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Takitimu North Link Stage 2 Fast-tracked

Source: New Zealand Government

A major transport upgrade for the Western Bay of Plenty has received Fast-track approval, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop says. 

NZTA lodged its application in August 2025 to build about 7.7 kilometres of new highway in the Bay of Plenty.  

“Approval has taken just five months following the commencement of the expert panel,” says Mr Bishop.

“The Government is committed to building a long-term pipeline of transport infrastructure investments to redress New Zealand’s infrastructure deficit and build jobs and growth for Kiwis.

“The Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 Road of National Significance will be a four lane, median-divided highway between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, improving safety and reliability on one of the region’s busiest routes. 

“Takitimu North Link Stage 1 is now four years into construction, with major structures largely complete. All bridge construction is scheduled to finish in 2026, and the project is expected to be fully completed in 2028.

“The new road will provide a safer and more reliable trip between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, supporting regional growth and productivity. It will improve travel times for all transport modes and enhanced reliability and safety for commuters.

“NZTA estimates the project could deliver around $610 million in economic output for the Bay of Plenty region and provide more than 4,800 jobs over the development period.

“It’s part of the Government’s work to ensure New Zealand has a credible pipeline of high value infrastructure projects extending into the future, and that they’re ready to go as funding becomes available.

“This is the 14th project approved through the Fast-track process and the first roading project.” 

Notes to editors:

For more information about the project: Takitimu North Link – Stage 2

Fast-track by the numbers:

  • 14 projects approved by expert panels.
  • 20 projects with expert panels appointed.
  • 149 projects are listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act, meaning they can apply for Fast-track approval.
  • 46 projects currently progressing through the Fast-track process.
  • 34 projects have been referred to Fast-track by the Minister for Infrastructure.
  • On average, it has taken 128 working days for decisions on substantive applications from when officials determine an application is complete and in-scope.

Fast-track projects approved by expert panels:

  • Arataki [Housing/Land]
  • Homestead Bay [Housing/Land]
  • Sunfield [Housing/Land]
  • Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]
  • Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2 [Housing/Land]
  • Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block [Mining/Quarrying]
  • Green Steel [Infrastructure]
  • Kings Quarry Expansion – Stages 2 and 3 [Mining/Quarrying]
  • Maitahi Village [Housing/Land]
  • Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing/Land]
  • Rangitoopuni [Housing/Land]  
  • Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable energy]
  • Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 [Infrastructure]
  • Waihi North [Mining/Quarrying]

 

Expert panels have been appointed for:

  • Ashbourne
  • Ayrburn Screen Hub
  • Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project
  • Delmore
  • Haldon Solar Farm
  • Hananui Aquaculture Project
  • Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme
  • Lake Pūkaki Hydro Storage and Dam Resilience Works
  • Mahinerangi Wind Farm
  • Pound Road Industrial Development
  • Ryans Road Industrial Development
  • Southland Wind Farm Project
  • State Highway 1 North Canterbury – Woodend Bypass Project (Belfast to Pegasus)
  • Stella Passage Development (Port of Tauranga)
  • The Downtown Carpark Site Development
  • The Point Mission Bay
  • The Point Solar Farm
  • Waitaha Hydro
  • Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project
  • Wellington International Airport Southern Seawall Renewal

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/takitimu-north-link-stage-2-fast-tracked/

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Survey results show continued high levels of trust and confidence in Police

Source: New Zealand Police

New Zealand Police is pleased to see levels of trust and confidence remain stable at 69% after a significant increase in 2024. Improvements in several indicators show that New Zealanders have high confidence in effectiveness of Police in the latest component of the annual Ministry of Justice New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey (NZCVS).

The Police Module, which measures the public’s perceptions, experiences, and views about New Zealand Police, saw public trust and confidence in Police remain at 69% between October 2024 and October 2025.

Assistant Commissioner Jeanette Park says maintaining trust and confidence within our communities is a constant priority for New Zealand Police, and whilst it is encouraging to see several improvements, there is always more work to be done.

Key findings from the Police Module saw: 

  • Almost three quarters (74%) of New Zealanders agree that Police deal effectively with serious crime. This was a significant increase from 70% in 2024. The proportion of those who disagreed also decreased from 11% to 9%.
  • The proportion of New Zealanders who agree that Police concentrate efforts to deal with harmful crimes significantly increased from 70% in 2024 to 73% in 2025.
  • The proportion of New Zealanders who agree that Police provide effective support for emergency management significantly increased from 77% to 81% and the proportion of those who disagreed decreased from 7% to 4%.
  • Three quarters (75%) of New Zealanders agreed that Police deal effectively with road safety. This was a significant increase from 72% in 2024.
  • Disagreement that Police have a suitable presence in the community significantly decrease from 23% of New Zealanders in 2024 to 20% in 2025.
  • Disagreement that Police staff reflect the diversity of all people in New Zealand significantly decrease from 9% of New Zealanders in 2024 to 7% in 2025.
  • Disagreement that the work Police do with schools, business, families and communities prevents more crime significantly decrease from 16% of New Zealanders in 2024 to 13% in 2025.

