Interislander staffer sent overseas to collect crucial parts for Kaiārahi ferry

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Madleine CarrWhite, Massey University Journalism Student

The Kaiārahi ferry. Interislander

An Interislander staff member has gone overseas to collect crucial components to fix the stricken ferry Kaiārahi.

KiwiRail spokesperson Taru Sawhney said the action was taken to ensure the part and a spare got here as quickly as possible.

They will arrive on Friday afternoon, and there will be sea trials over the weekend.

The Kaiārahi has been out of service since Tuesday night because of a technical fault.

An Interislander spokesperson said operating with one vessel was challenging, particularly during a busy period, but the company has managed it before.

During this time, Interislander was prioritising urgent freight that could not travel across the Cook Strait any other way.

Sawhney said around 1300 private vehicles were affected by the Kaiārahi outage and those customers were being offered a full refund.

A small number of people have taken up an offer by Interislander to move private vehicle bookings to a later date with a 50 percent discount off the advertised price.

KiwiRail expects to have the Kaiārahi sailing by next week.

Meanwhile, Thursday afternoon sailings on the Connemara ferry owned by Bluebridge were also cancelled, but resumed in the early hours of Friday.

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/2026/03/13/interislander-staffer-sent-overseas-to-collect-crucial-parts-for-kaiarahi-ferry/

Manufacturing activity expands, reinforcing expectations of economic recovery

Source: Radio New Zealand

Manufacturing activity in February continued expanding at the same pace as in January. 123RF

  • Manufacturing activity eases slightly by 0.1 points to 55.0 – above 50 is expansion
  • Activity remains near four-year highs
  • All five sub-indexes are in expansion – deliveries and employment slow
  • Middle East chaos clouds outlooks – increases inflation risks

Manufacturing activity in February continued expanding at the same pace as in January, reinforcing expectations that the economic recovery is continuing.

The BNZ-BusinessNZ Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI) eased by just 0.1 points to 55.0 – just below January’s 55.1 reading.

Manufacturing activity remains near four-year highs, and comfortably above the long‑term survey average of 52.5.

A reading above 50 indicated the sector was expanding.

BusinessNZ’s Director of Advocacy, Catherine Beard, said the February result marked the first time since mid-2021 that activity had recorded three consecutive months at 55.0 or higher.

“All five sub-index values were again in expansion during February, led by the two key indices of New Orders (57.6) and Production (56.7), followed by Deliveries (51.0),” Beard said.

“Employment (50.4) dipped from January, but still remained in slight expansion,” Beard said.

The proportion of positive comments from respondents stood at 55.5 percent in February, up from 47.7 percent in January, but down from 57.1% in December.

Manufacturers reported more orders, enquiries, and sales, supported by stronger export demand and improving conditions in certain sectors, with some reporting a growing pipeline of work and a gradual improvement in business confidence.

BNZ’s senior economist Doug Steel cautioned that February’s data did not capture the impact of the conflict in the Middle East and said recent data had taken a backseat to the recent chaos there.

Steel said the conflict’s timing was poor, with the economy just beginning a fragile recovery and inflation still above three percent, posing risks to both.

Additionally, a significant proportion of manufacturing output was exported overseas and the conflict’s impact on our trading partners would also have to be watched closely.

Despite external events, Steel was still upbeat, noting “the February out-turn well above the breakeven 50 mark is a useful starting point”.

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/2026/03/13/manufacturing-activity-expands-reinforcing-expectations-of-economic-recovery/

Second meningococcal disease case in Dunedin student community

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A second case of meningococcal disease has been reported in the Dunedin student community, Health New Zealand says.

On Tuesday, the University of Otago confirmed a case of the disease within its student community.

National Public Health Service medical officer of health Dr John Eastwood said close contacts had been identified and offered antibiotic and vaccination protection.

The first case was an Otago Polytechnic student who was a resident at Te Pā Tauira. They tested positive for the disease and have been receiving care at Dunedin Hospital since last Saturday.

The disease is caused by a bacterial infection and can lead to or permanent disability including deafness.

“The National Public Health Service has worked closely with the tertiary education facilities the cases attend and determined that the risk of meningococcal disease in the community or among other students and staff remains low, as the infection is only passed on when people have close or prolonged contact with a case,” Eastwood said.

The Meningitis Foundation said it was critical the student community were aware of the risks and avoided sharing drinks and vapes, and monitored closely for any symptoms which could be similar to the common cold.

They included a stiff and sore neck, sensitivity to light, a severe headache, aching sore joints, and vomiting.

The MenACWY and MenB vaccines are free for ages 13 to 25 years old in their first year of close living situations including boarding school hostels, university halls and prisons.

Symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:

  • Fever
  • Severe headache
  • Neck stiffness
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Cold hands and feet or limb pain
  • Drowsiness or difficulty waking
  • Confusion
  • A rash that does not fade when pressed.

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/2026/03/13/second-meningococcal-disease-case-in-dunedin-student-community/

Basketball: Tall Ferns improve, but lose another World Cup qualifier

Source: Radio New Zealand

Nat Hurst , head coach of the Tall Ferns. www.photosport.nz

The Tall Ferns have lost their second successive match at their World Cup qualifying tournament, going down 74-51 to a classy Italy combination.

As coach Natalie Hurst noted, it was an improvement on their opening 99-50 defeat to sixth-ranked Spain on Thursday.

After a slow start in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the New Zealanders outpointed Italy in the second quarter and got to within two points of the Italians seven minutes into the third stanza.

