Category: LiveNews

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Remains found in Wellington centuries old

Source: New Zealand Police

Human remains found in a garden on Wellington’s south coast last year have been determined to be centuries old.

A homeowner discovered the remains in his garden in Ōwhiro Bay on June 22, 2025.

Detective Constable Sarah Steed says radiocarbon dating has been conducted on the remains, which show them to be from the 1600s-1700s, and possibly pre-European.

“This information will now be supplied to the Coroner for consideration,” Detective Constable Steed says.

“Consultation will take place with local iwi to arrange a suitable burial site, once the remains are release by the Coroner.”

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/23/remains-found-in-wellington-centuries-old/

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Nailed it: Police clean up following tip off

Source: New Zealand Police

Police in Counties Manukau have been busy cleaning up and returning a pile of stolen goods following a tip off from a member of the public.

On Friday afternoon, Police patrolling the Counties Manukau West area were alerted to an address of interest in Mangere Bridge by a member of the public who reported he’d had several items taken from his vehicle in Pakuranga.

Counties Manukau West Area Commander, Inspector Dave Christoffersen, says one of the items belonging to the victim had a GPS, which lead to a property in Tima Lane.

“Units were in the area at the time and met with the victim, who had observed his items inside the address.

“A search of the property located multiple tools and other items, one of which was a GPS linked stolen nail gun.

“This lead to one person at the address being arrested and charged for receiving.”

Inspector Christoffersen says Police recovered the alleged stolen goods and have managed to return several to their rightful owner.

“This is a great example of members of the public reporting incidents when they happen, then following up with any helpful information that comes to hand.

“This allows the opportunity for Police to act and, as in this case, recover stolen property.

“I would like to acknowledge the community for their vigilance and reporting suspicious activity promptly to Police.”

A 37-year-old man was remanded in custody and will appear in Manukau District Court today charged with receives property.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/23/nailed-it-police-clean-up-following-tip-off/

Posted on

Prime Minister to host Tuvalu counterpart

Source: New Zealand Government

Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo will visit New Zealand this week, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced. 

“We share a warm and close partnership with Tuvalu, underpinned by strong development, cultural, economic, and people to people links,” Mr Luxon says.

“I look forward to discussing how we can deliver on our shared ambitions and regional priorities, and hearing about the Pre-COP31 Leaders’ Event Tuvalu is hosting in October.”

New Zealand has a long-standing development partnership with Tuvalu, including support for education, health, economic development and coastal resilience. 

While in New Zealand, Prime Minister Teo will meet Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters, Pacific Peoples Minister Dr Shane Reti and Climate Change Minister Simon Watts. He will also attend community events and engage with the Tuvaluan diaspora.

Prime Minister Teo’s visit to New Zealand will be his first official visit since he was elected Prime Minister in 2024. He will be accompanied by Tuvalu Foreign Minister Paulson Panapa and Tuvalu Minister for Transport, Energy, Communication and Innovation Simon Kofe.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/23/prime-minister-to-host-tuvalu-counterpart/

Posted on

State Highway 1, Towai closed following fire

Source: New Zealand Police

State Highway 1 in Towai has been closed in both directions following a vehicle fire.

Emergency services are responding to the fire, which was reported to Police at about 11.55am.

Motorists are being advised all lanes travelling north and south have been closed and to expect delays.

People are also advised to avoid the area until the scene is cleared.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/24/state-highway-1-towai-closed-following-fire/

Posted on

Watch live: Reserve Bank governor Anna Breman warns of higher inflation, lower growth

Source: Radio New Zealand

  • RBNZ governor says NZ is likely to see higher short-term inflation
  • Rates could rise if there are effects on medium-term inflation or inflation expectations
  • Economic growth likely to be dampened

The Reserve Bank governor is warning of higher inflation and weaker economic growth due to the Middle East crisis.

The Israel and United States-led war against Iran has sent global energy prices soaring due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and attacks on key energy infrastructure in the Gulf.

Economists had already warned of the inflationary impact facing the New Zealand economy.

