Category: DJF

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Dangerous drivers face court

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have impounded seven vehicles and summonsed four drivers to court with another three pending charges following a gang-related funeral procession.

A Police operation monitored the convoy that travelled between Ōtara and the Manukau Memorial Gardens in Wiri on 5 February.

Inspector Ann Wilkie, Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, says Police observed reckless behaviour from some taking part in the procession.

“Police assigned to monitor the procession witnessed appalling actions by passengers of some of the vehicles,” Inspector Wilkie says.

“Adults and teenagers who were sitting on the edge of car windows; as well as several vehicles being driven dangerously.

“This behaviour continued for quite some time, putting other road users, and the people hanging out of the windows at real risk of harm.”

A checkpoint was established at the entrance to the Manukau Memorial Gardens, checking those leaving.

Traffic cameras, as well as Police staff on the ground, were able to capture images of drivers, passengers and registration plates of the vehicles involved.

“As a result, we have already caught up with a handful of people we have identified as committing these dangerous acts,” Inspector Wilkie says.

“Our enforcement phase is ongoing, and we expect to take further action.”

Inspector Wilkie says Police acknowledge the passing of a loved one and want to support a safe journey to their final resting place but cannot allow the sort of behaviours that put others at risk.       

“Police have made it clear to participants about what is acceptable behaviour,” she says.

“The behaviour by some of those involved in this was not good enough and they have been put before the Court.”

Four women aged between 27 and 37 have been summoned to appear in the Manukau District Court for dangerous driving, and had their vehicles impounded for 28 days.

Another three vehicles have also been impounded for 28 days as part of the same incident and Police are considering further charges.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/dangerous-drivers-face-court/

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Rural News – Profitability at all-time high, but farmers cautious – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

Strong returns and lower debt-servicing costs mean more farmers than ever are making a profit, according to the latest Federated Farmers Confidence Survey.
Of nearly 650 farmers who responded to the survey in late January and early February, 70% said their farm was currently profitable.
“That’s the highest level since we started our twice-yearly Farm Confidence Survey back in 2009,” Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says.
“It’s great to see farmers doing well after several tough years of rising costs and uncertainty. When farmers are profitable, that’s good news for the rest of New Zealand.
“That money flows into rural communities and the wider economy, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening regional New Zealand.”
The mid-season survey shows farmers are feeling the most confident about current economic conditions since 2017, with a net 37% positive score.
“That’s a big turnaround from 2023/24, when farmer confidence was stuck at rock bottom and looked like it was just going to keep falling,” Langford says.
“Improved commodity prices are the key driver, as well as lower lending interest rates.
“At the same time, Federated Farmers has been working incredibly hard to cut some of the red tape that was holding our sector back, and we’ve had a Government that’s listened to our concerns.
“That easing of regulation has really helped breathe new life back into rural New Zealand again.”
The recovery from 2023/24 is now firmly established across most sectors, with the number of profitable dairy farms stable at 81%, and meat and wool farms improving substantially.
“Arable farm profitability continues to lag at 41%, but that’s a small improvement from our July 2025 survey.
“It’s been an incredibly challenge year and harvest for our arable farmers across the country” Langford says.
Despite favourable current conditions for farmers, the survey shows many are feeling apprehensive about the future, with concerns about cost pressures and market volatility.
When asked about their expectations for after-tax profit over the next 12 months, farmers’ optimism has dropped sharply, with more now predicting a fall in profits than an increase.
This marks the first negative profitability outlook since early 2024.
“Dairy farmers were particularly pessimistic,” Langford says.
“With forecast payouts hovering around $8.50-$9.50 per kilogram of milk solids, but rising input costs pushing the break-even margin to $8.50, there’s quite a bit of nervousness there.
“Farmers might be receiving strong milk cheques, but it’s the margin that matters. If costs keep rising, that will quickly eat away at profitability.”
Forward sentiment on economic conditions slipped to a net positive 4%, down from 6% six months ago.
A particularly worrying result is the finding that more farmers are having difficulty recruiting skilled and motivated staff.
Langford says it’s incredibly frustrating for farmers because, even as nationwide unemployment rises, they struggle to find good staff.
“It’s a message we keep sending to successive governments,” he says.
“The primary industries are the engine room of the economy, but it’s hard to attract willing workers to more remote provincial areas.
“Farmers play a role in training and looking after their staff, but many challenges are beyond their control.
“When rural communications, roads, bridges, and school bus services are under-invested in, younger workers and families stay in the cities – sometimes even if that means relying on a benefit,” Langford says.
When asked in the survey about their greatest concerns, farmers said regulation and compliance costs are still the main worry, but input costs have risen back to second place.
“While inflation has eased across the broader economy, on-farm expenses for essentials such as electricity and feed remain high.
“That’s continuing to put pressure on farmers’ cashflow and profitability.
“Worries about farmgate and commodity prices jumped sharply to third place.”
Asked what the priorities should be for the Government in election year, fiscal policy was number one on farmers’ lists.
“Clearly, farmers are concerned about government spending, taxation and debt levels,” Langford says.
“They also want the Government to prioritise the economy and business environment.”
Local government reform was fourth on the priority list, up from eighth just a year ago.
“There’s continued dissatisfaction with rates hikes, spending priorities and service delivery in rural areas,” Langford says.
“Hopefully the Government’s proposals for a rates cap, and for reducing the number of councils to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency, will see these concerns diminish in future.
Langford says the best move the Government could make to turbocharge confidence and investment in agriculture would be to pick up Federated Farmers’ ideas for improvements to the new legislation that will replace the Resource Management Act.
“That bloated Act, and the costly and time-consuming resource consents and hearings it entails, has been a thorn in the side of our productive sector for far too many years.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/rural-news-profitability-at-all-time-high-but-farmers-cautious-federated-farmers/

