Category: KB

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Winston Peters meets Cook Island PM ‘informally’, but no deal on key issues

Source: Radio New Zealand

Cook Islands PM Mark Brown and New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters held an informal discussion at Peters’ private residence in Auckland on Friday, 20 March 2026  Supplied / Minister of Foreign Affairs

Winston Peters has met “informally” with Cook Islands Prime Minister Mark Brown at Peters’ home in Auckland.

Four days ago, Peters’ office said they had no plans to meet Brown while he was in New Zealand.

In a joint statement, they said they discussed “fundamental challenges facing the New Zealand-Cook Islands relationship over the past 18 months” though there appeared to be no resolutions.

“Political dialogue between the two countries will continue in the coming weeks in order to determine whether these challenges can be resolved in the present circumstances,” it stated.

“In the meantime, the Governments of the Cook Islands and New Zealand will not be providing further comment.”

Christopher Luxon said on Thursday that he would not meet with Brown in any capacity, preferring to keep it between officials.

“I’m confident we’ll get to a good place in the end, we’ve made some good progress recently, but I’m going to let our officials handle that progress,” he said.

Addressing a room of dignitaries on Wednesday, Brown said his country was “growing in influence” globally on its “voyage of statehood”.

“Our desire to pursue our own policies and interests have been reflected in our growing participation on the international stage,” Brown told a room of dignitaries.

“There are times when we must pause and consider whether the conventions and evolved understanding between our freely associated states remain aligned … we find ourselves in such a moment.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/winston-peters-meets-cook-island-pm-informally-but-no-deal-on-key-issues/

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Venue access: how we manage our bookable community spaces

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council’s Director of Community Rachel Kelleher responds to concerns about the council’s approach to venue hire of our community meeting halls and shared spaces.

It is with huge gratitude that I acknowledge the messages of support our staff and the council has received over the past few days, regarding our response to the awful disruption of a family-friendly Pride event at Te Atatū Peninsula Library last weekend.

It has been uplifting to see the voices of leaders throughout New Zealand also extend their support to our brave staff and affected communities, along with the widespread public condemnation of this harmful activity.

We are also grateful for police support, to ensure that all remaining Pride events at our venues continue to be uplifting occasions to celebrate Auckland’s rainbow communities.

We are actively monitoring any health, safety or security risks at future events.

Venue hire

We have been asked questions about the use of our community venues and whether the council should apply tighter restrictions on bookings – particularly from groups like Destiny Church with strong views that not everyone shares.  

So, I’d like to take this opportunity to talk about how Auckland Council provides access to our collection of more than 100 bookable community venues across the region on the principle that they are available for anyone to hire. We are obliged to ensure everyone throughout Auckland has fair and equal access to connect and enjoy using these spaces.

This doesn’t mean that we endorse the content of an event, or the views of participants, but rather that we must manage our venues in a neutral and non-discriminatory manner.

It is not always easy to maintain that careful balance between providing a public service (venues for hire) and expressing our council values, including ensuring our people feel supported on our position on diversity and inclusion.

This sometimes leads to tension, and pressure to do more in support of one community or group, over another.

When differences arise between the views of the various groups using our community venues, and there is potential for conflict or any risk to public safety, we work closely with the police and security experts to determine if activities should go ahead.

An example of this occurred in 2023, when the council terminated venue bookings at the Mount Eden War Memorial Hall in response to safety concerns from two groups with strong opposing views planning to gather on the same night.

Consistent with our obligations as a public authority, we will continue to operate our venues on the principle that they are available to all Aucklanders, but will not hesitate to address or terminate bookings if terms are breached or safety compromised.

With respect to the events at the events at the at Te Atatū Peninsula Library last Saturday, council is supporting the police with their investigations and has not ruled out taking further action against those individuals involved.  

Venue hire requirements:

  • All venue hire bookings agree to comply with council’s venue hire terms and conditions. These set out the circumstances in which the council may terminate a booking and include situations where the event might breach the law or the conditions themselves or where the management or control of the event is deficient.

  • It is always the responsibility of venue hire users to ensure their events are managed safely, and to meet the terms and conditions of our venue hire policy.

  • Where we have concerns that an event may raise health and safety or security concerns we work with the organisers and relevant agencies to ensure that these concerns are addressed ahead of the event. 

