Category: MIL OSI – New Zealand

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Ngāti Pāoa Treaty settlement comes into effect

Source: Auckland Council

After 15 years in motion, the Ngāti Pāoa Treaty settlement came into effect yesterday, marking a significant milestone for the Auckland iwi and for Tāmaki Makaurau as a whole.

The settlement includes a Crown apology, cultural recognition measures, financial redress of $23.5 million, and the return of a number of culturally significant sites across the Auckland region.

Ngāti Pāoa’s interests extend along the western shores of Tīkapa Moana / the Hauraki Gulf and the eastern parts of Auckland, from Te Aroha to Warkworth, including Waiheke Island and across to the Coromandel Peninsula.

The Ngāti Pāoa settlement is the first historical Te Tiriti o Waitangi / Treaty of Waitangi settlement made in Auckland since 2018. It forms a part of a wider programme of settlements across Tāmaki Makaurau, both completed and still to come.

Yesterday’s date also carried historical significance. On 4 March 1840, several Ngāti Pāoa rangatira signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi at Karaka Bay in Tāmaki Makaurau. The settlement coming into effect on the same date echoes that earlier moment when Ngāti Pāoa first entered into the Treaty relationship with the Crown.

The Ngāti Pāoa Claims Settlement Act 2025 gives effect to the Deed of Settlement signed in 2021. The legislation, which received Royal Assent in November last year, settles historical Treaty claims arising from Crown actions prior to 21 September 1992.

Working together into the future

Auckland Council welcomes the settlement legislation coming into effect.

“The settlement of historical grievances is an important step for Ngāti Pāoa and for the region. It supports the growth and development of Ngāti Pāoa and strengthens our ongoing relationship with the iwi and our work together across Tāmaki Makaurau,” says Nicholas Turoa, Tumuaki Huanga Māori / Director Māori Outcomes.

A joint management arrangement is already in place at Ōmaru (formerly Point England Reserve), supporting shared stewardship of a public reserve while maintaining access for the wider community.

Mayor Wayne Brown has written to Ngāti Pāoa to acknowledge the settlement being finalised and to affirm the council’s commitment to continue working together on future aspirations.

“I congratulate Ngāti Pāoa on the passing of its Treaty settlement. It is a significant milestone, and I acknowledge the decades of perseverance it has taken to get here. This milestone has taken a collective effort by the iwi. As a council, we have valued our long-standing relationship with Ngāti Pāoa and look forward to working together on our shared priorities,” says Mayor Brown.

Historical context

The agreed historical account records extensive land alienation through early Crown purchasing practices in Auckland, and the operation of native land laws in the 19th century.

In one example, land in Kohimarama purchased by the Crown in 1841 for £100 and goods was later subdivided and sold for significantly higher amounts, with no reserves set aside for Ngāti Pāoa despite assurances that they would share in the benefits of settlement. Over time, Crown purchasing practices and forced public works takings resulted in the alienation of much Ngāti Pāoa land, leaving the iwi largely landless in the wider Tāmaki area.

The settlement formally acknowledges these historical grievances.

Sites returned and recognised

Twelve sites of cultural significance have been vested in Ngāti Pāoa, including land at Ōmaru, Waiheke Island and other parts of the region.

At Ōmaru, near Glen Innes, the Treaty settlement enables Ngāti Pāoa to establish a marae at Pāoa Whanake and papakāinga housing at Hine-nui-o-te-paua, overlooking the Tāmaki River and Tīkapa Moana / the Hauraki Gulf.

Other redress includes statutory acknowledgements on sites and areas of significance to the iwi, and the recognition of Ngāti Pāoa associations with maunga and places across Tāmaki Makaurau and the Hauraki Gulf.

Several Crown protected areas will also adopt Māori or dual-language names, including in Pūkorokoro / Miranda and Te Haupa Island (Saddle Island).

Together, this settlement redress supports iwi development and formally recognises the enduring connections of mana whenua to place, to landscape, and to the history of this region.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/ngati-paoa-treaty-settlement-comes-into-effect/

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Bill to modernise census passes first reading

Source: New Zealand Government

Legislation to support a more efficient census and provide timelier data for New Zealand has passed its first reading today, Statistics Minister Dr Shane Reti and Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith say.

“The Data and Statistics (Census) Amendment Bill will move New Zealand from the traditional five-yearly, survey-led census to a more efficient annual approach that draws on existing government data, supported by a smaller annual survey and targeted data collection, to better meet the country’s needs,” Dr Reti says.

“Rising costs, declining response rates, and disruptions from events such as natural disasters have shown the traditional approach is no longer sustainable.

