Minister to attend Global Fraud Summit

Source: New Zealand Government

Customs and Associate Police Minister Casey Costello will travel to Europe tomorrow to represent New Zealand at the Global Fraud Summit and for a series of bilateral meetings. 

The inaugural Summit was held in London in 2024 and this, second version is being hosted by INTERPOL and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime in Vienna.

“In New Zealand, as with many similar countries, fraud and deception offending has become the most prevalent crime and it causes not only significant financial loss for victims but a loss of trust in business and institutions,” Ms Costello said. 

“Much of this type of offending originates from overseas groups that target multiple countries in their operation, and we know there are strong links between international organised crime, transnational fraud, and money laundering. 

“International co-operation is needed to address these crimes and it’s important to engage with partners and international law enforcement agencies around these issues.”

The Minister will be attending specific sessions on Southeast Asia and the Pacific.  

Following the Summit, the Minister will travel to Geneva to meet with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Red Cross and Red Crescent and to London for meetings across her Customs, Police and Health responsibilities.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/minister-to-attend-global-fraud-summit/

Appeal for information following assault, Napier

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Acting Detective Sergeant Emma Wiltshire – Hawke’s Bay CIB: 

Police are appealing for information following an assault in Meeanee, Napier, last week.

On Friday 6 March, Police received a report of an assault that occurred just before 7.30am, on the Limestone Track, between Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road.

Thankfully, the victim was able to get to safety uninjured, however they are understandably very shaken by the incident.

Police have conducted initial enquiries but have been unable to locate the offender and are now asking for the public’s help.

Police are looking for a man described to be in his late 40s, Caucasian with bright blue eyes. He has short black spikey hair, shorter on the sides than on top, and short dark grey facial hair that covered his cheeks, moustache, and chin area.

He is skinny to average build and approximately 6ft/182cm tall. He was reported to be wearing a black trenchcoat, a dark grey scarf, black pants, and black leather-type shoes. The trenchcoat had buttons down the front and deep pockets on the side.

If you have seen this man, witnessed this incident, or have any information about who he is or his whereabouts, please contact Police. We also want to speak with the owner of a white ute [pictured] that was nearby when this assault took place.

Additionally, if you have CCTV or dashcam footage of the Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road areas, between 7am and 8am on Friday 6 March, please get in touch so that we may review that footage.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260307/3213.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/appeal-for-information-following-assault-napier/

Update, aggravated robbery, Whanganui

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Nadine Staples, Whanganui CIB:

Police have arrested and charged three people in relation to an aggravated robbery in Castlecliff, Whanganui.

On Wednesday 4 March, around 6.10pm, Police were called with a report of an aggravated robbery that had occurred at a premises on Polson Street.

It is alleged that the offenders entered the premises and stole a number of cigarettes and bottles of alcohol, before fleeing the scene on a quad bike which has now been located.

Police previously arrested one youth in relation to the incident. Two more men, both 18, are now due in Whanganui District Court. One on 31 March charged with aggravated robbery.

The other on 16 April, charged with unlawful possession of ammunition/firearm, cannabis possession and receiving stolen property.

Enquiries remain ongoing and Police are not ruling out further arrests or charges.

Police are asking for anyone who has information about the incident, or who recognises the people in these images, to please get in touch.

You can provide information through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260304/4451 – or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/update-aggravated-robbery-whanganui/

Rotorua Police out in numbers, arrests made

Source: New Zealand Police

Police were out in numbers Wednesday night mitigating a gang gathering in the Rotorua area, as well as making a number of great arrests on unrelated matters.

A large group of gang members began gathering in Rotorua on Wednesday, but they weren’t Police’s only focus of the night, officers made seven arrests unrelated to the gathering, summonsed one person to court, and impounded a vehicle.

Officers will continue to have a visible presence in Rotorua today as the gang moves on through to Ōpōtiki.

A 30-year-old man was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, utensils for use, a firearm, and an offensive weapon, following a call to Police reporting suspicious behaviour on Aquarius Drive. He is due to reappear in Rotorua District Court on 27 March.

