Category: LiveNews

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Researches teach computer made from human brain cells to play ‘Doom’

Source: Radio New Zealand

SPENCER PLATT

Researchers at Melbourne start-up Cortical Labs have taught their “biological computer” made from living human brain cells to play Doom.

They say it brings biological computers a step closer to real-world uses, such as drug-testing or robotics applications.

Cortical Labs synthetic biological intelligence scientist Dr Alon Loeffler told Midday Report it was the “first code-deployable biological computer”.

“We like to call it neurocomputer, made out of about 200,000 to 800,000 cells that were taken from stem cells and turned into brain cells,” he said.

“Then we had an early access user, a customer of ours, in one-week programme the game Doom, or a free version of Doom, without the copyright restrictions, so that the cells can navigate this environment and try and beat the game.”

He said the cells were very similar to what would be in a real-life brain.

Loeffler said while they were human brain cells, they were not taken from people’s brains, but rather from blood donations.

“We take blood donations from willing volunteers and donors and then our amazing biology team does some biology magic, which is science, but I think of it as magic.

“They turn these blood cells into stem cells, similar to what in the past you’d have to take out of embryos, but now you can just get them from skin cells or blood cells.

“Then those are converted to brain cells or cortical cells, which are then placed on a Petri dish, and we can record the electrical activity from the cells because they communicate via electrical signals, similar to how they would in the brain.”

In that sense, they were alive, he said.

‘Learning to improve over time’

Loeffler said because the system didn’t have sensory inputs such as eyes or ears, the question was how they would encode the information.

A lot of research had gone into that, he said.

“We’re still in the very early stages of understanding that, but the idea is, for example, in the Doom game, if there’s an enemy or demon that appears on the left side, you can send in an electrical input on the left side of the chip, and if it’s on the right side, you could send in an electrical signal on the right side of the chip.

“This is obviously a much more condensed version and simplified version, but then the response of the culture would then kind of tell the game or tell the controller what to do, to move to the left or to move to the right, for example.”

Loeffler admitted the computer was not very good at the game, but would outperform a model that shot randomly.

He said it was “learning to improve over time”.

Loeffler said there were several real-world applications it could be applied to, such as drug development and testing.

“You can test all sorts of different drugs on these cells, and they’ll perform much more similar to biological systems,” he said.

“They’re also much more similar to brains than animal models, so you can kind of remove the need for mice and chimpanzees and sheep in animal models. You could also potentially use them for robotics applications.

“It’s one thing that biological systems are really good at doing, which AI is terrible at doing, is navigating new and changing environments.”

He said if they could improve its ability to understand inputs, they would be able to navigate an environment in a more biological way.

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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/2026/03/11/researches-teach-computer-made-from-human-brain-cells-to-play-doom/

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Feedback sought on orange roughy closures

Source: New Zealand Government

Proposals to close parts of the Chatham Rise orange roughy fishery to protect spawning areas and help rebuild the fishery are open for public consultation, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says.

“The East and South Chatham Rise orange roughy fishery is under pressure and needs careful management to recover.

“I took the first step last year when I significantly cut commercial catch limits for the fishery. At that time, I also directed officials to investigate options to protect orange roughy spawning areas in the fishery to help numbers to grow.

“These new options to close spawning areas are based on the best available scientific information. The information shows fishing on groups of spawning orange roughy has a big impact on abundance because it reduces the fishery’s ability to replenish.”

There are three potential closure areas of different sizes included in the proposals, representing options for protecting the main spawning orange roughy spawning sites. 

For each option there is the possibility of either a seasonal closure covering the main spawning period from 1 June to 16 July, or a year-round closure.  

“The Chatham Rise fishery has supported jobs and our export industry for many years. Ensuring sustainability is important so the fishery continues to benefit New Zealand. I encourage people to have their say,” Mr Jones says. 

More information on the proposals, including how to make a submission, can be found on MPI’s website.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/feedback-sought-on-orange-roughy-closures/

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Gang members arrested after raids targeting Christchurch Mongrel Mob

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police discovered a “chop shop” and recovered several stolen vehicles. (File photo) 123RF

Two Mongrel Mob members have been arrested following raids targeting the gang in Christchurch and north Canterbury, police say.

Officers also seized cash, methamphetamine, guns and vehicles after searching properties linked to gang members over the past fortnight.

Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells said officers found several guns and ammunition.

“Police also discovered a ‘chop shop’ and have been able to recover several stolen vehicles,” Wells said.

“A further five vehicles were seized by the courts due to unpaid fines. As a result, two men, who are both patched Mongrel Mob members, were arrested. They are remanded in custody, due to reappear in the Christchurch District Court in the coming weeks.”

A 34-year-old and a 29-year-old were facing drug dealing and possession charges as well as charges relating to driving and unlawfully possessing ammunition.

“Police are not ruling out further charges,” Wells said.

Anyone with information or concerns about illegal activity should contact police via 111 or 105 or CrimeStoppers via 0800 555 111.

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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/2026/03/11/gang-members-arrested-after-raids-targeting-christchurch-mongrel-mob/

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Education – MIT and Unitec showcase united vision at ASB Polyfest

Source: Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and Unitec

Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland – 11 March 2026 – One Waka. One Future. Manukau Institute of Technology (MIT) and Unitec will present a powerful symbol of unity and shared purpose at ASB Polyfest 2026, unveiling a joint presence that reflects their unification this year as a single organisation serving our communities and learners in Tāmaki Makaurau-Auckland.

