Lead researcher Cain Richardson said the difference in life expectancy was stark.123rf
New research has found blind or visually impaired New Zealanders die 9 years earlier on average, and make significantly less money.
The report by Blind and Low Vision NZ used anonymised data from StatsNZ to compare the experience of people with visual impairments to other groups.
Lead researcher Cain Richardson told Nine to Noon the difference in life expectancy was stark.
The average age of death for severely visually impaired people was 71, compared to the wider average of 80.
“The stories I’ve heard from a lot of my blind colleagues and friends is anecdotal stories of blind people living shorter lives from things such as, if you have advanced bowel cancer and you don’t have eyesight you’re not going to be able to see blood in your stool, so you’re not going to be picking it up until advanced stages of the disease,” he said.
“It was interesting taking anecdotal stories like that and being able to confirm it through a median age of death.”
Richardson said working-age blind people also made significantly less money than the broader population.
“60 percent of the severely visually impaired population have a calendar year income between 20 and 40,000 dollars a year, which is reflective of what you would receive on the benefit, and then that’s going to have snowball effects onto the rest of your life course outcomes,” he explained.
“What it does capture is the true cost of blindness, in the sense your poverty limits your agency and the ability to make choices to effect your other life course outcomes.”
Andrea Midgen, the CEO of Blind and Low Vision NZ, said the report provided empirical evidence to back the organisation’s campaigning.
“Without this data we can’t make strong evidence-based decisions or advise the government effectively, it really tells us where support is most needed,” she said.
“There’s a lot of policy changes we would like to promote. Particularly at the moment it’s about employment and things like accessibility.”
“There are perceptions out there that people from our community can’t do a job like anybody else, and the lack of awareness and education in this space is a really serious issue.”
Midgen said future studies would hone in on specific issues impacting the blind community.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Summerset chief executive Scott Scoullar said the company’s strategy continued to deliver results.Google Maps
Retirement village operator Summerset has posted a record underlying profit, although weaker property values weighed on its bottom line.
Key numbers for the year ended 31 December compared with a year ago:
Net profit $259.7m v $332m
Revenue $361.8m v $319.9m
Underlying profit $234.2m v $206.4m
Final dividend 13.2 cents per share
Summerset chief executive Scott Scoullar said the company’s strategy continued to deliver results, with underlying profit growth, strong sales and the company meeting its build targets.
“We’ve continued to achieve despite another year where the business environment and property market has been subdued,” he said.
The company sold a record 1560 homes during the year – 805 new sales and 755 resales, with a focus on selling down stock at two major developments: Summerset Boulcott in Lower Hutt and Summerset St Johns in Auckland.
Both were among the company’s top‑performing new‑sales villages.
“Boulcott and St Johns are unique villages for us, due to the land and style of build we delivered large numbers of new homes at once,” he said.
“Selling these down has been a priority this year and we’re pleased to see both villages performing well.”
Sales of care suites also boosted results, with care operating profit rising to $18.8 million, up from $2.7m the previous year.
Summerset delivered 637 homes in New Zealand and 56 in Australia, in line with guidance, and was currently building on 22 sites in both countries.
Progress in Australia
Scoullar said the company continued its measured and deliberate growth plan in Australia and was now gaining momentum.
“We delivered our first village centre building at Cranbourne North in Victoria, marking a key milestone as we prepare to deliver aged care for the first time in Australia.”
It was building two villages in Victoria state and seeking planning permission for a third.
Summerset did not provide earnings guidance for 2026, but Scoullar remained optimistic about demand in both markets.
“Even in constrained trading conditions we have continued to see extremely high demand, record sales numbers and have continued to deliver on our expected build rate in both Australia and New Zealand.”
He said the company had continued to reduce debt and intended to keep strengthening its balance sheet in the coming year.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Attribute to Kāpiti Mana Area Commander, Inspector Renée Perkins:
Police investigating an assault in Cannons Creek last week, have arrested and charged a man.
On Friday 20 February, Police were called to Dido Place after reports of a firearm being discharged. One person was transported to hospital with moderate injuries.
Following enquiries, Police arrested a 22-year-old man yesterday in relation to the incident.
The man is due to appear in Porirua District Court today, charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm with a firearm, and unlawfully possessing a firearm.
Police would like to reassure the public that they are not seeking anyone else in relation to the incident.
