Category: New Zealand

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Biosecurity New Zealand investigating and boosting trapping after Oriental fruit fly find

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

A biosecurity operation is under way in Papatoetoe in South Auckland following the discovery of a single male Oriental fruit fly in a surveillance trap, says Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis.

“The fruit fly was identified this evening as part of Biosecurity New Zealand’s national surveillance programme, which involves almost 8,000 traps around the country,” Mr Inglis says.

“We have located this pest thanks to our extensive network of traps. Because of this, we know where the problem is and we can respond quickly and effectively.

“Since 1996, we have successfully eradicated 15 incursions of different fruit fly in Auckland and Northland. 

“These have all have been eradicated thanks to the work of Biosecurity New Zealand, our horticulture partners, and local communities who have stepped up to help.

“The most recent eradication was a single male Queensland fruit fly in Mt Roskill, which wrapped up last week after 6 weeks of intensive fruit fly trapping and the inspection of more than 230 kilograms of fruit.

“The Oriental fruit fly find in Papatoetoe is unrelated to the Queensland fruit fly in Mt Roskill.

“We will be ramping up trapping and inspections in Papatoetoe. As a precautionary measure, Biosecurity New Zealand will put in place legal restrictions on the movement of fruit and vegetables out of the area where the fruit fly has been found.

“Over the next 24 hours, we will issue details about these controls and the exact areas affected. 

“In the meantime, it’s important that people who live and work in the suburb not take any whole fresh fruit and vegetables out of their property.”

Mr Inglis says biosecurity staff will be out tomorrow providing the local community with information.

“You may notice our staff carrying out inspections and trapping in the neighbourhood,” Mr Inglis says.

In addition to the field work, Biosecurity New Zealand is working closely with Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners in the horticultural industry to minimise the risk to New Zealand growers and exporters.

The fruit fly poses no human health risk, but there would be an economic cost to the horticulture industry if it were allowed to establish here.

Mr Inglis says Biosecurity New Zealand has among the strictest controls in the world for the importation of fruit and checks at the border. The most likely way that fruit flies can arrive in New Zealand is on fresh fruit and vegetables.

To report suspected finds of fruit fly, call MPI’s Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66.

More information on the Papatoetoe fruit fly detection

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/biosecurity-new-zealand-investigating-and-boosting-trapping-after-oriental-fruit-fly-find/

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Restrictions now in place on fruit and vegetable movements in Papatoetoe

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Biosecurity New Zealand has placed legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe following yesterday’s detection of a single male Oriental fruit fly, says Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis.

The Oriental fruit fly was found in one of Biosecurity New Zealand’s national surveillance traps placed in fruit trees in residential back yards. No other fruit flies have been found in traps in the area.

“Since 1996, we have successfully eradicated 15 fruit fly incursions in Auckland and Northland, with strong support from the community,” says Mr Inglis.

“This means we have detailed operational plans to guide our work.

“We’re calling on the community’s help again with this latest find.”

Biosecurity New Zealand staff are busy in the Papatoetoe area today laying more traps in addition to the network of national surveillance traps already in the area and giving out information to residents.

“There are now legal controls in place that prohibit the movement of certain whole fruit and vegetables out of a specified controlled area around where the fruit fly was found.”

The controlled area has 2 zones – A and B:

  • Zone A is a 200-metre area, including 501 properties.
  • Zone B covers a 1,500-metre area, including 9,481 properties. 

Zone A

Whole fresh fruit and vegetables, except for leafy vegetables and soil free root vegetables, cannot be moved outside Zone A.

This applies to all produce, regardless of whether it was bought or grown.

Zone B

Whole fruit and vegetables grown within Zone B cannot be moved out of the controlled area.

Signs will notify people of the restrictions and mark the controlled area boundaries.

A detailed map of the controlled area, and a full description of the boundaries and rules in place, can be found on our website.

Oriental fruit fly detection in 2026 in Papatoetoe, Auckland

“These legal controls are an important precaution while we investigate whether any further fruit flies are present in the area,” Mr Inglis says.

“As our climate warms, it is important we remain alert to these risks. That’s why we have a robust surveillance and trapping system in place that allow us to act quickly and effectively when we need to. Our work in Papatoetoe, and the support of the local community, are a good example of our biosecurity system in action.

“We are working closely with our Government Industry Agreement (GIA) partners in the horticultural industry.

“Following these legal controls will help protect our horticultural industries, home gardens, and our New Zealand way of life. We thank the community for its support.”

To report suspected finds of fruit fly, call MPI’s Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/restrictions-now-in-place-on-fruit-and-vegetable-movements-in-papatoetoe/

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Pams Beef Lasagna recalled due to incorrect use-by date

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Foodstuffs Own Brands in its recall of Pams Beef Lasagne due to the product being labelled with the incorrect use-by date. 