But Italy pulled away late in the third quarter with a couple of big three-point plays, and the Tall Ferns were well-contained the final quarter, scoring only seven points.

It’s been a big step-up in intensity for the youthful Tall Ferns to be taking on European sides such as Spain and Italy, and Hurst said she was happy they had learned from the loss to the Spaniards.

“It was quite a big improvement on yesterday, just the way we went about it after the first quarter,” Hurst said at the post-match media conference.

“There were still way too many turnovers for us, too many points scored against us in that category, but we’ll take a lot of positives out of that,” Hurst said.

“We just want to keep building, that was another building block for us, and we walk away from it relatively happy.”

Tegan Graham led the scoring for the Tall Ferns, with nine, one more than Emilia Shearer and Ella Tofaeono, while Cecilia Zandalasini showed her class with 18 for Italy.

There was a big cheer in the New Zealand camp when guard Briarley Rogers scored her first international points in the fourth quarter.

Italian centre Lorella Cubaj paid tribute to the Tall Ferns, saying they put her team under pressure in the second and early in the third quarter.

“We were affected a little bit by their physicality. They are a very physical team, they are a very good team honestly.

“They were able to put us in a bit of a struggle there. I’m just happy we responded.”

The New Zealanders play Senegal on Sunday (7am start NZ time), and take on defending champions the United States and Puerto Rico next week.

The top three teams (excluding the US who have already qualified) from this six-team tournament will earn spots at the World Cup in Germany in September.

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/2026/03/13/basketball-tall-ferns-improve-but-lose-another-world-cup-qualifier/

CAT scans yes, cats, no: Popular moggies not permitted at Taranaki Base Hospital

Source: Radio New Zealand

Theo Cowley gets a cuddle from Mr Pip Suz Crowley

Claws are out over a directive to restrict the movements of two popular moggies at Taranaki Base Hospital.

Pip, and more recent arrival Pablo, are a common sight at the hospital – but staff have been told the animals are not permitted in hospital buildings, citing infection prevention and clinical safety standards.

Taranaki Base Hospital says only approved service animals are allowed in hospital buildings.

Ngaere woman Tracey Blake said Pip was a godsend when her daughter was in and out of hospital during a difficult pregnancy, while also having to care for a toddler.

“Pip kept an 18-month-old entertained. Walking into maternity, walking through the maternity doors, he was there and he was never a problem.

“He was just a real lift for our day, and every time we went there he gave little grandchild something to look forward to. It was just amazing.”

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

She thought the mental wellbeing of patients should also be a consideration.

“It’s a proven fact that having an animal can help alleviate stress, and if it gives a moment of peace shouldn’t that outweigh any risk.

“He’s not in a birthing suite. He’s not actually going into where the babies are. He’s wandering the corridors, and I can’t see that that is any different than somebody coming in with dirty shoes.”

A petition was started on the Adventures of Pip Facebook page – where Pablo also features frequently – in support of the cats, and it had been flooded with messages.

Suz Cowley said Pip was a comfort to her 10-year-old son Theo when visiting his grandmother at the hospital.

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

“We were sitting waiting for my mum to be picked up, and Pip came strolling along and my son, he just adores cats. So he went up to approach him and Pip was sweet as with him, having a little cuddle on the floor, which was really lovely.”

She said hospital visits can be difficult for children, but not with Pip about.

“So Pip coming along just broke the boredom and yeah, it was instant friendship too. It was beautiful. And yeah, and mum managed to get a little pat with Pip too. It was beautiful.”

Holy Malcolm – a junior doctor at Taranaki Base – is Pablo’s owner. She said the two-and-a-half-year-old birman was a wanderer.

“One day when I was walking to a night shift I hadn’t seen him for a couple of days and he jumped out of the bushes besides our maternity ward, and I think we were both just as shocked to see each other there.

“And I thought it might have been a one-off, but everytime I’d come into work he’d be waiting outside ED or around the psych department.”

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

Malcolm had seen for herself how Pablo could lift people’s spirits.

“I’ve seen and heard how Pablo’s able to interact with people and the difference he can make to their day.

“A lot of people around hospital are having a rough time and I think if he can make that better I think that’s great.

“There’s a lot of evidence to suggest having an animal is really good for people’s health, you know, a lot of people are lonely and even if it’s the company of an animal I think that’s great.”

Pablo Supplied

Malcolm said there was no argument that Pablo or Pip should not be allowed in ED, theatre or clinical areas.

Outside Taranaki Base Hospital most people were fans of the moggies.

“I think it’s terrible to trespass Pip,” said one hospital contractor.

But another woman was not so sure.

“From a practical point of view I don’t think good to have the cats in the buildings.”

A nurse came down in favour of the felines.

“I think the weight of opinion is that Pip was helpful for the patients and the staff.”

Supplied

A young doctor was on the same page.

“I feel like he’s a pretty well-liked cat, everybody loves Pip staff and patients.”

Another staff member said Pip was well known in her family.

“He’s great, Pip, my baby niece is obsessed and everytime I come home from work she doesn’t ask me how my day was – she asks me how Pip is.”

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

In a statement, Te Whatu Ora group director operations Taranaki, Wendy Langlands, acknowledged the enjoyment Pip and Pablo brought to some staff and patients.

“Recently, staff were reminded of existing expectations around animals in clinical areas such as maternity and the neonatal unit. These expectations are in place to ensure we meet infection prevention and clinical safety standards that apply in healthcare settings.”

