Category: MIL OSI – New Zealand

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Second private Building Consent Authority approved

Source: New Zealand Government

The launch of New Zealand’s second private Building Consent Authority (BCA) will add competition and capacity to the building consent system, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.

“Easing the paperwork burden and cutting red tape out of our famously unproductive building consent system is a key part of this Government’s efforts to make it easier, faster and more affordable to build the homes and infrastructure Kiwis need,” Mr Penk says.

“We’ve committed to changes that will take lower risk building work out of council hands and back into the hands of trusted tradies, including the introduction of self-certification schemes and a now effective consent exemption for granny flats.

“On top of this, it’s encouraging to see competition and capacity growing in the building consent system, with Farsight NZ Limited Partnership now approved as a private Building Consent Authority.

“Farsight is the second standalone private BCA to get the green light, following Building Consent Approvals Limited in May last year.

“Farsight will handle all key building control tasks for its client Summerset, including processing and approving consents, inspecting work during construction, issuing code compliance certificates, and taking enforcement action if required.

“Summerset is one of New Zealand’s largest residential builders, and having its own BCA will bring greater consistency and certainty in how the Building Code is applied across its developments nationwide, helping speed up the delivery of much-needed retirement homes for Kiwis.

“By covering a substantial number of building projects, Farsight will also take pressure off council Building Consent Authorities that would otherwise have undertaken the work, allowing them to focus on other projects, which over time can lead to faster approvals across the wider system. 

“Consumer protections remain strong because all BCAs, public or private, must meet the same legal requirements. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) only approves those that are fully accredited, run by ‘fit and proper’ persons, and able to manage the liabilities of their role.

“This Government is fixing the basics and building the future. Approving providers like Farsight strengthens the building consent system, giving New Zealanders more choice, better service, and faster, more efficient results.” 

Notes to editor:  

There are now 69 BCAs responsible for delivering building control functions in New Zealand: 66 territorial or regional authorities (councils), two private BCAs (BCAL Limited and Farsight) and an independent division of Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities (Consentium).  
To be registered as a standalone or private BCA an organisation must gain accreditation from International Accreditation New Zealand (IANZ) and be able to demonstrate to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) that it:

meets a ‘fit and proper person’ test (including requirements for impartiality and independence, conducting business responsibly, acting professionally etc), and
has adequate means to cover civil liabilities that may arise from their operation as a BCA and that effective consumer protection is provided by whatever arrangements are proposed.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/second-private-building-consent-authority-approved/

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Health and Care – Royal Commission highlights critical role of aged care in protecting New Zealand’s health system

Source: Aged Care Association

The Aged Care Association says the findings of the COVID-19 Royal Commission reinforce what the sector has been saying for years: aged residential care is an essential part of New Zealand’s health system and must be treated as core health infrastructure.
Chief Executive Tracey Martin said the report’s lessons for future pandemic planning highlight the critical role that aged residential care facilities play in protecting some of the country’s most vulnerable people.
“Residential aged care facilities provide complex clinical care to tens of thousands of older New Zealanders every day,” Martin said.
“During COVID-19, providers worked tirelessly to protect residents from the virus while continuing to deliver around-the-clock care under extremely difficult circumstances.”
The Royal Commission notes that older people living in residential care are among the most vulnerable populations during infectious disease outbreaks and that stronger national preparedness planning will be required for future pandemics.
Martin said the report reinforces an important point that is often overlooked in health policy discussions.
“ Aged care is health care, and the Royal Commission makes that impossible to ignore.”
“Long-term care facilities cannot be treated as peripheral services in the health system. They are a critical part of our national health infrastructure.”
Approximately 40,000 New Zealanders currently live in aged residential care facilities, receiving nursing care, medication management, dementia care, rehabilitation support and end-of-life care.
“At any given time, aged residential care providers are effectively operating thousands of hospital-level care beds within the community,” Martin said.
“Without aged residential care, hospitals would be under even greater pressure. Recognising residential care as part of the country’s core health infrastructure is essential not only for future pandemic preparedness, but also for the day-to-day functioning of our health system.”
Martin said the Royal Commission’s findings align closely with the sector’s long-standing message that “aged care is health care.”
“For too long aged residential care has been discussed as if it were primarily accommodation for older people,” she said.
“In reality it is a critical part of the healthcare continuum, providing complex clinical care to people who can no longer safely remain at home.”
The Association said the report also highlights the importance of ensuring aged residential care is fully integrated into national health planning for future public health emergencies.
“If we accept that residential care is critical health infrastructure, then we also need to have an honest conversation about whether the way we fund and plan for the sector today is sustainable for the future,” Martin said.
The sector is already seeing increasing demand for care as the population ages, while many providers are operating ageing facilities and facing workforce shortages.
“In many regional communities aged residential care providers are a vital part of the local health system,” Martin said.
“When beds are lost in smaller towns it can mean older people are forced to move away from their families and communities to receive the care they need.”
Martin said planning for the future of aged residential care must be a priority as New Zealand prepares for both future pandemics and the rapid growth of the older population.
“The lessons from COVID-19 should prompt us to ensure the systems supporting older New Zealanders are strong, sustainable and fully integrated into the wider health system.”
The Aged Care Association said it looks forward to working with Government and health agencies to ensure the lessons identified in the Royal Commission report are reflected in future health system planning.
About the Aged Care Association:
The Aged Care Association represents the vast majority of aged residential care providers in New Zealand, supporting more than 670 facilities that provide care to approximately 40,000 older New Zealanders.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/health-and-care-royal-commission-highlights-critical-role-of-aged-care-in-protecting-new-zealands-health-system/

