Category: DJF

Posted on

Fast-track Decision Looms on Destructive Waitaha Hydo Scheme

Source: Green Party

The Green Party says the Fast Track expert panel should turn down the previously declined ‘Waitaha Hydro’ project, which if approved will destroy an internationally significant South Island river.

An application to dam the river as part of the ‘Waitaha Hydro project’ was declined in 2019 by the Minister for the Environment David Parker. It was shown then to offer little benefit to New Zealand, while causing significant impacts on the natural character of the wild Waitaha River and Morgan Gorge, the intrinsic value of the area, and people’s enjoyment of it.

Green Party Environment spokesperson MP Lan Pham says they are expecting a release on the Waitaha Fast-track hydro application today, based on comments from the panel chair during a recent hearing.

“The only people to benefit from this zombie project being resurrected from the dead are to its investors. It is a cynical manipulation of democracy to try and get a different result through the Fast Track process after it was already declined through an earlier, more robust process.”

“This project wouldn’t even be ‘fast’ to get going – the project backers want 15 years to build the thing. Using the Fast Track process is a transparent misuse of the legislation and a big middle finger to Aotearoa NZ.”

“The Waitaha river flows through conservation land. The area is home to over 25 native bird species, including kea, kākā and kārearea, whio, and long-tailed bats, and forest and green geckos.”

“The Department of Conservation themselves have said “the Waitaha Valley has ecological, landscape and recreational values of local, regional, national and international significance.”

“It is DOC’s view that the proposal will result in the fundamental loss of natural character, solitude and remoteness that underpin the Waitaha Valley characteristics of a back country-remote zone.”

Pham says along with irreversibly destroying the wild character of area, the project fails to meet any sensible economic threshold.

“There are already consented, unbuilt hydro schemes on the West Coast, that wouldn’t do the damage that this project would. The proposed cost has doubled to $200 million, while only providing power for 12,000 homes. That’s about $20,000 per household – money which could be used to expand nearby solar projects, or other modern technology solutions which don’t rely on destroying our remaining wild places.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/fast-track-decision-looms-on-destructive-waitaha-hydo-scheme/

Posted on

Wellington Council budget cuts would ruin capital city’s green reputation

Source: Green Party

The Green Party is astounded to read a Wellington City Council working group’s newly released cost-cutting proposal which includes major slash and burn cuts to climate change and transport.

“Our city has been internationally recognised for its leadership in reducing emissions and transforming our transport system. This cost-cutting proposal completely guts that reputation and decades of good Green mahi within the council” says Green Party Wellington Central MP, Tamatha Paul. 

“Wellington’s competitive factor is that we are a green city in every sense of the word. There is no stronger mandate for bold climate action than right here in Pōneke. We are one of the only cities in the world where native wildlife is increasing and we are among the highest pubic and active transport users in the country.”

“Our city’s climate emissions have dropped for the first time in a long time, including vehicle emissions which are our biggest emissions, and public and active transport use is up. This didn’t happen by accident. It’s because we took action that the Council seeks to abandon.”

“I was so proud to be a part of the Council that ushered in the plan to become a carbon zero capital city by 2050. This is being gutted by the current leadership in council.”

“Mayor Little must not fall into the classic local government trap of putting short-term thinking before trying to mitigate the climate catastrophe we are seeing all across the country. It’s right in front of our eyes.” says Tamatha Paul.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/wellington-council-budget-cuts-would-ruin-capital-citys-green-reputation/

Posted on

DOC backtracks after accusations it was illegally closing popular track

Source: Radio New Zealand

Harwoods Hole on Takaka Hill Supplied – Department of Conservation

The Department of Conservation (DOC) has u-turned on its closure of the track to the country’s deepest natural sinkhole.

Harwoods Hole, which is a nearly 180-metre deep vertical shaft, is part of a cave system in the Abel Tasman National Park.

It’s estimated that up to 4000 people use the track each year.

The Department of Conservation closed the track to the site last month, citing safety risks. It warned that the area around Harwoods Hole has unstable rock and significant fall hazards, where slipping could be fatal.

It caused public backlash, with a collective of recreational groups claiming shutting the track was illegal and threatened legal action if DOC did not take down any material saying the track was shut.

DOC has since said it will no longer be providing a marked track to Harwoods Hole or promoting it as a managed visitor site.

DOC Golden Bay operations manager Ross Trotter said on Friday the department has updated wording on its website and will be updating the temporary signage to reflect this.

“We’ve taken these steps because the experience being offered at this site, including the hazards, and the type of visitor it was appealing to, did not match,” Trotter said.

He said people can still access the area at their own risk. However, DOC will not be actively managing visitor access or mitigating natural hazards at the site.

“Heavy promotion on social media and by third parties has set unrealistic expectations and implies viewing of Harwoods Hole from the track is possible, but it’s not. It’s not possible to look down Harwoods Hole from the top of the hole, as it flares out at the top entrance, or from anywhere on the track,” Trotter said.

“We appreciate that some people feel strongly about this place, but our first responsibility is ensuring visitors understand and can safely manage the risks involved.”

Federated Mountain Clubs of New Zealand president Megan Dimozantos said she received an email from DOC on Friday afternoon to confirm that the track is not closed, but that it will no longer be maintained.

“It’s all about words,” she told Checkpoint. “The use of the word closed has a different legal implication to the use of the words no longer maintained.”

Dimozantos said Section 13 of the Conservation Act only allows for closures of public conservation land where there is an emergency or inherent public risk.

