Category: LiveNews

Posted on

Takitimu North Link Stage 2 Fast-tracked

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notes to editors:

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

Fast-track by the numbers:

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

Fast-track projects approved by expert panels:

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

 

Expert panels have been appointed for:

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Media OutReach Newswire Further Strengthens Singapore and Asia Pacific Reach with Strategic AsiaOne Partnership

Source: Media Outreach

Agreement with the Singapore digital media platform reinforces Media OutReach Newswire’s role as the leading global newswire for Asia Pacific

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – Media OutReach Newswire, Asia Pacific’s first and only global newswire, has entered into a strategic content partnership with AsiaOne, one of Singapore’s most prominent digital media platforms.

This partnership means that Media OutReach Newswire will be the first newswire to provide guaranteed online news posting on the AsiaOne website. The collaboration further solidifies Media OutReach Newswire’s status as the only global newswire offering guaranteed online news posting on two leading digital media platforms, AsiaOne and CNA, for all Singapore press release distributions.

The partnership follows recent high-profile collaborations with the Asia News Network (ANN), the consortium of leading Asia Pacific news media, and CNA – marking a period of rapid strategic growth. Once again, a leading media outlet has chosen to launch their partnership with Media OutReach before any other newswire, which demonstrates the deep trust it has earned within the global media ecosystem.

With this addition, Media OutReach Newswire’s Singapore distribution now guarantees online news posting on trusted news platforms AsiaOne, CNA, MoneyFM89.3 and Vulcan Post, as well as influential lifestyle media like Alvinology, Asia Journeys and SuperAdrianMe. This is alongside Asia News Network (ANN), a grouping of 20 leading news sites across Asia Pacific.

Ms Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire, said: “We are pleased to announce this partnership with AsiaOne, a digital news pioneer that has been a trusted voice in Singapore for 30 years. As the first global newswire they have chosen to partner with, this collaboration reflects the high level of credibility we have built. Together with our existing partnerships with CNA and ANN, this reaffirms Media OutReach Newswire’s role as the definitive global newswire for Singapore, Southeast Asia, and the wider Asia Pacific region.”

Media OutReach Newswire remains the only global newswire that guarantees online news posting exclusively on trusted, authentic media sites. This guaranteed presence on authoritative news sites like AsiaOne, with its high domain trust and over 5.5 million* monthly visits, provides brands with a significant boost in AI discoverability in SEO and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). This ensures that client news is not only seen by human readers but is also accurately surfaced and cited by AI-generated answers from leading Large Language Models (LLMs).

As the leading global newswire for Asia Pacific, Media OutReach Newswire is trusted by Asian corporations, SMEs, and government agencies to distribute their news globally. In addition to offering the most extensive distribution network and guaranteed news visibility, the newswire owns a proprietary international journalist database. This provides a robust global news reach spanning the Asia Pacific, USA, Canada, UK, and Europe, as well as Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa.

Its total communications solutions empower strategic communicators and PR professionals to demonstrate tangible success through targeted news distribution and direct journalist access, as well as ready-to-use reporting and campaign intelligence with ROI designed for C-suite presentations.

*Source: Similarweb

Hashtag: #MediaOutReachNewswire

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/media-outreach-newswire-further-strengthens-singapore-and-asia-pacific-reach-with-strategic-asiaone-partnership/

Posted on

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

Source: New Zealand Police

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

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

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

Key findings from the Police Module saw: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the NZCVS 

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

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

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

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

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

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

“Hope is not a plan,” Luxon said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on

Major fire at automotive shop in Ponsonby

Source: Radio New Zealand

A major fire at an automotive shop in the Auckland suburb of Ponsonby has been extinguished.

Assistant Commander Kenton Rusbridge said crews are dampening down hotspots.

Earlier, the fire caused concern due to it’s proximity to a Z petrol station.

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

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

A fire at Ponsonby Automotive on Williamson Avenue sent black smoke into the air. Jess Andrews

The Domus apartment complex and several nearby businesses were evacuated.