“These numbers are the direct result of the hard work our staff put in everyday when dealing with victims of crime,” Assistant Commissioner Park says.

“They are dedicated in serving our communities through timely and responsive policing, improving public safety by being visible and accessible and committed to strengthening trust and confidence through connection with communities.

“While these results are encouraging, there is always more work to do.  We would like to see these numbers increase as we want to have the trust and confidence of all New Zealanders.

“This survey has also given us sufficient data to assess areas where we need to continue to improve.

“Our responsiveness to community needs is one area for consideration.  This measure has remained static since the introduction of the Police Module, and it is something we would want to see improving over time.

“Police continue to work hard in the areas that ensure safety and responsiveness and with the highest number of FTE constables in history at 10,497 we aim to make a difference in deterring crime, enforcing the law and increasing feelings of public safety.”

About the NZCVS 

The NZCVS was introduced in 2018 and aims to survey around 8000 New Zealanders. The total number of responses for this round was 8008. 

The report is based on data collected between October 2024 and October 2025. The Police Module was introduced in 2021 and provides a credible source of information that can shape and direct future decisions within New Zealand Police, with the intention of building greater trust and confidence in Police by communities.

Find out more here about the wider Ministry of Justice NZCVS findings MoJ overall findings and a helpful infographic of the Police Module here. 

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/survey-results-show-continued-high-levels-of-trust-and-confidence-in-police-2/

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Live: Fuel stations run out again, Luxon warns NZ preparing for ‘prolonged’ Iran conflict

Source: Radio New Zealand

Petrol stations across the country are seeing a surge of drivers filling up as petrol prices rises amid fears of rapidly jumping prices and potential shortages.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis have been addressing the latest on the fuel crisis, warning that NZ is now preparing for a possible ‘prolonged’ Iran conflict.

“Hope is not a plan,” Luxon said.

It comes in the wake of a global rise in oil prices following the US-Israel war on Iran. Iran’s response has included the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key transportation channel for Middle Eastern energy exports.

Strikes overnight hit Iran’s part of the world’s largest gas field. Iran has vowed revenge, listing energy targets in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar as potential targets.

The Automobile Association here has warned further price hikes are likely.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis face questions on the fuel crisis. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

There have been reports of service stations running out of fuel as motorists rush to fill up.

New Zealand has several weeks’ supply in storage or on the way, the government has said.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/live-fuel-stations-run-out-again-luxon-warns-nz-preparing-for-prolonged-iran-conflict/

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New survey shows drop in crime

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Justice

Headline: New survey shows drop in crime

Fewer people are becoming victims of crime in New Zealand, according to new data published today.

The latest results from the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey (NZCVS) show that in the eight years to 2025, the proportion of victims of crime has dropped from 30% in 2018 to 28% in 2025.

The number of victims in 2025 equates to 1.2 million adults.

“This is the lowest level of people experiencing crime since the NZCVS began in 2018. The result was driven by drops in both personal and household offences,” says Ministry of Justice General Manager Sector Insights, Rebecca Parish.

For the first time since the NZCVS began, the proportion of adults who were victims of interpersonal violence fell significantly below 2018 levels – five percent in 2025 compared to seven percent in 2018.

Burglary was experienced by nine percent of households (184,000) – also a significantly lower rate than in 2018 (12 percent or 210,000 households).

Other household offences, such as trespass and vehicle-related offences, were also at their lowest levels since the survey began.

The proportion of adults who were victims of fraud and cybercrime has been on a downward trend since peaking in 2022, though it remains significantly higher at 10 percent (440,000) in 2025 compared to eight percent in 2018.

The proportion of adults who were victims of violent offences was significantly lower in 2025 (three percent) than in both 2024 and 2018 (four percent). 

“While these results are positive, we are also mindful that behind each statistic is a real person, some of whom have experienced crime and victimisation, and assisted us by providing valuable insights through their responses,” Ms Parish says.

Today’s results are for the whole of the NZCVS, while data released in February focused on violent crime. This showed there were 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime in the year to October 2025 than two years previously.

Full New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey results can be found here.

About the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey

  • The New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey (NZCVS) is a nationwide, annual, face to face, sample survey that interviews about 8,000 people every year.
  • This report is based on data collected between October 2024 and October 2025.
  • 8,008 people shared their experiences of crime and victimisation.
  • The NZCVS helps assess the true rate of crime in New Zealand by asking participants about both reported and unreported experiences of crime.
  • A Key Stories report will be published in May and provide further analysis and context for some of the trends found in this report.

High resolution infographics from the NZCVS are available on request.