“Accurate population data is essential for planning hospitals, schools, transport, and other core services. The census remains critical to understanding who we are as a nation and to providing the data needed to fix the basics and build the future.”

The Data and Statistics (Census) Amendment Bill confirms the first annual census will take place in 2030 and requires Stats NZ to publish census data every year thereafter, providing government, businesses, and communities with more timely and useful information.

It also sets requirements for public consultation on census content, including harder-to-reach groups, and establishes review processes to support the new approach.

“In light of these changes, we’re also progressing legislation which alters the timing of electoral boundary reviews,” Mr Goldsmith says.

“Reviews currently take place following every census, however, to do so every year is not necessary.

“Therefore, from 2030 they’ll now be required to take place after every second general election. This will ensure reviews remain regular and on a predictable basis, to ensure electorates reflect population changes.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/bill-to-modernise-census-passes-first-reading/

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Two men charged following Ōtāhuhu assault

Source: New Zealand Police

Two men have been charged over an assault in Ōtāhuhu on 27 February.

Police is aware of footage circulating on social media this week, showing the incident occurring on Great South Road.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, of Counties Manukau West CIB, says enquiries began after a Police unit passed an altercation occurring between two security guards and a man.

“We have made further enquiries into what has taken place, and two men have been charged as a result,” he says.

Both men, aged 24 and 36, have been jointly charged with injuring with intent. They will appear in the Manukau District Court on 10 March.

ENDS

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/two-men-charged-following-otahuhu-assault/

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Update: Fatal fire, Ōtāhuhu

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of a fatal fire overnight in Ōtāhuhu.

Emergency services responded to the fire at a garage at a house on Tamaki Avenue, at around 9pm on 4 March.

Sadly, one person was located deceased inside the property.

Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, Counties Manukau West CIB says: “A scene examination has been carried out today alongside a fire investigator.

“At the same time, we are continuing to work through our formal identification procedures, with a post-mortem examination also set to take place tomorrow.

“Given these enquiries remain in the early stages we are continuing to treat the circumstances as unexplained.”

Police will look to issue a further update as enquiries progress.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/update-fatal-fire-otahuhu/

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Fire Safety – Fire permits suspended ahead of hot weekend in Queenstown Lakes District

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Hot and windy weather has raised the fire risk in the Queenstown Lakes District to extreme, prompting Fire and Emergency New Zealand to suspend all fire permits in its Lakes Zone for the next three days.
District Commander Craig Gold says that any outdoor fire would cause an unacceptable risk to the community, firefighters and the environment.
“We have reached a critical point in the fire season, and safety is our top priority. With risk levels now exceeding safe operating limits for land management or recreational fires, we are suspending all active permits to protect our communities and our environment.”
The Lakes zone is already in a Restricted Fire Season, so the suspension of existing fire permits means that no outdoor fires can be lit from 8am tomorrow (Friday 6 March) until 9pm on Sunday (9 March).
People carrying out activities that can generate sparks, such as grinding or welding, should take extra care to do this well away from vegetation. Mowing, harvesting and similar activities should be done in the early morning or evening.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/fire-safety-fire-permits-suspended-ahead-of-hot-weekend-in-queenstown-lakes-district/

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Local News – Full steam ahead for Porirua streamside planting programme

Source: Porirua City Council

More than 100,000 plants will go in the ground in Porirua this year as the city’s streamside planting programme to restore Te Awarua o Porirua Harbour shows no sign of slowing down.
The streamside planting programme, which launched in 2022, is a transformational project to create thriving habitats and improve the water quality of Porirua’s waterways and, ultimately, the harbour. Council is working in partnership with Ngāti Toa and collaborating with the regional council, Mountains to Sea, community groups, and supporting thousands of students across schools to take up the cause.
In 2026, there is $900,000 in funding – half from Ministry for the Environment and half from Porirua City Council – to restore habitat along our waterways, including putting 108,000 plants in the ground between May and October. This funding also ensures the continued maintenance and health of our previous years’ plantings to guarantee long-term project success.
Planting will take place in Horokiwi, Pāuatahanui, Taupō swamp, eastern Porirua and Rangituhi.
Council’s Manager Urban Ecology, Daniela Baggio, says working with the community to care for nature and carry out planting is extremely satisfying.
“It’s going to be a busy winter for our Parks team and we are always looking to build on the previous years’ engagement,” she says.
“Schools and communities are really committed and engaged in the programme and I’m certain we will get willing volunteers out there, often on wet days, getting their hands in the ground as we look to improve the health of the harbour, which is one of our key priorities as a Council.”
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says planting around Porirua’s streams and waterways was a huge boost for the harbour.
“We know what planting is needed and we’re making a huge effort each winter to make this happen. Our ongoing commitment to catchment restoration is part of the Porirua Harbour Accord, which was signed just over a year ago, uniting key partners to restore the ecological, cultural and environmental integrity of this precious taonga for Porirua.”
Other key focus areas of the Accord include improving water quality, restoring biodiversity, integrating sustainable water management with urban development, and addressing climate change impacts. Signed on 6 February, 2025, it is an agreement between Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira, Porirua City Council, Greater Wellington Regional Council, Wellington City Council and Wellington Water Ltd and other partners passionate about the harbour’s future.
Planting days and opportunities for the public to participate will be advertised on Council’s website and social media as they’re confirmed closer to May.
Streamside planting stats from 2025:
170,200 plants in the ground
1377 volunteer hours at three community days in Cannons Creek, Papakōwhai and Bothamley Park
53 schools (1564 students) attend 10 planting days
32.9 hectares of riparian and erosion prone land planted