Residents reported hearing explosions and said the air smells acidic and metallic.

Firecrews from as far away as Otara attended the scene.

Smoke can be seen billowing above Ponsonby. Supplied

Auckland Pet Hospital on nearby Pollen St was also evacuated.

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

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/2026/03/19/major-fire-at-automotive-shop-in-ponsonby/

Posted on

New survey shows drop in crime

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Justice

Headline: New survey shows drop in crime

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the New Zealand Crime and Victims Survey

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

High resolution infographics from the NZCVS are available on request.

← Back to the news

This page was last updated:

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Charter school students attended more than state students in 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

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

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

“Hope is not a plan,” Luxon said.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on

Black smoke seen rising from Auckland suburb of Ponsonby

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Auckland Pet Hospital on nearby Pollen St has been evacuated.

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

Fire and Emergency has been approached for comment.

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

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

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

Posted on

Football Ferns named for World Cup Oceania Qualifiers Finals in NZ

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Full squad

Liz Anton

Hannah Blake

Kelli Brown

Claudia Bunge

Milly Clegg

Victoria Esson

Michaela Foster

Ally Green

Maya Hahn

Jacqui Hand

Deven Jackson

Grace Jale

Katie Kitching

Charlotte Lancaster

Meikayla Moore

Emma Pijnenburg

Gabi Rennie

Indiah-Paige Riley

Alina Santos

Rebekah Stott

Kate Taylor

Pia Vlok

Grace Wisnewski

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

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

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

Posted on

How do I make the most of my mince?

Source: Radio New Zealand

Usually considered a low-cost staple for families, the price of mince has recorded the biggest annual increase since data began.

Beef mince is up 23.2 percent, to an average of $24.46 a kilogram – about $4.60 more than the same time in 2025.

Tauranga butcher Jason Pears knows budgets have been tight for his customers for some while, but says this is the worst it’s ever been.

Debbie and Jason Pears from Kiwi Fresh Meats.

Supplied

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/how-do-i-make-the-most-of-my-mince/

Posted on

In Pictures: The people of Polyfest

Source: Radio New Zealand

This week, the Manukau Sports Bowl has been transformed into a multi-stage cultural hub for 11,000 performers from 73 high schools.

Participants tell RNZ the Polyfest festival is a celebration of cultural diversity as well as an opportunity to learn.

Faith Fomai from Southern Cross Campus says Polyfest is about “learning your roots, staying cool, also just be connected and be one”.

Southern Cross Campus students at ASB Polyfest.

RNZ Pacific / Coco Lance

Indian students Pierah Kohli, Aashritha Vathsavaya and Sonam Chaduvula of Maclean College

Pierah Kohli, Aashritha Vathsavaya and Sonam Chaduvula of Maclean college.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

Lauryn Wattam and Hingano Hill-Willis of Wesley College, representing the Cook Islands

Cook Island performers Lauryn Wattam and Hingano Hill-Willis of Wesley College.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

A Samoan dance performance by Alfriston College

Samoan performers Tofiga Maletino and Omeka Fau from Alfriston College.

RNZ

A Samoan dance performance by Alfriston College.

Nick Monro / RNZ

A performance by Samoan students from Alfriston College.

RNZ

Samoan performers from Alfriston College.

RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton

Metua-Ani Raea-Araitia and Hillary Tiro, visiting from the Cook Islands, attended with a group from Tereora College

Metua-Ani Raea-Araitia and Hillary Tiro, visiting from the Cook Islands, attended with a group from Tereora College.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

A group from Manurewa High School, including Ayveah Mizziebo, who says Polyfest is “a way to learn about my culture outside of my home, my church, my family, and to embrace other people’s cultures as well”.

“Polyfest is a way to learn about my culture outside of my home, my church, my family, and to embrace other people’s cultures as well” – Ayveah Mizziebo.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

Bailey li, a Korean student from St Cuthbert’s College, says Polyfest is an opportunity to learn about “other cultures and their beauty”.