Langlands said only certified assistance animals, such as guide dogs, are allowed in hospital buildings, or those approved for palliative care and therapy visits.

“Our staff have been reminded not to feed animals or provide bedding. If an animal does wander into a building, staff have been advised to gently guide it back outside.

Hospital communications seen by RNZ said if the cats continued to come inside, staff should call security.

They were also warned to avoid being photographed with the felines in Health NZ uniform and sharing such images online.

Langlands said these expectations helped ensure the hospital environment remained safe for patients, whānau and staff.

“We acknowledge Pip and Pablo as a friendly presence around the hospital grounds.”

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/2026/03/13/cat-scans-yes-cats-no-popular-moggies-not-permitted-at-taranaki-base-hospital/

Second meningococcal disease case at Otago University

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Nate McKinnon

A second case of meningococcal disease has been reported in the Dunedin student community, Health New Zealand says.

On Tuesday, the University of Otago confirmed a case of the disease within its student community.

National Public Health Service medical officer of health Dr John Eastwood said close contacts had been identified and offered antibiotic and vaccination protection.

The first case was an Otago Polytechnic student who was a resident at Te Pā Tauira. They tested positive for the disease and have been receiving care at Dunedin Hospital since last Saturday.

The disease is caused by a bacterial infection and can lead to or permanent disability including deafness.

“The National Public Health Service has worked closely with the tertiary education facilities the cases attend and determined that the risk of meningococcal disease in the community or among other students and staff remains low, as the infection is only passed on when people have close or prolonged contact with a case,” Eastwood said.

The Meningitis Foundation said it was critical the student community were aware of the risks and avoided sharing drinks and vapes, and monitored closely for any symptoms which could be similar to the common cold.

They included a stiff and sore neck, sensitivity to light, a severe headache, aching sore joints, and vomiting.

The MenACWY and MenB vaccines are free for ages 13 to 25 years old in their first year of close living situations including boarding school hostels, university halls and prisons.

Symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:

  • Fever
  • Severe headache
  • Neck stiffness
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Cold hands and feet or limb pain
  • Drowsiness or difficulty waking
  • Confusion
  • A rash that does not fade when pressed.

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/2026/03/13/second-meningococcal-disease-case-at-otago-university/

CAT scans yes, cats, no: Taranaki Base Hospital bans popular moggies

Source: Radio New Zealand

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

Claws are out over a directive to restrict the movements of two popular moggies at Taranaki Base Hospital.

Pip, and more recent arrival Pablo, are a common sight at the hospital – but staff have been told the animals are not permitted in hospital buildings, citing infection prevention and clinical safety standards.

Taranaki Base Hospital says only approved service animals are allowed in hospital buildings.

Ngaere woman Tracey Blake said Pip was a godsend when her daughter was in and out of hospital during a difficult pregnancy, while also having to care for a toddler.

“Pip kept an 18-month-old entertained. Walking into maternity, walking through the maternity doors, he was there and he was never a problem.

“He was just a real lift for our day, and every time we went there he gave little grandchild something to look forward to. It was just amazing.”

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

She thought the mental wellbeing of patients should also be a consideration.

“It’s a proven fact that having an animal can help alleviate stress, and if it gives a moment of peace shouldn’t that outweigh any risk.

“He’s not in a birthing suite. He’s not actually going into where the babies are. He’s wandering the corridors, and I can’t see that that is any different than somebody coming in with dirty shoes.”

A petition was started on the Adventures of Pip Facebook page – where Pablo also features frequently – in support of the cats, and it had been flooded with messages.

Suz Cowley said Pip was a comfort to her 10-year-old son Theo when visiting his grandmother at the hospital.

“We were sitting waiting for my mum to be picked up, and Pip came strolling along and my son, he just adores cats. So he went up to approach him and Pip was sweet as with him, having a little cuddle on the floor, which was really lovely.”

She said hospital visits can be difficult for children, but not with Pip about.

“So Pip coming along just broke the boredom and yeah, it was instant friendship too. It was beautiful. And yeah, and mum managed to get a little pat with Pip too. It was beautiful.”

Holy Malcolm – a junior doctor at Taranaki Base – is Pablo’s owner. She said the two-and-a-half-year-old birman was a wanderer.

“One day when I was walking to a night shift I hadn’t seen him for a couple of days and he jumped out of the bushes besides our maternity ward, and I think we were both just as shocked to see each other there.

“And I thought it might have been a one-off, but everytime I’d come into work he’d be waiting outside ED or around the psych department.”

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

Malcolm had seen for herself how Pablo could lift people’s spirits.

“I’ve seen and heard how Pablo’s able to interact with people and the difference he can make to their day.

“A lot of people around hospital are having a rough time and I think if he can make that better I think that’s great.

“There’s a lot of evidence to suggest having an animal is really good for people’s health, you know, a lot of people are lonely and even if it’s the company of an animal I think that’s great.”

Malcolm said there was no argument that Pablo or Pip should not be allowed in ED, theatre or clinical areas.

Outside Taranaki Base Hospital most people were fans of the moggies.

“I think it’s terrible to trespass Pip,” said one hospital contractor.

But another woman was not so sure.

“From a practical point of view I don’t think good to have the cats in the buildings.”

A nurse came down in favour of the felines.

“I think the weight of opinion is that Pip was helpful for the patients and the staff.”

A young doctor was on the same page.

“I feel like he’s a pretty well-liked cat, everybody loves Pip staff and patients.”

Another staff member said Pip was well known in her family.

