Category: Radio New Zealand

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Rugby League: Proposed kick-off rule change a no-go for NRL 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tanah Boyd of the New Zealand Warriors. Brett Phibbs/www.photosport.nz

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has decided not to proceed with a proposed kick-off rule change but fans will notice other on-field rule changes for the 2026 NRL season.

The ARLC confirmed rule changes on Wednesday following a consultation process with clubs, players, coaches and key stakeholders.

“After careful consideration of feedback received during the consultation period, the ARLC has decided not to proceed with the proposed kick-off rule change, which would have allowed the conceding team the option to kick off or receive the kick-off following a try.

“The ARLC acknowledged the strong engagement from stakeholders and noted that, while the proposal was initially supported in principle, consultation identified a number of concerns.”

The commission endorsed a trial of a proposed rule regarding the non-scoring team having the option of kicking-off or receiving from the restart. The change will be trialled in games with no bearing on the finals at the back end of the 2026 season before further consideration.

Chairman Peter V’landys said the decisions reflected the commission’s commitment to a consultative approach to rule changes.

“The consultation process was thorough and constructive, and while there was initial support for the kick-off proposal, stakeholders raised legitimate concerns,” V’landys said.

“After weighing that feedback carefully, the commission determined that it was not in the best interests of the game to proceed with that particular change at this time.

“The changes that are being implemented are intended to build on the success of the 2025 season by enhancing the entertainment value for fans, while also providing additional tactical options for coaches.”

The ARLC approved the following on-field rule changes

Trainer rules

Trainers will be restricted from entering the field of play to prescribed and clearly defined circumstances. This will ensure player safety remains the priority while reducing unnecessary intrusions by trainers carrying messages.

Interchange rules

Teams may interchange four players, up to eight times per match, from a squad of six players (players 14 to 19 inclusive).

Accidental breach (“zero tackle”) in-goal

There will be no seven-tackle set following a knock-on in-goal by the attacking team.

Restarting the tackle count

For certain infringements beyond the 20-metre line, the tackle count will restart, replacing the current 40-metre threshold.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/rugby-league-proposed-kick-off-rule-change-a-no-go-for-nrl-2026/

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Low honey harvest expected as North Island beekeepers grapple with storm effects

Source: Radio New Zealand

Recent storms which have resulted in blocked roads have stopped beekeepers from getting to their hives. 123RF

Beekeepers blocked from getting to their hives mid-harvest due to roads closed by recent storms, are expecting a lighter and later honey harvest this year.

Storms across the upper North Island in mid-January caused widespread slips that shut roads and state highways, particularly in Bay of Plenty and the East Coast.

Barry Foster, an industry stalwart and semi-retired beekeeper of Tai Rāwhiti, said harvest was one of the busiest times of the year, but it was interrupted by the storms.

“The result is that numbers of beekeepers around the district have hives that they can’t access at the moment because of the lack of roads,” he said.

Foster said one beekeeper’s hives, truck and loader were still stuck in the Waioweka Gorge, that remained closed following slips.

“He needs this gear and he needs to access his hives to treat them for varroa mite, and other things.

“Thankfully, he’d taken his honey off then, but he can’t access important vehicles to do the rest of his 2000-odd boxes of honey he’s got to take off.”

A beekeeper tending his hives RNZ/Sally Round

Foster said the geology of the East Coast was fragile and the area had suffered a lot of slips, particularly north of Tolaga Bay.

“Te Araroa has been badly affected, it’s been cut off at the top of the East Cape. Roads are blocked from slips, so it’s having a multiplying effect.”

He said access was compromised for some affected beekeepers whose hives were found near wild mānuka crops in remote backcountry.

“It’s not just us that are affected, it’s farmers and beekeepers who can’t access their hives and do the things that they need to do in a timely manner, like harvest honey and control of bee mite, the varroa mite.”

He said moisture was a challenge in the hive.

“Bees need sun and warmth, and plants need the same to produce nectar and moisture too, but not too much moisture.

“Those are the combinations, so if you get a deluge, it’s affecting the whole linked ecosystem.”

A beekeeper inspecting a hive. Linda Newstom-Lloyd

Bad weather hits national honey harvest

Karin Koss, chief executive of industry group Apiculture New Zealand, said national honey production was down this year.

“Harvest started well, but the recent bad weather has seen the harvest fall short of early expectations,” she said.

Honey extraction business Gielen Family Farm of Motukarara in Banks Peninsula had a late harvest last year and this year too.

Co-owner Stacey Gielen said weather delayed harvest into late December.

“Our first job was just after Christmas. My customer in Ashburton; she always has really strong, really healthy hives,” she said.

“It’s been really great to see how much honey she brought in, because we certainly don’t see any sort of volume like that at home at the moment.”

Gielen said it was hard to say how the remainder of the season would go.

“If the weather’s going to carry on like that, I don’t think there’s going to be a lot of honey to go about for just local honey producers.”

Foster said many in the honey industry were cash-strapped after a few tough years of low honey sales.

But he said higher demand for pollination services from the booming horticulture sector was helping offset this.

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‘Dying is hard to do’: Cancer patient says KiwiSaver withdrawal bar too high

Source: Radio New Zealand

123RF

A man who has cancer says he’s been so discouraged by what he’s discovered about early KiwiSaver withdrawals that he hasn’t even tried to get much-needed money out of his account – and wants the system to change.