Greater Wellington Regional Council transport committee chairperson Ros Connelly said the decision to increase fares by 3.1 percent was carefully considered.
“We know the cost of living is challenging for many households, but we must ensure our fare revenue is sufficient to meet our funding and revenue targets set by NZTA as well as maintain the services people rely on every day.”
From 15 May, the cost of a three‑zone trip will increase by 14 cents, bringing the peak adult Snapper fare to $4.67 for those travelling to the CBD from Miramar or Karori.
For Wairarapa passengers travelling by train from Masterton to Wellington, the fare will rise by 56 cents to $18.50 at peak times.
The discounts for off-peak fares on buses and trains would also decrease from 30 percent to 20 percent.
Metlink senior manager of strategy and investments, Tim Shackleton, said they needed to address a projected revenue shortfall expected to be $3 million for the current financial year.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Greater Wellington Regional Council transport committee chairperson Ros Connelly said the decision to increase fares by 3.1 percent was carefully considered.
“We know the cost of living is challenging for many households, but we must ensure our fare revenue is sufficient to meet our funding and revenue targets set by NZTA as well as maintain the services people rely on every day.”
From 15 May, the cost of a three‑zone trip will increase by 14 cents, bringing the peak adult Snapper fare to $4.67 for those travelling to the CBD from Miramar or Karori.
For Wairarapa passengers travelling by train from Masterton to Wellington, the fare will rise by 56 cents to $18.50 at peak times.
The discounts for off-peak fares on buses and trains would also decrease from 30 percent to 20 percent.
Metlink senior manager of strategy and investments, Tim Shackleton, said they needed to address a projected revenue shortfall expected to be $3 million for the current financial year.
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
The track, a historic route linking Wānaka and Arrowtown and crossing private land, is part of the Te Araroa Trail and is popular with hikers and trail runners.
DOC Operations Manager Charlie Sklenar says a recent routine assessment of the 400 m slip, between Highland Creek Hut and Roses Hut, found it was at risk of becoming larger during storm events.
We’ve been monitoring the slow-moving slip for a number of years. Safety is our highest priority, so when a recent reassessment found it was at risk of further movement, potentially damaging the track, we made the call to close this section and reroute it to a safer location, Charlie says.
DOC staff had been working with the landowner to identify a new path, and a team of rangers was deployed to the remote spot to complete the work last week.
The track was rerouted 350 m, across 180 m of elevation. Marker posts have been moved to the new section, vegetation planted across old entrance points, and directional signs at each end of the re-route are in place to ensure users can easily follow the new route.
“Judging by the amount of foot traffic while staff were undertaking the work, it won’t be long before this new section is well and truly worn in,” says Charlie.
“It’s great to have the new route in place for people out naturing in this iconic Central Otago spot.”
NATURE LOOKS DIFFERENT FROM HERE
Nature isn’t scenery. Nature is a society that we rely on for everything, every day. It’s behind our identity and our way of life.
The track, a historic route linking Wānaka and Arrowtown and crossing private land, is part of the Te Araroa Trail and is popular with hikers and trail runners.
DOC Operations Manager Charlie Sklenar says a recent routine assessment of the 400 m slip, between Highland Creek Hut and Roses Hut, found it was at risk of becoming larger during storm events.
We’ve been monitoring the slow-moving slip for a number of years. Safety is our highest priority, so when a recent reassessment found it was at risk of further movement, potentially damaging the track, we made the call to close this section and reroute it to a safer location, Charlie says.
DOC staff had been working with the landowner to identify a new path, and a team of rangers was deployed to the remote spot to complete the work last week.
The track was rerouted 350 m, across 180 m of elevation. Marker posts have been moved to the new section, vegetation planted across old entrance points, and directional signs at each end of the re-route are in place to ensure users can easily follow the new route.
“Judging by the amount of foot traffic while staff were undertaking the work, it won’t be long before this new section is well and truly worn in,” says Charlie.
“It’s great to have the new route in place for people out naturing in this iconic Central Otago spot.”
NATURE LOOKS DIFFERENT FROM HERE
Nature isn’t scenery. Nature is a society that we rely on for everything, every day. It’s behind our identity and our way of life.
Higher cargo volumes driven by a rebound in imports have delivered a strong half-year profit for the country’s biggest port.