“Obviously, this didn’t meet that very high threshold and we appreciate DOC taking measures to rectify the communication of the situation.”

Dimozantos believes there was an element of safety overreach.

“DOC’s role is not to wrap our public in cotton wool. It is to inform the public of what the risks might be at a particular site and allow the public to make their own decisions about whether they’d like to proceed or not.”

Dimozantos said the case has highlighted a number of other sites where similar “inappropriate” closures are in place.

The group is currently collating that information from the public and will address that with DOC as a separate matter.

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/2026/03/13/doc-backtracks-after-accusations-it-was-illegally-closing-popular-track/

Posted on

Students struggle to pay rent and buy food amid loan payment delays

Source: Radio New Zealand

Many students are worried over paying their expenses as they wait for their delayed student loan payments. Tri Wiranto/Unsplash

Stressed out students are struggling to pay rent, buy food and take the bus to class because their student loan applications are still not processed, weeks after courses began.

But the Ministry of Social Development, which runs StudyLink, said nearly all the applications made before its cut off date have been approved – and it’s tracking better than last year.

An Otago University student, who didn’t want to be named, applied for her student loan before December 16, which StudyLink’s website said was a very important date: “It’s a date students just can’t miss, it allows us to manage the volume of applications and help them get organised for the start of their study year.”

But she has still not received her loan payments.

“My savings are not gonna last that long, it’s really tough,” she said.

“I’m flatting this year, which means I need to obviously constantly make payments for … rent, and power … not having a steady income from allowance or loan, it’s just been really tough.”

Her mum Louise said her daughter had been without income for about three weeks, since the Jobseeker hardship grant she got over summer stopped.

“She’s very, very stressed,” she said.

“Currently we are supporting her financially, which again is quite stressful on us as well.”

Her daughter’s application had been in “final processing” for three weeks, she said.

“From what I believe or understand, everything has been done at our end and everything has been done at their end, they’ve got all the information they need.

“So what is this hold up?”

She was one of many parents and students in a social media group sharing their frustration about the delays and problems getting through to Studylink on the phone.

Amelia Bethell, who’s studying at the University of Auckland, applied on 14 January – later than the date Studylink was pushing for – because she had heard applications had quietened down by then, and it might get processed faster.

She had heard nothing since.

“After two months of calling, I finally got through to them on Wednesday and pretty much they said, ‘oh, it looks like your documents just haven’t been sent off, they’re sitting here, they’ve been sitting here since you sent them’.

“And they said they would put them through to process them.”

Studylink then asked her to resend some documents, she said.

Bethell felt lucky to have a scholarship that pays for her student accommodation, and a fees-free course, but she was struggling with day to day living costs.

“If I miss getting … a packed lunch from my halls, then I don’t eat all day because I can’t afford to just go and get food,” she said.

“My parents have been trying to send me just little bits that they can so I can catch the bus to go to my classes and to get home.”

But that was not easy for them, she said.

“My family’s a low-income family and it’s taking the money away from them, helping support my sister and my brother that live with them.”

Other students in her hall were worried about being kicked out of university because they could not pay their fees, Bethell said.

Most applications complete – StudyLink

The Ministry’s centralised services general manager, Paula Ratahi O’Neill, said students who applied by 16 December should “overwhelmingly” have had their applications wrapped up.

“A total of 87.5% of these applications have now been finalised. Completion peaks at between 88% and 90% each year because some students may submit an application but not complete it,” she said.

It was still working on about a third of applications made after 16 December.

On both counts, that was a better track record than last year, Ratahi O’Neill said.

“Processing of all applications is ahead of last year, with more completed, despite receiving more applications than last year. Around 11,000 more students have applied for student support compared to last year.”

Ratahi O’Neill said StudyLink’s still receiving thousands of applications each week, and staff have been working overtime since October to support more students.

She confirmed students would be backpaid, and said anyone who’s struggling students should contact them.

Student associations advocating for students

Victoria University Students’ Association president Aidan Donoghue said up to fifteen students had been in touch this academic year struggling with Studylink delays meaning they can’t pay their fees.

“We’ve been advocating within the university, pleading the case … and the university’s very receptive, and they’re very understanding of it not being within the students’ control, and have set up some more links to have representatives from Studylink be at campus, particularly during O-week, to get things sorted in person.”

Other student associations had also seen an increase in students reporting StudyLink application delays.

They acknowledged there were a number of factors at play, including application dates, and waiting for universities to verify students’ studies and grades.

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://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/students-struggle-to-pay-rent-and-buy-food-amid-loan-payment-delays/

Posted on

Cricket: Seven decades since one of New Zealand’s biggest wins

Source: Radio New Zealand

John Reid in 2015 in his study surrounded by memorabilia from his cricketing career. Supplied / Lisa Thompson

This week’s one of despair for New Zealand cricket lovers, after the Black Caps were outclassed in the T20 World Cup final.

But, today is a special anniversary in cricket history – it’s 70 years since New Zealand won its first test match, after 26 years of trying.

The victory over the West Indies at Auckland’s Eden Park came in the 45th attempt, going back to January 1930. They’d suffered 22 losses and drawn 22.

As the victorious cricketers walked off Eden Park many in the crowd jumped the fence and swarmed their heroes.

Among the fans sprinting to the middle was 11-year-old Anand Satyanand.

The future governor-general of New Zealand, now Sir Anand, rushed to see history unfold as it seemed the game was heading for a tight finish.