In speech notes published on Tuesday, Reserve Bank (RBNZ) governor Dr Anna Breman echoed that sentiment.

“We are likely to see higher headline inflation over the near term, and somewhat weaker growth momentum,” Breman said.

Annual inflation was at 3.1 percent in the December quarter, above the RBNZ’s 1-3 percent target band.

The remarks come two weeks ahead of the RBNZ’s next monetary policy decision, where the Official Cash Rate is expected to remain on hold.

“A short-lived disruption and a temporary increase in petrol prices can – and should – be looked through from a monetary policy perspective if it is unlikely to have an impact on medium-term inflation outcomes,” Breman said.

“For this type of disruption, we would likely see higher inflation over the next few quarters, along with squeezed real incomes and demand.”

She said the peak impact of monetary policy on inflation took about six to nine quarters.

“So, tightening monetary policy in response to a short-lived disruption would only dampen growth without materially improving near-term inflation outcomes,” Breman said.

“If there are effects on medium-term inflation or inflation expectations, the appropriate policy response could be to increase interest rates to prevent these second round effects.”

Breman said “it is critical” for monetary policy to be forward-looking and focused on medium-term inflation pressures.

She said global supply chains were feeling the effects of the conflict, and it “will take time for the full effects of this shock on the global economy to play out”.

“We should try to avoid reacting too early to near-term inflation pressures that monetary policy can do little about – or reacting too late if above-target inflation becomes embedded in the economy.”

High near-term inflation, weaker growth

Breman said the higher short-term inflation spike would primarily be driven by higher petrol and diesel prices, which made up about 4 percent of the Consumer Price Index.

Higher fertiliser prices were another factor, and she believed it could take up to nine months to fully pass through to supermarket prices.

“Autumn fertiliser requirements are already on-hand in New Zealand, and fertiliser imports usually decrease over the winter months,” Dr Breman said.

“We expect fertiliser use to pick up for spring planting, which is when we may see more direct impacts on farms.”

Breman said the conflict meant New Zealand’s economic growth momentum would be “somewhat weaker” than the RBNZ’s previous assessments.

The bank’s February Monetary Policy Statement published forecasts of GDP growth of 1.1 percent in the March quarter, and 0.5 percent in the June quarter.

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/2026/03/24/watch-live-reserve-bank-governor-anna-breman-warns-of-higher-inflation-lower-growth/

Posted on

Auckland Council’s new advisory panels appointed

Source: Auckland Council

More than 100 members of Auckland’s advisory panels this week officially start an important role to enhance Auckland Council’s democratic structure.

Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed new and returning panel members onboard at a ceremony on 23 March, inviting them to help shape the direction of Auckland’s growth over the next three years and ensure it responds to the needs of all communities.

“Panels provide an opportunity for groups that make up Auckland’s diverse communities, to have a voice. There was a 35 per cent increase in the number of applicants for the advisory panels this term, which underpins the important role they play in our democracy,” says Mayor Brown.

“The access we will get to feedback from panels, about what they and their communities think, will build a more inclusive city.”

Since the council amalgamated in 2010, panel members have supported the Mayor, elected members and staff with feedback on regional strategy, policy decisions and provided valuable insight so that important perspectives are not overlooked.

Newly appointed Chief Liaison Councillor for the advisory panels, Dr Sarah Paterson-Hamlin, says exciting opportunities lie ahead with such a diverse range of talent and experience ready to share their views.

“These panel members represent an incredible wealth of expertise and lived experience of Tāmaki Makaurau from perspectives that otherwise may struggle to be heard,” says Cr Paterson-Hamlin.

“This is a group of high-achieving and extremely well-qualified advisors. They represent the length and breadth of the region as well as passion and knowledge for the sectors they will be advising on. Their insight will be of great value to the staff and elected members of Auckland Council as we consider big decisions for the future of our amazing city, ensuring all kinds of ways of being in this city are heard and included.”

