Category: New Zealand

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Winter Paralympics: Kiwi Corey Peters finishes fifth in last event at Milano Cortina

Source: Radio New Zealand

Corey Peters in action at the 2026 Winter Paralympics in Italy. © Photosport 2026 Jeff Crowe / Photosport

New Zealand’s Corey Peters has finished the Winter Paralympic with a fifth placing in the men’s giant slalom sitting, while compatriot Adam Hall has finished 22nd in the giant slalom standing.

Peters’ effort has left him without a medal at the Milano Cortina Games, but with three top-six finishes.

In conditions he described as challenging, after the slushy snow had salt added, Peters produced two clean runs, posting a combined time of 2m 18.12s in an event that saw only 19 of 37 athletes finish.

Peters, 42, had a tidy first run and held the early lead, after another good run in the second, but his time was overtaken by later skiers.

Italian world champion Rene de Silvestro won the event, with Dutchman Niels de Langen second and defending champion Jesper Pedersen of Norway third.

“I’m pretty happy, considering giant slalom isn’t my favoured event, but stoked to get down, and get another finish under my belt and another top five,” Peters said. “It was challenging conditions out there, so just to survive it was special.”

Peters, who won gold in the downhill sitting event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Paralympics, finished fifth in the downhill sitting and sixth in the Super-G sitting over the past week.

He has four Paralympics medals from past Games.

“For me to come away without a medal [here] is a little disappointing, but that’s sport.

“We can’t change the results now and it is going to take some slightly better skiing next time in order to get on the podium.”

Hall – like Peters, Wānaka-based – was competing in the giant slalom standing for the first time at a Winter Paralympics, since his debut at Torino 2006.

He had two clean runs in the event, which was a forerunner for his favoured slalom standing, scheduled overnight Sunday/Monday NZT.

“Doing this event was never about pushing for a podium, but to gain an insight and intel for what may lie ahead on Sunday in the slalom,” Hall said.

“Today was all about getting my head around the conditions and blowing away the cobwebs, before going all guns blazing in the slalom.”

Frenchman Arthur Bauchet was a dominant winner of Hall’s event.

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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/2026/03/14/winter-paralympics-kiwi-corey-peters-finishes-fifth-in-last-event-at-milano-cortina/

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New Zealander Nathan Teraki jailed in Australia over fatal crash while drugged avoids deportation

Source: Radio New Zealand

FIle photo. 123RF

A New Zealand-born man, serving time in an Australian prison for killing a person when he drove while drugged, has won a fight to remain in his adopted country.

Nathan Brian Teraki was jailed for seven years in September 2024 after pleading guilty in the Brisbane District Court to the dangerous operation of a vehicle causing death while affected by an intoxicating substance.

He was said to be fatigued and taking “poor man’s meth” tablets when he killed a mine worker in the head-on collision.

His dashcam recorded him veering into the opposite lane nine times as he drove for another hour and 27 minutes before colliding head-on with a Toyota Hilux driven by Northern Territory man Leslie Noel Huxham.

At the time, Teraki tested positive for amphetamine, methamphetamine and the active ingredient of cannabis.

He faced a looming deportation order, but has succeeded in having it overturned, after Australian immigration authorities agreed to cancel an application to revoke his visa.

Teraki claimed he had become so stressed about events in his life, and after the tragedy in October 2022, he began self-harming by “pulling out his teeth”.

Deportation loomed after fatal crash

The process to cancel Teraki’s special category (temporary) visa began soon after he was convicted and sentenced.

Despite his appeal, authorities decided last December to continue down the path of cancelling the visa, because the Minister for Immigration and Citizenship was not satisfied that Teraki passed the character test.

But in a decision released this month, the Administrative Review Tribunal of Australia found that, after weighing all the evidence, factors in favour of reversing the decision to cancel his visa outweighed the alternative.

The tribunal said that while Teraki’s criminal conduct was “very serious”, as highlighted by the fact he killed an innocent person, his conduct in Australia otherwise was not, in the nature of systemic criminal activities, over an extended period of time.

Instead, his conviction arose when driving to work in circumstances where he was affected by drugs and should not have been driving.

While there was evidence of different criminal conduct from 2001 until 2003, when Teraki was living in New Zealand, there was no suggestion, let alone evidence that such conduct had been repeated in Australia, senior tribunal member Mark Harrowell said.

His record in New Zealand included common assault, possession of cannabis and utensils, burglary and breach of a community work order.

Teraki claimed he could not recall the assault charge or what had occurred.

‘Nothing in NZ to return to’

The 44-year-old was born in New Zealand and arrived in Australia in September 2010 with his then-wife and two children.

Their third child was born after they arrived in Australia. The pair later separated.

Teraki had since faced a domestic violence order imposed by police in 2023, effective until August 2028, which contained a good behaviour condition.

Teraki, whose mother lived in New Zealand, said in his original revocation application he had not been back for eight years since there was nothing for him to return to.

“This is my first and only charge I have had and is really out of character for me,” he wrote.

Teraki wrote that he had been independent since an early age, and had lived with his grandmother during his teens.

He described his relationship with his mother as “good” and that they talked, and that she had offered him a place to stay with her.

However, he feared “returning to old habits” if sent back to New Zealand, and separation from his children, who were a “massive” part of his life.

He claimed to have been working too hard to hide his depression from his children since the death of his father in 2017, when he ought to have sought help instead.

A medical specialist’s report pre-sentencing described Teraki having a “major depressive disorder” which was both chronic and severe.

The court also noted his “chronic cannabis dependence”, alcohol abuse and “some symptomology consistent with post-traumatic stress disorder” and a previous history of methyl amphetamine use.

The PTSD was said to be partly related to Teraki’s early family history.

Working three jobs

Teraki said he was working three jobs at the time of the fatal crash, to help pay the mortgage and support his family.

He started taking drugs to sleep and to be awake for work, and had taken them before driving to work on the morning of the crash.

He claimed to have started “pulling his teeth out”, because of everything that had happened, but was now getting help.

“I want my kids to look up to me, not down at me,” he wrote.

Teraki said since being in prison he had become completely drug-free, had stopped taking medication and “felt the best” he ever had.

He said he had “awesome support” from family and upon release he aimed to work full-time as a builder.

“I have to live with what happened that day and always will. But have changed my thinking and look at life,” Teraki wrote.

The tribunal concluded that it was not in dispute that Teraki failed the character test; the issue in the proceedings was whether there was another good reason why the cancellation of the visa should be revoked.

It considered his risk of re-offending as low, and his family ties and social links in Australia were “significant”, which all weighed in favour of reversing the decision to cancel his visa.

– This story originally appeared in the New Zealand Herald.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/new-zealander-nathan-teraki-jailed-in-australia-over-fatal-crash-while-drugged-avoids-deportation/

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Live: Fijian Drua v Brumbies – Super Rugby Pacific

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow all the Super Rugby Pacific action as the Fijian Drua take on the Brumbies at 4R Stadium in Ba.

Kickoff is at 4.35pm.

Team lists

Drua head coach Glen Jackson has named a strong line-up led by captain Frank Lomani, and featuring hometown favourites Joji Nasova and Isoa Tuwai.

Jackson has kept a consistent tight five, retaining the front-row trio of Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama and Mesake Doge, and the locking duo of Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila.

Winger Ponipate Loganimaso returns to the team, following his recovery from an injury, but there is no place for former French international Virimi Vakatawa.

Super Rugby Pacific leaders Brumbies are heading to Ba with their first loss behind them, after they were beaten by the Reds at home last weekend.

Fijian heritage player Rob Valetini has been named in the starting line-up for his 100th Super Rugby game for the club.

