Category: Law

Posted on

On the run: Police recruitment run challenge at ‘Round the Bays

Source: New Zealand Police

Commissioner of Police Richard Chambers lead a team of 66 Police runners at the Southern Cross ‘Round the Bays event in Wellington this morning.

Staff from the Police executive, non-sworn employees, sergeants, constables and recruits took part, some running the 8.4km and others completing the 21km race.

New Zealand Police teamed with ‘Round the Bays to create a 2.4km recruitment activation as part of the ongoing recruitment drive which included an appearance by the Police Pipe Band and the Police Maritime Unit – Lady Elizabeth IV.

Commissioner Chambers entered the 8.4km run and made it home in under one hour, alongside fellow keen runner Assistant Commissioner Corrie Parnell.

Commissioner Chambers says, “In typical Wellington fashion, the wind was the winner on the day. It was excellent to see so many Police staff take part in the event, including our outstanding recruits. Fitness is an important part of the recruitment process and joining up with ‘Round the Bays allows us to reach future recruits who have got what it takes. Running is a big part of my daily routine – it helps keep me focused. I admit I had to eat Corrie Parnell’s dust in that race. However, I am pretty stoked I still hit the PAT time even if it was a little slower than the last time I did it about 30 years ago.”

Assistant Commissioner Parnell says, “I run daily as my primary form of exercise which also allows me time to decompress. On Saturday mornings I run the Parkrun 5K event which takes place at various locations across New Zealand and the world.  This is another great opportunity to network with like-minded people and gets you up and going at the weekend.”

Thanks to a timing mat at the 2.4km mark, runners could see if they have what it takes to train and complete the running portion of the police Physical Appraisal Test (PAT).

The run is part of the four components of the PAT and while the ‘Round the Bays time can’t be counted towards the PAT – it’s a great training tool to help with longer distance runs.

Two members of recruit wing 393, who graduate in March, raced home ahead of the Director of Training at the Royal New Zealand Police College, Superintendent Sam Keats. “I was running alongside Lachlan and Flynn for most of the race, and then towards the end, they burst off to finish ahead – they ran a great race.”

Wellington Harriers member, 14-year-old student Harry says, “I did the 8.4km run in 36 minutes today, which was pretty good”. Harry also easily completed other parts of the PAT – acing the standing jump and the grip strength test, two of the PAT components which were available to try at the finish line.

As part of the recruiting drive, Chambers wore a blue bib with emergency number 111 on it and Parnell wore the Police non-emergency number 105. 

For a bit of fun, other officers and Police employees wore bibs marked with Police radio codes such as 103, 106 and 107.

The Honda Half Marathon 21km race was won by Toby Gualter, the son of a retired former Police officer.

The next ‘Round the Bays run with a Police recruitment activation will occur in Auckland in two weeks on 8 March.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/on-the-run-police-recruitment-run-challenge-at-round-the-bays/

Posted on

Police urge caution on roads following heavy rain

Source: New Zealand Police

Motorists in the Waikato are being warned to drive with extreme caution and not attempt to drive through flooded roads.

A number of local roads and highways are shut across the district, including:

  • State Highway 39, between Otorohanga and Pirongia.
  • State Highway 3 between Mangaorongo Road and Ngahape Road.
  • Kiokio Station Road at Otorohanga.
  • Phillips Road at Otorohanga.

If you must travel, please slow down and be prepared for surface flooding or obstructions on road. Anyone travelling should check NZTA’s Journey Planner website for the latest highway conditions, and local council Facebook pages.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/14/police-urge-caution-on-roads-following-heavy-rain/

Posted on

HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge 2025 Achieves a Record 40% Surge in Participation

Source: Media Outreach

First-Ever Attack-Defence Simulation Aligns with Real Corporate Needs Setting a New Benchmark for Local Cybersecurity Competitions

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – As cyberattacks grow increasingly complex, cybersecurity has become a critical domain of global concern and a talent shortage. According to the latest “Hong Kong Cybersecurity Outlook 2026” released by the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre (HKCERT) under the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC), nearly 30% of the 622 surveyed enterprises still lack dedicated cybersecurity staff. Specifically, only 26% of SMEs have a dedicated cybersecurity role, significantly lower than the 59% of large enterprises, reflecting a gap in resource allocation and technology adoption among SMEs.

Now in its sixth year, “HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge” continues to attract top cybersecurity talents from Hong Kong and beyond, showcasing the capability and vitality of the next generation of local and international cybersecurity professionals.

To cultivate practical talent for the cybersecurity sector, the sixth “HKCERT Capture The Flag Challenge 2025” (HKCERT CTF Challenge) was successfully organised by the Digital Policy Office (DPO), HKPC, and HKCERT. This year’s competition was elevated to the first-ever adoption of an attack–defence mode, closely replicating the network setup of real enterprises. Participants experienced first-hand hacking techniques, system vulnerability analysis, threat intelligence gathering, and coordinated response in a simulated real-world environment. Through completing multiple tasks within a limited time, the competition also allowed them to break through the traditional classroom theoretical framework, gain practical experience and build confidence. The event attracted around 1,940 young contestants, an increase of nearly 40% from last year’s 1,385 participants, reaching a record high for the competition. Contestants included teams from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, Asia, and Europe, fostering cross-regional exchange and collaboration. In the finals, three local teams and one overseas team were awarded gold prizes in the Secondary School, Tertiary Institution, Open Category, and International Category respectively, while Sing Yin Secondary School received the “Best School Award”. The full list of awardees is available on the event website.

Participants Share Practical Experience Integrating AI into Attack and Defence
The competition was well received by contestants for its innovative format and realistic offensive and defensive environment, offering a valuable platform for learning and exchange. The winning team in the International Category, W&M, commented, “Our members are from Shanxi, Guangdong and Beijing. This was our first time competing together in the HKCERT CTF Challenge. The atmosphere and experience of the finals were excellent. The tasks were centred on an attack‑defence simulation, requiring us to find all vulnerabilities while patching our own systems and attacking other teams at the same time. Some vulnerabilities were discovered and exploited by other teams first, which kept the scores very close and made the competition incredibly tense and exciting”.