The man, who wants only to be identified as Christopher because he has not told his teenage children about his prognosis, said he had been given about three years to live.

He was told in August that his cancer was stage four and terminal.

“At the time of discovery in August, the doctor said that based on what he saw, I only had a handful of months left. Fortunately, I have private health insurance and was therefore able to actually be seen and start treatment. If I hadn’t already had private health insurance, I’m sure I would have died before I was able to start treatment, if I’d been forced to rely strictly on the public health system.”

He said researching what was involved in a hardship application for KiwiSaver was “so discouraging” that it did not make sense to go through it and be rejected.

“I’ve got limited time and fighting with someone that’s holding my money and refusing to give it up is just one more stress I can’t afford.”

He pointed to a case that was dealt with by Financial Services Complaints Ltd, in which a woman wanted to withdraw her money early.

She too had incurable cancer and was not expected to reach 65.

She applied on the basis of serious illness but was declined because the supervisor for the scheme said she did not meet the criteria because she was expected to live at least another 12 months.

She argued it was unfair because she was not going to need the money for retirement. She said it was also unfair to say she was able to work because she was sacrificing time with her family to do so.

FSCL said the decision to decline her application was reasonable given that she did not face an imminent risk of death, which was determined as likely to happen in the next six to 12 months.

Christopher said he had lost his job as a public servant and had eight months without work before he found a contract role that lasts until June.

“Different kinds of cancer have different effects. Pancreatic cancer for example, is extremely painful and quite brutal. I’ve got bowel/colon cancer so the immediate first-order effects are moderate in comparison. However, things like the side-effects of chemo, the fact that treatment is two days out of five working days … it’s a lot for an employer to be willing to deal with. Those two days are strictly for the treatment/chemo infusion. The next day … it’s hard to even get out of bed. For me, that’s every other week.

“And that’s not even going into the various side effects of the medication, like puking, hyper-sensitivity to cold, brain fog and so forth.

“Even when I move, I’m super slow compared to a few months ago … Future contracts mean I have to disclose my diagnosis and hope that doesn’t mean I lose the contract to someone that doesn’t have cancer.”

He said living in Wellington with a mortgage and two kids meant that he had to work.

“I’ve got two or three years where I’ll be able to essentially function but … living ain’t easy. And dying is surprisingly hard too it seems. Instead of being able to spend time with the family, I’m either working or sleeping.”

He said the system should change.

“In theory, it’s my money. The government is apparently confident enough in my ability to manage it and get good returns, that they’ve cut the amount they’re willing to match.

“And yet trying to actually do something with it, people are treated as if they’re applying for a loan and have to justify it to the bank/service provider. I understand that there need to be rules to prevent people withdrawing it willy-nilly but when you’re talking about someone literally dying … I think it’s a bit ridiculous.

“I don’t deserve to actually enjoy the couple of remaining years of good life that I have and instead have to wait until I’m knocking on the hospice door, before they’ll reluctantly agree that they guess they can release my money? It feels like the banks/service providers consider it to be their money and it’s massively inconvenient for them when we need access to it. With the amount of profits the banking sector has turned in over the last few years, it’s kind of hard to swallow that these rules are in place just for my own good.”

David Callanan, general manager of corporate trustee services at Public Trust. Supplied / Public Trust

David Callanan, general manager of corporate trustee services at Public Trust, said he was sorry to hear about Christopher’s situation. He said while he could not speak about a specific case, in general people could apply to withdraw money under significant hardship or serious illness criteria.

“Under a serious illness application, people may meet criteria for ‘imminent risk of death’ as stated by law, allowing a full withdrawal of their KiwiSaver investment. The Financial Services Council’s guidelines interpret this as the person being diagnosed with a terminal illness with 18 months or less to live.

“However, supervisors and providers are encouraged to take a commonsense approach and the supervisor assesses each application individually.

“As part of the withdrawal application, the person will need a doctor or nurse practitioner to complete a declaration form confirming their illness. This form asks the medical practitioner to give a detailed description of their patient’s condition and attach any supporting evidence.

“Under a serious illness withdrawal application, a person may meet criteria to withdraw if they are totally and permanently unable to work due to their illness. This could allow them to access a full or partial withdrawal, or one-off costs.

“A person can also apply to withdraw on significant financial hardship grounds. In most cases, this could allow them to access an amount equivalent to up to 13 weeks of living expenses, including any one-off costs. We encourage people to speak to their KiwiSaver provider in the first instance to discuss early withdrawal options.”

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Watch: Prime Minister speaks after meeting with the Iwi Chairs Forum

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Prime Minister is due to speak to reporters after meeting with the Iwi Chairs Forum, which gave its backing to a court case against a piece of government legislation.

Minister for Māori Crown Relations Tama Potaka said the meeting was “robust” and “interrogative”, but also an “exchange.”

“There needs to be an exchange of ideas, an exchange of investigative queries, but also a sense of optimism and progress, and that’s what we’ve seen [on wednesday].”

Potaka said there were always questions around legislative frameworks and funding.

Christopher Luxon is in Waitangi with a contingent of government ministers ahead of the political pōwhiri taking place on Thursday, which he will attend.

Luxon was keen to talk to the Forum about the weather response and the economy.

Christopher Luxon is in Waitangi with a contingent of government ministers. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

But Iwi leaders are throwing their support behind a Ngāti Manuhiri court case against the government’s amendments to the Marine and Coastal Environments Act.

