Police were out in numbers Wednesday night mitigating a gang gathering in the Rotorua area, as well as making a number of great arrests on unrelated matters.
A large group of gang members began gathering in Rotorua on Wednesday, but they weren’t Police’s only focus of the night, officers made seven arrests unrelated to the gathering, summonsed one person to court, and impounded a vehicle.
Officers will continue to have a visible presence in Rotorua today as the gang moves on through to Ōpōtiki.
A 30-year-old man was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, utensils for use, a firearm, and an offensive weapon, following a call to Police reporting suspicious behaviour on Aquarius Drive. He is due to reappear in Rotorua District Court on 27 March.
In a separate incident, around 9pm, Police saw a vehicle traveling in the Western Heights area that had been reported stolen the day before. When signalled to stop, the driver attempted to flee, Police pursued the vehicle, and it was spiked before coming to a stop on Harrold Crescent. Two youth were arrested.
A further three people were located and arrested on warrants to arrest, another was arrested for breach of conditions, and a final person had their vehicle impounded and has been summonsed to court for driving while disqualified.
Inspector Tristan Murray says just because there are officers in the area focused on ensuring there are no issues with the gang gathering, doesn’t mean any other matters or offending will fly under the radar.
“Police remain focused on the safety of the community, and we will continue to work hard to disrupt all illegal activity and hold offenders to account, whether it’s gang members or otherwise” he says.
Anyone who is witnessing illegal behaviour is urged to call 111 immediately. Any reports after the fact can be done through 105 with as much information as possible, either online or over the phone.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – i-Sprint Corporation today announced the successful completion of a management buy-out (MBO) of all its operating companies, and marks a pivotal milestone as the company celebrated its 25th anniversary last year. The transaction was led by the company’s existing management team in strategic partnership with KV Asia Capital.
This landmark transaction ranks among the significant Identity and Access Management acquisitions in Asia. It underscores i-Sprint’s strategic importance in the region’s cybersecurity landscape as AI-driven threats, machine identity proliferation, and tightening regulatory requirements reshape cybersecurity across the region. The deal positions i-Sprint for its next phase of innovation and global expansion, as it continues to invest in next-generation capabilities, while expanding its footprint across the region.
This milestone firmly establishes i‑Sprint as one of the region’s largest independent IAM, Quantum Safe and Mobile cybersecurity provider.
Dutch Ng, Chief Executive Officer of i-Sprint, commented: “This Management Buy-Out is a defining moment for i-Sprint and a testament to the strength of the business we have built and our deep belief in its future. Partnering with KV Asia Capital provides us with the strategic tools and capital to accelerate growth while preserving the entrepreneurial spirit and customer focus that define i-Sprint. We are grateful for the trust and support of our clients, partners, and team—and excited about the future we’re building together.”
KV Asia Capital has a proven track record of scaling growth-stage companies across Asia. Their expertise and financial backing will enable i-Sprint to enhance product offerings, invest in cutting-edge R&D, and pursue new market opportunities with greater agility.
Lee Gan Ping, Managing Director, at KV Asia Capital, said: “We are thrilled to partner with i-Sprint’s founders and management team, whose deep domain expertise and track record has earned the trust of Asia’s leading financial and government institutions. As identity and authentication become increasingly complex and relevant, we look forward to supporting the team in their next chapter of growth. Together, we will scale i-Sprint’s global footprint through accelerated R&D investments and strategic M&A.”
The existing management team will continue to lead the company, ensuring seamless operations and a continued focus on delivering innovative and superior products and services.
Hashtag: #iSprint
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Northland is entering a period of significant opportunity as regional partners, iwi, and industry leaders work together to strengthen Taitokerau’s economic future, the chair of the Joint Regional Economic Development Committee says.
Speaking today (subs: Friday 13 March) in Kerikeri at an event held by Ngāti Hine to mark the start of the kiwifruit season, regional councillor Geoff Crawford highlighted Taitokerau’s unique strengths and the energy building across the region.
“Northland is a region with extraordinary potential,” he says. “Our natural beauty, our communities, and our history of resilience and enterprise give us a foundation that many regions would envy.”
“Today’s gathering shows how closely our economic story is tied to the land and the people who care for it.”
