Category: LiveNews

Posted on

Roadside drug testing continues to boost road safety efforts

Source: New Zealand Police

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Armed police at scene after assault puts Porirua schools in lockdown

Source: Radio New Zealand

Armed police remain at the scene (file image). RNZ/ Calvin Samuel

An assault in Porirua, which placed nearby schools in lockdown, has left one person with moderate injuries.

Police remain in the area – some armed.

In a statement, Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins, said officers were called to Dido Place in Cannons Creek about 7.40am on Friday.

Nearby schools were placed in lockdown while police attended.

The lockdowns have since lifted.

Perkins said the alleged assault has left one person with moderate injuries.

“An investigation into the incident is underway.

“A number of police staff remain at the scene and some are armed as a precaution.”

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/2026/02/20/armed-police-at-scene-after-assault-puts-porirua-schools-in-lockdown/

Posted on

Winter Olympics: Kiwi Mischa Thomas qualifies for halfpipe final as rival stretchered off

Source: Radio New Zealand

Canada’s Cassie Sharpe receives medical assistance after crashing during the women’s freestyle skiing halfpipe at the Winter Olympics. 2026. KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP

Auckland freeskier Mischa Thomas has qualified for the final of the halfpipe at the Winter Olympics.

The 17 year old landed a score of 77.00 in her first run and followed that up with a slightly improved 77.50 in her second.

With the best score from the two runs counting, Thomas qualified tenth.

The field had to contend with falling snow during the competition and Thomas said it provided some challenges.

“It was a run I was pretty comfortable doing, I’ve done quite a few times,” she told Sky Sport.

“The pipe was still fast and it is kind of scary to see what it is going to be like when it’s not snowing. It was a little bumpy so just had to manage that, but you get given what you’re given and you just have to deal with it.”

Zoe Atkin of Great Britain topped the qualifying with a best score of 91.50, while defending champion Eileen Gu of China qualified fifth with a score of 86.50.

The competition was paused for 15 minutes when Canadian Cassie Sharpe, who won halfpipe gold in 2018 and silver in 2022, fell and appeared to knock her head. She received medical attention but still qualified third.

The final is on Sunday morning.

New Zealand freeskier Mischa Thomas competes in the halfpipe at the Winter Olympics, 2026. KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP

Heavy snow again forced organisers to change the schedule with qualifying for the men’s freeski halfpipe pushed back a day.

It means Fin Melville Ives, Luke Harold, Gustav Legnavsky and Ben Harrington will start their qualifying on Friday night with the final scheduled for Saturday morning.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/winter-olympics-kiwi-mischa-thomas-qualifies-for-halfpipe-final-as-rival-stretchered-off/

Posted on

Fonterra provides Farmgate Milk Price and earnings update

 Source: Fonterra

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

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Fire Safety – Central Otago moving to a Prohibited Fire Season

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

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

Source: Amnesty Internatonal

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

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

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

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

Background

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

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Charter schools strengthen Crown-Tūhoe relationship

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Largest ever reduction in District Court criminal backlog

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Major delays as crash blocks lane on SH2 in Wellington

Source: Radio New Zealand

X/NZTA

A crash on State Highway 2 between Wellington city and Petone is causing delays for motorists.

The Transport Agency said the northbound lane is blocked just before the Petone off-ramp.

There are reports of long queues.

A police spokesperson said a truck hit the median barrier just before 8am on Friday.

No one has been injured.

Police said people should avoid the area if possible.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/20/major-delays-as-crash-blocks-lane-on-sh2-in-wellington/

Posted on

One person injured following assault, Cannons Creek

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Kāpiti-Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins:

One person has received moderate injuries following an assault in Cannons Creek this morning.

Emergency services were called to Dido Place just before 7:40am.

Nearby schools were placed into lockdown while Police enquiries were made. Those lockdowns have since been lifted.

An investigation into the incident is underway.

A number of Police staff remain at the scene and some are armed as a precaution.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/20/one-person-injured-following-assault-cannons-creek/

Posted on

Lane blocked, SH 2, Petone

Source: New Zealand Police

One lane on State Highway 2, northbound, Petone, is blocked following a crash this morning.

Police were called to the single-vehicle crash, where a truck has hit the median barrier, around 7.50am.

Thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible, and expect delays.

ENDS

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/20/lane-blocked-sh-2-petone/

Posted on

Wellington residents clean poo spray off houses after severe weather, failed Moa Point sewage spill

Source: Radio New Zealand

Faecal spray on a home on the Esplanade in Wellington. RNZ/Charlotte Cook

A film of toxic poo spray has coated homes around Wellington’s south coast after nearly a billion litres of raw sewerage have been dumped in the marine reserve.

Strong winds and severe weather have made an already feral problem worse, forcing locals to clean faecal spray off their homes, fearing a public health hazard.