Key numbers for the six months ended December compared with a year ago:
Net profit $70.2 million vs $60.2m
Revenue $244m vs $225m
Cargo vols 12.6m tonnes vs 12.4m tonnes
Forecast FY underlying profit between $142m-152m vs actual 2025 $126m
Interim dividend 8 cents per share vs 7 cps
Port of Tauranga chairperson Julia Hoare said the result had been achieved through operational efficiency and control of costs, as a rise in imports made up for a dip in export trade.
“Export volumes were affected by subdued export log demand and a later-than-usual start to the dairy export season, this was offset by strong import demand and improved performance across our subsidiary and joint venture businesses.”
Cargo volumes rose just over 1 percent, with the number of containers handled up nearly 3 percent.
Export volumes were down slightly because of a late start to the dairy season and lower logs exports, but the improving economy drove an increase in imports.
The port’s various subsidiaries including interests in the Timaru Port, Northport, inland cargo handling hubs and logistics, increased their contributions by more than a quarter to $6.2m.
Chief executive Leonard Sampson said the port was putting much effort into improving its resilience and efficiency.
“We are investing in capacity, improving productivity and service delivery to our customers, as well as expanding our network to prepare for future growth.”
That included faster handling of containers, automating some functions, along with ordering equipment and tugs, and dredging the harbour to handle bigger ships in the future.
The port expected a continuation of the first half’s momentum into the rest of the year.
“The later start to the dairy export season, combined with a strong kiwifruit export season from March, is expected to support continued strong volumes in the second half of the financial year.”
Meanwhile, the company has been fast tracked for a consent hearing for a new container berth and is waiting for a hearing.
Sampson said the port was into its seventh year in the planning process to get the Stella Passage project approved and the delay has forced the port to turn away shipping services which would have saved businesses tens of millions of dollars.
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
Higher cargo volumes driven by a rebound in imports have delivered a strong half-year profit for the country’s biggest port.
Key numbers for the six months ended December compared with a year ago:
Net profit $70.2 million vs $60.2m
Revenue $244m vs $225m
Cargo vols 12.6m tonnes vs 12.4m tonnes
Forecast FY underlying profit between $142m-152m vs actual 2025 $126m
Interim dividend 8 cents per share vs 7 cps
Port of Tauranga chairperson Julia Hoare said the result had been achieved through operational efficiency and control of costs, as a rise in imports made up for a dip in export trade.
“Export volumes were affected by subdued export log demand and a later-than-usual start to the dairy export season, this was offset by strong import demand and improved performance across our subsidiary and joint venture businesses.”
Cargo volumes rose just over 1 percent, with the number of containers handled up nearly 3 percent.
Export volumes were down slightly because of a late start to the dairy season and lower logs exports, but the improving economy drove an increase in imports.
The port’s various subsidiaries including interests in the Timaru Port, Northport, inland cargo handling hubs and logistics, increased their contributions by more than a quarter to $6.2m.
Chief executive Leonard Sampson said the port was putting much effort into improving its resilience and efficiency.
“We are investing in capacity, improving productivity and service delivery to our customers, as well as expanding our network to prepare for future growth.”
That included faster handling of containers, automating some functions, along with ordering equipment and tugs, and dredging the harbour to handle bigger ships in the future.
The port expected a continuation of the first half’s momentum into the rest of the year.
“The later start to the dairy export season, combined with a strong kiwifruit export season from March, is expected to support continued strong volumes in the second half of the financial year.”
Meanwhile, the company has been fast tracked for a consent hearing for a new container berth and is waiting for a hearing.
Sampson said the port was into its seventh year in the planning process to get the Stella Passage project approved and the delay has forced the port to turn away shipping services which would have saved businesses tens of millions of dollars.
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
Police were called to a report of personal items abandoned in a suspicious manner on Albert St on Tuesday when officers spotted a man in the water.
They asked him to come back to land but he disappeared under.
A search has been ongoing since, and Palmerston North area prevention manager, inspector Phil Ward, said there had been extensive searches of the river, through to the Foxton Estuary and surrounding area.
Police would continue to conduct drone sweeps of areas of interest and patrols along Foxton Beach, Ward said.
Ward said police wanted to thank everyone involved in the search operation including Land Search and Rescue, Police Search and Rescue, Palmerston North Swiftwater Rescue, regional response teams, and Coastguard Manawatū.
“Police are continuing to provide support to the family of the man.”