In a separate incident, around 9pm, Police saw a vehicle traveling in the Western Heights area that had been reported stolen the day before. When signalled to stop, the driver attempted to flee, Police pursued the vehicle, and it was spiked before coming to a stop on Harrold Crescent. Two youth were arrested.

A further three people were located and arrested on warrants to arrest, another was arrested for breach of conditions, and a final person had their vehicle impounded and has been summonsed to court for driving while disqualified.

Inspector Tristan Murray says just because there are officers in the area focused on ensuring there are no issues with the gang gathering, doesn’t mean any other matters or offending will fly under the radar.

“Police remain focused on the safety of the community, and we will continue to work hard to disrupt all illegal activity and hold offenders to account, whether it’s gang members or otherwise” he says.

Anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour is urged to call 111 immediately. Any reports after the fact can be done through 105 with as much information as possible, either online or over the phone.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/rotorua-police-out-in-numbers-arrests-made/

Appeal for information following damage to vehicles, Clive

Source: New Zealand Police

Hawke’s Bay Police investigating unlawful interference with vehicles in Clive are appealing for information to assist enquiries.

Detective Gabrielle Parsons says Police are investigating damage involving parked vehicles over the past week on Ferry Road, Tucker Lane, Allens Lane, Sutton Avenue and State Highway 51.

“The damage has mainly been done overnight.

“Windows have been smashed, vehicles rummaged through, and in some cases ignition was damaged.”

Police are conducting enquiries into the incidents to identify and locate those responsible.

“If you recognise anyone in these pictures, we believe they can assist us with our enquiries, please get in touch.”

We ask anyone who has seen suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles, or who has dashcam/CCTV footage from these streets between 6 and 12 March, to contact us as soon as possible.

Detective Parsons says it’s a good time to remember to park your vehicle off the street if possible, remove valuable items and lock it.

“Exterior lighting and operational CCTV help too, and if you see any suspicious behaviour as it’s happening please report it immediately on 111.”

Other information can be provided to Police online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking ‘Update Report’ or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number 260307/3517.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/appeal-for-information-following-damage-to-vehicles-clive/

Drug arrests in rural Southland

Source: New Zealand Police

Police discovered drugs and firearms following search warrants in and around Gore and Riversdale.

Over the past two days Eastern Southland Police targeted drug suppliers.

Operation Nightforce was assisted by extra staff from the District and a drug detection dog from Te Waipounamu.

Senior Sergeant Gary Iddenten from Southern Police says the operation targeted several addresses and that two people were arrested without incident.

“We found cannabis cultivation, a firearm and other Class A and B drugs.”

A 20-year-old man is in custody and will appear in Invercargill District Court on 25 March to face over 20 drug possession and supply charges.

A 39-year-old woman was also arrested for breach of bail for previous active charges.

Senior Sergeant Iddenten says investigations are continuing and that further prosecutions are expected.

“We will continue to target those who supply drugs no matter where you live.

“Substances like these have the potential to cause extreme harm and damage in our communities.

“If anyone in the public knows of those supplying drugs in our communities, please contact us on 105.”

Information can also be reported to your local Police station or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

We also encourage anyone affected by drug addiction to seek help though the Alcohol and Drug helpline on 0800 787 797, or free text 8681.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Team

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/drug-arrests-in-rural-southland/

MCKL rolls out Open Day, inviting students and parents to discover Future-Ready Education Pathways

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a student will make. For those exploring quality pre-university and diploma pathways, Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) invites students and parents to its upcoming MCKL Open Day happening on 13 and 14 March 2026, from 9am to 5pm at both its Kuala Lumpur and Penang campuses.

With a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and holistic education, MCKL continues to empower students with programmes that open doors to universities worldwide while nurturing character and purpose.

During the two-day Open Day, visitors will have the opportunity to explore MCKL’s range of top-tier Pre-U and Diploma programmes, speak directly with experienced lecturers, and receive personalised academic guidance to help them choose the pathway that best suits their ambitions.