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NZ spy agency providing Iran war threat intelligence

Source: Radio New Zealand

GCSB Director General Andrew Clark. VNP/Louis Collins

The Government Communications Security Bureau (GCSB) spy agency says it is providing round-the-clock threat intelligence updates on the Iran war.

The GCSB, along with its partner agency NZ Security Intelligence Service (SIS), appeared at a Parliamentary select committee for their annual reviews on Wednesday.

GCSB Director-General Andrew Clark told MPs it was a very volatile geopolitical environment.

“Conflict and tensions have sometimes arisen with little notice and this week’s major conflict in the Middle East is no exception, and our team has been providing round-the-clock threat intelligence updates to our customers, especially to the NZDF and MFAT,” Clark said.

In general, the bureau, which collects ‘signals’ intelligence, was taking a more proactive approach to detecting and disrupting threats while coping with the “rapid pace” of change in “disruptive technologies”.

“In this changing environment, we’ve provided intelligence relating to terrorist activity and to foreign state activity where that could threaten the safety of New Zealanders and international partners.”

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/nz-spy-agency-providing-iran-war-threat-intelligence/

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Culture Art Environment – HĪKOI O TE TAOKA | MARCH OF THE TREASURE

Source: Otago Shore and Land Trust

Location: Ōtepoti Dunedin, Aotearoa New Zealand

PREVENT | PRESERVE | PROTECT — ART IN ACTION

Hīkoi o te Taoka | March of the Treasure is a powerful travelling public art protest across Te Waipounamu (the South Island), uniting communities and visitors through large-scale art to protect one of the world’s rarest penguins: the beloved hoiho (yellow-eyed penguin).

From Dunedin to Queenstown, larger-than-life hoiho statues will appear in prominent public spaces, transforming everyday locations into a moving call for environmental action. The exhibition blends art, storytelling, and awareness to shine a spotlight on the urgent plight of this taonga species.

Hīkoi o te Taoka, meaning March of the Treasure, reflects the deep cultural and environmental value of the hoiho to Aotearoa. Reimagining activism as a living gallery of hope, the campaign invites people to stop, reflect, and take responsibility for the future of a species on the brink of extinction.

“The hoiho is quietly disappearing from our coastline,” says Jerad Haldan, Trustee of the Otago Shore & Land Trust.
“This hīkoi is about giving the hoiho a voice, through art that stops people in their tracks and reminds us that there is still time to act, if we choose to.”

Art with a Purpose

Each life-sized statue is a vivid artistic expression, designed to spark conversation and connection. Together, they tell the story of the hoiho’s struggle and resilience, reminding us that the survival of this delicate species lies in human hands.

Today, fewer than 400 hoiho remain. Habitat loss, disease, warming seas, and overfishing continue to threaten their survival.

The hoiho is more than an endangered species. It is a treasured New Zealand icon, featured on the $5 note, and a drawcard for visitors from around the world who travel to Otago hoping to glimpse this rare and shy penguin in the wild.

A Call to Action for Media and Community

Hīkoi o te Taoka invites local, national, and international media to follow the hīkoi and share the stories of the statue sponsors (wildlife guardians), artists, conservationists, and communities working to protect this precious species before it is lost forever.

Media outlets, photographers, influencers, and content creators are encouraged to visit the installations, capture the artworks, and amplify the campaign’s message.

Opportunities include visual storytelling, artist and conservation interviews, and coverage of how art-led activism can inspire environmental change.

Installation Locations

Dunedin: Tūhura Reserve, Dunedin Railway Platform, Larnach Castle, plus a roving hoiho appearing at pop-up locations
Oamaru: Cycle Journeys, Victorian Precinct
Wānaka: Outside Puzzling World
Arrowtown: Outside Lakes District Museum
Queenstown: Queenstown Airport terminal, Steamer Wharf, LyLo Hotel.