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Auckland sees biggest growth in consumer spending in two years

Source: Radio New Zealand

Consumer spending processed through all core retail merchants in Worldline NZ’s payments network during February were up 2.8 percent in the Auckland/Northland region. 123RF

Auckland has seen the biggest growth in consumer spending in two years, with modest growth holding steady elsewhere.

Consumer spending processed through all core retail merchants in Worldline NZ’s payments network during February reached $3.686 billion or 2.2 percent up on February 2025, including the comings and goings of merchants on its network.

The Auckland/Northland region was a standout with a 2.8 percent increase in spending over the year earlier – the biggest year-on-year growth the region had seen in a single month in nearly two years.

Worldline NZ chief sales officer Bruce Proffit said it was encouraging to see a positive consumer spending trend since the start of the year.

“While the annual growth rate is relatively low and spending did not increase across all sectors and regions, it’s still heartening to see that total spending is up at this point of the year, and, most notably, up in New Zealand’s largest region,” he said.

“Noticeably so far this year, the South Island pattern remains similar, although Wellington spending is still below year-ago levels. Waikato remains one of the fastest growth regions and its spending level surpassed that of Wellington – not by much, but for the third month in a row.”

Annual growth rates for core retail spending was highest in Palmerston North (+4.5 percent), Otago (+3.8 percent) and Waikato (+3.7 percent), while spending declines were highest percentage-wise in Wairarapa (-2.3 percent) and Gisborne (-1.7 percent).

Valentine’s Day hit by bad weather

Worldline data indicates consumer spending on flowers and jewellery spiked in the days before and including Valentine’s Day although overall spending was down on last year, with wet weather likely a factor in dampening romantic retail spirits across the nation.

Total spending through florist and watch/jewellery merchants in Worldline NZ’s payments network was down over the year earlier by more than 14 percent to $4.8m over the two days ending Saturday 14 February.

However, data also suggests Southland and Palmerston North were still willing to splash the cash to celebrate the most romantic day of the year.

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Fight continues to stop Christchurch terrorist from giving evidence at inquest

Source: Radio New Zealand

Outside the Masjid Annur, flowers surround the memorial to the 51 shuhada (martyrs), who were killed when a terrorist opened fire at two mosques in Christchurch five years ago. RNZ / Nathan Mckinnon

Families of victims of the Christchurch mosque shootings are continuing their fight to prevent the terrorist from giving evidence at the coronial inquest into their loved ones’ deaths.

Deputy Chief Coroner Brigitte Windley has sought to call Brenton Tarrant as a witness in the second-phase inquest into the deaths of the 51 people massacred at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre on 15 March 2019.

Survivors and victims’ families made their objections heard throughout the inquest and sought judicial review of the decision at the High Court.

Justice Jonathan Eaton dismissed the application in October.

Some of the victims’ families are now appealing that decision to the Court of Appeal, where the matter will be heard next Wednesday.

The notice of appeal claimed Justice Eaton had made several mistakes in dismissing the application for judicial review.

“The High Court erred in finding community abhorrence and the second respondent’s convictions were not proper considerations for a coroner when determining whether to call him as a witness for cross-examination at an inquest into the deaths of 51 people in relation to the 15 March 2019 Christchurch Masjidain Attack,” the notice said.