Students can also take advantage of exclusive Open Day rebates, including RM500 rebates on selected programmes and RM2,000 rebates for Diploma programmes, available only during the Open Day period.

What to Expect at MCKL Open Day

Visitors to the campus can look forward to a variety of engaging and informative activities, including:

  • Discovering MCKL’s Pre-University and Diploma programmes
  • Learning about MCKL as a Qualifications Scotland (QS) Approved Centre
  • Taking a Career Guidance Test
  • Meeting academic advisors for personalised consultations
  • Exploring available scholarships, financial aid and PTPTN loan options

Conveniently located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the campus is next to Tun Sambanthan Monorail Station and only 10 minutes from KL Sentral, making it easily accessible for visitors. Meanwhile, the Penang campus is situated in the heart of Georgetown, providing students in the northern region with access to the same quality education.

Meet MCKL Beyond Campus

For students who may not be able to attend the Open Day, MCKL will also be participating in several upcoming education fairs, providing another opportunity to meet the college’s academic advisors and learn more about its programmes.

Visitors can meet the MCKL team at the following fairs:

  • Coursemap Education Fair at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur – 14 & 15 March 2026
  • Sure Expo Education Fair at Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur – 28 & 29 March 2026
  • MEF Penang at Setia SPICE Convention Centre, Penang – 28 & 29 March 2026
  • Sure Expo Education Fair at Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur – 4 & 5 April 2026
  • Sure Expo Education Fair Midvalley Exhibition Centre, Johor Bahru – 11 & 12 April 2026

These fairs provide students with the chance to explore their study options, receive course counselling, and discover how MCKL can support their academic journey.

Start Your Journey with Confidence

For over four decades, MCKL has built a strong reputation for nurturing students who excel academically while developing the values, character, and critical thinking skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Whether through its Open Day or education fairs, MCKL welcomes students and parents to discover how the college can be the launchpad for their future success.

To learn more, visit mckl.edu.my or speak to the MCKL team at the upcoming events.

https://mckl.edu.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/school/methodist-college-kuala-lumpur/
https://www.facebook.com/share/19qkXtd7P7/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.instagram.com/methodistcollegekl?igsh=MTJzYzFkM203NGlzbg==

Hashtag: #MCKL #openday #educationfair #penang #kualalumpur

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/mckl-rolls-out-open-day-inviting-students-and-parents-to-discover-future-ready-education-pathways/

Police presence in Rotorua and Ōpōtiki for gang tangi

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Inspector Nicky Cooney, Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander:

Police will have a visible presence across Rotorua tomorrow and Saturday as a gang tangi travels from Rotorua to Ōpōtiki.

A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in town for the tangi from many parts of the country.

Police will have additional resources available to provide support to staff and to provide a respectful and safe space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully.

Police have conveyed our lawful expectations to local gang leaders, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which Police will act upon.

Our focus is on the safety of everyone. We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.

Police will have additional patrols in place Friday and Saturday, and will follow up on reports of illegal activity.

We urge anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately. Other reports can be made via 105.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/police-presence-in-rotorua-and-opotiki-for-gang-tangi/

Appeal for information: Fatal crash, SH5, Taupō

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following a fatal crash on State Highway 5, Taupō, on Monday.

On Monday 9 March, around 2.10am, Police were called to the single vehicle crash where sadly one person was located deceased.

The Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination and enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain on going.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the crash or the manner of driving of a Green Land Rover Discovery towing a trailer with two motorcycles.

Alternatively, if you have dashcam footage from the State Highway 5, Taupō, or surrounding areas, in the late hours of Sunday 8 March to the early hours of Monday morning, please get in touch.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260309/9199.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/appeal-for-information-fatal-crash-sh5-taupo/

Positive lines of enquiry into threat against school

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are making enquiries after a threat was made towards a Timaru school, however there is no information to suggest it is credible.

Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Vicki Walker says Police were alerted to the message about 7.45pm on 10 March.

“We will not detail the specifics of the threat, however investigators are actively pursuing positive lines of enquiry to identify the person responsible for sending the message.

“Officers are providing reassurance patrols in the area, and we are working closely with the school as the investigation progresses.

“At this time, we are unable to comment further, however ask anyone with direct information to contact us.”

You can make a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update report”, or by calling 105. Please use the reference number 260310/5712.

Alternatively, you can make an anonymous report via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/positive-lines-of-enquiry-into-threat-against-school/

Appeal for information following serious assault, Mahia

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Joshua Jones – Wairoa CIB: 

Police are appealing for information following a serious assault at an address in Mahia at the end of February.

On Saturday 28 February, around 11.30pm, Police were called with a report that a man had entered an address uninvited, on Newcastle Street, and seriously assaulted one of the occupants.

The man was confronted by another occupant of the address, who has hit the man over the head with a golf club causing injury to his head and face – as a result he has fled from the property on a side-by-side quadbike, down Newcastle Street and onto Weld Street.

This is a very serious incident that has happened in a place where the victim should have been able to feel safe. The victim sustained serious injuries, and both occupants are understandably very shaken by the incident.

Police have conducted initial enquiries, but have been unable to identify the man, and are now seeking the public’s assistance.

The man is described to be in his 30s or 40s around 6’1”-6’3”/185.4cm-190.5cm in height, and of chubby build. He was reported to be wearing a white singlet and jeans. He has very short, black, hair and a receding hair line.

Police are asking for anyone that has seen a man matching this description, or who had unexplained head injuries from the weekend of Saturday 28 February, to please get in touch.

Additionally, we would like to hear from anyone who witnessed a dark coloured quad bike in the Newcastle Street and Weld Street areas, between 11pm and midnight on that Saturday night, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage of the area.

Information can be provided by going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 and clicking “update report”, or by calling 105.

Please quote file number 260301/0548.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/appeal-for-information-following-serious-assault-mahia/

Arrests made, drugs and firearms seized, Canterbury

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells: 

Police have arrested two men and seized amounts cash, methamphetamine, firearms, and ammunition, in Canterbury.

Over the past two weeks, Police executed search warrants at various properties linked to Mongrel Mob gang members, in Christchurch and North Canterbury.

During these searches, Police located and seized several thousand dollars in cash, methamphetamine, several firearms, and ammunition.

Police also discovered a “chop shop” and have been able to recover several stolen vehicles. A further five vehicles were seized by the courts due to unpaid fines.

As a result, two men, who are both patched Mongrel Mob members, were arrested.

They are remanded in custody, due to reappear in the Christchurch District Court in the coming weeks.

A 34-year-old is due to appear on 25 March and a 29-year-old is due to appear on 1 April. Both are facing charges relating to driving matters, possession of methamphetamine for supply, possession of cannabis, and unlawful possession if ammunition.

Police are not ruling out further charges.

Police are committed to disrupting and minimising the social harm caused by gangs in our community. If you have any information or concerns about illegal activity, please make a report through 111 if there is an immediate threat, or through 105 – with as much detail as possible – either online or over the phone, if it is after the fact.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/arrests-made-drugs-and-firearms-seized-canterbury/

MCKL Students Organise Mega Sports Carnival ’26 to Support MND Malaysia

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 March 2026 – A group of A-Level students from Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL) will be hosting the Mega Sports Carnival ’26 on 28 March 2026 at the MCKL, Kuala Lumpur campus, in collaboration with MND Malaysia (Motor Neurone Disease Malaysia). This event is to raise funds and increase awareness for individuals affected by Motor Neurone Disease.

The student-led initiative is organised by Lee Yi Ying, Siah Kai Jing, Chu Yi Shyian, Muhammad Murtaza Karimi, Sarveshrau, and Lee Yi Hui as part of the Service Learning component of their A-Level programme. The project aims to combine sports, community engagement, and education to support a meaningful social cause.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological condition that affects muscle movement and significantly impacts the quality of life of patients and their families.