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith said this issue wasn’t raised directly. In terms of relations between Māori and the Crown, Goldsmith said “we are absolutely positive on opportunities for Māori to thrive and succeed”.

“There’s a lot we agree on, there’s lots of things we disagree on, but there’s plenty that we can work constructively together on, so it’s very positive.”

Prior to the meeting taking place, Pou Tangata chair Rahui Papa said the key message to the government would be what strategies would they employ to bolster Māori aspirations, instead of legislation which “unpicks” te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Afterward, Tukuroirangi Morgan of Waikato-Tainui said it was a “productive” meeting, saying the iwi leaders were at a position where “we need to get stuff done”.

Despite being election year he said, work needed to continue.

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“And the government needs to be conscious that actually working in a much more strategic way to complete action plans, business plans, all of the stuff that we’ve been talking to them for a long, long time should get done.”

Morgan said the Prime Minister was “very committed” to the Treaty relationship.

“We have to try and find creative ways of working with the government in the face of tough economic times, there are still opportunities, and we need to take those opportunities.”

And Aperahama Edwards of Ngāti Wai called the meeting “beneficial”.

“Some of the sensitive things that needed to be discussed were discussed. Some of the pain points that our people have been experiencing were addressed, at least given voice to, and then other matters were spoken to as well.”

Speaking to the mood at Waitangi compared to the last time Luxon was there in 2024, Edwards said there was still “a lot of pain”.

“Our people are hurting, and we’re mindful of that, but there’s also a calm here as well, and an optimism at the thought of what sort of change might be coming.”

Te Arataura chairperson Tukuroirangi Morgan with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. RNZ/Calvin Samuel

Labour, meanwhile, is dealing with the shock resignation of Peeni Henare, who is calling time on his 12-year Parliamentary career.

Henare announced his plans on Tuesday, citing exhaustion and a desire to spend more time focusing on his family and future.

While it was known Henare would not be contesting the Tāmaki Makaurau seat, his announcement he would not be standing at all came in the middle of a joint press conference by the Labour and Green Party leadership.

He told one media platform of his plans before Labour had the chance to put out its own announcement, but Labour leader Chris Hipkins, who initially refused to answer questions about the resignation, denied the announcement had been bungled.

New Zealand First Deputy leader – and a relation of Henare’s – Shane Jones, was now questioning the circumstances around the resignation, and was planning to find out “exactly what has happened”.

As well, local government and diplomatic corps representatives were welcomed onto the Treaty Grounds with a pōwhiri for the Kiingitanga taking place this afternoon.

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Watch live: Prime Minister speaks after meeting with the Iwi Chairs Forum

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Prime Minister is due to speak to reporters after meeting with the Iwi Chairs Forum, which gave its backing to a court case against a piece of government legislation.

Minister for Māori Crown Relations Tama Potaka said the meeting was “robust” and “interrogative”, but also an “exchange.”

“There needs to be an exchange of ideas, an exchange of investigative queries, but also a sense of optimism and progress, and that’s what we’ve seen [on wednesday].”

Potaka said there were always questions around legislative frameworks and funding.

Christopher Luxon is in Waitangi with a contingent of government ministers ahead of the political pōwhiri taking place on Thursday, which he will attend.

Luxon was keen to talk to the Forum about the weather response and the economy.

Christopher Luxon is in Waitangi with a contingent of government ministers. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

But Iwi leaders are throwing their support behind a Ngāti Manuhiri court case against the government’s amendments to the Marine and Coastal Environments Act.

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith said this issue wasn’t raised directly. In terms of relations between Māori and the Crown, Goldsmith said “we are absolutely positive on opportunities for Māori to thrive and succeed”.

“There’s a lot we agree on, there’s lots of things we disagree on, but there’s plenty that we can work constructively together on, so it’s very positive.”

Prior to the meeting taking place, Pou Tangata chair Rahui Papa said the key message to the government would be what strategies would they employ to bolster Māori aspirations, instead of legislation which “unpicks” te Tiriti o Waitangi.

Afterward, Tukuroirangi Morgan of Waikato-Tainui said it was a “productive” meeting, saying the iwi leaders were at a position where “we need to get stuff done”.

Despite being election year he said, work needed to continue.

Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“And the government needs to be conscious that actually working in a much more strategic way to complete action plans, business plans, all of the stuff that we’ve been talking to them for a long, long time should get done.”

Morgan said the Prime Minister was “very committed” to the Treaty relationship.

“We have to try and find creative ways of working with the government in the face of tough economic times, there are still opportunities, and we need to take those opportunities.”

And Aperahama Edwards of Ngāti Wai called the meeting “beneficial”.

“Some of the sensitive things that needed to be discussed were discussed. Some of the pain points that our people have been experiencing were addressed, at least given voice to, and then other matters were spoken to as well.”

Speaking to the mood at Waitangi compared to the last time Luxon was there in 2024, Edwards said there was still “a lot of pain”.

“Our people are hurting, and we’re mindful of that, but there’s also a calm here as well, and an optimism at the thought of what sort of change might be coming.”

Te Arataura chairperson Tukuroirangi Morgan with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. RNZ/Calvin Samuel

Labour, meanwhile, is dealing with the shock resignation of Peeni Henare, who is calling time on his 12-year Parliamentary career.

Henare announced his plans on Tuesday, citing exhaustion and a desire to spend more time focusing on his family and future.