“The concern with this lasagna is that the use-by date is incorrect by 2 months. It should have been March 1, which is this Sunday, but instead it is incorrectly labelled as May 1,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle. 

“These products should not be eaten after Sunday. You can return them to the place of purchase for a refund. If that’s not possible, throw them out.” 

The affected Pams Beef Lasagne (1.3 kg) with a use-by date of 01MAY26 is sold at Four Square, New World, and Pak’n Save supermarkets in the North Island. 

Visit New Zealand Food Safety’s recall page for up-to-date information and photographs of the affected product. 

If you eat any of these products after Sunday and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice. 

The products were imported from Australia and labelled in New Zealand. The products have not been re-exported. They have been removed from stores. 

“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Foodstuffs Own Brands to understand how the date mark labelling error occurred and prevent its recurrence,” says Mr Arbuckle. 

The vast majority of food sold in New Zealand is safe, but sometimes problems can occur. Help keep yourself and your family safe by subscribing to our recall alerts. Information on how to subscribe is on the New Zealand Food Safety food recall page.

Pams brand Beef Lasagne recalled due to the product being labelled with an incorrect use-by date

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/pams-beef-lasagna-recalled-due-to-incorrect-use-by-date/

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Hauraki Gulf collections closure comes into force

Source: New Zealand Government

Fishery Officers are ramping up patrols as a ban comes into force on gathering marine life from rockpools and coastal waters on the Hauraki Gulf coast north of Auckland, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones and Under-Secretary Jenny Marcroft say.

The closure, which starts today, has been put in place to help preserve these important ecological areas and ensure the sustainability of the fishery.

“This means it is illegal for anyone to take any seaweeds, shellfish or other rockpool sea life from these areas including sponges, starfish, sea anemones, and sea cucumbers,” Mr Jones says. 

“Fishery Officers will be at key locations to provide information to members of the public about the closure.”

Anyone breaking the rules could face fines ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 and have items used in the offending seized, including vehicles for more serious offences.

“It’s important that people familiarise themselves with the new rules and they can do this by downloading the free NZ Fishing Rules App, checking MPI’s website, visiting an MPI office, or talking with a Fishery Officer,” Ms Marcroft says.

“Officials continue to engage with iwi and local communities to provide support and help get the word out.” 

Fisheries New Zealand worked with the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust on its request for a two-year temporary fisheries closure.

Ngāti Manuhiri will place a traditional rāhui over the closed areas and the same species.

“There is an educational component to help the public learn about the cultural and environmental significance of these measures,” Ms Marcroft says. 

Fisheries New Zealand has also made a range of education materials available to help the public understand the closures, the species affected, and the importance of protecting intertidal ecosystems.

Other measures, including potential infringements, are still being worked on by Fisheries.

A broader programme of work is also under way for managing intertidal shellfish in the Auckland and Coromandel region.

More information, including a map of the closures, is available at www.fisheries.govt.nz/Hauraki-closures 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/hauraki-gulf-collections-closure-comes-into-force/

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Gang members arrested after Bay of Plenty memorial run

Source: New Zealand Police

Persistent Police visibility and strong enforcement sent a clear message to gang members as they came into town for a memorial run last weekend – Police are watching, and we’ll take action when we need to.

The group travelled to the Bay of Plenty District ahead of an event in the small township of Murupara across 7 and 8 March.

In the Bay of Plenty there were several arrests, including three for displaying gang insignia, two for driving with excess breath alcohol, one for obstruction and three for driving while forbidden. A number of infringement notices were also issued.

More than 30 vehicle stops were carried out alongside more than 270 breath tests.

Acting Murupara officer in charge, Detective Sergeant Nathan Marten, said the police visibility and presence was noticed by locals.

“We heard from residents that extra Police in town provided a sense of reassurance. Our high visibility also meant that those involved knew their behaviour was being watched.

“We want our communities to be safe, and we know that sometimes large groups of gang members coming into town can feel intimidating to say the least.

“We’re committed to ensuring everyone feels safe, and holding those who offend to account wherever possible.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/gang-members-arrested-after-bay-of-plenty-memorial-run/

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Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Pasifika TV

Source: New Zealand Government

[Speech to the Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Ltd (PCBL) conference, 6pm, 12 March, New Zealand International Conference Centre, Auckland]

Good evening –

Our hosts, the Pacific Cooperation Broadcasting Limited, particularly Board Chair Brent Impey and Chief Executive Natasha Melesia; 

Pacific broadcasting partners from across the region; 

Members of the diplomatic corps; 

Members of the media, government, and other partners; 

 It is a pleasure to be here today on the PCBL’s 10th Anniversary, marking 10 years of Pasifika TV on air across our Pacific region. Happy anniversary and warm greetings to you all. 

