Category: 24/7 News

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Government awards primary sector student scholarships

Source: New Zealand Government

Six tertiary students have been awarded scholarships as part of efforts to support farmers and growers on-the-ground, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay and Associate Agriculture Minister Andrew Hoggard have announced.

“This Government is backing the sector by supporting the next generation of on-farm advisers,” Mr McClay says.

“Our On Farm Support Science Scholarships are an important part of our efforts to ensure the sector can provide specialised on-the-ground expertise and advice for farmers and growers.

“The successful programme has already started producing the next generation of advisers with four of the inaugural 2024 recipients having secured roles.”

The 2026 scholarships went to students enrolled in agricultural science, commerce, or environmental sustainability degrees.

The recipients were Lincoln University students Cameron Brans, Jack Green, Eibhlin Lynch, and Fraser Wilson, Massey University student Ella Hogan, and University of Canterbury student Cecily Holland. Each will receive $5,000 for the year. They have an interest in dairy, sheep, beef, horticulture, and arable production.

“Recipients in the scholarship programme are also mentored by members of the Ministry for Primary Industries On Farm Support team, providing hugely beneficial experience and networking opportunities,” Mr Hoggard says.

“Farm advisers have a vital role to play in providing on-the-ground support to farmers and growers. These students are the future of the advisory sector and will help keep our food and fibre sector thriving.”

Note to editors:  
Biographies of the successful scholarship recipients can be found below.

Name: Cameron Brans
University: Lincoln University 
Degree: Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture)
Home region: Waipawa, Central Hawke’s Bay
Background: Cameron has an interest in sustainable meat and arable production and diversification on-farm. He’s seeking a career in an advisory role that combines scientific and business aspects of agriculture.

Name: Jack Green
University: Lincoln University
Degree: Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons)
Home region: Auckland
Background: Jack has been on an exchange at Cornell University (US) for a semester. His study in 2026 will focus on the growing complexity of data and software on New Zealand dairy farms. He’s seeking a career in agri-tech and farm consultancy.

Name: Fraser Wilson
University: Lincoln University 
Degree: Bachelor of Commerce (Agriculture)
Home region: Gore, Southland
Background: Fraser was raised on a sheep and beef farm and is most interested in the sheep industry. He’s seeking a career in rural banking, agribusiness, and has a long-term goal of farm or agri-business ownership.

Name: Eibhlin Lynch
University: Lincoln University
Degree: Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons)
Home region: Whanganui
Background: Eibhlin was raised on a dairy, sheep and beef farm. She’s been on an exchange at University College Dublin in Ireland to learn how the country is tackling similar environmental challenges and consumer pressures within the agricultural sector. She’s seeking a career in farm advisory combining science and rural services.

Name: Ella Hogan
University: Massey University
Degree: Bachelor of Agricultural Science
Home region: Dannevirke
Background: Ella is passionate about supporting the sheep and beef sector through science-based advisory work. She is interested in connecting research and policy with practical farm management to help farmers build resilient, sustainable businesses.    

Name: Cecily Holland
University: University of Canterbury
Degree: Bachelor of Science, and Bachelor of Social and Environmental Sustainability
Home region: Wellington
Background: Cecily is interested in horticulture, regenerative agriculture, and helping growers adapt to climate change and improve soil health. She’s seeking a career to work as a sustainability consultant or adviser.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/government-awards-primary-sector-student-scholarships/

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WorkSafe launches investigation into Mount Maunganui landslide

Source: Worksafe New Zealand

WorkSafe New Zealand has now officially begun an investigation into work health and safety at Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park in the lead up to the landslide on January 22.

It follows completion of the recovery operation by Police on 1 February.

“We have taken time to be clear about what sits within our remit. Our investigation will focus on work‑related matters prior to the landslide,” says WorkSafe’s central regional manager, Nigel Formosa.

WorkSafe will establish whether there has been a breach of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 by businesses and organisations related to the operation of the holiday park. This will include engaging technical experts and gathering information from a range of sources.

“Our team is focused on understanding the decisions and circumstances that shaped the work environment at the holiday park before the landslide. We’re committed to carrying out a careful, methodical investigation that stays grounded in evidence and the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, for the victims and their whānau. This will take time, but it’s important we complete a thorough investigation,” says Nigel Formosa.

The post-recovery scene of the landslide at Mount Maunganui Beachside Holiday Park.

WorkSafe has already started to engage with Tauranga City Council as the operator of the holiday park. The roles of other parties will also be considered in the coming months.

This health and safety investigation is independent from both the Government inquiry and Tauranga City Council’s external review which have recently been initiated.

WorkSafe investigations can take up to 12 months from the date of an incident. Given the amount of information and technical expertise involved, we expect this investigation to take a full year. 

WorkSafe would like to thank New Zealand Police for their ongoing support. We’ll continue to work closely with them as we carry out our respective roles.

About WorkSafe New Zealand

WorkSafe New Zealand is the country’s primary regulator for health and safety at work. Our role is to influence businesses and workers to meet their responsibilities to ensure work is healthy and safe. We provide guidance, investigate serious incidents, and take enforcement action when necessary. We work with businesses, workers, and industry to reduce work-related harm and ensure all New Zealanders return home safely.

Learn more about how WorkSafe investigates

Media contact details

For more information you can contact our Media Team using our media request form. Alternatively:

Email: media@worksafe.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/worksafe-launches-investigation-into-mount-maunganui-landslide/

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Work begins on new inpatient ward at Nelson Hospital

Source: New Zealand Government

Construction is now underway on a rapid‑build inpatient ward at Nelson Hospital, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“The 28‑bed ward will allow services to be relocated while major redevelopment work progresses at Nelson Hospital, including seismic strengthening of existing buildings,” Mr Brown says.

The project involves around four months of off‑site construction alongside approximately six months of on‑site works.

