Category: Natural Disasters

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Universities – What New Zealand can learn from Japan on earthquake insurance – UoA

Source: University of Auckland – UoA

Rohan Havelock is investigating how New Zealand’s earthquake insurance stacks up against Japan’s

Shortly after Associate Professor Rohan Havelock arrived in Japan to study its earthquake insurance system, a 7.6-magnitude earthquake damaged nearly 4,000 homes and buildings in Aomori Prefecture.

For the University of Auckland insurance law specialist, it was a reminder of the value of an insurance system that works for homeowners.

New Zealand’s earthquake insurance combines private insurance with government-provided statutory cover. Statutory insurance, says Havelock, pays first, up to a set limit for residential buildings and land, and private insurance typically covers additional building damage only.

After the Canterbury earthquakes, more than 460,000 claims were lodged with the former Earthquake Commission, far exceeding its capacity. Slow claims processing, significant litigation, and the insolvency of two insurers followed. Some claims remained unresolved after a decade.

New Zealand’s subsequent reforms included the Natural Hazards Insurance Act 2023 and the Contracts of Insurance Act 2024, but the dual system continues and Havelock believes similar problems are likely to occur after the next big quake.

“There’s a need for more carefully considered reform, especially relating to standard terms, handling of claims and dispute resolution.”

What can New Zealand learn from Japan?

Havelock says New Zealand could follow Japan’s lead in three ways:
First, Japan’s earthquake premiums are priced to match risk: they’re based on a building’s location, age, construction and earthquake strength. In New Zealand, Natural Hazards Insurance is funded through a flat levy: 16c for every $100 of insured building value.

“This means that owners of more risky homes are subsidised by owners of less risky homes, and also that there’s no incentive to strengthen homes against earthquakes, or for owners to move away from earthquake-prone areas,” he says.

Second, Japan’s earthquake insurance is based not on quantifying actual loss, which can be resource-intensive and time-consuming, but on classifying loss into four types: total loss, large half loss, small half loss, or partial loss.

Settlement is invariably by payment (instead of the insurer undertaking repairs or reinstatement), which Havelock says means assessment and claims settlement is rapid and there are fewer disputes over what is necessary.

Third, he says Japan’s dispute resolution process is notably efficient and arguably more claimant friendly.

“Insurers routinely offer re-inspection or review of decisions, which resolves a large proportion of disputes.”

If disagreement continues, Havelock says the main pathway is through the ‘Financial Alternative Dispute Resolution’ system, involving an experienced mediator. This is non-adversarial and is free of filing or hearing fees, says Havelock. “Very few disputes proceed to litigation.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/universities-what-new-zealand-can-learn-from-japan-on-earthquake-insurance-uoa/

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What to pack in emergency ‘grab and go’ bags

Source: Radio New Zealand

When an earthquake, tsunami warning or flood strikes, you won’t have time to decide what to take.

National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) recommends a small bag for each person with essentials, such as sturdy walking shoes, warm clothes, raincoat and hat, water and snack food, hand sanitiser, portable phone charger, cash (small notes/coins), and copies of important documents and photo ID (printed or scanned to your phone).

Don’t forget any regular medications and special-diet items, first aid kit, mask/face covering, torch and battery/solar/wind-up radio (plus batteries) for outages. For people with disabilities, include items such as spare batteries for hearing-aids or pen and paper for sign language users.

This video is hosted on Youtube.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/what-to-pack-in-emergency-grab-and-go-bags/

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Storm News – Multi-day Severe Weather Event Continues – MetService

Source: MetService

Covering period of Monday 16th – Tuesday 17th of February

  • Heavy Rain Warnings and Strong Wind Warnings continue for the central and southern North Island and eastern South Island 
  • Heavy Swell Warnings in force for the southeastern coasts of the North Island.

A deluge of rain and relentless winds continue to impact a vast area across the central and eastern North Island and northeastern South Island today (Monday), with large waves affecting the southern and eastern coasts of the North Island. Eyes gradually turn towards the South Island through the day as the moisture-rich low tracks southwards. Heavy Rain is expected to continue through into Tuesday for the eastern South Island.  

What happened overnight Sunday (15th of Feb) into Monday (16th of Feb)?

The tables below show some rainfall accumulations and gust speeds from last night.

– Gisborne, Taupō, Waiouru, Wellington, Whanganui and Kaikōura have already exceeded the amount of rainfall they would typically expect to receive in February.  
– Baring Head Wave Buoy in Wellington Harbour recorded a Significant Wave Height of 7.54 metres at 11:06 pm (Sun). Note, Significant Wave Height is the average height of the highest one-third of waves.
– Mt Kaukau and Wellington Airport measured their strongest winds since June 2013 when they reached 202 km/h and 143 km/h respectively.
– The Kelburn weather station recorded its strongest winds from a southerly direction since June 2013 when a southerly wind of 141 km/h was measured.

What is expected over the next 24 hours?

Heavy Rain and Strong Winds are expected to ease in the central North Island through this (Monday) afternoon and the lower North Island and northeastern South Island this evening. The focus of Heavy Rain moves southwards and is forecast to continue to affect the Canterbury Plains and Banks Peninsula, as well as Dunedin into Tuesday and Warnings and Watches are place.  

MetService meteorologist Alanna Burrows says, ‘Please stay alert and keep up to date with the latest warnings in your area at metservice.com/warnings as well as advice from the Civil Defence and other local agencies.’

For media enquiries or to arrange an interview with one of our meteorologists please call 04 4700 848 or email metcomms@metservice.com

Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:

This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!

Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:

When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!

Orange Warnings are about taking action:

When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.

Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action

Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.

Watches are about being alert:

When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
During a Watch: Stay alert

Outlooks are about looking ahead:

To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
Issued routinely once or twice a day
Recommendation: Plan.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/storm-news-multi-day-severe-weather-event-continues-metservice/

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Onehunga shooting: Police seize firearm in ongoing investigation

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are continuing to make progress in investigating a shooting in Onehunga last month.