All 57 returning and 63 new panel members will meet regularly throughout the year to consider projects, policies and decisions the city is facing, with the draft annual plan first on their list.

Barry de Geest, interim chair of the Disability Advisory Panel in his second term, says a willingness within the council and from the Mayor to listen to panel feedback is what makes the relationship effective.

“It makes a real difference when this work is genuinely valued,” Mr de Geest says.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenges ahead and the opportunity to keep making a difference. It’s always valuable working alongside council staff and having them actively seek our perspectives on how decisions impact disabled people. That collaboration matters.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/24/auckland-councils-new-advisory-panels-appointed/

Posted on

Watch live: Reserve Bank governor Anna Breman warns of higher inflation, lower growth

Source: Radio New Zealand

  • RBNZ governor says NZ is likely to see higher short-term inflation
  • Rates could rise if there are effects on medium-term inflation or inflation expectations
  • Economic growth likely to be dampened

The Reserve Bank governor is warning of higher inflation and weaker economic growth due to the Middle East crisis.

The Israel and United States-led war against Iran has sent global energy prices soaring due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and attacks on key energy infrastructure in the Gulf.

Economists had already warned of the inflationary impact facing the New Zealand economy.

In speech notes published on Tuesday, Reserve Bank (RBNZ) governor Dr Anna Breman echoed that sentiment.

“We are likely to see higher headline inflation over the near term, and somewhat weaker growth momentum,” Breman said.

Annual inflation was at 3.1 percent in the December quarter, above the RBNZ’s 1-3 percent target band.

The remarks come two weeks ahead of the RBNZ’s next monetary policy decision, where the Official Cash Rate is expected to remain on hold.

“A short-lived disruption and a temporary increase in petrol prices can – and should – be looked through from a monetary policy perspective if it is unlikely to have an impact on medium-term inflation outcomes,” Breman said.

“For this type of disruption, we would likely see higher inflation over the next few quarters, along with squeezed real incomes and demand.”

She said the peak impact of monetary policy on inflation took about six to nine quarters.

“So, tightening monetary policy in response to a short-lived disruption would only dampen growth without materially improving near-term inflation outcomes,” Breman said.

“If there are effects on medium-term inflation or inflation expectations, the appropriate policy response could be to increase interest rates to prevent these second round effects.”

Breman said “it is critical” for monetary policy to be forward-looking and focused on medium-term inflation pressures.

She said global supply chains were feeling the effects of the conflict, and it “will take time for the full effects of this shock on the global economy to play out”.

“We should try to avoid reacting too early to near-term inflation pressures that monetary policy can do little about – or reacting too late if above-target inflation becomes embedded in the economy.”

High near-term inflation, weaker growth

Breman said the higher short-term inflation spike would primarily be driven by higher petrol and diesel prices, which made up about 4 percent of the Consumer Price Index.

Higher fertiliser prices were another factor, and she believed it could take up to nine months to fully pass through to supermarket prices.

“Autumn fertiliser requirements are already on-hand in New Zealand, and fertiliser imports usually decrease over the winter months,” Dr Breman said.

“We expect fertiliser use to pick up for spring planting, which is when we may see more direct impacts on farms.”

Breman said the conflict meant New Zealand’s economic growth momentum would be “somewhat weaker” than the RBNZ’s previous assessments.

The bank’s February Monetary Policy Statement published forecasts of GDP growth of 1.1 percent in the March quarter, and 0.5 percent in the June quarter.

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/2026/03/24/watch-live-reserve-bank-governor-anna-breman-warns-of-higher-inflation-lower-growth/

Posted on

Auckland Council’s new advisory panels appointed

Source: Auckland Council

More than 100 members of Auckland’s advisory panels this week officially start an important role to enhance Auckland Council’s democratic structure.

Mayor Wayne Brown welcomed new and returning panel members onboard at a ceremony on 23 March, inviting them to help shape the direction of Auckland’s growth over the next three years and ensure it responds to the needs of all communities.