Councillor Crawford told those at the gathering that improved infrastructure and connectivity are central to unlocking Northland’s economic potential.
Through the Joint Regional Economic Development Committee – made up of all four Northland councils – work was underway to develop a coordinated Northland Infrastructure Plan.
“Better roads, rail, and port capacity transform how businesses operate here,” he says. “For growers, infrastructure determines how quickly fruit reaches packhouses, how safely workers travel, and how reliably products get to market.”
Projects linked to Northport and the wider Marsden Point area were already opening the door to new logistics, manufacturing, and export opportunities across the region.
He says Northland’s primary industries remain a cornerstone of regional prosperity.
“Last season, the region’s kiwifruit sector earned a record $80 million in orchard gate returns from 700 hectares of production, and early forecasts suggest another strong year ahead.”
Councillor Crawford says more than 1500 people currently work in Northland’s horticultural sector, with half of those jobs in the Far North.
“There is huge potential for agriculture, horticulture, and forestry to move further up the value chain.” “By embracing processing, technology, and sustainability, we create higher-value products and more skilled jobs right here in Northland.”
He says the region is expanding beyond traditional summer tourism, with Northland Inc, the region’s tourism organisation, facilitating several initiatives.
“Eco-tourism, cultural tourism, and marine tourism create year-round employment while protecting the natural environment that makes Northland special.”
Meanwhile, Cr Crawford emphasises that long-term prosperity depends on investing in people, skills, and partnerships.
“Economic opportunity grows when local people have access to education, training, and pathways into meaningful careers,” he says. “Collaboration between iwi, business, government, and education providers ensures that development benefits stay within our communities.”
He highlights the strength of the Māori economy as a defining feature of Northland’s future and says Ngāti Hine’s leadership is a clear example of innovation happening on the ground.
Its recognition as a finalist for the Ahuwhenua Trophy – following Whangaroa Ngaiotonga Trust’s win in 2025 – demonstrates the impact of Māori-led ventures. (The trophy acknowledges and celebrates Māori business excellence in New Zealand’s pastoral and horticultural sectors.)
“These successes show what is possible when cultural values, industry expertise, and regional ambition come together.”
Councillor Crawford says ultimately regional development is about people and communities.
“Prosperity means young people can build careers without leaving home, families can thrive, and communities feel optimistic about the future.”
He acknowledges the work of Pukerau Orchard and Ngāti Hine as examples of regional strength in action.
“This whenua, the mahi invested in it, and the vision guiding it show how Māori enterprise is creating pathways for prosperity – not just for today’s workforce, but for generations to come.”
SINGAPORE – Newsaktuell – 13 March 2026 – The cooperation partnership is ready for the next round: Following the successful premiere of the RECHARGE Wind Power Summit 2025 powered by WindEnergy Hamburg at the CCH – Congress Center Hamburg last November, the RECHARGE Wind Power Summit 2026 Asia-Pacific powered by WindEnergy Hamburg is about to launch in the Asian metropolis of Singapore. It will take place at the Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre on 19 and 20 May. Supported by Enterprise Singapore and the Singapore Tourism Board, the new event underscores the city state’s role as a key hub for onshore and offshore wind in the APAC region which holds major growth potential.
WindEnergy Hamburg to show its colours in Singapore: RECHARGE Wind Power Summit Asia-Pacific presents a captivating conference and expo. Credit: Hamburg Messe und Congress/ Alexander Woeckener
On site: market leaders and industry associations
More than 1,000 participants, over 40 top-flight speakers, and around 50 exhibiting companies are expected. “Numerous companies representing all segments of the value chain have secured stand spots already,” says Andreas Arnheim, Director of WindEnergy Hamburg. Confirmed exhibitors include ZF Wind Power, Yixing Huayong Motor, Jiangsu Juxin Petroleum, and Seatrium, a leading Singapore-based offshore manufacturer. The event is supported by key industry organisations including the Asia Wind Energy Association (AWEA), the Association of Singapore Marine and Offshore Energy Industries (ASMI), Bundesverband Windenergie (BWE) and VDMA, Europe’s largest engineering association. Their leaders will use the occasion to network and advance wind power as the world’s key renewable energy source.