“I went from Richmond Road School with a small group of friends,” he said.

“We were a cricket-mad school, as I recollect, and from Richmond Road one caught the bus to the reservoir on the corner of Ponsonby and Great North Road and then walked along and across the gully to Eden Park.”

The Right Hon. Sir Anand Satyanand, former Governor General of New Zealand. RNZ

Once there he was among those snapped by press photographers capturing the euphoric scenes.

“I was sitting on the terraces with my friend Ken Pratt… and clearly in a moment of excitement we jumped the fence and walked across the ground, hence that photograph that appeared in the New Zealand Herald of the two teams coming off the field, surrounded by a group of cricketing followers.”

A copy of that now hangs in Sir Anand’s laundry. In the picture he’s carrying his school satchel over his shoulder.

It was a low-scoring match – both teams scored at less than 2 runs an over – and the West Indies on the final day needed 268 runs to win the series four-nil.

But the New Zealanders, especially medium fast bowlers Harry Cave and Don Beard, took advantage of the tricky conditions and bowled them out for 77.

The New Zealand line-up even included former West Indies player Sammy Guillen, but was missing the great batsman of the era, Bert Sutcliffe, who played 42 tests but was never once on a winning side.

Expectations heading into the game were low. The West Indies had thrashed New Zealand in the three preceding tests and it was only a year since New Zealand was humiliated – bowled out for 26 by England, still a world-record low score.

It was quite the turnaround. At the after-match presentations captain John Reid was hailed as a hero, as the crowd gave him more than one round of three cheers.

He later said it was the best day of his cricket career – the non-drinker even tasting champagne during the celebrations.

“For once it wasn’t us who bowled that one loose ball each over, or who dropped the vital catch,” he told journalist Joseph Romanos in their 2000 book, John Reid – A Cricketing Life.

Former New Zealand cricketer John F Reid. PHOTOSPORT

Bill Frith, who was then 10, remembers watching as much of the match as he could, rushing there on the final day from Mt Roskill Intermediate.

In those days you’d get into the last session for free.

“I remember being on the terraces, which were grass at that time. It was quite a good-looking ground at that time, and I can remember the jubilation at the end, with the players pulling the stumps out and souveniring them and and that sort of thing.”

Still years until daylight saving arrived, the players were battling the gloom, but New Zealand had conditions in its favour.

“In those days you could go out and inspect the pitch. And the pitch there, around where the ball pitched, was sort of like corrugated iron,” Frith said.

“I’d be interested to know what it was like on the day we bowled the West Indies out.”

The Press newspaper described the bedlum: “It was a memorable scene at the end. The ground, all green and gold, was besieged by the crowd of 7000 that watched the final act…

“The crowd, savouring to the full the flavour of the occasion, had not fully dispersed when the teams left the ground an hour later.”

Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack even reported local offices closing early to let workers head to the ground as victory drew near.

Frith and Sir Anand both thought the win might herald a period of success, but it wasn’t to be, and New Zealand struggled at cricket until the 1970s, not winning another test until the 1961-2 summer.

Since then the team has risen to be one of the best in the world – a long innings the pair have enjoyed watching.

Both men fondly remember watching cricket history take place.

“I follow cricket today, but not with the day-to-day enthusiasm of when I was 10 and 12,” Frith said.

“I used to go down to Eden Park and watch all the club games. I used to go and watch the Black Caps practice, and they’d sometimes bowl to me.

“I was the archetypal cricket tragic at that time.”

Sir Anand was similar, although he said his playing ability never matched his enthusiasm.

“I think it was a vital turn of the road for New Zealand cricket to to be able to foot it against a major cricket playing nation and to win,” he said.

“New Zealand had been treated as a rather secondary sort of member of the world cricket fraternity.

“England and Australia only played us on an irregular basis, but the victory against the West Indies was a pointer to the the modern game, where New Zealand is a contender that is treated very seriously.”

SCORES: New Zealand 255 (John Reid 84, Tom Dewdney 5-21) and 157-9 declared (Denis Atkinson 7-53) beat West Indies 145 (Hammond Furlonge 64, Tony MacGibbon 4-44, Harry Cave 4-22) and 77 (Cave 4-21, Don Beard 3-22).

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://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/cricket-seven-decades-since-one-of-new-zealands-biggest-wins/

Posted on

UPDATE – Aggravated robbery, Whanganui, seeking to identify

Source: New Zealand Police

Media are advised that Police have now identified the people sought in images from a releas this afternoon about an aggravated robbery in Castlecliff, Whanganui.

We would ask media to therefore please now remove these photos from any reporting.

Enquiries into the robbery are ongoing.

ENDS

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/13/update-aggravated-robbery-whanganui-seeking-to-identify/

Posted on

Taskforce Morpheus: Arrests made, firearms seized

Source: New Zealand Police

New Zealand Police have targeted Comanchero members and associates as part of coordinated enforcement activity across Australasia targeting the gang’s criminal operations.

Three men have been arrested, with items seized including an AR-15 rifle, cash and methamphetamine.

Taskforce Morpheus is a working group of law enforcement agencies across Australia and New Zealand that focus on the targeting and disruption of illegal activity by organised criminal groups.

Last week, the National Day of Action targeted the Comanchero Motorcycle Club, and saw nine Police districts carry out enforcement activity, supported by the National Organised Crime Group and the National Gang Unit.