“Running these stages in parallel accelerates delivery, maintains high quality standards, and limits disruption to daily hospital operations.

“Once operational, the ward will boost inpatient capacity, easing current bed pressures and improving patient flow while Nelson’s permanent inpatient building is completed.”

The Nelson ward is the next step in the rollout of five rapid‑build wards being delivered nationwide through the Government’s accelerated hospital wards programme. With Hawke’s Bay already underway, the programme is focused on quickly increasing inpatient capacity and improving patient flow, supported by a $90 million Budget 2025 allocation that will add 140 new beds across key hospitals next year.

“These rapid‑build wards can be delivered more quickly and at lower cost than traditional builds, enabling us to expand hospital capacity where demand is greatest. Off‑site construction allows faster delivery, better cost control, reduced disruption for hospitals, and earlier benefits for patients and staff.

“Investing in modern, purpose‑built infrastructure is about supporting better care and ensuring patients remain at the centre of every decision. This new ward will strengthen services across Nelson Marlborough and help ensure people can access the care they need, close to home,” Mr Brown says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/work-begins-on-new-inpatient-ward-at-nelson-hospital/

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IEA Declaration strengthens international co-operation on critical minerals

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand has joined international leaders at the 2026 International Energy Agency Ministerial meeting in committing to strengthen global co-operation on critical minerals to strengthen long‑term energy security. 

Energy Minister Simon Watts, who has been at the ministerial meeting in Paris this week, joined 32 member countries in endorsing a Declaration supporting the work of the International Energy Agency (IEA) on critical minerals security. The Declaration recognises that critical minerals are essential to the clean energy transition and that access to them is increasingly important for global supply chains. 

“New Zealand is already an active member of the IEA’s Critical Minerals Security Programme, which focuses on security of supply, market transparency, sustainable and responsible sourcing, reliable data, and innovation,” Mr Watts says.

“Today’s Declaration recognises the strategic importance of these minerals for energy security and calls for timely, focused action—from short‑term preparedness to accelerating strategic projects that diversify refining and processing.” 

New Zealand is well‑positioned to become a credible and reliable contributor to international supply chains as global demand rises and the need for a secure supply of critical minerals grows. Occurrences of minerals such as antimony, lithium, rare earth elements and vanadium—all increasingly vital to global clean‑technology systems—highlight clear opportunities for responsible development and investment.

Resources Minister Shane Jones says these resources need to be recognised as strategic assets for New Zealand’s economic resilience and international partnerships.

“In addition to our mineral endowment, we have innovative technology companies developing ways to extract critical minerals from by‑products of existing operations, low‑impact recovery, and supporting the circular economy,” Mr Jones says. 

“Investing in the responsible development of these minerals means more high‑skilled jobs, greater self‑reliance, stronger national resilience, and opportunities to build new capability, technology, and infrastructure here at home.

“Internationally, there is clear demand for stable, transparent, and responsible suppliers—a role New Zealand is well placed to play given our strong environmental, social and governance standards and trusted relationships with global partners. We stand with our IEA partners in supporting secure, resilient critical‑mineral supply chains—and in using our endowment to be part of the solution.” 

The Declaration directs the IEA Secretariat to expand and strengthen its work in several key areas, including:

Enhancing secure data collection and market monitoring across a broad suite of strategic minerals.
Providing rapid assessments of major market developments and potential supply disruptions.
Supporting members to coordinate responses to export restrictions and other shocks, including through secure information‑sharing.
Assisting countries that choose to establish or expand critical mineral stockpiles.
Organising regular emergency preparedness exercises.
Expanding the Critical Minerals Information Dashboard to help members identify diversification opportunities.
Accelerating innovation in recycling, recovery and substitution technologies.
Deepening collaboration with governments, industry, financial institutions and international partners to improve transparency and mobilise investment.

 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/iea-declaration-strengthens-international-co-operation-on-critical-minerals/

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Update – Cannons Creek assault

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Kāpiti Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins:

Police investigating an assault in Cannons Creek this morning are seeking information from the public to assist our investigation.

Just before 7:40am, Police were called to Dido Place after reports of a firearm being discharged.

One person sustained moderate injuries, they are now stable in hospital.

Residents can expect to see an ongoing Police presence as our investigations progress.

There is not believed to be any risk to the wider public following this incident.

Police would like to hear from anybody who witnessed the incident, as well as those who were in and around Dido Place and the surrounding areas at the time of the incident.

Information can be provided to Police via 105 either over the phone or online, quoting the reference number 260220/7899.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/update-cannons-creek-assault/

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Roadside drug testing continues to boost road safety efforts

Source: New Zealand Police

Two months on after roadside drug driving testing was introduced in Wellington, Police continue to gain valuable operational knowledge and are evaluating processes on this new and important road safety tool.

Since implementing testing in mid-December 2025 to further bolster road safety efforts, more than 300 screening tests have been completed. As of 18 February 2026, seven infringements have been issued.

“Overall, there has been positive and valuable feedback from the public across the Wellington region and from our frontline staff involved with roadside drug driving testing,” says Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing.

“The operational insights gained since December have been beneficial, and will feed into the national rollout which starts in April this year. We will be testing across New Zealand by mid-2026.

“National drug-driving testing will further bolster our policing efforts in making roads safer for all, and deterring drivers who are impaired whether by drugs or alcohol from endangering the lives of others.”

Testing remains ongoing in locations spanning across the broader Wellington region, from Kapiti, Porirua, Wellington City, Hutt Valley, and all the way through to Masterton.

“Drivers cannot use a prescription or medical note at the roadside to stop them from undergoing a test or to dispute a positive saliva screening test result.

“The message is still the same for drivers who drive impaired by drugs – don’t take drugs and drive,” says Superintendent Greally.

“You need to know what you are taking and how it might affect driving and any period of time where it is unsafe to drive.