 It’s great you are all able to come together here in New Zealand to celebrate this momentous achievement. And as with many small broadcasting operations across the Pacific, collegiality, creativity, and the ability to solve problems is essential. 

 We are proud to have been your partner every step of the way. One of our great strengths as a region is our commitment to democratic governance. The work you do, as the Fourth Estate, helps to make our societies more connected and more robust.

New Zealand’s Place in the Pacific 

 We have spoken throughout this term about the importance New Zealand places on our region, the Pacific. This region is a core pillar of New Zealand’s foreign policy. Why? Because New Zealand is a Pacific country – we share history, geography, DNA, culture, sports, and religion. 

 Around one in four New Zealanders have Māori or Pasifika heritage. These connections shape our worldview and the responsibilities we accept as a member of the Pacific family. 

 And we see New Zealanders enriching Pacific countries too – through the expansion of New Zealand businesses into the region, through churches, and sports, our tourists, and those supporting development. This two-way, reciprocal exchange is essential. 

 Travel and Recent Engagements 

 The Pacific Reset reinforces that our identity, our security and our prosperity are inextricably linked with the Pacific. We have not only increased investment through our International Development Cooperation programme in the region, but we have been present, listening to our Pacific partners, and carrying those messages home. 

 Our travel has reaffirmed a simple but enduring truth: in the Pacific, there is no substitute for ‘talanoa’, having face-to-face engagement, listening carefully, and strengthening the bonds shaped by the challenges we face and our shared region and history.  Our recent engagements underscored these priorities and highlighted the deep alignment between New Zealand and our Pacific partners. 

 During our recent visit to Kiribati, our discussions and the signing of a new Statement of Partnership deepened a relationship grounded in respect, cooperation, and a mutual commitment to addressing shared challenges. This visit also marked a significant milestone for us: during the current Parliamentary term, we have now visited all 17 fellow Pacific Islands Forum member states, demonstrating New Zealand’s steadfast dedication to regional partnership.

 During these visits we saw the results of New Zealand’s work with Pacific partners to build better infrastructure, to manage our fisheries, strengthen public financial management, education and health systems, and to improve disaster preparedness. 

The New Betio Hospital, which we visited in South Tarawa in January, is a great example of our approach.  It is a high-quality, fit for purpose facility, built on a strong partnership between the Governments of New Zealand and Kiribati, with support from Japan and the Asian Development Bank.  It stands as a symbol of the impact we can have by working together to support Pacific development. 

Connectivity 

 Everywhere we’ve been, our counterparts have stressed the importance of connectivity: physical and digital. Pacific Leaders are clear to us that secure, resilient, and affordable digital infrastructure is essential to national development and regional cooperation. Digital systems underpin access to education and health, enable financial inclusion, expand economic opportunities, and connect remote communities to essential services. It means people can access online content, including broadcasting. 

 Achieving meaningful digital integration requires investment in undersea cables, satellite connectivity, and cyber resilience. It requires building local digital skills, supporting safe online spaces, and strengthening regional interoperability so systems can work across borders. 

 For New Zealand, partnering on digital transformation is both a practical responsibility and an expression of our Pacific identity. Harnessing digital transformation reduces distances, enhances disaster response, supports transparency, and enables broader participation in the digital economy. Ultimately, digital integration is not simply a technical challenge—it is an investment in sovereignty, opportunity, and the unity of our Blue Pacific Continent. 

 Technology is moving quickly in the region to support broadcasting.  As Pacific broadcasters move to digital, local broadcasters begin to have access to multiple channels. This creates an opportunity for digital transformation platforms as connectivity improves, spreading its reach to wider Pacific audiences. 

 This is important because we know that broadcasting and media in the Pacific play a critical role in fostering democracy, ensuring safety, and preserving culture in communities spread across the vast Pacific Ocean.  Media supports democracy by holding those in power to account, providing public service announcements, and promoting civic education. 

 Our ongoing support to PCBL reinforces the importance that New Zealand places on media freedom and a resilient, vibrant and regionally connected Pacific media sector. PCBL is a critical partner. It connects the world to the region during emergencies. And it supports local broadcasters to produce factual and locally relevant media content. New Zealand has been a proud provider of free-to-air content to the PCBL, and in the spirit of our shared love for sports, we are launching an initiative to support PCBL’s capacity to competitively negotiate and secure rights to show major live sports to Pacific audiences. 

 Talanoa is critical in the Pacific, but distance is a challenge. This has been raised with us on our travels, and we have been determined to break down that barrier, including through supporting leaders get to key regional meetings such as the Pacific Islands Forum. If we want regional responses to our challenges, we need regional leaders and our people to connect. 