They added, “During the competition, we also applied lots of AI techniques for assistance, such as applying AI to analyse vulnerabilities and refine attack methods. In the future, AI may play a deeper role in areas like vulnerability detection and code analysis, but for now it cannot be fully relied upon—human oversight is still essential”.

HKCERT CTF Challenge has now been held for six consecutive years, with its scale expanding annually and participants showing continuous growth. Many secondary school students gain their first hands‑on exposure to cybersecurity through the competition and connect with university mentors, helping them shape their academic and career paths. Several past participants have gone on to compete in local and international events, committing to a future in the cybersecurity field. Beyond attracting overseas talent to exchange ideas in Hong Kong, HKCERT continues to build connections between cybersecurity professionals in Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland. Top‑performing teams can gain direct entry into equivalent finals in Chinese Mainland. For example, participants from the previous HKCERT CTF Challenge 2024 advanced directly to the finals of the “Greater Bay Area Cup Cybersecurity Challenge”, where they secured the top four places in the Hong Kong and Macao category. This also provided local contestants with access to world‑class cybersecurity techniques, effectively promoting cross‑regional elite collaboration and talent development.

Finals Format Upgraded: Attack-Defence Mode Mirrors Real Enterprise Operations
The finals were comprehensively upgraded this year. In addition to increase the overall technical difficulty, the competition introduced an attack‑defence format for the first time that closely mirrors real enterprise cybersecurity operations. Teams played dual roles—both attackers and defenders—in an environment created with reference to the real-world systems. The tasks simulated incident response and live attack-defence scenarios commonly encountered in the cybersecurity field. Within a limited timeframe, participants had to do penetration testing, exploit vulnerabilities and attack, while patching their own systems and monitoring threats in real time against attacks from other teams. This parallel attack‑defence setup reflects actual workflow patterns in the industry, effectively training participants’ analytical abilities and adaptability under pressure. Through hands‑on practice in a likely enterprise environment, contestants developed multifaceted, industry‑aligned capabilities—laying a solid foundation for their future careers in cybersecurity.

Ms Candy CHAN, Assistant Commissioner (Project Governance and Cybersecurity) of the DPO, highlighted the DPO’s commitment to enhancing Hong Kong’s cyber resilience, with one of its key initiatives being the nurturing of the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. She emphasised that the DPO has been collaborating closely with academia and industry partners to foster a robust talent pipeline and build a safer digital environment in Hong Kong. She noted that this year marks the sixth edition of the HKCERT CTF Challenge, which has grown into one of Hong Kong’s most respected and anticipated cybersecurity competitions over the years. Beyond being a contest of technical prowess, the Challenge serves as a dynamic platform for networking, knowledge exchange and community building among the new generation of cybersecurity experts.

Ir Samson SUEN, General Manager of Digital Trust and Transformation Division of HKPC, stated, “HKCERT CTF Challenge has consistently aimed to build an international platform for technical exchange. Through high-intensity simulated contests, we enhance participants’ cyber defence skills and promote cross-regional interaction among emerging cybersecurity talents. This cultivates a new generation of globally competitive professionals in Hong Kong and strengthens the local talent pipeline. This year’s finals first introduced a simulation of real-world cybersecurity operations, enabling teams to experience both offensive and defensive roles in a recent cybersecurity team. This hands-on approach is crucial for developing practical skills and incident response capabilities”.

Fostering Cybersecurity Awareness Across All Sectors of Society
To further enhance cybersecurity awareness across the community, HKCERT has partnered with the DPO and the Cyber Security and Technology Crime Bureau of The Hong Kong Police Force, to launch the “Building a Secure Cyberspace 2026” campaign to promote cybersecurity awareness. The initiative includes various educational activities, such as an “AI-Generated Four-Panel Comic”contest, which encourages the public to make good use of AI tools while strengthening their understanding of cybersecurity. At the corporate governance level, HKCERT will publish a series of practical guidelines addressing emerging risks —such as AI applications and supply chain security—highlighted in the “Hong Kong Cybersecurity Outlook 2026”, to support business in establishing a robust protection framework. In particular for AI governance, the guidelines will offer actionable recommendations covering AI system security assessments, compliance rules for employees using public AI platforms, controls over sensitive data input, and methods for monitoring and defending against AI‑assisted attacks. These resources aim to help enterprises systematically enhance their cyber resilience across governance, technology, and awareness.

As Hong Kong accelerates the development of innovation and technology and advances its digital economy, strengthening cyber defence capabilities has become a key talent need. HKCERT will continue to support businesses and the public through incident response, security guidance, and cybersecurity awareness programmes. The HKCERT CTF Challenge continues to play a vital role in nurturing local talent, fostering cross-regional collaboration, and advancing public education. By enhancing the overall level of protection, the competition contributes to the sustainable development of the digital economy and reinforces Hong Kong’s long‑term competitiveness.

The seventh edition of HKCERT CTF Challenge will be held in November 2026, featuring more innovative attack-defence challenges and continuing to set up an international category to provide local contestants with a platform for technical exchange with top teams from Hong Kong, Chinese Mainland, and overseas. Registration opens in September 2026, with finalists competing in the live finals in February 2027.

Hashtag: #HKCERT

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/2026/02/14/hkcert-capture-the-flag-challenge-2025-achieves-a-record-40-surge-in-participation/

Posted on

District court judges give evidence at conduct hearing for fellow judge Ema Aitken

Source: Radio New Zealand

District Court Judge Ema Aitken (centre) at the Judicial Conduct Panel on Monday. Finn Blackwell / RNZ

A district court judge described as one of the best on the bench, has had her behaviour scrutinised by a Judicial Conduct Panel this week.