Police charged three men who are members or associates of the gang and laid 14 charges for drugs and firearms offending.

In Tokoroa, Bay of Plenty staff searched three addresses with the assistance of the Armed Offenders Squad.

Five firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, were recovered along with cannabis and a kilogram of a substance believed to be methamphetamine.

Two men, aged 36 and 39, were arrested without incident during the warrants.

Around the country, Police also worked with the Department of Corrections given the number of members currently in custody.

Director of the National Organised Crime Group, Detective Superintendent Greg Williams says the Comancheros remain of interest to law enforcement agencies.

“This gang is seen as one of the top organised crime groups in both Australia and New Zealand for their involvement in the importation and distribution of cocaine, methamphetamine and other illegal drugs,” he says.

“They remain a focus for us, and through our investigative work we continue to find their members and associates involved in a large number of importations, alongside their propension for committing serious violence to maintain control over the market.”

Police continue to work with law enforcement agencies in New Zealand and abroad to combat the Comanchero’s influence globally.

“We are focused on taking their influence out of New Zealand, and we have had many successes since the gang established operations here through Operations Nova and Embargo,” Detective Superintendent Williams says.

“Nearly all of the gang’s members and associates have been prosecuted, and this includes its entire senior leadership team that are all facing serious charges.”

Director Prisoners of Extreme Risk Directorate, Jeanette Burns says a large number of cells were searched across six prisons in New Zealand.

“Across those prisons a large amount of tobacco was located, alongside quantities of suspected illicit drugs,” says Jeanette.

“Some prisoners go to extreme and elaborate lengths to continue offending from prison. Our staff work hard to stop contraband entering our prisons, and when we do find it we take this extremely seriously.

“Corrections does not tolerate any criminal behaviour in our prisons, and we continue to work with our partners to stamp out this offending and the harm it causes to our communities.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/taskforce-morpheus-arrests-made-firearms-seized/

Posted on

Education – Ara celebrates milestone as 900 graduates cross the stage

Source: Ara Institute of Canterbury

Ara Institute of Canterbury has marked a major milestone in its return to independent status, with over 900 graduates filling Ōtautahi’s Wolfbrook Arena in two vibrant Autumn ceremonies on Friday 13 March.
A total of 1800 ākonga (students) were eligible to graduate this year, with half choosing to walk across the stage in front of whānau, friends and staff. The arena was filled twice over with waiata, haka and standing ovations as Ara celebrated its first graduation ceremonies since becoming a standalone polytechnic once again.
Graduates represented a wide range of disciplines – from construction management and engineering to cookery, early childhood education, business and broadcasting. The cohort included 65 postgraduate awardees, 586 bachelor’s degree or graduate diploma recipients, and 1123 graduates completing certificates and diplomas at Levels 4-6.
Associate Director of Māori Success Tate Tiatia opened the ceremony by acknowledging the collective effort behind each and every ākonga’s story.
“Achievement doesn’t come easily. It doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes effort and support. Be proud. You can move forward in confidence to navigate new environments and seek out new horizons,” she said.
One of the most moving moments came as the arena fell silent to honour two deaf graduates. Hands shimmered across the stands in New Zealand Sign Language as Danielle Elliott and Liberty Francis received their New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing.
Elliott said the sense of community had defined her study experience. “Having that connection and family environment was the main thing. We had a great class vibe,” she said.
Mother and son graduates Linda Glasgow ( Diploma in Business – Leadership & Management) and Jack Glasgow ( Diploma in Construction – Quantity Surveying) were delighted to be marking the moment together.
“I wasn’t going to do graduation but to be able to do it with Jack is really special,” Linda said.
Jack, on leave from his graduate role with Seipp Construction, said it was “great to see mum’s achievements rewarded”.
Bachelor of Applied Science (Nutrition) graduate Lani Pitcher led the morning ceremony.
A previous recipient of Ara’s Eke Panuku Māori – Transformation Award, she will return to Taranaki this weekend to begin a role with Hāto Hone St John.
“I came here as a single mother with a one-year-old son and a big dream. I wasn’t just starting study – I was starting over,” she said.
“I’m grateful to Ara for creating a place that welcomes people from all walks of life, where learners can grow, where doors open, and where we are encouraged to bring our full, authentic selves into our study.”
Ara’s new board chair, Hugh Lindo, said the ceremonies marked a proud moment for the organisation under Chief Executive Darren Mitchell.
“We’re excited to be working with Darren and his team as we plot Ara’s future in a way that ensures we meet the expectations of learners and the industries they will join.
“Our team will be doing all it can to provide the best vocational opportunities to our ākonga and give them the tools they need to be successful in a diverse and ever-changing world.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/education-ara-celebrates-milestone-as-900-graduates-cross-the-stage/

Posted on

Has the Middle East war reached a worst-case scenario?

Source: Radio New Zealand

A photo illustration of a Brent crude oil price chart displayed on a screen. (File photo) AFP / Jonathan Raa / NurPhoto

War in the Middle East might have developed beyond US President Donald Trump’s ability to end it at whim, but has it yet reached a worst-case scenario?

Bloomberg reported on Friday that “international and US efforts to mollify oil markets continued to fail in the face of the long-feared worst-case scenario”.

Iran had pledged to keep the Strait of Hormuz effectively shut.

New Zealand commentators said the situation was deteriorating with each day that passed – but could it yet be called a worst-case scenario?

Mike Jones, chief economist at BNZ, said there were still a wide range of scenarios at play.