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MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/new-survey-shows-drop-in-crime/

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Charter school students attended more than state students in 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Education Minister David Seymour says baseline attendance data for charter schools shows they’re off to good start, but there is more work to be done. 

“When children can learn and grow in ways more specific to their needs, they attend school more,” Mr Seymour says. 

In 2025 the average regular attendance rate for charter schools was 59.7 per cent. For state schools it was 58 per cent. A student regularly attends when they are in class for 90 per cent of the term. 

“This is a good result for the seven charter schools which opened last year,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Three of the charter schools which opened last year work specifically with young people who have long‑standing challenges with education. This includes many students who previously attended school very rarely but are now at school significantly more.

“The regular attendance rate across the other four schools was 66.7 per cent. If it weren’t for illness making attendance in Term 4 difficult for students at one of these schools, it would have been even higher.

“Now that schools have their attendance baselines they will be monitored on how they perform against it. The expectation is that schools will show significant improvements in their second year. 

“In return for greater autonomy with how they use their funding, charter schools will face greater scrutiny and must adhere to minimum standards. 

“Minimum standards are informed by a school’s equity index (EQI), which is reviewed annually. As schools grow and change, their EQI, and the standards they are expected to meet, may also change. The goal is to guide schools towards the Government’s target.

“All charter schools are expected to make progress towards these minimum standards and the Government’s target of 80 per cent of students attending regularly.

“If a school does not meet its minimum standard, the Authorisation Board will step in. Initially, this may involve requiring the school to map out how it will improve attendance. If progress is not made, the Board can end the school’s contract.

“The charter school model ensures these schools can be flexible in how they use their funding, while maintaining clear accountability for results. Ultimately, this is about making sure more children are in class, learning, and succeeding.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/charter-school-students-attended-more-than-state-students-in-2025/

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Live: Fuel stations run out again, Luxon warns NZ preparng for ‘prolonged’ Iran conflict

Source: Radio New Zealand

Petrol stations across the country are seeing a surge of drivers filling up as petrol prices rises amid fears of rapidly jumping prices and potential shortages.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis have been addressing the latest on the fuel crisis, warning that NZ is now preparing for a possible ‘prolonged’ Iran conflict.

“Hope is not a plan,” Luxon said.

It comes in the wake of a global rise in oil prices following the US-Israel war on Iran. Iran’s response has included the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key transportation channel for Middle Eastern energy exports.

Strikes overnight hit Iran’s part of the world’s largest gas field. Iran has vowed revenge, listing energy targets in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar as potential targets.

The Automobile Association here has warned further price hikes are likely.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis face questions on the fuel crisis. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

There have been reports of service stations running out of fuel as motorists rush to fill up.

New Zealand has several weeks’ supply in storage or on the way, the government has said.

Luxon and Willis will be speaking to the media at Parliament from 1.30pm. Watch it live at the top of this page. RNZ will also be blogging the developments as they happen.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/live-fuel-stations-run-out-again-luxon-warns-nz-preparng-for-prolonged-iran-conflict/

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Black smoke seen rising from Auckland suburb of Ponsonby

Source: Radio New Zealand

Smoke seen rising over Ponsonby from St Paul’s College. Supplied / Linda Hallas

Black smoke can be seen over the Auckland suburb of Ponsonby.

Photos from St Paul’s College, on Richmond Rd, show smoke rising in the distance.

Do you know more? Share your pictures and stories with us at: iwitness@rnz.co.nz

It is understood Ponsonby Automotive on Williamson Ave is well involved in fire.

Explosions had been heard coming from the scene, Stuff reported.

Smoke seen rising over Ponsonby from St Paul’s College. Supplied / Linda Hallas

Auckland Pet Hospital on nearby Pollen St has been evacuated.

In a post to their Facebook page, staff said “all our animals are safe and have evacuated with us.”

Fire and Emergency has been approached for comment.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/black-smoke-seen-rising-from-auckland-suburb-of-ponsonby/

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Football Ferns named for World Cup Oceania Qualifiers Finals in NZ

Source: Radio New Zealand

Kate Taylor is back for the Football Ferns. Shane Wenzlick / Phototek.nz

The Football Ferns squad has been named for the Oceania Qualifiers finals in Aotearoa next month, where the side will aim to book a ticket to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.

The squad sees Ferns’ regulars Ally Green, Jacqui Hand, Gabi Rennie, and Kate Taylor, added to the group, who won all three Oceania Qualifiers games in the Solomon Islands earlier this month without conceding a goal.

The Football Ferns will first face Fiji in the semi-finals on Sunday, 12 April at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton.

The winner of that game will then take on the winner of Papua New Guinea v American Samoa on Wednesday, 15 April at North Harbour Stadium in Auckland, with the victorious side securing qualification to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

Football Ferns head coach Michael Mayne said because the games come so quickly after the group stage, the decision was made to retain the vast majority of that squad.

