Category: LiveNews

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Zaroa NZ Salami products recalled due lack of required food safety controls

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting MeatUp Limited trading as Zaroa NZ in recalling all batches of 3 salami products due to a lack of required food safety controls. 

“The concern is the salami has been produced without the required controls and oversight,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle. 

All batches and dates of the following products are affected by this recall: 

  • Delicate Salami Pohutukawa Smoked Black Angus Beef (80g) 
    Batch Code: 50823-3, Use By: 6/04/2026 
  • Hawkes Bay Black Angus Beef Chorizo Salami (80g) 
    Batch Code: 50823-4, Use By: 11/04/2026 
  • Pure Black Salami Black Angus Beef (80g)  
    Batch Code 50823-2, Use By 11/04/2026 

“These products should not be eaten. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund. If that’s not possible, throw them out,” says Mr Arbuckle. 

  • Hesari Supermarket Great North Road: 344 Great North Road, Henderson, Auckland 0627 
  • Hesari Supermarket Wairau Valley: Unit 15, 170 Wairau Road, Wairau Valley, Auckland 0627 
  • Keri Berries: 484 Kerikeri Road, Kerikeri 0293 
  • Pegasus Bay Winery: 263 Stockgrove Road, Waipara, RD 2 Amberly 7482 
  • Zaroa NZ stall at Parnell Farmers’ Market: 545 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052 
  • Zaroa NZ online store

Affected products are not available in supermarkets.

Visit our recall page for more information on the affected products. 

Zaroa NZ products

Traditionally dried and cured products must be carefully controlled as the process of making them does not involve a high-temperature cooking step that kills bacteria like Salmonella and E.coli. 

There have been no reports of illness relating to these products. 

If you have consumed any of these products and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice. 

The products have been removed from store shelves and have not been exported. 

“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Zaroa NZ to ensure appropriate food safety controls are put in place,” Mr Arbuckle says. 

The vast majority of food sold in New Zealand is safe, but sometimes problems can occur. Help keep yourself and your family safe by subscribing to our recall alerts. 

Information on how to subscribe is on the New Zealand Food Safety food recall page.   

For more information, email: NZFoodSafety_media@mpi.govt.nz

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/zaroa-nz-salami-products-recalled-due-lack-of-required-food-safety-controls/

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HKFYG presents Hong Kong International a cappella Festival 2026: Voices Unbound

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – This March, voices from around the world enthral the city with the return of the Hong Kong International a cappella Festival 2026. A celebration of vocal virtuosity and a confluence of global artistry, the annual flagship event of The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) will take the theme of “Voices Unbound” this year.

Over 20 local and international vocal bands will take audiences on a journey across musical worlds at HKFYG’s Hong Kong International a cappella Festival 2026.

Taking place from 21 to 29 March, more than 20 local and international vocal bands will transform the city into a living soundscape, one where creativity and expression transcend borders. Across nine days, over a dozen stage performances and community showcases will invite audiences on a world-class journey of pure vocal harmony.

As Hong Kong’s only and most celebrated a cappella event, the Festival has brought together globally renowned and locally acclaimed talent since its inception in 2008. Every year, the vocal bands fill the city with rhythms and harmonies of a cappella, from stages to streets.

Spotlight Programmes – Uniting World-class Talents

On Friday 27 March, the highlight of the Festival, the International a cappella Extravaganza, will take centre stage at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium. Featuring the jazz-folk of Spectrum Vocal Band from Bulgaria, the folk and R&B of City Singers from Xiamen and the collegiate vivacity of Pitch, Please! from the United States, the event promises a sonic splendour. These headliners will be joined by Hong Kong’s award-winning Saliva Music, known for their EDM style, and rising young stars, Little by Little Kids, loved for their creative flair. Tickets are now on sale on urbtix.hk and at all URBTIX outlets.

On Sunday 22 March, the a cappella Gala will unfold at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Piazza, where audiences can revel in grand performances against the dusk-lit backdrop of Victoria Harbour. On Saturday 28 March, the International a cappella Marathon will take audiences on a four-hour soul-stirring journey at apm, Kwun Tong. Both events are free and open to the public.

Community Resonance – From Streets to Campus

The Festival offers a citywide immersive experience that extends beyond halls and stages. The a cappella Prologue at the Mall and the a cappella Resonance at the Mall will bring a cappella music to the community, treating shoppers and visitors to unexpected musical encounters. The two events will be held at apm, Kwun Tong on Saturday 21 March and wwwtc mall, Causeway Bay on Sunday 29 March, respectively.

From Monday 23 to Thursday 26 March, a cappella On The GO will reel around Hong Kong, taking vocal bands to streets and schools across the city for spontaneous performances. On campuses, performers will engage with students, sharing their love of a cappella, the joy of music-making and the art of vocal mastery. Through interaction and exchange, the series hopes to ignite a passion for a cappella music among the younger generation.

For full programme details, visit the HKFYG Cultural Services Unit website at csu.hkfyg.org.hk.

Hashtag: #ACappella #HKFYG #無伴奏合唱

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/2026/03/12/hkfyg-presents-hong-kong-international-a-cappella-festival-2026-voices-unbound/

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Successful end to fruit fly response in Auckland’s Mt Roskill

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Mt Roskill have been lifted with no further evidence of Queensland fruit fly found in the area, says Mike Inglis, Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north.

The decision to end the operation follows 6 weeks of intensive fruit fly trapping and the inspection of more than 230 kilograms of fruit. 

Mr Inglis thanked residents and businesses in the affected area for their support of the response. 

“It wouldn’t have been possible to get to this point without the support of the local community. Every person who has kept an eye out for fruit flies, complied with movement controls, and safely disposed of their fruit waste, has played an important role in protecting our horticultural sector. 

“We are satisfied that with no further detections, the Controlled Area Notice restrictions can be lifted, and response operations closed.”

Biosecurity wheelie bins that have dotted the neighbourhood will be removed and road signs will be dismantled.

While response operations are ending, Biosecurity New Zealand’s routine nationwide surveillance continues, with a system of nearly 8,000 fruit fly traps spread across the country. More than 4,600 of these are in the Auckland area. 

“The surveillance traps target 3 exotic fruit fly species of concern: the Queensland fruit fly, Mediterranean fruit fly and Oriental fruit fly. This successful response is a great example of how surveillance traps help alert us to the presence of unwelcome pests and enable us to stamp them out quickly,” says Mr Inglis.

Biosecurity New Zealand staff will be out in the community today handing out flyers about the response closure and personally thanking residents and business owners for their contribution to the effort. 

“I’d also like to acknowledge the good work of our people and our partners across the horticulture sector. By working together, and responding quickly, we have managed this situation well,” Mr Inglis says. 

Key figures

  • More than 9,800 individual visits were made to check the 358 fruit fly traps in the Mt Roskill area throughout the response.
  • Over 364 biosecurity bins were distributed in the community to collect produce waste for safe disposal.
  • More than 230 kilograms of fruit and vegetables were collected and examined for any signs of fruit fly eggs or larvae.