  • Our community venues are operated on the principle they are available for anyone to hire. If a booking is accepted, it doesn’t mean that we endorse the content of the event, but rather that we are obliged to manage our venues in a non-discriminatory manner.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/venue-access-how-we-manage-our-bookable-community-spaces-2/

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Appeal for information on fight at Common Room bar in Hastings

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Heath Jones, Hastings Criminal Investigation Branch

Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone else affected by a group of people fighting at a local Hastings pub, to come forward.

The fight occurred between 1.30 and 2am on Sunday 8 March.

Police received reports of a brawl involving men and women inside the Common Room bar which is located at 227 Heretaunga Street East, Hastings. 

Several people were injured, some seriously, with one requiring hospital treatment.

Police are disappointed at the aggressive and careless behaviour on display at the Common Room that night and will be holding any offenders to account.

We are asking the public for information to help identify the offenders and anyone else who was there at the time who may have suffered injuries or witnessed the fight.

If you were there, or you know someone affected please call 105 or make a report online by clicking ‘Make a report’ referencing the file number 260308/6292.

Police are looking to identify the male in the images attached. In two photos he is seen wearing a fawn ‘Gucci’ baseball cap with a white shirt.

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

We encourage anyone who witnesses illegal activity and violent behaviour to call Police immediately on 111.

END

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/appeal-for-information-on-fight-at-common-room-bar-in-hastings/

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Moa Point report reveals air bubble may have caused massive failure

Source: Radio New Zealand

The catastrophic failure of the Moa Point wastewater treatment plant may have been caused by air trapped in the pipes, a report has revealed.

The Wellington plant failed last month, flooding the facility and sending millions of litres of raw sewage into the sea each day.

Wellington City Council on Friday released the first report into the ongoing saga.

Wellington Water commissioned the engineering report on 5 February – the day after the failure – to understand how the plant could be operated during the recovery.

Experts from Stantec used software to develop a hydraulic model of the plant, and replicated the likely flow of water running through the plant when it failed.

While the report was not commissioned to identify the cause, it revealed valuable information, Wellington Mayor Andrew Little’s office said.

Wellington Mayor Andrew Little said the report was just one piece of the puzzle. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“The report found that air can become trapped in the wastewater bypass pipeline, particularly when there is a high flow of wastewater passing through the plant.

“It is possible that trapped air could disrupt the flow of wastewater, pushing it backwards and flooding the plant.”

There was a “significant risk” of the air being trapped in the system, causing a “choke point” the report said.

And if it did happen, it would be “a likely cause of the flooding”.

The bypass system allows screened wastewater to bypass further treatment – like disinfection – and be discharged out to sea when the plant is at maximum capacity.

The experts suggested Wellington Water install additional air release equipment at specific locations in the system.

Wellington Water chief operating officer Charles Baker speaking to media following the release of the report. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“This is expected to provide some improvement to the issues identified until the design of a new bypass pipeline alignment and connection can be developed and implemented.”

The report was just one piece of the puzzle, Little said.

“There are other areas of interest that require a more detailed investigation, and Wellington Water has commissioned an external specialist to conduct a wider investigation into these other factors.

“It’s natural to want a quick answer, but it’s important that we take the time to uncover all the facts and not draw conclusions too early.

“Wellingtonians deserve assurance that our recovery addresses the root cause and any related factors, so we can be confident we’re preventing this from happening again.”

The Wellington plant failed last month, flooding the facility and sending millions of litres of raw sewage into the sea each day. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Air pocket ‘burping’ seen since

The report revealed that Veolia, the plant operator, told Wellington Water at a meeting this week that crews had observed the burping of air pockets during the storm on 3 March when there was a high level of water running through the system.

“The operator … observed burping of large air pockets and large splashes from the outlet chamber during the initial pumping sequences,” it said.

That showed the air release capacity of a vent pipe downstream had been exceeded at times, the report said.

More risks identified

The experts identified other potential risks at the plant and made a number of technical recommendations.

“Wellington Water should address the potential risk of a blockage or debris in the outfall section of the pipe and implement monitoring of operating pressures in the ocean outfall (during the recovery phase at a minimum).”

The company should also review the condition of existing air and isolation valves, and replace them if necessary, the report said.

CCTV from the pipeline showed the polyurethane liner had eroded and cement mortar had potentially degraded in some sections, it said.

“This has occurred due to high velocity super-critical (shallow and fast) flow impacting on the liner.

“This flow regime presents risks to the long-term durability of the effluent pipeline liner and structural steel which warrants additional review and investigation.”

An independent Crown review into the failure is also underway, and its final report is expected in August.