“So we have real consistency and can hit the ground running once the players are back home,” Mayne said.

“The tournament in the Solomon Islands was a great start to the year, and while the scores reflected the difference in quality we have over those OFC nations, what was pleasing was the way in which we stayed connected to what we wanted to get from the fixtures in the way we played and approached those matches very professionally as a group.”

“The reality is, we have not played in New Zealand in over a year, so being back in Aotearoa is a real privilege and the prospect of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in front of our home fans and families is very special and not something we get to do very often.”

Full squad

Liz Anton

Hannah Blake

Kelli Brown

Claudia Bunge

Milly Clegg

Victoria Esson

Michaela Foster

Ally Green

Maya Hahn

Jacqui Hand

Deven Jackson

Grace Jale

Katie Kitching

Charlotte Lancaster

Meikayla Moore

Emma Pijnenburg

Gabi Rennie

Indiah-Paige Riley

Alina Santos

Rebekah Stott

Kate Taylor

Pia Vlok

Grace Wisnewski

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/football-ferns-named-for-world-cup-oceania-qualifiers-finals-in-nz/

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Serious Fraud Office looking at Chatham Islands Council spending

Source: Radio New Zealand

A scathing Auditor General report said former council chief executive Paul Eagle’s actions over a project to upgrade his own accommodation were unacceptable and misleading. RNZ / Te Aniwa Hurihanganui

The Serious Fraud Office is evaluating a scathing Auditor General report into spending by former Chatham Islands boss Paul Eagle.

The Auditor General’s report, released last week, said former council chief executive Eagle’s actions over a project to upgrade his own accommodation were unacceptable and misleading, after costs blew out by more than $250,000.

A spokesperson for the office said it was assessing the report to determine whether there are sufficient grounds to open an enquiry or criminal investigation into the issues raised.

“At this stage, no further information can be given, including whether the SFO will open an enquiry or investigation.”

The council has referred concerns raised in a scathing Auditor General’s report to the Serious Fraud Office.

In a post on its Facebook page this week, the council said it had formally received the report and had unanimously resolved to refer it to the appropriate authority for consideration.

“We are committed to responding responsibly, transparently, and in the best interests of our community,” Mayor Greg Horler said.

The Auditor General’s report, released last week, said former council chief executive Paul Eagle’s actions over a project to upgrade his own accommodation were unacceptable, after costs blew out by $250,000.

Eagle’s handling of documents was misleading and showed exceptionally poor judgement, the report said.

It said the former Wellington MP edited or created quotes and contracts for the project, and did not make “moderate” or “conservative” funding choices.

The original budget was set at $200,000 and blew out to $460,001.65. Another $37,739.19 was also spent on rent to house Eagle and his family as the work went ahead.

“We saw little sign of any consideration of containing costs during the project. We also consider that the chief executive made spending choices that were not moderate and conservative,” the report said.

“Purchasing expensive appliances for the kitchen and carrying out extensive electrical work that suppliers working on the project widely considered to be excessive were particularly questionable.”

The report also uncovered “serious integrity questions” for the council to contend with, including its policies relating to procurement, conflicts of interest, staff expenses and fiscal reporting.

It said Eagle had sole oversight over the project, and because the cost of the upgrade could be perceived as benefiting Eagle, his family should have instigated approval by the council, mayor or deputy mayor, in line with council policy.

The report was tabled in Parliament last Thursday.

“We have not reached a view on the legality of the chief executive’s actions. In this case, we consider it sufficient to draw the council, Parliament, and the public’s attention to the matter.”

In a letter included in the report findings, Eagle, who resigned last month, apologised and said his actions did not meet the standards expected of himself and his role.

“I started as chief executive of the council in late 2023, three months earlier than planned and, because of the illness of the outgoing chief executive, did not receive a formal, structured induction process covering the policies, processes, systems and documentation expected of the role.

“I wholeheartedly accept now that I should have sought clarity and support for this process.”

Interim council chief executive Bob Penter declined to be interviewed.

Paul Eagle has been contacted for comment.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/serious-fraud-office-looking-at-chatham-islands-council-spending/

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Live: Fuel stations run out again, Luxon and Willis faces questions about fuel crisis

Source: Radio New Zealand

Petrol stations across the country are seeing a surge of drivers filling up as petrol prices rises amid fears of rapidly jumping prices and potential shortages.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis are set to talk about the latest on the fuel crisis.

It comes in the wake of a global rise in oil prices following the US-Israel war on Iran. Iran’s response has included the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key transportation channel for Middle Eastern energy exports.

Strikes overnight hit Iran’s part of the world’s largest gas field. Iran has vowed revenge, listing energy targets in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar as potential targets.

The Automobile Association here has warned further price hikes are likely.