ASB Polyfest will be held across two events in 2026: the Pacific and Diversity Stages from 18–21 March at the Manukau Sports Bowl and Te Paparewa Māori stage from 30 March–2 April at the Due Drop Event Centre.
At the heart of MIT and Unitec’s presence this year will be a shared marquee – which brings to life Tāmaki Waka Hourua, a values framework guiding MIT and Unitec as they align their strengths, expertise and aspirations in one shared direction and purpose.
Waka Hourua, means ‘a double-hulled canoe’ and symbolises what were previously two institutions now travelling forward together alongside the communities they’ve proudly served for over 50 years.
Director Maori Education, Dr Wiremu Manaia explains: “This framework is grounded in core Māori principles:Whakapapa – the ancestral line that binds crew and vessel, Mana whakahaere – authority and responsibility to steer, Kotahitanga – unity of purpose, Mauri – the collective life force.”
These principles align with this year’s Polyfest theme, “Ko au ko te Taiao! Ko te Taiao ko au! He Toa Taiao Taiohi nō te Moana nui a Kiwa, āke, ake, ake!” (“The environment lives in me, as I live in it – a Pacific Youth Eco-Warrior for generations to come”).
MIT and Unitec’s shared presence represents a unified future under the guiding whakataukī:
“Nā te kaha ka whakatutuki, nā te kotahitanga ka whai hua.”
With strength we achieve; through unity we succeed.

A Defining Year. A Legacy Spanning More Than Two Decades
As Polyfest celebrates its 51st year, MIT and Unitec’s united presence marks a defining milestone.

In January 2026, the two institutions formally came together as the largest on campus provider of vocational education in Aotearoa New Zealand — a single, independent regional entity focused on delivering stronger outcomes for learners, industry and communities across Auckland.
Polyfest, widely recognised as Australasia’s largest secondary school cultural festival, will once again draw more than 80,000 visitors across six cultural stages representing the Cook Islands, Diversity, Māori, Niue, Samoa and Tonga.
MIT and Unitec’s presence at Polyfest builds on a longstanding relationship with the festival and the communities it represents.
“Although MIT and Unitec have come together as a new joint entity, our long and proud history of serving our communities and learners across Tāmaki Makaurau for more than 50 years remains as strong as ever. Our presence again this year at ASB Polyfest reflects that commitment,” says Executive Director, Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga.
For more than 20 years, our institutions have stood alongside the festival — supporting ākonga (students) as they develop confidence, cultural pride and leadership.
“Unitec became the first tertiary sponsor of Polyfest in 2003. MIT proudly sponsored the Niue stage in 2010, and together we sponsored the Tongan stage in 2025. These milestones reflect a deep and enduring relationship with a festival that celebrates the identity, culture, and aspirations of our Pacific communities,” Peseta says.

Visible Unity, Stronger Pathways

Polyfest is more than a cultural festival — it’s a powerful platform where education can lift the hopes and aspirations of Pacific youth.
“Through events like this, we can help young people see the pathways available to them in education and employment with our schools,” Peseta says.
“At MIT and Unitec, we are incredibly proud of our Pacific learners. They are achieving great qualifications and going on to strong career outcomes, contributing their skills and leadership back into their communities and across the country.”
MIT and Unitec are strengthening pathways from secondary school to tertiary study and employment. As one organisation, they offer broader programme options, enhanced learner support, deeper industry connections and a regionally focused approach designed specifically for Auckland.
“We’re continuing to strengthen our relationships with schools, families and communities across the region. This week, we welcomed careers advisors from across Aucklan to connect with our teams and learn more about the opportunities available for their students,” Peseta says.
For high schools, whānau and communities attending Polyfest, the message is clear: MIT and Unitec are united, future-focused and committed to being the education provider of choice for Auckland’s young people — now and for generations to come.
Want to know more about our course offerings, programmes and career pathways at MIT and Unitec? Find us at the MIT and Unitec Marquee at Polyfest. Come meet our amazing kaimahi (staff), take a selfie at our activations, or leave a message.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/education-mit-and-unitec-showcase-united-vision-at-asb-polyfest/

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Missing man located, Horeke

Source: New Zealand Police

A 64-year-old man who went missing in the Far North last night has been located safe and well after spending a night in the bush.

Police received a report at around 8.45pm that a man had become separated from his group during a walk near Horeke.

Detective Inspector Geoff McCarthy, of Northland Police, says the man did not have a phone on him and the weather was deteriorating.

“Police and Land Search and Rescue activated at 10pm and searched large areas of bush through the night.”

With no sign of the man by daybreak, the Horeke community rallied together to help find him.

“This morning, Police and LandSAR received extensive assistance from the community and the man’s whānau.”

“The man was located safe and sound at around 9.30am, and was able to walk out of the bush,” Detective Inspector McCarthy says

Police appreciate the support received from the local community.

“Police would like to thank the Horeke community for their help in locating him.”