Read more on Queensland fruit fly, Mt Roskill

For more information, email: BiosecurityNZ_media@mpi.govt.nz

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/successful-end-to-fruit-fly-response-in-aucklands-mt-roskill/

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Heritage advocates warn shifting to higher seismic zone will damage Dunedin’s economy

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Octagon in Dunedin. RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

Heritage advocates are warning shifting Dunedin to a higher seismic zone will damage the city’s economy and put its iconic heritage buildings at risk.

Under the proposed new earthquake prone buildings bill, Coastal Otago – including Dunedin – will shift from a low to a medium seismic risk area.

But on Thursday, the Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee was warned of the harm this could do to a city known for its historical architecture.

The bill’s aim was to target buildings that posed the greatest risk to life in medium to high risk zones, including concrete buildings three storeys or higher, and those constructed with unreinforced masonry.

Southern Heritage Trust trustee Jo Galer told the committee that Dunedin’s ornate heritage buildings were a big drawcard for travellers.

But she said the city’s iconic buildings were already in the firing line – a pre-1900 church and a 1820s landmark home near the Octagon were recent casualties.

The promise of common sense changes to the seismic rules was welcome, but she said they had been left bitterly disappointed.

“The legislation risks unintentionally accelerating the loss of the very buildings that give Dunedin its character,” she said.

“Instead of making it easier to repurpose and restore buildings, developers and people in the business of knocking down buildings for carparks will have a field day.”

Southern Heritage Trust trustee Jo Galer. Supplied

Building in Auckland, along with Northland and the Chatham Islands, would be removed from the system entirely as they were deemed as lower seismic risk areas.

If Dunedin remained at a low seismic risk, Galer said it could be a lifeline for heritage buildings – if there were cost effective solutions offered.

Instead, she told committee chairperson Andy Foster that the new rules would make things worse.

“It’s tough enough and the costs are already sky high and they’re going to get even worse and I can not see how building owners can maintain their buildings in that environment, in that legislative environment. It’s just wrong for Dunedin.”

The bill said the shift from low to medium zone reflected the greater understanding of seismic hazard in that area.

That meant about 150 earthquake-prone buildings would remain in the system and more could be identified.

But councillor Russell Lund told the committee that figure was actually much higher and it was one of several flaws in the reports used as the foundation for the bill that made him question why Dunedin’s risk level was being increased.

“Dunedin has 323 earthquake prone buildings. There is a total of 6500 buildings that are going to be classified and there is still 3700 yet to be classified

He was one of six councillors calling for Dunedin and coastal Otago to remain a low-risk seismic zone, saying a change would pose a real economic risk to businesses and property owners.

The shift to a higher risk zone would take a toll on Dunedin, he said.

“Dunedin council has confirmed it’s unknown how many three level unreinforced masonry buildings there are in Dunedin. But they have confirmed that two levels plus a basement will be considered a three-level building and this is a critical point,” Lund said.

“Because under the new legislation, a three level unreinforced masonry building must have a full retrofit. There’s no partial or just facade securing, it’s full.”

Tourism contributed roughly $379 million to the city’s GDP last year and the city relied on its heritage look and feel to attract visitors, he said.

Dunedin already had many under-utilised heritage buildings due to the cost of remediation and this bill was expected to add even further cost and complexity, Lund said.

“As a heritage building owner and building contractor, I understand this intimately. It’s expensive and risky to do strengthening. Old buildings are frustrating. They’re not plumb, level or square. There’s often rot and decay uncovered during the work.

“They consume vast amounts of labour hours and supervision time. I have the scars and the job cost to prove it.”

They also advocated for Ōamaru and its wealth of heritage buildings to be exempted, saying the lower risk town would face significant costs because it was above the proposed small town population threshold of 10,000.

Structural engineer and heritage building developer Stephen Macknight said Dunedin has New Zealand’s best collection of heritage buildings.

“It’s a point of difference compared to other places. We didn’t have in the 80s all our heritage knocked down like many of the cities around the country, and also we had the gold rush at a time when they were building really significant heritage structures,” he said.

Dunedin was lucky to not have more demolition under the current rules as the main streets in some smaller towns had been decimated when earthquake prone buildings were left empty as it was too costly to strengthen them and it viewed as easier to bowl them over instead, he said.

He was left with questions over the proposed rules, and said what the city needed was more certainty.

“Developers who are trying to juggle money and borrow money, and banks and insurance companies, with all this doubt out there it makes it a lot harder to do,” he said.

“Everyone needs a bit of certainty so all these changes or the talk about medium (seismic zone) and so on is just creating a little bit more fear in people and making the easier option to build new rather than work on redeveloping.”

It was not necessarily a bad thing for buildings to be empty for a period, he said.

“It saved a lot of buildings in Dunedin. A lot of Ōamaru just wouldn’t be there if it wasn’t for this kind of pause and wait so if we rush into anything under legislation, we lose things which in the future might be seen as really valuable and able to be saved.”

It was important to make sure the new rules were not used to take the easy option of demolition rather than protecting heritage, Macknight 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/2026/03/12/heritage-advocates-warn-shifting-to-higher-seismic-zone-will-damage-dunedins-economy/

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Road blocked, Western Bay Road, Waihaha, Taupō

Source: New Zealand Police

Western Bay Road, Waihaha, Taupō, is blocked following a logging truck fire this evening.

Police were notified of the incident, between Kuratau Hydro Road and Karangahape Road, around 5.50pm

Thankfully, no one has been injured.

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

ENDS

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/12/road-blocked-western-bay-road-waihaha-taupo/

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Proposed options to improve the traceability of pigs and sheep

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Update – 19 February 2026

The consultation closing time was extended by 7 hours. Submissions will now be accepted up to 11.59pm on 5 April 2026.  

We’ve also confirmed dates and times for 2 public webinars we’re holding to outline the proposals in more detail.

Webinar information

Have your say

The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is seeking feedback on options to improve the traceability of pigs and sheep in New Zealand.

The proposed options aim to:

  • provide a rapid traceability system for pigs and sheep during an outbreak of foot and mouth disease
  • improve animal traceability for any future diseases.

This consultation opened on 16 February 2026. All submissions must be received by 11.59pm on 5 April 2026. 

What’s being proposed?

MPI is consulting on 3 options. We want to improve our ability to trace pigs and sheep rapidly and accurately during an animal disease response, especially foot and mouth disease. The options are not mutually exclusive because the best option for each species could be different because of their production systems or trade requirements. 

Option 1: Retain the status quo – pigs and sheep continue to be traced through animal status declarations under the Animal Products Act 1999 in paper or PDF form.

Option 2: Mandating the use of (mob-level) pig and sheep electronic animal status declarations under the Animal Products Act 1999.

Option 3: Include pigs and sheep as National Animal Identification and Tracing (NAIT) animals under the NAIT Act 2012, at mob level.

Full details are in the consultation document.

Consultation document

Discussion document: Options for improving pig and sheep traceability [PDF, 461 KB]

Related legislation

Biosecurity Act 1993 – NZ Legislation

National Animal Identification and Tracing Act 2012 – NZ Legislation

Animal Products Act 1999 – NZ Legislation

Webinars

MPI will host 2 public webinars to outline the proposals in more detail on:

  • 11 March between 1pm and 2pm
  • 19 March between 9am and 10am.