The Auckland City Organised Crime Unit has been investigating the incident on Arthur Street on 16 January 2026.

Detective Senior Sergeant Matt Bunce says the investigation team executed a search warrant at a Māngere property on Friday.

“Our detectives were supported by the Armed Offenders Squad, in which we have recovered a shotgun and ammunition,” he says.

“At this stage we are unable to confirm this firearm was involved in the original offending.”

Police have charged a 43-year-old man with unlawful possession of a firearm as well as unlawful possession of ammunition.

He appeared in the Auckland District Court over the weekend.

“We have no tolerance for blatant violence involving firearms in our community,” Detective Senior Sergeant Bunce says.

“The public will appreciate we can’t share the details of the work ongoing, however we have a dedicated investigative team that is working to hold those involved to account for what happened that day.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Bunce continues to call for any information to assist the ongoing investigation.

If you can assist, update Police online now or call 105 using the reference number 260116/9278.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS. 

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/16/onehunga-shooting-police-seize-firearm-in-ongoing-investigation/

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Live: Wild weather warnings issued across NZ, five districts in states of emergency

Source: Radio New Zealand

A fifth State of Emergency has been declared ahead of severe weather expected to strike tonight and overnight.

Manawatū District Council is the latest to make the declaration – in a post on social media, the council said it has activated its emergency response team and is closely monitoring river levels.

Heavy rain, rising rivers, slips, flooding, strong winds, and power outages are likely, the council said.

It advised people to take the declaration seriously and prepare now, while there is still daylight, make sure devices are charged and people have a battery-powered radio at the ready to listen to news updates.

The Rangitīkei, Tararua, Waipā and Ōtorohanga districts are also under states of emergency.

In a post on social media, Rangitīkei District Council said Mayor Andy Watson had made the declaration and the council had activated its emergency response team, and is closely monitoring river levels.

The council said it had also activated its process to close the Napier-Taihape Road.

It warned people to take the declaration seriously and prepare, while there is still daylight, including making sure devices are charged, and there was a battery-powered radio handy to listen to news updates.

An orange heavy rain warning has already been upgraded to a red warning – the highest level. The warning affects Manawatu, Rangatikei and Ruapehu Districts north of Feilding and east of State Highway One from 6pm tonight.

MetService said the heightened warning means there is a threat to life from dangerous river conditions and significant flooding and slips.

It says the weather conditions will isolate communities and make some roads impassable.

Several more weather warnings and watches have been issued for the east and lower North Island and the top of the South Island.

This latest burst of stormy weather comes as several regions reel from severe storms that have already closed roads, flooded properties and damaged infrastructure.

We’ll be bringing you the latest weather news updates in our live blog through the afternoon and evening.

RNZ/Marika Khabazi

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/live-wild-weather-warnings-issued-across-nz-five-districts-in-states-of-emergency/

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Aussie Tom Slingsby capitalises on Black Foils crash for New Zealand SailGP honours

Source: Radio New Zealand

Australia celebrate their New Zealand SailGP victory off auckland’s Wynyard Point. Getty Images

Despite defending his New Zealand SailGP crown off Auckland’s Wynyard Point, Aussie supremo Tom Slingsby harbours mixed feelings about how his team achieved their feat.

The three-time series champion had a front-row view of the horrible high-speed crash that sent New Zealand and France out of the regatta on Saturday, and admitted the Kiwis’ absence played a big part in the Flying Roos’ repeat success.

“Us winning in Auckland again, I’m not sure why, but it’s become a very happy hunting ground for us and it was very unfortunate the Kiwis weren’t there today,” Slingsby reflected. “We always want to compete against the best teams and the Kiwis, in those conditions, would have been our biggest rivals, I feel.

“Sad for them not being there, but we just focused on ourselves and we’re really happy to convert it into a win.”

Slingsby and Black Foils counterpart Peter Burling have developed a strong rivalry over their years on the professional sailing circuit, and the incident took its toll on the Aussies, as it did on the rest of the fleet.

“I happened to be looking right at it when it happened,” he said. “It was very scary.

“The Kiwis, as a team, we love to hate them, but individually, I love all of those guys. They’re just amazing people and, when a crash like that happens, I instantly think, ‘They’re all my friends and friends I’ve had for a long, long time’.

“When they called off the race, I was happy, because my mind definitely wasn’t on the game. We want the Kiwis out there and we don’t want to see anything like that ever.”

NZ grinder Louis Sinclair suffered compound fractures to both legs in the mayhem and underwent surgery on his right leg overnight. Slingsby messaged Burling to offer his support and hoped to see the Kiwis back on the water soon, although Sydney in two weeks seemed a stretch.

“They’re a champion team,” he said. “No-one knows timelines or when they’ll be back, but we know the day they come back, even if it’s not for championship wins this season, they’ll be out to win as much prize money and events as they can.”

NZ boat ‘Amokura’ was virtually destroyed, when it swerved into the path of the French, who flew over the bow and sliced it in two.

Some drivers questioned the sense of having 13 boats jockeying for position on such a small course in tricky wind conditions and organisers responded by introducing a split-fleet format for the first time on Sunday.

The fleet had experimented with smaller fields in practice, with the anticipated addition of a 14th team next year likely to force the change fulltime.

Slingsby had mixed feelings about the reduced format.

“The racer in me wants the full fleet there,” he said. “I just feel like the full fleet is why we do this – it’s lots of boats and lots happening.

Black Foils boat ‘Amokura’ is salvaged, after crashing with France on the Waitematā Harbour. Felix Diemer for SailGP

“At the same time, you’ve got to make changes, when something like that happens, whether it’s a permanent change or not. At least for today, I totally agree with the split fleet.