Judge Ema Aitken is before the panel accused of yelling at Winston Peters during an event at Auckland’s Northern Club in 2024, calling him a liar.

She argues she did not yell, did not recognise Peters, and did not know it was a political event.

The panel hearing, which began earlier this, heard from district court judges on Friday who were there on the night of the alleged disruption.

They had been called after Special Counsel for the Inquiry requested the panel ask them to appear and give evidence.

Judge David McNaughton was among those sat at Judge Aitken’s table during a dinner of other judges and their partners.

He told the panel no one at the table was drinking to excess that night, with the “possible exception” of lawyer Michael Reed, KC.

Reed had been captured on video trying to photograph inside the NZ First event, despite being told not to.

Judge McNaughton read from his letter prepared for the Judicial Conduct Commissioner, but noted some of the words were not his.

“It’s not phrased exactly as I originally had,” he said.

“Some of this phrasing is not mine.”

He said there had been a panic to have the letter sent to the commissioner by deadline, and he signed it on a busy working day.

“It was emailed to me, it was a working day, I was very busy, I quickly read it, and signed it, and emailed it straight back because it had to go, I think, that day or the next day.”

Judge McNaughton had high praise to give Judge Aitken before the panel.

“I think she is one of the best judges on our bench,” he said.

“Her judgements are sound, they’re well reasoned, her reserve judgements are usually immaculate, of a very high standard.”

The judge would make an excellent High Court judge, Judge McNaughton said.

“In some ways, she was too good to be a district court judge, that’s my personal view of her.”

But by her own admission the day prior, the judge said she had acted rudely.

“I cannot really explain why I responded like this, other than that I was tired, and the speaker’s statement was so palpably wrong,” Judge Aitken said.

“It was reactionary, and rude of me which is not consistent with my character or reputation, I am not normally rude or intrusive in any setting.”

Another member of the bench, Judge Pippa Sinclair told the panel she had also been at a table with Judge Aitken, while the NZ First event was taking place in another part of building.

She recalled Judge Aitken coming back to the table at one point in the night, telling her she had called out Winston Peters.

“Sometime around the main course being served, Judge Aitken came back to the table and said ‘I’ve just told Winston Peters’, and I quote ‘he’s lying,’ and I further quote, ‘how could he say that,’ in response to him discussing tikanga in the law schools,” she said.

“Judge Aitken then said she realised it was Mr Peters when she saw a person whom she recognised and then, and I quote ‘clicked,’ it was Casey Costello.”

Judge Aitken told the panel on Thursday she had been at the club after a challenging day at court when she overheard comments about Tikanga Māori law overriding the Westminster system being taught in law schools.

She mouthed words to someone looking at her from inside the room where the event was taking place, who she later realised was NZ First MP Casey Costello.

“I made an audible remark once I reached the bottom of the stairs where I paused briefly,” Judge Aitken said.

Judge Sinclair told the panel she had not seen any signage for the NZ First event on her way in or out of the club that night.

The panel had been told on Thursday by NZ First Party president Julian Paul there had been a roughly two-metre tall banner by the door to their event.

Judge Sinclair was pressed on details about the night.

She said it was difficult to remember, given how much time had passed.

Under cross examination from the judge’s lawyer David Jones, KC, Judge Sinclair said she could be sure about the sequence of events, but not about what exactly was said.

“Of course I can’t be exactly sure down to the minutiae of what she said, because it was over a month after the incident, and I was recalling that, and I didn’t record the incident,” Judge Sinclair said.

“I’ve done the best to recall what I remember she said.”

Jones asked Judge Sinclair to share what she thought of the judge’s work.

“She is a very sound, and fine judge,” she said.

“I have the utmost respect for her ability as a judge and work as a judge.”

Judge Sinclair was asked by panel member Justice Jillian Mallon how loud Judge Aitken had been speaking when she returned to the table.

“She spoke clearly, she wasn’t shouting or anything like that,” Judge Sinclair said.

“She just spoke very clearly and matter of factly.”

The panel next heard from Judge Sinclair’s partner Trevor Haysom, who had also been at the judge’s table that night.

He was asked by special counsel if the judge had made any indication her comments had been an error or mistake.

“It wasn’t apparent to me at the time,” Haysom said.

“She made the statement but there was no significance in it, at that stage of the dinner anyway.”

The husband of another judge present that evening, Mark Sinclair, made glowing remarks about Judge Aitken and her husband Dr David Galler.

Sinclair said he had been made aware earlier that evening an NZ First event was also being held that night, saying he was surprised the party was holding a fundraiser at the Northern Club.

He described Judge Aitken as a useful mentor for his wife, Judge Allison Sinclair, who had been appointed after Judge Aitken.

Sinclair also spoke about the judge’s work establishing the Alcohol and Other Drug Treatment Court as well as her and her husband’s time working in Samoa.

“I hope when all this is over, I wish them all the best, and that their good work is not forgotten, because of the accusations that have been made as part of this process.”

The inquiry continues next week.

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/2026/02/13/district-court-judges-give-evidence-at-conduct-hearing-for-fellow-judge-ema-aitken/

Posted on

Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life in prison

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fifty-one people were killed in two attacks on mosques in Christchurch in 2019. RNZ / Nathan Mckinnon

The Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life behind bars but his claims of torturous prison conditions are exaggerated, a court has heard.

Australian white supremacist Brenton Tarrant made the 686 complaints from 16 March 2019 until September 2024, amounting to more than one complaint every three days.

The 35-year-old is serving a life sentence without parole for the 2019 shootings at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre but now wants the Court of Appeal to overturn his convictions and sentence.

The terrorist claims he was “forced” to plead guilty to 92 charges because he was irrational as a result of torturous and inhumane prison conditions.