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/local-news-full-steam-ahead-for-porirua-streamside-planting-programme/

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Toitū launches national campaign: Climate Action = Smart Business

Source: Toitū Envirocare

Toitū Envirocare has launched a new national campaign built on a clear and commercial premise: Climate Action = Smart Business.

Aimed squarely at CEOs, directors and senior decision-makers, the campaign makes a direct case to New Zealand organisations that credible climate action is a driver of resilience, efficiency, market access and long-term value.

With more than 900 certified clients across Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally, Toitū is using the campaign to showcase organisations that have embedded emissions measurement and reduction into core strategy and are seeing measurable business outcomes as a result.

Featured organisations in the campaign include:

WM New Zealand: “Our partnership with Toitū Envirocare has helped us translate sustainability commitments into measurable business outcomes. Being featured in this campaign celebrates that journey,” says Sustainability and Communications Manager, Andrea Svendsen

Toyota New Zealand: “Sustainability is central to how we operate and innovate. As a valued partner of ours, Toitū Envirocare helps us verify our emission reduction targets to ensure we stay on track to creating a more sustainable future for New Zealand,” says Susanne Hardy, Assistant Vice President Marketing, Sustainability and Technology.

Silver Fern Farms: “We intentionally chose to position climate innovation as a core pillar of our Sustainability Action Plan, and this investment is paying off – delivering what our customers need and unlocking real operational efficiencies. Our partnership with Toitū Envirocare since 2018 has been fundamental in building the transparency, trust and rigour to turn ambition into action, and we are proud to share that in this new campaign.” says Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer, Kate Beddoe.

Each represents a different sector of the economy, but the same underlying principle: disciplined climate action strengthens commercial performance.

“Climate leadership is no longer optional for businesses that want to compete in domestic and export markets,” said Aisha Daji Punga, CEO of Toitū Envirocare. “Our clients are demonstrating that when emissions management is embedded properly, it drives operational discipline, risk reduction and stronger stakeholder confidence. That’s smart business.”

The campaign positions Toitū not as a marketing badge, but as a strategic partner helping organisations:

  • Measure and verify emissions with credibility
  • Set science-aligned reduction targets
  • Strengthen procurement and supply chain positioning
  • Meet growing investor, regulator and customer expectations
  • Turn climate commitments into measurable business impact.

The multi-city rollout across Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch is supported by digital and targeted media designed to reach senior leaders where strategic decisions are made. However, the primary objective is engagement rather than visibility.

“Our focus is high-quality B2B conversations,” said Marnie Pitcher, General Manager of Marketing and Impact at Toitū. “Boards and executive teams are asking sharper questions about risk, resilience and competitiveness. This campaign answers that directly: credible climate action strengthens your business.”

As regulatory scrutiny, investor expectations and supply chain requirements continue to tighten globally, Toitū’s message is straightforward: organisations that act early and systematically will be better positioned than those that treat climate as a compliance afterthought.

For organisations evaluating their climate strategy in 2026, the question is no longer whether to act but how to act in a way that delivers measurable commercial return.

About Toitū Envirocare

Toitū Envirocare works with more than 900 organisations across New Zealand and internationally to measure, manage and reduce climate and environmental impact through internationally recognised certification programmes. As a government-owned, independent, ISO- and JAS-ANZ-accredited, science-led authority, Toitū provide services that translate climate ambition into measurable impact.

Note:

The Silver Fern Farms element of the campaign will roll out later in March. First up will be Toyota and Waste Management.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/toitu-launches-national-campaign-climate-action-smart-business/

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It’s Game On for new Pacific career pathways  

Source: New Zealand Government

Young Pacific people will have the opportunity to enter New Zealand’s growing $750 million gaming sector through Game On, a programme to support them into the industry, Pacific Peoples Minister Dr Shane Reti says.