“If you intend to get behind the wheel after consuming impairing drugs, you will be caught.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/roadside-drug-testing-continues-to-boost-road-safety-efforts/

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Fonterra provides Farmgate Milk Price and earnings update

 Source: Fonterra

  • Fonterra expecting to distribute Mainland Group earnings as special Mainland dividend
  • Fonterra confirms FY26 forecast earnings guidance from continuing operations
  • Fonterra lifts 2025/26 season forecast Farmgate Milk Price midpoint from $9.00 per kgMS to $9.50 per kgMS

Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today lifted its forecast Farmgate Milk Price for the 2025/26 season and narrowed its forecast range.
 
The midpoint has increased from $9.00 per kgMS to $9.50 per kgMS, with the forecast range lifting and narrowing from $8.50-$9.50 per kgMS to $9.20-$9.80 per kgMS.
 
CEO Miles Hurrell says the Co-op has been able to make these changes based on recent improvements in global commodity prices combined with Fonterra’s well contracted sales book.
 
“As we have seen, global dairy prices have been volatile across the season. Following the declines at the end of 2025, prices have lifted in the last four Global Dairy Trade events.
 
“Global milk production remains above seasonal norms, meaning the risk of further volatility in pricing remains. As such, we continue to take a balanced approach with our Farmgate Milk Price forecast.
 
“Our team is focused on enhancing returns for farmer shareholders through the Farmgate Milk Price and earnings, by delivering on our strategy,” says Mr Hurrell.
 
Update on Mainland Group earnings
 
Fonterra is today advising that it intends to pay out 100% of underlying earnings generated by Mainland Group during FY26 while still under Fonterra ownership.
 
The earnings will be distributed through a special Mainland dividend payment to shareholders and unit holders following the completion of the sale to Lactalis.
 
“We are currently finalising our interim accounts and can indicate that we expect the special Mainland dividend to be in the range of 14-18 cents per share, which reflects the operating performance of the Mainland business during the first half of this year driven by ongoing cost management and favourable input commodity prices.
 
“This remains subject to the settlement date of the transaction and the finalisation of our financial statements and audit process.
 
“Fonterra’s FY26 forecast earnings guidance from continuing operations remains unchanged at 45-65 cents per share. It is intended that Fonterra’s dividend policy will be applied to these continuing earnings.  
 
“Our interim dividend from continuing operations will be confirmed when we release our FY26 interim results and an update on the special Mainland dividend will be given at this time,” says Mr Hurrell.
 
As previously indicated, Fonterra expects the transaction to be complete in the first quarter of the 2026 calendar year, subject to separation of the businesses from Fonterra and remaining regulatory approvals being received.
 
About Fonterra  
 
Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities byDoing Good Together.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/fonterra-provides-farmgate-milk-price-and-earnings-update/

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Fire Safety – Central Otago moving to a Prohibited Fire Season

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a Prohibited Fire Season in Central Otago beginning at 8am this Saturday, 21 February, banning all outdoor fires until further notice.
District Manager Craig Gold says the ban may come as a surprise to many because of a slow start to summer and Central Otago not experiencing its usual long hot summer days.
“However, it’s been quite deceptive. Our grasslands are now very dry, and the fire risk has been slowly but steadily increasing – notably in Cromwell, Lauder, Clyde and Butchers Dam.
“We have reached the threshold where we need to declare a Prohibited Fire Season,” Craig Gold says.
“While several large, permitted burns have been successfully carried out over the last couple of months, it’s no longer safe to do so, and we appreciate the support of the farming community, in particular, in recognising that,” he says.
Central Otago is predominantly a grassland area with a lot of fuel for potentially disastrous fires that would be extremely difficult to control.
“We want people to be very vigilant,” Craig Gold says.
“A ban on all outdoor fires will reduce the number of callouts and allow Fire and Emergency crews to manage other fires that may occur.”
Anyone wanting to know if they are in the fire ban area, or just not sure, can input their address into Fire and Emergency’s www.checkitsalright website for specific information on their property and location.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/fire-safety-central-otago-moving-to-a-prohibited-fire-season/

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Charter schools strengthen Crown-Tūhoe relationship

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced Te Kura Awhitu, sponsored by the Tūhoe Charitable Trust, will open by Term 2 2026 as a charter school. 

“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in ways which are more specific to their needs. Today’s announcement demonstrates the innovation enabled by the charter school model,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Tūhoe and the Crown stood apart for generations. Today’s announcement delivers on an important commitment to investigate a charter school for Tūhoe based learning that was made in 2013 as part of the reset of the Crown-Tūhoe relationship.

“Te Kura Awhitu will prepare its students for modern life from traditional roots. Autonomy is important to Tūhoe, and the charter school model enables this. It means Tūhoe can embed their tikanga, language, values, environment, and cultural identity into the curriculum. This marks a significant step forward in the Crown-Tūhoe relationship.  

“The school will offer a full Māori immersion education. The curriculum is based on the philosophy and guiding principles drawn from the Te Urewera environment. 

“The school will have the use of Te Urewera as a classroom, to learn practically about natural sciences, biodiversity, and geography in a way that incorporates Tūhoe traditions and knowledge: learning about environmental change, waterways management and whakapapa. 

“NCEA achievement standards will be used for learning. Natural science learning will be taught against achievement standards in biology, environmental studies or agriculture. A learning module on water restoration, for example, may earn credits in sustainability, science and history,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Charter schools show education can be different if we let communities bring their ideas to the table.

“These schools have more flexibility in return for strictly measured results.

“The charter school equation is: the same funding as state schools, plus greater flexibility plus stricter accountability for results, equals student success.

“There are more ideas in the communities of New Zealand than there are in the Government. That’s why we open ideas to the wider community, then apply strict performance standards to the best ones.