The white supremacist left 51 people dead or dying in little over 15 minutes after taking an arsenal of semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and incendiary devices to the mosques as worshippers marked Jumu’ah – the most significant prayer of the Muslim week – and opening fire.

The terrorist initially pleaded not guilty in June 2019 to 51 counts of murder, 40 of attempted murder and one of committing terrorism.

The court has heard he wavered in late July 2019 and prepared to plead guilty before again changing his mind only days later.

In March 2020 he formally pleaded guilty to all charges and was jailed for life without the possibility of parole in August 2020.

The terrorist had 20 working days to file an appeal against his conviction or sentence but the “out of time” application came years later.

Crown solicitor Andrea Ewing told the court only four of the terrorist’s 686 complaints related to accessing a lawyer.

She said the terrorist had claimed a complaint was upheld in relation to some kind of physical incident.

“So what we have is a hearsay assertion from Mr Tarrant to his expert that a complaint was upheld,” she said.

The Crown called on the court to dismiss the terrorist’s application for leave to appeal.

Crown solicitor Madeleine Laracy said there was no possible risk of a miscarriage because the terrorist had no legal defence to offer a trial and conviction was certain.

She also called on the court to provide finality for his victims, New Zealand’s Muslim community and the wider public.

“There are literally hundreds of directly harmed victims in this case and keeping this case alive is source of immense distress for those individuals,” Laracy said.

The terrorist’s lawyers reiterated the conditions their client was confined in were unlike anything else present in the prison system.

Justices Christine French, Susan Thomas and David Collins reserved their decision.

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/2026/02/13/christchurch-terrorist-made-almost-700-complaints-about-life-in-prison/

Posted on

PSA calls for review of Law Commission President appointment

Source: PSA

The PSA is calling for an independent review of the appointment of the new Law Commission President after revelations Hon Judith Collins was appointed without any recruitment process, selection panel or consideration of rival candidates.
“This is a concerning breach of good practice for appointments to independent institutions and we call for an independent review,” said Duane Leo, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“Judith Collins was the only person considered for this role – there was no contestable process, no advertising, no shortlisting. It amounted to a simple Cabinet confirmation.
“This is not a reflection on Judith Collins’ credentials, but without a proper process, how can New Zealanders have confidence the best person was appointed?
“There are many highly qualified legal experts who were denied any chance to apply. This is a pivotal role in our legal system – one that brings an independent lens to important legal issues – and it merits a thorough, transparent selection process.
“The irony is stark. Just this week in Parliament, as Public Service Minister Judith Collins spoke about the Public Service Amendment Bill, saying ‘This bill reaffirms the principle of merit-based appointments… We’re strengthening the Act to make sure that the best person for the job is the one who gets it, not the most familiar or the easiest option but the person with the right skills and experience to deliver.’
“What’s good for the goose should be good for the gander. The Government can’t lecture public servants about merit-based appointments while ignoring these very principles when rewarding one of its own with a prestigious taxpayer-funded role.
“Cabinet guidelines require such appointments to follow good practice processes set out by the Public Service Commission. Those processes exist to protect against cronyism and ensure public confidence in our institutions.
“We note that Foreign Minister Winston Peters has previously stopped the appointment of former politicians to top diplomatic roles for exactly this reason – to maintain proper standards and avoid the perception of political rewards.
“This appointment sets a worrying precedent. The Law Commission’s independence and credibility depend on public confidence that its leadership is above political influence.
“New Zealanders deserve better. They deserve transparency in how senior public roles are filled, and confidence that merit – not political loyalty – determines who gets these positions.”
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/2026/02/13/psa-calls-for-review-of-law-commission-president-appointment/

Posted on

Nowhere to go: Police response rounds up offenders

Source: New Zealand Police

A Police operation in Pukekohe quickly rounded up several persons of interest in recent aggravated robbery investigations.

The situation unfolded on Thursday afternoon with Police resource flooding into the township, resulting in three sought offenders being arrested.

Detective Inspector Karen Bright, from Counties Manukau CIB, says an off-duty officer located a group near the Michael Hill jewellery store.

One of the group was sought in connection with an aggravated robbery at a Napier Michael Hill store on 3 February, and a Papatoetoe bar on 10 February.

“The group were acting suspiciously near the chain’s Pukekohe store before leaving in a vehicle,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

“Upon realising the risk that a further robbery may be imminent additional Police resource was deployed into the township; on the ground and in the air.

“Our staff were highly visible and there was nowhere this group could go.”

Meanwhile, the National Retail Investigation Support Unit notified Michael Hill whose stores implemented additional security measures.

Prevention patrols were also initiated across the Auckland region at other locations.

  • Police strike:

A breakthrough moment came when a unit sighted the vehicle of interest on Manukau Road.

With the Eagle helicopter also overhead, Police had eyes in many locations.

“Despite the vehicle being abandoned on a side road, our frontline staff quickly deployed into the area,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

“A short time later, a suspicious activity report came in where a group of young people were seen changing their clothes at a nearby high school.

“Units were soon on scene stopping two young people, while Eagle observed two other males trying to walk away from the area.”

They were no match for frontline staff who quickly gave chase on foot on Harris Street, with both males giving up and being arrested.

  • Charges laid:

Detective Inspector Bright says with people in custody, the Counties Manukau Major Crime Team worked into the night to lay appropriate charges.

– A 17-year-old male has been charged with two counts of aggravated robbery, for the Napier and Papatoetoe incidents, as well as four counts of unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

– A 15-year-old male has also been charged with aggravated robbery over the Papatoetoe incident on 10 February.

– Another 17-year-old male has been charged with aggravated robbery over an incident at a Takanini vape store on 23 January. He also faces several charges relating to vehicle crime.

“This is an outstanding result by every single staff member involved in responding on Thursday,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

“Between a highly visible Police response and partnerships with retailers, we have prevented further offending from taking place.

“These young people are now all before the Manukau Youth Court.”