“Game On will support up to 57 Pacific youth to turn their interest in gaming into real employment opportunities in an industry facing ongoing skill shortages,” says Dr Reti. “It will open doors and create long term opportunities for our Pacific communities.” 

Game On is delivered in partnership with NGO The Cause Collective, MSD’s Tupu Toa, industry leader PikPok and the New Zealand Game Developers Association.  

The Ministry for Pacific Peoples will be the key funder, investing $1 million over four years, matched by industry partners. 

“Young Pacific people bring creativity, fresh perspectives and strong collaborative strengths to industries like gaming and technology,” Dr Reti says.  

Through school outreach, studio visits, mentoring and internships, Game On will support Pacific learners explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) careers in real studio environments.  

Dr Reti says: “Game On builds on the Ministry’s wider work to improve Pacific outcomes in STEM – another way the Government is fixing the basics and building the future.

“Game On extends the reach of the Toloa programme and gives studios access to diverse Pacific talent.” 

The first cohort will begin their training in July 2026. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/its-game-on-for-new-pacific-career-pathways/

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Live: Football Ferns v American Samoa – FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow all the action as the Football Ferns take on American Samoa at National Stadium, Honiara in the Solomon Islands.

Thursday’s match follows Tuesday’s 8-0 victory over the Solomon Islands – their second World Cup qualifying match win.

The Ferns have officially qualified for Round 3 of the OFC Women’s World Cup Qualifiers.

Kick off against American Samoa is 3pm.

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/2026/03/05/live-football-ferns-v-american-samoa-fifa-womens-world-cup-qualifiers/

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No need for speed after dangerous driver lands in Court

Source: New Zealand Police

A dangerous driver who allegedly stole a car and drove it through Albany while intoxicated is now facing a raft of charges.

Late last night, Police were notified a vehicle had been stolen from Channel View Road, Takapuna.

Waitematā East Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant CJ Miles, says Police then spotted the vehicle travelling north on Wairau Road at about 1am this morning.

“Units, including the Police Eagle helicopter, have flooded the area, however the vehicle wasn’t located.

“But just a short time later, the vehicle was seen on Albany Expressway driving erratically and at more than twice the posted speed limit.”

Senior Sergeant Miles says Eagle observed the vehicle driving dangerously, crossing onto the wrong side of the road and at excessive speed.

“The vehicle has continued travelling through the Albany area before eventually coming to a dead-end street at St Andrews Way where it appeared the driver was attempting to take another vehicle.

“Police arrived quickly and took the man into custody without further incident,” she says.

Breath alcohol procedures were carried out and the man was allegedly over the legal driving limit.

“It’s extremely lucky no one was injured or seriously hurt as a result of this reckless behaviour.

“It’s clear he had little regard for anyone else and I’m pleased we could put a stop to this before anyone else was put at risk.”

A 25-year-old man will appear in North Shore District Court today charged with unlawfully taking a motor vehicle and driving with excess breath alcohol.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/no-need-for-speed-after-dangerous-driver-lands-in-court/

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Beaked whale found dead after initial refloat

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  05 March 2026

This statement can be attributed to Bec Rush, Mainland Auckland Operations Manager, DOC:

The Shepherd’s beaked whale that was refloated near St Heliers in Auckland on Tuesday 3 March was found deceased on the afternoon of Wednesday 4 March off Hobsonville.

It is unusual for a deep-water species of whale to be found close to shore – it’s often a sign it is injured or sick.

We have taken tissue samples for scientific analysis and are working alongside mana whenua to remove the remains from the current spot to a suitable burial site.

Thank you to everyone involved this week including Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Ngāti Paoa, Te Kawerau ā Maki, Project Jonah and Massey University, and the volunteers and public who have been a great support.

If you spot a stranded or entangled whale, dolphin or other sea animal, please immediately call the Department of Conservation emergency hotline 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Species background

This statement can be attributed to Dave Lundquist, Senior Marine Science Advisor, DOC:

The Shepherd’s beaked whale is found only in the Southern Hemisphere, with most records in and around New Zealand.

They are one of 13 species of beaked whale known from New Zealand, a world biodiversity hotspot for the group.

They are unique amongst beaked whales in having functional teeth in both the upper and lower jaws.

The Shepherd’s beaked whale status in New Zealand is Data Deficient, as we do not know how many of these animals there are, nor whether that number is increasing or decreasing over time.

We have records of 38 Shepherd’s beaked whales stranding in New Zealand, as well as 11 sightings of groups of whales seen live at sea.

Strandings have occurred all around the country, from Cape Reinga out to the Chathams and down to Stewart Island, indicating they likely have a widespread distribution throughout New Zealand waters.