“We need to show we’re making changes here and not taking this accident lightly. With windy conditions today and a bigger forecast, I think it was the right call.”

While common sense prevailed, the diluted version felt like the SailGP equivalent of golden oldies scrums in rugby. Let’s just get out of Auckland with no further damage.

Racing was already brought forward to avoid the worst of the weather forecast and conditions changed dramatically again for the three-boat final, where speeds reached 100kmh and crews battled just to keep their boats upright.

Slingsby and his team now head home to Sydney, and he doubts two weeks will allow enough time for New Zealand or France to repair their boats.

“From my technical and structural knowledge of these boats, I think there’s no chance either of those boats are there,” he said.

“For sure you’re facing mental battles. We had a bit incident in Christchurch a couple of years ago and I remember, heading back out onto the racetrack, there were a few little scars there.

“As soon as they fire the gun, I was able to black it out and we got straight back into it.

“I know Peter Burling better than most people, and he will just get back in there and be ripping around the whole way.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/aussie-tom-slingsby-capitalises-on-black-foils-crash-for-new-zealand-sailgp-honours/

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Weather News – MetService Red Warning for Manawatu, Rangitikei and Ruapehu Districts

Source: MetService

Covering period of Sunday 15 – Monday 16 February 2026 – At 2:36pm MetService escalated the Severe Weather Warnings in Manawatu, Rangitikei and Ruapehu Districts north of Feilding and east of State Highway One to a Red Warning for Heavy Rain, in consultation with the Horizons Regional Council.    

All MetService Warnings have the potential for impacts, but Red Warnings are reserved for the most extreme weather events where significant impact and disruption are expected.

The escalation to a Red Warning comes as a deep area of low pressure sinks southwards across the eastern coast of the North Island, feeding heavy rain into the region, accompanied by strong gusty winds.

The heaviest rain is forecast for overnight tonight, Sunday, into Monday with the Red Severe Weather Warning running from 6pm Sunday to 2pm Monday.

MetService meteorologist John Law says, “It will be a wet and windy night for many parts of the lower and eastern North Island tonight, with rain returning and persisting through the night. The rainfall around Taihape and the eastern areas of Manawatu is of particular concern, bringing a threat to life from dangerous river conditions, significant flooding, slips and disrupting travel.”

“A Red Warning signifies that people need to act now as immediate action is required to protect people, animals and property from the impact of the weather. People should also be prepared to follow the advice of official authorities and emergency services.”

This is the second Red Warning MetService has issued this year, and it’s the 21st Red Warning weather event since the highest alert level was introduced back in May 2019.

Severe Weather Warnings and Watches also cover much of the eastern and lower North Island both for Heavy Rain and Strong Winds. With strengthening winds forecast though the night, Strong Wind Warnings for severe gales extend from the Cook Strait coast right up the eastern coast with a high chance that the warnings in Hawke’s Bay, eastern Taihape, the Tararua District and Wairarapa could be upgraded to a Red Warning. The strong winds will also be generating rough seas and large waves around the southern and eastern coasts of the North Island.  
 
As the weather system sinks southwards wind and rain will reach down to the top of the South Island, where some Severe Weather Warnings and Watches are also in place.  
 
Keep up to date with weather and warnings via metservice.com or our free MetService weather app.  

MetService also now provides push notifications for Severe Weather Warnings via our app.  More information can be found here about enabling them. 

Understanding MetService Severe Weather Warning System

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings (Localised Red Warning) – take cover now:

This warning is a red warning for a localised area.
When extremely severe weather is occurring or will do within the hour.
Severe thunderstorms have the ability to have significant impacts for an area indicated in the warning.
In the event of a Severe Thunderstorm Red Warning: Act now!

Red Warnings are about taking immediate action:

When extremely severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Issued when an event is expected to be among the worst that we get – it will have significant impact and it is possible that a lot of people will be affected
In the event of a Red Warning: Act now!

Orange Warnings are about taking action:

When severe weather is imminent or is occurring
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather
In the event of an Orange Warning: Take action.

Thunderstorm Watch means thunderstorms are possible, be alert and consider action

Show the area that thunderstorms are most likely to occur during the validity period.
Although thunderstorms are often localised, the whole area is on watch as it is difficult to know exactly where the severe thunderstorm will occur within the mapped area.
During a thunderstorm Watch: Stay alert and take action if necessary.

Watches are about being alert:

When severe weather is possible, but not sufficiently imminent or certain for a warning to be issued
Typically issued 1 – 3 days in advance of potential severe weather.
During a Watch: Stay alert

Outlooks are about looking ahead:

To provide advanced information on possible future Watches and/or Warnings
Issued routinely once or twice a day
Recommendation: Plan.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/weather-news-metservice-red-warning-for-manawatu-rangitikei-and-ruapehu-districts/

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Politics – Seymour’s calls for small government lazy politics straight from hard-right playbook – ignores NZ’s growing challenges – PSA