“He’s great, Pip, my baby niece is obsessed and everytime I come home from work she doesn’t ask me how my day was – she asks me how Pip is.”

Pip the cat at Taranaki Base Hospital. Robin Martin / RNZ

In a statement, Te Whatu Ora group director operations Taranaki, Wendy Langlands, acknowledged the enjoyment Pip and Pablo brought to some staff and patients.

“Recently, staff were reminded of existing expectations around animals in clinical areas such as maternity and the neonatal unit. These expectations are in place to ensure we meet infection prevention and clinical safety standards that apply in healthcare settings.”

Langlands said only certified assistance animals, such as guide dogs, are allowed in hospital buildings, or those approved for palliative care and therapy visits.

“Our staff have been reminded not to feed animals or provide bedding. If an animal does wander into a building, staff have been advised to gently guide it back outside.

Hospital communications seen by RNZ said if the cats continued to come inside, staff should call security.

They were also warned to avoid being photographed with the felines in Health NZ uniform and sharing such images online.

Langlands said these expectations helped ensure the hospital environment remained safe for patients, whānau and staff.

“We acknowledge Pip and Pablo as a friendly presence around the hospital grounds.”

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/2026/03/13/cat-scans-yes-cats-no-taranaki-base-hospital-bans-popular-moggies/

Discount day wipes out some Gull petrol stations as panic buying adds pressure

Source: Radio New Zealand

Nick Monro / RNZ

Extra demand on Gull’s discount day has left some of its petrol stations running low on fuel.

Gull said 3 percent of its sites had not been able to meet the extra demand from customers when it cut prices on its regular Thursday promotion.

Commenters online said Onehunga’s Gull was out of 95 and media reported that Greville Road, Henderson, Torbay, Takanini and Takapuna were also out of at least one sort of fuel.

“Sites that sold through yesterday, have, or are currently being refuelled for Gull’s customers by our logistics’ provider,” a spokesperson said.

AA spokesperson Terry Collins said the wider fuel network ran on a “just in time” basis and any extra demand from people panic buying would put stress on the system.

He said those stations would have a wait until the next delivery arrived.

Gull said 3 percent of its sites had not been able to meet the extra demand from customers Nick Monro / RNZ

Ongoing disruption in the Middle Easy, and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, have pushed up oil prices as well as fears about its continued supply internationally.

  • Have you tried to purchase petrol at a station that’s run out? Email susan.edmunds@rnz.co.nz

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment said as of March 8, the country had 32.8 days’ worth of petrol in the country and 25.2 on the water. It also had 27.6 in the country of diesel and 22.3 on the water.

It said most oil companies had reported no supply chain issues.

At Z, a spokesperson said it was experiencing demand in some areas but the impacts on its ability to supply customers were “minimal”.

“Our teams are working as quickly and safely as possible to move fuel through our network. This is about getting fuel to the right places to meet demand, at this stage, there is no shortage of fuel overall.”

Last Friday, Gaspy said the average price of 91 was about $2.66 – falling to about $2.60 after the impact of the previous day’s discounts worked out of the system. This Friday, it had reached $2.90.

Anyone stockpiling petrol in their homes may need to check the implications for their insurance policies.

A spokesperson or the Insurance and Financial Services Ombudsman said it would present a fire hazard and a risk to property. “Insurers would likely not be comfortable with it.”

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

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/13/discount-day-wipes-out-some-gull-petrol-stations-as-panic-buying-adds-pressure/

Fourth person dies after crash between car and campervan in Marlborough

Source: Radio New Zealand

The crash happened on State Highway 1, near Redwood Pass. Google Maps

A fourth person has died following a crash last month between a car and a campervan on State Highway 1, south of Blenheim.

Two people died at the scene, near Redwood Pass, and another died in hospital soon after the crash on February 22.

Police confirmed a fourth person died on Friday despite the best efforts of medical professionals.

One person remained in a serious condition in hospital.

The circumstances of the crash were still be investigated by police.

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/2026/03/13/fourth-person-dies-after-crash-between-car-and-campervan-in-marlborough/

Remains confirmed as Ferzil Babu, who disappeared almost two years ago

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ferzil Babu, who went missing while on a fishing trip at The Gap, Taiharuru on 1 May, 2024. GiveaLittle

Human remains located on Coppermine Island (Mauipane), east of Whangārei have been identified as belonging to a person who went missing in May 2024.

He had been fishing at The Gap – a popular, but sometimes treacherous, fishing spot at Taiharuru.

On 20 December 2025, a member of the Department of Conservation contacted police after finding the remains on Coppermine Island (Mauipane).

The remains have since been examined by a pathologist, anthropologist, and ESR scientists to assist the police with identification.

Following the examination, the human remains have now been confirmed as those of missing person Ferzil Babu, who went missing while on a fishing trip at The Gap, Taiharuru on 1 May, 2024.

Police have since spoken with Babu’s family to inform them of the finding.

The body of a second fisherman who accompanied Babu on the fishing trip was recovered two days after they disappeared.

Sarath Kumar, 37, had been working as a nurse in Whangārei Hospital’s emergency department.

Police said they extended their sympathies to his loved ones at a difficult time.

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/2026/03/13/remains-confirmed-as-ferzil-babu-who-disappeared-almost-two-years-ago/

Selwyn District Council mulls staff cuts to keep rates rises down

Source: Radio New Zealand

Selwyn mayor Lydia Glddon. ANNA SAREGNT / RNZ

Canterbury’s Selwyn District Council is mulling staff cuts and a recruitment freeze as councillors examine ways to keep this year’s rates rise down.