The webinars are being held on Microsoft Teams. You must register to attend.

Register for the 11 March webinar

Register for the 19 March webinar

Making your submission

Submit your feedback on the options by 11.59pm on 5 April 2026. We’d prefer you use our online survey but you can also send submissions by email or post.

Online survey

Options for improving pig and sheep traceability – MS Forms

Email submissions

Send your feedback to BiosecurityPartnerships.Policy@mpi.govt.nz

A template is available to help you complete your submission.

Submissions template [DOCX, 744 KB]

Postal submissions

You can post written submissions to:

Pig and Sheep Traceability
Ministry for Primary Industries
PO Box 2526
Wellington 6140
New Zealand.

What to include in submissions sent by email or post

  • The submissions template, if you completed it. 
  • The title of the consultation document.
  • Your name and title.
  • Your organisation’s name (if you are submitting on behalf of an organisation, and whether your submission represents the whole organisation or a section of it).
  • Your contact details (such as phone number, address, and email). 

Submissions are public information

Note that all, part, or a summary of your submission may be published on this website. Most often this happens when we issue a document that reviews the submissions received.

People can also ask for copies of submissions under the Official Information Act 1982 (OIA). The OIA says we must make the content of submissions available unless we have good reason for withholding it. Those reasons are detailed in sections 6 and 9 of the OIA.

If you think there are grounds to withhold specific information from publication, make this clear in your submission or contact us. Reasons may include that it discloses commercially sensitive or personal information. However, any decision MPI makes to withhold details can be reviewed by the Ombudsman, who may direct us to release it.

Official Information Act 1982 – NZ Legislation

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/proposed-options-to-improve-the-traceability-of-pigs-and-sheep/

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Fruit fly response ramps up in Papatoetoe

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

The Oriental fruit fly response continues in Papatoetoe, with no further sign of the pest so far, says Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis. 

It follows the identification of a single male fruit fly in a surveillance trap in the suburb on Wednesday.

“We’re continuing to ramp up our surveillance, including setting and checking additional traps in the area around the original find,” says Mr Inglis.

“Today our team is installing signage where legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables are in place.”

“The legal controls are an important precaution while we investigate whether there are any further fruit flies present.”

The area where controls are in place has 2 zones – Zone A is a 200-metre zone, including 501 properties. Zone B covers a 1,500-metre area, including 9,481 properties.

Zone A

No whole fresh fruit and vegetables, except for leafy vegetables and soil free root vegetables, can be moved outside Zone A. This applies to all produce, regardless of whether it was bought or grown.  

Zone B

All fruit and vegetables grown within Zone B cannot be moved out of the controlled area. 

Biosecurity disposal bins are being placed in the area for fruit, vegetable, and compost waste, which are then collected for secure disposal.

A map of the controlled area, as well as a full description of the boundaries and rules in place is available on our website.

Oriental fruit fly detection in Papatoetoe, Auckland

“Biosecurity New Zealand staff are on the ground in the area today and over the weekend, handing out brochures and providing information and support to the community and businesses,” says Mr Inglis.

“They will be visiting the local night markets this evening to share information about the response.

“We’ve stamped out previous fruit flies with the help of local communities and our sector partners, and we appreciate their ongoing support.” 

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/fruit-fly-response-ramps-up-in-papatoetoe/

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Fruit fly surveillance area widens in Papatoetoe

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Biosecurity New Zealand is widening its trapping zone in Papatoetoe after today finding 3 more male Oriental fruit flies, says Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis.

“The finds in our traps, following last week’s detection of a single male fly in the suburb, is not unexpected and shows our enhanced surveillance and inspection is working,” says Mr Inglis. A biosecurity operation has been under way in the area and restrictions on the movement of fruit and vegetables in place since last Wednesday.

“At the moment we’ve found 4 single males in total, all of them in Papatoetoe, and there’s no evidence of a breeding population. The key sign of that would be the detection of a mated female or larvae. We have been collecting fallen fruit from people’s backyards, which we will cut up and examine in our dedicated laboratory.

“We continue to bolster our network of traps in the controlled area to ensure good coverage near to each fly detection. The lures we use in the traps are very strong and attract the fly,” says Mr Inglis.

Today’s detections mean the restrictions on movement of fruit and vegetables have been extended. There are now 3 areas under Zone A restrictions, 200-metres around each fly detection. Zone B has also been extended to account for the location of the new detections.

Signs will be installed at every road entrance and exit to the newly extended controlled area, reminding people of the restrictions.

A detailed map of the controlled area and a full description of the new boundaries and movement controls is at the MPI fruitfly page. Remember – if in doubt, don’t take it out.

Oriental fruit fly detection in 2026 in Papatoetoe, Auckland

“We have successfully eradicated fruit fly from New Zealand 15 times, so we have very strong and detailed operational plans to guide our work and that includes a comprehensive trapping and inspection programme.,” says Mr Inglis.

Residents in the area where movement restrictions are in place are being asked to put fruit and vegetable waste into bins provided by Biosecurity New Zealand. This is so the waste can be disposed of securely.

Every household in Zone A has, or will receive in the next couple of days, a biosecurity disposal bin. In Zone B, there are bins placed around the edge of the zone, primarily on major transport routes, with more within the zone. More bins will also be provided in Zone B over the coming days.

“Our people will be continuing their work on the ground, engaging with the local community and sharing information with residents in the newly extended controlled area,” says Mr Inglis.

“We are grateful for the support from the community and our sector partners to date, which is critical to successfully find and eradicate any further fruit flies that may be present in the area.”

Mr Inglis says the fruit fly poses no human health risk, but there would be an economic cost to the horticulture industry if it were allowed to establish here.

If you find larvae inside fruit, or believe you have seen a fruit fly, keep hold of it and call 0800 80 99 66.

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/fruit-fly-surveillance-area-widens-in-papatoetoe/

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Biosecurity New Zealand investigating and boosting trapping after Oriental fruit fly find

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

A biosecurity operation is under way in Papatoetoe in South Auckland following the discovery of a single male Oriental fruit fly in a surveillance trap, says Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis.

“The fruit fly was identified this evening as part of Biosecurity New Zealand’s national surveillance programme, which involves almost 8,000 traps around the country,” Mr Inglis says.

“We have located this pest thanks to our extensive network of traps. Because of this, we know where the problem is and we can respond quickly and effectively.

“Since 1996, we have successfully eradicated 15 incursions of different fruit fly in Auckland and Northland. 

“These have all have been eradicated thanks to the work of Biosecurity New Zealand, our horticulture partners, and local communities who have stepped up to help.

“The most recent eradication was a single male Queensland fruit fly in Mt Roskill, which wrapped up last week after 6 weeks of intensive fruit fly trapping and the inspection of more than 230 kilograms of fruit.

“The Oriental fruit fly find in Papatoetoe is unrelated to the Queensland fruit fly in Mt Roskill.

“We will be ramping up trapping and inspections in Papatoetoe. As a precautionary measure, Biosecurity New Zealand will put in place legal restrictions on the movement of fruit and vegetables out of the area where the fruit fly has been found.