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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/2026/03/20/moa-point-report-reveals-air-bubble-may-have-caused-massive-failure/

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Empty pumps at two North Island truck stops concern rural transporter

Source: Radio New Zealand

Danniverke Carriers owner Nigel Castles expects further price rises for fuel are inevitable. 123rf

A rural transport company carting stock to the meat works couldn’t get the fuel it needed at two North Island commercial truck stops.

Pumps ran dry in Wairoa and Eltham on Thursday when the Stephenson Transport truck and trailer units from Central Hawke’s Bay were on a freezing works run.

Owner Bruce Stephenson said it’s a situation he’s never faced during his seven decades in the business.

“We had stock trucks on the road obviously all over the place. We couldn’t get fuel in Wairoa and we couldn’t get fuel in Eltham,” he said.

“They were loaded with stock heading to the works, so we had to stretch things out a bit – it gets a bit tricky when you’re doing that sort of thing.”

He fielded phone calls from his concerned drivers wondering what to do next.

“I’m talking about truck stops where we fuel up and where we get our contract prices from. That’s where access is relatively easy for a big truck and trailers with crates on.”

“So we had to go to service stations and find one we could get under the canopy of.”

Danniverke Carriers owner Nigel Castles is also coping with the swiftly evolving situation.

His company also carts stock around the country and he’s concerned about the massive spike in prices.

And his family-owned business can’t absorb the soaring fuel prices alone.

He’s reluctantly passing these increases on to farmers and estimates his fuel bill is up 20 percent from the start of the year.

The company filled its tanks last week, and he hopes the next delivery will arrive in a week.

With no signs of tensions easing in the Middle East, he expects further price rises for fuel are inevitable.

“The next lot of fuel supply is actually going to go up again,” he said.

“Definitely out on farm there’s a lot of worry, and as transporters we certainly don’t want to come to a grinding halt either.”

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/2026/03/20/empty-pumps-at-two-north-island-truck-stops-concern-rural-transporter/

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SIM Global Education Highlights Integrated Undergraduate Experience, Combining Academic Learning and Career Preparation

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2026 – Undergraduate education today extends beyond academic instruction, with institutions increasingly emphasising the development of practical skills, career readiness and personal growth. At SIM Global Education (SIM GE), the undergraduate experience is structured to combine academic learning with career preparation and student engagement, reflecting the evolving expectations of higher education.

Through partnerships with universities in the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia, SIM GE provides access to internationally recognised degree programmes delivered in Singapore. Students are supported by a learning environment that integrates classroom instruction with opportunities for applied learning and professional development.

A Structured Undergraduate Experience
A typical weekday at SIM GE reflects a balance between academic commitments and broader developmental activities.

Mornings are generally dedicated to lecture preparation and collaborative study, with students making use of campus facilities designed for both individual and group learning. Formal classes, including lectures, seminars and case discussions, typically take place later in the morning. These sessions often incorporate group-based assignments and presentations, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts.

Midday periods frequently involve informal collaboration, with students using shared spaces to coordinate group work and prepare for assessments. This collaborative approach reinforces teamwork and communication skills, which are essential in professional environments.

Afternoons may include academic support activities, such as consultations and workshops offered through the Student Learning Centre. These resources are designed to strengthen competencies in areas including academic writing, research methodologies and presentation skills.

Career development forms an integral component of the undergraduate experience. SIM GE provides access to career advisory services, networking opportunities and industry engagement initiatives, allowing students to gain insights into employer expectations and explore potential career pathways prior to graduation.

Beyond academic and career-focused activities, students are encouraged to participate in co-curricular engagements. With a wide range of student clubs, interest groups and volunteering initiatives available, these activities provide opportunities to develop leadership, interpersonal skills and cross-cultural understanding within a diverse student community.

Evenings are often dedicated to independent study, assignment completion and preparation for upcoming classes, reflecting the balance between structured learning and self-directed development.

Supporting Holistic Student Development
The undergraduate experience at SIM GE is designed to support both academic progression and personal development. Through a combination of structured coursework, academic support services, career preparation and student-led activities, learners are able to build a broad set of competencies relevant to both further education and employment.

This integrated approach enables students to develop practical skills, expand professional networks and gain exposure to diverse perspectives, contributing to a more comprehensive preparation for the demands of the global workforce.