The victims’ families were appealing Justice Eaton’s entire decision.

They sought three orders:

  • One allowing the appeal.
  • One setting aside deputy chief coroner Windley’s decision to call the terrorist as a witness.
  • And one directing the coroner to reconsider her decision to call the terrorist as a witness and any consequential decisions.

The 35-year-old Australian-born terrorist is serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole for the terror attack.

The second-phase inquest began in October 2024 and is examining how the terrorist came to obtain the guns used in the massacre.

It adjourned part-heard after objections were raised to the terrorist giving evidence.

Deputy Chief Coroner Windley granted interested party status to Tarrant before the inquest, asked him to answer written questions and asked lawyers for survivors and victims’ families – as well as other parties to the inquest – if they wished to cross-examine him.

The terrorist provided two written briefs to the court in September 2024.

The only application to cross-examine him was filed by counsel assisting the coroner.

In dismissing the application for judicial review, Justice Eaton said he had listened to the concerns of victims and their families.

“At a hearing on 14 October 2024, those interested parties opposed Mr Tarrant giving evidence in open court due to the risk of him turning the process into ‘a platform to encourage like-minded individuals into the murderous behaviour of the terrorist’,” he said in a decision released in October.

Justice Jonathan Eaton dismissed the application in October. Pool / Fairfax NZ / Kevin Stent

“They questioned whether Mr Tarrant would provide oral evidence that was reliable or that had not previously been addressed by the Royal Commission of Inquiry. Further, they were concerned the costs and the efforts that would need to be taken to allow Mr Tarrant to give evidence may not be outweighed by any benefit.”

However, Justice Eaton ruled the coroner had not made any error of law.

“Each of the considerations identified by the applicant under the first ground of the review were weighed by the coroner, including those which are arguably not relevant to the admissibility of evidence. The coroner has exercised her judgement in an appropriate manner having regard to the countervailing interests, including public order and safety, as well as the overarching purpose of the inquiry,” Justice Eaton said.

“The alleged errors of law do not withstand scrutiny. They are closely connected and advanced on a flawed premise.

“Parliament has invested in the coroner a very broad discretion as to the evidence to be admitted at an inquiry. That reflects the broad purposes of an inquiry, including not only an investigation into the circumstances of the death, but making of recommendations to avoid a similar future event. Generally, but particularly in a coronial inquiry involving such horrific offending, so many deaths and such great public interest, issues of relevance, necessity or desirability of hearing evidence is very much for an experienced coroner so well versed with the subject matter.

“The extensive powers set out in the Act allow coroners to pursue all lines of inquiry and to weigh the evidence in a holistic manner to ensure findings are both effective and robust. Only then will the determination command the respect of society – this particular determination being one that is of high public interest both domestically and internationally.

“With respect and recognition given to the very sensitive nature of these proceedings, there has been no reviewable error by the coroner.”

The terrorist gave evidence at a Court of Appeal hearing earlier in February in a bid to quash his convictions and sentence.

The terrorist claims he was “forced” to plead guilty to 51 counts of murder, 40 of attempted murder and one of terrorism because he was irrational as a result of torturous and inhumane prison conditions.

The Court of Appeal reserved its decision in that matter after a week-long hearing.

The second-phase inquest is on hold while the decision on the terrorist appearing as a witness is decided in the courts.

The coroner’s first phase inquest, which began in October 2023 and heard further evidence in May and August 2024, covered 10 issues relating to the events of 15 March 2019 and the response of emergency services to the massacre.

It took just minutes for the terrorist to leave 44 worshippers dead or dying at Al Noor Mosque as he possessed two semi-automatic centrefire rifles as well as a multitude of high-capacity magazines, two shotguns, a lever-action rifle and a bolt-action rifle.

He then drove to the mosque in Linwood, where he killed seven more people.

Tarrant was able to obtain a New Zealand firearms licence through a gaming friend who was aware of his extremist political opinions and his racist and Islamophobic beliefs.

The friend and the friend’s father acted as referees.

He had originally planned to use his sister as a referee, but the licensing clerk rejected that possibility because she lived in Australia and could not be interviewed face-to-face.

The terrorist first submitted an application to obtain a firearms licence just 15 days after arriving in New Zealand in August 2017.

At the time of the attacks, the terrorist only held a standard A-category licence, but by inserting the high-capacity magazines into the semi-automatic centrefire rifles, he had turned them into restricted E-category military-style semi-automatic rifles.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/05/fight-continues-to-stop-christchurch-terrorist-from-giving-evidence-at-inquest/

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Second person charged with murder of Pakuranga courier driver

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police in Pakuranga on 19 August 2024. RNZ / Lucy Xia

Police have charged a second person with the murder of a fatally shot Pakuranga courier driver.

Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers said the second man, a 35-year-old, would appear at the Manukau District Court on Thursday, charged with the murder of Tuipulotu Vi.

He said he could not rule out further arrests.

On 19 August 2024, police were called to reports of gun shots on Marvon Downs Avenue at about 6.45am.

Despite efforts, Vi could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.

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What are New Zealand’s global supply chains being disrupted by the US-Iran conflict?

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Hormuz Strait between Iran and Oman carries around a fifth of the world’s oil and a large amount of natural gas, but shipping lanes there have been suspended during the current war. JULIEN DE ROSA / AFP

Explainer – The war raging in the Middle East is affecting supply chains, and New Zealand isn’t immune. What exactly is being disrupted?

There’s a devastating human cost to the conflict, but it’s also worrying many about the impacts on a global economy that’s been battered by years of pandemic, wars and political uncertainty.

With the ongoing conflict between the US, Israel and Iran in the Middle East, the first thing you’re likely to notice in New Zealand is a rise in costs. Here’s why.

Supply chains transport goods by boat, air and over land. RNZ Insight/Philippa Tolley

What are supply chains?

Basically, it’s how things get to you, and in the modern world it’s an intricate web of travel between trains, boats and trucks.

New Zealand is particularly reliant on supply chains thanks to our geographical isolation – anything that comes into the country has to come via boat or air.

A supply chain doesn’t just mean oil – it includes food, dairy, construction materials and even your latest widget ordered from Temu.

A 2023 report conducted for the Treasury described New Zealand’s international supply chains as “thin and stretched,” noting they could become “more costly and exposed to increased disruptions – reducing the efficiency of the New Zealand economy”.

Our economy utterly depends on imports and exports – Stats NZ says New Zealand’s total annual exports hit $80.7 billion in the year ended December 2025.

A family sits against the backdrop of a dockyard off coast city of Fujairah, United Arab Emirates in the Strait of Hormuz on 25 February 2026. GIUSEPPE CACACE / AFP

Hang on, we’re pretty far away, how reliant are we on the Middle East?

Extremely.

You’ll have been hearing a lot about the Hormuz Strait, which is a narrow passageway between the United Arab Emirates, Oman and Iran that is the only way out of the Persian Gulf. It carries around a fifth of the world’s oil and a large amount of natural gas, but shipping lanes there have been mostly suspended during the current war.

The New York Times has reported that just one or two oil and gas tankers are crossing the strait daily this week – typically around 80 do.

One New Zealand logistics company has said it has the equivalent of 4000 cargo containers in transit in that trade lane, all affected by this week’s conflict.

Between 12 to 15 percent of the entire world’s trade also goes through the region’s Suez Canal, and about 30 percent of global container traffic.

Sherelle Kennelly, chief executive of NZ Customs Brokers and Freight Forwarder, told RNZ’s Afternoons that her industry has learned to be flexible.

“Freight forwarders are really good at pivoting and sort of dealing with crises as they come to hand. This has become part of our DNA now.”

The Hormuz Strait is “one of the most critical marine choke points in the world”, she said.

“The escalations and disruptions immediately impact on oil prices, shipping insurance, freight rate and general global supply and trade confidence as well.”

It’s also a big export market for us – the countries making up the Gulf Cooperation Council, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, were our sixth largest export market in the year to June 2025, the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Trade said.

The Meat Industry Association said nearly all our exports to the Gulf Co-operation Council, which were worth $298 million last year, go through Hormuz.

“If Hormuz is closed, congestion and delays will primarily impact chilled exports to the Middle East, which were worth $166 million last year,” an association spokesperson told RNZ.

Petrol prices are likely to rise. RNZ / Dan Cook

Why could prices rise because of this?

Kennelly said backlogs and delays have a ripple effect, even if we may not see it instantly.

“What that means for consumers in New Zealand is delays in shipping, the domino effect of shipping lines, the schedules all go out of whack, and then ultimately the price of fuel increases, the shipping rates increase, and then that just spirals through to the checkout for New Zealanders.”

New Zealand doesn’t import crude oil directly from the Middle East anymore, but a huge amount of the world’s oil comes through there, and it’s all connected in the end.

“The Middle East is a key part of the world’s energy supply and so how that trends will have an impact on fuel prices,” Infometrics chief economist Brad Olsen told Checkpoint recently.