“Over the next 24 hours, we will issue details about these controls and the exact areas affected. 

“In the meantime, it’s important that people who live and work in the suburb not take any whole fresh fruit and vegetables out of their property.”

Mr Inglis says biosecurity staff will be out tomorrow providing the local community with information.

“You may notice our staff carrying out inspections and trapping in the neighbourhood,” Mr Inglis says.

In addition to the field work, Biosecurity New Zealand is working closely with Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners in the horticultural industry to minimise the risk to New Zealand growers and exporters.

The fruit fly poses no human health risk, but there would be an economic cost to the horticulture industry if it were allowed to establish here.

Mr Inglis says Biosecurity New Zealand has among the strictest controls in the world for the importation of fruit and checks at the border. The most likely way that fruit flies can arrive in New Zealand is on fresh fruit and vegetables.

To report suspected finds of fruit fly, call MPI’s Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66.

More information on the Papatoetoe fruit fly detection

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/biosecurity-new-zealand-investigating-and-boosting-trapping-after-oriental-fruit-fly-find/

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Restrictions now in place on fruit and vegetable movements in Papatoetoe

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Biosecurity New Zealand has placed legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe following yesterday’s detection of a single male Oriental fruit fly, says Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis.

The Oriental fruit fly was found in one of Biosecurity New Zealand’s national surveillance traps placed in fruit trees in residential back yards. No other fruit flies have been found in traps in the area.

“Since 1996, we have successfully eradicated 15 fruit fly incursions in Auckland and Northland, with strong support from the community,” says Mr Inglis.

“This means we have detailed operational plans to guide our work.

“We’re calling on the community’s help again with this latest find.”

Biosecurity New Zealand staff are busy in the Papatoetoe area today laying more traps in addition to the network of national surveillance traps already in the area and giving out information to residents.

“There are now legal controls in place that prohibit the movement of certain whole fruit and vegetables out of a specified controlled area around where the fruit fly was found.”

The controlled area has 2 zones – A and B:

  • Zone A is a 200-metre area, including 501 properties.
  • Zone B covers a 1,500-metre area, including 9,481 properties. 

Zone A

Whole fresh fruit and vegetables, except for leafy vegetables and soil free root vegetables, cannot be moved outside Zone A.

This applies to all produce, regardless of whether it was bought or grown.

Zone B

Whole fruit and vegetables grown within Zone B cannot be moved out of the controlled area.

Signs will notify people of the restrictions and mark the controlled area boundaries.

A detailed map of the controlled area, and a full description of the boundaries and rules in place, can be found on our website.

Oriental fruit fly detection in 2026 in Papatoetoe, Auckland

“These legal controls are an important precaution while we investigate whether any further fruit flies are present in the area,” Mr Inglis says.

“As our climate warms, it is important we remain alert to these risks. That’s why we have a robust surveillance and trapping system in place that allow us to act quickly and effectively when we need to. Our work in Papatoetoe, and the support of the local community, are a good example of our biosecurity system in action.

“We are working closely with our Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners in the horticultural industry.

“Following these legal controls will help protect our horticultural industries, home gardens, and our New Zealand way of life. We thank the community for its support.”

To report suspected finds of fruit fly, call MPI’s Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/restrictions-now-in-place-on-fruit-and-vegetable-movements-in-papatoetoe/

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Pams Beef Lasagna recalled due to incorrect use-by date

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Foodstuffs Own Brands in its recall of Pams Beef Lasagne due to the product being labelled with the incorrect use-by date. 

“The concern with this lasagna is that the use-by date is incorrect by 2 months. It should have been March 1, which is this Sunday, but instead it is incorrectly labelled as May 1,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle. 

“These products should not be eaten after Sunday. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund. If that’s not possible, throw them out.” 

The affected Pams Beef Lasagne (1.3 kg) with a use-by date of 01MAY26 is sold at Four Square, New World, and Pak’n Save supermarkets in the North Island. 

Visit New Zealand Food Safety’s recall page for up-to-date information and photographs of the affected product. 

If you eat any of these products after Sunday and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice. 

The products were imported from Australia and labelled in New Zealand. The products have not been re-exported. They have been removed from stores. 

“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Foodstuffs Own Brands to understand how the date mark labelling error occurred and prevent its recurrence,” says Mr Arbuckle. 

The vast majority of food sold in New Zealand is safe, but sometimes problems can occur. Help keep yourself and your family safe by subscribing to our recall alerts. Information on how to subscribe is on the New Zealand Food Safety food recall page.

Pams brand Beef Lasagne recalled due to the product being labelled with an incorrect use-by date

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/pams-beef-lasagna-recalled-due-to-incorrect-use-by-date/

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Hauraki Gulf collections closure comes into force

Source: New Zealand Government

Fishery Officers are ramping up patrols as a ban comes into force on gathering marine life from rockpools and coastal waters on the Hauraki Gulf coast north of Auckland, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones and Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft say.

The closure, which starts today, has been put in place to help preserve these important ecological areas and ensure the sustainability of the fishery.

“This means it is illegal for anyone to take any seaweeds, shellfish or other rockpool sea life from these areas including sponges, starfish, sea anemones, and sea cucumbers,” Mr Jones says. 

“Fishery Officers will be at key locations to provide information to members of the public about the closure.”

Anyone breaking the rules could face fines ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 and have items used in the offending seized, including vehicles for more serious offences.

“It’s important that people familiarise themselves with the new rules and they can do this by downloading the free NZ Fishing Rules App, checking MPI’s website, visiting an MPI office, or talking with a Fishery Officer,” Ms Marcroft says.

“Officials continue to engage with iwi and local communities to provide support and help get the word out.” 

Fisheries New Zealand worked with the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust on its request for a two-year temporary fisheries closure.

Ngāti Manuhiri will place a traditional rāhui over the closed areas and the same species.

“There is an educational component to help the public learn about the cultural and environmental significance of these measures,” Ms Marcroft says. 

Fisheries New Zealand has also made a range of education materials available to help the public understand the closures, the species affected, and the importance of protecting intertidal ecosystems.

Other measures, including potential infringements, are still being worked on by Fisheries.

A broader programme of work is also under way for managing intertidal shellfish in the Auckland and Coromandel region.

More information, including a map of the closures, is available at www.fisheries.govt.nz/Hauraki-closures 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/hauraki-gulf-collections-closure-comes-into-force/

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The Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report 2026: Global art sales rose 4% to USD 59.6 billion in 2025

Source: Media Outreach

The global art market returned to growth in 2025, led by renewed confidence at the high end, with dealer sales up 2% year‑on‑year and public auction sales rising 9% by value.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – The Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report 2026, authored by Dr. Clare McAndrew, Founder of Arts Economics, provides a comprehensive benchmark analysis of the global art market in 2025. Co‑published by Art Basel and UBS, the tenth edition of the report examines the performance of key market segments, including galleries and dealers, auction houses, and art fairs, against the backdrop of shifting economic conditions, evolving buyer behavior, and changes in global wealth. The publication is the most comprehensive data-driven overview of the forces shaping today’s art market.