Hīkoi o te Taoka — March of the Treasure Together

The 10 hoiho statues will then make their way back to Dunedin, where they will be displayed together. The final journey — the march of the hoiho back home — will take place on the following dates at these locations:

The Octagon: 5–10 April 2026
Wild Dunedin’s NatureDome event at Forsyth Barr Stadium: 12 April 2026
Tūhura Otago Museum Exhibition: 14 April – 14 May 2026
Tūhura Otago Museum Live Auction: 8 May 2026

Website: www.otagoshoreandland.org/the-hikoi-project

Follow the journey on social media: #HīkoioteTaoka #ArtForHoiho #MarchTheTreasure

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/culture-art-environment-hikoi-o-te-taoka-march-of-the-treasure/

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Transport groups unite in call for driver licensing support

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand

A coalition of transport groups is calling for increased access to driver education and training to help address the growing number of New Zealanders without a full driver’s license.
The group, consisting of Transporting New Zealand, Driving Change Network, Bus and Coach Association, MITO, Heavy Haulage Association, National Road Carriers, and Groundspread NZ wrote to Ministers last week requesting more support for the growing pool of unlicensed Kiwis, which totals over one million.
The group wrote that the recent changes to the Graduated Driver Licensing System would reduce the financial burden on learners, but more needed to be done.
“We remain concerned that this alone won’t be enough to help young people attain licenses at the scale required for them to live full, independent lives and potentially to be able work in commercial transport,” the letter said.
Transporting New Zealand’s Chief Executive, Dom Kalasih says at least 70% of job listings require a driver’s licence.
“For the road freight sector, that figure will obviously be a lot higher. Ministry of Transport estimates the freight task will grow more than 20 per cent over the next 20 years – an additional 60 million tonnes of freight moved per year. With that growth we need a sustainable supply of qualified drivers. A full Class 1 licence is the first step in that pipeline.”
The letter said that stable investment across the transport, education and social development portfolios to improve access to driver training and testing will save the Government and taxpayers money by reducing the amount of young people entering the justice system and improving their employability.
The seven organisations said driver education and testing should be integrated into secondary schools and supported by Government funding.
“Driver education in schools should be a normal part of the transition from school into work,” said Kalasih.
“Without it, too many young people who can’t access support at home or pay for private lessons are left behind.”
The group is also calling for boosted funding for low-income learners to access free programmes, and for the growth of community-based training and testing services, particularly in rural and high-deprivation areas.
“Investing in driver licensing is a cost-effective way of getting people employed, keeping them out of trouble with the law, and supporting self-sufficiency. We hope that all political parties will commit to improving access to driver education and testing.” said Kalasih.
The group is awaiting a response from the Ministers for Education, Transport, Vocational Education, and Social Development.
Three steps to improve licence uptake and workforce participation
Increase targeted financial support for low-income applicants by doubling annual government funding from $20 million to $40 million, with training and testing services delivered through community providers and MSD.
Integrate driver training into all New Zealand secondary schools by 2030, offering theory preparation, practical lessons, and on-site testing, supported by stable central and local government funding and promoted as a pathway to employment and independence.
Increase funding for mobile and community-based licensing services, particularly in rural and high-deprivation areas, from $4.05 million per year to $20 million per year.
About Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand
Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand is the peak national membership association representing the road freight transport industry. Our members operate urban, rural and inter- regional commercial freight transport services throughout the country.
Road is the dominant freight mode in New Zealand, transporting 92.8% of the freight task on a tonnage basis, and 75.1% on a tonne-km basis. The road freight transport industry employs over 34,000 people across more than 4,700 businesses, with an annual turnover of $6 billion. 
About The Driving Change Network
The Driving Change Network was launched in 2019, and is committed to ensuring New Zealand’s driver licensing system helps, rather than hinders, people’s access to life opportunities. The network is made up of a diverse group of over 900 stakeholders representing community providers, instructors, NGOs, Iwi, and businesses that support driver education, training, and licensing. These stakeholders recognise that fixing the issue is not about making driver’s licence tests easier or cheaper. Rather, they aim to address structural inequalities in the driver’s licensing system that make it ineffective and difficult for many users to engage with.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/transport-groups-unite-in-call-for-driver-licensing-support/

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New proposal aims to reduce complications following a stem cell transplant

Source: PHARMAC

People who have just had a stem cell transplant could be better protected from a serious viral infection under a new proposal from Pharmac to fund a preventive medicine. 

Pharmac is consulting on a proposal to fund letermovir, an antiviral medicine that helps prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection. If approved, funding would begin on 1 May 2026. 

CMV is a very common virus and is usually harmless. Most people are exposed in childhood where it stays in their body for life without any problems. However, it can cause serious illness in people whose immune systems are not working properly, particularly those who have had a stem cell transplant. 

“For people recovering from a stem cell transplant, infections like CMV can mean long hospital stays and intensive treatment,” says Pharmac’s Manager of Pharmaceutical Funding, Claire Pouwels. “Preventing infection in the first place can help people avoid these outcomes.” 