References:
1. Devanshi Soni student story –
https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/education/news/from-new-delhi-to-singapore-how-sim-global-education-shaped-devanshi-sonis-global-journey/articleshow/122850280.cms

2. SIM GE Student Ambassador Yong Kunyada story –
https://regional.simge.edu.sg/philippines/en/scholar-student-ambassador-yong-shares-her-experiences-of-learning-and-thriving-in-sim/

3. SIM Student Learning Centre – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/learning-support

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/sim-global-education-highlights-integrated-undergraduate-experience-combining-academic-learning-and-career-preparation/

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SEEK’s AI Lead Speaks at Global Talent Summit: How responsible AI is helping connect candidates and hirers with trust in an increasingly noisy hiring market

Source: Media Outreach

Jobsdb by SEEK hosts “The Hong Kong HR Awards 2025/26” celebrating industry excellence

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2026 – Mr Grant Wright, Group Executive, Artificial Intelligence at SEEK, the parent company of Jobsdb, spoke at the “Global Talent Summit Week – Hong Kong’s International Talent Forum” on 18 March 2026, organised by the Labour and Welfare Bureau and Hong Kong Talent Engage. At the panel titled “Thriving in a dynamic talent landscape – Sustaining skills and fostering resilience”, Mr Wright addressed the challenge of increasing noise in the recruitment market and outlined how SEEK is leveraging its responsible AI framework and automated verification tools to help employers identify authentic talent signals.

Mr Grant Wright, Group Executive, Artificial Intelligence at SEEK, the parent company of Jobsdb, spoke at the “Global Talent Summit Week – Hong Kong’s International Talent Forum” on 18 March 2026

Building trust with Responsible AI and verification

At the forum, Mr Wright described the current global talent landscape as increasingly noisy with the rise of AI agents and the use of large language models in the recruitment process making it harder to assess candidates fit and motivation without the right tools.

“In a world where AI allows every candidate to put their best foot forward, traditional signals like the CV and cover letter tell us less than they used to,” said Mr Wright. “Simply applying for a role is no longer necessarily a signal of motivation or suitability. In this noisier AI environment, marketplaces play a critical role to connect interested and high-fit candidates and hirers faster, and to add more trust to the process.

SEEK established a dedicated Responsible AI team in 2017 to address fairness and bias in AI-driven matching. Mr Wright outlined the company’s core principles for ensuring technology empowers rather than excludes.

“AI makes predictions, which means by definition it can be wrong. We must consider the impact of those predictions on individuals,” Mr Wright added.

“Humans can be biased in recruitment, and we need to recognise that exists in the system and in the data we train on. Our responsible AI team and processes aim to ensure AI improves outcomes for everyone and creates opportunity.”

SEEK has invested in AI to improve customer experiences for over a decade, building one of Asia Pacific’s most established AI teams. Beyond making job hunting and hiring simpler, SEEK is focused on using AI to add trust and efficiency into our marketplace. This proprietary technology powers every stage of the hiring process:

  • Enhanced targeting for high-fit candidates: SEEK identifies which candidates are a high fit for a role. This allows us to predict a candidate’s likelihood of being shortlisted for any given job ad. High-fit candidates are three times more likely to be shortlisted.
  • Enhanced Efficiency and Search Experience: Features like AI-assisted ad writing help employers create compelling job descriptions, while AI-powered analytics provide real-time insights to optimise ad performance. At the same time, candidates can use natural, everyday language to describe what they’re looking for, and personalised search models match them to the most relevant roles.
  • Responsible AI and Trust: SEEK’s dedicated Responsible AI framework focuses on fairness, transparency and bias mitigation in AI‑driven matching. To combat market friction and build confidence, SEEK has also introduced automated verified credentials, reducing verification times from days to seconds, increasing hirer trust in the integrity of matches and helping candidates stand out.
  • Voice AI Refence Checks: SEEK also leverages natural language AI to transform the reference checking experience. SEEK’s voice AI assistant allows referees to complete checks through natural conversation with SEEK’s Voice AI service. This cuts completion time for hirers in half, from 24 to 12 minutes, while capturing more data than traditional reference checking methods.

When asked about his vision for Hong Kong’s workforce over the next five years, Mr Wright highlighted that while Hong Kong has always been exceptional at attracting talent, the automation of entry-level tasks could pose a risk to traditional learning curves.

“I would like to see Hong Kong focus on the development problem for the future workforce,” said Mr Wright. “If you take away entry-level jobs, you remove the safe space for newcomers to ‘fail fast’ and learn how an organisation works. That would be a real challenge, and I hope to see Hong Kong find a solution to bridge this gap for the betterment of organisations and future talent.”