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
The guitarist of a young Dunedin band says there was a lot of skepticism when they were handpicked to open for international rock stars Foo Fighters’ when they visit New Zealand next summer.
SEEK HELP! guitarist Lucy Hughes says it was “pretty insane to be honest”.
“When I contacted the band about it no one believed me at first, until two days later when the gig was announced,” Hughes says.
Foo Fighters have announced two huge stadium shows for New Zealand in January 2027.
Supplied
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
The guitarist of a young Dunedin band says there was a lot of skepticism when they were handpicked to open for international rock stars Foo Fighters’ when they visit New Zealand next summer.
SEEK HELP! guitarist Lucy Hughes says it was “pretty insane to be honest”.
“When I contacted the band about it no one believed me at first, until two days later when the gig was announced,” Hughes says.
Foo Fighters have announced two huge stadium shows for New Zealand in January 2027.
Supplied
– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
Police were called to a report of personal items abandoned in a suspicious manner on Albert St on Tuesday when officers spotted a man in the water.
They asked him to come back to land but he disappeared under.
A search has been ongoing since, and Palmerston North area prevention manager, inspector Phil Ward, said there had been extensive searches of the river, through to the Foxton Estuary and surrounding area.
Police would continue to conduct drone sweeps of areas of interest and patrols along Foxton Beach, Ward said.
Ward said police wanted to thank everyone involved in the search operation including Land Search and Rescue, Police Search and Rescue, Palmerston North Swiftwater Rescue, regional response teams, and Coastguard Manawatū.
“Police are continuing to provide support to the family of the man.”
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
Mercury Lane and Beresford Square, two upgraded public spaces framing the forecourts of Karanga-a-Hape Station, are finished and now open for the public to explore.
This milestone completes many years of complex construction works above ground, preparing the area for the opening of the City Rail Link (CRL) in the second half of 2026.
The improvements – led by Auckland Transport and supported by Auckland Council and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) – include upgrades to Pitt Street, Beresford Square, Mercury Lane, Cross Street, Canada Street and East Street.
The works include new footpaths, bus stops, bus lanes, bike lanes, rain gardens and public art in redesigned streets and spaces around the station.
Councillor Andy Baker says the upgrade of station neighbourhoods, the CRL itself and the CRL-enabled timetable will improve how the city moves, grows and competes.
“When you look at the big modern cities, they are all premised on having a really well functioning, efficient and attractive public transport network based on rail, generally.
“Looking at all four CRL station precincts, the one I think is going to go nuts is Karanga-a-Hape. It’s one of our most iconic places in the city. It mirrors a lot of the funky, cosmopolitan parts of other big cities – like Fitzroy in Melbourne,” Councillor Baker says.
“I’m really looking forward to being able to jump on a train down the road from my place in the south, exit the station at Mercury Lane, and head to St. Kevin’s Arcade with its awesome restaurants, or the other eclectic parts of Karangahape Road,” he says.
Auckland Council Director of Resilience and Infrastructure, Barry Potter, says the CRL is a real driver of positive change across the region.
“The CRL’s new stations will also drive development, just as Waitematā Station has in downtown. We’re seeing high quality development around the stations, and that’s massively important. It has a catalyst effect,” he says.
Next station neighbourhood – ready
First it was the Waitematā Station neighbourhood in downtown that was completed. And now Aucklanders can experience the next completed CRL station neighbourhood.
We’ve created a ten-stop walk along Karangahape Road, taking in many of the newest design elements and discovering how they reflect this area’s unique history and identity.
1. Pāua bus shelters
These are much more than bus shelters, sitting on the motorway overpass at the Ponsonby Road end of the main street. The layers of colour symbolise the pāua-shell eyes of Māori carvings reimagined into a material adorning the structures.
Photo credit: KBA.
2. Cycleways
Separated bike lanes along each side of Karangahape Road are popular for active commuters, as are new separated cycle lanes on Canada Street and East Street linking up with existing cycle routes such as Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath. Pitt Street and Vincent Street are also now linked into the cycle network.
3. Public art
Thief sculpture on Karangahape Road.
Karangahape Road has playful public art on almost every corner. Favourites are Twist and Thief, both by Tanja McMillan and John Oz. Small in stature, Thief is a bronze sculpture of a boy and a piglet playing tug of war over a turnip. And Twist is a charming, cartoon-like sculpture of a young girl and her elephant. To find other artworks along Karangahape Road, digitally geo-locate them at aucklandpublicart.com.