Under the proposal, letermovir would be funded for people who have had a stem cell transplant, as well as a small number of other people with severe immunosuppression who cannot use other funded antiviral medicines. The medicine would be available in hospitals and through community pharmacies. 

“We’ve heard from clinicians and our clinical advisors that preventing CMV can make a real difference,” says Pouwels. “Letermovir works by helping prevent CMV from becoming active, rather than waiting until someone becomes unwell and needs more intensive treatment.” 

Stem cell transplants are only carried out in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, meaning many people must travel and stay away from home for long periods while their immune systems recover. If CMV infection develops, that time in hospital can be extended. 

“Preventing CMV infection could reduce the need for lengthy hospital stays, helping people get home sooner and spend more time with their whānau,” says Pouwels. 

Pharmac is seeking feedback on the proposal from people who may be affected, including patients, families and carers, health professionals, advocacy groups, and anyone else who is interested. 

Consultation is open until 5pm, Thursday 19 March. Feedback can be emailed to consult@pharmac.govt.nz. All feedback received by the closing date will be considered before a final decision is made.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/new-proposal-aims-to-reduce-complications-following-a-stem-cell-transplant/

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Dangerous drivers face court

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have impounded seven vehicles and summonsed four drivers to court with another three pending charges following a gang-related funeral procession.

A Police operation monitored the convoy that travelled between Ōtara and the Manukau Memorial Gardens in Wiri on 5 February.

Inspector Ann Wilkie, Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, says Police observed reckless behaviour from some taking part in the procession.

“Police assigned to monitor the procession witnessed appalling actions by passengers of some of the vehicles,” Inspector Wilkie says.

“Adults and teenagers who were sitting on the edge of car windows; as well as several vehicles being driven dangerously.

“This behaviour continued for quite some time, putting other road users, and the people hanging out of the windows at real risk of harm.”

A checkpoint was established at the entrance to the Manukau Memorial Gardens, checking those leaving.

Traffic cameras, as well as Police staff on the ground, were able to capture images of drivers, passengers and registration plates of the vehicles involved.

“As a result, we have already caught up with a handful of people we have identified as committing these dangerous acts,” Inspector Wilkie says.

“Our enforcement phase is ongoing, and we expect to take further action.”

Inspector Wilkie says Police acknowledge the passing of a loved one and want to support a safe journey to their final resting place but cannot allow the sort of behaviours that put others at risk.       

“Police have made it clear to participants about what is acceptable behaviour,” she says.

“The behaviour by some of those involved in this was not good enough and they have been put before the Court.”

Four women aged between 27 and 37 have been summoned to appear in the Manukau District Court for dangerous driving, and had their vehicles impounded for 28 days.

Another three vehicles have also been impounded for 28 days as part of the same incident and Police are considering further charges.

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/dangerous-drivers-face-court/

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Rural News – Profitability at all-time high, but farmers cautious – Federated Farmers