Celebrating excellence in HR

The dialogue on the future of work continued later that day as Jobsdb celebrated industry excellence at ‘The Hong Kong HR Awards 2025/26’. With the theme ‘Empowering Talent and Technology Towards Tomorrow’, the awards recognised 70 companies, for their excellence in talent acquisition and management strategies. The ceremony was attended by approximately 450 guests, witnessing the industry’s achievements in integrating technology with talent development.

Mr Bill Lee, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Jobsdb by SEEK, stated, “Now in its fifth year, The Hong Kong HR Awards are once again dedicated to celebrating the exceptional organisations and visionary individuals who are reshaping the future of people strategy in Hong Kong. This year’s winners demonstrate how forward‑thinking employers are transforming talent attraction, development and engagement through the smart use of data and technology. We are also proud to introduce the inaugural SEEK APAC Employer of the Year Award, recognising excellence across our Asia markets plus Chinese Mainland and reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a hub for talent in Asia Pacific. At Jobsdb, we are committed to providing the tools and insights to help the local workforce navigate this transformation and unlock new possibilities for growth.”

For the full list of winners and more details, please visit:
https://hk.employer.seek.com/page/the-hong-kong-hr-awards-2025-26-winners

Hashtag: #Jobsdb #AI #SEEK

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/seeks-ai-lead-speaks-at-global-talent-summit-how-responsible-ai-is-helping-connect-candidates-and-hirers-with-trust-in-an-increasingly-noisy-hiring-market/

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Dan Hooker’s bare-knuckle backyard fights to be monitored by Christchurch police

Source: Radio New Zealand

The gloves are coming off for the next instalment of Dan Hooker’s “1 Minute Scraps”. youtube

Police are monitoring a bare-knuckle fighting event in Christchurch organised by MMA professional fighter Dan Hooker.

The seventh-ranked UFC lightweight contender announced another “1 Minute Scraps” event on social media recently, telling hopefuls the event “is gonna scrap the gloves, we’re going bare-knuckle”.

A $50,000 prize was on offer for the winner with each combatant getting $1000 and $5000 available for each knockout.

Hooker told The Rock FM‘s Morning Rumble he had chosen the city for Sunday’s event because “I believe Christchurch has the craziest people”.

“We had thousands of people try to enter this. This excites me as a fighter,” he said.

The seventh-ranked UFC lightweight contender announced another “1 Minute Scraps” event on social media recently. STEVEN MARKHAM

Backyard-style fights have previously attracted backlash from some people involved in combat sports with the Boxing Coaches Association labelling it “straight-out thuggery“.

Following the criticism, Hooker told online combat sport programme the Ariel Helwani Show that, “there’s a few lefties having a sulk”.

“Since when did putting gloves on in the backyard and having a punch up become illegal?” Since when is that a crime?” he said.

Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells said police were aware of the event.

“We have spoken with the organisers of the event, who have been cooperative, and confirmed they are running a lawful event which they have done previously,” he said.

“Police monitored previous events run by these organisers and had no issues. However, we will continue to monitor such events, and anyone found to be participating in unlawful or antisocial behaviour should expect to be held to account for their actions.

“If anyone witnesses any concerning or antisocial behaviour is urged to call 111 in an emergency, or 105 to report non-urgent information.”

Hooker had promised to run more events in the future and said his plans for the next one “gets even more wild”.

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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/2026/03/20/dan-hookers-bare-knuckle-backyard-fights-to-be-monitored-by-christchurch-police/

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‘I go into a Zen space, my body takes over’ – circus star’s rare balancing act

Source: Radio New Zealand

In his La Ronde performance, Adam Malone’s burlesque-inspired feats include a “chaotic” hoop act in which he manipulates fast-spinning blunt objects with his hands.

Less stressful, he says, is pulling off his take on the traditional but rare ‘Washington Trapeze’, which involves balancing on his head.

“I go into a bit of a Zen space, and I balance, and my body kind of takes over for me,” Malone tells RNZ’s Nine to Noon.

Adam Malone is also a renowned hula-hoop artist.

Benji Hardwick

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/20/i-go-into-a-zen-space-my-body-takes-over-circus-stars-rare-balancing-act/

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One dead, one seriously injured after crash on SH2 in Gisborne District

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Robin Martin

One person has died following a crash on State Highway 2/Matawai Road, Waipaoa, in the Gisborne region on Friday morning.

Police were notified of the two-vehicle crash near McMillan Road just before 7am.

One person was found dead at the scene.

Another person received serious injuries and was taken to hospital by ambulance.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conduct a scene examination.

Police had warned earlier there would be extensive delays for motorists.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are continuing.