“It will join the charter schools announced in the last year which will open in 2026. This takes the total number of charter schools to 19. We expect more new charter schools to be announced before the end of the year, along with the first state schools to convert.

“I want to thank the Charter School Agency and Authorisation Board for the work they have done getting charters open. They considered 52 applicants for new charter schools. They tell me this round the choices were very difficult.

“This is just the beginning. I hope to see many more new charter schools opening, and state and state-integrated schools converting to become charter schools.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/charter-schools-strengthen-crown-tuhoe-relationship/

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Largest ever reduction in District Court criminal backlog

Source: New Zealand Government

Courts Minister Nicole McKee is welcoming the largest ever reduction in the District Court’s criminal backlog, with a 22 percent drop over the past year – the equivalent of 1,562 fewer cases waiting to be heard.

“The Government’s focus on fixing what matters is working for victims,” says Mrs McKee.

In December 2024 there were 7,133 cases in the backlog. By December 2025, that number had fallen to 5,571.

“This means at least 1562 fewer victims waiting for their day in court to see justice delivered,” says Mrs McKee.

“The turnaround reflects a whole-of-justice-sector effort, including collaboration between the judiciary, court staff, the legal profession, and agencies such as police and corrections.

“I want to thank everyone across the sector who has worked hard to achieve this result. Their focus on timeliness is making a tangible difference for victims and communities.

“The improvement demonstrates the continuing impact of the justice sector’s timeliness initiatives, first introduced in the Auckland metro courts and now reflected in national performance.

“Key improvements include changes led by the judiciary to rostering and scheduling, which have enabled judicial resources to be prioritised to District Court locations with the largest backlogs. We are also seeing better trial preparedness by parties and fewer unnecessary adjournments.

“Additionally, we have strengthened performance reporting and sharpened our focus on timely justice across the criminal jurisdiction.

“There is still more work to do, but this result shows the approach is working. We are focused on practical changes that make a real difference for victims.

“The Family Court backlog has also improved, with a 9 percent decrease in the same period, equivalent to around 850 applications.

“Upcoming legislative reform will further support faster justice, including expanding the powers and number of Community Magistrates, encouraging greater use of remote participation in court, and improving jury selection processes.

“Delivering the largest ever reduction in the criminal backlog is a significant milestone, but the real measure of success is what it means for victims.

“For victims, delays can mean prolonged stress, uncertainty, and trauma. Fixing what matters means reducing that wait and restoring confidence that the system will respond promptly when harm is done.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/largest-ever-reduction-in-district-court-criminal-backlog/

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South Korea: Life sentence for Ex-President Yoon a significant step towards accountability

Source: Amnesty Internatonal

Responding to today’s guilty verdict and life sentence for former South Korean President Yoon for the imposition of martial law in December 2024, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director Sarah Brooks said:

“Today’s verdict and sentence is an important step towards accountability which demonstrates that no one is above the law in South Korea, including a former president.

“This ruling holds Yoon accountable for the unlawful imposition of martial law in December 2024, which lacked proper legal justification under both domestic and international law and placed fundamental rights at risk.

“South Korea’s independent courts and citizen resistance have shown how the rule of law and strong institutional checks can effectively counter authoritarian practices. This decision must now be followed by comprehensive measures to ensure such violations never happen again.”

Background

Seoul Central District Court today handed down a life sentence to former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol after finding him guilty of leading an insurrection over his declaration of martial law. Yoon is expected to appeal. The ruling follows prosecutors’ call for the death penalty in this case in January 2026. This case is among eight criminal trials with Yoon as the defendant.

On 3 December 2024, former President Yoon declared martial law in a late-night address broadcast live on TV. The move was met with mass protests, and lawmakers forced their way into the National Assembly to vote to lift the martial law order within hours. Yoon was subsequently impeached and removed from office in a separate case by the Constitutional Court.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/south-korea-life-sentence-for-ex-president-yoon-a-significant-step-towards-accountability/

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Arrests made, Northcote incident

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Superintendent Tony Hill, Canterbury District Commander:

Three men have been arrested in relation to the serious incident at a Hoani Street, Northcote property on Wednesday night that left four people injured.

The men, aged 19, 31 and 40, have been charged with aggravated wounding and aggravated robbery.

Two are due to appear in the Christchurch District Court today, and the 40-year-old is due to appear in Dunedin.

Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident.

This was a coordinated effort focused on one clear outcome: holding those responsible to account and protecting our community.

We will not tolerate this type of offending. If you choose to commit serious violence, we will act swiftly.

Incidents like this understandably concern people. Please be reassured this was a contained incident, and there is no ongoing risk.

Residents can expect to see Police at the Hoani Street address again today as our scene examination continues.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/arrests-made-northcote-incident/

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Back off the tools – man arrested in Hamilton

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Sergeant Mike Palmer, Waikato Police:

A man’s been arrested in Hamilton in relation to a series of burglaries of tools worth more than $40,000.

The 36-year-old is due in Hamilton District Court today on three charges of burglary. Additional charges are being considered.

The burglaries, targeting tools in the industrial Te Rapa area of Hamilton, were reported on 2, 4, and 13 February.

The arrest follows investigation by the Waikato Tactical Crime Unit. The tools were valued at more than $44,000. Some of the tools were on-sold, and Police are working to recover them so we can get them back to their rightful owner.

Police recommend businesses consider crime prevention methods to reduce the risk of burglary.

Quality CCTV, alarm systems, engraving tools and accurately recording serial numbers helps Police in investigating burglaries in the unfortunate event they occur.

Tools can be expensive and hard to replace. To reunite stolen tools with their rightful owner we need to identify unique features, so we encourage businesses and tradies to take the time engraving their tools and recording serial numbers.