Source: Federated Farmers

Strong returns and lower debt-servicing costs mean more farmers than ever are making a profit, according to the latest Federated Farmers Confidence Survey.
Of nearly 650 farmers who responded to the survey in late January and early February, 70% said their farm was currently profitable.
“That’s the highest level since we started our twice-yearly Farm Confidence Survey back in 2009,” Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says.
“It’s great to see farmers doing well after several tough years of rising costs and uncertainty. When farmers are profitable, that’s good news for the rest of New Zealand.
“That money flows into rural communities and the wider economy, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening regional New Zealand.”
The mid-season survey shows farmers are feeling the most confident about current economic conditions since 2017, with a net 37% positive score.
“That’s a big turnaround from 2023/24, when farmer confidence was stuck at rock bottom and looked like it was just going to keep falling,” Langford says.
“Improved commodity prices are the key driver, as well as lower lending interest rates.
“At the same time, Federated Farmers has been working incredibly hard to cut some of the red tape that was holding our sector back, and we’ve had a Government that’s listened to our concerns.
“That easing of regulation has really helped breathe new life back into rural New Zealand again.”
The recovery from 2023/24 is now firmly established across most sectors, with the number of profitable dairy farms stable at 81%, and meat and wool farms improving substantially.
“Arable farm profitability continues to lag at 41%, but that’s a small improvement from our July 2025 survey.
“It’s been an incredibly challenge year and harvest for our arable farmers across the country” Langford says.
Despite favourable current conditions for farmers, the survey shows many are feeling apprehensive about the future, with concerns about cost pressures and market volatility.
When asked about their expectations for after-tax profit over the next 12 months, farmers’ optimism has dropped sharply, with more now predicting a fall in profits than an increase.
This marks the first negative profitability outlook since early 2024.
“Dairy farmers were particularly pessimistic,” Langford says.
“With forecast payouts hovering around $8.50-$9.50 per kilogram of milk solids, but rising input costs pushing the break-even margin to $8.50, there’s quite a bit of nervousness there.
“Farmers might be receiving strong milk cheques, but it’s the margin that matters. If costs keep rising, that will quickly eat away at profitability.”
Forward sentiment on economic conditions slipped to a net positive 4%, down from 6% six months ago.
A particularly worrying result is the finding that more farmers are having difficulty recruiting skilled and motivated staff.
Langford says it’s incredibly frustrating for farmers because, even as nationwide unemployment rises, they struggle to find good staff.
“It’s a message we keep sending to successive governments,” he says.
“The primary industries are the engine room of the economy, but it’s hard to attract willing workers to more remote provincial areas.
“Farmers play a role in training and looking after their staff, but many challenges are beyond their control.
“When rural communications, roads, bridges, and school bus services are under-invested in, younger workers and families stay in the cities – sometimes even if that means relying on a benefit,” Langford says.
When asked in the survey about their greatest concerns, farmers said regulation and compliance costs are still the main worry, but input costs have risen back to second place.
“While inflation has eased across the broader economy, on-farm expenses for essentials such as electricity and feed remain high.
“That’s continuing to put pressure on farmers’ cashflow and profitability.
“Worries about farmgate and commodity prices jumped sharply to third place.”
Asked what the priorities should be for the Government in election year, fiscal policy was number one on farmers’ lists.
“Clearly, farmers are concerned about government spending, taxation and debt levels,” Langford says.
“They also want the Government to prioritise the economy and business environment.”
Local government reform was fourth on the priority list, up from eighth just a year ago.
“There’s continued dissatisfaction with rates hikes, spending priorities and service delivery in rural areas,” Langford says.
“Hopefully the Government’s proposals for a rates cap, and for reducing the number of councils to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency, will see these concerns diminish in future.
Langford says the best move the Government could make to turbocharge confidence and investment in agriculture would be to pick up Federated Farmers’ ideas for improvements to the new legislation that will replace the Resource Management Act.
“That bloated Act, and the costly and time-consuming resource consents and hearings it entails, has been a thorn in the side of our productive sector for far too many years.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/rural-news-profitability-at-all-time-high-but-farmers-cautious-federated-farmers/

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Appointment of the Health and Disability Commissioner

Source: New Zealand Government

Health Minister Simeon Brown has today announced the reappointment of Ms Morag McDowell as Health and Disability Commissioner.

“Ms McDowell brings extensive legal expertise and significant experience in the health sector. Her reappointment will support the organisation to continue delivering its work in a fair, timely, and effective manner,” Mr Brown says.

“This Government is committed to keeping patients at the centre of our health system. I look forward to working with the Commissioner to further improve services and ensure all New Zealanders receive safe, high-quality healthcare.”

Ms McDowell has been reappointed for a two-year term commencing 7 March 2026.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/appointment-of-the-health-and-disability-commissioner/

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Two arrests following Papakura shooting

Source: New Zealand Police

Two people have been arrested and a firearm recovered following a shooting in Papakura on Saturday morning.

Police were conducting patrols in the Clevedon Road area at the time heard what they believed to be gun shots, and a short time later came across a man with a gunshot injury.

The man was transported to hospital in a moderate condition and has since been discharged.

Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor, Counties Manukau CIB, says a 23-year-old man and 47-year-old woman have been charged jointly with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and unlawful possession of a restricted weapon.

“The male has been remanded in custody and will reappear in Papakura District Court on 26 March and the female will reappear on 16 March.

“Enquiries are ongoing and we ask that anyone with information which may assist our investigation contact us via 105, quoting file number 260228/8498.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Taylor says initial indications are that the victim and the offenders are known to each other and there is no risk to the wider community.

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

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/two-arrests-following-papakura-shooting/

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The calmness factor: Finn Allen’s attitude change pays off for Black Caps

Source: Radio New Zealand

Black Caps opener Finn Allen plays a shot during their T20 Cricket World Cup semifinal against South Africa, in Kolkata on March 4, 2026. AFP

Black Caps hero Finn Allen has developed a calmness about his role as an opener that is paying dividends at the T20 World Cup, the team’s batting coach Luke Ronchi says.

Allen turned New Zealand’s semifinal today into a fireworks display, hitting an unbeaten century in just 33 balls, a T20 World Cup record, as they crushed South Africa by nine wickets in Kolkata.

They will play the winner of tomorrow’s semifinal between England and India in the final in Ahmedabad on Monday NZT.

Allen and fellow opener Tim Seifert blazed away, turning South Africa’s total of 169 for eight into an easy-get, achieving the win in just 12.5 overs for the loss of Seifert’s wicket.