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/2026/03/20/one-dead-one-seriously-injured-after-crash-on-sh2-in-gisborne-district/

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Man found dead at Hastings construction site

Source: Radio New Zealand

A scene guard would remain in place while investigators probed the scene, police said. RNZ / REECE BAKER

Police enquiries are underway after a man was found dead at a construction in Hastings earlier this week.

Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Karli Whiu said police were called to the site at 7pm on Thursday 18 March.

“The man was not an employee at the site and his death is currently being treated as unexplained,” Whiu said.

A scene guard would remain in place while investigators probed the scene.

“Work is under way to formally identify the man and at this stage we are unable to provide any further details regarding his identity,” Whiu said.

Police were asking anyone with relevant information to reach out using the 105 and quote file number 260319/6453.

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

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/2026/03/20/man-found-dead-at-hastings-construction-site/

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Auckland’s digital library – a story of growth, access, and community

Source: Auckland Council

Across Tāmaki Makaurau reading has quietly transformed. You can see it on the morning train where someone is listening to an audiobook, in a café where a student scrolls through an e magazine, at home where a parent downloads a picture book for bedtime, and during a late-night shift where someone finally gets a moment to read on their phone. The library is not only a place you visit – it’s something you carry with you.

The rise of e content has reshaped how Aucklanders connect with stories, learning, and information. As the collection continues to grow – over 800k items across three different platforms – there really is something for everyone and it’s free for all Aucklanders.

What makes this shift so powerful is how naturally it fits into the rhythm of modern life. People read when and where they can, and the digital library grows in response. As Aucklanders borrow more, the collection expands, creating a cycle of use and growth that reflects the habits of a busy, diverse city.

“We’re a city of readers and of extraordinary diversity,” says Deputy Mayor of Auckland, Desley Simpson.

“People of all ages, backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities are embracing new ways to learn, explore, and connect. E content lets Aucklanders access stories and knowledge wherever they are, in the languages and formats that work for them. I think that’s just fantastic.

“Every digital checkout represents someone discovering a story, gaining knowledge, or finding joy. It shows who we are – a curious, multilingual, and connected city – and it’s something we should all be proud of,” says Deputy Mayor Simpson.

Digital borrowing has surged over the past five years, with strong, steady growth and record breaking use. Today, more than a third of all library loans in Auckland are digital – a higher share than in many comparable regions. Auckland now sits among the world’s major digital lending library systems with more than six million digital checkouts last year alone. On a global scale, we sit at number 11 for e-lending which puts us together with a small group of the very largest big city and regional library systems in the world – think Los Angeles, New York and Toronto!

In the past year alone, Aucklanders borrowed material in 36 different languages and children’s reading has climbed sharply – with a significant increase in digital checkouts over the past two years. Readers come from every Local Board area and represent at least 25 ethnic communities. The digital library has become a mirror of Auckland’s diversity, offering stories and information that speak to many cultures, ages, and experiences.

E content also removes barriers that physical libraries can’t always overcome. It supports people with vision impairments through screen reader compatibility, helps dyslexic readers with specialised fonts, and offers multilingual families access to books in their home languages. It serves roster workers who read at various hours, commuters who squeeze in a chapter on the go, and residents who live far from a physical outlet.

This shift has strengthened equity of access across the region. Aucklanders who might once have struggled to reach a library can now participate fully in reading and learning. The digital collection has become a vital part of service delivery, extending the reach of the library without the need for new buildings or physical infrastructure.
Ultimately, the rise of e content is a story about Auckland – one of the most diverse cities in the world and one whose people read widely and in many languages. Together we’re shaping a future where the library in Auckland is always open and always accessible.

Aucklanders can download the app here: https://www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/en/books-movies-audio/ecollections/ebooks.html
And/or sign up for a membership if you don’t already belong to the library: https://www.aucklandlibraries.govt.nz/en/join-the-library.html

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/aucklands-digital-library-a-story-of-growth-access-and-community/

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Is antibacterial soap any better at killing germs?

Source: Radio New Zealand

If you’ve ever dealt with a sick household, the appeal of hand soap to kill germs is understandable and there are plenty of “antibacterial” and “antiseptic” products promising to do that.

Hand washing is one of the most important ways to prevent the transmission of pathogens between people, says Professor Paul Griffin, an infectious diseases physician and clinical microbiologist from Brisbane/Meanjin.

“Anyone who’s worked in health care, child care or had young kids knows how quickly germs spread amongst the household and in those environments,” he says.

Professor Paul Griffin says it is less about the product you use and more about the correct hand washing technique.