“There is a wider concern here that unlike previous challenges in the Middle East and conflicts that you’ve seen in recent years this one looks much more regional and does seem to be expanding.”

If the war continues, it could even hit your interest rates, one analysis found.

During last year’s conflict with the US bombing Iranian nuclear sites, MFAT issued an analysis noting that: “Rising energy costs would weigh on consumer spending, economic activity, and may force the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to hike interest rates in response”.

“A major geopolitical event, such as an escalating or wider regional conflict in the Middle East, would transmit to the New Zealand economy through several channels,” that report noted.

“Oil markets are thinking that there’s at least three months of possible disruption here,” Olsen said.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis told Morning Report on Wednesday that the overseas conflict and global uncertainty was tough on exporters, but information was being provided to them by the government.

“I do want to acknowledge our exporters have been incredibly adaptable but boy oh boy, is it tough for them.”

A navy vessel is seen sailing in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which much of the world’s oil and gas passes on 1 March, 2026. SAHAR AL ATTAR / AFP

How have past disruptions been handled?

The Middle East region is a vulnerable chokepoint for global commerce, and not always because of war.

In 2021, the Ever Given container ship ran aground and blocked the Suez Canal for six days, creating a massive backlog of ships, and the impacts stretched right through to New Zealand-bound freight.

Houthi militants in Yemen have also repeatedly disrupted trade in the Red Sea by attacking vessels.

Severe droughts affected the Panama Canal, another prime maritime route, in 2023.

New Zealand has looked at ways to make its supply chain more resilient, such as diversifying suppliers, increasing inventory buffers and securing alternative transport routes.

“There is the possibility of exporters using alternative routes that avoid the Strait of Hormuz,” MFAT’s 2025 report noted. “These include overland routes from ports in Oman or Saudi Arabian ports on the Red Sea.”

However, alternate routes are likely to increase transport costs for exporters, MFAT said.

The government’s work to secure free trade deals with India and China has also helped ensure our supply chains don’t have to just rely on the narrow Red Sea corridor.

That doesn’t help businesses caught up in the immediate Iran situation, though.

“For New Zealand exports if they’re already on the water … that stuff can’t be redirected, it’s sitting out there on the water,” Olsen said.

Global trade requires supply chains to work, ultimately.

“We’ve got our products, we’ve got to get our products to market and the markets are not in the New Zealand region,” Kennelly said.

What’s next?

The short answer is, nobody knows exactly what’s going to happen yet with Iran, Israel, the US and several other countries now involved in open conflict, and US President Donald Trump has been criticised by some for a lack of clarity in what the long-term goal is.

“I don’t think anyone could realistically tell you how long this is going to be and what the impact of this long-term or short-term,” Kennelly said.

Export New Zealand executive director Joshua Tan earlier this week told RNZ that exporters keep a close eye on developments.

“Companies learnt some really valuable lessons about resilience during Covid – certainly the need to increase communications up and down the supply chain, improving relationships with customers and also those logistics providers, but then also the need to consider a just-in-case inventory model in markets and holding higher stock levels overseas.”

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Treasury figures show $6 billion deficit for seven months ended January

Source: Radio New Zealand

Treasury figures show the government’s finances are in better shape than expected. RNZ

The government’s finances are in better than expected shape as spending has fallen while the tax take is steady.

Treasury figures, which exclude ACC finances, show a deficit of $6 billion for the seven months ended January, about $1.9b below the December half year forecast.

The deficit including ACC costs was $6.5b, also well below forecast.

The tax take was fractionally lower as dips in company, investment and tobacco charges, were offset by higher income tax receipts.

Expenses were more than a billion dollars lower, as IRD clawed back unpaid tax, spending on core government services, health and environment programmes were lower.

Net debt was slightly lower than expected at 41.9 percent of the value of the economy.

… More to come

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/05/treasury-figures-show-6-billion-deficit-for-seven-months-ended-january/

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Appointment of the Health and Disability Commissioner

Source: New Zealand Government

Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced the reappointment of Ms Morag McDowell as Health and Disability Commissioner.

“Ms McDowell brings extensive legal expertise and significant experience in the health sector. Her reappointment will support the organisation to continue delivering its work in a fair, timely, and effective manner,” Mr Brown says.

“This Government is committed to keeping patients at the centre of our health system. I look forward to working with the Commissioner to further improve services and ensure all New Zealanders receive safe, high-quality healthcare.”