Seifert took on the dominant role to start with, his 58 coming in 33 balls, but Allen gradually increased his pace, finishing with a blitz of four sixes and four fours and a solitary single off the last nine balls he faced, bringing up his century and the victory with a boundary.

“The start Finn and Seif gave us chasing that total was just phenomenal,” Ronchi told Morning Report.

“To see Finn keep going on and play the shots he played the way he did in the moment was just amazing.”

Allen’s form at the World Cup has followed an imperious Big Bash campaign in Australia, where he was [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/584964/finn-allen-s-perth-scorchers-power-to-sixth-big-bash-title the leading scorer with 466 runs for the Perth Scorchers, who won the title in January.

“There is a calmness in situations that he is understanding now,” Ronchi said.

“He can grasp situations of a game or an innings and … if there’s an impactful over or an impactful bowler coming on, he knows trying to get through and play certain shots can be massive in that moment and he’s been doing that beautifully.”

Allen’s combination with Seifert had been “awesome” at the World Cup, Ronchi said.

“They give you impetus starting off an innings like that and the guys behind them can play their way and everyone is complementing each other nicely and hopefully we can do it one more time.”

Ronchi paid tribute to the bowlers, who had pinned down South Africa’s batters.

“The bowlers in general did a fantastic job to restrict South Africa to what we did.”

Rachin Ravindra (L) and Finn Allen celebrate the Black Caps’ win over South Africa in their T20 Cricket World Cup semi-final match in Kolkata on March 4, 2026. AFP

He said the preparation leading up to the tournament had been vital in helping the players understand the different styles of cricket needed on differing surfaces.

“We’ve been here now for two months, we’ve played some cricket in Sri Lanka, we’ve played in India, we’ve played on lots of differing grounds.

“That’s always going to help you, because you understand the style of cricket you want to play.”

Ronchi said the team were unconcerned about who their opponents in the final might be.

“Everyone is prepared to face whoever it’s going to be,” he said, adding they knew they had to adapt to the opposition and whatever the surface and conditions in Ahmedabad might be.

It was important the Black Caps grasp all the excitement and lead up to the final.

“You need to embrace it and own it,” Ronchi said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/the-calmness-factor-finn-allens-attitude-change-pays-off-for-black-caps/

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Upgraded women’s leadership database launched

Source: New Zealand Government

A new-look database to advance women’s progress into leadership roles has been launched to mark International Women’s Day.

Minister for Women Nicola Grigg says there is growing evidence that having qualified women on public and private boards strengthens decision-making, governance and financial performance.

“Women leaders play a critical role in a productive economy and New Zealand’s long-term growth and resilience. That’s why we are providing tools like BoardConnector to drive meaningful change to women’s representation.

“For the first time, private sector businesses across the country will have access to a pool of governance-ready leaders and aspiring leaders will be supported with training and resources to progress to governance roles.”

The proportion of female directors in NZX-listed firms has increased markedly since 2016, but women hold only 31 percent of private-sector director positions. Public sector boards and committees comprise about 50 percent women.

“Driving women into higher paid governance roles helps improve their economic empowerment, and reduces the gender pay gap and retirement savings gaps,” Ms Grigg says.

“We are growing the economy so that all New Zealanders are better placed to cope with the cost of living through more job opportunities and higher wages, and we’re pulling out all the stops to improve the economic outcomes of women and girls across New Zealand.”

Women interested in governance are encouraged to join BoardConnector and be part of building New Zealand’s future leadership capability. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/upgraded-womens-leadership-database-launched/

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Fatal fire, Ōtāhuhu

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, Counties Manukau West CIB:

At around 9pm last night reports were received that a property on Tamaki Ave, Ōtāhuhu was on fire.

Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand attended the scene with an investigation now underway.

At this stage we can advise that one person was located deceased inside the property.

Police are working to establish what has occurred and will remain on scene.

Anyone with information can contact Police online or call 105 using the reference number 260305/4989.

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

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

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

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Operation Block: Further man charged over homicide

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have charged another person in an ongoing homicide investigation following the death of a courier driver in Pakuranga Heights.

Operation Block commenced on 19 August 2024 to investigate the murder of 59-year-old Tuipulotu Vi on Marvon Downs Avenue.

Detective Inspector Shaun Vickers, of Counties Manukau CIB, says: “Police have charged a 35-year-old Waiuku man with murder.

“This is the second man to appear in court over Mr Vi’s death and we cannot rule out further arrests being made in this investigation.”

The 35-year-old man will appear in the Manukau District Court today.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/operation-block-further-man-charged-over-homicide/

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Arrest following serious assault, Frankton

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Inspector Andrea McBeth, Hamilton City Area Commander:

A man is before the courts following a serious assault in Hamilton yesterday.

At around 7am, Police were notified of an assault in High Street, Frankton.

Upon arrival, a man was located with serious injuries and transported to hospital.