Source: PSA

ACT Leader David Seymour’s latest attack on the public sector is straight out of the hard-right playbook – slash and burn now, worry about the consequences later.
“We’ve seen this movie before Iin the 1980s and 90s and we know how it ends – with worse services for New Zealanders and the country less able to deal with the challenges we face,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“The last thing New Zealand needs is more ideologically driven re-structuring designed to meet some arbitrary numerical target and bugger the impact on what really matters – the future of our country and the health and well-being of New Zealanders.
“This is lazy politics from David Seymour and an attempt to distract from the failure of the Government to address the high cost of living facing New Zealanders.
“Seymour wants to cut agencies at exactly the wrong time. New Zealand’s population is growing rapidly and aging. We face a massive infrastructure deficit. Climate change is here right now, as recent severe storms even this week show.
“On top of that, we have our unique bicultural obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, severe homelessness and high unemployment, and being an isolated island nation dependent on biosecurity – these challenges are complex and require more capability, not less, they need specialist agencies.
“Now is the time to be investing in the public services here to support New Zealand, not make more damaging cuts.
“The sad irony is that every time there’s a crisis – whether it’s Pike River, the Christchurch earthquakes, or the 15 March mosque attacks – the Royal Commissions consistently recommend more resources and clearer accountability, not fewer agencies.
“What Seymour dismisses as ‘vanity portfolios’ are often responses to specific community needs and advocacy. The Cancer Control Agency exists because cancer advocates fought for years for independent national leadership. Agencies serving women, Pacific peoples, and ethnic communities exist because these groups were historically underserved by government.
“Seymour claims reducing agencies will magically boost productivity and wages. That’s fantasy economics. Countries with strong public services – like Norway, which he name checks – invest heavily in their public sector and pay their workers well.
“ACT’s ideological belief in a minimal state will leave ordinary Kiwis to fend for themselves while the wealthy like Seymour’s landlord mates get tax cuts.
“The truth is New Zealand needs a capable, well-resourced public service to tackle the challenges ahead. Seymour’s slash-and-burn approach would leave us weaker, less prepared, and less able to protect New Zealanders when they need it most.
“Voters will have a clear choice this election – and the PSA will be saying loud and clear that ACT wants to sacrifice our future all for a deeply flawed ideology.”
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/politics-seymours-calls-for-small-government-lazy-politics-straight-from-hard-right-playbook-ignores-nzs-growing-challenges-psa/

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Adolescence writer Jack Thorne on his new TV adaptation of castaway novel Lord of the Flies

Source: Radio New Zealand

Adolescence writer Jack Thorne hopes the UK will follow Australia in introducing a social media ban for children under 16.

“I think it’s amazing that Australia is ahead of the world in terms of the social media ban,” Thorne says.

“It’s hopefully going to spread like wildfire through the world, because I think it’s an incredibly important thing.”

Lord of the Flies and Adolescence were written and filmed at the same time.

Stan

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/adolescence-writer-jack-thorne-on-his-new-tv-adaptation-of-castaway-novel-lord-of-the-flies/

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Rain, high winds to move south after floods hit Waikato

Source: Radio New Zealand

It seems there is little reprieve on the weather front for the North Island, with rain and high winds set to move southwards.

The South Waikato region took a particular beating from thunderstorms overnight, with roads, homes and infrastructure damaged.

Pictures and stories coming out of Ōtorohanga tell of the extent of the flooding and hasty evacuations, after a deluge overnight caused waters to rise rapidly in the Waikato district.

The Ōtorohanga district was put into a State of Emergency in the early hours of Saturday. Houses and buildings have been surrounded by floodwaters and cars have been submerged. About 80 people were evacuated from a camping site, marae and at least two houses overnight.

Ōtorohanga mayor Rodney Dow has spoken of his sadness after a man was found dead in a submerged car at Puketotara on State Highway 39, and urged those affected to be careful and to stay safe.

Flooding has closed State Highway Three between Te Awamutu and Otorohanga, State Highway 39 – Pirongia to Otorohanga, and State Highway 31 – Kawhia to Tihiroa.

Flooding in Ōtorohanga, captured by drone from the air, on Saturday. RNZ/ Marika Khabazi

In other areas, Tairawhiti escaped some of the worst rain overnight but State Highway Two, the Waioweka Gorge between the Gisborne and Opotiki – and State Highway 35 between Taurangakoau Bridge and Te Araroa remain closed because of previous slips and flooding.

Phillips Avenue, Ōtorohanga. RNZ/ Marika Khabazi

MetService says widespread rain continues in Hawke’s Bay and Gisborne.

“A significant low deepens east of the North Island on Sunday bringing heavy rain and severe gales to the east and south of the North Island, northeast South Island and Chatham Islands. Large waves and dangerous sea conditions are also expected.”

An orange heavy rain warning is in place for parts of Gisborne, Hawke’s bay and Inland Whanganui until Monday morning.

Parts of Wellington and Gisborne are also under an orange strong wind warning until Monday and a heavy rain watch is in place for Eastern hills and ranges of Marlborough and Canterbury.

The Transport Agency is warning windy and wet weather is on the way for the lower North Island.

It says with bad weather is due to strike on Sunday, with severe gale south to southwestlies reaching 120 kilometres an hour in exposed places from tomorrow night.

People in the area have been warned to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.

Forecasters are calling for people to stay up to date on weather updates, as more wild weather has stamped orange and red weather warnings across much of the North Island, and some of the South Island, with heavy rain and strong wind warnings and watches for many places for Saturday and Sunday.

David and Joy Wickham were evacuated from a campervan camping site after water from the nearby river began to rise. They returned to find it underwater today. Supplied/ Joy Wickham

Follow how the events of Saturday unfolded:

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/15/rain-high-winds-to-move-south-after-floods-hit-waikato/?doing_wp_cron=1771067674.6373789310455322265625

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Man dies after car submerged in floodwaters in Waikato

Source: Radio New Zealand

A man has died after his car was submerged in floodwaters on State Highway 39. Screenshot/Google Maps

A man has died after his vehicle became submerged in floodwaters while travelling on State Highway 39 at Puketotara on Friday night.

A member of the public alerted emergency services at about 9.15pm.

The car was submerged near the intersection of State Highway 39 and Kiwi Road at Puketotara, and the man was found deceased inside the vehicle, police said.

State Highway 39 remains closed.

Motorists have been warned to drive with extreme caution and not attempt to drive through flooded roads.

A number of local roads and highways are shut across the district, including:

  • State Highway 39, between Otorohanga and Pirongia
  • State Highway 3 between Mangaorongo Road and Ngahape Road.
  • Kiokio Station Road at Otorohanga.
  • Phillips Road at Otorohanga.