Fijian Drua: 1. Haereiti Hetet, 2. Zuriel Togiatama, 3. Mesake Doge, 4. Mesake Vocevoce, 5. Isoa Nasilasila, 6. Etonia Waqa, 7. Motikiai Murray, 8. Elia Canakaivata, 9. Frank Lomani (captain), 10. Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, 11. Ponipate Loganimasi, 12. Isikeli Rabitu, 13. Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, 14. Joji Nasova, 15. Iliasia Droasese

Bench: 16. Sairusi Ravudi, 17. Emosi Tuqiri, 18. Peni Ravai, 19. Vilive Miramira, 20. Kitione Salawa, 21. Isoa Tuwai, 22. Isaak Fines-Leleiwasa, 23. Iosefo Namoce

Brumbies: 1. Lington Ieli, 2. Billy Pollard, 3. Darcy Breen, 4. Nick Frost, 5. Toby Macpherson, 6. Tuaina Taii Tualima, 7. Luke Reimer, 8. Rob Valetini, 9. Klayton Thorn, 10. Tane Edmed, 11. Kye Oates, 12. David Feliuai, 13. Kadin Pritchard, 14. Corey Toole, 15. Andy Muirhead (captain)

Bench: 16. Liam Bowrn, 17. Blake Schoupp, 18. Tevita Alatini, 19. Lachie Shaw, 20. Rory Scott, 21. Ryan Lonergan, 22. Declan Meredith, 23. Hudson Creighton

Isikeli Rabitu of Fijian Drua during the round two. Darrian Traynor

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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/2026/03/14/live-fijian-drua-v-brumbies-super-rugby-pacific/

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Whānau of Māori Battalion soldier hope film will see him receive Victoria Cross

Source: Radio New Zealand

L. Sgt. Haane Manahi DCM photographed by George Bull in 1943. George Bull

The whānau of a Māori Battalion soldier hope a new film about his exploits in Tunisia during the Second World War will see him finally receive the Victoria Cross.

L. Sgt. Haane Manahi DCM (Te Arawa, Ngāti Raukawa) joined B Company, 28th Māori Battalion shortly after the outbreak of the Second World War, he fought in Greece, Crete and North Africa. It was during the North African campaign in Tunisia that he confirmed his attributes as an outstanding leader and soldier.

According to his biography on Te Ara the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, he was in a platoon from the Māori Battalion that was ordered, in April 1943, to capture and secure the Takrouna feature – a steep, rocky outcrop rising almost a thousand feet above a group of olive groves.

It was occupied by 300 Italian and German troops, who were causing havoc to the advancing Allied army. The assignment was extremely dangerous and difficult due to heavy mortar and small arms fire, and by the morning after the initial attack on 20 April, Manahi’s platoon of around 30 men was reduced in strength to 10. Manahi then led a party of three men up the western side of the pinnacle.

In order to reach their objective they had to climb some 500 feet – the last 20 feet almost sheer. After a brief fight, some 60 enemy surrendered. Manahi and his party were then joined by the rest of the platoon and the pinnacle was secured.

Donna Morrison and Anaru Grant Jr. Supplied

Dr Donna Morrison is a producer of the new film and one of Haane Manahi’s nieces.

“Having the opportunity to travel with a small group to Takrouna in 2007, it really heightens an understanding when you see the citadel that is Takrouna. It has a 360 viewpoint of any approaching enemy. It is a magnificent landscape feature that really humbles you when you look at it because it is such an outstanding feature of the Tunisian landscape,” she told Māpuna.

Morrison said only two weeks prior to Manahi’s deeds of valour fellow Māori Battalion soldier Te Moananui-a-Kiwa Ngārimu was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery, determination and outstanding leadership.

Following the battle at Takrouna, Manahi was recommended for a Victoria Cross, but was instead awarded a Distinguished Conduct Medal.

“Most pivotal and critical in this is that on the final night, Uncle Haane himself personally oversaw the bringing down of the wounded and the dead. It just tells me so much about Uncle Haane, the man. And that in itself is deserved of VC consideration,” she said.

Growing up Morrison never knew of that aspect of “Uncle Haane,” she remembers instead staying at his batch at Maketu and as her swimming coach a “hard taskmaster.”

During his lifetime Manahi did not want the VC reinstated, but once he passed in 1986 Sir Charles Bennett worked towards it on behalf of all of Te Arawa, she said.

“[Uncle Haane] didn’t want to fuss and bother. He thought everyone who went away deserved the VC. That was the man that he was.”

Although official policy did not allow for review of Second World War honours, in October 2006 Buckingham Palace agreed to present a personal letter from Queen Elizabeth II recognising his gallantry, a ceremonial sword and an altar cloth for St Faith’s Church, Ōhinemutu.

Morrison believes there is still merit in His Majesty King Charles restoring the VC to Manahi.

“The goal, albeit audacious, is something that I believe that King Charles may want to at least review.

“Perhaps the film will help to speed that process up. But I believe it is achievable with the right people, the right resources, at the right time.”

The film Sgt. Haane releases nationwide in theatres on April 23. Morrison encouraged whānau of soldiers to bring photographs of their own to the theatre as a joint commemorative opportunity.

Sgt. Haane is directed by Tearepa Kahi (Muru, Poi E: The Story of Our Song, Mt. Zion) with Alex Tarrant (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, NCIS: Hawaiʻi, DMV) as Haane Manahi.

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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/2026/03/14/whanau-of-maori-battalion-soldier-hope-film-will-see-him-receive-victoria-cross/

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Greyhound Racing New Zealand calls for clarity ahead of ban

Source: Radio New Zealand

Greyhound Racing New Zealand is disappointed the committee made the recommendation. 123RF

The greyhound racing industry is calling for clarity on its transition plan, as the looming ban on the sector gets closer.

A legislation shutting down the sport by August passed its first reading late last year.

A select committee has released its report and recommends proceeding but suggested allowing TAB to continue taking bets on overseas races after domestic racing ends.

Greyhound Racing New Zealand is disappointed the committee made the recommendation.

Chief executive Edward Rennell said people were still in the dark and there was a lot of work left to be done with over 1000 greyhounds to be rehomed.

“We’re only four and a half months out now and there’s a tremendous lot of work and there’s a lot of uncertainty in terms of how things are going to work from 1 August and further clarity is required for our industry participants.”

“At 31 July we’re projecting there’s still going to be 1600 greyhounds to be rehomed.”

Rennell said the select committee’s outcome was not what they had hoped for.

“We felt the greyhound industry and the people that submitted clearly outlined why we didn’t believe there were grounds for closure and the tremendous progress the industry has made form a welfare perspective.”

“We were hoping after consideration of the submissions that the select committee would have reviewed the decision.”

ACT MPs have voiced strong objections to the ban, saying breeders, owners and venues deserve better treatment.

ACT MP Cameron Luxton had previously said the government should “at the very least” set up a compensation scheme.

“We’ve listened to a community that’s been misunderstood by Wellington. They’re getting a raw deal. Their property rights have been disregarded, and someone needs to stick up for them.”

In a previous statement, Racing Minister Winston Peters had said everybody had had the opportunity to have their say through the select committee process.

“This decision was not taken lightly,” he said.

“However, it was considered that the rates of dogs being seriously injured remained too high and the improvements made were not significant enough.”

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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/2026/03/14/greyhound-racing-new-zealand-calls-for-clarity-ahead-of-ban/

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Benefit rules confuse: Employed partner given job search obligations

Source: Radio New Zealand

Unsplash / Anu Priya

A man who was made redundant last year has been left perplexed when his employed partner was told she would need to attend a seminar on gaining employment.

Andy, whom RNZ has agreed not to identify, lost his job last June.