Ms McDowell has been reappointed for a two-year term commencing 7 March 2026.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/appointment-of-the-health-and-disability-commissioner/

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Two arrests following Papakura shooting

Source: New Zealand Police

Two people have been arrested and a firearm recovered following a shooting in Papakura on Saturday morning.

Police were conducting patrols in the Clevedon Road area at the time heard what they believed to be gun shots, and a short time later came across a man with a gunshot injury.

The man was transported to hospital in a moderate condition and has since been discharged.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor, Counties Manukau CIB, says a 23-year-old man and 47-year-old woman have been charged jointly with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and unlawful possession of a restricted weapon.

“The male has been remanded in custody and will reappear in Papakura District Court on 26 March and the female will reappear on 16 March.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we ask that anyone with information which may assist our investigation contact us via 105, quoting file number 260228/8498.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says initial indications are that the victim and the offenders are known to each other and there is no risk to the wider community.

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

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/two-arrests-following-papakura-shooting/

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What is black sesame and is it really the new matcha?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Black sesame is the latest plant-based product to go viral, with its appealing colour and nutty taste.

Social media is full of claims these dark sesame seeds are better for you than the white ones. They’re said to be better at reducing your blood sugar levels, risk of heart disease, and even reversing grey hair.

But is black sesame really the new matcha? You might remember this green tea was another plant-based, viral sensation with potential health benefits.

Unsplash

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/05/what-is-black-sesame-and-is-it-really-the-new-matcha/

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Name release: Fatal crash, Lynfield

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now name the woman who died after a fatal crash on Commodore Drive, Lynfield on 29 January .

She was Marian Elizabeth Kilgour, 83, of Auckland.

Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/05/name-release-fatal-crash-lynfield/

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The calmness factor: Finn Allen’s attitude change pays off for Black Caps

Source: Radio New Zealand

Black Caps opener Finn Allen plays a shot during their T20 Cricket World Cup semifinal against South Africa, in Kolkata on March 4, 2026. AFP

Black Caps hero Finn Allen has developed a calmness about his role as an opener that is paying dividends at the T20 World Cup, the team’s batting coach Luke Ronchi says.

Allen turned New Zealand’s semifinal today into a fireworks display, hitting an unbeaten century in just 33 balls, a T20 World Cup record, as they crushed South Africa by nine wickets in Kolkata.

They will play the winner of tomorrow’s semifinal between England and India in the final in Ahmedabad on Monday NZT.

Allen and fellow opener Tim Seifert blazed away, turning South Africa’s total of 169 for eight into an easy-get, achieving the win in just 12.5 overs for the loss of Seifert’s wicket.

Seifert took on the dominant role to start with, his 58 coming in 33 balls, but Allen gradually increased his pace, finishing with a blitz of four sixes and four fours and a solitary single off the last nine balls he faced, bringing up his century and the victory with a boundary.

“The start Finn and Seif gave us chasing that total was just phenomenal,” Ronchi told Morning Report.

“To see Finn keep going on and play the shots he played the way he did in the moment was just amazing.”

Allen’s form at the World Cup has followed an imperious Big Bash campaign in Australia, where he was [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/584964/finn-allen-s-perth-scorchers-power-to-sixth-big-bash-title the leading scorer with 466 runs for the Perth Scorchers, who won the title in January.

“There is a calmness in situations that he is understanding now,” Ronchi said.

“He can grasp situations of a game or an innings and … if there’s an impactful over or an impactful bowler coming on, he knows trying to get through and play certain shots can be massive in that moment and he’s been doing that beautifully.”

Allen’s combination with Seifert had been “awesome” at the World Cup, Ronchi said.

“They give you impetus starting off an innings like that and the guys behind them can play their way and everyone is complementing each other nicely and hopefully we can do it one more time.”

Ronchi paid tribute to the bowlers, who had pinned down South Africa’s batters.

“The bowlers in general did a fantastic job to restrict South Africa to what we did.”

Rachin Ravindra (L) and Finn Allen celebrate the Black Caps’ win over South Africa in their T20 Cricket World Cup semi-final match in Kolkata on March 4, 2026. AFP

He said the preparation leading up to the tournament had been vital in helping the players understand the different styles of cricket needed on differing surfaces.

“We’ve been here now for two months, we’ve played some cricket in Sri Lanka, we’ve played in India, we’ve played on lots of differing grounds.

“That’s always going to help you, because you understand the style of cricket you want to play.”

Ronchi said the team were unconcerned about who their opponents in the final might be.

“Everyone is prepared to face whoever it’s going to be,” he said, adding they knew they had to adapt to the opposition and whatever the surface and conditions in Ahmedabad might be.