Councillors agreed on Wednesday to consult the public on an average rates increase of 5.4 per cent, with options of 4.9 per cent and 6.5 per cent also on the table in the draft annual plan.

While the proposed increases were less than half of last year’s 14.2 per cent hike, they excluded water charges and resulted in trade-offs.

The council had carved out savings in the draft plan by shifting some costs from general rates to user-pays, which could mean increased building consent costs, aquatic and fitness class fees and dog registration fees for ratepayers.

Selwyn mayor Lydia Gliddon said there were also savings to be made in-house, which could result in staff cuts.

“There’s a lot that we’re going to do internally and we need staff to quantify some of this stuff. At the moment we look at like a hiring freeze and actually do we need all of these roles, what are the core roles that we need to deliver core function of council and what are the ones that we don’t need and how do we lower our consultancy spend along side that as well,” she said.

“There are 75 open roles out at the moment, if we don’t need those roles we shouldn’t be recruiting for them.”

Total staff costs came to $47.3 million in the last financial year, compared to $32.7m in the 2022/23 financial year.

The draft plan said the lowest 4.9 per cent rates rise option could be achieved by significantly reducing recruitment at the council for the next year, removing some roles from budgets and significantly reducing consultant costs.

It was not recommended by staff, who said it could affect the council’s ability to meet its legal obligations and deliver services.

Gliddon said the 4.9 percent increase was yet to be fully modelled by the council.

“You’ve got to weigh up the risk. We can’t risk not delivering the level of service our community expects but we can’t charge the level of rates that we have been,” she said.

Gliddon believed general rates were subsidising some fees and charges more than they should.

“I think the user-pays is actually a better situation than the general rate having to offset at the rate that it is,” she said.

“I don’t think necessarily it’s fair if someone isn’t using something, they shouldn’t be paying or subsidising the full amount of it. It is a really fine line because you want to enable success of say facilities because there is a general good will in those and we want people to be using the space, and they’re paying a targeted rate for it, but it’s a bigger broader conversation and we need to figure this out with our community.”

The council would have to reduce its library programmes and exhibitions to achieve the 5.4 per cent increase.

The draft plan included investments in roading upgrades and maintenance, Lincoln’s town centre, replacement of the Whitecliffs bridge and remediation of the Leeston Medical Centre.

Gliddon said roading was one of the biggest infrastructure pressures the district was facing because it remained the fastest growing area in the country.

The council was predicting $213.6m in revenue during the next financial year, while it would spend $196.5m on operating expenses and $86m on capital infrastructure.

Gliddon said Selwyn’s rapid growth provided both an opportunity and a challenge for the council.

“We have national policy statements we’ve got to abide by providing 30 years worth of land for housing, that’s a lot when you’re a fast growing district. What we’re trying to do is try and release some of the burden from the general ratepayer having to subsidise growth because we know that’s not fair,” she said.

“We’re hoping that the development levy reform will come out and help us recover some of that.”

The council was in the process of recruiting a permanent chief executive after the resignation of Sharon Mason in December.

“We’ve appointed Sheffield as our recruitment agency. We’ve got a process to take place over the coming months. Ideally we’d like to have a permanent chief executive employed to go through the long term plan,” Gliddon said.

Public consultation on Selwyn’s draft annual plan opens on Monday.

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/2026/03/13/selwyn-district-council-mulls-staff-cuts-to-keep-rates-rises-down/

Eliza McCartney vaults into NZ team for world indoor athletics champs

Source: Radio New Zealand

Eliza McCartney has won selection for the world indoor athletics champs in Poland. David Rowland/Photosport

Eliza McCartney’s impressive pole vault at the New Zealand athletics championships last weekend has won her a place at the world indoor champs in Poland.

McCartney was in a three-way battle with Imogen Ayris and Olivia McTaggart for the two women’s pole vault places in the New Zealand team for the champs later this month.

Ayris was the front-runner after she cleared 4.76 metres in finishing third at an indoor meet in France nearly three weeks ago, while McTaggart and McCartney had recently vaulted 4.70m, which was the automatic qualifying mark for Poland.

But McCartney soared 4.81m at the national champs at Auckland’s Trusts Arena last weekend to ensure selection with Ayris, while McTaggart is the unlucky non-travelling reserve in the New Zealand team named today for the worlds, which take place in Toruń from 20-22 March.

McCartney’s vault was just a fraction better than the 4.80m which secured her silver at the 2024 world indoor champs in Glasgow.

All nations were limited to two athletes per event in Poland.

A number of prominent athletes – Sam Ruthe, Sam Tanner, James Preston, Hamish Kerr, Maddi Wesche, Rosa Twyford and Jacko Gill – were eligible for selection but made themselves unavailable to focus on preparing for other international events.

But two other world indoor champs medallists will join McCartney in Poland – with Tom Walsh defending his men’s shot put crown, while last year’s 3000m steeplechase champion, Geordie Beamish, will run in the 3000m flat event.

Tom Walsh won gold at last year’s world indoor champs. AFP

Sprint stars Zoe Hobbs and Tiaan Whelpton will run in the 60m events, after sealing qualification at the Sir Graeme Douglas International meet in Auckland last month. Hobbs finishing fourth in the world indoor champs in Glasgow in 2024 and sixth in Nanjing last year, while Whelpton matched his New Zealand resident record over 100m at the Douglas meet.