ENDS. 

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/nowhere-to-go-police-response-rounds-up-offenders/

Posted on

One killed, others injured in crash on Canterbury highway

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / REECE BAKER

One person has died following a crash in north Canterbury that left multiple people trapped.

Emergency services were called to State Highway 7, north of Waikari, at about 6.40am on Friday after a car went off the road.

At least four Fire and Emergency NZ crews worked to help free people trapped in the car.

Police said despite best efforts of emergency services, a critically injured person died at the scene.

St John said two others were in a serious condition and a third person was in a moderate condition.

State Highway 7, between McRaes and Mt Alexander roads, was blocked as a result of the crash, a police spokesperson said.

“The road remains closed while emergency services work at the scene.

“Inquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.”

St John had sent three ambulances and a helicopter to help.

The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.

“Traffic management is in place and motorists should expect delays.”

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/2026/02/13/one-killed-others-injured-in-crash-on-canterbury-highway/

Posted on

Warrant to arrest: Steven Te Maru Walters

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are working to locate Steven Te Maru Walters, who has a warrant for his arrest and is wanted by Police.

Walters, 40, is wanted by Police in relation to breaching his release conditions and is known to frequent the Whangārei area.

It’s believed he is actively avoiding Police.

If you have seen Walters or have any information that may assist in locating him, please update us online now or call 105.

Please use the reference number 250220/4117.

Alternatively information can be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/warrant-to-arrest-steven-te-maru-walters/

Posted on

National strategy launched to cut AML red tape and crack down on criminals

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee has today released New Zealand’s new Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (AML/CFT) National Strategy.

“The Strategy for 2026–2030 sets out a four-year work programme to make it easier for honest New Zealanders and businesses to get ahead, while making it harder for criminals to hide and profit,” says Mrs McKee.

“Developed in consultation with industry, the Strategy provides clear direction and certainty – setting out the Government’s priorities and objectives so the AML/CFT system can plan ahead with confidence.”

“AML/CFT rules have drifted into expensive box-ticking. That creates delays, frustration, and compliance costs that get passed on to consumers. My reform programme is focused on fixing that.

“The new AML/CFT system will be truly risk-based, to cut unnecessary red tape for low-risk customers and transactions, while sharpening enforcement where it matters most.

“We want banks, real estate agents, lawyers and other reporting businesses focused on genuine risk – not chasing low-risk paperwork that does nothing to stop organised crime.

“That means fewer unnecessary hurdles for New Zealanders – like parents opening accounts for their children, or New Zealanders simply trying to complete basic transactions.

“It also means a stronger system that better detects, deters and disrupts serious crime – including fraud, drug crime and offshore criminal proceeds.

“To make compliance clearer and more consistent, the Strategy confirms the move to a single AML/CFT supervisor – with the Department of Internal Affairs taking over supervision from 1 July this year.

“Businesses have told me they want clarity and consistency. A single supervisor means less confusion, better guidance, and a system that supports compliance.

“The Strategy sets out a clear vision for all participants and will help deliver the most significant regulatory relief since the AML/CFT regime began in 2013. 

“This builds on the work already delivered by this Government, including simplifying customer verification to end years of frustration for both businesses and customers.”

Notes to editor:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/national-strategy-launched-to-cut-aml-red-tape-and-crack-down-on-criminals/

Posted on

Melco attains world’s most Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards in 2026 for any integrated resort operator

Source: Media Outreach

Melco, with its American depositary shares listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (Nasdaq: MLCO), is a developer, owner and operator of integrated resort facilities in Asia and Europe. The Company currently operates City of Dreams ( www.cityofdreamsmacau.com) and Altira Macau ( www.altiramacau.com), integrated resorts located in Cotai and Taipa, Macau, respectively. In addition, the Company operates Studio City ( www.studiocity-macau.com), a cinematically-themed integrated resort in Cotai, Macau. In the Philippines, the Company operates and manages City of Dreams Manila ( www.cityofdreamsmanila.com), an integrated resort in the Entertainment City complex in Manila. In Europe, the Company operates City of Dreams Mediterranean, an integrated resort in Limassol, in the Republic of Cyprus ( www.cityofdreamsmed.com.cy). In South Asia, the Company manages the Nüwa hotel at City of Dreams Sri Lanka ( www.cityofdreamssrilanka.com), an integrated resort in Colombo, Sri Lanka. For more information about the Company, please visit www.melco-resorts.com.

Melco is majority owned by Melco International Development Limited, a company listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, which is in turn majority owned and led by Mr. Lawrence Ho, who is the Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/melco-attains-worlds-most-forbes-travel-guide-five-star-awards-in-2026-for-any-integrated-resort-operator/

Posted on

Taupō school fire: Students to keep studying from home next week

Source: Radio New Zealand

The school block destroyed in a suspected arson is being demolished. Taupō-nui-a-Tia College

Students from a Taupō secondary school that lost a classroom block in a suspected arson will continue learning from home next week.

Roads around Taupō-nui-a-Tia College, on Spa Road, were closed for about four hours on Sunday while firefighters battled the blaze.

Since Monday the school’s 1200 students have been doing lessons online at home.

Principal Ben Claxton said demolition of the destroyed block began on Tuesday and was continuing – meaning students couldn’t yet return.

“The demolition was expected to take a while and for all sorts of health and safety reasons we’ve asked our students to remain home for the remainder of this week and next week, at this point.

“We’re going to review it on Wednesday.”

Principal Ben Claxton says students will continue to learn online into next week. RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham

The destroyed classroom block had 11 teaching spaces, as well as housing the school’s health and counselling services.

Police have charged two youths with arson and they were due to appear in the Taupō Youth Court this week.

Claxton said he expected online learning to ramp up next week, and the school would communicate its expectations about that.

“Learning from home is a good option to have, but nothing beats face to face, so we are literally today starting to look at what we can do for the rest of the year.”

