with the competition kicking off in Dunedin on 13 February. As usual, each team has gone through an eventful off season, so today we’re checking in on last year’s fairytale team, Moana Pasifika.

Highlanders team preview

Overview

Moana Pasifika head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga before the Super Rugby Pacific – Moana Pasifika v Waratahs at North Harbour Stadium, Auckland – on Saturday 5th April 2025. Photo credit: Brett Phibbs / www.photosport.nz Brett Phibbs / www.photosport.nz

Moana pretty much saved themselves from extinction by finishing in seventh place and memorably making the play-offs last year. That was done off the back of a gigantic workload by Ardie Savea, who will not be with the team this year as he plies his trade in Japan. His absence will be the talking point over Moana this year, as they look to keep the momentum going on and off the field.

The Good

Photosport Ltd 2020

Despite Savea leaving, the squad assembled by coach Tana Umaga is definitely beginning to make Moana look more like a favoured destination than second or third resort. Former Hurricane and All Black Ngani Laumape is the big addition to the midfield, while Jimmy Tupou and 132 kg Alefosio Aho will add a lot in the second row.

The Bad

Moana Pasifika. Andy Radka/ActionPress

While they’ve stepped out of last resort category, Moana are seemingly in another stage they probably don’t want to be in. Kyren Tamouefolau’s departure to the Chiefs is a sign that other teams are now very much eyeing up any young talent Moana produces, so the pressure is on to be a title contender simply to make those players stick around.

Big boots to fill

Moana Pasifika Miracle Faillagi scores his third try during the Super Rugby Pacific match, Moana Pasifika v Hurricanes, North Harbour Stadium, Auckland. Michael Thomas/ActionPress

Miracle Faiilagi has been handed the unenviable task of replacing Savea as not only captain, but also the key loose forward. However, he will have plenty of help in the form of Semisi Paea and last year’s breakout star Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa.

What makes Moana fans different

Moana Pasifika fans during the Super Rugby Pacific – Moana Pasifika v Waratahs at North Harbour Stadium. Photosport

Moana went from playing in front of three men and a dog to establishing a fan base so dialled in they made North Harbour Stadium feel like Ellis Park. The most important game on the calendar is now definitely the crosstown derby with the Blues, which will likely be ramped up through both sides’ willingness to take shots at each other on social media.

Big games

Once again, it’s all of them. There will be an extra edge when Moana travel across town to play the Blues at Eden Park in round five, while they host their rivals in round 11. That run from round three on sees them play the Chiefs twice and the Crusaders once as well, after which we’ll have a decent barometer of what sort of post-Ardie reality Moana are in.

2026 squad

Props: Abraham Pole, Chris Apoua, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, Malakai Hala-Ngatai, Paula Latu, Tito Tuipulotu

Hookers: Mamoru Harada, Millennium Sanerivi, Samiuela Moli

Locks: Alefosio Aho, Allan Craig, Jimmy Tupou, Ofa Tauatevalu, Tom Savage

Loose Forwards: Dominic Ropeti, Miracle Faiilagi, Niko Jones, Ola Tauelangi, Semisi Paea, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Tupou Afungia

Halfbacks: Augustine Pulu, Jonathan Taumateine, Melani Matavao, Siaosi Nginingini

First Fives: Faletoi Peni, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Patrick Pellegrini

Midfield: Julian Savea, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Ngani Laumape, Tevita Latu

Outside Backs: Glen Vaihu, Israel Leota, Solomon Alaimalo, Tevita Ofa, Tuna Tuitama, William Havili

Next up on Monday: The Blues

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/super-rugby-pacific-preview-moana-pasifika/

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Green MP seeks recognition of tohorā/whales as legal persons

Source: Radio New Zealand

Whole blue whale fluke credit Mark Carwardine

A Green MP wants tohorā/whales to be recognised as legal persons.

In New Zealand, laws have been passed to grant legal personhood to natural features, allowing them to be represented in court and have rights similar to those of individuals.

Teanau Tuiono has lodged a member’s bill, the Tohorā Oranga Bill, which would give whales inherent rights, including the right to freedom of movement, a healthy environment, and the ability to thrive alongside humanity.

“Because they’re such an iconic taonga species, they’re like an avatar for the environment, it’s incredibly important to protect them as a species and protect their habitat as well, and the part that they play in the fuller ecosystem,” Tuiono said.

Green MP Teanau Tuiono RNZ / Mark Papalii

With whales under threat from commercial fishing, pollution, and the climate crisis, a different approach to marine protection was needed.

“Humans, we often see ourselves as the centre of the world and the centre of our universe. Actually, we share the planet with other species and with other sentient species as well.

“I think recognition would shift the mindset of decision-makers across a range of environmental laws to make sure they’re paid specific attention.”

He said iwi Ngāti Wai and the Hinemoana Halo Ocean Fund had been heavily involved in the kaupapa.

“I’d like to acknowledge the work of Ngāti Wai as part of Hinemoana Halo, who are in many ways the genesis of this and other iwi around the country who are looking at different ways to do whale conservation around whale strandings as well, and everyone who loves the moana.”

Members’ bills are put forward by an MP who is not a minister, and are drawn via a ballot system.