A local State of Emergency has been declared for Ōtorohanga.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/14/man-dies-after-car-submerged-in-floodwaters-in-waikato/

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Ōtorohanga resident describes dramatic rescue from floodwaters

Source: Radio New Zealand

Flooding on Kio Kio Station Road, where residents were evacuated overnight. Supplied / Colin Payne

An Ōtorohanga resident has described his dramatic and unexpected rescue in the early hours of Saturday morning, after he awoke to find himself waist-deep in floodwater.

A state of emergency was declared in the district at 1am.

Kio Kio Station Road resident Colin Payne said waters close to three metres high had come through his property overnight.

The octogenarian had woken at about 4:30am to find his bedroom sodden.

“That had come in at, well, when I went to bed about 10 last night, it wasn’t even up to my barn, but it must have come up over the last four hours, four to five hours after that,” he said.

“I have an American barn and then attached to the American barn is a cottage and that is another metre higher than the American barn. So the actual increase in the water from the road to the top is approximately two-and-a-half to three metres.”

Payne called a neighbour and found out other residents on the rural road had woken to similar circumstances.

“Well, I must admit I was floundering for a few minutes until I found a torch because the power was off, and I then rang one of my neighbours and she thought I was away, so she hadn’t done anything, genuinely. And then I found out that they’d been rescuing people for a good hour or so.”

Like many of his neighbours, he was rescued soon after, using a boat that had been brought from Rotorua, and wading barefoot through water.

“They had to come around the front of my property and we had to remove a very large polythene screen so that we could get in and they brought the boat right onto the deck and then two or three of them helped me into it.”

Flooding on Kio Kio Station Road, where residents were evacuated overnight. Supplied / Colin Payne

The only thing Payne managed to take with him was his medication – everything else in his home is likely a write-off, he said.

“Totally and utterly devastated. It was more than wet. There was two big fridges, freezers rather, just floating. My TVs are all floating and the annoying part about it is I couldn’t reach it, but as I opened the door, my wallet floated past with all my credit cards and my driver’s licence and everything in it. So I hope the cops will be understanding if I get pulled up for a ticket.”

That was unlikely, as his large campervan had been “totally submerged”.

Kio Kio Station Road was about 3-4 kilometres long and had a number of lifestyle properties dotted along it, Payne said, estimating about 250 people would have needed rescuing.

“I would say some of them have even been worse than my place, and believe me, I’m pretty bad at my place, but I would say everybody else has suffered as badly as what I have,” he said.

“There’s little wee babies that have been hugging into their mums, there’s four families with young children right next door to me, and they’ve all been rescued. And I’ve spoken to quite a few of the others up and down and everybody’s feeling the same as what I am, you know, pretty devastated by what’s occurred. And you know, it is devastating and you can’t do a damn thing about it.”

Flooding on Kio Kio Station Road, where residents were evacuated overnight. Supplied / Colin Payne

Meanwhile, the deluge of rain continues.

“The thunder and lightning is still occurring, but the rain is, it’s very, very heavy and I don’t think we’re going to see any let up for two or three hours, maybe even longer. But yes, it’s torrential rain and it’s just about continuous torrential rain.”

Payne is no stranger to flooding, having been a jet boat rescuer himself in the 60s and 70s, and he commended those working overnight.

But now that the shock was wearing off, the last few hours were beginning to take a toll.

He was also concerned about his pet goat, Sophie.

“My greatest concern is for my dear little goat, Sophie. I just hope that Sophie has managed to get herself elevated somehow… most of the locals around my way know Sophie. In fact, quite a few of the locals come up and feed Sophie. She loves silverbeet, but I don’t think she’ll be getting any silverbeet today.”

Campers evacuated

A group of campers were evacuated from a campground amid the flooding, slips and heavy rain in Ōtorohanga overnight.

Joy Wickham told RNZ she was with a group of NZ Motor Home Association members who parked for the night at Ōtorohanga College on Friday.

The school is next to a river, and the waters rose up and into the school grounds, prompting the evacuation, Wickham said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/14/otorohanga-resident-describes-dramatic-rescue-from-floodwaters/

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Police urge caution on roads following heavy rain

Source: New Zealand Police

Motorists in the Waikato are being warned to drive with extreme caution and not attempt to drive through flooded roads.

A number of local roads and highways are shut across the district, including:

  • State Highway 39, between Otorohanga and Pirongia.
  • State Highway 3 between Mangaorongo Road and Ngahape Road.
  • Kiokio Station Road at Otorohanga.
  • Phillips Road at Otorohanga.

If you must travel, please slow down and be prepared for surface flooding or obstructions on road. Anyone travelling should check NZTA’s Journey Planner website for the latest highway conditions, and local council Facebook pages.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/14/police-urge-caution-on-roads-following-heavy-rain/

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Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life in prison

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fifty-one people were killed in two attacks on mosques in Christchurch in 2019. RNZ / Nathan Mckinnon

The Christchurch terrorist made almost 700 complaints about life behind bars but his claims of torturous prison conditions are exaggerated, a court has heard.

Australian white supremacist Brenton Tarrant made the 686 complaints from 16 March 2019 until September 2024, amounting to more than one complaint every three days.

The 35-year-old is serving a life sentence without parole for the 2019 shootings at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre but now wants the Court of Appeal to overturn his convictions and sentence.

The terrorist claims he was “forced” to plead guilty to 92 charges because he was irrational as a result of torturous and inhumane prison conditions.

The white supremacist left 51 people dead or dying in little over 15 minutes after taking an arsenal of semi-automatic rifles, shotguns and incendiary devices to the mosques as worshippers marked Jumu’ah – the most significant prayer of the Muslim week – and opening fire.

The terrorist initially pleaded not guilty in June 2019 to 51 counts of murder, 40 of attempted murder and one of committing terrorism.

The court has heard he wavered in late July 2019 and prepared to plead guilty before again changing his mind only days later.