“Panels provide an opportunity for groups that make up Auckland’s diverse communities, to have a voice. There was a 35 per cent increase in the number of applicants for the advisory panels this term, which underpins the important role they play in our democracy,” says Mayor Brown.

“The access we will get to feedback from panels, about what they and their communities think, will build a more inclusive city.”

Since the council amalgamated in 2010, panel members have supported the Mayor, elected members and staff with feedback on regional strategy, policy decisions and provided valuable insight so that important perspectives are not overlooked.

Newly appointed Chief Liaison Councillor for the advisory panels, Dr Sarah Paterson-Hamlin, says exciting opportunities lie ahead with such a diverse range of talent and experience ready to share their views.

“These panel members represent an incredible wealth of expertise and lived experience of Tāmaki Makaurau from perspectives that otherwise may struggle to be heard,” says Cr Paterson-Hamlin.

“This is a group of high-achieving and extremely well-qualified advisors. They represent the length and breadth of the region as well as passion and knowledge for the sectors they will be advising on. Their insight will be of great value to the staff and elected members of Auckland Council as we consider big decisions for the future of our amazing city, ensuring all kinds of ways of being in this city are heard and included.”

All 57 returning and 63 new panel members will meet regularly throughout the year to consider projects, policies and decisions the city is facing, with the draft annual plan first on their list.

Barry de Geest, interim chair of the Disability Advisory Panel in his second term, says a willingness within the council and from the Mayor to listen to panel feedback is what makes the relationship effective.

“It makes a real difference when this work is genuinely valued,” Mr de Geest says.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenges ahead and the opportunity to keep making a difference. It’s always valuable working alongside council staff and having them actively seek our perspectives on how decisions impact disabled people. That collaboration matters.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/24/auckland-councils-new-advisory-panels-appointed/

Posted on

Live: Government’s fuel crisis relief package unveiled

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis are set to reveal the details of a support package aimed at helping Kiwis through the ongoing fuel cost crisis.

Willis has hinted it would be targeted towards low- and middle-income families.

There has been speculation it will involve adjustments to Working for Families, including the In-Work and Independent Earner tax credits.

Petrol prices in some locations have reached $4 a litre for premium, while diesel is up more than $1 a litre in the past month, Gaspy data shows.

About 20 percent of the world’s supply usually transits through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has cut off in retaliation over the US-Israel attack.

RNZ will be streaming the announcement from 12.30pm and blogging the updates as they happen. Refresh the page if you cannot see the video at the top of this page.

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/2026/03/24/live-governments-fuel-crisis-relief-package-unveiled/

Posted on

Fuel prices to stay high for at least 100 days, officials tell Labour

Source: Radio New Zealand

Labour leader Chris Hipkins. RNZ / Mark Papalii

It will be 100 days of hiked up fuel prices at the pump even if the conflict in the Middle East was to end today, according to government officials.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins and finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds were briefed by officials from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the mega-ministry, MBIE, on Tuesday morning.

“They indicated to us they’re expecting, and the government is expecting this to go on for months … that the escalated price in fuel is going to go on for months,” Hipkins told media on his way to caucus.

The officials were asked to brief the Opposition and gave a number of 100 days when asked how long the pain at the pump would continue beyond the conflict ending.

Hipkins said there were a number of questions officials were unable to answer.

“They weren’t able to tell us anything about the changes in fuel specifications that they agreed to yesterday, they couldn’t tell us what that actually means in practice, they weren’t able to tell us how much storage there might be available, they weren’t able to tell us what might trigger an increase in the government’s alert level framework,” he said.

“We’re very much relying on publicly available information.”

Hipkins used that as his defence for not having an alternative plan for what Labour would do to help New Zealanders feeling the pinch, if it were in government.

He ruled out any wage subsidy support for employees but has indicated Labour would go further than the government in other support.

However, when pressed on what that means he was unwilling to give details.

The Prime Minister and Finance Minister Nicola Willis are due to announce a “temporary, timely, and targeted” support package at Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.

Later this week Willis is expected to give an update on the national fuel plan and what the various alert levels would practically mean for New Zealanders.