Clare McAndrew, Founder, Arts Economics, said: “The market welcomed a shift in direction in 2025, from the contraction of previous years to modest growth. However, it continued to operate in a volatile geopolitical environment, particularly regarding cross-border trade, the full implications of which are still unfolding in 2026. While some categories of art were relatively insulated from the direct effects of tariffs, broader policy uncertainty and trade fragmentation created challenges for businesses, affecting pricing and supply. A wider shift toward protectionism and more domestically focused sales also poses longer-term risks, as the art trade relies heavily on international circulation and access to global audiences. Early indicators suggest cross-border trade in art remained broadly stable in 2025, but how these flows evolve will be critical to the market’s future growth.“

Adrian Zuercher, Co‑Head Global Asset Allocation and Co‑Head Global Investment Management APAC, UBS Global Wealth Management CIO, said: “The Art Basel and UBS Global Art Market Report 2026 highlights a nuanced picture across Asia Pacific. China maintained its position as one of the world’s leading art markets while Hong Kong continues to play a central role in the Asia art ecosystem with several high‑value sales and early signs of macroeconomic stabilization this year. Singapore sustained its trajectory as a growing regional hub. Against a backdrop of moderating inflation and improving regional fundamentals, these dynamics reinforce Asia Pacific’s growing importance on the global art market stage.”

Noah Horowitz, CEO, Art Basel, said: “2025 marked a return to growth for the art business and a strategic inflection point in its continued evolution. Over the year, dealers refined their programs and client engagement strategies with clear intentionality, while art fair-related sales strengthened. Although elevated costs, geopolitical uncertainty, and tariff concerns are still affecting business, buyer confidence improved as the year progressed and the year closed with a succession of dynamic sales moments. As the market recalibrates within a more disciplined range, sustained growth will depend on bringing exceptional works to market, deepening client relationships, and broadening participation across the global ecosystem – priorities that are guiding our focus in 2026.”

The key findings include:

  • Global sales: The global art market returned to growth in 2025, with sales increasing by 4% year-on-year to an estimated USD 59.6 billion. Aggregate sales in the dealer sector rose to USD 34.8 billion (up 2%) and public auction sales increased to USD 20.7 billion (up 9%), while reported auction house private sales declined to just under USD 4.2 billion (down 4%). The volume of transactions reached an estimated 41.5 million in 2025 (up 2%).
  • Leading art markets: The United States, the United Kingdom, and China accounted for 76% of global art sales by value, in line with last year. The US remained the largest market with a 44% share, followed by the UK at 18% and China at 14%. France increased its global share by one percentage point to 8%, consolidating its position as the fourth‑largest market and the largest within the EU.
  • Mixed regional market performance:
    • Sales in the United States reached USD 26 billion (up 5% year-on-year), with a strong rebound at the high-end of the auction market and despite trade unpredictability.
    • UK sales increased to USD 10.5 billion (up 2% year-on-year), driven by growth in public auctions.
    • In China, sales increased to USD 8.5 billion (up just over 1% year-on-year). The market stabilized despite the real estate downturn and other economic concerns that weighed on consumer confidence.
    • France saw sales rising to USD 4.5 billion (up 9% year-on-year), driven by strong performance in both the auction and dealer sectors. That performance lifted the market above its 2019 level.
    • Across Europe and Asia, performance year-on-year was mixed, with growth in markets such as Switzerland (up 13%), Austria (up 13%), Spain (up 6%), and South Korea (up 6%), and slower conditions in Germany (down 10%), Italy (down 2%), and Japan (down 1%).
  • Dealer market recovery: Global dealer sales reached USD 34.8 billion (up 2% year-on-year). While 42% of dealers reported higher sales, rising operating costs (up an average5%) continued to weigh on profitability. Lower‑end dealers (turning over less than USD 500,000) recorded the strongest growth, while sales among mid‑market dealers (turnover between USD 1 million and USD 10 million) softened slightly. At the top end, dealers with turnover above USD 10 million returned to growth.
  • Dealer resilience and business longevity: A review of published gallery activity based on media announcements showed despite high‑profile gallery closures in 2025, there was no evidence that closures outpaced openings overall. Gallery launches represented 42% of reported activity, compared with 25% closures, underscoring continued adaptation and resilience within the dealer sector.
  • Gender representation: Female artist representation strengthened further in 2025, reaching 50% of total artists among primary market galleries and 45% across all dealers. Works by female artists accounted for 37% of sales by value (up from 28% in 2018), although disparities persist at the highest revenue levels.
  • Growing importance of art fairs: Art fair sales increased to 35% of dealer turnover (up 4% year-on-year), their highest level since 2022. Overseas fairs accounted for the majority of sales, though growth was recorded at both international and local events, particularly among mid‑sized dealers.
  • Auction market dynamics: Combined public and private auction sales reached USD 24.8 billion. Public auction sales increased to USD 20.7 billion (up 9% year-on-year), driven by the ultra-high‑end sales above USD 10 million (up 30%) and record prices in the second half of the year, while private sales declined to just under USD 4.2 billion (down 5%).
  • Online sales moderation: Online art sales declined to USD 9.2 billion (down 11% year-on-year), their lowest level since 2019, as high‑value transactions shifted back to in‑person channels. Online‑only sales accounted for 15% of total market value, down 3% in share year-on-year, remaining an important channel for engaging new buyers.
  • Improving outlook: Confidence strengthened heading into 2026, with 43% of dealers expecting sales to improve and 38% anticipating stable performance. Sentiment also improved among mid-tier auction houses, reflecting greater optimism despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty.

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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/2026/03/12/the-art-basel-and-ubs-global-art-market-report-2026-global-art-sales-rose-4-to-usd-59-6-billion-in-2025/

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The British Council announces new support for Southeast Asian artisan communities with a 48,000 GBP in funding across the region

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2026 – The British Council has announced a new phase of support for craft artisans and creative entrepreneurs across Southeast Asia, launching a train-the-trainer programme to support the strengthening local creative economies in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam.

Participants take part in a British Council Craft Toolkit training session, designed to equip local trainers with practical business skills to support artisan communities and strengthen sustainable creative livelihoods across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia.

The series of online ‘Craft Toolkit’ trainer programmes were held in early 2026, focused on delivering practical business and skills training to artisan communities. This training was held online and in person with the aim to enhance the sustainability of their practice by teaching business skills.

In new funding support announced, 48,000 GBP will be provided to the Southeast Asian artisan communities to deliver Craft Toolkit training to more artisans across the region. This funding is looking to create lasting local impact in the region to build skills.

Craft Toolkit in Action

Originally developed by the British Council in collaboration with Applied Arts Scotland, the Craft Toolkit is a digital learning platform designed to help craft artisans and entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses. The Toolkit includes five modules covering business planning, product development, sales and marketing, financial management, and sustainability, alongside downloadable resources and train-the-trainer materials.

Between 2019 and 2022, Craft Toolkit training reached artisans in 22 countries worldwide and is available in 12 languages. Ninety-three per cent of participants said the programme helped them find new inspiration, while more than a third reported direct changes in how they design and develop craft products—leading to improved incomes, stronger leadership, and more resilient craft businesses.