If you are aware of, or come across, tools that may have been stolen please let Police know via our 105 service.  Alternatively, information can be passed anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or https://crimestoppers-nz.org/

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/back-off-the-tools-man-arrested-in-hamilton/

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Update: Further appeal for information following water related death, Napier

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Kate Hyde:

Napier Police investigating the water-related death of a five-year-old boy in Westshore, Napier, are asking for anyone who saw the boy on Thursday 5 February.

The boy went missing sometime between the hours of 6 and 8.30pm on the night of Thursday 5 February. He was sadly located deceased in the water, by emergency services, at 1.30am on Friday 6 February.

Police would like to thank those who have come forward with information and CCTV so far but are re-appealing for anyone who saw an unattended child on that Thursday night.

We are particularly seeking a group of four people, who were riding bikes and walking, near the corner of Fenwick Street and Fergusson Avenue at approximately 7.30pm.

If this was you, or if you have any information that could assist us in our investigation, please contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, or call 105, and use the reference number 260206/9567.

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/2026/02/20/update-further-appeal-for-information-following-water-related-death-napier/

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Strategic hiring, rising pay pressures and a borderless workforce

Source: Robert Walters

Robert Walters identifies New Zealand’s key labour and salary trends for 2026

Auckland, New Zealand, 19th Feb 2026 - 2026 will be a year of strategic hiring, increased pressure on salaries, and rising workforce mobility across New Zealand, according to new research from global talent solutions partner Robert Walters. 

The findings come from its latest Salary Guide, which surveyed over 2,300 white-collar New Zealand professionals across 12 different industries.  

Shay Peters, CEO, Robert Walters Australia & New Zealand: ”The New Zealand labour market is showing a renewed sense of optimism, but caution remains. Businesses are hiring again, skills shortages persist, and employees are carefully weighing where they work, what they earn, and whether to relocate. This combination is reshaping the workforce: organisations face pressure to attract and retain talent, address capability gaps, and balance pay with cost-of-living concerns, while employees are increasingly strategic about career moves and mobility. How companies respond now will have a direct impact on productivity, growth, and their ability to secure and retain the talent they need for success in the future.” 

Key labour market trends 

Hiring rebounds, but jobseekers remain cautious after 2025 turmoil

Market confidence is gradual but strengthening, with 76% of New Zealand businesses planning to hire in 2026, up from 66% in 2025. 

Hiring demand varies regionally. Canterbury leads hiring intent at 78%, followed by Auckland (75%) and Wellington (72%). 

Despite this uplift in business confidence, employee mobility has cooled. 53% of New Zealand professionals are considering a role change this year, down from 63% in 2025, suggesting a more cautious workforce. 

Shay comments: ”Hiring intent has increased since last year, signalling that businesses are ready to move forward. However, employees are taking a more considered approach. From conversations we’ve been having with job seekers, we know the unstable condition of the 2025 labour market is making people concerned about job prospects in 2026. Economic uncertainty over the past year has made many professionals very risk-aware. The labour market is gradually rebalancing, rather than surging.” 

Rising relocation trends are creating a borderless workforce

Mobility remains a defining feature of the New Zealand workforce. 58% of professionals are open to relocating for work. 

Interest varies regionally. In Auckland, 64% would consider relocating, compared with 53% in Wellington and 51% in Canterbury. 

Australia is the most attractive destination, with 65% naming it as their top choice. Domestically, 54% would consider relocating within New Zealand. Internationally, 23% would consider moving to the UK and 21% to Europe. 

The primary drivers of relocation are higher salaries (71%), better job opportunities (65%), lifestyle changes (53%), and cost of living (38%). 

Interest in Australians relocating to New Zealand has increased this year to 17% (up from 2% in 2025). 

Shay comments: ”The strength of interest in Australia underscores how interconnected the two labour markets have become. For many professionals, relocation is no longer aspirational, it is a strategic financial and career decision. 

New Zealand employers must recognise that they are competing not just locally, but internationally. Organisations that create compelling career pathways, competitive remuneration and flexible work models will be better positioned to retain talent in an increasingly borderless market.” 

Salary growth remains modest as cost-of-living pressures persist

In 2025, 57% of New Zealand professionals received a pay rise, although most increases fell within the modest 2.5%-5% range, limiting their real impact. 

67% of New Zealand businesses intend to offer salary increases in 2026, while 56% of professionals expect one. 

42% of employees feel underpaid, but 83% of employers believe salaries are keeping pace with the cost of living, highlighting a perception gap. 

Salary dissatisfaction varies regionally. In Canterbury, 46% of professionals do not believe their salary matches the cost of living. In Auckland this stands at 42%, and in Wellington 39%. 

Shay comments: ”As businesses come out of last year’s restructures, organisations have an opportunity to reassess remuneration. Where salary increases are not feasible, employers must focus on career progression, flexibility, and skills development. It’s no secret the movement of New Zealand talent to Australia is well underway. Dissatisfaction around pay is a high retention risk, especially as overseas markets actively target New Zealand talent.” 

Skills shortages squeeze productivity across key sectors

Skills shortages remain critical, with 81% of New Zealand employers experiencing gaps over the past year. 

Regional pressure varies, with 52% of Auckland employers reporting shortages, followed by Wellington (49%) and Canterbury (39%). 

The most acute gaps are in industry-specific expertise (52%), digital and technology capability (37%), and leadership skills (31%) - these areas closely linked to productivity and organisational performance. 

Hiring challenges are compounded by unsuitable applicants (62%) and a lack of formal qualifications (53%). 

 Shay comments: ”Skills shortages are a severe productivity issue. When capability gaps persist, delivery slows and growth opportunities are missed. 

New Zealand organisations must take a long-term view, investing in leadership development, digital capability, and structured workforce planning. Skills gaps directly impact productivity and growth, and with more talent continuing to move to Australia, this challenge will intensify unless decisive action is taken now. Waiting for the market to correct itself is no longer a viable strategy in a competitive global talent landscape.” 