4. Rain gardens
Rain gardens bring welcome splashes of foliage to the street, while supporting the city’s stormwater system. Rain run-off flows into the gardens where the soil and plant roots absorb and filter contaminants before the water flows into the stormwater network.
5. Engraved metal discs
Under wooden street furniture you’ll see stainless-steel circular inlays in the paving. Designers drew inspiration for the discs from shell pathways, once said to be found along this ridgeline, reflecting the moonlight and lighting the way. The discs reflect the colours and patterns of light in present day Karangahape Road. Artist Tessa Harris (Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki) guided the design of both the pāua bus shelters and steel discs.
6. Rainbow crossings
An aerial shot of Karangahape Rd. Photo credit: Landlab.
Karangahape Road wouldn’t be true to its identity without a celebration of the rainbow community, embraced by this street throughout its evolution. Walk the two rainbow crossings and feel the vibe of this colourful, inclusive neighbourhood.
7. Beresford Square
Arrive in Beresford Square, the northern forecourt of Karanga-a-Hape Station, and you’ll notice Te Pō – a striking 6-metre vent embellished with bronze-cast manaia (figures) on all four sides. The figures represent kaitiakitanga (stewardship and protection of the natural environment). You’ll see a weathered patina reflecting the texture of pounamu on the surface of each bronze figure. The square’s paving also tells a story. The pattern resembles dappled light shining through a forest canopy, symbolic of Tāne Mahuta, God of the Forest.
8. Mercury Lane
Mercury Lane and station. Photo credit: Auckland Transport.
In Mercury Lane – now a pedestrian-priority space – you will see lighting posts depicting the story of Tāne Mahuta. As the legend goes, with tall trees acting as tokotoko (posts), Tāne held up the sky and let in the light. You’ll also see four engraved kōwhatu (volcanic rocks) in the landscape of Mercury Lane and surrounding streets – these are symbols of life force that acknowledge the flow of people, energy, and stories from all directions and walks of life. Overhead lighting and star motif projections will mark Te Whānau Marama, the light-giving family – the sun, moon, and stars. Lead mana whenua artist for Mercury Lane and Beresford Square was Pāora Puru (Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua).
9. St Kevin’s Arcade
St Kevins Arcade. Photo credit: Tātaki Auckland Unlimited.
Built in 1924, St Kevin’s Arcade is one of the city centre’s heritage jewels. Home to thriving restaurants and clubs, it sits in the heart of this creative, culinary neighbourhood. Take a moment to pause and admire the view of Myers Park.
10. Myers Park
Waimahara artwork at Myers Park.
Myers Park is a place where art truly meets infrastructure. 344 mature trees provide shade in the park, attract birds, improve air quality and absorb carbon. The park’s award-winning artwork Waimahara is interactive – sing a special waiata and the artwork will listen and respond, accompanying you with an awe-inspiring display of light and sound. Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hāua, Ngāti Manu) led this ground-breaking art project.
Read more about the benefits of CRL on OurAuckland.
City Rail Link information brochures are available in eight languages on the Auckland Transport website.
Mercury Lane and Beresford Square, two upgraded public spaces framing the forecourts of Karanga-a-Hape Station, are finished and now open for the public to explore.
This milestone completes many years of complex construction works above ground, preparing the area for the opening of the City Rail Link (CRL) in the second half of 2026.
The improvements – led by Auckland Transport and supported by Auckland Council and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) – include upgrades to Pitt Street, Beresford Square, Mercury Lane, Cross Street, Canada Street and East Street.
The works include new footpaths, bus stops, bus lanes, bike lanes, rain gardens and public art in redesigned streets and spaces around the station.
Councillor Andy Baker says the upgrade of station neighbourhoods, the CRL itself and the CRL-enabled timetable will improve how the city moves, grows and competes.
“When you look at the big modern cities, they are all premised on having a really well functioning, efficient and attractive public transport network based on rail, generally.
“Looking at all four CRL station precincts, the one I think is going to go nuts is Karanga-a-Hape. It’s one of our most iconic places in the city. It mirrors a lot of the funky, cosmopolitan parts of other big cities – like Fitzroy in Melbourne,” Councillor Baker says.