Manami Yuasa, Regional Arts Director, East Asia, British Council, said:
 “Across Southeast Asia, craft is both a vital source of livelihood and a powerful expression of cultural identity. By investing in local trainers and providing access to practical, digital learning through the Craft Toolkit, we are supporting artisan communities to strengthen their businesses, preserve their cultural heritage, and build more sustainable futures. This programme is about long-term impact—ensuring skills and knowledge remain rooted in the communities that need them most.”

Training in Southeast Asia

In January and February, the British Council delivered a five-week online train-the-trainer programme. The trainers were selected through British Council partner organisations and craft networks. The trainees who are part of the local craft communities, are committed to delivering Craft Toolkit training within their networks over the following 12 months.

Training was conducted in English, with simultaneous interpretation available in Thai, Vietnamese, Burmese, and Bahasa Indonesia.

The Craft Toolkit modules are currently available in English, Thai, Indonesian, and Malaysian.

By investing in local trainers and digital learning, the British Council aims to support skills development, preserve cultural heritage, empower under-represented communities, and strengthen the creative industries across Southeast Asia.

https://www.britishcouncil.org
https://www.linkedin.com/company/british-council/
https://www.facebook.com/BritishCouncilMalaysia
https://www.instagram.com/my_british/

Hashtag: #BritishCouncil #Malaysia #CraftToolkit #CreativeEconomy #CulturalHeritage #SoutheastAsia

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/2026/03/12/the-british-council-announces-new-support-for-southeast-asian-artisan-communities-with-a-48000-gbp-in-funding-across-the-region/

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Gang members arrested after Bay of Plenty memorial run

Source: New Zealand Police

Persistent Police visibility and strong enforcement sent a clear message to gang members as they came into town for a memorial run last weekend – Police are watching, and we’ll take action when we need to.

The group travelled to the Bay of Plenty District ahead of an event in the small township of Murupara across 7 and 8 March.

In the Bay of Plenty there were several arrests, including three for displaying gang insignia, two for driving with excess breath alcohol, one for obstruction and three for driving while forbidden. A number of infringement notices were also issued.

More than 30 vehicle stops were carried out alongside more than 270 breath tests.

Acting Murupara officer in charge, Detective Sergeant Nathan Marten, said the police visibility and presence was noticed by locals.

“We heard from residents that extra Police in town provided a sense of reassurance. Our high visibility also meant that those involved knew their behaviour was being watched.

“We want our communities to be safe, and we know that sometimes large groups of gang members coming into town can feel intimidating to say the least.

“We’re committed to ensuring everyone feels safe, and holding those who offend to account wherever possible.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/gang-members-arrested-after-bay-of-plenty-memorial-run/

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Kane Williamson ‘modernises’ protective gear after painful blow

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand cricketer Kane Williamson is behind a new business making protective gear for high-impact sports. Jay Drew

Former Black Caps captain Kane Williamson has a very personal reason to be invested in protective gear in high-impact sports.

In 2012, a Dale Steyn delivery during Test against South Africa in Wellington split Williamson’s box in half and caused the Black Cap to think about how protective gear could be modernised and improved.

“It was extremely painful and it just absolutely dropped me,” Williamson said.

“I was hit, my box split, and that made it pretty clear that the protection players were relying on wasn’t up to the demands of the modern game. That started the idea to create a product which can actually provide the protection required.”

It was an incident which is all too familiar at every level of the sport, right from club cricket, through to international, where Australian Captain Mitch Marsh was last month ruled out of the T20 World Cup after being hit in the box by a fast paced delivery in training.

The moment stuck with Williamson and in the following years he helped assemble a team to bring science-backed design into the sports protection category which has changed very little in decades.

After years of research and development, the company is now releasing its first product: a New Zealand-made premium alloy box, engineered to withstand the extreme impacts of high speed projectiles across multiple hard ball sports including cricket, hockey, lacrosse, and baseball.

Kane Williamson’s box that was split when he was hit by a delivery from Dale Steyn. supplied

Co-founder Jason Low oversaw the initial development and testing of the box.

“We wanted to do this properly, so we took a scientific and data driven approach towards our research and development programme,” Low said.

“For a long time, this space has leaned on tradition rather than proof. In testing, our box has handled ball speeds well over 200 kilometres an hour, while most existing options start to fail at around 100. That margin of safety gives players real confidence when they’re out there.”

The business is backed by a group of investors including New Zealand Cricket, while former Black Cap Grant Elliott is leading the organisation’s commercial programme.

“We’ve put the box in front of a wide range of cricketers, from club cricket through to elite, and the response has been extremely positive,” Elliott said.

“It’s been built with care and rigour, and is for any cricket player, no matter their level. In my view, it’s the best box in the world. It’s comfortable to wear, durable, and does a great job of reducing pain on impact.”

Kane Williamson checks his box after being hit in the groin during the third Test versus South Africa at the Basin Reserve in 2012. Andrew Cornaga/Photosport

Williamson has been wearing the product throughout the summer and says the difference is obvious.

“A few months ago I took a quick one flush in the box and I remember thinking “that should have hurt more than it did”.

“The most important factor is that it gives you confidence,” he said. “When you trust your protection, you can play more freely.”

Cover’s launch is part of Williamson’s long term ambition to leave cricket in a better place.

“For me, this is about helping the next generation. If we can raise the standard of protection, we can improve confidence, performance, and safety for everyone who plays the game.”

More protective categories will follow from the company.

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/2026/03/12/kane-williamson-modernises-protective-gear-after-painful-blow/

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Wellington Water apologises for smell after turning fan on at Moa Point

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Wellington Water has apologised to south coast residents after some complained of smells coming from its waste treatment plant late last night.

Crews at Moa Point wastewater treatment plant restarted its ventilation system to remove gases and smells from the facility yesterday, causing complaints from locals.

The plant had been forced to shut down in February a catastrophic failure in February, which has spewed tens of millions of litres of untreated sewage into the sea, and shut some south coast beaches for a period.

This was the first use of its fan since the flooding. Wellington Water had not anticipated smells to impact surrounding neighbourhoods.

Portable fans had previously been used to air the facility, with no noticeable odour for the wider community, Wellington Water said, and and the plant itself had been cleaned.

“We apologise for not notifying the community of this activity. We are committed to keeping the community informed of any operational activity that may have an impact on them, and we will do all we can to provide advance notice of any risk of increased odour,” it said.

The organisation warned locals that its odour-treatment systems were not “operational” and that there was an “ongoing risk of a low level of odour”.

“We are doing all we can to monitor odour onsite and mitigate the impact of odour on the community,” a spokesperson 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/2026/03/12/wellington-water-apologises-for-smell-after-turning-fan-on-at-moa-point/

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Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Pasifika TV

Source: New Zealand Government

[Speech to the Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Ltd (PCBL) conference, 6pm, 12 March, New Zealand International Conference Centre, Auckland]

Good evening –

Our hosts, the Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Limited, particularly Board Chair Brent Impey and Chief Executive Natasha Melesia; 

Pacific broadcasting partners from across the region; 

Members of the diplomatic corps; 

Members of the media, government, and other partners; 

 It is a pleasure to be here today on the PCBL’s 10th Anniversary, marking 10 years of Pasifika TV on air across our Pacific region. Happy anniversary and warm greetings to you all. 