“As I’ve been paying my taxes I thought I would see if I would be eligible for the unemployment benefit, which I wasn’t at that time because my de facto partner of 28 years had full time employment as a chef which she has held for 14 years, fair point so it was left there.”

There are limits on how much a household can earn and still remain eligible for benefits. When someone is on JobSeeker, household income over $160 a week before tax affects eligibility.

But Andy said four months later, her hours had been cut to four days.

“So I wait four weeks, so I can offer four payslips as proof and apply again.”

He said he applied online for his own benefit, and attended an interview.

But then his partner was called in and asked the same questions, despite not seeking a benefit.

“After two hours we’re sent away to await ‘our applications to be processed’ then I get a phone call to confirm that both our applications have been accepted but because my spouse has part-time work, her benefit is classified as her main income – all $51.20 of it – her wage will be classified as her second income and taxed accordingly. She’s employed, she doesn’t want any benefit, it was my application.

“On top of that, because she is now classed as unemployed she also has to attend a seminar about what benefits she’s entitled to claim and advice on gaining employment. But, she’s very happily employed.”

He said it had created a situation where there was an extra benefit application, and she was being forced to take time off work to attend a seminar about getting work.

“We’ve actually cancelled my application because my spouse doesn’t want to be contacted by anyone regarding other employment, who knows how her current employer would react if they thought that she was looking for work. Would they believe us?”

Rena Hona, regional commissioner for the Ministry of Social Development in Northland, acknowledged it was a difficult time for the couple.

“We’re happy to help Andy with his search for employment in any way we can, and we encourage him to remain in contact with us.

“We have a wide range of support available to help people find jobs and employers across the region regularly let us know about new vacancies.”

Hona said Andy’s partner’s 24 hours a week did not meet the minimum standard for full-time employment.

“This means she would need to take reasonable steps to secure employment of at least 30 hours a week if she and Andy applied for Jobseeker Support payments as a couple.”

Hona said Andy’s partner had been told she would not be required to attend a seminar and could have a one-on-one interview instead.

“New Zealand’s social security system is built on the premise that people in a relationship share costs and support each other financially. This is why applying for Jobseeker Support works differently, and the payment rates may differ, if someone is single or in a relationship.

“If someone in a relationship applies for assistance their partner also needs to give us some information. We’re required by legislation to assess both partners’ employment status and their combined household income. We then use this information to determine what they may be eligible for and what their obligations might be. These obligations could include looking for a full-time job and keeping us updated about how that goes.”

When someone was working 30 hours a week, they would not have job search obligations.

“If people need financial assistance because they’re not working full-time, we expect them to take all reasonable steps to confirm suitable full-time employment as soon as possible, so they no longer need financial assistance. This is a longstanding principle which underpins New Zealand social security legislation.”

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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/2026/03/14/benefit-rules-confuse-employed-partner-given-job-search-obligations/

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Country Life: Pick and be merry – harvest time under a big sky

Source: Radio New Zealand

Harvest time at Big Sky Wines begins or ends with friends and neighbours in the vineyard helping to bring in the first grapes of the season.

Husband-and-wife team Kath Jacobs and Jeremy Corban started out 21 years ago, growing mainly Pinot Noir on six hectares in Te Muna Valley near Martinborough, and were both the viticulturalists and winemakers at their certified organic vineyard.

They did most things by hand, and in mid-March, under a shockingly blue sky in 26-degree heat, a clutch of neighbours and friends were lending theirs, snipping the first grape bunches from the vines.

Jeremy Corban and Katherine Jacobs harvesting grapes in their vineyard. RNZ/Sally Round

“I like this kind of ending one chapter and starting the next chapter,” Corban said.

“This is the end of the grape growing and the start of the wine making, so it’s a nice point. I like seeing the fruit come in. That’s six months work, maybe longer, and it’s just gorgeous on days like this. You know, it’s no hardship, is it?”

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The couple were among 90 percent of New Zealand’s 700-plus winegrowers classified as ‘small’ – producing under 200,000 litres a year. With their own winery on site, they produced about 20,000 litres, although that varied from year to year.

Jacobs described it as a classic family-run operation.

“We try and do all the work ourselves. We’re organic. We’re living on our property. Our children grew up here.

“We love the fact that it’s really simple and compact, and we pick as much fruit in a day as we can, Jeremy and I can, process, so we’ve got a lot of friends who’ve been involved with us since the beginning.”

The pickers were treated to a nice lunch at the end – “A celebration of the time of year,” Corban said.

“We like to either do the first pick of the season or the last pick of the season with that, with friends.”

The bins of grapes are loaded into a large field container before being transported to the winery for chilling, then a light press RNZ/Sally Round

Kate Smith was one of the stalwarts with about 20 years of picking under her belt.

“I’ve known Katherine and Jeremy for a long time. We came to New Zealand in 2005 and they’d just bought the vineyard. We’ve been helping them with the harvest almost every year since. We’re just friends, amateurs who come for a fun day and and it’s just a lovely day.

“There’s usually a good team of people here. And, you know, I always meet people that I haven’t seen before, and we have a nice chat as we go along with vines. You know, there’s a nice communal feeling. We will sit down and have a lunch together at some point.”

Kate Smith, one of the picking team at Big Sky Wines. She’s been helping with the harvest since the wine label’s beginnings 20 years ago. RNZ/Sally Round

The group were picking early harvest pinot noir, with the fruit at lower sugar and higher acid levels, for sparkling wine.

“We really like the human factor of people looking at each bunch, it’s really important,” Jacobs said.

“We’re making the best wine we can, not the most wine we can. So we really appreciate people’s actual eyeballs on the bunches.”

A small group of friends and neighbours have joined in the first pick of the season. RNZ/Sally Round

The buckets went into bins which a neighbour picked up and loaded on the back of the tractor. It rumbles slowly down the rows to the larger field bin at the end, where the morning’s harvest was collected, ready for the winery.

The fruit would be chilled down to 10 degrees overnight then lightly pressed in the morning.

“It’s quite a physical, manual process,” Corban said.

“You get good at lifting 15 kilos a lot of times, thousands of times. It also gives us another chance to make sure there’s nothing going into the mix that we don’t want.”

With a good amount in the bin, it was time for a break and the group headed off for scones, a cold drink and a chat.

“We don’t do all our harvesting like that, but it’s a nice way … at the end of the day, this whole business is about conviviality.”

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LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/country-life-pick-and-be-merry-harvest-time-under-a-big-sky/

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Country Life: The Shepherdess Muster heads to Southland

Source: Radio New Zealand

Shepherdess founder Kristy McGregor. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

With a seven, five, and one-year-old at home, and another baby on the way, life can be quite chaotic for Shepherdess founder Kristy McGregor. Living rurally on a beef and dairy farm in Horowhenua adds another layer.

It was that and a desire to connect rural women and provide a sense of community that saw her launch the Shepherdess Muster – a rural women’s retreat – first in the remote settlement of Motu in Tai Rāwhiti two years ago and most recently in Tokanui at the bottom of the South Island.

“The Muster is about just taking time for yourself and doing something for yourself,” she told Country Life.

“What you get when you come here is just a chance to have a go, have good food, have food cooked for you. When did you last get a meal made for you?”

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The Tokanui Rugby Club was transformed into a rural women’s retreat for the second Shepherdess Muster, the first in the South Island. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

The weekend included a wide range of workshops centred on everything from women’s health, empowerment, intimacy and relationships, and parenting. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

As McGregor explained, the Muster was a chance for rural women to choose for themselves.

“The Shepherdess Muster is three days of women coming together in a rural or remote spot and a weekend of arts, health and well-being and entrepreneurship, business development. Really just spending time together and connecting and taking a moment for yourself.”

The first event to be held in the South Island, the Muster attracted more than 200 women from around the motu to the Tokanui Rugby Club for a weekend of camping, fun and celebrating International Women’s Day.