Most of the live sightings are associated with offshore underwater canyon systems, for example off Kaikoura and Otago, in relatively deep waters typically used by beaked whales.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/beaked-whale-found-dead-after-initial-refloat/

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Cautionary approach to Bluff oyster season

Source: New Zealand Government

The Bluff oyster season is open, with a cautionary approach and after careful assessment of the fishery, Oceans and Fisheries Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft says.

A pre-season survey by Fisheries New Zealand found that although, like last year, 2026 was likely to be a challenging season, there were good numbers of new oysters beginning to grow to larger sizes, Ms Marcroft says.

“Careful management will be required this season with issues such as disease and environmental pressures impacting oyster abundance and condition but there’s encouraging signs as well.

“Early results from the annual survey show that these issues are still present in the fishery and careful science-based fisheries management remains vital to safeguarding the fishery’s future.”

Fisheries New Zealand conducts the Bluff oyster survey before the start of the season each year to assess the status of the fishery including oyster size, abundance and disease prevalence. 

The survey’s preliminary results have found that there is little oyster mortality and large numbers of small oysters in the areas of the fishery. This is similar to last year’s findings. 

“Fisheries New Zealand officials have been working with local oyster fishers on plans to protect areas with large numbers of small oysters, and set a conservative catch level,” Ms Marcroft says.

“Bluff oyster fishers have faced tough conditions in recent years and I’m thankful for their collaboration and research that forms the bedrock of this work.”

Bluff oysters have been fished for more than 150 years and are some of New Zealand’s most treasured kaimoana. As well as employing oyster fishers directly, Bluff oysters support the local tourism industry and are a delicacy enjoyed nationwide. 

“Fisheries New Zealand will work with oyster fishers over the first few weeks of the season to continue to assess oyster beds for quality and health to ensure what they are seeing aligns with the survey results,” Ms Marcroft says.

“I’ve been steadfast in my support for New Zealand’s oyster industry and have been deeply concerned about the issues both Mahurangi oyster farmers in the north and Bluff oyster fishers in the south have been facing.”

The Bluff oyster season is open from 1 March to 31 August each year but may end earlier depending on conditions in the fishery.

The full survey will be presented to the Shellfish Working Group in May, and the report will be made publicly available in November.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/cautionary-approach-to-bluff-oyster-season/

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Arrest following serious assault, Mātangi

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have this morning arrested and charged a man following a serious assault in Marychurch Road, Mātangi over the weekend.

Inspector Andrea McBeth, Hamilton City Area Commander says a 24-year-old patched Black Power member has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

He is due to appear in the Hamilton District Court tomorrow.

“This type of behaviour will not be tolerated and we will ensure that in any case, offenders will be held accountable.

“We understand the frustration of residents where we are seeing anti-social road user behaviour, and for these people to go one step further and attack people trying to speak with them, is unacceptable.

“We are extremely lucky that we are not dealing with more serious consequences here. There is zero tolerance for this violent offending.”

Police continue to investigate this attack which left two people with serious injuries.

“Further arrests are likely,” says McBeth.

If you have any information that could assist Police, you can contact us via 105 either over the phone or online, referencing file number 260301/0526.

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/2026/03/05/arrest-following-serious-assault-matangi/

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Police RUN recruitment operation in Auckland

Source: New Zealand Police

Ahead of a major recruitment activation and partnership with Round the Bays in Auckland this Sunday, Police are announcing more recruit wings are coming to Auckland. 

Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers says at Round the Bays last year the Commissioner announced a new campus in Auckland offering senior courses and recruit wings.

“A year on that campus is already a huge success – especially for recruit training,” she says.

“We can now confirm our third Wing at the RNZPC Auckland Campus will start on 29 June, and we are planning more for next year.”

Deputy Commissioner Rogers says Police heard feedback from the recruits that graduated from the Auckland Campus last year about what a great experience it was.

“They’ve raved about the benefits of being close to family, the quality of the facilities, the tight knit group they built and how smooth their transition into district was after training was complete,” says Deputy Commissioner Rogers.

“Many of our Auckland recruits are more established and have families, they’ve told us their dream of becoming a police officer wouldn’t have been possible without the RNZPC Auckland Campus.”

Providing recruits the opportunity to train closer to home continues to be a drawcard, with the RNZPC Auckland Campus supporting efforts to grow the Police workforce, especially in priority recruitment areas of Tāmaki Makaurau and Northland. 

“We’re also open to offering spaces on the Auckland Wing to those interested in relocating to support them in their move.

“Wings in Auckland are limited, and capped to a maximum of 40 recruits, so don’t hesitate,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers says.