Conference will feature top-flight speakers
Headed “From ambition to reality: Why Asia is wind’s next big opportunity,” the conference will spotlight the region’s vast potential. Countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea or India, the latter aiming for 140 GW of wind capacity by 2030, are driving demand for technology and know-how. Experts from politics, industry and science will discuss policy frameworks, regulations, cost management, financing, and new technologies while strengthening cross-border cooperation. “It’s all about building strong industrial partnerships that take wind energy in the APAC region and beyond to a new level,” says Andrew Lee, Corporate Power Editor at DN Media Group’s news publication RECHARGE and co-host of the event.
The Summit builds on the successful 2025 debut in Hamburg and marks another milestone ahead of WindEnergy Hamburg 2026, taking place 22–25 September 2026.
More information: https://www.futureenergy.events/website/18561/
Hawke’s Bay Police investigating unlawful interference with vehicles in Clive are appealing for information to assist enquiries.
Detective Gabrielle Parsons says Police are investigating damage involving parked vehicles over the past week on Ferry Road, Tucker Lane, Allens Lane, Sutton Avenue and State Highway 51.
“The damage has mainly been done overnight.
“Windows have been smashed, vehicles rummaged through, and in some cases ignition was damaged.”
Police are conducting enquiries into the incidents to identify and locate those responsible.
“If you recognise anyone in these pictures, we believe they can assist us with our enquiries, please get in touch.”
We ask anyone who has seen suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles, or who has dashcam/CCTV footage from these streets between 6 and 12 March, to contact us as soon as possible.
Detective Parsons says it’s a good time to remember to park your vehicle off the street if possible, remove valuable items and lock it.
“Exterior lighting and operational CCTV help too, and if you see any suspicious behaviour as it’s happening please report it immediately on 111.”
Other information can be provided to Police online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking ‘Update Report’ or by calling 105.
Please use the reference number 260307/3517.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.
The latest data from Oranga Tamariki has shown significant improvement in performance against vital targets, leading to safer children and communities.
Minister for Children Karen Chhour has refocused Oranga Tamariki on what matters most, the care and protection of children.
This commonsense approach is bearing fruit, with Oranga Tamariki making strong progress against Ministerial and Government priorities in Quarter One.
“97% of children in care were visited by a social worker within the targeted time, demonstrating strong engagement and a focus on understanding the needs of children and young people.
“The National Care Standards (NCS) lead performance indicators are also now showing improvement with compliance against caregiver support plans rising by 8% in this Quarter alone.
“There has also been both a large reduction in children and young people with serious and persistent offending behaviour since June 2024 and a 14% reduction in children in State care residences being harmed.
“Young people are turning their lives around and being kept safer while doing so.
“This is not mission accomplished, I also acknowledge there is still room for improvement.
“Historically high reports of concern show that the public are stepping up and speaking out when they see concerning behaviours, which is hugely important and I thank everyone who comes forward, but it has made responding to these reports within a gold standard timeframe more challenging.
“Responding to this challenge will take more social workers, better case management technology, and a singular focus on the wellbeing of young people above all else.
“This is why we have invested $68m in new case management technology which will free up social workers to spend more time supporting young people and less time behind a desk.
“We’ve recruited twice the number of social workers compared to the number of social workers who left Oranga Tamariki in the last financial year. We’ve also invested in greater professional supports and training.
“There are still not enough supported accommodation places available to young people. Addressing this will take multiple government agencies working better together, something my colleagues and I are committed to achieving.
“Our children’s system is complex, and while in Opposition I was clear that Oranga Tamariki was not focused properly, with too many children falling between the cracks.
“I am committed to fixing this, it is my sole reason for entering politics and remain focused on child protection above all else.
“This latest data shows, while there is still work to be done, we’re moving in the right direction,” says Minister Chhour.
Police on the lookout for a stolen vehicle ended up locating not just the vehicle they were on the hunt for, but another luxury vehicle valued at more than $100,000.
At about 11.40pm, a unit was conducting patrols in the Flat Bush area looking for a Mercedes Benz, which had been reported stolen the previous day.
Detective Inspector Karen Bright, Counties Manukau CIB, says officers were making a number of enquiries and located the vehicle parked on Whakatupu Road.
“The vehicle was displaying altered number plates and officers have then conducted an enquiry at a nearby address, where the keys to the stolen Mercedes Benz were found.