There have been reports of service stations running out of fuel as motorists rush to fill up.

New Zealand has several weeks’ supply in storage or on the way, the government has said.

Luxon and Willis will be speaking to the media at Parliament from 1.30pm. Watch it live at the top of this page. RNZ will also be blogging the developments as they happen.

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/live-fuel-stations-run-out-again-luxon-and-willis-faces-questions-about-fuel-crisis/

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Waihoehoe Road Upgrade driving forward

Source: New Zealand Government

Main construction is getting underway on the Waihoehoe Road Upgrade, helping to build the future of Auckland’s transport system Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

“This marks a major milestone in delivering improved transport connections and supporting long‑term growth in the Drury area,” says Mr Bishop. 

“Alongside other investments already underway in South Auckland, including the SH1 Papakura to Drury improvements, the new Drury, Ngākōroa, and Paerātā train stations, and the planned SH22 Drury upgrade, the Waihoehoe Road project will ensure roads and rail are being delivered together as a connected transport network. 

“South Auckland is the region’s fastest growing area with more than 120,000 additional people expected to make it their home over the next 30 years. Investing in an integrated transport network supports the Government’s priorities of unlocking growth and improving access to new housing and jobs.

“Waihoehoe Road will ultimately form part of a major east–west arterial route, running approximately 4.5 kilometres between Drury Hills Road and Jesmond Road. The corridor will support local communities and future rapid public transport services, helping connect people to the nearby Drury and Ngākōroa train stations.

“The project will widen and upgrade a 400‑metre section of Waihoehoe Road between Great South Road and Kath Henry Lane, improving safety, capacity and resilience. 

“Access to the new Drury train station and nearby housing developments currently underway will also be improved, while laying the foundations for future growth in the area.”

Notes to Editor: 

  • Key project features include:
    • Additional traffic lanes, increasing from two to four lanes, and up to six lanes on the new Waihoehoe Road bridge
    • New signalised intersections at Waihoehoe Road/Great South Road and Waihoehoe Road/Kath Henry Lane
    • A new, higher bridge over the North Island Main Trunk Line, with space to allow for KiwiRail to construct 3rd and 4th mains in the future.
    • Capacity for future bus lanes
    • New walking and cycling connections between Great South Road and the new Drury Train Station
  • Enabling works were completed in early 2025, and piling commenced in November 2025 to prepare the site for main construction work.
  • The project is expected to be completed in mid‑2028, at an expected cost of $136 to $148 million. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/waihoehoe-road-upgrade-driving-forward/

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GDP increases 0.2 percent in the December 2025 quarter – Gross domestic product: December 2025 quarter – Stats NZ news story and information release

Source: Statistics New Zealand

GDP increases 0.2 percent in the December 2025 quarter – news story

19 March 2026

New Zealand’s gross domestic product (GDP) rose 0.2 percent in the December 2025 quarter, following a 0.9 percent increase in the September 2025 quarter, according to figures released by Stats NZ today.

“GDP has now risen in 3 of the last 4 quarters,” general manager and macroeconomic spokesperson Jason Attewell said.

This is the first time since the year ended September 2024 that the economy has recorded annual growth.

Most industries recorded an increase in economic activity in the December 2025 quarter.

Visit Statistics New Zealand website to read the full news story and information release and to download CSV files:

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/gdp-increases-0-2-percent-in-the-december-2025-quarter-gross-domestic-product-december-2025-quarter-stats-nz-news-story-and-information-release/

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University Research – HPV self-test boosts cervical cancer screening ‘across the board’, new study confirms – VIC

Source: Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

 

Making human papillomavirus (HPV) self-testing available to all women increases the number of people screened for cervical cancer, a new study led by researchers from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington has confirmed.

 

The study, published today in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health journal, shows offering the HPV self-test lifts screening rates among everyone eligible, not just among those who have previously been under-screened for cervical cancer. (ref. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanogw/article/PIIS3050-5038(25)00201-8/abstract )

 

“We know from our previous research the HPV self-test is acceptable and accessible for under- and never-screened wāhine Māori. This new study proves HPV self-testing is a game changer, lifting cervical cancer screening rates for all women and people with a cervix,” said Professor Bev Lawton, lead author of the study and director of the University’s Te Tātai Hauora o Hine—National Centre for Women’s Health Research Aotearoa.

 

The study, which took place before HPV self-testing was rolled out nationwide in September 2023, included 22,511 people enrolled in 14 GP practices in Te Tai Tokerau Northland. Half the practices offered HPV self-testing and half offered a vaginal speculum exam by a doctor or nurse, the standard screening method before self-testing was introduced.

 

During the study period, which ran from February 2022 to September 2023, screening coverage was 10.8 percent higher among practices offering self-testing. Coverage was higher for all groups, including both Māori and non-Māori populations. 