ENDS

Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/missing-man-located-horeke/

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Vehicle seized after anti-social road user activity in Porirua cemetery

Source: New Zealand Police

On Monday 9 March at about 7.30pm, Police received multiple reports from members of the public of a blue Ford Falcon car speeding within the grounds of the Whenua Tapu Cemetery in Porirua.
Inspector Renee Perkins, Area Commander Kapiti-Mana, says “It is alleged the driver of the Ford vehicle, drove recklessly in the grounds of the cemetery for about 15 minutes, along with other vehicles. It’s lucky no one was hurt due to this dangerous behaviour.”

“Thanks to information provided by the public, and through our initial enquiries, we were able to seize one of the vehicles and we continue our search for the other vehicles and their drivers. This real time information is crucial in helping us know where to be and assists in our investigations, allowing us to take action like seizing vehicles and holding those responsible to account.

“Not only is this a dangerous activity within a cemetery, but it is also incredibly disrespectful for a place where people go to grieve and remember their loved ones who have passed.”

Anita Baker Mayor of Porirua says “This type of dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated. It costs money to fix damage left by unruly drivers. We are grateful to members of the public who contacted Police at the time the incident was taking place.” 

If anyone witnessed this incident or has CCTV or dashcam footage and is yet to contact us to please do so.

If you have information that can assist in our enquiries, you can contact us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking ‘Update Report’, using the reference number P065700148.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/vehicle-seized-after-anti-social-road-user-activity-in-porirua-cemetery/

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Kawatiri Coastal Trail wins Outdoor Access Champion Award

Source: Herenga ā Nuku – the Outdoor Access Commission

A new trail across one of Aotearoa’s most historic, fascinating and naturally abundant coastlines has won a prestigious national award for championing public outdoor access.
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail in the Buller District has been named a 2026 Outdoor Access Champion by the Outdoor Access Commission.
This award recognises the Charleston-to-Westport Coastal Trail Trust’s decade-long commitment to developing the 40-kilometre Kawatiri Coastal Trail and securing enduring, inclusive public access across one of Aotearoa’s most culturally and ecologically rich coastlines.
Completed in March 2025, the Grade 2 walking and cycling trail stretches from Westport to Charleston, connecting communities, landscapes, stories, and generations.
Event details
Outdoor Access Champion Award Ceremony – Kawatiri Coastal Trail 
Date: Thursday, 19 March 2026 
Time: 4:00pm 
Venue: Star Tavern, 6 Lighthouse Road, Cape Foulwind
Partnership and perseverance
The Charleston-Westport Coastal Trail Trust worked in close partnership with Ngāti Waewae, the Department of Conservation, Buller District Council, MBIE’s Kānoa – Regional Economic Development Unit, Development West Coast, and many others to bring the trail to life.
The trust’s achievement in securing public access across complex land tenure is exceptional. Access arrangements were reached with 10 private landowners, covering 27% of the trail. Seven of those agreements – representing 23% of the whole route – are legally enduring walkway easements under the Walking Access Act 2008.
Herenga ā Nuku Chief Executive Dan Wildy says the trail shows what local communities can achieve when they work together.
“The Kawatiri Coastal Trail is a nationally significant model of how public access can be created and protected through partnership, goodwill, and determination. The trust has built an enduring legacy for the people of Buller, New Zealand, and international visitors now drawn to this remarkable trail.”
A community asset
The trail has made it much easier for the region’s residents and visitors to access and enjoy the outdoors. Its wide, smooth surface supports walkers, runners, families, e-bikers, and hand-bike users, making recreation inclusive for people of all ages and abilities.
More than 40,000 users will enjoy the trail each year, with local schools, community groups, and visitors engaging in environmental education, heritage learning, and shared outdoor experiences.
Richard Niederer, Kawatiri Coastal Trail Trust Chairperson, says the Charleston-Westport Coastal Trail Trust is extremely honoured to be a recipient of the 2026 Outdoor Access Champion Award.
“Coupled with the feedback from visitors and locals alike who are using the trail, we have created a community and publicly accessible asset which will be enjoyed for years to come.”
Environment and culture
The Kawatiri Coastal Trail has facilitated extensive ecological restoration, including 25,000 native plantings and 200 maintained predator traps to support kiwi, bittern and other native species.
Interpretation panels celebrate tangata whenua heritage, archaeology, geology, and local history stretching back 700 years. The trail’s partnership with Ngāti Waewae means it respects and supports tikanga-ā-iwi and significant sites, including the whare and interpretation signs at Whare Ngāhue.
Regional economic development
The trail is already delivering economic benefits to the district, strengthening regenerative tourism and supporting new local enterprises. Visitors are spending more time and money in the region, with extended stays and increased off-season visits, boosting community resilience. Research indicates the trail will be worth $79 million to the region by 2031.
As well as the more than 60 jobs created during the construction of the Kawatiri Coastal Trail, the trust estimates around 100 jobs will be created over the next 10 years in support of the trail. Zak Shaw from Development West Coast’s Nature Economy Project says the Kawatiri Coastal Trail receiving this award reflects the strength of local collaboration that brought the trail to life.
“Over the past several months we’ve seen just how popular the trail has become, with more people choosing to visit Buller to experience it for themselves. That growing visitation is incredibly positive for the region, supporting local businesses, creating opportunities for communities, and reinforcing the value of investing in world-class nature experiences. Inspired by local creative vision, the Kawatiri Coastal Trail connects rainforest to coastline, history to habitat, and locals to visitors, all in a single day.”
Volunteers and the community
Volunteers contribute more than 3,000 hours each year to fundraising, trail building, restoration, trapping, planting, maintenance, events, and governance. Their work means the trail remains safe, vibrant, and ecologically healthy.
“This award honours everyone who has contributed – the Charleston-Westport Coastal Trail Trust, Ngāti Waewae, landowners, council, agencies, funders, volunteers, and supporters,” says Wildy. “Together they’ve created opportunities for everyone to access and enjoy the environment, today and for generations to come.”
A thank you for opening up the great outdoors
The Outdoor Access Commission, Herenga ā Nuku Aotearoa, has awarded Outdoor Access Champion Awards annually since 2013. A small group of winners are selected from nominees who have made significant and lasting contributions to public access to the outdoors in New Zealand. Nominations for 2027 will open in September.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/kawatiri-coastal-trail-wins-outdoor-access-champion-award/