“If you are ready to start your training for one of the most rewarding careers there is, come visit the Police recruitment activation at Round the Bays or apply now at New Cops.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/police-run-recruitment-operation-in-auckland/

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Nominating committee for the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation appointments

Source: New Zealand Government

Two new appointments have been made to the nominating committee for the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation, alongside two reappointments, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

Experienced corporate leaders Tim Mitchell and Juliet Tainui-Hernandez have been appointed.

Committee Chair Michelle Tsui, and committee member Mark Butcher have been reappointed to their roles from August 1 this year.

The committee identifies and recommends highly qualified candidates for the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation Board which oversees the NZ Super Fund and the Elevate NZ Venture Capital Fund.

“Tim Mitchell brings strategic oversight, recruitment expertise, and a strong understanding of the NZ Super Fund’s governance framework, alongside global investment community connections to identify effective governance candidates,” Nicola Willis says.

“Juliet Tainui-Hernandez is an internationally connected executive leader with 25 years’ experience in legal and financial services. She has governance, risk management, sustainability, and human capability expertise.”

Mr Mitchell’s and Mrs Tainui-Hernandez’s terms began on 1 March this year.

Ms Tsui has been on the committee since 2018 and Chair since August last year.

Mr Butcher has served on the committee since May 2018.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/nominating-committee-for-the-guardians-of-new-zealand-superannuation-appointments/

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One in court following burglary and flee, Hokitika

Source: New Zealand Police

Hokitika Police have arrested and charged a man following a burglary last week in Hokitika.

On Thursday 26 February, Police received a report from a local contractor that items had been stolen from their site.

The following day, a Police unit saw a man driving a vehicle that was known to be pink stickered. The driver was signalled to stop, however he failed to do so and fled.

Police did not pursue the vehicle, instead conducted area enquiries which led to locating the vehicle abandoned on Adairs Road, before the driver soon returned and was arrested.

During a search of the vehicle and the very near vicinity, officers located a number of items including those that were reported stolen the day before.

West Coast Area Commander, Inspector Jacqui Corner says this was a great quick catch by local staff.

“I would like to commend the officers involved in this arrest – their attention to detail in noticing the vehicle that was not supposed to be on the road, is what has led to this quick result.

“I am also very pleased that we were able to return the stolen goods to their rightful owner and hold the alleged offender to account,” says Inspector Corner.

The 57-year-old man is due to appear in Greymouth District Court on 25 March, facing a range of charges related to driving offences and receiving stolen goods.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/one-in-court-following-burglary-and-flee-hokitika/

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New NZ-Chile cooperation arrangement to deliver for agriculture sectors

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand and Chile have signed an arrangement to boost agricultural cooperation and drive sector success, Agriculture Minister Todd McClay says.

“Agriculture is at the heart of the New Zealand and Chilean economies. We have similar farming systems, similar geographies, and both advocate for open, rules-based trade,” Mr McClay says.

“The new Strategic Agricultural Arrangement 2026 – 2030 signals our strong commitment to working together and strengthening our agricultural relationship.

“Key features of the arrangement include encouraging regional and global collaboration and developing our people. We will work together to exchange expertise, promote and advance sustainable agricultural development, undertake important research and innovation, and build climate resilience.”

Last year New Zealand and Chile marked 80 years of diplomatic relations, and two-way trade reached $342.94 million in the year ending September 2025.
 

“The new arrangement will enable New Zealand and Chile to seize agricultural opportunities, tackle shared challenges, and ultimately achieve more together,” Mr McClay says.

“This Government is laser-focused on building the future, boosting returns for farmers, growers, producers and exporters, growing the economy and driving prosperity for New Zealanders.”

The arrangement was signed by Mr McClay and Chile’s Minister of Agriculture Dr. Ignacia Fernández.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/new-nz-chile-cooperation-arrangement-to-deliver-for-agriculture-sectors/

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Economy – Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the seven months ended 31 January 2026

Source: New Zealand Treasury

Thursday, 5 March 2026 – The Interim Financial Statements of the Government of New Zealand for the seven months ended 31 January 2026 were released by the Treasury today. The January results are reported against forecasts based on the Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update 2025 (HYEFU 2025), published on 16 December 2025, and the results for the same period for the previous year.

The key fiscal indicators for the seven months ended 31 January 2026 were overall favourable compared to the forecast. The Government’s main operating indicator, the operating balance before gains and losses excluding ACC (OBEGALx), showed a deficit of $6.0 billion. This deficit was $1.9 billion smaller than forecast. Net core Crown debt was lower than forecast by $1.1 billion at $184.3 billion, or 41.9% of GDP.