“To me, Polyfest means cultural diversity, and it allows everyone to perform their culture, represent other cultures, as well as be aware of other cultures and their beauty” – Bailey li.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

Breona Nassau and Joseph Tulua from Tangaroa College say Polyfest is an opportunity to see many cultures in one festival

Breona Nassau and Joseph Tulua from Tangaroa College at ASB Polyfest.

RNZ Pacific / Coco Lance

A group from Otahuhu College

Otahuhu College students at ASB Polyfest – day one

RNZ Pacific / Coco Lance

A group of Chinese students from St Cuthbert’s College say Polyfest is a celebration of cultural pride and diversity

A group of Chinese students from St Cuthberts College say Polyfest is a celebration of cultural pride and diversity.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

A Chinese student from St Cuthbert’s College demonstrates a traditional dance with fans.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

Fijian students from Baradene College of The Sacred Heart

A group of students from Auckland’s Baradene College of The Sacred Heart.

Tiana Haxton / RNZ

Students from Baradene College

RNZ Pacific / Coco Lance

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/in-pictures-the-people-of-polyfest/

Posted on

GP stops uploading patient notes to MyIndici as a precaution

Source: Radio New Zealand

MyIndici said it hasn’t been compromised. 123rf

A Wellington GP clinic has stopped uploading consultation notes to patient portal MyIndici as an extra layer of protection for patients’ data.

MyIndici said it hasn’t been compromised, but there have been two high-profile security breaches involving health data at other companies in the past few months – ManageMyHealth, and then MediMap.

Newlands Medical Centre, in response to questions from RNZ, said: “Whilst we have no concerns re Indici security, we made a decision to discontinue open notes as an added layer of protection for the security of our patients’ data. We will not be providing any further comment.”

But Valentia Technologies, the company behind patient portal MyIndici and the associated practice management system Indici, said it had not experienced any breach or security issue.

A spokesperson said the ability to control access to patient notes at either a practice-wide or individual patient level had been a long-standing feature of the Indici system, and prior to the news of the ManageMyHealth breach, some GPs already had their systems set up so patients wouldn’t see their notes on the portal.

Has your GP stopped uploading notes to its patient portal? Email me on kate.green@rnz.co.nz

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/gp-stops-uploading-patient-notes-to-myindici-as-a-precaution/

Posted on

Watch: Students share what Polyfest means to them

Source: Radio New Zealand

Students performing at this weeks ASB Polyfest say the festival is a celebration of their diverse identities.

More than 11,000 performers from 73 schools are set to grace the stage over the next three days.

Polyfest is the world’s largest secondary school Pasifika cultural festival held annually since the late 1970s.

For Baradene College students Izzy Porter and Marlo O’Hagan representing Fiji, the event means “sharing our cultures” and “being able to represent our families and our ancestors on the stage”.

Baradene Fiji group at the ASB Polyfest 2026. 18 March 2026 RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton

For Manurewa High School’s Ayveah Mizziebo, “It’s a way to learn about my culture outside of my home, my church, my family, and to embrace other people’s cultures as well.”

Manurewa High School at the ASB Polyfest 2026. 18 March 2026 RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton

AUT student representative Lolomanaia Filia’i said Polyfest was all about identity.

“Finding who you are through culture, through food, through dance, through music.”

Tangaroa College student Breona Nassau said “regardless of whether or not you are the culture that you’re performing for, just representing that, and you know doing your best”.

Southern Cross Campus student Faith Fomai said the event was about “learning your roots, staying put, like, stick to your roots, our voices and our culture”.

St Cuthbert’s College student Bailey Li said Polyfest meant cultural diversity.

Bailey li, a Korean student from St Cuthbert’s College, says Polyfest means cultural diversity. 18 March 2026 RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton

“It allows everyone to perform their culture, represent other cultures, as well as be aware of other cultures and their beauty.”