“We wanted to create an event that not only raises funds but also increases awareness among young people about Motor Neurone Disease,” said Sarveshrau, one of the student organisers. “Through sports and community participation, we hope to encourage more people to learn about MND and support the important work done by MND Malaysia.”

The organisers are also proud to announce sponsorship support from Yakult Malaysia, whose contribution helps enhance the event experience and support the fundraising efforts.

The sports carnival will feature several Under-21 sporting categories, including:

  • Basketball (3v3) — RM40 per team
  • Badminton (Singles & Doubles) — RM20 per team
  • Table Tennis (Singles) — RM15 per person
  • Football (7 players per team) — RM50 per team
  • Volleyball (6 players per team) — RM40 per team

All participants, except football and volleyball players, will need to attend a Welcoming Ceremony organised jointly by MCKL and MND Malaysia before the games begin.

AGENDA

Time Programme
7.15 a.m. Participant Registration
7.30 a.m. – 8.15 a.m. Welcoming Ceremony by MCKL & MND Malaysia

(Compulsory for all participants except football and volleyball players)

8.15 a.m. onwards Basketball, Badminton, and Table Tennis Match Begins
12.00 p.m. Morning Session Medal Ceremony
1.00 p.m. – 2.00 p.m. Special Sharing Session by Yakult Malaysia (Event Sponspor)
3.00 p.m. onwards Football and Volleyball Matches Begin
6.30 p.m. Football & Volleyball Medal Ceremony

The top three winners in each category will receive medals, while e-certificates will be awarded to all participants. All profits raised from the carnival will be fully donated to MND Malaysia to support patient care, advocacy, and awareness initiatives.

Students of MCK and members of the public are encouraged to participate and support the cause by registering through the official form:

Registration Link
https://forms.gle/FqvEAEFDwpJKBJJ98

Media Contact

Sarveshrau A/L Magentharau

A-Level Service Learning Team

Methodist College Kuala Lumpur (MCKL)

Telephone: +60 16-200 4608

Instagram: @mnd_sports_carnival

Monisha Sri

Executive, Public Relations & Communications

Methodist College Kuala Lumpur

Telephone: (603) 2274 1851 Ext: 164

Email: monisha.sk@mckl.edu.my

Website: https://mckl.edu.my/

https://mckl.edu.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/school/methodist-college-kuala-lumpur/
https://www.facebook.com/share/19qkXtd7P7/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.instagram.com/methodistcollegekl?igsh=MTJzYzFkM203NGlzbg==

Hashtag: #mckl #studentinitiative #methodistcollegekualalumpur #KLCollege #higherstudies

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/mckl-students-organise-mega-sports-carnival-26-to-support-mnd-malaysia/

Appeal for information following burglary, Mackenzie

Source: New Zealand Police

Police investigating a burglary in Middle Valley, Mackenzie are appealing for information from the public.

On Sunday 8 March, Police received a report of a theft from a church on Middle Valley Road, which occurred sometime between 19 February and 4 March.

Stolen from the church was a large brass Eagle lectern.

If anyone has seen this lectern, or has information that could assist Police’s investigations, please get in contact with us.

Police can be contacted via 105, either over the phone, or online. Please reference the file number 260309/9096.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/appeal-for-information-following-burglary-mackenzie/

Appeal for information, vehicle crimes, Queenstown

Source: New Zealand Police

Queenstown Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying the suspects involved in stealing two vehicles and damaging two others.

The vehicles were seen in the Lake Hayes Estate and Lower Shotover areas overnight on Saturday 7 March and into the early hours of Sunday 8 March.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson, Area Response Manager says at about 1.40am on Sunday morning Police received a call from a resident in Lake Hayes Estate who had heard two cars speeding and what sounded like a crash.