In March 2020 he formally pleaded guilty to all charges and was jailed for life without the possibility of parole in August 2020.

The terrorist had 20 working days to file an appeal against his conviction or sentence but the “out of time” application came years later.

Crown solicitor Andrea Ewing told the court only four of the terrorist’s 686 complaints related to accessing a lawyer.

She said the terrorist had claimed a complaint was upheld in relation to some kind of physical incident.

“So what we have is a hearsay assertion from Mr Tarrant to his expert that a complaint was upheld,” she said.

The Crown called on the court to dismiss the terrorist’s application for leave to appeal.

Crown solicitor Madeleine Laracy said there was no possible risk of a miscarriage because the terrorist had no legal defence to offer a trial and conviction was certain.

She also called on the court to provide finality for his victims, New Zealand’s Muslim community and the wider public.

“There are literally hundreds of directly harmed victims in this case and keeping this case alive is source of immense distress for those individuals,” Laracy said.

The terrorist’s lawyers reiterated the conditions their client was confined in were unlike anything else present in the prison system.

Justices Christine French, Susan Thomas and David Collins reserved their decision.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/christchurch-terrorist-made-almost-700-complaints-about-life-in-prison/

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AECOM and CityUHK School of Energy and Environment forge strategic partnership to accelerate Hong Kong’s sustainability and climate resilience goals

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2026 – AECOM, the trusted global infrastructure leader, and the School of Energy and Environment (SEE) at City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK), a leading hub in sustainability, today announced a strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration is dedicated to accelerating Hong Kong’s progress towards its sustainability and climate resilience ambitions by integrating cutting-edge academic research with proven industry expertise.

Officiated by Ir Dr Otto Poon, founding chairman of the Hong Kong Climate Change Forum, the signing ceremony formalized a partnership that will drive joint research projects in sustainability, climate adaptation and environmental innovations. A key initiative will be the exploration of a dedicated AECOM–SEE joint laboratory to advance climate-related research. The collaboration will also encompass knowledge exchange, innovation and solution development, capacity building programs, student internships, and joint academic supervision, strengthening the bridge between industry and academia-related research.

“This strategic partnership with CityUHK SEE is a catalyst for transformative solutions addressing critical environmental challenges,” said Dr Johnny Cheuk, senior vice president and Hong Kong Executive Leader at AECOM. “By uniting CityUHK’s renowned research capabilities with our industry-leading technical excellence in sustainable infrastructure and on-the-ground experience, including integrated shoreline management, flood management and nature-based solutions, we can fast-track the development of resilient, future-ready solutions for Hong Kong.”

“Collaborating with AECOM is not just a partnership, it’s a commitment to shaping a sustainable future together with industry leaders on various initiatives, all aimed at translating research into real-world impact,” said Prof. Benjamin Horton, Dean of the School of Energy and Environment at CityUHK. “Partnerships between academia and industry are essential for accelerating innovation, scaling solutions and building resilience. Universities bring together diverse fields under one roof, making them ideal hubs for innovation and collaboration. We are excited to work closely with the industry partners, including AECOM, to foster scalable solutions for global sustainability.”

Following the MoU signing, AECOM and CityUHK SEE co‑hosted a Climate Change Symposium, facilitating in-depth dialogue between academia, industry and the government. The symposium featured expert discussions on coastal resilience, sustainable water management and climate risk disclosure, highlighting pathways to address Hong Kong’s specific environmental challenges.

Key insights were provided by distinguished speakers representing government, academia, and industry, including:

  • Government and real estate sector: Chan Wai Tak, Principal Assistant Secretary (Works), Development Bureau, HKSAR Government; Prof. Wong Kam Sing, GBS, JP, Chairman of Wu Zhi Qiao (Bridge to China) Charitable Foundation; and Hazel Cheng, Project Manager for Sustainability, Henderson Land Development Co., Ltd.
  • CityUHK SEE: Prof. Benjamin Horton, Dean; Prof. Jung Eun Chu, Assistant Professor; Prof. Ping Han, Associate Professor
  • AECOM: Robert Chan, Vice President, Water, Asia; Stanley Liu, Executive Director, Ports & Marine, Transportation; Delton Ng, Executive Director, Environment

The symposium underscored a shared commitment to advancing Hong Kong’s climate goals through academic-industry collaboration, driving climate resilient innovation from the laboratory to the community.

Hashtag: #AECOM #CityUHK #ClimateResilience #IndustryAcademiaPartnership #SustainableLegacies

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/aecom-and-cityuhk-school-of-energy-and-environment-forge-strategic-partnership-to-accelerate-hong-kongs-sustainability-and-climate-resilience-goals/

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NZ property profits hold steady as length of ownership hits longest on record – Cotality

Source: Cotality

New Zealand’s property owners are holding onto their properties for the longest period since records began, as the trend of declining profit and more frequent losses for vendors stabilises.