While it was known Henare would not be contesting the Tāmaki Makaurau seat, his announcement he would not be standing at all came in the middle of a joint press conference by the Labour and Green Party leadership.

He told one media platform of his plans before Labour had the chance to put out its own announcement, but Labour leader Chris Hipkins, who initially refused to answer questions about the resignation, denied the announcement had been bungled.

New Zealand First Deputy leader – and a relation of Henare’s – Shane Jones, was now questioning the circumstances around the resignation, and was planning to find out “exactly what has happened”.

As well, local government and diplomatic corps representatives were welcomed onto the Treaty Grounds with a pōwhiri for the Kiingitanga taking place this afternoon.

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Ardie Savea scapegoating ‘totally unfair’: All Blacks speak out on Razor-gate

Source: Radio New Zealand

Senior All Blacks have closed ranks around Ardie Savea after the superstar flanker bore the brunt of public backlash for Scott Robertson’s sacking.

Rumours of a Savea-led revolt against Robertson have been rife but firmly rejected by both players and NZ Rugby.

All Blacks hooker Codie Taylor staunchly hit back at the criticism of Savea.

“The way the narrative has been put onto Ards is totally unfair. When someone of his calibre goes away to a different comp, it’s easy to point fingers but that’s not the case at all. I know for a fact he wants the best for this team and he really respected Razor.”

Rumours of a Savea-led revolt against Robertson have been firmly rejected by both players and NZ Rugby. Kerry Marshall / www.photosport.nz

Patrick Tuipulotu said Savea was an easy target.

“He’s been used as a scapegoat where he’s just expressed his views in a review where everyone on the team does. I suppose it’s just easy to latch onto him because he is probably the best player in the world at the moment. So yeah, bit disappointing, but people are going to say what they say.

“It won’t bother him. He’s the type of guy just carry on.”

Fellow loose forward Wallace Sititi reiterated that Savea will be unfazed by the speculation.

“He’s my brother, so yeah it’s a bit disappointing, but the fans are passionate about their footy, but we all know who Ardie is as a person and that’s the main thing.”

Sititi said putting the politics aside, the reality of the saga is that a man has lost his job.

“We’ve got to acknowledge the human factor of it. The jersey demand’s the best but I just wish Razor and his family the best.”

Having worked closely with Robertson with the Crusaders, Taylor said it was a hard personal pill to swallow.

Codie Taylor playing against the Pumas in Nelson. Photosport

“It was pretty tough. Came as a bit of a shock. I have got a lot of respect for Ray as a person, as a coach, what he’s achieved and for with what’s happened I feel for him and his family but I suppose from a high performance point of view, they’ve made the decision and now it’s looking to the future.”

Taylor said Robertson was incredibly passionate about the position.

“I know he gave everything, and wanted to give everything for the All Blacks every week and he wanted the best of the players, and for a coach to be like that, I know he was good for the group and there’s just some things that probably haven’t shaped up the way they should have.”

Having reached out to Robertson to offer support, Taylor said the enigmatic Robertson was struggling.

“He’s not great as anyone would expect when you get the honour of his job and then it’s taken away, and he’s feeling it. New Zealand’s a small place, so I feel for him, I feel for Jane (his wife), and his kids.”

Tuipulotu said there was also a real feeling of indecision amongst the players.

“Especially with the head coach vacancy. I suppose it’s the chance for players to step up and keep the group gelled. A lot of unknown and interesting times. Not knowing what’s going to happen, that’s the uneasy bit. However, in this day and age, high performance sport [is] really cut-throat and it just shows how it cut-throat it is. So it just means we have to be on our game a bit more.”

The injured Blues lock said senior All Blacks have been sure to stay connected during the fallout.

Tuipulotu and other senior All Blacks have been in close communication after Robertson was fired. ActionPress

“After it was announced about Razor, we had a team Zoom to sort of make it clear what happened and what the decision was, and it was important for the playing group to focus on Super Rugby, play well, and then hopefully by the time Super Rugby’s done, there’s a new coach and something in place for them and for us to come into.”

As for whether change was needed?

“Yes and no. I think there’s always change for improvement and certainly probably felt there was improvement needed.”

Tuipulotu said players have shared their hopes for the new man to take the reins.

“There’s a list there, but none of us know who the shortlist is. So I think we’re sort of asked what we see in a coach, what we want in a coach personally. So I think that was delivered to a panel.”

He said the reaction to the news by the public was just part and parcel for the All Blacks.

“I think we just have some die-hard fans who want to see us do well and that’s all part of the game.”

Taylor reiterated this notion.

“I think it’s sort of expected, right? It’s a high performance environment. It’s pretty ruthless. A process was played out and this is the outcome of it, It’s been done now, we just have to look forward to what’s ahead and hopefully we get back on that stage and be dominant.”

While a turbulent time for the team, Sititi believes the All Blacks remain a force in world rugby.

“I think we’ve still got our aura. I’m going to back my brothers, and back the black jersey.”

Wallace Sititi. Daniel Carson/Photosport NZ

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Ducks euthanised after found hunting and killing freshly hatched native chicks

Source: Radio New Zealand

The adult pūteketeke didn’t see the danger as they don’t perceive ducks as a threat, DOC says. Supplied / Department of Conservation

Three murderous mallards have been euthanised after preying on pūteketeke chicks in Canterbury’s Mackenzie basin.