“Officers also located a second stolen vehicle, another Mercedes Benz station wagon valued at more than $100,000.”
Detective Inspector Bright says two people were quickly taken into custody.
“We refuse to tolerate offending of this nature.
“This is a fantastic result and we’re pleased these people can be held to account.”
A 32-year-old man and a 38-year-old woman have been charged with aggravated robbery and will appear in Manukau District Court today.
Despite the diminishing supplies of natural gas in New Zealand, there is no shortage of LPG, GasNZ says.
Chief executive Jeffrey Clarke says most of the news about declining ‘gas’ production in New Zealand is actually about ‘natural gas’, and is not relevant to ‘LPG gas’ users.
“LPG supplies are not declining like natural gas is,” he says.
There are 300,000 customers of LPG in New Zealand – including all South Island ‘gas’ consumers – who don’t have to worry about the decline in natural gas affecting them.
People sometimes ask how they can be sure whether their gas is LPG or natural gas, Clarke says.
“It’s pretty simple – if your gas comes in a cylinder or tank, then it is LPG.
“If you are a South Islander, then your gas is LPG – because there is no natural gas supply in the South Island.
“And if your gas is piped to your home or business in the North Island, then it is probably natural gas.”
Clarke says that if you are in any doubt, just check with your retailer.
And what despite the war in the Middle East – LPG suppliers in New Zealand say that they have plenty of stock, he says.
“Most of New Zealand’s LPG comes from Australia and USA, with some produced here domestically.
“None of the LPG New Zealand imports is shipped through the Middle East.”
Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced two judicial appointments to the High Court.
Manukau Crown Solicitor Natalie Walker has been appointed as a High Court Judge, and Christchurch Barrister and Solicitor Christopher Gambrill has been appointed as a High Court Associate Judge.
Natalie Walker
Justice Walker graduated from the University of Auckland in 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws. After a period with Chapman Tripp, she attended University College London and graduated with a Master of Laws (Distinction) in 2000.
On her return to New Zealand in 2001, Justice Walker spent six months as a junior barrister for the late John Haigh QC before joining Auckland Crown Solicitor’s firm Meredith Connell. Specialising in Crown prosecution work in the District and High Courts, Justice Walker was made Senior Crown Counsel and an Associate of the firm in 2008, and joined the partnership in 2013.
In 2014, Justice Walker left the partnership at Meredith Connell to establish Kayes Fletcher Walker alongside two other directors. In 2015 she was appointed the Crown Solicitor at Manukau, the first appointment to that warrant. As a Principal Crown Prosecutor, Justice Walker prosecuted serious crime in the Counties Manukau region, and represented the Crown in appeals to the Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. Justice Walker also holds a Diploma of Māori Language Fluency from Te Wānanga Takiura o Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o Aotearoa.
Justice Walker’s appointment as a High Court Judge will take effect on 28 May 2026, and she will sit in Auckland.
Christopher Gambril
Associate Judge Gambrill graduated from Victoria University of Wellington with a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) in 1992, and worked with Simpson Grierson Butler White in Wellington until 1994.
In 1995 he joined London law firm Berwin Leighton and was admitted as a Solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales in 1996. On his return to New Zealand, he worked as a commercial litigator with law firms White Fox & Jones in Christchurch and Simpson Grierson in Auckland until 2005.
From 2005 to 2019 Associate Judge Gambrill was based in the United Arab Emirates, working with advocate and legal consultancy firms. He spent nine years as a special counsel with Everys Legal Consultancy, the branch of an English law firm, conducting proceedings before the Courts of the Dubai International Financial Centre, a separate common law jurisdiction operating in Dubai, and arbitrations.
Since March 2020, Associate Judge Gambrill has been a special counsel working in commercial litigation at Martelli McKegg in Auckland, with principal areas of practice including company and insolvency law, conflict of laws, and trust and equity, disputes. He is also a fellow of the Arbitrators’ and Mediators’ Institute of New Zealand.
Associate Judge Gambrill’s appointment as a High Court Associate Judge will take effect on 30 March 2026, and he will sit in Christchurch.
On the Chatham Islands, 800 kilometres east of mainland Aotearoa, New Zealand, a group of locals are mobilising to protect hundreds of endangered species, including eight types of albatross.