 It’s great you are all able to come together here in New Zealand to celebrate this momentous achievement. And as with many small broadcasting operations across the Pacific, collegiality, creativity, and the ability to solve problems is essential. 

 We are proud to have been your partner every step of the way. One of our great strengths as a region is our commitment to democratic governance. The work you do, as the Fourth Estate, helps to make our societies more connected and more robust.

New Zealand’s Place in the Pacific 

 We have spoken throughout this term about the importance New Zealand places on our region, the Pacific. This region is a core pillar of New Zealand’s foreign policy. Why? Because New Zealand is a Pacific country – we share history, geography, DNA, culture, sports, and religion. 

 Around one in four New Zealanders have Māori or Pasifika heritage. These connections shape our worldview and the responsibilities we accept as a member of the Pacific family. 

 And we see New Zealanders enriching Pacific countries too – through the expansion of New Zealand businesses into the region, through churches, and sports, our tourists, and those supporting development. This two-way, reciprocal exchange is essential. 

 Travel and Recent Engagements 

 The Pacific Reset reinforces that our identity, our security and our prosperity are inextricably linked with the Pacific. We have not only increased investment through our International Development Cooperation programme in the region, but we have been present, listening to our Pacific partners, and carrying those messages home. 

 Our travel has reaffirmed a simple but enduring truth: in the Pacific, there is no substitute for ‘talanoa’, having face-to-face engagement, listening carefully, and strengthening the bonds shaped by the challenges we face and our shared region and history.  Our recent engagements underscored these priorities and highlighted the deep alignment between New Zealand and our Pacific partners. 

 During our recent visit to Kiribati, our discussions and the signing of a new Statement of Partnership deepened a relationship grounded in respect, cooperation, and a mutual commitment to addressing shared challenges. This visit also marked a significant milestone for us: during the current Parliamentary term, we have now visited all 17 fellow Pacific Islands Forum member states, demonstrating New Zealand’s steadfast dedication to regional partnership.

 During these visits we saw the results of New Zealand’s work with Pacific partners to build better infrastructure, to manage our fisheries, strengthen public financial management, education and health systems, and to improve disaster preparedness. 

The New Betio Hospital, which we visited in South Tarawa in January, is a great example of our approach.  It is a high-quality, fit for purpose facility, built on a strong partnership between the Governments of New Zealand and Kiribati, with support from Japan and the Asian Development Bank.  It stands as a symbol of the impact we can have by working together to support Pacific development. 

Connectivity 

 Everywhere we’ve been, our counterparts have stressed the importance of connectivity: physical and digital. Pacific Leaders are clear to us that secure, resilient, and affordable digital infrastructure is essential to national development and regional cooperation. Digital systems underpin access to education and health, enable financial inclusion, expand economic opportunities, and connect remote communities to essential services. It means people can access online content, including broadcasting. 

 Achieving meaningful digital integration requires investment in undersea cables, satellite connectivity, and cyber resilience. It requires building local digital skills, supporting safe online spaces, and strengthening regional interoperability so systems can work across borders. 

 For New Zealand, partnering on digital transformation is both a practical responsibility and an expression of our Pacific identity. Harnessing digital transformation reduces distances, enhances disaster response, supports transparency, and enables broader participation in the digital economy. Ultimately, digital integration is not simply a technical challenge—it is an investment in sovereignty, opportunity, and the unity of our Blue Pacific Continent. 

 Technology is moving quickly in the region to support broadcasting.  As Pacific broadcasters move to digital, local broadcasters begin to have access to multiple channels. This creates an opportunity for digital transformation platforms as connectivity improves, spreading its reach to wider Pacific audiences. 

 This is important because we know that broadcasting and media in the Pacific play a critical role in fostering democracy, ensuring safety, and preserving culture in communities spread across the vast Pacific Ocean.  Media supports democracy by holding those in power to account, providing public service announcements, and promoting civic education. 

 Our ongoing support to PCBL reinforces the importance that New Zealand places on media freedom and a resilient, vibrant and regionally connected Pacific media sector. PCBL is a critical partner. It connects the world to the region during emergencies. And it supports local broadcasters to produce factual and locally relevant media content. New Zealand has been a proud provider of free-to-air content to the PCBL, and in the spirit of our shared love for sports, we are launching an initiative to support PCBL’s capacity to competitively negotiate and secure rights to show major live sports to Pacific audiences. 

 Talanoa is critical in the Pacific, but distance is a challenge. This has been raised with us on our travels, and we have been determined to break down that barrier, including through supporting leaders get to key regional meetings such as the Pacific Islands Forum. If we want regional responses to our challenges, we need regional leaders and our people to connect. 

 The Government is backing up these words with action. I’m pleased to announce tonight that from the 1st of June this year, we are decreasing the total cost of applying for a visitor visa for Pacific nationals from $216 to just $161, for a 12-month period. This is part of New Zealand’s ongoing work to reduce the barriers, including cost, to Pacific visitors travelling to New Zealand. 

This is another practical update to visitor visa settings that reduces cost, supports easier travel, and helps to strengthen the relationships that matter most. This builds on earlier changes, such as longer visa durations and the current visa-free trial for Pacific travellers coming from Australia. 

 Partnership in difficult times 

 Strengthening our people-to-people connections is important when our strategic environment in the region is increasingly complex. The region is navigating sharper great power competition alongside climate and transnational risks that do not respect borders. In these difficult times, regionalism is essential. 

Pacific leaders are clear: they seek cooperation, stability, and sovereignty — not division.  The Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent remains our shared framework for long-term resilience, security, and prosperity. 

 New Zealand’s position is steady and principled. Pacific countries know they can turn to New Zealand in times of need. We’re continue to invest a range of initiatives that invests in the Pacific preparedness against physical and cyber threats, without adding pressure or duplication. We will also never shy away from having frank, mature, conversations with our Pacific family of nations, and we will continue to advocate for the Pacific – including on the global stage. 

 In an increasingly contested world, values matter. Our collective approaches and our regional architecture, like the Pacific Islands Forum, help guard against the ability of big, powerful countries to divide us. Together we can hold firm to our principles, enhancing the power of the region as a whole. Throughout these challenging times, our guiding principle is unchanged: to work with Pacific partners in ways that honour sovereignty, respond to local priorities, and support long-term resilience. 

 As we look forward to New Zealand’s hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum in 2027, New Zealand will be working to ensure our region is connected and unified. We will use our hosting of the Forum to strengthen the region’s relationships with partners who share our regional values, and who can contribute positively to the region’s prosperity and resilience and to its development. 

 Consensus, respect, and dialogue have defined Pacific diplomacy since the early years of regionalism – they are The Pacific Way. The Pacific Way guides us to engage constructively, to listen carefully, and to move forward collectively even when the issues before us are challenging. At a time of shifting geopolitical currents, the Pacific Way reminds us that partnership is a strength, that sovereignty is to be respected, and that solutions must be Pacific-led and Pacific-owned. 

 Closing 

 The Pacific has a long tradition of navigating vast oceans with courage, vision, and unity. New Zealand is committed to continue working within the Pacific family of nations—listening first, aligning second, and delivering always. 