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Exercise Industry Defies Economic Headwinds: Growth & Trust Continues

Source: Exercise NZ

“In a time when many sectors are experiencing contraction, the exercise industry is showing steady and meaningful growth. New Zealanders continue to prioritise their health and wellbeing, recognising that exercise is not a luxury, it’s an essential part of living well.”

“There has never been more information available, but not all of it is accurate or safe,”

“In New Zealand we’re fortunate to have REPs (the Register of Exercise Professionals), an independent body that verifies exercise professionals and requires them to maintain recognised qualifications and annual registration… This helps ensure New Zealanders receive safe, trusted, evidence-based guidance tailored to their individual needs.”

“Even in uncertain times, New Zealanders are choosing to invest in their health. The exercise industry is not just weathering economic challenges, it’s growing, adapting, and playing a critical role in improving the physical and mental well-being of our communities.”

New Zealand’s exercise industry continues to grow despite economic uncertainty, with new consumer research showing increasing participation, strong long-term demand, and rising trust in qualified exercise professionals.

The latest Exercise New Zealand consumer survey found that an estimated 2.67 million adults (69%) now exercise, representing continued growth and a clear signal that exercise remains a priority for Kiwis, even during financially challenging times. Of those, over 993,000 regularly exercise at structured exercise facilities such as gyms and studios, representing 26% of adults,  a significant increase from 22% in 2024.

Perhaps even more positive for the exercise industry is the potential for further growth. A further 192,000 New Zealanders who do not currently use an exercise professional indicated they intend to start within the next six months, representing a potential 19% increase in demand for professional exercise services.

Exercise New Zealand Chief Executive Richard Beddie says the findings demonstrate the industry’s resilience and its growing importance to the wellbeing of New Zealanders.

“In a time when many sectors are experiencing contraction, the exercise industry is showing steady and meaningful growth. New Zealanders continue to prioritise their health and wellbeing, recognising that exercise is not a luxury, it’s an essential part of living well.”

Participation in structured exercise has reached record levels, with nearly one million adults now engaging with gyms, studios, or exercise professionals, reflecting a growing demand for guided, supportive environments.

The research also highlights strong future growth potential. Approximately 19% more adults are considering using an exercise professional in the coming year, signalling continued expansion in demand for qualified support.

Trusted Professionals Matter

In an era where social media and online platforms are saturated with unverified fitness advice, the research reinforces the critical role of qualified exercise professionals. More New Zealanders are actively choosing to work with trained professionals, recognising the value of expert guidance, safety, motivation, and personalised programmes.

“There has never been more information available, but not all of it is accurate or safe,” says Beddie.

Exercise professionals also play a key role in supporting broader wellbeing outcomes. People who engage with structured exercise providers are more likely to experience benefits, including improved mental health, increased confidence, and healthier overall lifestyles.

“In New Zealand we’re fortunate to have REPs (the Register of Exercise Professionals), an independent body that verifies exercise professionals and requires them to maintain recognised qualifications and annual registration,” says Beddie. “This helps ensure New Zealanders receive safe, trusted, evidence-based guidance tailored to their individual needs.”

Their training, certification, and accountability give New Zealanders confidence that they are receiving safe and effective advice from qualified professionals.

A Positive Future

The research confirms that exercise continues to hold strong perceived value, with 98% of New Zealanders recognising physical activity as important, and growing numbers seeing exercise as central to mental health, lifestyle, and overall wellbeing.

Exercise New Zealand says the results highlight both resilience and opportunity for the sector.

“Even in uncertain times, New Zealanders are choosing to invest in their health. The exercise industry is not just weathering economic challenges, it’s growing, adapting, and playing a critical role in improving the physical and mental well-being of our communities.”

Exercise New Zealand encourages all New Zealanders to seek support from registered, qualified exercise professionals to ensure safe, effective, and sustainable progress toward their health goals. For more information on this release or to arrange an interview, contact Richard Beddie at richard@exercisenz.org.nz or P: 0800 66 88 11, M: 027-520-5744.

Note: Data was collected through an independent third party, Horizon Research, as a part of ExerciseNZ annual consumer research.