For Iris Wen it was about “getting together and celebrating different cultures with different causes”.

A Chinese fan dance by St Cuthbert’s School at the ASB Polyfest 2026. RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/watch-students-share-what-polyfest-means-to-them/

Posted on

Serious Fraud Office looking at Chatham Islands Council spending

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The report was tabled in Parliament last Thursday.

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

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

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

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

Interim council chief executive Bob Penter declined to be interviewed.

Paul Eagle has been contacted for comment.

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

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

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

Posted on

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

Source: Radio New Zealand

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Posted on

Waihoehoe Road Upgrade driving forward

Source: New Zealand Government

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Notes to Editor: 

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

MIL OSI

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

Posted on

Body found in search for man missing in Lake Manapouri

Source: Radio New Zealand

The man fell overboard into the lake last Saturday.

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

Last Saturday, around 6.15pm, police were told a man had fallen overboard from a vessel 1km offshore in Lake Manapouri.

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

Police Search and Rescue and the Police Dive Squad, assisted by the Royal New Zealand Navy, conducted extensive searches of the lake and surrounding areas over the last few days.

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

Sergeant Alun Griffiths said officers have offered their condolences to the man’s family.

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

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/body-found-in-search-for-man-missing-in-lake-manapouri/

Posted on

Clark Laidlaw extends time as Hurricanes head coach

Source: Radio New Zealand

Clark Laidlaw head coach of the Hurricanes before Super Rugby Pacific – Hurricanes v Chiefs at Sky Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand on Saturday 13 April 2024. Photosport / Elias Rodriguez

Head coach Clark Laidlaw will continue to guide the Hurricanes after re-signing with the franchise to the end of the next Super Rugby season.

Laidlaw’s contract renewal extends his tenure as head coach of the men’s team to a fourth season since joining the Hurricanes from the All Blacks Sevens ahead of the 2024 campaign.

New Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

The 48-year-old has led the Hurricanes to a semi-final and a qualifying final over the past two seasons, and has guided the team to the top of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific standings after five rounds.

Laidlaw said he’s thoroughly enjoyed his time at the Hurricanes.

“It’s a huge honour and privilege to continue serving the club. I really feel like I’m at home here. I love being involved with the team. We play a brand of rugby that really fits with my thinking on the game,” Laidlaw said.

“We’re building a squad and a club with new owners and new leadership, and I feel I really align with how they see it, so that was a big part of my decision to stay. The identity of the team and the way we want to play the game is something I really align with as well.

“Some days you feel like you’re only getting started. I’m a couple years in, but I still think there’s loads to develop, loads for me to be better at, loads for the team to grow into, and this is the place I want to do that.”

Prior to his appointment as Hurricanes head coach, the former Scottish sevens international – who became a New Zealand citizen late last year – had been an assistant coach at the club between 2013 and 2015.

Laidlaw has previously coached the All Blacks Sevens and has had roles with London Irish, New Zealand U20, Samoa, Taranaki, and Wellington sevens.

He won the 2018 Sevens World Cup, 2018 Commonwealth Games, 2020 World Sevens Series, and a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics while All Blacks Sevens head coach.

Interim Hurricanes chief executive Tony Philp was thrilled to secure Laidlaw’s services for another season.

“We’re excited that Clark has signed on with the Hurricanes until 2027,” Philp said.

“He embodies our values and has a unique ability to get the best out of people. Clark cares first, which fosters an environment of deep connection that then enables performances to be proud of.

“Having him on board for another year will ensure our culture deepens.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/clark-laidlaw-extends-time-as-hurricanes-head-coach/

Posted on

Auckland’s annual plan – have you given feedback yet?

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council’s plan for 2026/2027 is out for public feedback now, setting out the council’s services, activities and spend for the year ahead.
Aucklanders are encouraged to share their views by Sunday 29 March.

 

The Annual Plan 2026/2027 prioritises transport, water and local boards responding to their local communities’ needs.