Some students and staff members were affected by what had happened and on Wednesday staff came together to share stories and plan for the future.

Although, Claxton said this week had been negotiated step by step, especially when the school was still in crisis mode.

Firefighters could be seen on the roof at Taupō-nui-a-Tia College during the fire. LES WILLS / SUPPLIED

In the short term some classes could be held in a nearby tertiary institution, which had volunteered its space. Claxton said that was getting finalised.

“The medium to long term is we’re hopeful of getting some form of relocatable-classroom situation onsite, to the number that we need.

“That’s all happening in the background with the ministry at the moment.”

Claxton said rebuilding projects could take time to plan and then begin.

A Ministry of Education spokesperson said it was exploring a range of temporary classroom options.

“The school continues to deliver online learning while the site is cleared and the best approach is determined.

“We understand the significant impact the fire has had on staff, students, and the wider community, and we are working with urgency to make sure any disruption to teaching and learning is minimised.”

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/2026/02/12/taupo-school-fire-students-to-keep-studying-from-home-next-week/

Posted on

Banking Ombudsman puts property partnerships under the spotlight this Valentine’s Day

Source: Banking Ombudsman Scheme

12 February 2026 – Partnering with friends or family members can be a great way to get on the property ladder, but it can come with risks, warns the Banking Ombudsman.
Nicola Sladden said a recent dispute investigated by the scheme was a timely reminder for people buying property with others to have a firm understanding of their rights in a partnership.
“Shared financial arrangements can work well when everyone is in agreement about goals and timeframes. But problems can arise when circumstances unexpectedly change,” said Ms Sladden.
“When relationships end, joint accounts, loans and partnerships can become tricky. It’s crucial to understand how your accounts are set up, and what your rights and obligations are. This knowledge can prevent a difficult situation from becoming even more stressful.”
In 2008, Sonia helped her son Nicholas and his wife Laura buy a home. The three formed a partnership to buy the property and jointly borrowed $320,000 from the bank.
When Nicholas and Laura separated in 2023, Sonia and Laura wanted to sell the property, but Nicholas told the bank they were in disagreement about what to do. The bank then refused to act on any instructions from the borrowers until the dispute was resolved. It also refused Sonia’s offer to repay the loan in full so the mortgage could be discharged.
The Banking Ombudsman scheme considered the bank had acted wrongly in refusing to discharge the mortgage. The loan terms allowed any of the three borrowers to repay the loan. Under section 97 of the Property Law Act 2007, a mortgagor has the right to repay a mortgage in full and “redeem” the property. The disagreement between the borrowers did not affect the partnership’s ability to give instructions to the bank because Sonia was able to pass resolutions without the others’ agreement and therefore instruct the bank on the partnership’s behalf.
The bank offered Sonia $10,000 to resolve her complaint, an offer she accepted.
Ms Sladden said the scheme’s guide on relationship breakdowns and banking recommends banking customers:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/banking-ombudsman-puts-property-partnerships-under-the-spotlight-this-valentines-day/

Posted on

Slavery victims tell of their years-long ordeal

Source: Radio New Zealand

Moeaia Tuai was sentenced to jail for more than 16 years on Thursday. RNZ / Marika Khabazi

This story discusses details of slavery and sexual abuse.

Two young people have told how they were held in slavery by an Auckland man for several years.

Former prison officer Moeaia Tuai, who is 63, was found guilty by a jury last year of two charges of slavery, two counts of rape and a string of other sexual assaults. He was on Thursday jailed for more than 16 years.

In a victim statement, one of the complainants said he took her youthful happiness, her voice and virginity, and she sometimes felt like her soul had left her body. “A lot of the time, I wish I wasn’t here,” she said, adding she wished she was living a normal girl’s dreams and living her life.

“But sadly, instead, I am one of those girls fighting demons and emotions I don’t deserve, every day,” she said.

“I find it very hard to communicate with others because I was always stopped from speaking with anyone and everyone… I often have flashbacks that just hold me back and I’d rather be home alone.

“To hear my mother’s heartbreak after 10 plus years of being kept apart – my mother’s first time in New Zealand was for a court case.”

She described Tuai and his relatives as a “narcissistic and hypocritical family”.

Suppression orders prevent any information likely to identify the victims from being published.

The second victim, a young man, spoke through tears about the good Samaritans who helped him when he ran away, frightened and not able to sleep at night.

The High Court in Auckland was packed with family and friends of Tuai and his victims, with several crying while the details of the offending were read out.

‘False testimony’

“My parents are now trying to rebuild the good life that was broken because of these people… A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

He spoke through an interpreter to the defendant and his relatives – some of whom gave evidence to the jury, but also faced allegations during the trial that they too were involved in the offending.

“To anyone who has given false testimony here, I pray that you feel repentance in your heart. A glass that has been shattered into tiny pieces cannot be put back together again.”

Only Tuai has been charged in connection to the offending, which occurred from 2016 to 2024.

The court heard he might face poor treatment, and need to be segregated if prisoners found out he was a Corrections officer.

Justice Michele Wilkinson-Smith was asked to consider whether Tuai could have a shorter sentence because of that, and also due to the effect his sentence would have on his sick wife. She granted a small reduction to the jail term – and noted his wife had also benefited from the offending.

Funding Tuai’s lifestyle

Sentencing Tuai, Wilkinson-Smith said the older complainant had been assured before arriving in New Zealand that he could finish his secondary school education, but he was immediately put to work at a boarding lodge that his wife’s sister owned.

After moving to Australia, Tuai took control of the male complainant’s internet banking, his bank card and passport, allowing him only $100 of his weekly pay for full-time work.

“He was funding your lifestyle,” she told Tuai, saying that only ended when the man ran away and managed to get a new passport to return to New Zealand.

Tuai, his wife and the second victim also returned to New Zealand, where she was told she could not go to school – and instead must supplement his state benefits by working cash in hand jobs.