*RNZ will be streaming the fuel support announcement from 12.30pm and blogging the updates 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/2026/03/24/fuel-prices-to-stay-high-for-at-least-100-days-officials-tell-labour/

Posted on

Two days of sailing cancelled for one Bluebridge Cook Strait ferry amid technical fault

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Bluebridge ferry Connemara. RNZ / Bill Hickman

Bluebridge has cancelled a further two days’ worth of sailings for one of its Cook Strait ferries due to a technical fault.

The fault on the Connemara was found on Saturday and stopped sailing for the weekend.

The company has now cancelled the ship’s trips between Wellington and Picton on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Bluebridge website said safety was its highest priority.

“As a result, unfortunately the following sailings are cancelled while the ship awaits regulatory requirements to resume sailing.”

The cancelled sailings on Tuesday are Picton-Wellington 2pm and Wellington-Picton 8.30pm, and on Wednesday, Picton-Wellington 2.30am, and Wellington-Picton 8.15am.

Customers are being told by email and text messages but BlueBridge said there were limited re-booking options.

“Standby lists across subsequent sailings will be operating from each port, for affected customers to be added to,” Bluebridge said.

Sailings from the same ferry were also cancelled earlier this month because of a technical fault.

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/2026/03/24/two-days-of-sailing-cancelled-for-one-bluebridge-cook-strait-ferry-amid-technical-fault/

Posted on

Fuel prices to stay high for at least 100 days, officials tell Labour

Source: Radio New Zealand

Labour leader Chris Hipkins. RNZ / Mark Papalii

It will be 100 days of hiked up fuel prices at the pump even if the conflict in the Middle East was to end today, according to government officials.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins and finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds were briefed by officials from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and the mega-ministry, MBIE, on Tuesday morning.

“They indicated to us they’re expecting, and the government is expecting this to go on for months … that the escalated price in fuel is going to go on for months,” Hipkins told media on his way to caucus.

The officials were asked to brief the Opposition and gave a number of 100 days when asked how long the pain at the pump would continue beyond the conflict ending.

Hipkins said there were a number of questions officials were unable to answer.

“They weren’t able to tell us anything about the changes in fuel specifications that they agreed to yesterday, they couldn’t tell us what that actually means in practice, they weren’t able to tell us how much storage there might be available, they weren’t able to tell us what might trigger an increase in the government’s alert level framework,” he said.

“We’re very much relying on publicly available information.”

Hipkins used that as his defence for not having an alternative plan for what Labour would do to help New Zealanders feeling the pinch, if it were in government.

He ruled out any wage subsidy support for employees but has indicated Labour would go further than the government in other support.

However, when pressed on what that means he was unwilling to give details.

The Prime Minister and Finance Minister Nicola Willis are due to announce a “temporary, timely, and targeted” support package at Parliament on Tuesday afternoon.

Later this week Willis is expected to give an update on the national fuel plan and what the various alert levels would practically mean for New Zealanders.

*RNZ will be streaming the fuel support announcement from 12.30pm and blogging the updates 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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/24/fuel-prices-to-stay-high-for-at-least-100-days-officials-tell-labour/

Posted on

Live: Government’s fuel crisis relief package unveiled

Source: Radio New Zealand

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis are set to reveal the details of a support package aimed at helping Kiwis through the ongoing fuel cost crisis.

Willis has hinted it would be targeted towards low- and middle-income families.

There has been speculation it will involve adjustments to Working for Families, including the In-Work and Independent Earner tax credits.

Petrol prices in some locations have reached $4 a litre for premium, while diesel is up more than $1 a litre in the past month, Gaspy data shows.

About 20 percent of the world’s supply usually transits through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has cut off in retaliation over the US-Israel attack.

RNZ will be streaming the announcement from 12.30pm and blogging the updates as they happen. Refresh the page if you cannot see the video at the top of this page.