Core Crown tax revenue was $70.4 billion, broadly in line with forecast (0.1% below), with small offsetting variances across the major tax types.

Core Crown revenue was $77.3 billion, around $0.4 billion (0.6%) below forecast. Revenue from the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme was lower than expected due to the decline in the NZU price since the forecasts were prepared.

Core Crown expenses, at $83.1 billion, were $1.2 billion (1.5%) below forecast, reflecting lower spending across a range of functional classifications.

The OBEGALx deficit was $1.9 billion less than the forecast deficit. This reflects the core Crown variances mentioned above coupled with favourable results from Crown entities and State-Owned Enterprises.

The operating balance was a surplus of $4.0 billion, $4.5 billion stronger than forecast. The variance reflected a favourable OBEGAL result of $1.8 billion and stronger‑than‑forecast net gains on non‑financial instruments ($2.8 billion), partly offset by weaker-than-expected net gains on financial instruments ($0.3 billion).

The core Crown residual cash deficit of $1.9 billion was $0.8 billion smaller than forecast, reflecting lower operating outflows and higher capital cash inflows.

Net core Crown debt at $184.3 billion (41.9% of GDP) was $1.1 billion lower than forecast. This variance was largely driven by the smaller‑than‑forecast core Crown residual cash deficit mentioned above.

Gross debt at $220.6 billion (50.2% of GDP) was $3.6 billion lower than forecast. This reflected lower‑than‑forecast issuances of Euro Commercial Paper and Treasury bills of $1.8 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively.

Net worth attributable to the Crown at $183.5 billion (41.7% of GDP) was $4.6 billion higher than forecast. This favourable variance largely reflects the stronger operating balance result of $4.5 billion, discussed previously.

  

  Year to date Full Year
January
2026
Actual1
$m		 January
2026
HYEFU 2025
Forecast1
$m		 Variance2
HYEFU 2025
$m		 Variance
HYEFU 2025
%		 June
2026
HYEFU 2025
Forecast3
$m
Core Crown tax revenue 70,392 70,452 (60) (0.1) 124,198
Core Crown revenue 77,250 77,683 (433) (0.6) 136,919
Core Crown expenses 83,084 84,329 1,245 1.5 149,047
Core Crown residual cash (1,923) (2,753) 830 30.1 (14,802)
Net core Crown debt4 184,335 185,418 1,083 0.6 196,987
          as a percentage of GDP 41.9% 42.2%     43.3%
Gross debt 220,577 224,211 3,634 1.6 227,225
          as a percentage of GDP 50.2% 51.0%     50.0%
OBEGAL excluding ACC (OBEGALx) (6,002) (7,883) 1,881 23.9 (13,852)
OBEGAL (6,458) (8,236) 1,778 21.6 (16,934)
Operating balance (excluding minority interests) 4,022 (504) 4,526 – (6,547)
Net worth attributable to the Crown 183,485 178,844 4,641  2.6  172,693
          as a percentage of GDP 41.7% 40.7%     38.0%

Using the most recently published GDP (for the year ended 30 September 2025) of $439,709 million (Source: Stats NZ).
Favourable variances against forecast have a positive sign and unfavourable variances against forecast have a negative sign.
Using HYEFU 2025 forecast GDP for the year ending 30 June 2026 of $454,497 million (Source: The Treasury).
Net core Crown debt excludes the NZS Fund and core Crown advances. Net core Crown debt may fluctuate during the year largely reflecting the timing of tax receipts.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/economy-interim-financial-statements-of-the-government-of-new-zealand-for-the-seven-months-ended-31-january-2026/

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“Children living in fear”: More than 100 million children impacted in Middle East regional conflict – Save the Children