AI adoption accelerates, but concerns remain

AI integration is gaining momentum. 86% of New Zealand businesses are actively promoting AI, and 70% of employers say AI skills are important. 

Adoption at employee level is already high, with 69% using AI in their roles. However, 51% express concern about AI’s future impact on their job.

Shay comments: ”New Zealand businesses are embracing AI at pace, but adoption must be matched with transparency and training. The fact that over half of employees are concerned about AI’s future impact highlights the importance of clear communication and structured upskilling. 

At the speed AI is developing, it’s critical that soft skills like leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving are not lost but actively encouraged alongside new technology. 

Done right, AI can increase efficiency, boost productivity, and complement human talent, supporting the goals outlined in New Zealand’s 2025 AI Strategy for a productive, future-ready workforce.” 

About the Salary Guide: The Robert Walters 2026 Salary Guide provides a comprehensive overview of hiring intentions, salary trends, skills shortages, and workforce mobility across New Zealand. With insights from over 2,300 respondents, the guide highlights how businesses and employees are navigating an evolving labour market shaped by cost-of-living pressures, technological adoption, and mobility opportunities.

About Robert Walters:  

With more than 3,100 people in 30 countries, Robert Walters delivers recruitment consultancy, staffing, recruitment process outsourcing and managed services across the globe. From traditional recruitment and staffing to end-to-end talent management, our consultants are experts at matching highly skilled people to permanent, contract and interim roles across all professional disciplines. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/19/strategic-hiring-rising-pay-pressures-and-a-borderless-workforce/

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Health – The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) recognises that a 4.4% increase in private health insurance premiums will place additional pressure on Australian families

Source: Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS)

Australians are paying more for cover. But the funding flowing to patient care is not keeping pace with the real cost of delivering surgery.

Over the past three years, more than 400,000 Australians have downgraded from top-tier (“gold”) hospital cover to lower levels of insurance. Many policies now come with exclusions, meaning patients discover they are not fully covered when they need treatment.

“Bronze”, “silver” and “gold” labels hide huge differences in exclusions, excesses and clinical coverage, meaning two people on the same tier can face wildly different bills. Australians need real transparency and standardisation so consumers can compare value and know what they’re actually paying for before they need surgery.

At the same time, insurers are returning a smaller share of premiums directly to care than in previous years. Industry data shows benefits paid as a proportion of premiums are sitting in the mid-80% range – down from around 88% historically.

RACS welcomes legislation introduced this week that would ban “product phoenixing” – a practice used by some private health insurers to rebrand or replace policies in ways that drive up premiums without delivering additional value to consumers. But wider reform is needed.

RACS believes Australians deserve stronger guarantees that the vast majority of every premium dollar goes to patient care.

Surgeons are also dealing with a system where:

Medicare rebates have not kept pace with inflation for decades.
private health insurers pay different benefit amounts for the same procedure, sometimes differing by hundreds of dollars. Surgeons are forced to work across dozens of varying fee schedules to reduce patient gaps.
no-gap payments have failed to keep up with rising healthcare costs for decades.

When Medicare and private insurance benefits fall behind the real cost of operating theatres, staff, equipment and compliance, the shortfall does not vanish. It is either absorbed by hospitals and doctors or passed on to patients. This funding gap is the key driver behind rising out-of-pocket costs. RACS recognises the need to improve the affordability of specialist care. At the same time, we understand many surgeons are already prioritising their patients’ needs at personal financial cost and are struggling to keep up.

Fee reform is a two-way street

If government expects fee restraint, then Medicare must be properly indexed and insurers must ensure a higher proportion of premiums go directly to clinical care. RACS supports a minimum 90% payout ratio so Australians can be confident their premiums are funding treatment, not overhead.

Transparency measures such as the Australian Government’s mandatory Medical Costs Finder system can help patients understand fees. But transparency alone will not fix an underfunded system.

Private healthcare plays a critical role in keeping pressure off the public hospital system. If private surgery becomes financially unsustainable, waiting lists in the public sector will inevitably grow.

Australia delivers strong surgical outcomes by international standards. That system has been built on high standards and a functioning public–private balance. Rising premiums must translate into real value for patients – not reduced coverage and higher out-of-pocket costs.

RACS stands ready to work with government and insurers to modernise Medicare, improve consistency in insurer payments, and ensure patients are not left carrying the burden of a funding model that no longer reflects the real cost of safe surgical care.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/19/health-the-royal-australasian-college-of-surgeons-racs-recognises-that-a-4-4-increase-in-private-health-insurance-premiums-will-place-additional-pressure-on-australian-families/

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Environment – Seabed mining company TTR gives up on the Fast Track process – Greenpeace

Source: Greenpeace

Trans-Tasman Resources (TTR) have today issued their formal response to the Fast Track Expert Panel’s draft decision, in it, they say they will not propose any changes to conditions. There is now nothing stopping the panel from making a final decision to decline consent.
TTR go on to say they reject the “assumptions and conclusions” of the panel that the evidence TTR provided around potential environmental impacts were “uncertain, incomplete or inadequate”. 
Greenpeace Aotearoa seabed mining campaigner Juressa Lee says:
“It’s clear that TTR knows their project fails to meet even the pro-industry Fast Track Act process and are fast running out of options to get their doomed project across the line. TTR even suggests the panel misunderstands the application, an arrogant dismissal of the panel, the months they have dedicated to careful deliberation, and the wealth of expertise that has been provided to ensure the decision is well-informed.”In its draft decision released earlier this month, the expert panel ruled that seabed mining in Taranaki would harm threatened species like pygmy blue whales and penguins, and could not be safely managed.
“This is, in part, the result of a united position from all eight iwi of Taranaki, as well as expert witnesses who submitted on behalf of Greenpeace and Kiwis Against Seabed Mining (KASM),” says Lee. 
“It’s also what mana whenua, communities and environmental groups have been saying for decades: Seabed mining will cause irreversible harm to the moana and there is no place for this industry in Aotearoa.
“It’s time political leaders took bold action and stopped seabed mining once and for all by banning it in Aotearoa,” Lee continues.
The panel declined TTR’s proposal in February, finding seabed mining would harm threatened species like pygmy blue whales and penguins, and could not be safely managed. It will make its final decision before 18 March.
“It’s clear TTR is out of ideas. They have been defeated time and time again all the way up to the Supreme Court. The evidence is clear. There is no place for seabed mining in Aotearoa.
“The resistance to seabed mining is strong and unyielding. Iwi, environmentalists, community groups, and ocean protectors have been fighting for decades and any attempt to start seabed mining in Aotearoa will be met with further resistance.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/19/environment-seabed-mining-company-ttr-gives-up-on-the-fast-track-process-greenpeace/