While there was a wide range of activities on offer – everything from women’s health check-ups, intimacy workshops, beauty appointments, tattooing, Zumba, yoga and craft sessions – none were compulsory.

Tokanui farmer, mum of 4 and Shepherdess organising committee member Emma-Kate Rabbidge. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Tokanui locals Emma-Kate Rabbidge and Julie Keast were both excited to showcase their slice of paradise after nearly two years of planning as part of the event’s organising committee.

For Keast, who lived a few kilometres away from the rugby club, it was about women coming together for themselves.

“It’s really important that we hold that place for each other, and support each other and have a good time together,” she told Country Life.

Rabbidge, who lived even closer to the grounds with her husband and four children, found it odd camping in a tent down the hill over her own bed.

“But like I’ve said to a few women, you know, as soon as you walk back in the door to your home, you’re the wife and you’re the mum and you’re all the things again.

“This weekend is really about stepping away from that and taking the time out. So, yeah, I’m staying away.”

She hoped that attendees might walk away with a reignited passion for being creative or picking up a new hobby, something they could incorporate into their life back home which could help them build connection and community.

Tokanui local Sheila Smith of the Small Prophet Design Shed. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

The weekend was a great way to showcase local makers and businesses. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Sophie Green and Louise Patterson enjoy checking out the craft stall. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

For “Welsh import” Sheila Smith, who also called Tokanui home and helped start the Small Prophet Design Shed, moving to the remote Catlins was an adjustment at first.

“It was a big move from central London. That was a challenge to adjust to the slower pace – one garage, one school, one shop, and one superb design store, Small Profit Design.”

She and two other women who ran the store travelled all through Wanaka, Queenstown, and Otago doing interiors and art and furniture. She said they were passionate about promoting New Zealand-made goods and doing things themselves.

It allowed her to be more than “a farmer’s wife” and provide an outlet for her creative background. Like many rural women she wore many hats – at the Muster over the weekend Smith could also be found leading the Zumba dance sessions and early morning workouts.

She said despite some of the challenges of moving to the “end of the world”, it was one that had taught her a lot and a “good move”.

She was reminded of this the week before, during a recent burst of aurora – she could see the southern lights from her farm, Aurora Downs.

Dr Helen Paterson with the Women’s Health Bus. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Dancers dress to the theme of sparkles and sequins, enjoying the live band. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Many of the rural women spoken to by Country Life over the weekend spoke of their gratitude to live, and for some, raise their families, in beautiful parts of the country where there was space to play and potter.

But many also spoke of the time pressures and constant juggle which made it challenging to always appreciate this.

Southland sharemilker Allesha Ballard-Conway came to the Muster alone, hopeful she would make new friends and enjoy “some crafts, good food, good vibes” while trying something new.

Nearing the end of the weekend she said she had met women from all types of places doing different things and this would be her biggest takeaway from the experience.

“We literally just sat down and yarned. It was so lovely just to feel connected to women – just being inspired by all the women.”

Southland sharemilker Allesha Ballard-Conway was proud to have set up her campsite all on her own. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Louise Patterson and Sophie Green had an easier time than some setting up their inflatable tent. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

A paddock becomes a campground, with tents, trailers and all sorts of temporary accommodation. Gianina Schwanecke / Country Life

Learn more:

  • Find out more about the Shepherdess Muster, here
  • Find out more about RNZ’s new podcast Far From Town here

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/country-life-the-shepherdess-muster-heads-to-southland/

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Country Life: How line dancing found a home in the city

Source: Radio New Zealand

Dancers Caitlin Martin (left) and Tennille Arthur help the class stay on beat as Nigel Mooney (centre) announces the moves. RNZ/Anisha Satya

Line dancing was once a thumbs-in-belts, fringed boots affair, but it has found a second home in New Zealand’s cities in the last decade.

Linedance Christchurch co-founder Nigel Mooney had taught the style for 35 years after learning when he was a teenager.

Linedance Christchurch instructor Nigel Mooney steps dancers through a new routine. RNZ/Anisha Satya

American pilots would drop in to his parents’ country-styled bar in Christchurch in between their visits to Antarctica.

“Right when line dancing exploded in the US, these guys would be learning it at a bar, mid-week.

“They would fly out to New Zealand, come into [his parents’] bar, teach us.

“We saw it and thought, ‘that looks like a total joke, and would be good to do behind the bar for a laugh’.”

At 14-years-old, Mooney started teaching line dancing. In that first year, his class grew from 12 students to 300.

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The beginner classes today pack more than 100 attendees into the Westburn School hall.

Dancers learned 10 basic routines, getting a walk-through of the moves before the music went on and the party started.

Tennille Arthur’s favourite line dancing song was “Church” by T-Pain.

Dancer Tennille Arthur says line dancing is for all ages. RNZ/Anisha Satya

“It’s not one that we do, because not everyone can keep up.”

She had started dancing on stage to help guide newer dancers through the routines – as practice for running private classes, which were attracting growing interest in Christchurch.

“They want more [dancers] to be able to go to weddings and parties and hen’s dos and things.”

The rise of country and country-pop into mainstream music genres had played a role in the growth of line dancing. So had social media, where algorithms had exposed a wider audience to viral line dance routines.

Pitbull’s hit song “Fireball” slotted perfectly into Linedance Christchurch’s beginner track list, which also boasted Sabrina Carpenter and Elton John.

But most importantly for Mooney, there was an appetite in Christchurch for fun fitness.

“If people are sitting at home on the couch, getting chubby, trying to work out, ‘how do I get fit?’, I’m not going to go to a gym.

“It’s too hard to run round the block, our weather isn’t conducive to evening or morning walks, but line dancing … I can give people an hour of gentle, easy exercise that just sneaks up on you.

“You’re laughing, you’re breaking a sweat, having some fun.”

You can wear whatever footwear you like for line dancing these days – though some stick to the traditional boots. RNZ/Anisha Satya

Learn more:

  • Learn more about Linedance Christchurch here.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/country-life-how-line-dancing-found-a-home-in-the-city/

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NZ-AU: The Middle East: Impact of the U.S.–Israel War on Iran and Challenges for U.S. Expats

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Dubai, UAE, March 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expat US Tax has released an analysis examining how recent geopolitical developments in the Middle East are affecting Americans living and traveling across the region. The review focuses on practical issues that U.S. expats may encounter, including travel disruptions, embassy advisories, and day-to-day logistical challenges as governments monitor security developments.

Impact of the U.S.–Israel War on Iran and Challenges for U.S. Expats

Over the past several weeks, tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran have led to heightened security alerts and precautionary measures across parts of the Middle East. Governments in several countries have issued travel advisories, increased security measures around infrastructure and transportation networks, and temporarily adjusted airspace access in response to regional developments.

These changes have had a direct impact on international travel. Airlines operating across the Middle East have modified flight routes or temporarily suspended certain services when airspace restrictions were introduced. In some cases, travelers have experienced delays or cancellations as airlines adjusted operations to maintain safe flight paths.

For Americans living in the region, these developments can affect routine activities such as business travel, family visits, or relocation plans. Large American expatriate communities reside in countries including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Israel, and Kuwait, where many work in sectors such as energy, aviation, finance, education, and international business.

Clark Stott, Director at Expat US Tax, said that events affecting regional transportation or embassy operations can have practical implications for Americans living abroad.

“Americans living overseas often manage international travel, cross-border employment, and family commitments in multiple countries,” Stott said. “When regional developments affect transportation or consular services, expatriates may need to adjust travel plans or monitor official government guidance more closely.”

Government agencies have encouraged citizens abroad to stay informed through official advisories and embassy updates. U.S. citizens living overseas may receive updates through embassy communications, travel advisories, and emergency notification systems designed to provide timely information during rapidly evolving situations.