“I’m really looking forward to being able to jump on a train down the road from my place in the south, exit the station at Mercury Lane, and head to St. Kevin’s Arcade with its awesome restaurants, or the other eclectic parts of Karangahape Road,” he says.
Auckland Council Director of Resilience and Infrastructure, Barry Potter, says the CRL is a real driver of positive change across the region.
“The CRL’s new stations will also drive development, just as Waitematā Station has in downtown. We’re seeing high quality development around the stations, and that’s massively important. It has a catalyst effect,” he says.
Next station neighbourhood – ready
First it was the Waitematā Station neighbourhood in downtown that was completed. And now Aucklanders can experience the next completed CRL station neighbourhood.
We’ve created a ten-stop walk along Karangahape Road, taking in many of the newest design elements and discovering how they reflect this area’s unique history and identity.
1. Pāua bus shelters
These are much more than bus shelters, sitting on the motorway overpass at the Ponsonby Road end of the main street. The layers of colour symbolise the pāua-shell eyes of Māori carvings reimagined into a material adorning the structures.
Photo credit: KBA.
2. Cycleways
Separated bike lanes along each side of Karangahape Road are popular for active commuters, as are new separated cycle lanes on Canada Street and East Street linking up with existing cycle routes such as Te Ara I Whiti – The Lightpath. Pitt Street and Vincent Street are also now linked into the cycle network.
3. Public art
Thief sculpture on Karangahape Road.
Karangahape Road has playful public art on almost every corner. Favourites are Twist and Thief, both by Tanja McMillan and John Oz. Small in stature, Thief is a bronze sculpture of a boy and a piglet playing tug of war over a turnip. And Twist is a charming, cartoon-like sculpture of a young girl and her elephant. To find other artworks along Karangahape Road, digitally geo-locate them at aucklandpublicart.com.
4. Rain gardens
Rain gardens bring welcome splashes of foliage to the street, while supporting the city’s stormwater system. Rain run-off flows into the gardens where the soil and plant roots absorb and filter contaminants before the water flows into the stormwater network.
5. Engraved metal discs
Under wooden street furniture you’ll see stainless-steel circular inlays in the paving. Designers drew inspiration for the discs from shell pathways, once said to be found along this ridgeline, reflecting the moonlight and lighting the way. The discs reflect the colours and patterns of light in present day Karangahape Road. Artist Tessa Harris (Ngāi Tai ki Tāmaki) guided the design of both the pāua bus shelters and steel discs.
6. Rainbow crossings
An aerial shot of Karangahape Rd. Photo credit: Landlab.
Karangahape Road wouldn’t be true to its identity without a celebration of the rainbow community, embraced by this street throughout its evolution. Walk the two rainbow crossings and feel the vibe of this colourful, inclusive neighbourhood.
7. Beresford Square
Arrive in Beresford Square, the northern forecourt of Karanga-a-Hape Station, and you’ll notice Te Pō – a striking 6-metre vent embellished with bronze-cast manaia (figures) on all four sides. The figures represent kaitiakitanga (stewardship and protection of the natural environment). You’ll see a weathered patina reflecting the texture of pounamu on the surface of each bronze figure. The square’s paving also tells a story. The pattern resembles dappled light shining through a forest canopy, symbolic of Tāne Mahuta, God of the Forest.
8. Mercury Lane
Mercury Lane and station. Photo credit: Auckland Transport.
In Mercury Lane – now a pedestrian-priority space – you will see lighting posts depicting the story of Tāne Mahuta. As the legend goes, with tall trees acting as tokotoko (posts), Tāne held up the sky and let in the light. You’ll also see four engraved kōwhatu (volcanic rocks) in the landscape of Mercury Lane and surrounding streets – these are symbols of life force that acknowledge the flow of people, energy, and stories from all directions and walks of life. Overhead lighting and star motif projections will mark Te Whānau Marama, the light-giving family – the sun, moon, and stars. Lead mana whenua artist for Mercury Lane and Beresford Square was Pāora Puru (Ngāti Te Ata Waiohua).
9. St Kevin’s Arcade
St Kevins Arcade. Photo credit: Tātaki Auckland Unlimited.
Built in 1924, St Kevin’s Arcade is one of the city centre’s heritage jewels. Home to thriving restaurants and clubs, it sits in the heart of this creative, culinary neighbourhood. Take a moment to pause and admire the view of Myers Park.