LiveNews: https://enz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/exercise-industry-defies-economic-headwinds-growth-trust-continues/

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Why you might want to clean your headphones

Source: Radio New Zealand

Whether it’s enjoying a podcast, listening to music or chatting on the phone, many of us spend hours a day using our headphones. One 2017 study of 4185 Australians showed they used headphones on average 47–88 hours a month.

Health advice about headphones tends to focus on how loud sounds might affect our hearing. For example, to avoid hearing loss, the World Health Organization advises people to keep the volume at below 60 percent their device’s maximum and to use devices that monitor sound exposure and limit volume.

But apart from sound, what else is going in our ears? Using headphones – particularly in-ear versions such as earbuds – blocks the ear canal and puts the skin in contact with any dirt or bacteria they may be carrying.

We generally only notice earwax when there’s too much.

Alexander_P/Shutterstock

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/11/why-you-might-want-to-clean-your-headphones/

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National would only support ‘gold standard’ live animal exports, Todd McClay says

Source: Radio New Zealand

Todd McClay says he does not think there will be a resumption of live animal exports any time soon. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The National Party has withdrawn its support for resuming live animal exports by sea.

Animal Welfare Minister Andrew Hoggard announced on Tuesday that the government would not get round to resuming the trade this term as there were more pressing matters.

The government vowed to reinstate the trade with a new gold standard of animal welfare, but after making it into ACT and National’s coalition agreement – the plan seemed to get lost in the cogs of Parliament.

Speaking to Midday Report Minister of Agriculture Todd McClay said his party had withdrawn support for reinstating the trade.

“It was a policy that the National [Party] had before the last election, and I put it forward as our agricultural spokesperson then, now as agricultural minister. But I was also very clear that we had to have a gold standard, and for animals to leave New Zealand, it had to be the highest level of animal welfare and animal husbandry that New Zealanders would expect.

“We are not convinced that that is possible and so we’ve said that we won’t support that anymore.”

Labour banned live exports by sea three years ago due to animal welfare concerns.

Before the ban the trade which was worth about $300 million a year saw cattle shipped to China to help build the dairy herd there.

McClay said if a case could be made where animal welfare could be guaranteed National would relook at it.

“But I don’t think that is possible so we’re not supporting it. It’s not something I think we’ll see any time soon.”

Green Party spokesperson Steve Abel RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Green Party spokesperson Steve Abel said National and ACT should never have committed to reinstating exports.

“Look, I think that neither National nor ACT did the background work on establishing if they were committed to the principle of upholding the highest animal welfare standards, which is what New Zealanders expect.

“Can they resume this fundamentally cruel trade? There is no veterinary expert who independently states that that was ever possible. That answer should have been able to be got before the last election.”

Abel said he was glad the truth has come to light.

“This gold standard idea is a public relations exercise that has no substance in fact and the minister, it sounds like, has rightly pulled the pin on the plans to resume live exports at sea.”

Abel said the live animal export industry wassn’t one National should be bending over backwards for.

“It’s a tiny cohort of particularly vested interests who want to reinstate this trade and the public don’t like it because New Zealanders do not want to see animals suffering.

“There should be no future for live exports in New Zealand and it’s a good thing if the National Party are committed to make sure it doesn’t come back.”

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/2026/03/11/national-would-only-support-gold-standard-live-animal-exports-todd-mcclay-says/

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Woman dies, child hurt car crashes into cafe on Auckland’s North Shore

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Marika Khabazi

A woman has died after a car mounted the curb and ploughed into a cafe in Auckland.

The crash, about 9am on Wednesday, closed William Souter Street in the North Shore suburb of Forrest Hill.

Three people were initially hurt – one critically, one with moderate injuries and one with minor injuries. Two were taken to hospital.

Police have confirmed one of those injured had since died.

RNZ / Marika Khabazi

“We just heard a massive crash sound,” Jess, who works in a neighbouring store, told RNZ.

“I was out back and I thought maybe some of our shelves had fallen down, so I rushed out to the front of the store, and lo and behold, there’s just a car on the sidewalk.”

Jess said she and her manager both rushed out and could see that the car had “obviously” crashed into the cafe.

“The first thing we saw was obviously the lady that was really injured, she was lying on the ground and there was, like, another girl, it looked like quite a young girl, whose face was bleeding as well so there were like two very noticeably injured,” she said.

“And the first thing was just to call 111, just because obviously we saw that the lady who was hit was in a not so good situation, she was in a lot of pain and she kind of looked super, super confused so we called emergency right off the bat.

RNZ / Marika Khabazi

“The car obviously has taken out the door area, the whole glass panel, it’s almost like a split glass panel and the one glass panel is literally floating in mid-air.”

Jess said they then tried to keep people away from the entrance so there were no further injuries.

She credited another nearby worker.

“The cat doctor next door to us, there is a cat nurse, she was brilliant in that situation, she ran right across from the cat doctor and she sat on the ground with the injured lady and she just sat with her and talked her through it. She was amazing,” Jess said.

RNZ / Marika Khabazi

A worker at the cafe that was hit by the car said a woman and her daughter were sitting at the time.

“Very sad news to see today. Thinking of all those involved,” North Shore MP Simon Watts said in a post on Facebook.

St John sent three ambulances and two rapid response units.

Police said only one vehicle was involved.