“It’s been an absolute shit show,” resident Roger Young said.

“Sorry about the pun, but it’s been disgusting.”

Roger Young. RNZ/Charlotte Cook

Roger Young has lived in Houghton Bay for decades. His house is 100 metres back from the shore and was still tainted by Monday’s storm.

“The swell was seven metres rolling in on Monday morning, and the sea foam is carrying right across Houghton Bay, Princess Bay, Lyall Bay, probably Island Bay as well, and probably contaminated faeces all the way through it.”

He said his windows were filthy with what’s likely to be more than just salt and sand.

Island Bay resident Chris owns a house on the Esplanade. It was once cream, but despite three attempts with the hose, a brown smear remains.

“It’s slimy grime. When you run your finger along it, you get these brown marks of this residue that’s on there and that’s certainly not from salt.”

So what is it?

“Poo”, he said.

Despite three attempts with the hose, a brown smear remains on Chris’ house. RNZ/Charlotte Cook

“It’s residue from all that sewage that’s floating up and down the coast.

“I’m going to have to fully scaffold the house and wash it down. It’s now a health hazard to my tenants.

“It’s totally unacceptable that we’ve got to put up with this.”

Residents weren’t the only ones taking a hit. Popular Lyall Bay food stop Puku Pies was seeing the effects too.

Manager Rylee said most mornings, the windows are covered with a gritty, smelly sludge.

“The other day, when the Monday storm happened… we couldn’t even see out of the windows,” Rylee said.

“So we had to do that as soon as we got here in the morning and clean them off and yeah. We’re having to do it like at least every second day. It’s disgusting.”

Popular Lyall Bay food stop Puku Pies was seeing the effects too. RNZ/Charlotte Cook

Young is furious that in the midst of it all, Wellington Water chair Nick Leggett has legged it and resigned, leaving apologies unsaid.

“How can this happen in 2026? And how can we have the head of Wellington Water, Nick Leggett, just resign and think he’s just going to walk away from this?” Young said.

“People need to be held accountable and heads need to roll, seriously.”

Young said his son broke down crying because he couldn’t use the water for a couple of months.

“I just started crying, too. I’m going holy hell, this is our backyard and this has happened.”

Chris said he would be billing Wellington Water for his time washing the houses if the toxic seaspray continues to plague the coast.

The alternative was a $900 quote to have it professionally washed.

“Perhaps the chief executive might want to get out of his comfortable chair and come and have a look at what’s really happening around the district,” he said.

“I’m absolutely pissed off.”

A health warning sign on a beach in Wellington after the sewage spill. RNZ/Charlotte Cook

Wellington Water was still unsure what caused the Moa Point failure and how long the plant would be out of action.

It was not conducting sampling on private properties, but is instead conducting sampling in the sea around Wellington’s south coast to understand the impacts of the Moa Point discharge on the area. It was the National Public Health Service’s role to assess whether any public-health risks arise from environmental conditions and to provide health advice where required.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/20/wellington-residents-clean-poo-spray-off-houses-after-severe-weather-failed-moa-point-sewage-spill/

Posted on

Three men arrested after several hurt in gang-related robbery in Christchurch

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Keiller MacDuff

Three men have been arrested after four people were injured during a gang-related robbery at a home in Christchurch.

Emergency services were called to an address on Hoani Street in Northcote at about 9.30pm on Wednesday.

Police cars, vans and mobile units crowded into the quiet Papanui street. Armed scene guards stood at the first of several cordoned areas, with a large tent visible beyond several strings of police tape.

One person was in a critical condition, and another suffered serious injuries. The two other people were in a moderate condition.

Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves said the robbery was a gang-related incident and was targeted towards parties at this address. Police also believed a gun was shot during the robbery.

RNZ understood the incident was believed to involve members of rival gangs Black Power and Mongrel Mob.

Superintendent Tony Hill said in an update on Friday morning that three men had been arrested.

The men, aged 19, 31 and 40, have been charged with aggravated wounding and aggravated robbery. Two of the men are due to appear in the Christchurch District Court today, and the 40-year-old is due to appear in Dunedin.

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

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

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

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

He said residents can expect to see police at the Hoani Street address again on Friday as a scene examination continues.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/three-men-arrested-after-several-hurt-in-gang-related-robbery-in-christchurch/

Posted on

Writing an adoption memoir helped Sue Watson find Cynthia

Source: Radio New Zealand

“I just want to smell you. You’re so beautiful,” were the first words Sue Watson heard when she met her birth mother ‘Lizzy’.

Watson had always known she was adopted. She grew up as part of a happy family in West Auckland.

It wasn’t until she was in her 20s, in the 1980s, that she got a letter from her birth mother asking to meet, she told RNZ’s Nine to Noon.