Department of Conservation (DOC) rangers were shocked when a person sent in photos of three ducks hunting and killing freshly hatched native pūteketeke (Australasian crested grebe) chicks next to Lake Alexandrina, south of Lake Tekapo.

The pūteketeke garnered international attention in 2023 when comedian John Oliver successfully campaigned for it to win the Forest and Bird’s Bird of the Century crown.

In a press release, DOC principal biodiversity ranger Dean Nelson said staff were horrified to see graphic photos of the chicks being eaten alive, as it was unusual for ducks to prey on other birds.

“Mallard ducks usually eat plant material, with a little bit of protein from insects and snails during the breeding season,” he said.

“It was shocking to see them eating pūteketeke chicks. We went out there straight away and I observed three mallard ducks in the outlet creek where the grebe nests are.”

Nelson said the ducks were “actively scoping out the pūteketeke nests to see if they had chicks”.

Pūteketeke are classed as nationally vulnerable birds. Supplied / Department of Conservation

“The adult pūteketeke didn’t see the danger as they don’t perceive the ducks as a threat.”

Duck behaviour of this nature was unknown to DOC’s experts, with further concern it could spread, as ducks learnt from each other, Nelson said.

“There was a case which was referenced in a research paper from a Cambridge University scientist describing how a group of mallard ducks were attacking and eating the chicks of two common bird species in Romania in 2017. It claimed this was a world first and the ducks may have been searching for a source of protein before laying eggs and nesting,” he said.

The person who raised concerns did the right thing by calling the department and taking photos as evidence, Nelson said.

“This is a great example of people taking action for nature and looking out for our vulnerable species. While some people think the pūteketeke is introduced because of its name (the Australasian crested grebe), the reality is they’re native and are classed as nationally vulnerable,” he said.

“We want the public to be really engaged with nature. People can be our eyes and ears out ‘naturing’ and that’s fantastic for us, as our rangers can’t be everywhere.”

Campers and boaties around Canterbury’s popular Lake Benmore shoreline were asked to look out for pūteketeke over the summer period last December following reports of nests being disturbed at the Ōhau C campground.

Many nests neighboured the boat ramp and spread out around the lake shore.

The pūteketeke colony had 40 to 50 nests annually for the last five breeding seasons and birds had raised their young much later than usual in the outlet creek next to Lake Alexandrina.

DOC staff had caught the three ducks in question with nets and removed them from the site and humanely euthanised them.

Staff were also heading out again on Wednesday to check no other mallard ducks had repeated the behaviour.

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Man shot by police after allegedly points shotgun at officers in Hamilton

Source: Radio New Zealand

A cordon is in place on Ulster Street in Hamilton. Libby Kirkby-McLeod

A man is in a critical condition after being shot by police in Hamilton.

About 10am, police swarmed a Hamilton street and closed off a hotel.

In Inspector Will Loughrin said police responded to reports of a vehicle driving “erratically” in Te Awamutu just before 9am.

Information suggested the driver was wanted by police in relation to other serious incidents.

When police caught up to the vehicle on Ulster Street in Hamilton, the man allegedly pointed a shotgun at police.

“Police appealed for the man to put the shotgun down, which he failed to do.

“An officer then fired two shots at the offender.”

Medical assistance was given to the man immediately before he was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

He was now in a moderate condition, Loughrin said, and his injuries were not believed to be life threatening.

“A second occupant of the vehicle was taken into custody at the scene,” Loughrin said.

“Thankfully, no police staff were injured in this incident.”

Loughrin said Ulster Street remains closed off from the Mill Street intersection and the public is urged to avoid the area.

“We want to reassure the community that there is no ongoing public safety risk following this incident.

“Police are conducting reassurance patrols around the area. The community can also expect to see an increased police presence in the coming days.”

Earlier, an RNZ reporter at the scene said police cars could be seen parked in the street and police officers were going door-to-door speaking with people.

They declined to answer questions.

Alpha Motel manager Ford McArley, inside the cordon, said he also heard something before police arrived at the scene.

“I started drilling in the rooms to put TVs on the wall and just heard what sounded like two car tyres, and didn’t think anything of it,” he said.

“And then right outside the motel, there were police everywhere.”

McArley said police weren’t saying much about what happened.

He said it wasn’t typical of the street.

“I’ve been here just about three months now, and we’ve never had the street blocked off like this,” McArley said.

Police were expected to speak to media on Wednesday afternoon.

Loughrin said a critical incident investigation was underway and the incident will also be referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.

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LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/man-shot-by-police-after-allegedly-points-shotgun-at-officers-in-hamilton/

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Wellington’s Ma Point Wastewater Plant shuts down as floors flood, staff evacuate

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington’s Moa Point wastewater treatment plant has been shut down and staff evacuated from the site, after an equipment failure flooded multiple floors.

Untreated wastewater is being discharged into the sea and that may continue for some time, Wellington Water chief executive Pat Dougherty said.

“This is a serious situation and we anticipate the plant will be shut down for an extended period,” he said.

Wellington’s Moa Point wastewater treatment plant on Wednesday. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Dougherty strongly advised the public to stay away from south coast beaches, and said a rāhui would be placed over the affected area.

“We will have boots on the ground today, with our customer teams distributing information about public health and advice.

“An environmental team will be undertaking water quality testing. More information will be provided at lunchtime today. This is a complex incident, and all necessary resources are being utilised,” he said.