Travel and Embassy Operations

One of the most immediate effects of regional instability is the adjustment of aviation routes and airport operations. Airlines may reroute flights to avoid restricted airspace, while airports can temporarily limit operations if security concerns arise. These changes may result in longer travel times or limited flight availability between international hubs.

Embassy services may also adjust operations during periods of heightened security awareness. While most diplomatic missions continue to provide routine consular services, embassies may issue additional guidance for citizens or temporarily modify staffing levels depending on local conditions.

For Americans abroad, embassy communication channels often serve as an important source of information. Citizens can receive updates regarding local developments, travel advisories, or recommended safety precautions.

Considerations for U.S. Expats

For expatriates living in the Middle East, the most common impacts tend to involve logistical and planning considerations rather than direct security concerns. Travel arrangements, visa timelines, and relocation plans can be affected when airlines modify schedules or when governments introduce temporary travel guidance.

Many expatriates also maintain connections across multiple countries, making regional mobility an important part of daily life. Business travelers, contractors, educators, and international employees may rely on regional flights between Gulf cities, Europe, and Asia. Changes in aviation routes or airport operations can therefore influence professional schedules and personal travel.

In these situations, experts generally recommend monitoring official government advisories and maintaining flexibility in travel planning. Staying informed through embassy updates and airline notifications can help expatriates respond to changing travel conditions.

U.S. Tax Considerations for Americans Abroad

In addition to travel logistics, Americans living overseas continue to manage ongoing financial and tax obligations in the United States. Unlike most countries, the United States taxes its citizens based on citizenship rather than residency. As a result, U.S. citizens living abroad generally remain required to file annual U.S. tax returns if their income exceeds certain thresholds.

For expatriates who move between countries or adjust employment arrangements due to regional developments, maintaining accurate financial records can be especially important. Changes in residency, employment contracts, or income sources may affect how certain tax provisions apply.

Clark Stott noted that geopolitical developments sometimes highlight the complexity of financial planning for Americans abroad.

“Even during periods of regional uncertainty, U.S. tax filing requirements continue to apply,” Stott said. “For expatriates who relocate, change employment, or move between countries, maintaining organized financial records and understanding filing obligations can help avoid compliance issues later.”

U.S. expats may also rely on provisions such as the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion and foreign tax credits, which are designed to help reduce double taxation for Americans working overseas.

Looking Ahead

While governments and international organizations continue to monitor developments across the Middle East, many analysts note that travel conditions and security advisories can evolve quickly during periods of geopolitical tension.

For Americans living abroad, access to accurate information and reliable guidance remains important. Monitoring embassy communications, staying informed about travel advisories, and maintaining awareness of administrative obligations can help expatriates navigate changing conditions while continuing their work and daily life overseas.

About Expat US Tax

Expat US Tax is an advisory firm that assists U.S. citizens living abroad with tax compliance, planning, and reporting obligations. The firm provides tax preparation and advisory services to Americans residing in more than 190 countries, helping expatriates navigate the complexities of U.S. citizenship-based taxation.

Press Inquiries

Clark Stott
info@expatustax.com
https://www.expatustax.com/

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/nz-au-the-middle-east-impact-of-the-u-s-israel-war-on-iran-and-challenges-for-u-s-expats/

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The caretaker: Chris Greenacre on his fourth go-round as Phoenix interim coach

Source: Radio New Zealand

Chris Greenacre during his current Wellington Phoenix head coach duties. AAP Image/Matt Turner / Photosport

Taking over a struggling team mid-season is one of football’s toughest gigs. Chris Greenacre has now done it four times for the Wellington Phoenix.

The club turned to the experienced coach again last month after Giancarlo Italiano’s abrupt departure adding another chapter to his extraordinary coaching journey.

Coaching was always Greenacre’s plan. Along with a handful of Tranmere Rovers team mates in England in the early 2000s he was part of the Professional Football Association’s pilot scheme of putting current players through their coaching badges. By the time he landed in New Zealand as a Phoenix player he had a UEFA B licence but no real outlet to use it.

Little did he know his first real head coaching job would be, what was at the time, New Zealand’s only professional team.

It is a position many coaches struggling in lower leagues could only dream of landing in their lap, but for Greenacre the unconventional rise was not always easy to navigate. He has yo-yoed between head coach and assistant roles, between the A-League team and the Reserves team in New Zealand domestic competitions.

The Englishman went from being a club legend on the field that hung up his boots somewhat prematurely in 2012 to just months later being head coach while Ricki Herbert was on international duty with the All Whites.

“If I’m really honest, I didn’t know anything, and that’s just the nature of the beast,” Greenacre said of the first time, 13 years ago, in a role he now has a level of familiarity with.

“I think in an ideal world, if you can come through the youth team ranks and develop like that, I think it’s really the best way forward.

“But unfortunately, or fortunately, my path was to go straight in at the top, which rarely happens.”

Chris Greenacre during a training session at Newtown Park in 2012. Photosport

However, being in the right place at the right time has been a theme during Greenacre’s 17 years with the Phoenix.

Whether it was scoring a crucial goal from centre-forward in one of his 84 A-League games or a timely transition to coaching.

Herbert had been the one to see Greenacre’s potential on and off the field.

Injured and frustrated with his lot at Tranmere Rovers, Greenacre arrived at the Phoenix in 2009 after a chance conversation with former Socceroo Gareth Edds.

Edds was on the radar of A-League clubs wanting to bring Aussies home and on the other side of the world Rovers players were paying attention to what the league was doing.

Despite not taking the field, due to injury, when Herbert and former Phoenix chief executive Tony Pinata visited England to check out their potential visa player, the bosses liked what they saw from the level that the Rovers were playing at and the wheels were in motion to get Greenacre from League One to the A-League.

Herbert then opened the door for the shift straight from player to assistant coach, a role that Greenacre could not turn down despite feeling like he could have played on.

Chris Greenacre celebrates scoring for the Phoenix in 2010. Dave Lintott/Photosport

“It was a bit of a risk, I think, because I’m a bit of an advocate for players to play as high as you can for as long as you can. I still say that to players now, if you can keep playing, keep playing, it’s the best place to be.

“Then coaching is probably the next best thing.

“I probably didn’t take my own advice, but felt that, hopefully, coaching was where I wanted the next part of my football journey to take me.”

Since then Greenacre has maximised his opportunities working as an assistant with four of the next five Phoenix coaches after Herbert.

Former Wellington Phoenix coach Ufuk Talay of Sydney FC greets interim coach Chris Greenacre of the Phoenix during the round 19 A-League Men match between Wellington Phoenix and Sydney FC this month. Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

He also filled in as an interim coach after Ernie Merrick, Darije Kalezic, Mark Rudan and Ufuk Talay.

He was not an assistant to Italiano – opting instead to go back to the Phoenix academy system for professional and personal reasons.

“It was me recognising that I need more hands-on on the grass, where I’m making the main decisions, and that’s what that allowed me to do over that period of time.

“Also my daughter was about six at the time, during the Covid time, so to not travel to Australia and to spend some time with my wife and daughter was crucial as well.

“On the back of that, I’d completed my pro licence and it was a way of me to be able to put into practice the knowledge and stuff that I needed on my coaching journey at that particular time.”

After two and a bit seasons in charge, Italiano left after a big loss to their northern rivals Auckland FC last month and Greenacre, who is head of the Phoenix academy’s pro development, once again got the call from management to fill the void.

The academy operates separately from the A-League team and Greenacre had no insight into what had gone on this season before his sudden arrival with the top team.

“You never really understand what’s going on internally when you’re on the outside, even though you’re a staff member at the club.