“I think what we’ve seen over the past few days is markets adjust expectations around the length and impact of this conflict. Oil prices have continued to grind higher since Tuesday’s brief reprieve, and global bond yields are rising as a bigger inflation shock is factored in. That’s not a growth-friendly mix, although the magnitude of any impact is still highly uncertain.

“I think what is clear is that every day the Strait is closed the risk to the global and domestic economies rises. And even when shipping does resume, it looks as if it will take some time for energy trade to recover. That means we could see some sort of risk premium built into oil prices for a longer period.”

Kelly Eckhold, chief economist at Westpac, said it was a “very serious situation” that was unprecedented outside the 1970s oil embargo period.

“Our analysis last week showed that the economic impacts would scale up significantly the longer the straits are closed. There will be an accumulating shortage of crude oil in Asian jurisdictions which is where we source our refined products. And the reality is you can’t refine and export what you can’t access.

“Right now, the impacts are modest. We have fuel inventories on hand and new supplies seem to be arriving as usual. Business has likely not needed to do much more than prepare contingency plans. Consumers are noticing an uncomfortable rise in fuel prices that hasn’t extended beyond the experience of the last few years. However, that will change as the closure period grows. Crude oil and refined product will become scarcer and more expensive and cause increasing economic losses.”

Westpac chief economist Kelly Eckhold. (File photo) Newshub

At Otago University, Murat Ungor said he did not think the situation was yet a “worst-case scenario” – because things could still get “considerably worse”.

“What is likely happening is anchoring to recent experience: oil has traded in the US$70-95 range since August 2022, so breaking US$100 feels dramatic relative to that baseline. To put this in historical context, we have seen far more extreme oil price environments. During the 2008 financial crisis, Brent crude reached US$147/barrel.

“Or, following the 2019 Abqaiq attack on Saudi facilities, markets briefly priced in severe supply disruption scenarios.

“A genuine worst-case oil scenario would involve several interrelated factors not yet observed.

“First, a large-scale physical supply disruption. Second, prices rising to US$150 to US$200 per barrel and remaining there some weeks or even a few months. Third, cascading macroeconomic effects: global recession, stagflation, and supply-chain paralysis as transport costs make moving goods uneconomical. Finally, severe demand destruction, with airlines grounding fleets, industrial production halting, and possible fuel rationing in major economies – surely, this is a part of the worst-case scenario.”

He said the current prices did not reflect worst-case outcomes.

“I think we are in a regime of significantly elevated risk rather than a worst-case realisation. That captures the seriousness without overstating where we currently stand.”

Sign up for Money with Susan Edmunds, a weekly newsletter covering all the things that affect how we make, spend and invest money

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/13/has-the-middle-east-war-reached-a-worst-case-scenario/

Posted on

Person hit by truck in Pukekohe

Source: Radio New Zealand

A person has been hit by a truck on Titi Road. Google Maps

A pedestrian has been hit by a truck in Mauku, west of Pukekohe.

Police say initial information is that the person is critically injured.

The crash happened at 3.22pm on Titi Road.

The road is closed and emergency services are at the scene.

The Serious Crash Unit and Commercial Vehicle Safety Team will also be attending.

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/2026/03/13/person-hit-by-truck-in-pukekohe/

Posted on

‘Explosive substance’ in Christchurch a jar of crystallized picric acid

Source: Radio New Zealand

The police cordon at Sheffield Crescent in Christchurch on Thursday. RNZ/Anna Sargent

An “explosive substance” that resulted in the evacuation of part of a Christchurch suburb was a jar of crystallized picric acid, the Defence Force says.

Police sent an emergency mobile alert and put up cordons around Sheffield Crescent in Burnside after being alerted to the substance shortly before 2.30pm on Thursday.

A number of businesses were evacuated, with cordons lifting at 7pm.

A Defence Force spokesperson said an explosive ordnance disposal team found the jar after responding to a request for assistance from police.

“The item was investigated and determined to be a jar of crystallized picric acid, which was removed and disposed of in a safe manner,” they said.

“Picric acid is a yellow substance historically used for dye production and other medical uses. When it becomes old, or is not stored correctly, it dries out and crystallizes, becoming a sensitive explosive which is not safe for transportation.

“Anyone who discovers a potentially dangerous item, should always exercise caution until the item is deemed safe by an expert. If you do discover something that might be dangerous, remain clear of the item and contact New Zealand Police as soon as possible.”

The mobile alert advised people to evacuate immediately.

“All members of the public are advised to immediately evacuate the area in the vicinity of Sheffield Cres Burnside Christchurch and surrounding area due to high-risk explosive substance located,” the alert said.

Police later said the substance had been “made safe”.

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/2026/03/13/explosive-substance-in-christchurch-a-jar-of-crystallized-picric-acid/

Posted on

Report into Moa Point wastewater plant failure to be released next week

Source: Radio New Zealand

Signs on Wellington’s South Coast about the wastewater spill. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Wellington mayor Andrew Little says details from a preliminary report into the failure of the Moa Point wastewater plant will be made public next week.

The news comes just over five weeks out from when a massive backflow of sewage flooded the plant, shutting it down, damaging equipment and resulting in millions of litres of untreated sewage being pumped into the ocean off the city’s south coast.

“A draft report has been received by Wellington Water and provided this week to WCC. The report is an externally-prepared preliminary technical report on hydraulic issues related to the flood event at the Moa Point Wastewater Treatment Plant.