Middle distance athlete Alison Andrews Paul returns for her second world indoors in the women’s 800m, which will also be contested by debutant Boh Ritchie, while James Harding and Thomas Cowan will run in the men’s 800m.

Harding and Cowan have traded the New Zealand indoor record this season, with Harding holding the mark at 1:46.44, set in February in the United States.

National record holder Lex Revell Lewis and national indoor record holder Annalie Kalma run in the 400m events, while Tapenisa Havea will compete at world senior level for the first time in the women’s shot put. She finished fourth in the shot put and seventh in the discus at the 2022 world under-20 champs.

New Zealand team for 2026 World Athletics Indoor Championships in Toruń, 20-22 March.

Men

Tom Walsh, shot put

Geordie Beamish, 3000m

Tiaan Whelpton, 60m

James Harding, 800m

Thomas Cowan, 800m

Lex Revell Lewis, 400m

Women

Zoe Hobbs 60m

Eliza McCartney, pole vault

Imogen Ayris, pole vault

Alison Andrews Paul, 800m

Boh Ritchie, 800m

Annalies Kalma, 400m

Tapenisa Havea, shot put

Reserve (Non travelling)

Olivia McTaggart, pole vault

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/2026/03/13/eliza-mccartney-vaults-into-nz-team-for-world-indoor-athletics-champs/

Firefighter hits right note to free toddler stuck in a tambourine

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Richard Tindiller

A long-serving Wellington firefighter can chalk up another first after a callout to a toddler with a tambourine stuck on his neck.

The Johnsonville crew was called to the incident at a daycare centre around 10.20am on Friday.

Watch commander John Devereux said the child – thought to be about one – got the tambourine over his head and couldn’t get it off again.

“He wasn’t distressed at all. It was loosely around his neck. He was wearing it like a loose collar.”

Devereux said the musical instrument was made of laminated wood – no match for a pair of bolt cutters.

While the toddler was distracted by the fire engine, a crew member crept around the back of his head, Devereux said and snipped the tambourine off.

“I don’t think he even noticed.”

The callout was a first for Devereux in his 47 years in the fire service.

“I haven’t been to a tambourine over the head, but I have been to a couple of buckets over the head.”

He said dishwashing liquid or snips usually sorted those out.

Asked how the crew was feeling about the success, he said it was: “Just another day at the office”.

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/2026/03/13/firefighter-hits-right-note-to-free-toddler-stuck-in-a-tambourine/

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith dismisses officials’ advice on ‘move on orders’

Source: Radio New Zealand

Rough sleepers in New Plymouth. RNZ / Robin Martin

Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith has batted away warnings from his officials that the government’s proposed ‘move-on orders’ could put vulnerable people at risk and pile hundreds more cases on the courts each year.

The powers announced in February would allow police to direct rough sleepers or beggars out of an area at threat of a $2000 fine or up to three months in prison.

Newly released advice from government agencies strongly urged against the move, warning the proposal would cause significant hardship for already vulnerable people.

Justice officials noted a “lack of empirical evidence” that the orders would reduce crime rates and said they were “highly likely” to merely shift begging or rough sleeping to different locations.

“Vulnerable individuals such as young people, disabled people, and people experiencing mental health issues, could experience a greater risk of safety from being moved out of city centres.”

Those people might also find it harder to access support networks or services, officials said, and that steep fines would either deepen cycles of poverty or just go unpaid, resulting in further involvement with the justice system.

They said the penalties were “disproportionately high” and in line with those for “much more severe behaviour” such as careless driving resulting in death, indecent exposure, or resisting police.

“Applying such significant fines to people who were issued an order for begging, rough sleeping, or creating makeshift dwellings (suggesting little to no income) is neither appropriate nor proportionate.”

Officials also said the evidence for a growing public disorder problem was limited, noting police data showing prosecutions for such offences had declined in recent years.

Modelling, referenced in the regulatory impact statement, suggested the policy could result in somewhere between 200 to 800 additional court cases.

Paul Goldsmith. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Officials said the increase would increase costs to the Ministry of Justice and could slow the progress of cases through the District Court.

They estimated it could result in an extra six people being imprisoned each year, at a cost to the state of $120,000 a year each.

Corrections warned the prison network already had limited capacity, and even small increases in the prison muster could trigger the need for new infrastructure.

RNZ earlier reported that key ministries, including justice and housing, had opposed the policy.

In a fresh statement to RNZ on Friday, Goldsmith noted the advice from officials but said it was for the elected government to determine how it moved forward.

In a statement to RNZ, Goldsmith noted the advice from officials but said it was for the elected government to determine how it moved forward.

“Just like the gangs legislation, which prompted similar warnings, we have every confidence police can operationalise this in a way that’s highly effective.

“This is about reclaiming our streets and our city centres for the enjoyment of everybody who visits, works and lives there.”

Goldsmith stressed that only people who refused the orders from police would face prosecution: “A move-on order is not a criminal charge.”

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/2026/03/13/justice-minister-paul-goldsmith-dismisses-officials-advice-on-move-on-orders/

Fishing for votes: Fishing regulations, and the balance between recreational and commercial interests are shaping up as an election issue

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ross McNaughton

ACT MP Cameron Luxton is a self confessed good, keen fisherman. Asked about his biggest snapper, he recounts catching a 23-pounder (10.4kg) from a kayak.

“I tell you what, when I flipped that into the boat, I was bloody stoked.”

He seems to be angling for a few fishing votes as well. Ahead of the recent Auckland on Water boat show he put the call out on social media, asking to talk “to fishers about what they see happening on the water and what needs to change. If you’re there, come and have a chat.”