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/2026/03/11/woman-dies-child-hurt-car-crashes-into-cafe-on-aucklands-north-shore/

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New Solicitor-General appointed

Source: New Zealand Government

Anna Adams has been appointed Solicitor-General and Chief Executive of the Crown Law Office, Attorney-General Judith Collins announced today.

“Ms Adams is an outstanding lawyer and leader,” Ms Collins says.

“She has extensive experience in public law and has worked for many years at the highest levels of our legal system.

“Ms Adams also brings strong private‑sector leadership, having chaired a major national law firm. That mix of legal expertise and practical leadership makes her exceptionally well suited to the role of Solicitor-General.

“She is widely respected for her judgement, integrity and commitment to the law. I am confident she will provide strong and effective leadership at Crown Law and continue the high standards expected of the Solicitor-General.”

The Solicitor-General is a key constitutional role, serving as the Crown’s principal legal adviser, providing advice to the Prime Minister, the Attorney-General and Cabinet, and leads the Crown Law Office. The Solicitor-General is appointed by, and serves at the pleasure of, the Governor-General.

Ms Adams is an expert in public law with 28 years of experience across advisory work and litigation. She has acted in criminal prosecutions and civil cases for both public and private sector clients and has appeared as lead counsel in more than 100 cases in the District Court, High Court and Court of Appeal, including complex coronial inquests and major inquiries.

Ms Adams is currently a barrister at Bankside Chambers. She previously spent 20 years at Meredith Connell, serving as lead partner for public and health law and later as Chair of the Board. She also holds governance roles, including on the board of PHARMAC.

Ms Adams holds an LLM from Yale Law School, an LLB (Hons) and a BA from the University of Auckland. She has been appointed for five years from 11 May 2026.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/new-solicitor-general-appointed/

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Appeal for information following serious assault, Mahia

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Joshua Jones – Wairoa CIB: 

Police are appealing for information following a serious assault at an address in Mahia at the end of February.

On Saturday 28 February, around 11.30pm, Police were called with a report that a man had entered an address uninvited, on Newcastle Street, and seriously assaulted one of the occupants.

The man was confronted by another occupant of the address, who has hit the man over the head with a golf club causing injury to his head and face – as a result he has fled from the property on a side-by-side quadbike, down Newcastle Street and onto Weld Street.

This is a very serious incident that has happened in a place where the victim should have been able to feel safe. The victim sustained serious injuries, and both occupants are understandably very shaken by the incident.

Police have conducted initial enquiries, but have been unable to identify the man, and are now seeking the public’s assistance.

The man is described to be in his 30s or 40s around 6’1”-6’3”/185.4cm-190.5cm in height, and of chubby build. He was reported to be wearing a white singlet and jeans. He has very short, black, hair and a receding hair line.

Police are asking for anyone that has seen a man matching this description, or who had unexplained head injuries from the weekend of Saturday 28 February, to please get in touch.

Additionally, we would like to hear from anyone who witnessed a dark coloured quad bike in the Newcastle Street and Weld Street areas, between 11pm and midnight on that Saturday night, or who has CCTV or dashcam footage of the area.

Information can be provided by going online to https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 and clicking “update report”, or by calling 105.

Please quote file number 260301/0548.

You can also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/appeal-for-information-following-serious-assault-mahia/

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Fatal crash: Forrest Hill

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died following a serious crash on William Souter Street, Forrest Hill this morning.

Police were called at around 8.55am to reports of a single-vehicle crash.

A car has mounted the curb and hit two people before impacting a building.

One person was transported to hospital in a critical condition, and they have sadly now died from their injuries.

Two people sustained moderate injuries. One was transported to hospital and the other was treated at the scene.

The Serious Crash Unit is in attendance.

Enquiries into the crash are ongoing.

ENDS

Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/fatal-crash-forrest-hill/

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Labour reshuffle: Willow-Jean Prime loses education portfolio

Source: Radio New Zealand

Willow-Jean Prime has picked up the social development role. VNP / Phil Smith

Willow-Jean Prime has lost the education portfolio, but picked up social development, as Labour reshuffles its decks ahead of the election.

Ginny Andersen will take on the education role, making her the third Labour MP to take on the role in just over a year.

Peeni Henare‘s departure from Parliament, along with Adrian Rurawhe earlier this year, has given Labour leader Chris Hipkins an opportunity to change things up.

“These refreshed portfolios ensure our team will hit the ground running when we win the election in November,” Hipkins said.

Willie Jackson, who had taken on the social development role last year, will instead take on Māori Crown Relations.

Ginny Andersen will take on the education portfolio. RNZ / REECE BAKER

Speaking to the changes, Hipkins said Prime’s new social development role required “care, empathy, and a strong focus on improving outcomes for New Zealanders,” while Jackson would focus on running a “winning campaign” in the Māori seats.

Among the other changes are Damien O’Connor picking up Henare’s defence spokesperson role, Reuben Davidson taking over economic development, and Tangi Utikere becoming the spokesperson for state-owned enterprises.

Willie Jackson, who had taken on the social development role last year, will instead take on Māori Crown Relations. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Vanushi Walters moves considerably higher up Labour’s list, and takes over foreign affairs from Henare.

New list MP Georgie Dansey has been given the rainbow issues and regulation roles. Dan Rosewarne, who will re-enter Parliament following Henare’s retirement, has been given the rural communities and small business portfolios.