 

“The evidence is clear. Universal HPV self-testing offered through primary care increases screening coverage, which reduces illness and death caused by cervical cancer. Millions of people around the world can be spared an invasive vaginal speculum exam by doing their own HPV test,” said Professor Lawton.

 

HPV causes 95 percent of cervical cancers. Since HPV self-testing was introduced in 2023, 81 percent of those being screened have opted to self-test. In the two years to July 2025, screening coverage rose by 7.4 percent. 

 

“Our new study adds to the evidence HPV self‑testing lifts screening rates across the board. This effect has been clearly demonstrated in Aotearoa New Zealand, where the introduction of universal HPV self‑testing—guided by this research—has led to a marked increase in coverage,” said Professor Lawton.

 

Professor Lawton and her colleagues are discussing the study findings at an international conference on HPV, being held this week in Austria.

 

“Cervical cancer is now preventable but remains a problem in many countries due to programmes not reaching high coverage levels. We believe all national cervical screening programmes should urgently consider a universal offer of HPV self-testing through primary care.

 

“HPV self-testing—offered by trusted providers, with training and on-going education for primary care staff, and supported by clinic ‘champions’—contributes to successful screening programmes. Universal HPV self-testing is acceptable, safe, and increases screening coverage. This will reduce harm, save lives, and make an important contribution to the equitable elimination of cervical cancer worldwide,” said Professor Lawton.

 

The research was funded by the Health Research Council, the Ministry of Health, and Mahitahi Hauora.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/university-research-hpv-self-test-boosts-cervical-cancer-screening-across-the-board-new-study-confirms-vic/

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GDP data shows a growing economy

Source: New Zealand Government

Economic data released today confirms the economy was growing at the end of last year, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

Stats NZ figures released today show real Gross Domestic Product rising 0.2% in the December quarter.

“While GDP data was volatile throughout 2025, the New Zealand economy picked up noticeably in the second half of the year, growing 1.1 per cent over the final six months after being relatively flat over the first half of the year,” Nicola Willis says. 

Before the recent conflict in the Middle East, economic forecasters had been predicting growth to continue and strengthen in 2026.

“The conflict will have an impact on the economy, but we are starting from a much stronger position now than was the case in the past few years, when high inflation and high interest rates were weighing down on people.

“The full impact of the conflict will depend on the severity of the disruptions and how long they last, but realistic scenarios have so far shown growth continuing in 2026.”

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/gdp-data-shows-a-growing-economy/

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Ban on retaining reef fish bycatch remains

Source: New Zealand Government

A proposal to allow certain reef fish species taken as bycatch in the fishery in the north of the North Island to be retained and sold by commercial fishers will not go ahead, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says. 

“My officials tested a proposal to remove a historic ban that prohibits commercial fishers from retaining 19 non-Quota Management species of reef fish caught as bycatch in these fisheries (FMA 1 and 9). The proposal would have allowed trawl, Danish seine, and bottom long line fishers to retain bycatch of these species.

“I have weighed up the costs and benefits of the proposal, along with feedback from the recreational fishing community and the public, and decided to keep the current restrictions in place.”

The ban was introduced in 1993 as part of a package of measures to protect reefs from commercial set net fishing and risks of overfishing. 

Public consultation on the proposal received more than 22,000 submissions.

“Some submitters sent a message that they were concerned about the ongoing sustainability of these reef-dwelling species, which have important ecological roles. They wanted commercial fishers who accidentally catch these fish to continue to return them to the sea,” Mr Jones says.

“I’m a huge supporter of our fishing industry which provides jobs in our communities and contributes around $1.5 billion to our economy.

“I thank everyone who provided feedback. This is an important part of the democratic process and demonstrates the interest Kiwis have in our fisheries.”

The proposal was part of a wider consultation on proposed amendments to commercial fishing regulations. The Minister’s decisions for the remainder of the proposed commercial fishing regulation changes will be announced in due course.

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/ban-on-retaining-reef-fish-bycatch-remains/

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DOC and Meridian Energy celebrate 10-years of powering Kākāpō Recovery

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  19 March 2026

This year marks 10 years of collaboration between DOC and Meridian as the National Partner of the Kākāpō Recovery Programme, working alongside Ngāi Tahu to support the critically threatened kākāpō.

DOC Director-General Penny Nelson says the partnership demonstrates the power of working together for nature.

“Meridian has supported the Kākāpō Recovery Programme in innovative and practical ways for ten years. From boots on the ground naturing alongside rangers, to providing infrastructure development and engineering expertise on the kākāpō breeding islands, Meridian has backed the programme through a period of strong growth.

“Partnerships like this show how businesses can make a real difference for nature. As we navigate the next steps in kākāpō recovery with another bumper breeding season in full swing, it’s fantastic to have Meridian’s continued support.”