First Up took up the invitation, asking Luxton if fishing was a hot topic as he stepped off an exhibitor’s boat.

“It certainly seems to be, but it’s always been a topic that’s dear to me.”

Luxton’s not the only politician engaging with anglers. Sam Woolford, spokesperson for recreational lobby group Legasea, said he was definitely getting more attention from politicians.

“I think the easiest way to describe it is it must be an election year,” he said, “because, yes, it definitely feels like suddenly all of the political parties are a lot more attentive to what the public interests are.”

Ben Chissell organised last year’s One Ocean demonstration, protesting at some aspects of the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill, which allowed some commercial fishing in areas that prohibited recreational fishing. He also had a number of politicians getting in touch.

“Yeah, we’ve had a lot reach out. We’ve heard from Labour, National, ACT and New Zealand First.”

He said the parties were taking the issue very seriously.

“One of the two major political parties has put this between top three and top five on their manifesto for the election.”

SeaFood New Zealand recently told members seafood, commercial fishing and marine sustainability was becoming an election issue. CEO Lisa Futschek said it was in ongoing talks.

“So we have had discussions with the National Party, with the Labour Party, with ACT, with New Zealand First, with the Greens as well. We haven’t at this stage had success in meeting anyone from Te Pāti Māori.

“Our conversations and our engagement across the political spectrum is ongoing. And obviously, given that it’s election year, will be wanting to maintain those connections on a regular basis.”

Two weeks ago while out fishing, Luxton filmed a commercial vessel targeting a school of jack mackerel and skipjack tuna, describing the fish being encircled by the net.

“They’ll all be gone by Friday afternoon, all that bait,” he said in the video posted on his Facebook page.

“We’ve seen manta rays and stuff here on Friday afternoon, but who knows what’s in there at the moment”

But Luxton was not biting when asked if he had any concerns about commercial catchers.

“I think that New Zealand’s got to have adult conversations about the way we manage the marine resource. And, you know, I think a lot of people have seen things on the ocean that worry them.”

Seafood New Zealand has also been keeping an eye on Luxton’s posts.

“Yes, we have seen those posts” Futschek said, “and we have tried to understand if there was a particular issue or particular conversations that needed to happen between the recreational sector and the commercial fishing industry in Cameron’s electorate.”

Last month, Conservation Minister Tama Potaka indicated National would remove commercial fishing from Hauraki Gulf high protection areas if re-elected.

Labour would do the same. In a statement, Labour’s acting oceans and fisheries spokesperson Priyanca Radhakrishnan said: “Oceans and fisheries are hugely valued sectors to New Zealand and certainly an area we are actively engaging in. A key focus for Labour is around sustainability of the sector, and ensuring it can grow to create skilled, well-paid jobs, while also protecting the health of our oceans.”

The debate around fishing policy was set to intensify, with a proposed amendment to the Fishing Act expected before Parliament this month.

Shane Jones is the architect of the bill, but was not available for comment – fuel, rather than fishing, his priority this week.

Futschek said the commercial fishing industry was supportive of the reforms.

“They are essentially common sense changes and updates to an act which has been around now for 30 years.”

Legasea though believed the changes were weighted far too heavily in favour of the commercial sector.

“We’re talking about legalising dumping and discarding the fish at sea, or allowing the fishermen to actually turn off cameras at transition periods, or even the most ridiculous one, which will actually make it illegal for future ministers to take into consideration the impacts of fishing techniques when setting allowances.”

Politicians from across the divide are keen to ensure this election issue will not be the one that got away.

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/2026/03/13/fishing-for-votes-fishing-regulations-and-the-balance-between-recreational-and-commercial-interests-are-shaping-up-as-an-election-issue/

Man charged with abducting for sex after woman found severely injured in West Auckland’s Cornwallis

Source: Radio New Zealand

The alleged attack happened near Cornwallis Beach. (File photo)

A woman who was found with several injuries in a remote area of West Auckland was put through an ordeal, police say.

A man was facing charges of abducting for sex, impeding breathing and injuring with intent after the woman was found in Cornwallis on Sunday just after 7am.

She was taken to a nearby police station and then transferred to hospital.

“I want to acknowledge the woman who came to the victim’s aid, and others who have assisted us in progressing the investigation,” Acting Detective Inspector Megan Goldie said.

“This has been a sensitive and complex investigation, and our team has worked quickly to progress our enquiry and identify a person of interest.

“This has included analysis of CCTV footage between central Auckland and west Auckland.”

A 49-year-old man was arrested in Auckland’s Mt Eden on Wednesday.

“Police have successfully opposed this man’s bail, and we can reassure the wider public that he is not in the community,” Goldie said.

“The charges themselves speak to a distressing ordeal that the victim has been through, and we will continue to support her through the next part of the process.”

They weren’t ruling out further charges.

The man would next appear in court on April 29.

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/2026/03/13/man-charged-with-abducting-for-sex-after-woman-found-severely-injured-in-west-aucklands-cornwallis/

‘My light is starting to fade’: Married at First Sight star has brain cancer

Source: Radio New Zealand

Married at First Sight (MAFS) personality Mel Schilling says there’s nothing more doctors can do as cancer has spread to her brain.

The 54-year-old Australian TV host wrote on social media on Friday morning that signs cancer had returned appeared over Christmas.