Cotality NZ’s Pain and Gain Report for Q4 2025 shows 88.1% of residential properties resold for more than their original purchase price in the December quarter, broadly in line with 88.0% in Q3.
While the figure is still well below the peak of more than 99% recorded in late 2021, the latest result marks an end to three consecutive quarterly declines for profit-making resales.
Cotality NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said the figures suggest the market has entered a trough, which is consistent with how wider property values nationally have performed in recent months.
“Resale performance is still soft compared with the boom years, but the data suggests the downward drift has slowed and flatlined, and conditions are broadly holding steady,” Mr Davidson said.
“Property values have flattened out in recent months, and that stability is now flowing through to resale data. This has been a gradual downwards drift in resale performance since early 2022 rather than a slump, and almost nine out of 10 sellers are still making a profit when they trade.”
The national median resale gain in Q4 was $298,000, down from the late-2021 peak of $440,000 but still higher than anything seen prior to 2021. The median resale loss was $55,000, only slightly higher than in the September quarter.
As always, it’s worth keeping in mind that these gains, at least for owner occupiers, aren’t necessarily cash windfalls if they simply have to use all of that fresh equity for their next property purchase.
Hold periods hit highest level on record
Properties resold for a gain in Q4 had been held for a median of 10.1 years, the longest period recorded in the series dating back to the mid-1990s.
By contrast, homes resold at a loss had typically been owned for 3.9 years, which Mr Davidson noted placed many purchases close to the country’s most recent market peak.
“We haven’t seen a significant jump in the historical time ranges, but this hold period surpasses the previous high of 9.4 years, which was only set in the September quarter last year,” he said.
“This highlights the weakness of property values that has persisted since late 2021, which may be prompting some owners to hold longer as they look to maximise their capital growth. In other cases, it may reflect a quieter market and sellers are having to wait longer for a sale.”
Houses outperform apartments
Standalone houses continued to record a lower frequency of resale losses than apartments in Q4, with house resale performance broadly steady over the quarter.
Apartments remained more exposed to loss-making resales, reflecting smaller long-term capital gains and greater sensitivity to recent market conditions. Even so, Mr Davidson said there is little evidence of widespread distressed or forced selling.
“Apartments tend to feel market downturns more acutely, but the data does not point to sellers under pressure or fire sales occurring,” Mr Davidson said.
“The gap largely reflects long-run differences in performance rather than any sudden deterioration in demand for property types.”
Main centres show tentative improvement
Several main centres recorded small improvements in resale outcomes over the December quarter, helping underpin the national stabilisation.
Auckland continued to have the highest share of loss-making resales among the main centres at 17.4%, although this was down from Q3. Wellington and Tauranga also recorded modest easing, while Dunedin saw the sharpest quarterly improvement.
Christchurch remained the most resilient of the main centres, with 5.3% of resales made at a loss in Q4.
“We’d probably need another quarter or two of flatter results before calling a genuine turning point, but there are already tentative hints that resellers are starting to fare a little better in the main centres,” he said.
Outlook stable, not spectacular
New Zealand’s economic outlook, early signs of rising sales volumes and a tentative easing in listings may begin to support house price growth in 2026.
Mr Davidson said lower mortgage rates are likely to provide some support, particularly as housing market conditions become more settled.
“Lower interest rates should help underpin demand, but any lift in prices is likely to be gradual rather than a sharp rebound,” Mr Davidson said.
He cautioned that several more months of consistent sales activity would be needed before the downturn could be considered over.
“Conditions are improving at the margin, we’re seeing this in some of the main centres, and a stabilisation in value declines, but the data suggests we’re entering a period of stability rather than a boom” he said.

Notes:

The Pain and Gain Report analyses homes resold during the quarter, comparing the most recent sale price to the previous sale price to determine whether the result was a gross profit (gain) or gross loss (pain).

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/nz-property-profits-hold-steady-as-length-of-ownership-hits-longest-on-record-cotality/

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Nowhere to go: Police response rounds up offenders

Source: New Zealand Police

A Police operation in Pukekohe quickly rounded up several persons of interest in recent aggravated robbery investigations.

The situation unfolded on Thursday afternoon with Police resource flooding into the township, resulting in three sought offenders being arrested.

Detective Inspector Karen Bright, from Counties Manukau CIB, says an off-duty officer located a group near the Michael Hill jewellery store.

One of the group was sought in connection with an aggravated robbery at a Napier Michael Hill store on 3 February, and a Papatoetoe bar on 10 February.

“The group were acting suspiciously near the chain’s Pukekohe store before leaving in a vehicle,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

“Upon realising the risk that a further robbery may be imminent additional Police resource was deployed into the township; on the ground and in the air.

“Our staff were highly visible and there was nowhere this group could go.”

Meanwhile, the National Retail Investigation Support Unit notified Michael Hill whose stores implemented additional security measures.

Prevention patrols were also initiated across the Auckland region at other locations.

  • Police strike:

A breakthrough moment came when a unit sighted the vehicle of interest on Manukau Road.

With the Eagle helicopter also overhead, Police had eyes in many locations.

“Despite the vehicle being abandoned on a side road, our frontline staff quickly deployed into the area,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

“A short time later, a suspicious activity report came in where a group of young people were seen changing their clothes at a nearby high school.

“Units were soon on scene stopping two young people, while Eagle observed two other males trying to walk away from the area.”

They were no match for frontline staff who quickly gave chase on foot on Harris Street, with both males giving up and being arrested.

  • Charges laid:

Detective Inspector Bright says with people in custody, the Counties Manukau Major Crime Team worked into the night to lay appropriate charges.

– A 17-year-old male has been charged with two counts of aggravated robbery, for the Napier and Papatoetoe incidents, as well as four counts of unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.

– A 15-year-old male has also been charged with aggravated robbery over the Papatoetoe incident on 10 February.

– Another 17-year-old male has been charged with aggravated robbery over an incident at a Takanini vape store on 23 January. He also faces several charges relating to vehicle crime.

“This is an outstanding result by every single staff member involved in responding on Thursday,” Detective Inspector Bright says.

“Between a highly visible Police response and partnerships with retailers, we have prevented further offending from taking place.

“These young people are now all before the Manukau Youth Court.”

ENDS. 

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/nowhere-to-go-police-response-rounds-up-offenders/

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Moa Point sewage spill raises bird strike fear at Wellington Airport

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington Airport is taking safety measures for planes following the Moa Point failure. RNZ / Rebekah Parsons-King

Wellington Airport says it has noticed increased bird activity near its runway this week, and it is taking safety measures for planes following the Moa Point failure.

The sewage plant melted down last week, flooding the building with waste and sending raw sewage into the nearby south coast.

Nearby beaches remained off limits due to tens of millions of litres of screened but untreated sewage flowing out the plant’s 1.8-kilometre outfall pipe each day.