Sue Watson with her son Max, lake Taupo.

Sue Watson

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/writing-an-adoption-memoir-helped-sue-watson-find-cynthia/

Posted on

Higher KiwiSaver contributions may mean lower pay rises

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ

You might be going to get a bigger contribution to your KiwiSaver this year – but will it be at the expense of your pay rise?

The first step in the increase in KiwiSaver contribution rates takes effect on April 1, for people who do not opt out.

The default rate rises to 3.5 percent from both employer and employee – so many employers will be contributing an amount equal to an additional 0.5 percent of their wage bill from that date.

This only applies for employers who have structured KiwiSaver contributions in the traditional way, where an employee contribution is matched by an employer contribution on top of their pay. People who are paid by total remuneration will have to cover the full increase themselves.

When the change was announced, Treasury said it expected 80 percent of the employer cost to be met by lower than expected pay rises.

Kelly Eckhold, chief economist at Westpac, said it was likely that all else being equal, pay rises this year would be lower.

“In the end, employers will pay a total level of remuneration in line with prevailing supply and demand trends in the market. Changing the allocation of what employees do with that remuneration is not likely to change that assessment. Having said this it will be impossible to know the counterfactual as we can only observe what employees are paid as opposed to what they might have been paid.”

Catherine Beard, director for advocacy at Business NZ, said businesses had to consider the total cost of employing someone.

“ACC charges, potentially fringe benefit tax, you’re going to have training costs, you might have uniforms… as someone who is hiring you think about what is the total cost to me and my business. So over time, any cost of employment does end up being factored into how much it costs to hire someone… superannuation KiwiSaver will be part of it.”

Apparel sector retailers example of hard times

Carolyn Young, chief executive of Retail NZ, said it was still a tough environment for retailers.

“Consider a retailer in maybe the apparel sector. They’ve been heavily hit over the last 12 months.

“Last year apparel monthly sales were down 5 percent in January, 9.1 percent in February, down 8.5 percent in March, down 7.8 percent in April, down 4.4 percent in May, down 1 percent in June… the whole year was really tough.

“They’re really running by the skin of their teeth – there’s no fat in the business… we do know that increasing KiwiSaver … is a place where as a country we need to head.

“The real difficulty is, it’s so challenging right now for retail to navigate increasing costs.”

She said until the economy clearly improved, the contribution increase was likely to mean smaller pay rises.

“It’s definitely a tricky time and definitely a space where employers will have to navigate their budgets really carefully around how they can recognise and reward staff alongside other increases that have been put in place.”

Craig Renney, who is Council of Trade Unions chief economist and policy director and also a Labour candidate in the upcoming election, said it was likely to mean that more low-income people opted out of KiwiSaver. “If you’re struggling with the cost of living, 1 percent on your salary is quite a lot.”

He said a better solution would be an Australia-style system where it was up to the employer to cover the cost of superannuation savings and employees who did not take it up missed out, rather than receiving it in their pay packets.

Meanwhile, a survey by ANZ showed a third of KiwiSaver members intended to stick with the new 3.5 percent default rate when it took effect. Another 21 percent would contirbute more if their employer matched it.

Only 10 percent intended to request a temporary reduction.

Sign up for Money with Susan Edmunds, a weekly newsletter covering all the things that affect how we make, spend and invest money.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/higher-kiwisaver-contributions-may-mean-lower-pay-rises/

Posted on

Police seek help as 5-year-old boy found dead in water

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police are continuing to appeal to the public for information as they investigate the “water-related” death of a five-year-old boy in Napier.

The boy went missing around the Westshore area on Thursday, 5 February, between 6pm and 8.30pm.

He was found dead in the water off the Esplanade at Westshore, at around 1.30am on Friday, 6 February.

Police said they want to hear from anyone who saw an unattended child.

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

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

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/20/police-seek-help-as-5-year-old-boy-found-dead-in-water/

Posted on

Liam Lawson completes Formula 1 preparation with top 10 finish

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand F1 driver Liam Lawson. ERIC ALONSO / AFP

New Zealand driver Liam Lawson has completed his official testing ahead of the new Formula 1 season.

Lawson spent the first few hours of his final Bahrain pre-season test in the garage before his Racing Bulls team was able to get their new 2026 car out on the track.

He then managed to get through 106 laps, the fourth most of the day.

The 24-year-old was 10th fastest, 1.7 seconds behind the quickest, Kimi Antonelli in a Mercedes.

In last week’s first testing session, Lawson [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/586732/issues-for-liam-lawson-at-f1-testing-something-i-haven-t-mastered-yet admitted to some struggles in the new specification car, but this week did say that he was more comfortable and happy with the progress they were making.

The McLaren of Oscar Piastri was second quickest, followed by Max Verstappen, who got through the most laps today with 139.