The renewed agreement will continue to provide vital resources for the recovery of kākāpō, a nocturnal, flightless parrot that was once on the brink of extinction with just 51 birds in 1995.

Thanks to conservation efforts and strong partnerships, the kākāpō population has increased from 124 in 2016 to 235 in 2026, and with new chicks hatching this season, that number is set to rise.

Meridian Energy Chief Executive Mike Roan says they are proud to continue their commitment to kākāpō.

“Having been to Whenua Hou island and seen firsthand the work that DOC, Ngāi Tahu and volunteers from across New Zealand do to protect and grow the kākāpō population, I feel privileged to be able to extend Meridian’s support to those efforts. For a decade, we’ve worked together to support this taonga, and we’re proud to continue that commitment through to June 2029.”

Ngāi Tahu species representative for kākāpō Tāne Davis says Meridian’s support as the National Partner of Kākāpō Recovery is extremely important, not only to kākāpō but to Ngāi Tahu as well.

“Ngāi Tahu connect strongly to this taonga species and to see the population grow is important to us. The partnership is extremely important to keeping the mauri of kākāpō alive. Meridian’s funding is well utilised to help sustain the species and support from their team through volunteering and maintenance of the electricity supply on the kākāpō islands is key to the success of the programme.”

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/doc-and-meridian-energy-celebrate-10-years-of-powering-kakapo-recovery/

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Crashes cost up to 70% more than expected, data shows

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Ministry of Transport currently factors elements such as road closures, emergency service response, and the social costs for the life lost into the total cost of a road fatality. RNZ

A transport consultancy firm says analysis of traffic data reveals the total cost of a crash is up to 70 percent higher that previously calculated.

The Ministry of Transport currently calculates the social cost of a road fatality at more than $15 million, which includes elements such as the road closure, emergency service response, and the social costs for the life lost.

But Abley Principal Transportation Planner Chris Blackmore told Nine to Noon data analysis shows that the impact of a crash on the overall road network is not factored into that calculation.

“There’s a lot of big immediate costs that we see when you look at the impacts of road trauma – be that FENZ, hospital admission, recovery costs.

“We do occasionally take into account any easily visible impacts of closing a road … but at the moment that’s only really included at a high level, and it ignores a lot of the secondary and following impacts.”

Councils and the Transport Agency had traditionally relied on physical equipment such as pneumatic road tubes to measure traffic data.

“That’s really what has prevented, up until now, having a more holistic view of the impacts of what we call network disruption.”

But a system called TomTom Area Speed enabled the analysis of more information, and more sophisticated data about the wider impacts crashes had, Blackmore said.

TomTom takes information from sources such as Apple, data from the cars themselves, and other apps motorists might be using to show exactly how widespread the congestion is, for how long, and what activities might be affected.

Blackmore provided the example of a crash between a bus and a car on Auckland’s Tamaki Drive, which closed the significant connection between the eastern bays and the city centre for more than 24 hours.

“What we could see with TomTom was that as that link closed, people had to find their way around.

“Say five O’clock, six O’clock in the morning, that’s all right … but what happens when you get into the peak hour … we see all of the other connections from the eastern bays massively overloaded.

The TomTom data showed exactly how people reacted to road closures, he said.

“Some people do u-turns, some people turn of earlier and try and get through some back roads, some people try to tough it out in the queue.”

When the data was added up, it revealed the overall impact the crash had on travel times, and the total disruption to the road network.

Crashes on rural roads also could carry a heavy unseen cost, Blackmore said, using the example of a crash on State Highway 6 near Kington in Otago.

“What we saw there was that travel time increases weren’t as significant because there’s not a heap of congestion. People could figure out that there’s a crash before they started driving down State Highway 6 and make their choices.

“But we did see hundreds of thousands of extra kilometres that people had to travel, and that has impacts on people’s lives and their routines as well.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/crashes-cost-up-to-70-more-than-expected-data-shows/

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Rugby: Table-topping Hurricanes face first NZ derby of Super Rugby season

Source: Radio New Zealand

Billy Proctor celebrates scoring a try with team mates. MARK EVANS

The Hurricanes top the Super Rugby standings, but the real tests of their title credentials are yet to come.

They face the Highlanders in Dunedin on Friday night in their first New Zealand derby of the season, before games against the Reds, Blues, Chiefs, Brumbies and Crusaders.

All Blacks centre Billy Proctor returns to the Hurricanes lineup after missing last week’s win over the Force in Napier, and he faces a monumental challenge in trying to contain Highlanders midfielder Timoci Tavatavanawai, nicknamed ‘Jim the Difference’.

“It seems like a lot of teams have been struggling with Big Jim,” Proctor said.

“I guess our ability to shut down the space and not give him too much time on the ball and eliminate his threat at the breakdown is going to be big this week and will go a long way for us trying to get the win.”