Alongside a picture of herself with her husband, Gareth, and daughter, Maddie, she wrote: “I began experiencing blinding headaches and numbness down my right side. After many tests I was told the cancer had spread to the left side of my brain and, despite subsequent radiotherapy sessions, my oncology team have now told me there is nothing further they can do.”

Schilling is best known for her role as a relationship coach on the Australian and UK version of the reality TV programme, MAFS.

At the end of 2023 she was diagnosed with colon cancer “the size of a lemon”, which was removed, and she was “given the all clear”.

However, in February 2024 a routine scan found “small nodules” in her lungs. Over 16 moths, while filming MAFS, Schilling underwent 16 rounds of chemotherapy.

However, the cancer has now metastasised to her brain.

“But I am still here, still fighting, and surrounded by the most incredible love. Simple tasks have become incredibly difficult and I am relying on my beautiful family to look after me,” she wrote in Friday’s update.

“I honestly don’t know how long I have left, but I do know I will fight to my last breath and will be surrounded by the love and support of my people.”

Schilling stepped back from her role on MAFS this year to focus on her health. Season 13 of the Australian version of the controversial programme is currently airing in NZ.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/03/13/my-light-is-starting-to-fade-married-at-first-sight-star-has-brain-cancer/

Man charged with abdutcing for sex after woman found severely injured in West Auckland’s Cornwallis

Source: Radio New Zealand

The alleged attack happened near Cornwallis Beach. (File photo)

A woman who was found with several injuries in a remote area of West Auckland was put through an ordeal, police say.

A man was facing charges of abducting for sex, impeding breathing and injuring with intent after the woman was found in Cornwallis on Sunday just after 7am.

She was taken to a nearby police station and then transferred to hospital.

“I want to acknowledge the woman who came to the victim’s aid, and others who have assisted us in progressing the investigation,” Acting Detective Inspector Megan Goldie said.

“This has been a sensitive and complex investigation, and our team has worked quickly to progress our enquiry and identify a person of interest.

“This has included analysis of CCTV footage between central Auckland and west Auckland.”

A 49-year-old man was arrested in Auckland’s Mt Eden on Wednesday.

“Police have successfully opposed this man’s bail, and we can reassure the wider public that he is not in the community,” Goldie said.

“The charges themselves speak to a distressing ordeal that the victim has been through, and we will continue to support her through the next part of the process.”

They weren’t ruling out further charges.

The man would next appear in court on April 29.

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/2026/03/13/man-charged-with-abdutcing-for-sex-after-woman-found-severely-injured-in-west-aucklands-cornwallis/

Ryan Fox hospitalised, pulls out of Players Championship in Florida

Source: Radio New Zealand

Ryan Fox in hospital after operation for kidney stones. 2026. supplied / Instagram

Auckland golfer Ryan Fox is in hospital after being forced to withdraw from the Players Championship in Florida.

Fox pulled out of the unofficial fifth major just before the opening round because of illness.

He has since revealed that he is in hospital after suffering from kidney stones.

“Not exactly the week I had planned here,” Fox said on Instagram.

“Unfortunately some kidney stones took me down on Tuesday night and then had to be dealt with surgically this afternoon.

“Devastated to miss out on such an amazing event, hoping to have a quick recovery and be back at it soon.”

He was replaced in the 123-man field by David Ford, who will be among the 15 players competing for the first time at the TPC Sawgrass.

Fox has been in good form so far this year, he has finished in the top 25 in all four events he’s played and pocketed $1.7 million.

The 39 year old won the Myrtle Beach Classic and the Canadian Open last year and is No 44 in the world rankings.

The Players Championship is worth $43 million with the winner taking home $7.7m.

Fox’s best result at the Players Championship was last year when he finished tied for 20th.

American Colin Morikawa also withdrew from the tournament with a back injury, but world number two Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland is playing after recovering from his own back injury.

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/2026/03/13/ryan-fox-hospitalised-pulls-out-of-players-championship-in-florida/

Petrol companies warned against unreasonable price hikes

Source: Radio New Zealand

Average retail prices in New Zealand were still roughly what the Commerce Commission would expect. RNZ / Dan Cook

The Commerce Commission is putting fuel companies on notice if they hike prices too high at the pump.

The market watchdog is boosting its scrutiny while the conflict in the Middle East causes volatile global wholesale prices.

Commissioner Bryan Chapple told Morning Report that they were seeing big prices overseas, including refinery and shipping costs, but the average retail prices in New Zealand were roughly what they would expect.

“We’re seeing nothing out of the ordinary.”.

He encouraged motorists to shop around for better fuel prices.

“The best thing that we can all do, and I do too, is look at apps like Gaspy or notice the fuel boards when you’re going past them and look for a better deal,” he said.

“That has the effect of driving competition, which then forces other companies to lower their prices too.”

He believed competition was improving.

Law changes meant it was easier for operators who did not import their own fuel to access fuel, and they were opening often unstaffed sites that tended to offer lower prices, driving down prices of nearby stations, he said.

“You’re seeing some of the existing large companies converting some of their staffed sites to unstaffed sites in order to deal with the competition they’re facing, so I think that’s a good sign for Kiwi motorists.”

The Commerce Commission has been monitoring average fuel prices and how much they had increased since February, and Chapple said the Commission would publish that information weekly.

There were other factors at play including when operators bought their fuel and transport costs.

But Chapple said the Commission would call out operators if unjustified price rises started to appear.

“Prices go up in response to international prices. What we’ll be watching really closely is that they come down at the same rate as they’ve gone up when prices turn again.”

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/2026/03/13/petrol-companies-warned-against-unreasonable-price-hikes/