10. Myers Park
Waimahara artwork at Myers Park.
Myers Park is a place where art truly meets infrastructure. 344 mature trees provide shade in the park, attract birds, improve air quality and absorb carbon. The park’s award-winning artwork Waimahara is interactive – sing a special waiata and the artwork will listen and respond, accompanying you with an awe-inspiring display of light and sound. Graham Tipene (Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Hāua, Ngāti Manu) led this ground-breaking art project.
Read more about the benefits of CRL on OurAuckland.
City Rail Link information brochures are available in eight languages on the Auckland Transport website.
Where are you at most risk when a flood or bushfire strikes? You might think it’s at home. But in reality, the most dangerous time is when you leave and jump in your car. Many flood and bushfire deaths are linked to vehicles, often driven by people evacuating late.
One of the clearest examples comes from the 2009 Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria, in which 173 people lost their lives; 35 of those deaths occurred during evacuation, with many on the road.
What is going through people’s minds as they try to escape? We don’t have to guess – many self-recorded evacuation videos are publicly posted on social media. We analysed hundreds of these videos from around the globe to get a better understanding of how people end up in these dangerous situations.
We found many people either evacuated late after realising the situation was more dangerous than they first thought, or drove back to defend their property. They thought they were doing the right thing in trying to flee to safety – only to find the roads were far more dangerous than they expected.
[embedded content]
A father and son drive into an increasingly dangerous fire situation and start praying for help.
How risky are roads during bushfires?
When disasters escalate rapidly, the decision to leave can become one of the most crucial moments people face.
Between 2010 and 2020, bushfire deaths in Australia often occurred on the road rather than at the fire front. An analysis found 33 of 65 bushfire deaths during this period were vehicle-related, many during late evacuations.
More recently, an ABC program documented survivor accounts from Black Saturday, including firefighters, people who defended their properties and those who took to the road in the final minutes.
One firefighter’s account, in particular, captures how quickly conditions can change on the road. At first, nothing about the drive appeared unusual.
when I drove up over the top of the hill down into Kinglake, there was nothing untoward. It was just a normal hot day […] a bit of smoke around.
But within minutes, the road environment changed completely.
so I do a U-turn, and there was a wall of smoke. I’m thinking, where did that come from? All of a sudden, […] You can’t see. It was pitch black. As we’re driving, the sides of the roads were igniting.
The risk of conditions changing is not confined to a single event or location. It is a recurring and ongoing feature of bushfire emergencies in Australia.
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A father sings to his daughter to comfort her as they drive through a bushfire.
How dangerous are roads during floods?
Floods present a different kind of threat, but the risks on the road can be just as severe.
In Australia, nearly half of all flood fatalities are associated with vehicles, most commonly when people attempt to drive through flooded roads, crossings, or causeways.
This is not unique to Australia. A study of flood fatalities in Texas, covering the period from 1959 to 2009, shows around 80% of flood deaths with known circumstances were vehicle-related.
These deaths often occur when drivers underestimate water depth or flow speed, assume the road ahead is still passable, or follow other vehicles into floodwater. This can quickly lead to vehicles stalling, being swept away, or trapping occupants in fast-moving water.
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A school bus is swept away by floodwater in Texas, US.
What people experience inside a vehicle
To gain a first-person view of what actually unfolds on the road in these situations, we analysed hundreds of self-recorded evacuation videos.
On bushfire-affected roads, conversations inside vehicles revealed uncertainty as conditions changed quickly. Many drivers showed fear and stress – some prayed, while others tried to stay calm for their families.
Videos show people caught in intense heat and heavy smoke, struggling with poor visibility and concern over falling trees or bursting tyres. Some said they were struggling to breathe while others decided to stop or turn around.
Conditions appeared hazardous even for firefighters. Conversations between drivers and passengers often reflected the complexity of the environment and a lack of certainty about what to do.
Some drivers could not make it through and were forced to escape.
Importantly, these flood and fire videos only represented those who managed to escape and survive.
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A video of people driving through fires in California, where the drivers are distressed and can hear tyres popping.
The best way to stay safe
In our analysis of these flood and fire videos, we found a recurring theme – surprise. People found themselves in a very different situation to the one they imagined when they began driving.