Chatham Islands albatross/toroa/popo. Photo by Dave Boyle.
Taking action for all living beings
The Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust has launched the first phase of its Predator Free Chathams project. This includes targeting introduced predators across an initial 7500-hectare area in the northeast of Rēkohu/Wharekauri/main Chatham.
“Predator Free Chathams is a big step in something larger, for all our communities – human, plant, animal, everything that’s part of our ecosystems,” says Hamish Chisholm, the Trust’s Project Lead and a sixth-generation islander.
Success in this area will show what’s possible for the biggest island in the archipelago, Rēkohu/Wharekauri, and further activate the local movement, he says.
“We’re currently building a network of AT220 automated traps targeting possums and rats in the operational area, and we are working with the Hokotehi Moriori Trust to remove feral cats.
“We’re treating this phase like a pilot – what we learn here will help inform how we approach the rest of the island. We want to build greater opportunities for community involvement and support as we are quite a small organisation with two staff, our trustees, and some dedicated volunteers we couldn’t do without.”
Project lead, Hamish Chisholm, amongst the bracken at Te Whanga Lagoon.
Stories of native species revival
The Chatham Islands community has a proud history of bringing species back from the brink of extinction.
This includes the parea, a wood pigeon much like kererū on mainland Aotearoa, whose population has risen from about 40 birds to around 600.
Another example is the Chatham Island tāiko which was once one of the world’s rarest seabirds before sustained predator control and species recovery work started.
“Tāiko are being carefully monitored and protected in the south of main Chatham by another local conservation group, the Chatham Island Taiko Trust, with 52 known breeding pairs returning to their burrows in the 2024/25 season,” Hamish says.
The parea/Chatham Island pigeon is closely related to the slightly smaller kererū on mainland Aotearoa, New Zealand. Photo by Jess MacKenzie
The project has many stories to draw upon, including the rescue of the kakaruia/karure/black robin which helped put Aotearoa on the international conservation stage in the 1980s.
“Dropping to just five individual birds, DOC teamed up with locals to help bring this species back from the brink, and it now exists on the two nature reserve islands, Mangere/Maung’Re and Rangatiara/Hokorereoro,” Hamish says.
“These islands are now reaching their population capacity, highlighting the real need for safer habitat to be created in other areas of the archipelago.”
“One of the highlights from last year was translocating some hakoakoa/tītī to revive an old seabird site in the area, as part of a project led by the Hokotehi Moriori Trust,” Hamish says.
“These chicks all fledged successfully, and the second translocation of chicks is due to happen at the end of March.”
Image: Hakoakoa/tītī translocation into the northeast project area led by the Hokotehi Moriori Trust.
Creating a sustainable future for the Chatham Island community
The livelihood of the local community is also the heart of the vision for Predator Free Chathams, Hamish says.
“Our mahi isn’t just about endangered species, although we do have 326 of those living across the archipelago. By rewilding and restoring whole ecosystems in the archipelago, we can mitigate against climate change and help create a sustainable future for the 700 or so people who live on these remote islands.”
This includes creating environmental career pathways for young people on the island so they can stay if they choose and help restore their home while building valuable skills.
“Our gardens and agriculture will also benefit a lot, with opportunities for alternative land use or new approaches to farming. With the incredible number of seabirds, and unique species out here, there are also great possibilities for well-managed ecotourism.”
Chatham Islands albatross/toroa/popo on its nest with a chick. Photo by Dave Boyle.
Hamish says there are important opportunities to learn in the Chathams that could benefit the wider predator-free movement and conservation efforts across the country, particularly if a project to remove feral cats from Pitt Island can find funding to go ahead.
“From approaches to targeting feral cats to insight on eradicating predators on inhabited islands, we’re keen to be part of that big picture, working towards a Predator Free Aotearoa where nature, including the people who live in it, is thriving.”
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The Chatham Islands Landscape Restoration Trust and Predator Free Chathams has been supported by a range of organisations along the way, including WWF, Wellington Zoo, Predator Free NZ Ltd, Pacific Development Fund, private donors, Chatham Islands Council, and more recently through two operational grants from the Department of Conservation.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has welcomed Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn to New Zealand.
It is the first high-level visit to New Zealand by a Cambodian Minister since 2019 and signals a deepening of the New Zealand-Cambodia relationship.