Dougherty said it was unacceptable.

A sign warning of a sewage discharge from Moa Point. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“We apologise to the public, local community and our iwi partners for the public health and environmental impact caused.”

The mechanical failure began at 1am on Wednesday.

Fire and emergency shift manager Murray Dunbar said three fire trucks responded to a fire alarm activation there about 12.40 am.

The crews reported they were unable to access the lower building due to flooding and they were going to wait for a building representative to be contacted and respond, Dunbar said.

The Moa Point problem followed two other wastewater discharge notices on Tuesday night, which were caused by heavy rain.

Wellington Water’s Moa Point treatment plant (file photo). Wellington Water

Partially treated wastewater was discharged into Wellington’s Karori Stream at 10.45pm on Tuesday, which flows into the sea on the south coast.

About half an hour before that, fully treated sewage was released at 10.18pm into Waiwhetū Stream in Lower Hutt, which flows into the sea near Petone beach.

Water monitoring body Land, Air, Water Aotearoa advised people to stay out of the sea for two or three days after heavy rain.

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Football Ferns bring in new faces for World Cup qualifiers

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington Phoenix player Pia Vlok has been called up to the Football Ferns for the first time. photosport

Fresh from scoring Wellington Phoenix’s first hattrick in the A-League Women, Pia Vlok will make her senior debut with the Football Ferns as the team begins the qualification process for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

Head coach Michael Mayne has named two new faces in the 23-player squad for this month’s qualifying journey in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

Seventeen year-old Vlok, who captaining New Zealand at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup last year, is joined by Newcastle Jets’ standout Charlotte Lancaster in a new cycle for the Football Ferns.

Lancaster is having a breakout A-League season and has scored three goals in eight games from midfield.

Goalkeeper Maddie Iro is also selected as part of the initial squad for the first time after joining as an injury replacement for October’s games in Mexico and the USA.

“It is great to get this group together ahead of an important year and start the journey to achieve the first of our goals, qualifying for Brazil in 2027,” Mayne said.

“This tour presents some different challenges, especially with the global nature of our squad and players both in the middle of competitive seasons or in preseason and looking to establish themselves, so we have had to account for a number of factors when selecting the final 23.

“I am confident we have the right balance of those who were available for selection and a group that are able to get straight to work when we arrive in Honiara to secure our qualification for the semi and finals back in New Zealand.”

Mayne said he wanted competition to be high in every position but was also working to ensure players “can thrive mentally and physically at this level with the high demands to perform as a cohesive team”.

“What has been exciting to see, and aligns with our strategy to build capability, is seeing players performing well and consistently in their leagues, so rewarding Pia and Charlotte, who have earned call ups after making a big impact in the A-League Women, is great to be able to do.”

The Football Ferns will begin their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 qualifying journey, as part of Group A at the Oceania Qualifiers, on 27 February against Samoa, before facing hosts Solomon Islands on 2 March and American Samoa on 5 March.

All games will be played at the National Stadium in Honiara, Solomon Islands.

The top two sides in Group A will then take on the top two from Group B, played in Fiji, in the Semi-Final and Final of the Oceania Qualifiers, played in New Zealand, to secure a place in Brazil for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.

The full squad is:

  • Liz Anton (25 caps/0 goals) Canberra United, Australia
  • Mackenzie Barry (22/1) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Hannah Blake (8/0) Durham FC, England
  • Kelli Brown (9/0) Newcastle Jets, Australia
  • Claudia Bunge (38/0) Melbourne Victory, Australia
  • Milly Clegg (20/2) Vittsjö GIK, Sweden
  • Manaia Elliott (5/0) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Victoria Esson (31/0) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Michaela Foster (30/1) Durham FC, England
  • Maya Hahn (8/1) FC Viktoria Berlin, Germany
  • Maddie Iro (0/0) Hills United, Australia
  • Deven Jackson (7/0) Melbourne City, Australia
  • Grace Jale (35/8) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Katie Kitching (23/6) Sunderland AFC, England
  • Charlotte Lancaster (debut) Newcastle Jets, Australia
  • Meikayla Moore (75/4) Calgary Wild, Canada
  • Emma Pijnenburg (8/0) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Indiah-Paige Riley (34/3) Crystal Palace, England
  • Alina Santos (1/0) University of Denver, USA
  • Rebekah Stott (108/4) Melbourne City, Australia
  • Pia Vlok (debut) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Lara Wall (2/0) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
  • Grace Wisnewski (5/0) FC Nordsjælland, Denmark

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Dane Coles confirmed as missing piece in All Black coach appointment panel

Source: Radio New Zealand

Dane Coles PhotoSport

NZ Rugby (NZR) has confirmed today that Dane Coles is the recently retired player on its appointments panel for the next All Black coach.

NZR had previously announced the five-person panel would include Board Chair David Kirk, 132-test All Black Keven Mealamu, interim CEO Steve Lancaster and former Black Sox coach Don Tricker.

Coles comes back into the All Black environment after retiring in 2023, having played 90 tests over 11 seasons.

The panel will find a successor to Scott Robertson, who was sensationally sacked as All Black coach last month.

Robertson guided the team to 20 wins in 27 tests over two seasons, however Kirk said that the NZR board had concerns over the trajectory of the team before next year’s World Cup in Australia.