Police made enquiries throughout the day and at around 2pm, the alleged offender from this violent and unprovoked attack was located in Melville and taken into custody.

A 35-year-old man will appear in the Hamilton District Court today, 5 March, charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assaults Police.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/arrest-following-serious-assault-frankton/

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ChamberWorks helps employers build teams

Source: New Zealand Government

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says a new partnership which supports business owners with their hiring decisions will help get more Kiwis into work.

ChamberWorks launched in Auckland today, as a partnership between the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) and New Zealand Chambers of Commerce.

“This is an exciting new development, and I welcome the joined-up approach between MSD and the Chambers,” Louise Upston says. 

“ChamberWorks will support more successful job placements and will be a valuable recruitment service for employers, helping them to find the right people for their vacancies.

“It aligns workforce needs with job seekers, meeting a gap in the market. Employers frequently tell me recruitment is one of the biggest challenges they face.

“It makes sense for these two key groups to work together because MSD has the largest talent pipeline of workers in the country. They’re also able to support the recruitment process with access to training and online learning.

“Along with MSD, I share the Chambers’ commitment to supporting businesses to build capable teams and getting job seekers into work. Working together, we can deliver more.

“Our Government is committed to fixing the basics and building the future for New Zealand. Getting more Kiwis into work is key to this,” Louise Upston says. 

ChamberWorks will be available nationally across the 23 New Zealand chambers and each will partner with MSD and collaborate on workforce plans, events and opportunities. 

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/chamberworks-helps-employers-build-teams/

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Live: NZ Defence Force planes prepare to fly to Middle East for evacuations

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above

Foreign Minister Winston Peters says when conditions allow, NZDF planes will help New Zealanders get to locations where they can get on commercial flights home.

He says they will not be long flights.

The minister says at the speed at which potentially thousands of people need to be moved, it’s better they are taken to a safer place as fast as possible.

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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/2026/03/05/live-nz-defence-force-planes-prepare-to-fly-to-middle-east-for-evacuations/

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Spike in children under 12 needing mental health support

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

More children under 12 are ringing Youthline, with its latest figures showing that age group makes up 10 percent of calls for help.

At the charity’s inaugural youth mental health summit at Parliament on Wednesday, speakers called for cross-party support and a more connected model of care for young New Zealanders who, since Covid-19, are struggling more than ever.

Youthline runs free services including a helpline, face-to-face counselling, mentoring, and programmes in schools.

Its chief executive, Shae Ronald, said the helpline had 28,000 conversations a year but demand had been climbing for more than a decade, particularly since Covid-19.

“We had a big jump last year in January, and we’ve had another big jump over the last three months.”

And the cases were growing in seriousness, too – the number of rangatahi who were considered very high risk, and requiring emergency intervention, was up to four a day. Ronald said she remembered a time when it was one a week.

Youthline’s Shae Ronald. RNZ David Steemson

Today, many young people were battling something she called the “missing middle service gap”.

“Many young people fall into the space where their needs are serious, but do not meet the threshold for urgent or specialist intervention. As a result, they may face long wait lists, limited availability, or uncertainty about where they fit within the system,” she said.

And the callers were getting younger, too.

“As of last year, 10 percent of all people contacting Youthline are under 12,” she said.

Australian psychiatrist Pat McGorry explained the increase of mental health distress among youths was a global trend, and it could be down to any combination of factors – social media, climate anxiety, rising cost of living and buying a house, and notably, Covid-19.

“The younger age groups had a much more precipitous drop in their mental health during the pandemic,” he said.

“We think it’s about 25 percent of the rise over the last 20 years, Covid is responsible for it.”

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey – who himself had spent time as a Youthline counsellor in the 1980s – expressed envy of Australia over the size and scale of their resources to respond to the mental health crisis.

But McGorry said it wasn’t all smooth sailing there, either.

“I assume it’s the same in New Zealand,” he said.

“Life is much more precarious in an economic sense for [young people]. Their futures are clouded in many, many ways. House prices in Australia cost you three times the median income 40 years ago to buy a house. Now it’s 10 times. And rents are proportionally equal.

“And there are students in Western Sydney at the universities who have to choose between buying textbooks and eating. So they have food banks in the universities. Now, how can a society like Australia, one of the richest countries in the world, tolerate that? I mean, it’s just madness.”

Dr Jess Stubbing, a clinical psychologist and researcher now working in Massachusetts, said New Zealand was yet to see the true peak of the wave.

“I’m seeing more and more younger people, who are coming in at a younger age with really significant need, and a lot of that is young people who were in their very formative, early years during Covid, when their families were stressed, the country was stressed, we were all divided, and that affects us, that affects how we grow up.”

She said the New Zealand system was not meeting the current need, and it was definitely not going to meet future need, either.

That left a couple of options, she said – spend money today on an integrated, cohesive mental health system, “or spend ten times that in a decade when those people are adults and need our adult services”.