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Defence News – NZDF air and maritime assets combine for successful search and rescue operation south of Tonga

Source: New Zealand Defence Force

The New Zealand Defence Force has combined its maritime and air assets to conduct a search and rescue operation for two men drifting in a wooden boat 105 nautical miles south of Tonga.

The two men were located by a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) P-8A Poseidon yesterday morning and were then recovered on board the Royal New Zealand Navy’s HMNZS Canterbury last night.

The P-8A had been en route to conduct maritime surveillance operations for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing in the South West Pacific when it was diverted to conduct the search for the missing boat.

Maritime New Zealand’s Rescue Coordination Centre requested the aircraft crew search for the boat after it was reported overdue.

The crew on board the 11.5-metre wooden boat named Mysterious Wonder were reported to have left Tongatapu, Tonga on 8 February. Authorities were notified on Tuesday that the vessel was missing.

The P-8A crew flew to Fiji to base overnight before starting the search Wednesday morning. They found the boat at 10.15am. The call then went out to HMNZS Canterbury to rescue the men and bring them to safety.

Commander Wayne Andrew, the Commanding Officer of HMNZS Canterbury, said the ship launched a sea boat, rescuing the two men late yesterday evening.

“This was an excellent combined effort to locate and rescue the crew members,” he said.

“The P-8A crew did a fantastic job locating the vessel in a large search area about 105 nautical miles south of Tonga. We were fortunate to be in a position to be able to assist the two men.”

HMNZS Canterbury recently completed a successful trip to Tokelau supporting Governor-General of New Zealand Dame Cindy Kiro to mark the centenary of New Zealand administration of Tokelau. The ship was en route to the Kermadec Islands before it turned around to assist with the rescue.

The two men were flown to Tonga this morning on a RNZAF NH90 helicopter embarked on HMNZS Canterbury.

The ship will today resume passage to Raoul Island, to assist MetService and Earth Sciences New Zealand personnel to carry out upgrade and maintenance tasks of critical weather, tsunami and volcano monitoring equipment and facilities.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/19/defence-news-nzdf-air-and-maritime-assets-combine-for-successful-search-and-rescue-operation-south-of-tonga/

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Greenpeace – Govt announces critical mineral ‘slush fund’ as TTR flees the fast track

Source: Greenpeace

Today, as seabed miners Trans Tasman Resources (TTR) withdrew from their failing Fast Track bid, the NZ government has announced a $80 million dollar ‘critical minerals slush fund.’ Greenpeace is questioning if this signals an invitation for TTR to have another bite at the cherry.
It comes just weeks after it was revealed the NZ government has been in backroom talks with the US Trump administration over a minerals deal, which includes vanadium, found at TTR’s desired mining site off Taranaki.
“They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result,” says Greenpeace Aotearoa’s Juressa Lee.
“The courts have said no, iwi have said no, thousands of New Zealanders have said no, and now even the Government’s own Fast-Track panel has declined it. Yet here is Shane Jones, doubling down with $80 million of taxpayer money to try to breathe this destructive, failed industry back to life.”
In 2024, TTR withdrew from the EPA process right before new Fast Track legislation was announced by the government, allowing them to apply.
“In the same moment that TTR realises their Fast Track dreams are over, we’ve got the NZ government desperately finding a way to make their project a reality,” says Lee.
“We have to ask: is TTR’s withdrawal today a genuine exit, or just a tactical retreat knowing the government is orchestrating a 6th bite at the cherry?
“Is it planning to re-apply to the now amended and “even more favourable” Fast-Track, hoping the Government will appoint a more obedient panel next time, while the government uses its new slush fund to pave their way with infrastructure?
“It seems as though the Government is actively coaching mining companies on how to bypass the very processes that are meant to vet them.””If this is the case, we certainly hope TTR submits a new application rather than the same one it has flogged for a decade and we’ve beaten down at every step of the way.”
On Thursday, TTR released news that they had officially withdrawn from the Fast Track process, after they were given a draft rejection decision earlier in February. The Panel ruled that seabed mining in Taranaki could harm threatened species like pygmy blue whales and penguins, and could not be safely managed, and that economic benefits don’t outweigh the risks.
On the same day, Shane Jones and Winston Peters announced $80 million dollars earmarked for critical minerals projects in the Regional Infrastructure Fund.
“By funneling $80 million into these projects, Shane Jones and Christopher Luxon are laying the red carpet for overseas mining giants to treat New Zealand as a low-standard extraction zone that services US interests,” says Lee.
“This $80 million belongs to the people of Aotearoa for real infrastructure, like renewable energy, not as a consolation prize for mining companies who can’t get their projects past a basic environmental assessment.”
“So who are these mining projects for? It sounds as though they are designed to pander to the wants of the Trump administration, and are not in the best interests of New Zealanders.”
“Iwi, environmentalists, community groups, and ocean protectors have been fighting for decades. Any attempt to start seabed mining in Aotearoa – whatever avenues or work around mining companies try to use – they will face strong resistance.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/19/greenpeace-govt-announces-critical-mineral-slush-fund-as-ttr-flees-the-fast-track/