“Officers are working through the report, and we expect to give an update to the public mid next week,” Little said.

The move marks a shift in the publication of findings into the plant’s failure.

Two days ago, Wellington Water confirmed the report had been handed to Wellington City Council officers, but would not be made public while the Crown review into the plant’s failure was taking place.

At a public meeting in the wake of the shutdown last month, Wellington Water chief operating officer Charles Barker told attendees he could not discuss the cause of the failure with a Crown review imminent and insurance processes underway.

“So, if at times I appear guarded, or I’m taking a bit longer to think, that’s because I’m probably getting close to that point where I have to be careful not to jeopardise any future inquiry, and especially everyone’s insurance,” Barker said.

The sentiment was echoed by Mayor Little, who, at the same meeting, said he was unable to discuss the cost to fix the stricken facility and who would pay.

“There’s a whole bunch of insurance claims being made by all sorts of parties.

Wellington mayor Andrew Little. RNZ / Mark Papalii

“I suspect insurance companies don’t want to do anything until they have a fair idea about what the possible cause is,” Little said.

The mayor’s office was unable to provide details of when exactly the preliminary report would be released, but did provide a letter from Little to Local Government Minister Simon Watt last month, urging him to consider publishing interim reports from the Crown Review team as the process went ahead.

“Because the event is ongoing, I would encourage you to consider the merits of the Crown Review Team providing interim reporting rather than wait for the entire ToRs [Terms of Reference] to have been satisfied. Transparency with Wellingtonians and all New Zealanders is essential, so it would be my expectation that all reporting should be proactively released as appropriate,” Little wrote early last month.

Wellington Water and Minister for Local Government, Simon Watts, have been approached for comment.

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/2026/03/13/report-into-moa-point-wastewater-plant-failure-to-be-released-next-week/

Posted on

ACT voices strong objections to greyhound racing ban, won’t say if pulling support for legislation

Source: Radio New Zealand

123rf

ACT has voiced strong objections to the looming ban on greyhound racing, saying breeders, owners, and venues deserve compensation and more time.

But it has yet to decide whether it will completely pull its support for the legislation at its second reading. The bill – in the name of Racing Minister Winston Peters – passed its first reading in November with unanimous support.

The ACT party filed its dissenting view in a report published on Friday by a select committee considering the plan to shut down the sport by August.

In its contribution, ACT said it was “not convinced” the threshold had been met for banning a legal industry, saying such action should be a “last resort” only.

It said a longer transition should have been considered, noting that rehoming about 1600 greyhounds would take significant time and rushing the process would harm the owners, trainers and dogs.

ACT also called for “a clear compensation regime” for those who would lose their livelihoods and said the costs to rehome the greyhounds should be funded fully by the Crown.

Initially, the legislation said those costs would be met from the assets held by Greyhound Racing New Zealand, almost $16 million, with any amount left over given to other racing codes.

MPs at select committee agreed to change that so any leftover funds were returned to industry participants.

Speaking to RNZ, ACT MP Cameron Luxton said that was an improvement, but still not good enough.

He said thousands of “good hard-working salt-of-the-earth New Zealanders” were having their lawful livelihoods taken away from them through no fault of their own.

ACT MP Cameron Luxton. VNP / Phil Smith

Luxton said the government should “at the very least” set up a compensation scheme like the Labour-NZ First coalition did when it banned and confiscated some firearms.

“We’ve listened to a community that’s been misunderstood by Wellington. They’re getting a raw deal. Their property rights have been disregarded, and someone needs to stick up for them.”

Asked whether ACT would therefore vote against the bill at its second reading, Luxton said the caucus had yet to discuss that or whether it might invoke the coalition’s agree-to-disagree clause.

“It is a bit of a moot point when you consider that the bill’s got everyone in Parliament voting for it,” he said.

“I can’t give you a definite, but what I really want to do is make sure that the people who are being affected by this are heard… that they’re represented… and we work on a result that is fair to the people who are having their industry shut down and their community broken up.

The select committee – which also included representatives from National, Labour and the Greens – also agreed the legislation should be amended to allow TAB to keep taking bets on greyhound races outside New Zealand.

The rationale was that revenue could go towards the cost of winding down the industry, with a mandatory review to later consider whether that should continue.

Focus remains on ‘smooth and responsible’ transition -Peters

In a separate statement, Peters said everybody, including industry representatives, had had the opportunity to have their say through the select committee process.

He said the government remained focused on a “smooth and responsible transition” with planning to continue over the coming months, focused on ensuring fair outcomes for both people and animals.

Peters said the transition plan included wellbeing, mental health and re-training support for industry workers, as well as assistance from animal welfare organisations in rehoming the dogs.

A spokesperson for Peters said he had nothing to add on ACT’s minority position.

Peters announced the ban on greyhound racing in late 2024.

During his first reading speech last year, Peters told Parliament the industry had lost its social licence both at home and around the world.

“This decision was not taken lightly,” he said. “However, it was considered that the rates of dogs being seriously injured remained too high and the improvements made were not significant enough.”

Animal activists have long called for action after numerous reviews of the sport sounded alarm about animal welfare practices.

In 2021, former sports minister Grant Robertson put the industry “formally on notice” after a report found the industry had failed to adequately improve animal welfare systems.