Duncan Webb, who has announced he will retire at the election, has lost all of his spokesperson roles.

Vanushi Walters takes over foreign affairs from Peeni Henare who is departing politics. VNP / Phil Smith

His justice portfolio has been given to Camilla Belich.

Hipkins said Webb would instead take on a “mentoring role to support our team.”

The Prime Minister is also expected to announce a ministerial reshuffle in the coming weeks, following the retirement of Judith Collins and Dr Shane Reti’s announcement he will step down at the election.

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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/2026/03/11/labour-reshuffle-willow-jean-prime-loses-education-portfolio/

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90% of New Zealand homes in need of immedate maintenance

Source: Radio New Zealand

Images showing rot in beams and exposed wood and peeling paint on window frames. Branz/supplied

About 90 percent of homes in New Zealand are in need of immediate maintenance, with the total cost of the work thought to be $27 billion, research has found.

Centre for Research, Evaluation and Social Assessment (CRESA) – with Building Research Levy backing – is running a project aimed at helping owners keep their homes well cared for in an affordable way.

CRESA’s research director Kay Saville-Smith, told Nine to Noon, the 90 percent figure came from a variety of resources including the latest condition survey done by the centre along with other research it had done.

Saville-Smith said any home that did not operate well, for example, losing heat or getting too warm counted as being in need of maintenance.

The risks associated with an unmaintained home were that it could become damaged during any adverse weather events.

Older homes were likely to be in need of repairs, Saville-Smith said, particularly if the home had not been well maintained on a regular basis.

She said while new builds were less likely to need immediate maintenance, they were not always suitable for the conditions and environment of where they had been built.

Old weatherboard homes for example with wooden window frames, were pretty straightforward to maintain, Saville-Smith said, but for many houses things were not so simple.

“Homeowners, particularly as they age, get less and less willing and sometimes less capable of some of the work.”

Over the years, there had been many design periods which used lots of different sorts of cladding and roof tiles, she said, and every different type of cladding on a home moved in a different way.

Different cladding moves in different ways. (File photo) 123RF

“The main thing consumers can do when choosing homes and designs is to understand and think about these things.

“You want a resilient home not one that just looks a bit flash.”

She said it was also important for homeowners to remember low maintenance did not mean no maintenance.

AUT Professor of Construction Management John Tookey, said a lot of general maintenance which needed to be done on homes was relatively small including clearing gutters, touching up paint, checking for gutter cracks and treating surfaces.

He said problems arose “when the outside gets inside.”

“If you don’t maintain, issues can become serious,” he said.

At this stage, Saville-Smith said she did not have data on how much people were paying to keep their homes maintained but they were working with housing providers to get a better idea of this.

She said CRESA wanted to work with designers and housing providers as well as the building industry on how to build better, more resilient homes.

Tookey said the biggest barrier for homeowners with maintaining their houses was finances. Everything from mowing grass to trimming trees came at a cost if someone was being hired to do it.

The next thing it came down to was skills and an ageing population, he said.

“We’ve become increasingly a victim of our sedentary lifestyle.”

His advice for homeowners who did not have access to a lot of funds was to “focus on the small stuff”.

That included using treatments on wood and touching up the house with paint.

He said by the time a problem was big enough to get someone in to fix it, it was going to be expensive.

“Deal with small problems before they become big problems and have a regular budget for maintenance.”

Tookey said it was good to try and set up one day each month where you can do maintenance around your home.

Coming into winter, Tookey said it was good to prepare your home by making sure there were curtains to keep in the heat, along with insulation under the floor and in the roof. He suggested purchasing a dehumidifier to take the moisture out of the air was also good.

Saville-Smith envisioned a checklist of home maintenance for a number of different styles of homes which could be given to homeowners.

She hoped the project would be able to get out the door within 18 months.

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/2026/03/11/90-of-new-zealand-homes-in-need-of-immedate-maintenance/

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Small ideas, big impact: How simple digital tools help Auckland’s factories thrive

Source: Auckland Council

If you travel past Auckland’s many factories, it’s not immediately obvious how much these businesses contribute to our everyday life. But they do, producing everything from stainless-steel tubing to food products, plastics, electronics and specialist components. 

They’re also a very important part of New Zealand’s prosperity. Auckland’s manufacturing firms keep thousands of people in work and contribute billions to the economy. In the year to the end of March 2025, Auckland’s manufacturing sector contributed more than $12.5 billion to New Zealand’s GDP, more than a third of the country’s total manufacturing contribution.   

Yet behind the factory doors, many of these businesses face a common challenge – how to keep up in a world where digital technology is moving faster than ever. 

A new initiative called Digital Manufacturing Light (DMLight) is looking to change that. DMLight helps small factories add simple, low-cost digital tools to their existing machines and processes – things like basic sensors and dashboards that show what’s happening on the factory floor in real time.  

Tested and adopted from a University of Cambridge initiative by the University of Auckland with support and investment from Auckland Council, DMLight shows that a little bit of tech can go a long way to improve productivity. 

Accessible, low-cost DMLight digital tools can quickly help factory staff spot problems sooner and avoid bottlenecks. A sensor showing when a machine stops unexpectedly can save hours of guesswork – hours saved can mean fewer delays and stronger local businesses.  