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/2026/03/24/live-governments-fuel-crisis-relief-package-unveiled/

Posted on

ACT Party deputy and minister Brooke van Velden retires from politics

Source: Radio New Zealand

Brooke van Velden. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

ACT Party MP and minister Brooke van Velden has announced she won’t be seeking re-election in November.

She currently holds the seat of Tamaki, which she won in 2023.

More to come…

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/2026/03/24/act-party-deputy-and-minister-brooke-van-velden-retires-from-politics/

Posted on

Two days of sailing cancelled for one Bluebridge Cook Strait ferry amid technical fault

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Bluebridge ferry Connemara. RNZ / Bill Hickman

Bluebridge has cancelled a further two days’ worth of sailings for one of its Cook Strait ferries due to a technical fault.

The fault on the Connemara was found on Saturday and stopped sailing for the weekend.

The company has now cancelled the ship’s trips between Wellington and Picton on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The Bluebridge website said safety was its highest priority.

“As a result, unfortunately the following sailings are cancelled while the ship awaits regulatory requirements to resume sailing.”

The cancelled sailings on Tuesday are Picton-Wellington 2pm and Wellington-Picton 8.30pm, and on Wednesday, Picton-Wellington 2.30am, and Wellington-Picton 8.15am.

Customers are being told by email and text messages but BlueBridge said there were limited re-booking options.

“Standby lists across subsequent sailings will be operating from each port, for affected customers to be added to,” Bluebridge said.

Sailings from the same ferry were also cancelled earlier this month because of a technical fault.

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/2026/03/24/two-days-of-sailing-cancelled-for-one-bluebridge-cook-strait-ferry-amid-technical-fault/

Posted on

Man arrested following park assault

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Paula Drewery, Taranaki Area Investigations Manager:

Police investigating a serious assault in King Edward Park in Stratford on Friday evening have arrested one person.

A 23-year-old man will appear in the Hawera District Court today on wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Police previously asked the public for assistance to locate the offender, following a person being found seriously assaulted by an unknown man at the park.

They were transported to hospital with serious injuries and are thankfully recovering.

Police are grateful for the community’s assistance. It has been a fantastic response to be provided with information that helped investigative staff to quickly apprehend the offender.

Police want to reassure the community that this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing risk to the public.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/23/man-arrested-following-park-assault/

Posted on

Air New Zealand cancels four return flights to Samoa as airlines call for clarity

Source: Radio New Zealand

Airlines are comfortable there is currently a sufficient fuel supply, Board of Airline Representatives chief executive Cath O’Brien says. Supplied/ Air NZ

Air New Zealand says four return flights to Samoa for April and May have been cancelled because of rising fuel costs.

The cancellations are part of scheduled changes that the airline had announced at the start of this month.

Air New Zealand said it had nine services to Samoa each week and described the change as “minimal”.

It said like other airlines it was dealing with unprecedented volatility with jet fuel prices due to the conflict in the Middle East and was adjusting schedules to manage the impact.

Air New Zealand earlier said that it would cancel around 1100 flights from early March through until early May, but that most passengers would be moved to flights on the same day.

‘We might need to be careful with that jet fuel’ as supplies reduce

Airlines are pleading for assurance from the government, as the supply of jet fuel could be limited due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Board of Airline Representatives chief executive Cath O’Brien told Morning Report that New Zealand is a known as a “fuel risk destination”.

New Zealand had a history of experiencing issues with jet fuel allocation, she said.

“We saw that in 2017. We had the pipeline rupture. We saw it in 2022 and 2023 when we had insufficient jet fuel imported into the country.”

She was concerned that there had been no information, as suppliers could give 12 hours notice of rationing but airlines could not respond in the same way as usual because if there was limited jet fuel in New Zealand, the same would apply elsewhere.

“If we knew how a scarce resource of jet fuel might be managed, then we would be able to say how airlines might respond and whether that jet fuel is allocated more or less to long haul, or short haul, or freighters, or licensed flights, or regional services.

“At the moment, we’re kind of operating in this dearth of information.”