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/2026/03/13/act-voices-strong-objections-to-greyhound-racing-ban-wont-say-if-pulling-support-for-legislation/

Posted on

Oranga Tamariki reports it is ‘off-track’ dealing with critical reports of concern

Source: Radio New Zealand

The report said ‘off-track’ against the target for handling the most urgent cases in time. RNZ

Oranga Tamariki reports it’s not meeting targets with critical and urgent reports of concern about children, and in fact, is a bit worse than before.

However, the Children’s Minister Karen Chhour has focused on other figures out Friday which she said shows the agency “showing strong progress against key targets”.

The minister highlighted – as did OT – that 97 percent of children were being visited by a social worker within a targeted time, caregivers were doing better, and there was a large drop in serious persistent offending.

This is from the latest report on performance against ministerial priorities for July to September last year.

But the report also said “OFF TRACK” in red capitals against the target for handling the most urgent cases in time, in its section on “ensuring the safety of children”.

The time taken has dropped to 10 percent below target, when it was nine percent below in the previous quarter.

This was due to it getting so many reports – almost 28,000 – and having too few social workers, OT said.

The target was to respond to 95 percent of critical cases within a day and very urgent reports of concern within two days.

It hit just 85 percent, down from 86 percent previously.

“Meeting report of concern timeframes has become more challenging due to the high volume of Reports of Concern and workforce pressures,” the report said.

These factors were very similar to last May; so too was the government’s response last May when it said that the figures as whole showed OT making progress.

The quarter’s 27,700 reports of concern almost matched the previous quarter but were 3000 above forecast.

The agency had pinned its hopes of hitting time targets on an upgrade of its obsolete tech system.

In Friday’s report it said the tech upgrade had improved social workers’ confidence and assessments. It added it had developed the first part of a strategic workforce tool to become more efficient.

The Independent Children’s Monitor last month said children were no safer than when Malachi Subecz was murdered, stating, “there continues to be a high proportion of reports of concern from professionals that do not result in further action by Oranga Tamariki and where tamariki and rangatahi are not seen.”

On Friday Chhour said young people were turning their lives around and being kept safer.

“We’ve recruited twice the number of social workers compared to the number of social workers who left Oranga Tamariki in the last financial year. We’ve also invested in greater professional supports and training.

“This is not mission accomplished, I also acknowledge there is still room for improvement,” she said in a statement.

Other reports released under the OIA show the agency has struggled for years to recruit and properly train staff in its youth justice residences.

Another target Chhour noted was a 14 percent reduction in children in state care residences being harmed.

Harm in state care as a whole in its various forms was down eight percent. In family placements it was at its lowest level in seven years, but jumped 23 percent in the category known as return/remain home placements when children return to the care of their parent.

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/2026/03/13/oranga-tamariki-reports-it-is-off-track-dealing-with-critical-reports-of-concern/

Posted on

Police appealing for information after Napier assault

Source: Radio New Zealand

A white ute that was nearby when the assault took place. Police are wanting to speak with the owner of the vehicle. Police/Supplied

Police are looking for a man, described to be in his late-40’s after an assault in Meeanee, Napier last week.

The assault happened on the Limestone Track, between Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road. Police got the call on Friday March 6 just before 7.30am.

Acting Detective Sergeant Emma Wiltshire said the victim was able to get to safety with no injuries, but they are very shaken by the incident.

The offender has so far not been found and police are now asking the public for any information.

Wiltshire said the man has been described as Caucasian with bright blue eyes in his late 40s.

“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.”

Police are asking anyone who has seen this man or witnessed the incident to contact police.

Anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage of the Ulyatt Road and Riverbend Road areas between 7am and 8am on the day of the assault is also encouraged to get in touch.

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

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/2026/03/13/police-appealing-for-information-after-napier-assault/

Posted on

Serious crash: Titi Road, Mauku

Source: New Zealand Police

Emergency services are in attendance at a serious crash in Mauku, west of Pukekohe.

The crash, reported at 3.22pm, occurred on Titi Road and involves a pedestrian and truck.

Initial information is that the pedestrian has been critically injured. 

Titi Road is currently closed while emergency services attend the scene.

Both the Serious Crash Unit and Commercial Vehicle Safety Team have been advised, and will attend the incident.

A further update will be provided when available.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/13/serious-crash-titi-road-mauku/

Posted on

US national allegedly flew into NZ to carry out murder before flying back home

Source: Radio New Zealand

Auckland courier driverTuipulotu Vi was shot and killed in 2024. Facebook / supplied

A US national is accused of flying into New Zealand to carry out a murder at the request of an organised criminal group before flying back home, RNZ can reveal.

The man is charged with killing Auckland courier driver Tuipulotu Vi in August 2024.

Police believe he then flew back to the USA where he attempted to murder someone else. He’s been charged there and if convicted, is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison with the possibility of parole.

The man’s link to the killing in New Zealand has been shrouded in secrecy due to extensive suppression orders obtained by police that prevented publishing the circumstances of the alleged offending.

On Friday, Judge Yelena Yelavich lifted those orders following opposition from RNZ and police not seeking to continue them.

RNZ can now report that Tanginoa Pahulu Tangi is believed to have been sent to New Zealand by an organised criminal group based in the US to carry out a killing.

It’s understood 59-year-old Vi was not the intended target.

  • Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

Court documents seen by RNZ allege the 26-year-old jointly offended with persons unknown and murdered Vi.

Police earlier said Vi was found inside a vehicle with gunshot wounds, and was pronounced dead at the scene.

After the killing, Tangi flew back to the USA.