“At one point, the female victim worked 57 consecutive days without a single day off, including weekends,” Wilkinson-Smith said.

“The evidence for that came from your own diary which recorded her working hours…You were using her as a source of labour and income, as you had previously used the male complainant. She had no autonomy and no access to the money she was earning.”

When she had a formal job, her estimated (lost) wages were $80,000.

Saddled with debts

She was ‘treated as property in every way’ by Tuai, who made her work for free, have sex with him, controlled her movements and restricted her ability to get help or report him.

Before he raped her, he bought alcohol to ply her with, using money from her own bank account.

“It is clear that as far as you were concerned, she was in New Zealand only for your benefit,” Wilkinson-Smith added.

He felt entitled to the money the two earned, ‘drained their bank accounts’ and threatened them with deportation, she said, leaving them saddled with debts through loans they were forced to take out.

Both young people suffered threatened and actual violence, and were told they would lose the right to stay in New Zealand if they did not “obey his orders” or alerted authorities.

The judge said slavery was not a “cultural misunderstanding” and she was worried about how widespread it might be.

“I hope that this case highlights for others that this is slavery. It is not legal. You cannot bring people to New Zealand to exploit them for their labour and income.”

Where to get help:

  • Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason
  • Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
  • Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO. This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends
  • Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666
  • Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234 or email talk@youthline.co.nz
  • What’s Up: 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787. This is free counselling for 5 to 19-year-olds
  • Asian Family Services: 0800 862 342 or text 832. Languages spoken: Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Japanese, Hindi, and English.
  • Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
  • Healthline: 0800 611 116
  • Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
  • OUTLine: 0800 688 5463
  • Aoake te Rā bereaved by suicide service: or call 0800 000 053

If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.

Sexual Violence

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/2026/02/12/slavery-victims-tell-of-their-years-long-ordeal/

Posted on

Car of Tekanimaeu Arobati, swept away in Mahurangi River, found

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police found the Nissan X-Trail in the Mahurangi River. NZ POLICE / SUPPLIED

The car of a man who was swept away in the Mahurangi River north of Auckland last month has been found.

Tekanimaeu Arobati disappeared during severe weather on 21 January.

The 47-year-old’s body was found three days later in the river.

Now, police have recovered his SUV from the river.

Police found the Nissan X-Trail in the Mahurangi River. NZ POLICE / SUPPLIED

It was found on Thursday after the police national dive squad was sent in.

Arobati was described as a kind, strong, and straight-talking man who was deeply loved by his family, his brother-in-law Kai Tenanoa earlier told RNZ.

Police said their thoughts were with Arobati’s family and the wider Kiribati community.

His death was being referred to the Coroner.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/car-of-tekanimaeu-arobati-swept-away-in-mahurangi-river-found/

Posted on

Burglar caught by victim in their own web

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Acting Superintendent Ash Tabb, Christchurch Metro Acting Area Commander:

A quick-thinking member of the public led Police to a burglar after spotting their own stolen tools on Facebook marketplace.

They arranged to meet the seller and viewed the tools which were reported stolen in January. After seeing the engravement they made, the victim knew the tools were theirs. As they left, they snapped a picture of the offender to pass onto Police. 

Police executed a search warrant on the property and located the tools, returning them to the victim. A further three bags and crate of tools were seized for officers to evaluate whether they were stolen.

A firearm was also located and seized from the roof space.

A 33-year-old man will appear in the Christchurch District Court tomorrow on a range of charges including receiving stolen property, unlawfully possessing a firearm, and drugs charges.

Police will continue to investigate to determine whether the seized items have been reported stolen.

To prevent theft and help to recover tools:

  • Store your tools securely in a locked cupboard, out of sight.
  • Engrave the tools to help identify them during recovery.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/burglar-caught-by-victim-in-their-own-web/

Posted on

Health NZ shrugs off red ratings for big hospital builds

Source: Radio New Zealand

The project management office for the new Dunedin Hospital. RNZ / Delphine Herbert

Health New Zealand says two of its flagship hospital rebuilds are on track despite red alerts put on them months ago.

The red ratings on the Nelson and Dunedin projects were in the latest publicly available investment report from Treasury dated mid-2025.

Around that same time, the central health agency had rated itself badly with Treasury for how it managed its billions in assets, joined in the dog-house by Police and Defence on the latest measurement known as the Chief Executive Annual Attestations.

The Treasury investment report meanwhile showed the Dunedin outpatients building project under cost pressure, by a sum that was blanked out.

It also redflagged Nelson to ministers for not having its business case ready in time for Budget 2026 decisions.

Health NZ said on Wednesday that this related to Nelson’s future stages of work and there was no impact on construction timelines or the expected operation of new facilities.

“The project continues to progress as planned,” said head of delivery of infrastructure, Simon Trotter.

The Nelson project was shrunk to under half its former budget and cut into phases by the present government.

In Dunedin’s new hospital build, the cost risks had since been managed and it was expected to open within budget on time later this year, Trotter said.

The wider programme that included the bigger inpatients build was also expected to be delivered within approved funding.

The total budget was set at $1.88 billion a year ago after the government rescoped it in the face of public protest, on the grounds sticking with the previous plan would blow it out to maybe $3b.

Health Minister Simeon Brown (R) and Nelson Mayor Nick Smith (second from right) open the new emergency department at Nelson Hospital in November 2025. Samantha Gee / RNZ

Trotter also commented that a red rating reflected an assessment against specific reporting measures at a point in time and “does not necessarily indicate a delay to delivery”.

However, Treasury’s description of a red rating was that: “Successful delivery appears to be unachievable. There are major issues which at this stage do not appear to be manageable or resolvable. The programme may need re-baselining and/or overall viability re-assessed.”

Falling short on keeping up

In the other Treasury pulse-taking reports to ministers – the attestations – Health, Defence and Police scored the worst for meeting higher standards for managing their billions of dollars of assets.