However, O’Brien said airlines were comfortable that there was currently a sufficient fuel supply, and could continue their usual operations.

“If we get to a point, as we have in the past in New Zealand, where jet fuel is 10 days away from arriving and we have a limited amount to get us through, then we might need to be careful with that jet fuel that we have as we wait for the next shipment.

“I think that’s increasingly likely as an outcome of the conflict up in the Middle East … so we need to know how we will manage that delay.”

Meanwhile, regional airlines are warning key air links are under growing pressure due to the rising fuel prices and operating costs.

Originair is poised to scrap its Wellington to Westport route, while Air Chathams has introduced a $20 fuel surcharge per ticket.

Barrier Air chief executive Grant Bacon said fuel price rises so far equated to about $15 extra per person on an average Wellington to Tākaka Golden Bay Air flight.

Reuters reports that jet fuel prices have soared from US$85-90 per barrel to US$150-200 per barrel in recent days leading to a number of airlines including Air New Zealand increasing fuel surcharges.

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/2026/03/24/air-new-zealand-cancels-four-return-flights-to-samoa-as-airlines-call-for-clarity/

Posted on

Competitive allocation process applications closed for NZ’s largest farm

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  23 March 2026

Rangitahi/Molesworth is New Zealand’s largest farm and has a long history of high-country farming.

It’s also a nationally important drylands ecosystem with a deep cultural significance to Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Kurī, Te Rūnanga o Toa Rangatira and Rangitāne o Wairau, and significant biodiversity and recreation values.

DOC South Marlborough Operations Manager Stacey Wrenn says DOC received five applications.

“We’re really pleased with the response we’ve had here. Given the scale of the reserve and the specialised type of farming, we think this is a good level of interest,” Stacey says.

“We appreciate the effort that has gone into preparing the applications.”

Stacey says the applications will now be carefully assessed against set criteria and DOC aims to select a preferred operator by the end of May.

“Assessment criteria includes the operator’s experience, skills and resources, how biodiversity and heritage values will be protected, how cultural values will be upheld, and how public access will be improved and facilitated.

“Details of this process are available in the tender document on the DOC website.

“Once a preferred operator is chosen, they will be invited to apply for a concession, which will be publicly notified so people can have their say on the proposal.”

The existing lease with Pāmu (Landcorp Farming), expires 30 June 2026. DOC and Pāmu are working together to ensure operations continue smoothly while the preferred operator is selected and new concession processed, and to work through the change of operators, if necessary.

“As the incumbent, Pāmu continues to engage closely with the Department of Conservation regarding the future of the Molesworth lease, and we’re committed to working constructively through their process,” says a Pāmu spokesperson.

At 180,787 ha, Molesworth Recreation Reserve is slightly larger than Rakiura/Stewart Island and larger than 10 of New Zealand’s National Parks.

More details about the competitive allocation process can be found on the DOC website.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/23/competitive-allocation-process-applications-closed-for-nzs-largest-farm/

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Air New Zealand cancels four return flights to Samoa as airlines call for clarity

Source: Radio New Zealand

Airlines are comfortable there is currently a sufficient fuel supply, Board of Airline Representatives chief executive Cath O’Brien says. Supplied/ Air NZ

Air New Zealand says four return flights to Samoa for April and May have been cancelled because of rising fuel costs.

The cancellations are part of scheduled changes that the airline had announced at the start of this month.

Air New Zealand said it had nine services to Samoa each week and described the change as “minimal”.

It said like other airlines it was dealing with unprecedented volatility with jet fuel prices due to the conflict in the Middle East and was adjusting schedules to manage the impact.

Air New Zealand earlier said that it would cancel around 1100 flights from early March through until early May, but that most passengers would be moved to flights on the same day.

‘We might need to be careful with that jet fuel’ as supplies reduce

Airlines are pleading for assurance from the government, as the supply of jet fuel could be limited due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Board of Airline Representatives chief executive Cath O’Brien told Morning Report that New Zealand is a known as a “fuel risk destination”.

New Zealand had a history of experiencing issues with jet fuel allocation, she said.