It was important the Black Caps grasp all the excitement and lead up to the final.

“You need to embrace it and own it,” Ronchi said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/the-calmness-factor-finn-allens-attitude-change-pays-off-for-black-caps/

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Upgraded women’s leadership database launched

Source: New Zealand Government

A new-look database to advance women’s progress into leadership roles has been launched to mark International Women’s Day.

Minister for Women Nicola Grigg says there is growing evidence that having qualified women on public and private boards strengthens decision-making, governance and financial performance.

“Women leaders play a critical role in a productive economy and New Zealand’s long-term growth and resilience. That’s why we are providing tools like BoardConnector to drive meaningful change to women’s representation.

“For the first time, private sector businesses across the country will have access to a pool of governance-ready leaders and aspiring leaders will be supported with training and resources to progress to governance roles.”

The proportion of female directors in NZX-listed firms has increased markedly since 2016, but women hold only 31 percent of private-sector director positions. Public sector boards and committees comprise about 50 percent women.

“Driving women into higher paid governance roles helps improve their economic empowerment, and reduces the gender pay gap and retirement savings gaps,” Ms Grigg says.

“We are growing the economy so that all New Zealanders are better placed to cope with the cost of living through more job opportunities and higher wages, and we’re pulling out all the stops to improve the economic outcomes of women and girls across New Zealand.”

Women interested in governance are encouraged to join BoardConnector and be part of building New Zealand’s future leadership capability. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/upgraded-womens-leadership-database-launched/

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Tāiko Critical Minerals debuts on NZX

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tāiko Critical Minerals debuts on the NZX on Thursday. RNZ / Angus Dreaver

  • Australian controlled mining company Tāiko Critical Minerals to list on NZ stock exchange (NZX)
  • Company planning heavy minerals mining venture near Greymouth, production in 2028
  • NZX listing aimed at widening investor base
  • Selected wholesale NZ investors offered shares
  • Taiko plans to raise more capital later in year

An Australian controlled company, Tāiko Critical Minerals, debuts on the NZX today, offering local investors a chance to participate in the company’s West Coast mining venture.

The company plans to mine rare earth heavy metals from farmland at Barrytown near Greymouth, using what it calls a rehabilitative mining process.

Chief executive Robert Brand said the NZX listing was aiming to strengthen its long term finances, and introduce local investors.

“Expanding our investor base and having greater access to growth capital are critical enablers of our plans to extract from a ‘world class’ deposit in an emerging high-value sector for the New Zealand economy, and to deliver long-term value for our shareholders.”

Taiko, originally named Tiga Resources, is targeting ilmenite, garnet, zircon, rutile and rare earth element concentrates, which it says are present in high quantities at the site.

The minerals will be extracted and processed at nearby Rapahoe, before export.

Following capital raising, construction and commissioning of the extraction and separation facilities will take place in 2027 ahead of commercial production in 2028.

Brand said the venture would provide jobs and revenue for the local community.

“In the year ahead we’ll be employing the first group of 135 workers, with a further 189 support roles expected in future. “

“There are also quite a few houses to build and plant to be constructed ahead of an expected $11.8 million in local wages and $112.5m in annual export earnings, so there is a lot to look forward to as this project starts to get up and running.”

Brand said Taiko would be looking to raise new capital later in the year, and had already sold shares to New Zealand wholesale investors.

The majority of the company’s shares are owned by Australian investors. The shares have been valued at 11 NZ cents each.

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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/2026/03/05/taiko-critical-minerals-debuts-on-nzx/

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Fatal fire, Ōtāhuhu

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, Counties Manukau West CIB:

At around 9pm last night reports were received that a property on Tamaki Ave, Ōtāhuhu was on fire.

Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand attended the scene with an investigation now underway.

At this stage we can advise that one person was located deceased inside the property.

Police are working to establish what has occurred and will remain on scene.

Anyone with information can contact Police online or call 105 using the reference number 260305/4989.

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

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/fatal-fire-otahuhu/

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Person killed in fire at Auckland home

Source: Radio New Zealand

The scene of the fire this morning. RNZ / FELIX WALTON

Police are at the scene of a fatal fire in Ōtāhuhu.

A scene guard is outside the house and officers are going door-to-door.

A Fire and Emergency investigator is also at the scene.

RNZ understands a person died in a sleep-out on the property.

Firefighters were called just before 9pm on Wednesday.