For manufacturing firms, using DMLight is like upgrading your existing car with new sensors rather than buying a brand-new vehicle.  

The Government has now committed up to $475,000 per year for three years to expand DMLight. Starting 1 April 2026, the programme will support at least 180 small and medium-sized manufacturers across Auckland, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty. Support includes help choosing the right digital tools, hands-on installation, and training so local workers can install, run and maintain the technology themselves. 

Case study 

During the Auckland pilot for DMLight, the University of Auckland and Auckland Council team worked with companies such Spiraweld Stainless Ltd, which retrofitted its older, semi-automatic spiral pipe welding machine using the DMLight method. The company added low-cost, off‑the‑shelf components (computer‑vision camera, stepper motor actuator, Raspberry Pi controller and HMI) to automate welding-gap control with minimal disruption and cost. No existing equipment needed to be replaced – just the addition of approximately $1000 in hardware of low-cost tools to give operators clearer information. 

To learn more 

Any small or medium-sized manufacturer in Auckland, Waikato, Northland and Bay of Plenty can reach out to the programme team at dmlight@auckland.ac.nz to learn more or register interest. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/small-ideas-big-impact-how-simple-digital-tools-help-aucklands-factories-thrive/

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Cut it out: recidivist burglar caught by Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Matamata Police have arrested a recidivist burglar after an electronic tracking tag alerted officers to the location of a stolen lawnmower.

A local officer took the report of the burglary on Monday morning, with the victim stating that the $1,200 brand new lawnmower had an electronic tracking tag attached for security.

Police quickly went to a private address where the tracking tag had been shown pinging, locating and recovering the lawnmower to much delight of the victim.

A 36-year-old man was arrested on a charge of receiving property over $1,000 and has been remanded in custody. They will appear for a second time in the Hamilton District Court on 24 March.

“This is a great outcome for all, being able to quickly recover a stolen item and catching a recidivist burglar red-handed,” said Senior Sergeant Aaron Fraser, Waikato East Response Manager.

“Police encourage you to keep valuable belongings out of sight and secured, note down serial numbers of tools or notable appliances, and engrave belongings if you can.

“In this case, adding an additional element of security like an electronic tracking tag came up trumps for the victim and greatly aided officers in locating the stolen item,” said Senior Sergeant Fraser.

To report burglaries and thefts, contact Police. If it’s happening now, call 111, for any incidents after the fact, call 105 or make a report online by clicking ‘Update Report’. 

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/cut-it-out-recidivist-burglar-caught-by-police/

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MEDIA ADVISORY: Hawke’s Bay Police Open Day

Source: New Zealand Police

MEDIA ADVISORY: Hawke’s Bay Police Open Day

Hawke’s Bay Police invite everyone to an Open Day at the Hastings Police Station on Sunday 15 March from 10am-12pm (gates close at 11.30am).

Entrance via Market St Police Station gates.

Held at the rear of the station, the event will host a patrol car, Police Dogs, the Armed Offenders Squad, Police Search and Rescue and much more. Find out more about a career in Police.

The ‘Cinema car” will also be there, which is an upcycled police vehicle converted into a mini cinema to watch the latest Police YouTube vlog ‘Ride Along’ and other recruitment reels.

ENDS

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/media-advisory-hawkes-bay-police-open-day/

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Greenpeace – Renewed calls for Govt to lower nitrate contamination limits, following Danish precedent

Source: Greenpeace

In  an open letter launched this morning, Greenpeace is calling on the New Zealand Government to put public health above industry profits by lowering the legal limit for nitrate in drinking water. (ref. https://www.greenpeace.org/aotearoa/publication/open-letter-nitrate-limits/ )
This follows the Danish Government’s move to lower the legal limit for nitrate in drinking water, after an expert panel recommended it should reduce from 11.3mg/L – which is also New Zealand’s current standard – to 1mg/L. The panel’s recommendation was to take a precautionary approach to protect against the risk of bowel cancer.
Greenpeace Aotearoa freshwater campaigner Will Appelbe says, “Rural families’ drinking water is being poisoned by the intensive dairy industry, yet the New Zealand Government is burying its head in the sand and pretending there’s no problem.”
“A growing body of international evidence has linked elevated levels of nitrate in drinking water with several human health risks, including bowel cancer, preterm birth, and Blue Baby syndrome.”
“But while Denmark moves to protect people from these health risks, the Luxon Government is protecting dairy industry profits.”
Appelbe says that the Danish situation is a ‘good news story’ – one that New Zealand needs to replicate.
“The Danish Government has recognised a threat to human health, and taken action to stop the problem from getting worse.
“Nitrate contamination has been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer, preterm birth, and at high levels, Blue Baby syndrome. Another recent international study suggests a correlation between high nitrate in drinking water and increased dementia risk. The weight of the available evidence supports taking a precautionary approach and reducing exposure to nitrate contamination.”
“The evidence is clear. Nitrate contamination puts people’s health at risk. That’s why we’re calling on the Luxon Government to lower the Maximum Allowable Value – the legal limit – for nitrate in drinking water now.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/11/greenpeace-renewed-calls-for-govt-to-lower-nitrate-contamination-limits-following-danish-precedent/