Supplied/ABC

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/20/is-antibacterial-soap-any-better-at-killing-germs/

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Advice from the world’s happiest country, as NZ misses top 10

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finland has once again been named the happiest country in the world, a title it has now held a record nine times.

New Zealand often ranks in the top 10, but it has just dipped outside to 11th in the most recent World Happiness Report. It’s the third year in a row New Zealand has ranked outside the top 10.

It’s mostly Nordic countries ahead of New Zealand, but Israel is in 8th. Our friends across the ditch, Australia, were ranked 15th.

New Zealand has ranked 11th in the World Happiness Report.

123rf.com

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/20/advice-from-the-worlds-happiest-country-as-nz-misses-top-10/

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New features coming to Govt.nz App

Source: New Zealand Government

Significant new features will soon roll out on the Govt.nz app, Digitising Government and Public Service Minister Judith Collins says.

“The Govt.nz App will provide New Zealanders with easy access to government digital services such as communications and proof of digital identity,” Ms Collins says.

“By the end of this month, users will be able to see their digital wallet in the app. This will allow people to store and present accredited digital credentials issued by government or the private sector.

“At the same time, the Government Credential Issuance Platform will go live, allowing all government agencies to issue digital credentials directly into the wallet. This all-of-government solution will reduce duplication and ensure better value for money.

“Hospitality New Zealand is working with the Department of Internal Affairs to be the first accredited digital credential available in the wallet, pending changes to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act.

“This digital credential could be used by customers to present their Kiwi Access Card on their phone at a bar or event entrance, so staff can confirm age eligibility quickly and securely without handling a physical card.

“By July 2026, secure messaging will also be available in the app, allowing New Zealanders to receive communications directly from government agencies on things like vehicle registration reminders or travel advisories.

“These new features will give New Zealanders more choice in how they access government services through an app that is robust, secure, and widely usable.

“Use of the Govt.nz app will be entirely voluntary, and existing channels will remain available.” 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/20/new-features-coming-to-govt-nz-app/

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Police making enquiries into unexplained death in Hastings

Source: New Zealand Police

To be attributed to Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Karli Whiu:

Police are making enquiries after a man was located deceased at a construction site on Omahu Road in Hastings earlier this week.

Officers were called to the site at 7pm on Thursday 18 March. 

The man was not an employee at the site and his death is currently being treated as unexplained.

A scene guard remains in place at the site while a scene examination is completed.

Work is under way to formally identify the man and at this stage we are unable to provide any further details regarding his identity.

If anyone has information which they believe may be relevant to our enquiries, please contact Police via 105 and quote file number 260319/6453.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/police-making-enquiries-into-unexplained-death-in-hastings/

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US Coast Guard sails into Wellington harbour

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Madleine CarrWhite, Massey Journalism Student

The USGC Polar Star has operated in Antarctica for the past 55 days. RNZ/Mark Papalii

A United States Coast Guard icebreaker has sailed into Wellington harbour after working with New Zealand in Antarctica.

The USGC Polar Star, celebrating its 50th year of service, has operated in Antarctica for the past 55 days resupplying New Zealand’s Scott Base, among other duties.

Two New Zealand sailors joined the American crew to participate in this year’s Polar Star’s deployment, Operation Deep Freeze.

Polar Star cuts channels through thick ice, creating access for ships to reach Antarctic research stations and bases.

David Gehrenbeck, the US Charge d’Affaires, said the arrival of the ship highlights the relationship between the United States and New Zealand.

“Each time Polar Star arrives in Wellington, it’s a reminder of the strong partnership and shared commitment between the United States and New Zealand in Antarctica,” he said.

“Royal New Zealand Navy sea riders have become an integral part of these missions. Their expertise and upbeat approach are always appreciated by everyone on board.”

The USGC Polar Star in Wellington harbour. RNZ/Mark Papalii

Earlier this year marked the end of a multi-year effort between New Zealand and the United States, with the Polar Star delivering a new pier for scientific research at McMurdo Station.

Gehrenbeck said that the ship’s mission involves more than supporting scientific research.

“It’s about making sure people and supplies can move safely, so our hard-working teams are supported and research at the bottom of the world never stops.”

In January, the Polar Star crew performed a six-hour rescue operation for the cruise ship Scenic Eclipse II, which was trapped in ice near McMurdo Sound.

Over the past decade, the ship has regularly docked in New Zealand when sailing to and from Antarctica.