The leading candidates appear to be Jamie Joseph and Dave Rennie, after the confirmations that Joe Schmidt will stay in his role as Wallaby coach, and Vern Cotter’s move to the Queensland Reds next season.

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Person critical, hotel cordoned off after gunfire in Hamilton

Source: Radio New Zealand

A cordon is in place on Ulster Street in Hamilton. Libby Kirkby-McLeod

A person has been taken to hospital in a critical condition as police swarm a Hamilton street and close off a hotel.

A motel staff member inside the cordon along Ulster Street and Abbotsford Street in the suburb of Whitiora said they heard gunshots about 10am on Wednesday.

St John said they were called to the scene just before 10am and had taken a critically injured person to Waikato Hospital.

A police spokesperson said cordons were in place while they responded to an incident but did not provide further details.

Libby Kirkby-McLeod

An RNZ reporter at the scene said police cars could be seen parked in the street and police officers are going door-to-door speaking with people.

They declined to answer questions.

A resident who wanted to go home had been told by police he was not able to at this time.

Alpha Motel manager Ford McArley, inside the cordon, said he also heard something before police arrived at the scene.

“I started drilling in the rooms to put TVs on the wall and just heard what sounded like two car tyres, and didn’t think anything of it,” he said.

“And then right outside the motel, there were police everywhere.”

McArley said police weren’t saying much about what happened.

He said it wasn’t typical of the street.

“I’ve been here just about three months now, and we’ve never had the street blocked off like this,” McArley said.

Police were expected to speak to media about what happened on Wednesday afternoon.

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New Plymouth cycleway: ‘Mallowpuff’ lane dividers to replace controversial ‘Tim Tams’

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Plymouth mayor Max Brough previously said the removal or modification of the cycleway would be one of his first jobs. ROBIN MARTIN / RNZ

The mayor of New Plymouth has revealed low-profile rubber lane dividers will replace the city’s controversial concrete cycleway separators – nicknamed Tim Tams due to their resemblance to the popular biscuit.

In a video briefing Max Brough said the rubber lane dividers – he’d branded Mallowpuffs – would replace the Tim Tams along a stretch of Devon Street West.

“We’re going from Tim Tams to Mallowpuffs. The concept is that we’re going to go away from those horrible concrete blocks that are causing so much stress and the new ones are going to be put down and I think people are going to be pleasantly surprised.”

Brough campaigned on pulling up the Tim Tams and wanted to turn it into a community event.

He apologised for how long it was taking.

“The Tim Tam battle could’ve been accelerated faster but we’ve got where we’ve got to and it’s largely down to the cost.”

The Transport Agency paid for and installed the $3.8 million cycleway and council staff had estimated it would cost $1.6 million to remove them adding 1.1 percent to rates.

Brough said councillors had baulked at the expense during a December meeting that recommended they remain for at least nine months.

“That was the appetite in the chamber on the day if we’re going to rip all of that out and go back [to what we had] is it a retrograde step and then the cost that was looked at it came back as too much to be doing in a hurry.”

Some motorists complained they had driven into the concrete lane dividers causing hundreds of dollars worth of damage to their vehicles, but the cycleway was popular with some bike riders and an audit by engineering firm Becca found it had improved safety along Devon Street West which feeds onto State Highway 45.

Brough said NZTA was co-operating with council and a design had been completed for the Morley Street to Belt Road section of Devon Street West.

That work would start at the end of March to coincide with the resealing of the road.

Some carparks would be reinstated and there was an information evening for planned residents.

Max Brough says NZTA are co-operating with council and a design has been completed for the Morley Street to Belt Road section of Devon Street West. ROBIN MARTIN / RNZ

Brough did not clarify what the ‘Mallowpuffs’ would be made of in the video briefing, but he told the Taranaki Daily New they would be low-profile rubber dividers about 80mm high and 2m-long.

Motorists would be able to drive over them.

The Tim Tams were more than 100mm high.

In the video briefing, Brough was not clear whether the ‘Mallowpuff’ solution was a trial or intended to be used along the entire length of the cycleway.

In a statement, council officers said it was only a trial.

“Several different types of separators as an alternative to the current concrete structures, will be trailed, along with a shared path.

“We will be monitoring the trial area and the rest of the corridor and report back to council in September. This will inform the elected members’ decision on what will happen next.”

Tim Tam Alley was the subject of two presentations due to be heard at the first meeting of the council’s new Public Engagement Committee.

The mayor established the committee to give the public a greater opportunity to speak directly with councillors and influence council decisions.

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Shallow 4.4 earthquake rattles lower North Island

Source: Radio New Zealand

GeoNet

A moderate earthquake has struck in the upper South Island.

The 4.4 magnitude quake was at a depth of 9km and 15km east of Seddon.

More than 1500 people had reported feeling the quake shortly after it struck.

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Three men linked to Head Hunters gang sentenced to life in prison for murder

Source: Radio New Zealand

Three men have been sentenced to the life in prison for the murder of West Auckland teenager Jayden Mamfredos-Nair nearly three years ago. Supplied / NZ Police

Three men linked to the Head Hunters gang have been sentenced to life in prison for murdering a West Auckland teenager nearly three years ago.

Three men linked to the Head Hunters gang have been sentenced to life in prison for murdering a West Auckland teenager nearly three years ago.

After disappearing in April 2023, 19-year-old Jayden Mamfredos-Nair’s body was found on a Dairy Flat property nine months later.

Police determined he had been a victim of foul play.