Infrastructure experts have castigated public agencies in general for not keeping across the state of their buildings or spending enough on maintenance – the country’s leaky courts have been an egregious example of lack of maintenance, which a series of expensive projects were now trying to sort out.

Since 2023, 62 agency chief executives have had to attest to Treasury annually on how they measure up in 25 areas such as taking care of really critical assets.

A minnow like Antarctica NZ that has been caught up in stop-start rebuilding was non-compliant in only one of the 25 (some measures did not apply) in the latest attestations done last July.

One or two non-compliances were common, such as at Internal Affairs, and perhaps surprisingly Justice, and Kainga Ora, which has massive assets. Education complied with all 25.

By contrast, Health NZ failed in more than half – for 13 out of 25 measures, including being too slow setting up investment assurance standards for its failure-prone digital services; and not properly keeping track of “the identity, condition, and risk exposure” of its service-critical assets.

This last was a black mark against the Defence Force, that missed on seven measures, even as it struggled with a $2-3b refurbishment of rundown housing and other facilities.

Police were non-compliant with the watchdog’s demands on eight fronts, telling Treasury they were five-10 years away with some, such as getting all their asset management plans done or having an IT set-up that could keep track.

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/2026/02/12/health-nz-shrugs-off-red-ratings-for-big-hospital-builds/

Posted on

High Court Judge wins right to have family bach dispute in private court

Source: Radio New Zealand

The case was taken to the High Court but had been referred to independent arbitration. (File photo) RNZ / Dan Cook

A High Court Judge has won the right to have a dispute over a family bach heard in private, rather than open court.

In 2022, Justice Anne Hinton sold her share of the bach to two of her four sisters – but her other sister, Gillian Gatfield and niece, Emma Pearson (who inherited her mother’s share) argued Hinton had, years earlier, promised to transfer her share to them.

They took their case to the High Court, but Hinton successfully applied to have it referred to independent arbitration.

The plaintiffs appealed the arbitration referral in November – but the Court of Appeal dismissed that on Thursday.

Hinton wanted arbitration because it was faster and cheaper than going through the courts – and private.

Her lawyers argued any judge hearing Hinton’s case in court would be put in a difficult position: either risking the perception of favouring a colleague, or ruling against her which would effectively question her credibility.

But Gatfield and Pearson disagreed.

Lawyer Matanuku Mahuika said “significant weight” was placed on Hinton’s role as a judge in her request for arbitration, which was “not appropriate”.

He urged the judges to be mindful of open justice and warned them against being seen to give preference to a fellow judge.

Mahuika also pointed out arbitration had never been ordered – as opposed to agreed to – in a trust dispute.

But in Thursday’s decision, the judges said the Associate Judge who ordered the arbitration was following the correct procedure.

“We consider that the court has power to order that an arbitration take place and to appoint an arbitrator, even when there is no agreement to arbitrate.

“We also consider there is nothing inherently inappropriate in doing so.”

The Judges said it was “unnecessary” to explicitly address all the matters Gatfield and Pearson’s lawyers raised as reasons against private arbitration.

“We agree with the decision made by the High Court,” their judgement said.

Mediation and arbitration were appropriate options in a case involving “strongly felt personal allegations”, it said.

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/2026/02/12/high-court-judge-wins-right-to-have-family-bach-dispute-in-private-court/

Posted on

Police clamp down following scooter robbery

Source: New Zealand Police

A man will scoot to court today following an alleged robbery in east Auckland yesterday afternoon.

Just after 4pm, Police were notified of an incident in Point England Road where a person had allegedly been assaulted and their scooter taken.

Auckland City East Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Tony Ngau Chun, says the victim was able to provide a detailed description of the alleged offender.

“Staff arrived quickly and were able to obtain a statement from the victim where he advised that the scooter was fitted with an AirTag.

“Based off that information Police attended an address in the nearby area and took one person into custody without issue.”

He says the scooter was also recovered from the property and returned to its rightful owner.

“We’re pleased we were able to locate this person and bring them before the Court to be held to account for their actions.”

A 49-year-old man will appear in Auckland District Court today charged with robbery.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/police-clamp-down-following-scooter-robbery/

Posted on

One in court following vehicle theft and attempted vehicle theft in Christchurch

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Senior Sergeant Hamish Keer-Keer

A 28-year-old Christchurch man is before the courts after unlawfully taking a vehicle and attempting to take further vehicles.

About 9.35pm on Wednesday 11 February, Police were called to Queen Elizabeth II Drive after a man allegedly stole another person’s vehicle following a three-vehicle crash.

It is reported the alleged offender crashed into two stationary vehicles at the intersection with Main North Road, before approaching another car involved in the crash.

The man has forced the driver from the car before leaving the area in the vehicle.

The stolen car has then been abandoned on Harewood Road where the offender has attempted to take a second vehicle, pulling a person from the driver’s seat.

After being unsuccessful in taking the vehicle, the man has abandoned the car before allegedly attempting to unlawfully take three further vehicles.

Fortunately, these drivers were able to drive away to safety.

A short time later, Police located the offender on Papanui Road where he was taken into custody without incident.

Following an initial search of the man’s first vehicle located on Queen Elizabeth II Drive, cannabis and items indicating supply were located.

Police continue to make enquiries into the circumstances of the incident.

While there were no serious injuries, a number of people have been left shaken by this incident and Police are providing them with support.

The 28-year-old man is due to appear in Christchurch District Court today, charged with possession of cannabis for supply, careless driving, driving in a dangerous manner, two counts of failing to stop or ascertain injury, and two counts of robbery.

If you have any information in relation to this incident, please get in touch with us online at 105.police.govt.nz, or call 105.

Please use the reference number 260212/9665.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/12/one-in-court-following-vehicle-theft-and-attempted-vehicle-theft-in-christchurch/