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Doocey said the feedback he frequently received was that the system felt fragmented, with long wait times, unequipped to meet growing demand.

In the past 12 months, an extra 35,000 accessed support compared with the year before, which Doocey said was largely due to a reduction in workforce vacancies.

But that same growth wasn’t seen among young people.

A prevalence survey – the first of its kind for mental health and addiction among young people – was set to begin in the coming months, Doocey said.

And while that would take years to start producing data, it was a step in the right direction for a system where the need grew year on year.

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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/2026/03/05/spike-in-children-under-12-needing-mental-health-support/

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Hardened by the fall: Why Dave Rennie’s setbacks make him the right All Blacks coach

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Tony Johnson, rugby commentator

Three years after being unceremoniously dumped as Wallabies coach months out from 2023 World Cup, Dave Rennie will take on the All Blacks’ top job. PHOTOSPORT

Analysis – The road travelled over the last 26 years by Dave Rennie, from fledgling coach of the Upper Hutt club to the top job with the All Blacks, has been a long and winding one.

A quick promotion to the Wellington ranks in 2000 brought instant success, an NPC title that had eluded the Lions for 20 years, but since then there have been troughs to go with the peaks.

And it’s the experience gained from those most trying of times, notably his dismal 13 from 34 record with the Wallabies before being fired for Eddie Jones just months out from the Rugby World Cup, that might just prove as valuable as that gleaned from his successes.

Tony Johnson has been a Sky Sport rugby commentator for 27 years. Supplied

Sir Graham Henry has often spoken about how he’d had to learn to become a better people manager after his Lions team blew up in Australia in 2001. Were it not for a run of defeats against the Springboks in 2009 that forced he and his coaching team to have a long hard think about what they were doing, would they have won the World Cup two years later?

Failure at high level was something Scott “Razor” Robertson had no real experience of, and it showed. The defeat against England last November not only cost the All Blacks a much hoped for Grand Slam, it had a profoundly deflating impact on the team, from which the rumours of player discontent emerged.

Dave Rennie knows how to handle success, but will have learned much from his failures.

One of his first tasks will be to address the oft reported, but never truly proven cracks in the group and ensure the team ethos is intact. In this regard, his credentials are compelling.

For sure, his back to back successes with the Chiefs owed plenty to an outstanding group of players and a (cliché alert) coaching “Dream Team”, but it was Rennie who realised from the get-go that they were unlikely to win anything unless they figured out just who they were as a club, and who and what they represented.

From that journey of discovery came a powerful kaupapa, He Piko He Taniwha, On Every Bend (of the Waikato River) a Chief. It established a sense of identity Liam Messam describes as “bone deep”, and the hitherto elusive success came instantly. You’ll battle to find a single player from that era with a bad word to say about Dave Rennie.

Dave Rennie was renowned for building a strong team culture at the Chiefs, alongside a coaching dream team. PHOTOSPORT

As for his playing style, one thing Rennie will not be afraid of, is to bring some abrasion. His Chiefs teams infuriated opposition with their policy of clearing out anyone or anything within coo-ee of ruck. It is a risk-reward strategy that can be devastatingly effective when managed well, but a liability if carried out recklessly.

That’s all in the future. Of immediate importance now will be the establishment of a good coaching team around him. Whilst a complete clear-out of Robertson’s group is unlikely, it is also inconceivable that they will all survive. Rennie will want people with him he can trust, who align with his thinking. It won’t work otherwise.

Whilst public opinion appears to be well in favour of the decision, not everyone is convinced. Some have been quick to point at how his methods did not bring success to the Wallabies, a notable win over the Springboks notwithstanding. In his defence, he was trying to coach a team against an impossibly unstable backdrop, and he could hardly have fared worse than the man who replaced him so abruptly.

Some of those doubts may have been allayed by Rennie’s opening press conference, which was carried out with a clarity and authority that his predecessor had always struggle to convey. It also demonstrated his trademark willingness to challenge boundaries, exemplified in his comments about Brodie Retallick.

Retallick has been in outstanding form in Japan, and could clearly be a difference maker, but that would need the NZR eligibility laws to be tweaked.

Scott Robertson tried it with Richie Mo’unga and got nowhere. The fact that Rennie made his pitch with Chair David Kirk right beside him does make you wonder what they might already have discussed.

Kirk has made it clear that whilst a huge year lies ahead in 2026, it’s next years World Cup that is the number one priority. Was Dave Rennie saying “if that’s the task, then how far are you prepared to go to give me the best chance of achieving it?”

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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/2026/03/05/hardened-by-the-fall-why-dave-rennies-setbacks-make-him-the-right-all-blacks-coach/

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International trade: December 2025 quarter – Stats NZ information release

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/05/international-trade-december-2025-quarter-stats-nz-information-release/