“Cambodia is a steadfast and trusted partner of New Zealand in the Indo-Pacific region,” Mr Peters says.
“We collaborate on development, work together in regional and multilateral forums, and there are close links between our people in areas such as development and education.
“Deputy Prime Minister Prak’s visit to New Zealand closely follows our visit to Cambodia in November, demonstrating our mutual commitment to the relationship,” Mr Peters says.
During their talks in Auckland, Mr Peters announced NZ$7.5 million in additional support for mine clearance, risk reduction and access to victim assistance in Cambodia.
Discussions also focused on geostrategic challenges and the shared commitment to the rules-based international system and promotion of regional peace, security and prosperity.
Human remains located on Coppermine Island (Mauipane), east of Whangārei have been identified as belonging to a person who went missing in May 2024.
On 20 December 2025, a member of the Department of Conservation contacted Police after finding the remains on the island.
The remains have since been examined by a pathologist, anthropologist, and ESR scientists as we worked to identify who the person was.
Following the examination, the human remains have now been confirmed as those of missing person Ferzil Babu, who went missing while on a fishing trip at The Gap, Taiharuru on 1 May 2024.
Police have since spoken with Ferzil’s family to inform them of the finding.
Police extend their sympathies to his loved ones at this difficult time.
Attribute to Hastings Child Protection Supervisor, Detective Sergeant Kate Hyde:
Police acknowledge the sentence handed down to Manase Uaisele in Napier District Court today.
The 33-year-old was sentenced to five years and five months’ imprisonment after being found guilty of 12 charges relating to sexual offending and indecently assaulting multiple young girls.
Police would like to thank the victims and their families for working so closely with Police throughout the investigation process.
It takes a great deal of courage to come forward and stand up to your abuser, and these brave actions of the victims has not only led to holding Uaisele to account but may have also protected other children from suffering how they did.
While this does not change the damage that Uaisele has caused, Police hope the victims are able to find some closure in this outcome to hopefully help during their healing process.
This matter has now been concluded in Court, however, Police will take further complaints should any other victims come forward.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters has welcomed Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Prak Sokhonn to New Zealand.
It is the first high-level visit to New Zealand by a Cambodian Minister since 2019 and signals a deepening of the New Zealand-Cambodia relationship.
“Cambodia is a steadfast and trusted partner of New Zealand in the Indo-Pacific region,” Mr Peters says.
“We collaborate on development, work together in regional and multilateral forums, and there are close links between our people in areas such as development and education.
“Deputy Prime Minister Prak’s visit to New Zealand closely follows our visit to Cambodia in November, demonstrating our mutual commitment to the relationship,” Mr Peters says.
During their talks in Auckland, Mr Peters announced NZ$7.5 million in additional support for mine clearance, risk reduction and access to victim assistance in Cambodia.
Discussions also focused on geostrategic challenges and the shared commitment to the rules-based international system and promotion of regional peace, security and prosperity.
The BusinessNZ Energy Council (BEC) welcomes new analysis providing greater transparency on the future of New Zealand’s natural gas sector, saying it reinforces the scale and urgency of the supply challenge facing the economy.
BusinessNZ Chief Executive Katherine Rich says a newreportcommissioned by natural gas industry body Gas Industry Co confirms that New Zealand faces a rapid and unprecedented decline in domestic gas supply.
“BEC has been raising concerns about declining natural gas availability since its Gas Users Forum last year, warning of the risks to businesses and the wider economy if supply continues to fall without credible alternatives.
“Evidence of the strain is already emerging. This latest report notes that high gas prices and supply uncertainty are forcing some users to cut production, raise prices or close operations. These trends were also identified inBEC’s gas users surveylast year. Introducing LNG imports from 2028 could materially ease the pressure.”
Rich says a pathway combining local gas with LNG imports would support a smoother transition, giving the energy sector time to build additional renewable generation and network capacity, while allowing consumers and businesses to move away from gas at a manageable pace.
“But even with LNG imports, without viable transition pathways for businesses, reductions on that scale risk economic contraction, job losses and business closures.
“Ensuring New Zealand has a realistic transition pathway is critical. Businesses need time, certainty and workable alternatives if they are to adapt while continuing to invest, produce and employ New Zealanders.”