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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/2026/03/05/person-killed-in-fire-at-auckland-home/

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Pharmac warns unpredictable supply means ADHD drug shortage expected all year

Source: Radio New Zealand

AFP / Thom Leach / Science Photo Library

Pharmac says shortages in some ADHD drugs are expected to last throughout 2026.

Its Chief Medical Officer, Dr David Hughes, in a statement to told Nine to Noon, rising demand and manufacturing constraints meant supply remains unpredictable.

The drug option most affected is methylphenidate, used in branded treatments such as Ritalin,and Concerta.

Pharmac has funded a new brand of methylphenidate along with an alternative medication, Lisdexamfetamine.

ADHD New Zealand says clinicians have identified that children and adolescents need priority access to slow release methylphenidate and have suggested prescribing alternative medications for any newly diagnosed adults.

Wellington GP Dr Michael Buckley, who has a special interest in ADHD, is predicting even further demand for the medicines as more people are diagnosed.

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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/2026/03/05/pharmac-warns-unpredictable-supply-means-adhd-drug-shortage-expected-all-year/

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Operation Block: Further man charged over homicide

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have charged another person in an ongoing homicide investigation following the death of a courier driver in Pakuranga Heights.

Operation Block commenced on 19 August 2024 to investigate the murder of 59-year-old Tuipulotu Vi on Marvon Downs Avenue.

Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers, of Counties Manukau CIB, says: “Police have charged a 35-year-old Waiuku man with murder.

“This is the second man to appear in court over Mr Vi’s death and we cannot rule out further arrests being made in this investigation.”

The 35-year-old man will appear in the Manukau District Court today.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/operation-block-further-man-charged-over-homicide/

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Arrest following serious assault, Frankton

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Inspector Andrea McBeth, Hamilton City Area Commander:

A man is before the courts following a serious assault in Hamilton yesterday.

At around 7am, Police were notified of an assault in High Street, Frankton.

Upon arrival, a man was located with serious injuries and transported to hospital.

Police made enquiries throughout the day and at around 2pm, the alleged offender from this violent and unprovoked attack was located in Melville and taken into custody.

A 35-year-old man will appear in the Hamilton District Court today, 5 March, charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assaults Police.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/arrest-following-serious-assault-frankton/

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NZ Defence Force planes on standby for Middle East evacuations

Source: Radio New Zealand

Two NZDF planes are on standby to head to the Middle East for evacuation operations. NZDF/Jalesa Normani

The government is getting ready to send consular staff and two NZ Defence Force (NZDF) planes to the Middle East in preparation for evacuation operations.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters says New Zealanders in the Middle East should continue to shelter in place, or take safe and practical opportunities to leave.

He says it’s unclear when and how any civilian evacuation operation might be possible, but wants to be ready if and when conditions on the ground make them possible.

  • Are you in an affected area? Email us iwitness@rnz.co.nz

Peters says when conditions allow, NZDF planes will help New Zealanders get to locations where they can get on commercial flights home. He says they will not be long flights.

The minister says at the speed at which potentially thousands of people need to be moved, it’s better they are taken to a safer place as fast as possible.

Defence Minister Judith Collins says exactly where the consular response team and two NZDF C-130J aircraft will be deployed is still to be decided.

There are 3000 New Zealanders registered with MFAT as living in the Middle East.

Emirates flight to Auckland going ahead

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade says an Emirates airline flight from Dubai to Auckland is scheduled to go ahead today.

The government is seeking urgent updates from airlines to confirm the resumption of flights from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to New Zealand.

More than 20,000 flights globally have been cancelled because of conflict in the Middle East.

MFAT advises passengers booked on the Emirates flight to contact the airline or their travel agent.

Foreign Minister Winston Peters RNZ/Calvin Samuel

It is offering to help travellers who are having problems with travel documents.

Meanwhile, aviation commentator and chief executive of Auckland’s Ardmore Flying School Irene King told Morning Report, it was likely there would be disruptions to flights to Europe, Africa and the Middle East for some time.

“Dubai is such a massive global hub… it’s not going to be easy because you’re going to have so much disruption.”

King said there would now be quite a lot of nervousness about flying over the Middle East which could mean a higher demand for Europe flights which went past Singapore or Hong Kong.

She said those flights were likely to be pretty full.

“It’s going to be challenging to get into Europe for quite a period of time.

“I think we’ll start to see other carriers [from Asia] potentially putting more volume down into Australasia because they will be acutely aware of people wanting to travel to Europe and not over the Middle East.”

King said it was likely there would be a lot more screening going on at airports in the Middle East.

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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/2026/03/05/nz-defence-force-planes-on-standby-for-middle-east-evacuations/