When Police arrived, they saw a silver Subaru Legacy station wagon on Hope Avenue. Police signalled it to stop but the vehicle sped off. Police did not pursue the vehicle due to its dangerous speed. A short time later the vehicle was found abandoned in Ada Place, Lake Hayes Estate. The vehicle had been stolen from Tonis Terrace, Lower Shotover.

A second vehicle involved, a Nissan Tiida, was located abandoned in a park. It had been stolen from Orbell Drive, Lake Hayes Estate.

On the same night Police also received reports of two vehicles that were broken into and damaged on Tonis Terrace, Lower Shotover and Castalia Drive, Lake Hayes Estate.

Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson says this is a timely reminder to keep vehicles locked and to remove any valuables from vehicles overnight.

Queenstown Police would like to hear from anyone who has information on these vehicles, and are wanting to hear from anyone who may have dashcam or CCTV footage showing suspicious behaviour in the Lake Hayes Estate and Lower Shotover areas between 10pm Saturday and 4am on Sunday.

Information can be passed through the 105 service using file number 260309/9008 as a reference.

People can also give information anonymously using the Crime Stoppers number 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/10/appeal-for-information-vehicle-crimes-queenstown/

Advocacy – Government needs to close “back-door” method of restricting rights using proposed “move-on orders” – PSNA

Source: Palestinian Solidarity Network Aotearoa

 

PSNA has written to Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith today requesting proposed ‘move-on’ laws will specifically continue to allow free speech and the right to protest under the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.

 

The approach to government comes in the wake of last week’s attempt by Christchurch City Councillor, Aaron Keown, to close down Palestine solidarity protests at Christchurch’s Bridge of Remembrance. 

 

As reported on Radio New Zealand Keown is insisting the police are keen to use the proposed new laws to shift protests on:

 

Keown said police told him months ago that they needed powers like the proposed move-on orders, which he believed would help disperse protesters.

Councillor Keown welcomed the newly announced move-on powers, which he believed would “absolutely help” disperse protesters, something Woods (Amnesty International director of advocacy and movement building Lisa Woods) said was of grave concern to Amnesty International.

 

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa’s Co-chair, John Minto says Keown’s statements contradict assurances made by senior police when a PSNA delegation met with them two weeks ago in Wellington to discuss increasing attacks on Palestine solidarity supporters by IDF soldiers and other elements of the pro-Israel lobby. 

 

“At the meeting police specifically told our delegation these ‘move-on’ orders would NOT be used to restrict protest rights.”

 

“So, there is a mass of confusion around over the proposed new law.”

“We need the Justice Minister to use clear wording, when he introduces legislation into Parliament, that anyone exercising their rights under the Bill of Rights Act will not be included.”

 

“We already have many laws which were introduced for a particular purpose, but which have been used to restrict the right to protest – for example trespass orders and ‘unlawful assembly’ provisions under the Crimes Act,” Minto says.

 

“New Zealanders rights to free speech and right to protest in public are under attack. Last year police and the Independent Police Conduct Authority colluded to propose legislation which would have required police permission to organise a protest”

 

“Authoritarian regimes the world over are putting heavy restriction on the right to protest. Many of them claim to be democracies.  It’s important we resist jack-boot policing here.”

 

John Minto

Co-Chair PSNA

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/advocacy-government-needs-to-close-back-door-method-of-restricting-rights-using-proposed-move-on-orders-psna/

Appeal for information following burglary, Dannevirke

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Tararua Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Carey Williamson: 

Manawatū Police are appealing for information following a burglary in Dannevirke last week.

On Friday 6 March, around 11.40pm, Police were called with a report that a burglary was in progress at a store on High Street.

Officers responded immediately, however the offenders had already fled the scene – taking with them a large amount of alcohol and cigarettes, as well as an amount of cash.

A scene guard was in place overnight and a scene examination was carried out early Saturday morning.

Enquiries are ongoing, however, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in the High Street area, between 11pm and midnight last Friday, and may have witnessed the incident, or any suspicious behaviour.