“You don’t know what the relationship is with players and the past coach, you just see a product like you see with the fans on the weekend, so you really have no detail around what’s going on. I think the key to it for me has been trying to get around as many people as I can who were directly involved in it, not involved in it, players, to try and get a real feel as quickly as possible of where you think you might be able to improve it, keep it, steady the ship.”

Taking over with only a small number games left in the season is more about continuance rather the stamping his own style.

“The players are conditioned in a certain way of training, and you may not always see eye-to-eye in that, but you’ve got to also understand that these players are conditioned in this moment, so changing behaviours is really, really difficult instantly, and that obviously takes time, but we don’t have time.”

As a coach, Greenacre wanted to be a balance between man manager and tactician.

“I think the way the game’s evolved, certainly man management’s a really big part of that. Generations have changed, and I think generations look at the world differently.

“I think as a coach, you have to evolve like that. If you remain stuck in, as they say, old-school ways, I think you’re getting left behind. It’s really important that you evolve with the generations that you’re coaching with.”

Nurturing relationships with star players as well as those who did not make it professionally was important to Greenacre in his work with the academy and Reserves team.

“I get really proud of being involved in some of the players that have gone on to do great things and get moves and play overseas.

“I’m as much proud of some of the guys that I’ve played who haven’t made it, who I know I’ve had a really good connection and relationship with, and you still get text messages and calls even now off players that didn’t quite make it, and they appreciate that what we were trying to do in terms of helping them develop as players.”

Being tactically up to speed was also important to the 48-year-old.

“I’m sure in the next few months, years, that my beliefs and how I see the game being played will evolve again.”

Chris Greenacre and Matthew Ridenton during training in 2021. Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz

Over time Greenacre had taken the “best attributes” of some coaches he had worked with and integrated them into his own approach to coaching.

“There’s obviously coaches that I haven’t enjoyed playing under, coaches that I’ve worked alongside where I’m kind of not really a fan of what they’re doing, and even if it’s the learning from, I probably wouldn’t do that because look how this has made me feel.

“There’s a lot of people that I’ve been really fortunate enough to and proud to have worked with, whether the relationships have been great or not so much.”

The way Greenacre believed he could finally turn the recurring interim role in a permanent position was by winning. The Phoenix have six games left in the season.

Before the end of the month the club is expected to name their next head coach.

“Results give you the best chance, and instant success, I suppose, probably gives you the best opportunity.”

Being a familiar face around NZCIS where the Phoenix are based could also finally give Greenacre an edge this time.

“I think, having been in an environment for a long time, people get to see actually how you work on a daily basis, and not necessarily when you’re under the spotlight of a first-team coach, so I suppose people get to see your mannerisms and things that you do and things they may like, things they don’t like.”

Greenacre’s reputation and ability to develop sought after talent through the academy to the first team who were then sold on to Europe could be another tick on the appointment check list for a club that valued being a stepping stone in player’s careers.

“Ultimately, the powers that be make the decision, and if it’s yes, it’s great, if it’s not, it’s not, and we kind of move on, and that’s just how professional sport works.

“I do have aspirations to coach at the highest level. If that happens, great. If it doesn’t, it’s a similar role to playing. I didn’t quite make it to the Premier League, but I aspired to be there.

“Am I happy that I made a living out of the game as a player at the level I did? A hundred percent. I’ve been proud to say that I made a living out of the game.”

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/the-caretaker-chris-greenacre-on-his-fourth-go-round-as-phoenix-interim-coach/

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NZ-AU: Innovative Aluminium And Glass Expands Custom Aluminium Window and Door Installation Services in Sydney

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Villawood, NSW, March 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

Innovative Aluminium And Glass announces the expansion of its custom fabrication and installation services for aluminium windows and doors across the Sydney metropolitan area.

Based in Villawood, the company manufactures and supplies a variety of glass and aluminium solutions for residential and commercial properties. All products are built to meet the technical standards of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), the Australian Glass and Window Association (AGWA), and the Master Builders Association guidelines during on-site installation work to maintain structural integrity and safety. The company’s recent expansion highlights its commitment to helping home and business owners elevate the aesthetics of their spaces with stress-free window and door installations.

“All the products are created as per your needs and we guarantee customer satisfaction each time,” said Joe Ghaddar, owner of Innovative Aluminium And Glass. “This is achieved by following the HIA, AGWA, and Master Builders Association standards.”

From residential installations to large-scale commercial projects, Innovative Aluminium And Glass provides end-to-end manufacturing and fitting services. Key advantages include:

Custom Door Configurations

The company builds modern aluminium bifold doors, French doors, and sliding systems tailored to specific wall openings. These units use heavy-duty tracks and hardware to support large glass panels, creating wide openings for indoor-outdoor transitions in residential homes.

Specialised Window Styles

Installations include energy-efficient aluminium windows available in double-hung, louvre, awning, and sliding configurations. Each frame undergoes precision cutting and assembly at the Villawood facility to ensure airtight seals against wind and rain, improving building performance.

Commercial Glass Solutions

The team installs commercial aluminium windows and doors for retail storefronts, office buildings, and industrial facilities across Sydney, using reinforced frames and specialized glass to withstand high traffic volumes while meeting local building safety codes and requirements.

Double Glazing Options

Catering to both residential and commercial clients in both the Sydney and Canberra regions, the company supplies a reliable range of dual-pane glass units for both windows and doors to increase thermal insulation and reduce external noise levels inside the property.

Sliding System Engineering

Innovative Aluminium And Glass offers a selection of frames in multiple powder-coated finishes, allowing property owners to match the hardware to their existing architectural color schemes. The precision-engineered aluminium sliding door systems feature smooth-gliding rollers and secure locking mechanisms for ease of use and property protection.

Direct Manufacturing Model

By manufacturing products in-house, the company controls the entire production cycle from raw material selection to the final installation. This direct manufacturing model enables Innovative Aluminium And Glass to offer custom sizing for non-standard openings and ensures oversight of frame durability and glass quality.

Innovative Aluminium And Glass invites property owners to visit its website to request a free quote for window and door services today.

About Innovative Aluminium And Glass

Innovative Aluminium And Glass is a window and door specialist based in Villawood, NSW. The company serves the Sydney metropolitan area by providing custom-built frames for various property types. From initial design and manufacturing to final on-site fitting, Innovative Aluminium And Glass manages the full lifecycle of product development to ensure all installations meet local safety requirements and client specifications.

More Information

To learn more about Innovative Aluminium And Glass and the expansion of its aluminium window and door solutions in Sydney, please visit the website at https://aluminiumwindowsanddoors.net.au/.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: What is the new expansion from Innovative Aluminium And Glass in Sydney?

A: Innovative Aluminium And Glass has announced the expansion of its custom fabrication and installation services for aluminium windows and doors across the Sydney metropolitan area. This expansion focuses on providing end-to-end manufacturing for residential and commercial projects, including specialized bifold doors, sliding systems, and energy-efficient window configurations produced at their Villawood facility.

Q2: Who is Innovative Aluminium And Glass and what are their credentials?

A: Innovative Aluminium And Glass is a premier window and door specialist based in Villawood, NSW, serving the Sydney and Canberra regions. Under the leadership of owner Joe Ghaddar, the company manufactures products that meet the rigorous technical standards of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), the Australian Glass and Window Association (AGWA), and the Master Builders Association.

Q3: What custom aluminium and glass products does the company offer?

A: The company provides a wide range of custom-built solutions including modern aluminium bifold doors, French doors, and precision-engineered sliding systems. Their window lineup features double-hung, louvre, awning, and sliding styles, with specialized double glazing options available to improve thermal insulation and reduce external noise levels for both homes and businesses.

Q4: How does Innovative Aluminium And Glass handle commercial and residential installations?