“We saw that in 2017. We had the pipeline rupture. We saw it in 2022 and 2023 when we had insufficient jet fuel imported into the country.”

She was concerned that there had been no information, as suppliers could give 12 hours notice of rationing but airlines could not respond in the same way as usual because if there was limited jet fuel in New Zealand, the same would apply elsewhere.

“If we knew how a scarce resource of jet fuel might be managed, then we would be able to say how airlines might respond and whether that jet fuel is allocated more or less to long haul, or short haul, or freighters, or licensed flights, or regional services.

“At the moment, we’re kind of operating in this dearth of information.”

However, O’Brien said airlines were comfortable that there was currently a sufficient fuel supply, and could continue their usual operations.

“If we get to a point, as we have in the past in New Zealand, where jet fuel is 10 days away from arriving and we have a limited amount to get us through, then we might need to be careful with that jet fuel that we have as we wait for the next shipment.

“I think that’s increasingly likely as an outcome of the conflict up in the Middle East … so we need to know how we will manage that delay.”

Meanwhile, regional airlines are warning key air links are under growing pressure due to the rising fuel prices and operating costs.

Originair is poised to scrap its Wellington to Westport route, while Air Chathams has introduced a $20 fuel surcharge per ticket.

Barrier Air chief executive Grant Bacon said fuel price rises so far equated to about $15 extra per person on an average Wellington to Tākaka Golden Bay Air flight.

Reuters reports that jet fuel prices have soared from US$85-90 per barrel to US$150-200 per barrel in recent days leading to a number of airlines including Air New Zealand increasing fuel surcharges.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/24/air-new-zealand-cancels-four-return-flights-to-samoa-as-airlines-call-for-clarity/

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Farmer who ‘charged’ council officer fined $35,000 for effluent discharges

Source: Radio New Zealand

James Langton was fined $35,000 when he appeared for sentencing at New Plymouth District Court. Supplied / Ministry of Justice

An Ōpunake farmer who charged at a regional council staff member inspecting problems at his property has been told the courts will “not tolerate threats or intimidation” of people doing their jobs.

James Langton was fined $35,000 after pleading guilty to two charges of discharging untreated dairy effluent when he appeared for sentencing at New Plymouth District Court.

An inspection of Langton’s property on 9 October could not be completed when the dairy farmer became aggressive to staff and, on 12 October, he charged at a council officer and police had to intervene.

“This court will not tolerate threats or intimidation of council officers who are doing their job,” wrote Judge Jeff Smith in his decision which noted police were present.

Langton, who no longer operated the farm, was denied a 5 percent discount for personal remorse or otherwise good conduct due to the ‘regrettable’ charging of the council officer.

Council staff were investigating the discharge of untreated dairy effluent onto land and groundwater at the 40ha farm on Ihaia Road which could have contaminated groundwater and the Hihiwera Stream.

That visit followed seven earlier non-compliance notices from 2009 to 2022, five of which were related to effluent on the site.

Judge Smith said it was a ‘miracle’ the effluent in the 2025 incident had not made it to water after the inspection found effluent was being discharged directly from pipes rather than an irrigator and a broken outlet pipe was also discharging directly onto land.

The January sentencing was discussed at a Taranaki Regional Council Operations and Regulatory Committee on Tuesday.

The council’s compliance manager, Jared Glasgow, told the committee the decision to discard the remorse discount and the substantial fine showed the severity of the incident.

“We were appalled by the actions of the farmer. There is no place for intimidation or threats to our staff who are out in the community working to safeguard our environment,” Glasgow said.

“While we work really well with the vast majority of farmers, we hope the outcome of this case will act as a reminder that our staff are people and should be treated accordingly. Our staff are doing fantastic work and deserve to be treated with respect.

“This case is also a reminder of the importance of following resource consents and ensuring dairy effluent is disposed of correctly with zero chance of it entering waterways or groundwater.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/24/farmer-who-charged-council-officer-fined-35000-for-effluent-discharges/