Driving on roads affected by floods and fires is risky, and the situation can escalate very quickly. Flash flooding is aptly named: torrential rain can trigger floods in just minutes. Bushfires, too, can intensify quickly
The clearest advice remains to avoid these situations altogether by evacuating early. But if you do find yourself in a vehicle on a fire-affected road, existing Country Fire Authority guidance can make a critical difference to survival.
Stop when it’s no longer safe to continue, park well off the road and away from vegetation if possible. Stay inside the car with windows and doors closed, turn off vents and air conditioning, get below window level and protect yourself from radiant heat using woollen blankets or clothing.
In floods, if rising water traps your vehicle, get out early and move to higher ground. As a last resort, climb onto the roof.
Ultimately, the safest option is to avoid hazardous driving wherever possible. Because once you’re on the road, it may already be too late.
According to the latest polling, the right-wing populist party, One Nation, is gaining significant political ground.
But the party has also made headlines for its controversial proposal to make new doctors complete a period of regional or rural service, in return for getting a Medicare provider number. This number is essential for accessing Medicare services such as bulk billing, where patients pay no out-of-pocket expenses for seeing a GP.
One Nation’s proposal is a blunt solution to a real problem. But could this policy actually work?
What exactly is One Nation proposing?
Earlier this week, One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce raised the idea of requiring doctors to work regionally before they can work in cities. If they don’t do a regional stint, they would essentially be blocked from practising under Medicare, Australia’s national health insurance scheme.
As a result, they would not have the option to bulk-bill or refer patients for pathology tests, such as biopsies and blood tests. This means patients can’t get rebates for seeing a doctor. For a ten-minute consultation which costs about $90, for example, the patient would not get the $43.90 rebate back.
At this stage, the proposal is short on detail. It’s unclear if it will apply to all medical graduates, and how long they will required to stay in a rural or regional location. But Joyce has suggested the length of service vary by remoteness. This would mean doctors who work in more remote locations would serve shorter terms.
So, could this policy work in practice?
Probably not. Australia has both a shortage of GPs and an unevenly distributed GP workforce. And a compulsory rural service policy does little to address either problem.
While the number of GPs in Australia has grown, particularly between 2018 and 2023, this growth has not kept pace with the demand for doctors. And the gap is even wider in rural areas.
A compulsory period of service might increase the number of newly qualified GPs in some rural communities. But research suggests they won’t stay long. Many forced service programs struggle to retain people after the service period ends. And even if existing doctors leave and are replaced by new ones forced to work in the country, this is a problem because local patients can’t benefit from continuity of care.
One American study tracked 240 international medical graduates who, because of their visa requirements, had to work rurally for three years. It found most relocated to urban areas within two years of fulfilling that visa requirement.
If you look at the distribution of our GP workforce, there is a clear pattern: GP numbers drop as remoteness increases. As a result, small rural towns have the fewest GPs relative to their population.
This matters because these communities are often too small to sustain a private general practice. And they are usually too far from larger regional centres for residents to easily access care.
Unfortunately, these are structural problems a coercive rural service policy are unlikely to fix. Instead, we should focus on programs which reward doctors for working in the regions.
One example is the Workforce Incentive Program (Doctor Stream). This program offers medical graduates an annual payment which increases according their year of service and level of remoteness.
Funding is also available for rural doctors seeking professional development. These include the Rural Procedural Grants Program and the Australian General Practice Program. As of 2026, the Australian General Practice Program has an additional 100 places dedicated to training rural GPs.
Are there any downsides to this policy?
Yes. Here are three.
First, this policy devalues regional communities. If we force doctors to go to rural communities, it reinforces the idea that rural places aren’t worth choosing. Medical schools already tend to frame metropolitan practice as the goal, and rural practice as the back-up plan. Forcing graduates into rural service may deepen that stigma. So instead of strengthening rural health care, this policy would discourage the long-term commitment rural communities actually need.
Second, it may increase medical costs for rural patients. Based on Joyce’s comments to date, doctors without a Medicare Provider Number will not be allowed to bulk-bill. This means they will charge fees, shifting the cost of health care to patients.
Third, this policy might discourage people from pursuing general practice altogether. Australia is already facing a GP shortage, which is only expected to get worse. For young medical students, a period of compulsory service scheme might become another barrier to pursuing a career in general practice.
One Nation’s proposal may sound straightforward. But without considering the details and potential risks, it may just exacerbate our current shortage of rural and regional GPs. So to find a solution, we may have to go back to the drawing board.