The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.
“Climb over your mates if you have to but don’t miss out on tickets for Jim Beam Homegrown in Hamilton this weekend.”
That’s the message from local businessman, entrepreneur, hotelier and ultimate Jim Beam Homegrown fan Pienaar Piso as the Festival enters its final hours before gates open on Saturday.
In just over 24 hours’ time, one of Aotearoa’s most iconic music festivals will return to Hamilton for the first time after 18 years on Wellington’s waterfront, transforming Claudelands Oval in Kirikiriroa into a full-scale Kiwi music playground.
And Hamiltonians are ready!
“We have been counting down to this since the day it was announced,” says Vanessa Williams, General Manager of the Hamilton Central Business Association. “Events like this bring incredible energy into the city. It is not just about the festival itself, it is about people exploring Hamilton, discovering new places and supporting local businesses along the way. We want every visitor to feel like a local while they are here.”
Jim Beam Homegrown CEO and managing director Andrew Tuck says the festival site has shifted into full festival mode.
“This is the moment where everything comes together,” says Tuck. “The stages are built, the sound systems are firing up and crews are moving at full pace to get every last detail locked in. You can feel the buzz building already. The artists are arriving, the city is humming and the stage is set for an epic celebration of Kiwi music.”
Over the past three weeks, hundreds of crew members, technicians and suppliers have been working around the clock transforming Claudelands Oval into a multi-stage festival destination.
Wherever possible, local Waikato suppliers have been part of the build — from scaffolding and staging to fencing, electricians, lighting, security and food vendors.
“It’s been incredible to see the scale of work going into bringing this event to life,” says Tuck. “We’ve had a huge response from the Waikato community and a lot of local businesses have played a role in getting us to this point.”
While the festival marks a return to its regional roots, the Hamilton event is arriving bigger than ever.
Two additional stages have been added this year, expanding the range of music and experiences for festival goers. The inaugural Precision Live Dance Stage will also add a new dimension, with some of Aotearoa’s best street and break dancers battling it out throughout the day.
With the schedule confirmed, the site nearly show-ready, and the final sound checks underway, the countdown is almost complete.
“Right now it’s all about the final touches,” says Tuck. “Tomorrow the gates open and Hamilton becomes the home of Kiwi music.”
Jim Beam Homegrown is New Zealand’s largest Kiwi-only music festival, celebrating the best of Aotearoa’s musical talent. Established in 2008 in Hamilton, initially as X*Air, an extreme sports festival, Jim Beam Homegrown showcases a wide range of genres, including rock, funk, pop, reggae, hip-hop, and electronic music.
The Green Party has selected Waikanae resident Asher Wilson-Goldman as their candidate for the new Kapiti electorate at this year’s general election.
“I can’t wait to share the Greens’ positive vision for Aotearoa with Kapiti residents,” said Asher Wilson-Goldman.
“For too many people in our electorate, it’s harder now than it was three years ago to put food on the table and keep a roof over our heads.
“The Greens have a plan to see nature thrive, and for everyone to have what they need to live a good life.
“I’ve helped lead some of the public sector’s largest pieces of work, so I understand the power of the public sector to improve lives, when we have a Government that supports them to do it.
“Locally I’ve volunteered my time helping to set up Predator Free Kāpiti Coast, sorting through donations to the Kāpiti Foodbank, and advising Council on improving walking, cycling and horse riding access for recreation and transport.
“I’m a relentless advocate for Kāpiti every chance I get, and I’d love to take my voice to Parliament to fight for better healthcare, better housing and real action on climate change.
“By giving your party vote to the Greens this November, you’ll be part of our movement for stronger communities and a healthy planet,” said Asher Wilson-Goldman.
The Government ploughed ahead with slashing Health NZ’s IT workforce, despite being told of the risks to patient care, an explosive internal report reveals.
The report – ‘End user impact of digital change – consequences’ was obtained by the PSA under the OIA and was prepared around March 2025 as Health NZ Te Whatu Ora refined proposals to almost halve its IT workforce (report attached).
“Thereport is a crystal-clear warning that cutting the jobs of IT experts will increase risks to patients – and that was ignored by Health NZ in the headlong rush to make cuts ordered by the Government,” said Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary Fleur Fitzsimons.