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/2026/02/06/green-mp-seeks-recognition-of-tohora-whales-as-legal-persons/

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Waitangi 2026: Dawn service in pictures

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Layla Bailey-McDowell

Politicians, church leaders, local iwi and a crowd in the thousands attended the dawn service which kicked off Waitangi Day celebrations.

The service included a rowdy reception for deputy prime minister David Seymour, who faced boos, and audience members heckling him during his speech. A pūtatara (conch shell) could also be heard blowing.

RNZ photographers and journalists were at the service.

Here is how the morning unfolded in pictures.

Sunrise at Waitangi today. RNZ / Layla Bailey-McDowell

Crowds gathered early for the dawn service. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The governor general Dame Cindy Kiro, deputy prime minister David Seymour, National’s Dr Shane Reti and Labour leader Chris Hipkins at the service. RNZ / Layla Bailey-McDowell

Defence Force personnel at the service. RNZ / Mark Papalii

One of those attending. RNZ Mark Papalii

Waitangi Day 2026 is marked at Te Whare Rūnanga, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds in the Bay of Islands. RNZ Mark Papalii

Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour delivers his reading. RNZ Mark Papalii

Bishop Te Kito Pikaahu asked the crowd for calm while Seymour delivered his prayer. RNZ/Mark Papalii

A protestor during Seymour’s reading. RNZ Mark Papalii

A band plays during the service. RNZ Mark Papalii

The crowd as the sun rises. RNZ Mark Papalii

Greens’ co-leader Marama Davidson. RNZ Mark Papalii

Dame Cindy Kiro. Mark Papalii

National’s Dr Shane Reti. Mark Papalii

Labour leader Chris Hipkins. Mark Papalii

Bagpipes at the dawn service. Mark Papalii

A flag is raised at the dawn service. Mark Papalii

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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/2026/02/06/waitangi-2026-dawn-service-in-pictures/

Posted on

Body located, Napier

Source: New Zealand Police

A body has been located at a beach in Napier.

At around 8:25pm on Thursday 5 February, Police were notified that a body was seen in the water off The Esplanade, Westshore.

Police and Coastguard responded and conducted a search for the body, which was located just before 1:30am.

A formal identification process is underway, and the death will be referred to the Coroner.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/body-located-napier/

Posted on

Five apprehended following burglary in Upper Hutt

Source: New Zealand Police

Four youths and a 20-year-old man have been apprehended following a burglary at a commercial premises in Upper Hutt overnight.

Hutt Valley Area Commander, Inspector Wade Jennings says Police were notified of an attempt to break into a store on Main Street at around 12:40am.

“The alleged offenders made multiple attempts to gain access to the store, however those attempts were unsuccessful. They then fled the scene in a vehicle.”

That vehicle was later seen by Police where it was stopped, and five people were apprehended.

“The quick reporting of this incident by the store owner assisted Police greatly with gathering all necessary information, leading to locating and apprehending these youths.

“We understand the impact that this kind of offending has on local businesses and will continue to work to ensure we hold these offenders to account.”

The alleged offenders are due to appear in Court on 12 February.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/five-apprehended-following-burglary-in-upper-hutt/

Posted on

Black Caps scramble to beat the US in World T20 warmup

Source: Radio New Zealand

Matt Henry celebrates a wicket. photosport

Seamer Matt Henry grabbed five wickets and came up clutch in the final over as the Black Caps saw off the United States by seven runs in a T20 World Cup warmup match in Mumbai.

It capped a difficult day for New Zealand, who couldn’t field ill batsmen Rachin Ravindra, with a viral infection having struck the team this week, according to coach Rob Walter.

Devon Conway was only cleared late to play the game while fellow-opener Finn Allen missed the game with a shoulder complaint.

Walter said he expected to have a fully fit squad to choose from for Sunday’s opening pool match against Afghanistan in Chennai.

Henry at least showed he was fit and firing, finishing with 5-32 as the US reached 201-8 off their 20 overs, in response to New Zealand’s 208-7.

The unheralded American side needed 12 to win off the final over but experienced seamer Henry halted them in their tracks, conceding just four runs and taking the wickets of Shubham Ranjane and Mohammad Mohsin off the second and fourth balls.

Earlier, Henry claimed the scalp of Andries Gous from the first ball of the chase and he later removed Milind Kumar for 43, while legspinner Ish Sodhi (2-27) dismissed top-scorer Saiteja Mukkamalla for 50.

New Zealand’s best with the bat was opener Tim Seifert, who blasted 66 off 31 balls before retiring to give others time at the crease.

Glenn Phillips struck a rapid 40 and Daryl Mitchell contributed 32.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/black-caps-scramble-to-beat-the-us-in-world-t20-warmup/

Posted on

How an ancestry DNA test can potentially blow up your life

Source: Radio New Zealand

If you unwrapped an online ancestry DNA test for Christmas, you might be feeling curious – even excited – about discovering your cultural heritage and family tree.

But did the accompanying card warn it could also blow up your life?

Before you join the more than 26 million people globally who have undertaken ancestry DNA testing through direct-to-consumer companies, there are some important things to consider.

Public health genomics expert Dr Jane Tiller categorises ancestry testing as “recreational genetics” and says accuracy is not guaranteed.

Google DeepMind / Pexels

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/06/how-an-ancestry-dna-test-can-potentially-blow-up-your-life/