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UKRAINE: Children anxious, fearful after 4000 hours of air raid alarms in four years of war

Source: Save the Children

Children in Ukraine have endured an average of about 4,000 hours of air raid alarms – equivalent to over 5.5 months of constant alerts – since the start of full-scale war in February 2022, with constant fear of attacks taking a severe toll on their mental health, Save the Children said. [1]
Parents and Save the Children staff report that children are anxious and worried, while some children have developed gastrointestinal disorders due to stress. The last quarter of 2025 saw an uptick in the duration of alarms, coinciding with an intensification of the conflict in recent months, further compounding psychological pressure on children and families already living under prolonged strain.
Children in the frontline areas and in the Kyiv region have been hardest hit in the past four years, facing 7,000 hours of air raid alerts – equivalent to around 9.5 months, according to analysis of official alert data on sirens.[2] This means some children have spent nearly a full year of their lives under the sound of sirens.
Air raid alerts, warning civilians of a missile strike or shelling threats, can sound multiple times a day. When a siren sounds, children and families must decide whether to take cover in basements, cellars or subway stations with little or no access to water, electricity or heating. Many families, however, exhausted by years of alerts, are increasingly choosing the less safe option of sheltering in hallways or bathrooms away from the building’s exterior, illustrating the deep fatigue civilians face after years of constant danger.
Sirens, which can last from a few minutes to several hours or longer, frequently keep children home from school, and an estimated 50% of alerts [3] happen in late evening or at night, robbing many children of consistent sleep and a sense of safety.
Anastasiia, 8-, fled with her family from their hometown in Zaporizhzhia region to Zaporizhzhia city when full-scale war broke out. Like many children in frontline areas, Anastasiia- has learned to live with nights regularly interrupted by explosions from drones and missile attacks. When the air raid alert sounds at night, the family goes to the corridor where the children sleep on mattresses until it becomes quiet again – a routine that has become disturbingly normal for many families.
“It is constant emotional strain. Adults feel it, but children feel it more deeply. The nervous system is exhausted,” said Anastasiia’s mother, Veronika-. “When children hear an explosion, they worry, they get nervous.”
Save the Children, together with local partner organisation Posmishka UA, operates a Child Friendly Space where children can take part in educational activities, play and receive psychosocial support, offering rare moments of stability, learning and emotional relief.
Yana-, who works at the Child Friendly Space, said there are children there who have developed gastrointestinal disorders and children who are frequently ill.
“All this, of course, is psychosomatic, due to the fact that the child is constantly in this nervous state and their body is trying to protect them as best as it can,” she said.
Four years of war in Ukraine has made living in this state of constant distress a “new norm” for many children. Research by Save the Children in 2024 found that over four in 10 children were suffering from psychosocial distress, with some children developing speech defects and uncontrollable twitching, while others have terrible nightmares and even scream in their sleep. [4] A study in 2025 found that four out of five people surveyed experienced high levels of stress, predominantly due to the war [5], underscoring the nationwide mental health crisis affecting both children and adults.
Sonia Khush, Country Director for Save the Children in Ukraine, said:
“Four years of full-scale war in Ukraine have shattered children’s lives and ripped away their childhoods as they’ve been forced from their homes and schools, lost loved ones and lived in fear as air raid alerts, drones and explosions consume the world around them.
“Children in Ukraine, especially those who live near the frontline, are under constant stress because of air raid sirens both day and night. For some children, the only world they have known is one filled with air raid alerts that disrupt their sleep, interrupt their learning, stop their play, and signal constant, life-threatening danger day after day.
“Despite playing no part in the war, children are paying the heaviest price, including damage to their psychological wellbeing. All parties to the conflict must immediately cease attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including homes, schools and hospitals, and end grave violations against children.
“We also need to ensure support for children’s recovery and mental health to address many of the unseen impacts of war that, if not addressed, can leave wounds that last well into adulthood. Sustained international funding is critical to ensure children affected by the war receive the protection, care and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives, and to prevent a generation from carrying the invisible scars of conflict for life.”
Save the Children has been working in Ukraine since 2014. Since 24 February 2022, the children’s rights agency has dramatically scaled up its operations, supporting children and their families with access to essential supplies and services. Save the Children has reached over 4.7 million people – including around 1.9 million children – in Ukraine in the last four years, delivering lifesaving aid, education, protection and mental health support
Notes
[1] Data on the duration of air raid alerts taken from https://air-alarms.in.ua/en, a source which aggregates alarm alerts, from official sources. Data in this press release includes official alerts only. Since the duration and frequency of alerts differ greatly by area, we used a weighted average taking into account latest populations estimates from the UN to calculate an average alert time since February 2022 across the 23 regions and Kyiv city for which alert data is available from https://air-alarms.in.ua/en,
[2] Calculation is a weighted average based on population for the following regions: Donetsk, Kharkiv, Sumy, Dniprov, Zaporizka, Kherson, Odessa, Chernihiv, Mykolaiv and Kyiv region.
[3] Based on analysis of alerts with a duration that fell between 9pm and 7am from https://air-alarms.in.ua/en, provided to Save the Children on 29 January 2026.
[5] 2025 study on mental health by the All-Ukrainian mental health program “How are you?”. Available here (in Ukrainian) https://drive.google.com/file/d/1t0wPXZTPEJQUSi5ftDcNf8oQUX-bIQdl/view. 78% of people suffering from stress directly linked this to the war.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/19/ukraine-children-anxious-fearful-after-4000-hours-of-air-raid-alarms-in-four-years-of-war/