The Digital Services workforce has been reduced by nearly 1000 roles by the Coalition Government.
The report, prepared by Health NZ’s Clinical Quality and Safety Committee, assesses the impacts of the of the original November 2024 proposal to cut the Digital Services workforce by 44% from 2400 to 1285. In April 2025 a new Digital Services structure was confirmed with 1460 roles, a reduction of 940 roles, a 39% cut.
It found that the proposed cuts would increase ‘overall clinical and operational risks’ that ‘will materially impact patient care’.
“This is an explosive document that should ring alarm bells across the health sector. It shows that the risks to patient care from cuts to Health NZ’s digital services team were known and expected.
“IT plays a critical role across every aspect of health care, from operating theatres to referrals, clinical test results and payroll, yet the Government was prepared to gamble with patient care, all to save money.”
IT outages are now ever present in our health system – the risks were sharply highlighted in January when clinicians across hospitals in Auckland and Northland were forced to use paper-based systems and whiteboards overnight and again last week when Waikato Hospital staff were unpaid for 24 hours.
“The buck stops with Health Minister Simeon Brown. He must take urgent action to invest in IT upgrades and IT specialists, or the impacts will be tragic. The underfunding of public health has to stop.”
In light of the report the PSA is renewing its call for the Government to:
– Immediately review funding for health digital services and IT infrastructure
– Admit its mistakes in cutting digital services expertise
– Commit to properly resourcing IT system upgrades and maintenance
ENDS
Attached:End user impact of digital change – consequences
Snapshot report findings
The report found that the proposed cuts would increase “overall clinical and operational risks” that “will materially impact patient care”.
It warns that cutting Digital Services staff who keep IT systems running will “hinder the ability to maintain such critical services effectively,” and will have “a larger impact on the [the Government’s] health targets than initially suggested.”
The report found that cutting digital delivery capability “may negatively impact Health NZ’s ability to implement productivity and cost saving initiatives”, needed to meet the health targets.
It warns that with fewer staff and an ageing IT ecosystem, “the risk rating will almost certainly elevate as technical debt becomes unsustainable.”
The report further warns of longer wait times for clinicians looking for IT support. “Delays in responding to issues and requests may lead to impacts on clinical care time or the ability to provide critical information.”
It states that cuts will hit rural and regional hospitals hardest. Smaller sites including Gisborne, New Plymouth, Whanganui, Masterton, Nelson, Greymouth and Rotorua were already identified as under-resourced and geographically vulnerable. “The impact would be felt more keenly owing to the multiple roles conducted by some staff. A combination of single points of failure and inadequate wrap-around support.”
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahiis 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.
A new maths check for Year 2 students will measure progress and ensure young learners get the support they need early on, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.
“Research shows maths understanding in students’ early years is strongly linked to future success in the subject,” Ms Stanford says
“The Year 2 maths check, delivered through our Make it Count maths action plan, is a short assessment that provides teachers a snapshot to understand how learners are progressing in number concepts by the end of Year 2.
“When we came into Government, we knew that half of Year 8 students were a year or more behind in their maths. Helping our young people succeed is a priority for the Government and this is why we are focusing on teaching the basics brilliantly, various assessment initiatives to check progress, and support resources through our $717 million investment into learning support.
“The maths check is now moving through early stages, starting with the trial phase across 100 schools, ensuring our littlest learners will get their needs identified early in their school journeys. We intend this to be available to all schools by the end of the year.
“The check is a short, one-on-one, 15-minute assessment that will provide teachers a snapshot on progress. This will contribute to the new school reporting for parents alongside other progress checks, including the Phonics checks for new entrants.
“The assessment focuses on the key maths concepts and skills for early years, includingnumbers to 120, number facts, operations, and early fractions. This will be carried out through an online tool post-trial and supported by professional learning development for teachers.
“Each school will receive teacher guidance, recording sheets for assessments, student booklets, printed materials, and hand-held maths items supporting testing.
“Our education reforms are raising student achievement so Kiwi kids can reach their full potential. Strong maths skills are essential for success and school and for the opportunities that follow beyond the classroom.
“We will continue to ensure students are learning the fundamentals, getting their learning progress checked at crucial stages, and then getting the support and resources they need to help them succeed,” Ms Stanford says.