New Zealand F1 driver Liam Lawson during testing in Bahrain, 2026. ALBERTO VIMERCATI / AFP

Lawson’s team-mate Arvid Lindblad will have use of the car on the third and final day of testing in Bahrain.

Aston Martin and new team Cadillac struggled with pace today.

There are significant changes in 2026 with the cars smaller and lighter and no longer running DRS, while half of their power is now electrically generated.

The first round of the 2026 championships is in Australia on 8 March.

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/2026/02/20/liam-lawson-completes-formula-1-preparation-with-top-10-finish/

Posted on

Arrests made, Northcote incident

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Superintendent Tony Hill, Canterbury District Commander:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Injury woes for Phoenix women and men

Source: Radio New Zealand

Lara Wall of Wellington Phoenix. www.photosport.nz

There are major injury concerns for both the women’s and men’s Wellington Phoenix sides.

They have lost two New Zealand internationals to serious injuries ahead of their respective round 18 A-League matches.

Football Ferns fullback Lara Wall and All Whites attacking midfielder Sarpreet Singh will both be sidelined for up to eight weeks.

The Phoenix women have had more than their fair share of injuries this season.

Wall tore her left calf in the defeat to Central Coast Mariners at Porirua Park on Sunday, while Singh injured the medial collateral ligament (MCL) in his left knee in his much-anticipated Phoenix return against Western Sydney last Friday night.

Sarpreet Singh waves to fans. www.photosport.nz

As well as potentially sidelining her for the remainder of the Ninja A-League regular season, the calf injury unfortunately rules Wall out of the Ferns’ upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifiers in the Solomon Islands.

Singh is likely to miss the All Whites matches against Finland and Chile at Eden Park at the end of next month, on top of the Phoenix men’s next five Isuzu UTE A-League matches.

All Whites fullback Tim Payne has also been ruled out of Saturday’s derby against Auckland FC with a hamstring injury.

The second-placed Phoenix women play at Melbourne Victory on Friday night.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/20/injury-woes-for-phoenix-women-and-men/

Posted on

North Brave duo set to debut for White Ferns

Source: Radio New Zealand

Nensi Patel of the Northern Brave. www.photosport.nz

There are two new players in the White Ferns squad named to take on Zimbabwe later this month.

Northern Brave duo Nensi Patel and Kayley Knight have been included for the series, which will be the first between the two nations and includes three T20I’s and three ODI’s.

Off-spinning all-rounder Patel returns to the group after being centrally contracted for the 2022-23 season.

She was the Brave’s top run-scorer in the Super Smash this summer and second-equal wicket-taker alongside Knight.

Knight, a former New Zealand under-19 representative, is available for just the T20 series, with Molly Penfold to replace her in the ODI squad.

“We’ve prioritised players that could make the T20 World Cup squad in June, whilst also providing international exposure to high-potential talent whose skillsets align with long-term White Ferns planning,” said coach Ben Sawyer.

“Nensi and Kayley have both been solid performers over the last 12-18 months, so it’s really pleasing for them to get this opportunity.”

The squad will be captained by Melie Kerr in her first assignment as New Zealand’s permanent captain.

Suzie Bates (quadricep) and Eden Carson (elbow) were not considered for selection due to their respective injuries, and Lea Tahuhu was not considered for the T20I squad due to physical preparation planning for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in June.

Sophie Devine, who is on a casual contract with NZC, was not available for this series.

Northern Brave Women’s Kayley Knight bowls. DJ Mills / PHOTOSPORT

WHITE FERNS Squad v Zimbabwe

Flora Devonshire Central Hinds

Izzy Gaze Auckland Hearts

Maddy Green Auckland Hearts

Brooke Halliday Auckland Hearts

Bree Illing Auckland Hearts

Polly Inglis Sparks (T20I only)

Jess Kerr Wellington Blaze

Melie Kerr Wellington Blaze

Kayley Knight* Northern Brave (T20I only)

Emma McLeod Central Hinds (ODI only)

Rosemary Mair Central Hinds

Nensi Patel* Northern Brave

Molly Penfold Auckland Hearts (ODI only)

Georgia Plimmer Wellington Blaze

Izzy Sharp** Canterbury Magicians

Series against Zimbabwe

Wed 25 Feb: 1st T20, 7:15pm, Hamilton

Fri 27 Feb: 2nd T20, 7:15pm, Hamilton

Sun 1 March: 3rd T20, 1:15pm, Hamilton

Thurs 5 March: 1st ODI, 11am, Dunedin

Sun 8 March: 2nd ODI, 11am, Dunedin

Wed 11 March, 3rd ODI, 11am, Dunedin

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/20/north-brave-duo-set-to-debut-for-white-ferns/