Wellington Airport’s location is very close to Moa Point.

With the risk of bird strike for aircraft in mind, its head of operations, Matthew Palliser, told RNZ they were monitoring the animals.

“We are keeping a close eye on bird activity around the airport and have noticed some increased activity at times this week, but we are always prepared for this.”

Palliser said the airport had regular patrols checking the runway and that they worked closely with the Airways control tower.

“When required, we use a range of tools to scare birds off, including different noises.

“We also have a full-time Wildlife Officer who monitors bird activity.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/moa-point-sewage-spill-raises-bird-strike-fear-at-wellington-airport/

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Football: Injured All Whites star Chris Wood gets ‘positive news’

Source: Radio New Zealand

All Whites captain Chris Wood is on the comeback from injury. PHOTOSPORT

All Whites captain Chris Wood’s road to recovery from a knee injury has taken many routes, but the striker has had positive news as he looks ahead to the path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Wood suffered the injury in mid-October while playing in the English Premier League for Nottingham Forest and had surgery in December.

While he has been sidelined, Wood has watched Forest slip towards the relegation zone and fire a third manager this season.

“The easiest thing to say would be it’s part and parcel of football, but it’s been frustrating,” Wood said of his recovery in an interview recorded by Nottingham Forest.

“The manner of the injury has not been perfect because we’ve tried different things, had setbacks, having to go down different routes with surgery and things like that. It’s not been smooth sailing.”

Wood said by “suffering through the lows” of this season it would help him “come back stronger and better”.

“It’s getting better day by day, which is great. Had some positive news yesterday from the surgeon to say I can get on to the next stages and things like that, so it’s better for my rehab now.

“I’ve got to do the right things to get back fit and ready.”

The 34-year-old said he was looking forward to returning to play before the end of the Premier League in May and the World Cup, which kicks off in June.

“There is a lot on the horizon which will be fantastic to be a part of, and the World Cup is definitely one of them.”

He will miss the All Whites’ FIFA Series in Auckland next month.

The All Whites’ last warm-up game before the World Cup is against England.

“Coming up against England will be a great occasion, a tough opponent for us… we’ve always wanted to pit ourselves against the best and England is definitely one of the best and one of the favourites for the World Cup, so it will be a good experience, for sure.”

Wood was recognised with The New Zealand Society’s inaugural Pride of New Zealand award in London last week.

Aware of the influence he had on the next generation of football players in Aotearoa, Wood said he wanted to be an inspiration.

“We’ve had a lot of Kiwis playing across the world at great levels but we’ve only ever had six ever play in the Premier League, and that’s something you’ve got to be extremely proud [of].

“We want more Kiwis playing in the Premier League or playing at high levels around the world, and we’ve got quite a lot who do it, but hopefully there can be a lot more coming after seeing what can be achieved with Kiwis around the world.”

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/football-injured-all-whites-star-chris-wood-gets-positive-news/

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Northcote’s new community hub gets underway

Source: Auckland Council

Northcote is rapidly transforming – and with nearly 890 new homes already completed, another 300 under construction and more planned, improved community facilities are essential. To support this growing neighbourhood and create better spaces for people to connect, a new multi-purpose community hub will begin next month on the site of the existing library.

A new community hub for a growing community

The new facility will bring together the library and key community services  Hearts & Minds, North Art, Citizens Advice Bureau, and Plunket – into one modern, flexible space.

Kate Cumberpatch, Priority Location Direction, at the Auckland Urban Development Office, says, “The heritage-listed library building will be upgraded and complemented by a new contemporary wing, offering shared spaces, community rooms for hire and an enlarged front plaza. It’s going to be a modern vibrant, welcoming space for the community to come together and enjoy.”

“At the back, a covered veranda will connect to the neighbouring Puāwai Cadness Reserve, which is also being upgraded, to create a seamless indoor-outdoor experience for visitors.”

A revitalised Puāwai Cadness Reserve

When finished, the reserve will offer new recreational spaces and improved amenities. Kate says, “We’re excited for the community to be getting an improved community hub and a dramatically enhanced reserve. A new basketball court, a large lawn area with a pavilion, children’s play spaces, toilets, and generous new planting will create a more attractive usable and greener environment.”

Improving stormwater and building resilience

Stormwater management will also be significantly upgraded. Kate says, “The new hub, reserve upgrade and final section of Te Ara Awataha, Northcote’s new greenway, will improve drainage to further mitigate the long-standing flooding issues in the area, while delivering valuable environmental, community and health benefits.”

Temporary Library and Services During Construction

To prepare for construction, Northcote Library will close from Monday 16 February and reopen on Monday 2 March 2026 at a temporary hub at 1 Ernie Mays Street. Hearts & Minds, NorthArt, Citizens Advice Bureau, and Plunket will be there too until the new hub and reserve opens at the end of 2027.

Despite the smaller footprint, library services and operating hours will remain the same and car parking will continue to be available on the corner of Ernie Mays Street and College Road. Northcote Library Manager Lucia Mataia says, “We’ll prioritise our most popular and interesting items on shelves. And thanks to our free request and collection service, customers will still have full access to the entire Auckland Libraries network.”

Part of Northcote’s wider 10-year transformation

The new community hub is a key milestone in Auckland Council’s major long-term redevelopment of Northcote’s town centre. Over the next few years, community facilities will be upgraded, followed by the staged modernisation of the shopping precinct.

Ernie Mays Street will be extended from 2027 to become the new main street, and there will be a larger supermarket, new shops and eateries, offices, homes, car parking, and a new town square – creating a vibrant heart for the local community.

Find out more on the AUDO website.

The Auckland Urban Development Office leads Auckland Council’s urban transformation projects – working with mana whenua, developers, and the community to create vibrant, future-ready neighbourhoods.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/02/13/northcotes-new-community-hub-gets-underway/