Then, in August last year he allegedly attempted to murder a man in a shooting in Oakley, California.

A press release at the time from the Oakley Police Department said police were called to reports of a shooting about 3am on 27 August. Residents in the area heard the shooting and said they saw the suspected shooter flee in a dark coloured Ford F150.

While attending to the victim, police saw a vehicle matching the description of the suspected shooter.

The vehicle initially pulled over, but then sped off and police began a pursuit. They later spiked the vehicle and arrested Tangi.

“We are able to determine this was a targeted attack and there are no other known suspects,” police said.

“An incredible amount of teamwork, by community members and law-enforcement officers alike, went into the successful apprehension of the suspect in this case. I am identifying the suspect in this case as Tanginoa Tangi, a 25-year-old male resident of Hayward. The victim in this case had just returned home and he was getting out of his vehicle when Tangi shot him several times.”

RNZ has obtained court documents in relation to the charges Tangi faces in the USA.

He’s accused of attempted murder, shooting at an occupied motor vehicle, fleeing a pursuing police officer’s vehicle while driving recklessly, and possession of a firearm.

He has pleaded not guilty and is set to go on trial next month.

A spokesperson for the local District Attorney’s office told RNZ the office was “generally aware” that Tangi had another pending matter in New Zealand and that they were aware an extradition warrant existed.

Tangi was facing a possible life sentence with the possibility of parole, the spokesperson confirmed.

Tangi had been notified orally of the extradition warrant.

“Regarding the New Zealand matter, the DA’s office does not litigate extradition proceedings. However, we expect that once Mr Tangi’s case here in California concludes, the extradition process to New Zealand would move forward at that time.”

RNZ sent several questions to Tangi’s lawyer, who declined to comment.

“We cannot comment at this time and do not foresee being able to offer anything in the near future.”

Two other people have been charged with murdering Vi and are before the courts.

‘Investigation ongoing’

In a statement to RNZ on Friday afternoon, police confirmed a third person “has been charged with murder as part of an ongoing homicide investigation, following the death of a courier driver in Pakuranga Heights in 2024”.

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

A murder charge has now been filed against a 26-year-old man.

“The man is currently in custody in the United States for offences committed in that country and is now subject to an extradition process,” Counties Manukau CIB detective inspector Shaun Vickers said.

“We are working with the relevant authorities in relation to this.

“This is the third person charged over to Mr Vi’s death and our investigation remains ongoing.”

As the matter is before the courts, police are limited in providing further information, Vickers said.

RNZ has approached several government agencies as well as the FBI and Interpol in relation to the case.

A Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson earlier said they were unable to assist with RNZ’s query.

A spokesperson for Foreign Affairs minister Winston Peters earlier confirmed he had not been briefed on the matter.

A spokesperson at the FBI’s National Press Office said the agency had no comment.

A US Embassy Wellington spokesperson said as a matter of “long-standing policy”, the embassy did not comment on ongoing criminal investigations or matters before the court.

“Speaking generally, I can say that the US Embassy and US law enforcement authorities routinely assist our New Zealand counterparts as and when appropriate.”

A Customs spokesperson said they were unable to disclose personal information on individuals.

“Customs carries out risk assessment for all passengers arriving to New Zealand using several tools and systems. This includes the assessment of information included on their New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

“Should agencies have concerns regarding individual passengers, they can be referred to Immigration New Zealand for verification of their entitlement to enter New Zealand.”

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/2026/03/13/us-national-allegedly-flew-into-nz-to-carry-out-murder-before-flying-back-home/

Posted on

Operation Block: Murder charge laid in ongoing homicide investigation

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now confirm a third person has been charged with murder as part of an ongoing homicide investigation, following the death of a courier driver in Pakuranga Heights in 2024.

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 a murder charged has been filed against a 26-year-old man.

“The man is currently in custody in the United States for offences committed in that country and is now subject to an extradition process.

“We are working with the relevant authorities  in relation to this.

“This is the third person charged over to Mr Vi’s death and our investigation remains ongoing.”

As the matter is before the Court, Police are limited in providing further information.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/13/operation-block-murder-charge-laid-in-ongoing-homicide-investigation/

Posted on

Interislander staffer sent overseas to collect crucial parts for Kaiārahi ferry

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Madleine CarrWhite, Massey University Journalism Student

The Kaiārahi ferry. Interislander

An Interislander staff member has gone overseas to collect crucial components to fix the stricken ferry Kaiārahi.

KiwiRail spokesperson Taru Sawhney said the action was taken to ensure the part and a spare got here as quickly as possible.

They will arrive on Friday afternoon, and there will be sea trials over the weekend.

The Kaiārahi has been out of service since Tuesday night because of a technical fault.

An Interislander spokesperson said operating with one vessel was challenging, particularly during a busy period, but the company has managed it before.

During this time, Interislander was prioritising urgent freight that could not travel across the Cook Strait any other way.

Sawhney said around 1300 private vehicles were affected by the Kaiārahi outage and those customers were being offered a full refund.

A small number of people have taken up an offer by Interislander to move private vehicle bookings to a later date with a 50 percent discount off the advertised price.

KiwiRail expects to have the Kaiārahi sailing by next week.

Meanwhile, Thursday afternoon sailings on the Connemara ferry owned by Bluebridge were also cancelled, but resumed in the early hours of Friday.

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/2026/03/13/interislander-staffer-sent-overseas-to-collect-crucial-parts-for-kaiarahi-ferry/

Posted on

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/