At the High Court in Auckland on Wednesday, patched member Zak Kameta received a minimum period of imprisonment of 18 years.

Prospect Matthew Snaylam and their associate Hassan Al Fadhli both received a minimum period of imprisonment of 17 years.

Police Detective Inspector Callum McNeill said the death had placed a heavy toll on the victim’s family and he hoped they finally had some closure.

Police issued a statement on behalf of Mamfredos-Nair’s mother Maria who said the sentencing marked the end of a long legal journey, but “the ongoing journey of grieving and healing continues”.

“This crime has had a devastating permanent impact on our entire family, his friends and the community who loved him. The grief, the heartbreak, the devastation – it will never go away.”

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‘In crisis every day’: Help needed for community affected by foul-smelling sewage plant

Source: Radio New Zealand

Diggers working at the burnt-out Bromley wastewater treatment plant. Christchurch City Council supplied pictures and video of work to remove rot from inside its filters on 10 June 2022. Christchurch City Council

Bromley community leader Jackie Simons has made an emotional plea for more help to be provided to those affected by the foul stench pouring from a sewage plant.

Simons, who sits on the Waitai Coastal-Burwood-Linwood Community Board, made the plea at a Christchurch City Council meeting on Wednesday morning.

It comes after some residents walked out of a fiery council-led public meeting on Tuesday night in frustration over the fire-damaged plant.

Offensive odours have plagued the city’s eastern suburbs after a fire damaged key infrastructure at the Bromley Wastewater Plant in 2021.

Bromley Wastewater Plant.

Complaints about the odour have spiked recently.

Simons told councillors the situation facing locals had now reached crisis point.

“The wastewater plant still stinks. It’s always stunk. It’s been stinking for the last four years,” she said.

“The last couple of weeks we’ve seen an influx of horrendous smell across the whole city. A crisis has come and everyone is in crisis mode.”

The Canterbury Regional Council had received more than 2000 reports about the plant in this year alone.

One Bromley resident told Morning Report the stench from the city’s sewage plant was so bad it had left her coughing up blood.

The city council said the recent heavy rain had affected the health of the oxidation pond and it was using all available tools to improve water quality.

An emotional and frustrated Simons told elected members she was regularly fielding complaints from the community.

There was a perception the council would have acted sooner if it was happening to more upmarket parts of the city, she said.

“When they come to me and they say ‘if this was happening in Fendalton you would’ve fixed it by now’, ‘the council doesn’t care about us in the east’, ‘they don’t give a toss’, ‘they’re not listening’, ‘when are they going to fix it?’ How am I supposed to tell them that you do care when it took the rest of the city to smell it to stand up and show that you cared.”

The council needed to provide more on-the-ground support for those worst affected, Simons said.

“I’d like to see those people asked ‘what do you need?’. Because a gift basket is no good to someone who needs a lift to the doctor. A supermarket voucher is no good to someone who can’t pay for a prescription,” she said.

“They can’t open their windows, they can’t hang their washing out, they have physical symptoms of ill-health, they have respiratory issues, they have depression, they have mental health challenges because of this situation. They are in crisis every day.”

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Avoiding seed oils is an online trend, but are they as bad as some would have you believe?

Source: Radio New Zealand

In the past 12 months, seed oils have become a divisive topic, with online claims they are “toxic”, “inflammatory”, and cause chronic health conditions.

When United States secretary of health and human services, Robert F Kennedy Jr announced the new US dietary guidelines on 7 January, he promised to “evangelise real food”.

The 2025-2030 guidelines included a new food pyramid putting protein, saturated fats and whole foods in the spotlight.

Robert F Kennedy Jr has claimed seed oils are toxic.

ANDREW HARNIK / AFP

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Reports of fallen rocks closes main road between Christchurch and Sumner

Source: Radio New Zealand

One of the main roads between Christchurch and Sumner is closed following reports of rocks falling the hill above.

Main Road and the adjacent footpath have been closed near Shag Rock Reserve.

Police, Fire and Emergency, and Christchurch City Council staff are in the area.

A council spokesperson said crews are assessing the situation.

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Hotel closed off, police cordons in place after gunfire in Hamilton

Source: Radio New Zealand

A cordon is in place on Ulster Street in Hamilton. Libby Kirkby-McLeod

Police have cordoned off streets in Hamilton and the entrance to a hotel has been taped off after reports of gunfire.

A motel staff member inside the cordon says they heard gunshots about 10am on Wednesday.

A police spokesperson said cordons were in place along Ulster Street and Abbotsford Street in the suburb of Whitiora.

The spokesperson said they were responding to an incident but did not provide further details.

Libby Kirkby-McLeod

An RNZ reporter at the scene said police cars can be seen parked in the street and police officers are going door-to-door speaking with people.

They declined to answer questions.

A resident who wanted to go home had been told by police he was not able to at this time.

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St Kevin’s College pupils stood down as police probe report of serious bullying

Source: Radio New Zealand

St Kevin’s College in Oamaru. St Kevin’s College / Supplied

Three boys have been stood down from an Oamaru high school while police investigate a serious bullying incident at the school’s hostel.

St Kevin’s College says it is supporting the victim’s family.

In a statement, principal Jo Walshe says the incident was reported immediately and the school acted swiftly.

She says the school can’t provide further comment while the incident is under investigation.

The Otago Daily Times is reporting the incident relates to “waterboarding”.

More to come…

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