A: The company utilizes a direct manufacturing model to manage the full product lifecycle from raw material selection to final on-site fitting. For residential clients, they focus on indoor-outdoor transitions and aesthetic hardware, while commercial services include reinforced frames and specialized glass for high-traffic retail storefronts and office buildings that must meet local safety codes.

Q5: How can I get a quote for aluminium window or door installation in Sydney?

A: Property owners can request a free, no-obligation quote by visiting the official website at aluminiumwindowsanddoors.net.au or by calling 1800 679 661. Innovative Aluminium And Glass provides custom sizing for non-standard openings and manages the entire design and installation process to ensure customer satisfaction and structural integrity.

https://thenewsfront.com/innovative-aluminium-and-glass-expands-custom-aluminium-window-and-door-installation-services-in-sydney/

– Published by The MIL Network

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/nz-au-innovative-aluminium-and-glass-expands-custom-aluminium-window-and-door-installation-services-in-sydney/

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International migration: January 2026 – Stats NZ information release

 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/international-migration-january-2026-stats-nz-information-release/

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International travel: January 2026 – Stats NZ information release

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/14/international-travel-january-2026-stats-nz-information-release/

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Minister visits EIT Tairāwhiti to see workforce training and innovation

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

7 minutes ago

Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds visited EIT’s Tairāwhiti campus today to see how the newly independent institute is helping build the region’s future workforce.

During the visit, the Minister, along with East Coast MP Dana Kirkpatrick, toured several facilities including the Drone Research Lab, Electrical Lab, Hospitality Kitchens and the Trades Training Centre.

Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds with EIT Senior Lecturer Dr Anastasia Mozhaeva at the Tairāwhiti campus.

EIT Chief Executive Lucy Laitinen said the visit was an opportunity to highlight how the institute is supporting regional economic development.

“The Tairāwhiti Economic Plan is clear that building local capability and investing in our people is fundamental to the region’s future. Now that EIT has regained its independence, we are refocusing squarely on the needs of our region,” she said.

“That means responding to industry, whether that’s pioneering new drone technology with partners like the Port, or creating trades pathways for rangatahi through our Trades Academy. We’re committed to strengthening the regional economy by developing the workforce of both today and tomorrow.”

EIT returned to independence on January 1 following amendments in late 2025 to the Education and Training Act 2020, enabling the institute to sharpen its regional focus and strengthen collaboration with industry.

EIT Executive Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Technology John West said the institute was delighted to welcome Hon Penny Simmonds to the Tairāwhiti campus.

“During her visit, the Minister was interested in the organisation’s 2026 enrolment picture, which continues to show a return toward education across our communities with strong enrolments.”

As part of her visit, the Minister learned more about EIT’s emerging drone technology research, led by Dr Anastasia Mozhaeva and developed through a dedicated research lab supported by Trust Tairāwhiti.

John said the work explores how drone technology can be applied to business and industry while helping develop specialist skills in the region.

“Drone technology is a specialised and emerging field, and it’s an area where we see real potential for Tairāwhiti,” he said.

EIT Executive Dean of the Faculty of Commerce and Technology John West with Minister for Vocational Education Penny Simmonds EIT’s Tairāwhiti campus.

“While visiting the EIT Drone Research Lab, the Minister shared her observations around the need to connect strongly with industry. She was impressed with what EIT had achieved in an emerging technology area and encouraged us to think broadly around the technology’s application.”

The Minister also met students participating in EIT’s Trades Academy programmes, where secondary school students gain hands-on experience across a range of vocational pathways including automotive, engineering, carpentry, hospitality and electrical trades.

John said demand from local schools for Trades Academy places was strong, with enrolment numbers exceeding funded levels.

“We’ve seen incredibly strong demand from local high schools for students to participate in these programmes, which is great,” he said.
Tairāwhiti Campus Executive Director Tracey Tangihaere said the visit was an opportunity to showcase the work being done in the region.

“It was great to have the Minister here to meet some of our students, staff and community partners and to see the programmes we’re delivering in Tairāwhiti. Students and staff enjoyed talking to Minister Simmonds and sharing their passion and aspirations,” she said.

Workforce development remains a key priority in the Tairāwhiti Economic Plan, with employers continuing to face skills shortages across a range of sectors.

Hon Penny Simmonds said she enjoyed visiting EIT, and it was fantastic to see students, tutors and industry partners in action at the Tairāwhiti campus.

“Touring the Drone Research Lab, Electrical Lab, Hospitality Kitchens and the Trades Training Centre gave me a real sense of the practical learning taking place. It was also great to meet secondary school students taking part in Trades Academy programmes and getting a taste of trades training, which shows the strong relationships EIT has with local schools.

“It’s exciting to see the institute preparing students for today’s jobs while fostering innovation, and it really shows the difference a regionally governed, community-focused polytechnic can make in preparing the workforce of tomorrow.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/minister-visits-eit-tairawhiti-to-see-workforce-training-and-innovation/

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Driving more efficiently could help save fuel as prices spike

Source: Radio New Zealand

The war in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has pushed up fuel prices. RNZ / Dan Cook

An energy sustainability expert thinks driving more efficiently could help the country get ahead of any future petrol shortages.

The war in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz has pushed up fuel prices and caused concern about disruption to supply internationally.

Emeritus Professor in Climate Mitigation and Sustainable Energy at Massey University, Ralph Sims, says there are ways to reduce fuel consumption before extreme measures like returning to the car-free and fuel rationing days of the 1970s and 1980s are considered.

“We’ve got to anticipate that we need to take some actions now, ready for when we’ve got extreme situations, which might be in five or six weeks’ time.

“But people love their cars, and like driving them, and so enforcement is not the easiest of options I think the government has got.

“If this war continues and the oil price goes up and there’s a much higher cost when you fill your car up, then there will be an incentive there, not needing enforcement, for people to look at ways of saving on fuel.”

Sim suggested the government do a national education campaign on fuel-saving tips like avoiding heavy braking, checking tyre pressure, and taking things that add weight, like a roof rack, off their vehicle when they are not needed.

“Most people don’t understand how to drive a car efficiently. I see people accelerate to a red light and then brake heavily, and if you’re running on low tyre pressures, it consumes much more fuel.”

He said limiting how often people could use their cars or how much they could fill up at the pump would be difficult to enforce.

“Car-less days, for example, many people found ways to get around it by having a second car.

“We can learn from what we did before. Did it work? How successful was it? Are there other ways to do it nowadays that are better?”

He said nowadays we also have more transport options available.

“The world has changed a bit now in that we do have electric buses in various cities, and we’ve got electric cars, and electric scooters, and public transport is much better than it used to be.

“To encourage people to get out of their petrol or diesel cars and utilise public transport is one way to conserve fuel. But getting people out of their cars is very difficult.

“Unless you’ve got some extreme situation, then education is the only way to try and change public behaviour.”

Richard Bosselman, the editor of the website Motoring NZ, said electric vehicle (EV) sales had been dismal in recent years.

But he speculated that if people were paying more at the pump, that might change.

“We have to make some hard and fast decisions about what kind of transport we need in this country and how we do it. I think electric is something that we need to jump back onto again and promote.

“Maybe this war will be a wake-up call, and maybe New Zealanders will think more about their car choices going forward.”

He said bringing back the Clean Car Discount, which provided rebates for low and zero-emission vehicles, to encourage people to buy EVs might help the country curb fuel use if the war continues.

He said it could also be an opportunity to develop the country’s hydrogen technologies.

“We’re at the end of the world. We’re at the end of a very long supply chain, so everything that comes to us is going to become more expensive. But we are a very self-sufficient nation. We create a lot of electricity and we can create more.