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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/2026/03/20/us-coast-guard-sails-into-wellington-harbour/

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Statement – Home support workers must be front of queue for fuel fix Nicola Willis – PSA

Source: PSA

The PSA is urging the Finance Minister to make 23,000 home support workers a priority when delivering urgent support to low income workers hit by sharply rising petrol prices.
Nicola Willis told media today she wants a ‘very targeted and temporary’ fix for those ‘acutely impacted’, adding she doesn’t want to see a situation where ‘people can’t drive to work.’
“We agree with Nicola Willis – and home support workers should be at the front of the queue – and right now there’s a fast, ready fix available that could be done today by raising their mileage allowance,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
The Finance Minister is seeking advice from Inland Revenue and Treasury about using the tax and transfer system to deliver support – tax credits under Working for Families or the Independent Earner Tax Credit. But neither may help many home support workers.
“These workers drive their own cars between clients every day, and are the only publicly funded workers required to do so with such a miserable mileage reimbursement. They have no choice but to drive and rising petrol prices are hitting them directly in the pocket with every shift.
“But there’s a simple, fast fix right now for these essential workers. The Home and Community Support (Payment for Travel Between Clients) Settlement Act 2016 requires Health NZ Te Whatu Ora to pay a mileage rate to these workers. The Health Minister can direct that rate to be lifted immediately, no complicated fiddling with the tax and transfer system required, no delay, just fast, real help.”
The allowance was last adjusted four years ago so should be being reviewed right now.
Fleur Fitzsimons said: “These are low-paid, predominantly female workers providing critical care to elderly and disabled New Zealanders. If the Government is serious about protecting working people from the fuel crisis, it can today deliver the support they need right now.
“The PSA urges the Government to do the right thing by these workers, today. They can’t afford to wait.”
Previous statement
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/statement-home-support-workers-must-be-front-of-queue-for-fuel-fix-nicola-willis-psa/

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Recognition – Safeguarding Children wins New Zealand Community of the Year 2026

Source: Safeguarding Children

A nationwide movement that has trained more than 93,000 advocates to recognise and respond early to signs of child abuse has been awarded the Mitre 10 New Zealand Community of the Year 2026.

Safeguarding Children CEO Willow Duffy accepted the award at the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards ceremony, reflecting on how the initiative has grown to have far-reaching impact around Aotearoa after starting “as an idea over a cup of coffee with three nurses and a detective.”

“Recognising that the rates of child abuse in New Zealand was one of the biggest public health issues, we put this idea together that we could inspire people to speak up for children, do the best for them and take steps to protect our tamariki not just in their homes but in their communities and places children go,” Duffy said.

Duffy said what continues to motivate her are the harrowing stories of child abuse, such as those from The Abuse in Care, Royal Commission of Inquiry, and firsthand accounts where the opportunities for adults to step in and prevent abuse are strikingly apparent, yet not taken.

“Protecting our precious taonga, our nation’s tamariki, is everyone’s responsibility. Safeguarding Children will continue to advocate for better safeguards to prevent abuse in New Zealand, as well as equip people with the knowledge and tools to step in and do the right thing.”

Duffy said she is humbled by the recognition the award brings. “The team behind the initiative make me so proud every day. We are supported by an incredible voluntary board who work so hard to give their time and make it happen, and sponsors who donate so we can do this work.

“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.”

Duffy said she hopes the recognition will help draw further attention to New Zealand’s shocking record of child abuse and support calls for change. “It requires a collective response from all levels to prevent abuse and create change for our vulnerable tamariki. Our work is far from done.”

 

About Safeguarding Children:  

Safeguarding Children’s vision is for the children and young people of Aotearoa New Zealand to be safe from abuse and neglect. 

 

Safeguarding Children is a registered charity and a leading provider of safeguarding and child protection education and guidance in New Zealand. It has trained over 50,000 New Zealanders on how to implement prevention measures within their organisations, work with vulnerable families and children, and recognise and respond to child abuse and neglect. Safeguarding Children believes a proactive, preventative approach produces the best outcomes for children, organisations and staff. It offers a range of services to suit the needs of any individual or organisation that works with children and young people. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/recognition-safeguarding-children-wins-new-zealand-community-of-the-year-2026/

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Fatal crash, SH 2, Waipaoa

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died following a crash on State Highway 2/Matawai Road, Waipaoa, this morning.

Police were notified of the two-vehicle crash near McMillan Road just before 7am.

Sadly, one person was found deceased at the scene.

Another person received serious injuries and was transported to hospital by ambulance.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit conduct a scene examination.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/20/fatal-crash-sh-2-waipaoa/