Additionally, anyone travelling in that area, around the same time, with dashcam footage is urged to get in touch so that we may be able to review that footage.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260307/3053.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 – referencing the same file number.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/09/appeal-for-information-following-burglary-dannevirke/

Arrest and appeal following aggravated robbery, Whanganui

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Rebecca Taylor, Whanganui CIB:

Police have arrested and charged one person in relation to an aggravated robber in Castlecliff, Whanganui, this week.

On Wednesday 4 March, around 6.10pm, Police were called with a report of an aggravated robbery that had occurred at a premises on Polson Street.

It is alleged that the offenders entered the premises and stole a number of cigarettes and bottles of alcohol, before fleeing the scene on a quad bike.

Yesterday, Police arrested one youth in relation to the incident. They are due in Whanganui Youth Court, charged with aggravated robbery.

Enquiries remain ongoing and Police are not ruling out any further arrests or charges.

Police are asking for anyone who has information about the incident or who witnessed a quad bike entering or leaving the Polson Street area, or has dashcam footage of the area, on Wednesday 4 March between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, to please get in touch.

You can provide information through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260304/4451 – or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/arrest-and-appeal-following-aggravated-robbery-whanganui/

Community effort brings one to court, Feilding

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have arrested and charged a 23-year-old man following a reported burglary at the Feilding Library.

On Sunday March 1, Police were notified of a burglary believed to have occurred overnight, with initial estimates placing the value of alleged stolen items at more than $20,000.

Sergeant Mike Linton says thanks to vigilance from members of the public and strong community knowledge, Police were able to identify the alleged offender immediately.

“As a result, Police located a 23-year-old man, where he was arrested and charged with burglary.

“This quick result highlights the strength of the local community working alongside Police.

“This is another example of our community banding together and remaining vigilant by reporting suspicious behaviour,”  says Sergeant Linton.

“This is a great result, quickly apprehending someone who thought it was acceptable to steal items that benefit our community. It reinforces the work our staff are doing to target offending and hold offenders accountable in our area.”

Police would like to thank the members of the public who came forward with information and continue to encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it.

The 23-year-old man has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear in court at a later date.

If you see any suspicious or unlawful activity, please contact Police immediately on 111 with as much information as you can safely gather.

Information can be provided in non-emergencies through 105 online or by phone, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/community-effort-brings-one-to-court-feilding/

Attempted ram raid: Police make arrest and recover firearm

Source: New Zealand Police

A teenager’s failed bid to ram raid a Far North supermarket has tallied up into a list of serious charges.
Police responded after 2.40am yesterday following a burglary reported at the Memorial Avenue store in Kaikohe.
Mid/Far North Area Prevention Manager, Senior Sergeant Clem Armstrong, says the vehicle allegedly reversed into the supermarket before one of the offenders exited the vehicle.
“The offender attempted to break the glass but was unable to gain entry,” he says.
“When he noticed a security guard watching, he jumped back in the vehicle and fled the scene.”
Thanks to a quick-thinking witness noting down the number plate, Police were able to determine that the vehicle involved was stolen.
“A Police unit conducting area searches soon located the vehicle driving through Kaikohe,” Senior Sergeant Armstrong says.
“Officers signalled for the vehicle to stop, but it failed to do so and continued travelling at safe speeds.”
Police instead tracked the vehicle’s movements from a distance, as it continued south for around 70 kilometres towards Dargaville.
Armstrong says the vehicle came to a stop.
“The driver ran from the vehicle and the passenger attempted to flee but was caught by our staff,”
“On talking to the passenger, Police became aware that a sawn-off shotgun had been thrown from the vehicle during its travels.”
“Information was relayed to colleagues further north, and Police quickly retrieved the firearm from the roadside near Kaikohe.”
A 14-year-old male appeared in the Whangārei Youth Court yesterday.
He has been charged with burglary, intentional damage, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.
Armstrong says efforts to locate the other offender are ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 105, quoting file number 260305/5389, or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111

ENDS
Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/attempted-ram-raid-police-make-arrest-and-recover-firearm/