Timoci Tavatavanawai of the Highlanders in action against the Crusaders. © Photosport Ltd 2026 www.photosport.nz

This time last year the Hurricanes were languishing near the bottom of the ladder. All Blacks halfback Cam Roigard said they are pleased with how they’ve started in 2026, with three wins from four games.

“Yeah it’s been good, we’ve done a bit of reflecting and I think this time last year were dead last, so it’s quite the contrast.

“It’s been a unique start with the bye round one and we haven’t played a New Zealand team yet. We know that it’s going to be a massive challenge this week.”

Hurricanes half back Cam Roigard kicks ahead during the Super Rugby Pacific game against the Western Force. Kerry Marshall / www.photosport.nz

So far the Hurricanes have played Moana Pasifika, the Fijian Drua, the Waratahs and the Force.

Roigard knows they’ll have to lift their performances if they want to keep winning, and he’s wary of a Highlanders side coming off a loss to the Crusaders.

“It’s our first New Zealand derby, whereas the Highlanders have had three or four already. So they’re going to be battle-hardened and they’re going to be ready for this game.

“It was [an] unfortunate result for them, losing to the Crusaders. But they’re back at home and there’ll be plenty of passion and they’ll be wanting to get one back over a New Zealand team.”

The Highlanders are seventh in the standings with just two wins from five games. However, they’ve played the Chiefs and Crusaders (twice) already this season and Proctor believes the hosts will be tough to beat in Dunedin on Friday night.

“They have a dangerous back three – there’s a lot of X-factor there. We touched on Big Jim before, someone that probably leads the comp in defenders beaten and he’s up there in the Jackal [winning turnovers] list too.

“There’s a few threats right there as well as their big ball-carrying forwards to go along with it. So plenty to handle out there, but we’re excited and looking forward to it.”

Billy Proctor of the Hurricanes celebrates scoring a try. MARK EVANS

Proctor himself has been in strong form, scoring five tries in the three games he has played to be third-equal with Blues wing Caleb Clarke on the list of the season’s top tryscorers.

The Brumbies’ Charlie Cale leads the way with seven tries, while Max Jorgensen of the Waratahs has six.

“It’s guys like Cam making all the breaks and me being on the end of it,” Proctor said. “I’ve been benefiting from a lot of good play from everyone, so I’ve been enjoying it.”

Roigard will play inside Ruben Love for the first time this season, with the latter named to start at first-five against the Highlanders after returning from injury via the bench in last week’s victory over the Force.

“I think my first start for the Hurricanes was with him at 10 back in 2021. So it would be cool to wind the clock back,” Roigard said.

“I think he’ll bring a lot of control. He’s got a real dominant voice and I think that control in the right areas of the field is an element I’m looking forward to having and obviously his X-factor, the ability to break the game open and as it goes on, hopefully he’ll be able to pick on some tired bodies.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/rugby-table-topping-hurricanes-face-first-nz-derby-of-super-rugby-season/

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‘Should not be alarmed’: Massive training exercise on Lake Tekapo this weekend

Source: Radio New Zealand

Lake Tekapo. Karen Jiang

A multi-agency Search and Rescue training exercise is scheduled this weekend, police said, in the Tekapo region.

Lake Tekapo will host Operation Oasis between Friday and Sunday, “a complex, multi-phase scenario designed to test search techniques, field skills, and fatigue management in realistic conditions”.

It will involve more than 200 specialists from across Canterbury, including members of Police, Coastguard, Surf Life Saving New Zealand, Land Search and Rescue, Amateur Radio Emergency Communications, Alpine Rescue Canterbury, Hato Hone St John, and the Defence Force.

“Members of the public will see increased activity in the area, with use of helicopters, boats, and Search and Rescue personnel and equipment,” police said.

“This is a planned, routine training exercise and the public should not be alarmed.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/should-not-be-alarmed-massive-training-exercise-on-lake-tekapo-this-weekend/

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Body found in search for missing man, Lake Manapouri

Source: New Zealand Police

Police searching for the missing man in Lake Manapouri over the past week, have this morning recovered a body.

On Saturday 14 March, around 6.15pm, Police received a report that a man had fallen overboard from a vessel approximately 1km offshore in Lake Manapouri.

While formal identification is yet to take place, Police believe it is likely to be the missing man.

Police Search and Rescue and the Police Dive Squad, with assistance from the Royal New Zealand Navy, conducted extensive searches of the lake and surrounding areas over the past few days.

Today, the Police Dive Squad and the New Zealand Navy recovered the man’s body from the lake.

“Police extend our deepest condolences to the man’s family during this difficult time,” says Sergeant Alun Griffiths.

“I would also like to thank all those involved in the search – we are especially grateful for the assistance of the New Zealand Defence Force in providing specialist expertise that allowed this extended search to be concluded,” he says.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/body-found-in-search-for-missing-man-lake-manapouri/