“We have opportunities to create hydrogen, and there’s a whole hydrogen infrastructure that sits there that could work for transport.

“I think this is a good time for Kiwis to take stock, be creative, and try and be optimistic about the future and look for solutions rather than be worried about the ultimate doom and gloom scenario, no matter how dark it all looks just at the moment.”

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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/2026/03/13/driving-more-efficiently-could-help-save-fuel-as-prices-spike/

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First rubber road laid in New Zealand is made from recycled tyres

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand’s first full rubber road has been laid in Glentunnel, in the Selwyn district. RNZ / Tim Brown

New Zealand’s first full rubber road has been laid in Glentunnel, in the Selwyn district.

The local council is trialling three rubber surfaces on Glentunnel Domain Road with the possibility of rubber-based roads being used in other parts of the district.

One part of the road uses rubber chips, another uses rubber in the bitumen, and a third combines the two.

Selwyn District Council transportation delivery manager Steve Guy said the rubber came from recycled tyres – a lot of them.

“So this trial is … saving 29 tonnes of waste tyres – so tyres that would normally get sent from here up to the North Island, shredded and sent abroad. So that 29 tonnes of tyres if that had got incinerated, for instance, would equate to between 20 to 30 tonnes of carbon emissions. So we’ve saved that,” he said.

Selwyn District Council transportation delivery manager Steve Guy. RNZ / Tim Brown

“And ultimately there’s about 1797 mostly truck tyres that have gone into this trial, into this road.”

Cars, trucks, bikes and other road users would put the surfaces to the test over winter.

The rubber-based surface was longer lasting and cheaper over its lifetime despite a higher upfront cost, Guy said.

The product was produced by Treadlite.

Operations and engineering manager Richard Upperton said the company was in a position to rapidly increase production if demand increased.

“We could do hundreds of kilometres now, it’s just a case of how fast can the industry take it up and I’m confident we can keep up,” he said.

Treadlite operations and engineering manager Richard Upperton. RNZ / Tim Brown

Cost would probably prevent the product from ever becoming the standard surface on state highways, but it had applications due to it producing a quieter road surface, Upperton said.

But Selwyn Mayor Lydia Gliddon said there were financial reasons to be excited about rubber roads.

“If we can take this trial and this can be implemented across the country, there’s savings for everyone,” she said.

“This is a circular economy as well. So we’re not having to export tyres off anywhere else, we can make use of the product we have and we can import less bitumen.”

Gliddon said the project reflected Selwyn’s commitment to smart, innovative thinking.

“Selwyn is always looking for fresh ideas that improve value for money and stronger results for our communities. We are determined to not just be building more infrastructure but building better, smarter infrastructure,” she said.

More than six million tyres reached end of life in New Zealand each year while around 180,000 tonnes of bitumen – almost all imported – was used on roads annually.

The council would look to trial the surfaces in other locations and on wider stretches of road if Glentunnel Domain Road was a success.

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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/2026/03/13/first-rubber-road-laid-in-new-zealand-is-made-from-recycled-tyres/

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Dean ‘delighted’ by mayor’s comments on funding restoration of Christ Church Cathedral

Source: Radio New Zealand

Christ Church Cathedral Dean Ben Truman inside the cathedral. RNZ/Rachel Graham

The Christ Church Cathedral Dean is delighted by the Christchurch mayor’s suggestion that the city council should contribute millions of dollars more to the earthquake-damaged building’s restoration.

Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Ltd, which is managing the rebuild, mothballed the project in 2024 because of a $85 million funding shortfall.

The cost to rebuild the earthquake-damaged building had blown out to $248 million, before being revised down to $219m in 2024, leaving a shortfall of about $85m.

The group leading the rebuild, Christ Church Cathedral Reinstatement Ltd, currently plans to do the reinstatement work in stages to reduce the initial costs.

Christchurch City Council is about to start work on plans to upgrade Cathedral Square, with the council seeking expressions of interest.

On Thursday mayor Phil Mauger told Newstalk ZB that he felt the $28.5 million budgeted for the Cathedral Square project was too much money and around half could go towards restoring the Anglican cathedral because, “we’ve got to get our centre back”.

Mauger was unavailable for interview on Friday.

Cathedral Dean Ben Truman said the mayor’s suggestion was pragmatic.

“I think what Phil’s comment shows is we can’t have a fully functional square until we have a fully functional cathedral. This really has to be the priority to open up the square and bring people back into the centre of the city,” he said.

Christchurch was undergoing a renaissance but the square was lagging behind, Truman said.

“We have Turanga, we have Te Pae, the new court theatre, but the square still doesn’t feel fully alive. We want to be part of getting that solution to get that back up and running.” he said.

The cathedral is holding another series of building tours from 13-15 March. RNZ/Rachel Graham

Truman said developers were halfway through the process of reopening the cathedral, with $24m from private donors and a promise of $20m from the Anglican church, leaving a shortfall of $40 to 45 million.

“Every little bit helps and the council has been a wonderful partner to us in the past and we look forward to working with them in the future,” he said.

In a statement, a council spokesperson said Mauger was keen to hear from the public about the city’s iconic buildings, including the cathedral, as part of the council’s draft annual plan.

The cathedral is holding another series of building tours from 13-15 March.

Around 12,000 people have taken part in the tours, which have been running for the past couple of years.

Truman said the free tours were fully booked, with 900 people in hi-vis and hard hats expected through the cathedral.

Visitors would see the recreated stained glass rose window and hear bird song designed to reflect the environment when work started on the cathedral in 1864.

Truman said the tours’ popularity demonstrated how important the building was to the people of Christchurch.

“People love this building, it’s part of our history, part of our story, part of our identity and part of our hope for the future of Christchurch,” he 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/2026/03/13/dean-delighted-by-mayors-comments-on-funding-restoration-of-christ-church-cathedral/

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Live: Hurricanes v Western Force – Super Rugby Pacific

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Hurricanes return home from a demolition job of the Waratahs to take on the Western Force in Napier.

Meanwhile, the Force’s New Zealand tour resumes after a high-scoring defeat to the Highlanders last week.

Kickoff is at 7.05pm.

Hurricanes:

1. Pouri Rakete-Stones. 2. Jacob Devery. 3. Pasilio Tosi. 4. Caleb Delany. 5. Isaia Walker-Leawere. 6. Brad Shields. 7. Du’Plessis Kirifi (cc). 8. Devan Flanders. 9. Cam Roigard. 10. Callum Harkin. 11. Fehi Fineanganofo. 12. Jordie Barrett (cc). 13.Jone Rova. 14. Bailyn Sullivan. 15. Josh Moorby.

Bench: 16. Asafo Aumua. 17. Xavier Numia. 18. Tyrel Lomax. 19. Warner Dearns. 20. Brayden Iose. 21. Jordi Viljoen. 22. Ruben Love. 23. Riley Higgins.

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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/2026/03/13/live-hurricanes-v-western-force-super-rugby-pacific/

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Appeal for information following burglary, Invercargill

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sarah Harper – Invercargill CIB: 

Police are appealing to the public for information following a burglary in Waikiwi, Invercargill this morning.

It happened around 5.15am at a supermarket on North Road.

Initial enquiries have determined that the offenders have used a vehicle to force the front doors of the store open, and taken a large amount tobacco and cigarette products, before fleeing in the vehicle.

Police would like to hear from anyone who may have information about this incident, or about people who may have an excess amount of tobacco or cigarettes, or anyone who has been offered tobacco or cigarettes.

Additionally, if you have CCTV or dashcam footage of the North Road and surrounding areas, between 4.30am and 6am this morning, or witnessed a blue Toyota Prado in the area, please get in touch.

Information can be provided through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260313/4943.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/13/appeal-for-information-following-burglary-invercargill/