Source: Save the Children

At least 100 million children in countries directly impacted by the escalating violence in the Middle East and wider region face deepening fear, distress and the risk of physical harm and displacement, Save the Children said. 
This is the most expansive conflict in the region in decades, impacting at least 15 countries with strikes destroying homes, schools and hospitals in some of the worst-affected countries. Children are at heightened risk of physical and mental harm, exploitation and abuse. 
Nearly 200 children have been killed in the first five days, according to official and media reports – the equivalent of more than six classrooms full of children. 
Many schools across the wider region have closed due to the conflict, children are being kept inside and not allowed out to play, families are struggling to access healthcare services, and children are struggling to sleep. 
Prices of certain food items have skyrocketed in some areas. Families living in the region have spoken of doing everything they can to protect their children, ranging from fleeing homes to seek safety in schools and other buildings to moving in with relatives and friends with basements and more secure areas. 
Save the Children staff said people are taping up windows to stop the glass shattering with explosions and playing white noise to help their children sleep. 
Ahmad Alhendawi, Save the Children’s Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Europe Regional Director, said children were paying the highest price in the conflict: 
“Every war is a war on children, and as always, we are seeing children impacted the most. Children are living in fear, caught in the crossfire of this adult war. We have already seen nearly 200 children killed, and more innocent lives could be lost without immediate action. Children must never be considered as acceptable ‘collateral’. Wars have laws and children must be off limits in every conflict. 
“Children across the region are terrified of being pulled into a devastating regional war. For some, this is the first time they have faced blasts and explosions that shake their homes, and they don’t understand what is happening. Others have faced too many years of conflict that have marred their childhoods. Some have been displaced multiple times and lost all sense of safety and security. 
“More than 100 million children are living in areas that have been impacted by the escalating hostilities. Every possible effort must be taken to end all hostilities, prevent further escalation, and safeguard children. Only diplomacy can prevent further civilian suffering and create the conditions for lasting security for children across the region. Any further escalation risks pushing an already fragile region into a wider conflagration, with children paying the highest price of a war that they played no part in creating.” 
Save the Children urgently calls on all parties involved to immediately de-escalate and to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law, including by ensuring that civilians and civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, are spared from attack. 
The use of explosive weapons in populated areas risks severe harm to civilians, especially children, and should be avoided at all costs. 
Save the Children is the world’s largest independent child rights organisation, reaching tens of millions of children annually in about 110 countries through its work to save and improve children’s lives. 
Save the Children is currently raising funds in New Zealand to support the response in the Middle East through its Children’s Emergency Fund.
Notes:
  • [1] In the first five days since the escalation of hostilities in the Middle East and the wider region, government statements and media reports indicate that at least 181 children under the age of 10 have been killed in Iran, eight in Lebanon according to the country’s ministry of health, three in Israel and one in Kuwait
  • More than 100 million children live in at least 15 countries that have been impacted by the escalation including Bahrain, Cyprus, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, occupied Palestinian territory, Syria, Türkiye, and the United Arab Emirates. At least 14 countries have experienced one or more missile or air strikes since 28 February, while Israel closed some of the border crossings into Gaza following this escalation. Child population data for 2026 is taken from UN World Population Prospects. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/children-living-in-fear-more-than-100-million-children-impacted-in-middle-east-regional-conflict-save-the-children/

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Health – Strengthening the primary care workforce: The College welcomes employment changes for GPEP 1 registrars

Source: Royal NZ College of General Practitioners

The Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (the College) welcomes the Minister’s announcement that Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora (Health NZ) will become the direct employer for General Practice Education Programme (GPEP) Year One registrars from February 2027.
GPEP 1 registrars will continue to be able to choose practice employment alongside this new change.
The College and Health NZ have worked together on this change to provide registrars with a smoother transition into GPEP with pay, terms and conditions aligned with other specialist vocational programmes.
College CE, Toby Beaglehole says that the announcement continues the positive momentum towards investing in the future of primary care and ensuring it remains sustainable.
“This announcement is a very positive step forward in removing barriers for house officers joining our GPEP programme, with the continuation of their employment with Health NZ.”
“Alongside the new Primary Care pathway for PGY2s, this is another step forward that continues to build the attractiveness of being a specialist General Practitioner, which will result in a more sustainable primary care system in New Zealand. We know specialist GPs are vital to the health of our communities in New Zealand and are at the frontline of our health care system.”
The 2022 Malatest report highlighted that leaving the hospital-based system was the most significant barrier for doctors entering GP training.
“It’s great that GPEP registrars can choose to be employed under Health NZ, with the resultant benefits of continuity of employment that come with this and hopefully enabling similar conditions of employment to their hospital colleagues,” says Dr Ella Barclay, Chair of the College’s Registrar Chapter.
The College continues to aim to get 300 registrars into the GPEP training programme each year, with a clear focus on strengthening New Zealand’s primary care workforce by ensuring that we have more GPs and the workforce pipeline remains sustainable.
With Health NZ now becoming the employer of registrars who are not employed by a private practice in their first year of GPEP training, the College will retain its leadership over educational content, training standards, quality assurance, and clinical placements.
The option for registrars to be employed by a private practice will remain a core component of the GPEP training pathway and has not changed under this agreement.
The College and Health NZ will work together to ensure this process is seamless for new registrars applying for GPEP in 2027.
Applications for the 2027 GPEP intake will be  open from Monday 9 March – Monday 13 April 2026. Find out more and apply on the College website:  Specialise as a general practitioner | RNZCGP

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/health-strengthening-the-primary-care-workforce-the-college-welcomes-employment-changes-for-gpep-1-registrars/