 In closing, let us reflect on the goal that was established a decade ago by PBCL – to build and support an empowered, resilient and sustainable Pacific broadcasting community which supports informed, open and democratic societies, and regional cohesion. 

 Congratulations again on the first 10 years and all the best for the remainder of your conference. 

 Thank you

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/celebrating-the-10th-anniversary-of-pasifika-tv/

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Police Association and Retail NZ warn dangers of potential changes to Crimes Act

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police Association president Steve Watt VNP / Phil Smith

  • Police Association and Retail NZ warn that people could die if new powers for citizens’ arrests and detaining criminals pass into law
  • Ministerial advisory group chairman says retailers need more powers to protect themselves
  • Supermarket giant worries about weapons.

Politicians considering wideranging changes to the Crimes Act, including widening the powers of citizens arrests and allowing retailers to detain suspected offenders, have received a stark warning.

Some of the proposed changes could result in deaths, the Justice Select Committee was told today.

The Police Association and Retail NZ say that as well as potentially ending in tragedy, this could see retailers in the dock charged with manslaughter.

The proposals stem from the work of the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime, whose chairman Sunny Kaushal today made a plea for tougher laws.

‘A licence to assault’

Police Association president Steve Watt didn’t mince words when conveying the organisation’s concerns should ordinary citizens have more powers to detain suspected criminals.

“We’re trained to recognise positional asphyxiation where general members of the public are not, and we still do not get it right every time.

“The reality of the bill passing as it is it could actually result in death.”

When questioned Watt agreed manslaughter charges could be laid.

A law change would raise serious legal questions, too.

“This is seen as giving a licence to assault and a perception of legal protection for risky behaviour, for which an onus would be placed on those using such force to prove that it was reasonable.

“There is little to no understanding amongst ordinary citizens around the legal definition of reasonable force,” Watt said.

At the moment citizens arrests can only be carried out in very specific circumstances, such as when an offence happens at night or when a crime is being carried out that’s punishable by at least three years imprisonment.

More powers needed – Sunny Kaushal

Kaushal was asked by Labour’s police spokeswoman Ginny Andersen about the Police Association’s concerns.

Chairman for the Ministerial Advisory Group for Victims of Retail Crime, Sunny Kaushal. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“Wasn’t the Police Association concerned for the gang patch law as well, right? Here we need to be sensible. We need to see what works for New Zealand,” he said.

Kaushal was staunchly on-message about why retailers needed more powers to protect themselves, saying retail crime cost $2.7 billion a year.

“In 2019 we had 4000 monthly reports of retail crime. By the end of 2023 there were over 11,000 monthly reports.

“It went from one ram raid every three days to three ram raids every day.

“It leaves behind destruction, trauma and pain.”

Kaushal appeared at the committee alongside Upper Hutt retailer Suraj Parkash Sund to illustrate his point that the law doesn’t favour victims.

Sund slept on the floor of his business to ward off robbers, after his shop was repeatedly targeted, Kaushal said.

“Last month police caught the offenders – a 20-year-old, a few teenagers and a 9-year-old.

“Recently Suraj received an invitation to attend a family group conference. The purpose of the meeting? To see how to best support the offenders who have destroyed his life, not support for him.”

Worries about weapons

Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young was until a couple of months ago a member of the ministerial advisory group alongside Kaushal.

Retail NZ chief executive Carolyn Young. Supplied

Even then she criticised the citizens’ arrests proposal, and doubled down on that today.

“Retail NZ members have major concerns that the citizens’ arrest provisions within this bill would expose retailers, staff and their customers to increased risks or physical danger, and could result in serious harm or even death.”

Young said stores weren’t properly equipped to hold people, and there could be problems if police couldn’t immediately respond if an offender were detained.

Woolworths head of safety, health and wellbeing Denva Wren said retail crime cost the supermarket giant $30 million a year.

It was spending millions more than that on improved security measures, such as better CCTV. However, it did not support widening citizens’ arrests powers.

“We do believe that offenders will likely escalate much more quickly with the pre-emptive expectation that, potentially, citizens’ arrests could be used, and therefore they come in greater prepared with weapons.

“We have edge weapons and iron bars, and our team are being threatened by these on a weekly basis – generally about 60 to 70 serious events a year.”

Woolworths was also concerned customers would expect workers to intervene in dangerous situations, even if that was against company policy.

Employers and Manufacturers Association head of advocacy Alan McDonald said allowing retail workers to physically detain someone could cause problems under health and safety laws.

“There’s also another part of the law that says that if you feel you are being unlawfully restrained you may resist and use reasonable force to resist.

“You can see how that’s going to ramp up, because the people, particularly often those underage people who are doing these raids, know exactly what they can and can’t do.”

The Crimes Amendment Bill also includes provisions about tougher penalties for shoplifting and assaults on first responders, as well as coward punches and modern slavery.

The select committee will write its report on the bill, before it goes for its second reading in Parliament.

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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/2026/03/12/police-association-and-retail-nz-warn-dangers-of-potential-changes-to-crimes-act/

Posted on

Fuel costs could drive New Zealand trucking businesses to the ground

Source: Radio New Zealand

More than 90 percent of freight in Aotearoa is moved by road.

Increased fuel costs could drive some trucking businesses under, according to an industry association.

War in the Middle East has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane, meaning oil prices are volatile.

On Thursday, the price of oil again rose to more than US$100 per barrel.

The rise in oil prices could cause the cost of goods to rise as more than 90 percent of freight in Aotearoa is moved by road.

The New Zealand Trucking Association said fuel’s now overtaken labour as the highest cost for trucking companies. It said fuel now accounts for 30 percent of operating costs, up around eight to 10 percent from before the recent conflict in the Middle East.

NZ Trucking Association CEO David Boyce told Checkpoint the increase in fuel was concerning.

“It’s pretty tough out there… For some, this will be the straw that breaks the back, so to speak,” he said.

“But it’s a pretty resilient industry. There will be plenty that will hang on and hope that this is only a short-lived blip on the radar.”

Boyce said there has been a “wild fluctuation” in price, with diesel up 35 percent this week.

He said it won’t take long for the increase in costs to trickle down to consumers.

“Transport operators run pretty lean and mean on their pricing. There’s not much wriggle room for them to absorb costs, so they really have to pass it on to their customers straight away,” he said.

Boyce is confident we won’t run out of diesel, saying there was around 25 days supply of diesel in New Zealand, and another 29 days supply being shipped here.

“Assuming that supply that’s coming here is not interrupted or compromised, we’ll be covered. But if some of those ships get redirected or some untoward act happens, things could change quickly.”

Meanwhile, the Commerce Commission said it is ramping up its monitoring and scrutiny of fuel prices and will react to any pricing behaviours that are cause for concern.

Commissioner Bryan Chappel said the commission won’t hesitate to call out unjustified price hikes at the pump.

He said the commission would provide updates on retail fuel price movements and compare them with changes in the cost of importing fuel on its website.

Chappel said motorists should shop around and use tools like the Gaspy app to compare prices.

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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/2026/03/12/fuel-costs-could-drive-new-zealand-trucking-businesses-to-the-ground/