 

To deliver all activities, $3.9 billion will be invested into vital infrastructure across Auckland and $5.3 billion dedicated to essential services, such as pools, libraries, animal management, public transport and waste collection.

 

The consultation also asks for views on Auckland long-term – helping inform transport plans, water service strategies and the Long-term Plan 2027-2037.

 

Budget and Performance Committee chair, councillor Greg Sayers, encourages Aucklanders to get involved in the consultation.

 

 “The Annual Plan consultation is how elected representatives hear what Aucklanders think about the plan for the year ahead and any hot topics or priorities they need to consider, as the Auckland Council heads to decision-making in June,” says Cr Sayers.

“The plan for 2026/2027 includes Auckland-wide priorities and our local board plans for the year. There is a range of ways to check out the plan for 2026/2027 and how you can feedback – every piece of feedback counts.”

What’s in the plan?

Auckland Council group chief financial officer Ross Tucker says a range of highlights will be delivered by the council during 2026/2027.

“This includes the opening of the City Rail Link (CRL), which will deliver benefits region-wide, such as more frequent trains, new routes across town on a single train and more direct journeys into the city,” says Mr Tucker.

The CRL will be the centrepiece of significant improvements in transport connectivity, capacity and levels of service across Auckland’s integrated transport system, and double the number of people who can reach the city centre by train in 30 minutes or less.

“We also have vital progress on infrastructure such as the Central Interceptor, delivered by Watercare, which will reduce wastewater overflows into central Auckland waterways. $500 million is also being invested by Watercare into a water and wastewater renewals to replace ageing pipes and treatment plant infrastructure. This fundamental work sets up the region to better manage growth and reduce risk of system issues.”

Watercare is also progressing an upgrade of Wellsford’s wastewater treatment plant and a $450 million wastewater programme at Snells Beach/ Warkworth.

Urban development programmes and city centre regeneration will continue, including completing public spaces at CRL stations and further development of High Street and Te Toangaroa.

“The plan also seeks feedback on what Auckland’s 21 local boards are planning for the coming year – this includes priorities for local communities and key services Aucklanders will receive in their backyard,” says Mr Tucker.

What about rates?

As a big investment for Auckland in 2026, the CRL is in the key driver of the 7.9 per cent rates increase next year (for the average value residential property), as the council manages additional CRL costs (ownership and operational costs).

From 2027/2028, the average rates increase is forecast to be no more than 3.5 per cent for the rest of the Long-term Plan 2024-2034.

For the average household, annual rates are proposed to increase by around $320 next year – from $4055 in 2025/2026 to $4375 in 2026/2027. This is a total weekly rates cost of around $84, or $6.16 more a week (based on an average $1.28m capital value residential property).

Ratepayers can find out estimated rates for their property in 2026/2027, see the online rates guide.

Targeted rates changes are proposed, including the Waitākere Rural Sewerage Scheme; a local services targeted rate for Mangere-Otahuhu and the Ōtara-Papatoetoe local boards; and two business improvement district (BID) changes.

Among proposed fee updates is the residential parking permit operated by Auckland Transport. The residential permit fee has not been amended since 2013. The annual $70 fee is proposed to increase to $114 per year, to better recover the cost of administering and managing the process.

The Governing Body and local boards will consider public feedback before councillors agree the final Annual Plan that will be underway from 1 July 2026.

We want to know what Aucklanders think about the plan – visit akhaveyoursay.nz/ourplan now. Consultation closes Sunday 29 March 2026.

Get involved by Sunday 29 March
Events

There are a range of events happening across the region where you can talk to some of the Auckland Council team in person. Head to akhaveyoursay.nz/ourplan to find an event that works for you.

Supporting Aucklanders to have their say

There is increased flexibility and accessibility in how Aucklanders can give feedback. Alongside translations into NZSL, Easy Read, large print and braille, there are more ways for people to have their say. 

akhaveyoursay.nz/ourplan 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/19/aucklands-annual-plan-have-you-given-feedback-yet/