 The Government is backing up these words with action. I’m pleased to announce tonight that from the 1st of June this year, we are decreasing the total cost of applying for a visitor visa for Pacific nationals from $216 to just $161, for a 12-month period. This is part of New Zealand’s ongoing work to reduce the barriers, including cost, to Pacific visitors travelling to New Zealand. 

This is another practical update to visitor visa settings that reduces cost, supports easier travel, and helps to strengthen the relationships that matter most. This builds on earlier changes, such as longer visa durations and the current visa-free trial for Pacific travellers coming from Australia. 

 Partnership in difficult times 

 Strengthening our people-to-people connections is important when our strategic environment in the region is increasingly complex. The region is navigating sharper great power competition alongside climate and transnational risks that do not respect borders. In these difficult times, regionalism is essential. 

Pacific leaders are clear: they seek cooperation, stability, and sovereignty — not division.  The Pacific Islands Forum’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent remains our shared framework for long-term resilience, security, and prosperity. 

 New Zealand’s position is steady and principled. Pacific countries know they can turn to New Zealand in times of need. We’re continue to invest a range of initiatives that invests in the Pacific preparedness against physical and cyber threats, without adding pressure or duplication. We will also never shy away from having frank, mature, conversations with our Pacific family of nations, and we will continue to advocate for the Pacific – including on the global stage. 

 In an increasingly contested world, values matter. Our collective approaches and our regional architecture, like the Pacific Islands Forum, help guard against the ability of big, powerful countries to divide us. Together we can hold firm to our principles, enhancing the power of the region as a whole. Throughout these challenging times, our guiding principle is unchanged: to work with Pacific partners in ways that honour sovereignty, respond to local priorities, and support long-term resilience. 

 As we look forward to New Zealand’s hosting of the Pacific Islands Forum in 2027, New Zealand will be working to ensure our region is connected and unified. We will use our hosting of the Forum to strengthen the region’s relationships with partners who share our regional values, and who can contribute positively to the region’s prosperity and resilience and to its development. 

 Consensus, respect, and dialogue have defined Pacific diplomacy since the early years of regionalism – they are The Pacific Way. The Pacific Way guides us to engage constructively, to listen carefully, and to move forward collectively even when the issues before us are challenging. At a time of shifting geopolitical currents, the Pacific Way reminds us that partnership is a strength, that sovereignty is to be respected, and that solutions must be Pacific-led and Pacific-owned. 

 Closing 

 The Pacific has a long tradition of navigating vast oceans with courage, vision, and unity. New Zealand is committed to continue working within the Pacific family of nations—listening first, aligning second, and delivering always. 

 In closing, let us reflect on the goal that was established a decade ago by PBCL – to build and support an empowered, resilient and sustainable Pacific broadcasting community which supports informed, open and democratic societies, and regional cohesion. 

 Congratulations again on the first 10 years and all the best for the remainder of your conference. 

 Thank you

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/celebrating-the-10th-anniversary-of-pasifika-tv/

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Long awaited Holidays Act replacement passes first reading

Source: New Zealand Government

A much-anticipated Bill to ensure employees are paid correctly when taking time off work has just passed its first reading at Parliament, Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Brooke van Velden announced today.  

The Employment Leave Bill seeks to replace the Holidays Act 2003 and offers a simple, workable framework that gives businesses certainty, reduces potential error, and fixes what matters for employers and workers. 

“The Holidays Act is complex, confusing, and has led to huge remediation costs.  

The Employment Leave Bill will bring simplicity and logic to the way employment leave is calculated, which benefits businesses by saving them time and money when calculating their payroll obligations, and prevents headaches for both employers and employees from getting payments wrong,” Ms van Velden says.  

“This Bill responds directly to what I’ve heard since coming into office: businesses are overwhelmed by compliance, and workers are missing out on entitlements.” 

“I aim to strike a balance with this legislation. Businesses will benefit from the shift to hours-based accrual and pro-rata sick leave. Workers will benefit from having access to leave entitlements from day one, increased upfront pay for many casual employees instead of accruing annual and sick leave, and full pay for annual leave when parents return from parental leave. 

“Since announcing Cabinet’s policy decisions last year, I have travelled around the country to get feedback from a range of sectors including payroll experts and lawyers to help shape the Bill in its current state. I have been heartened to hear genuine excitement that we have reached this point and that change is finally coming.” 

“I am proud of the significant progress made already to have legislation ready and available for public feedback – a milestone successive Ministers tried but failed to reach. I especially encourage people with technical expertise to make a submission and help ensure this legislation is workable for decades to come.” 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/long-awaited-holidays-act-replacement-passes-first-reading/

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Improved access to secondary legislation

Source: New Zealand Government

A bill to improve access to secondary legislation and digitise government services has passed its final reading in Parliament today, Attorney-General Judith Collins says.

“The Legislation Amendment Bill will make it easier for New Zealanders to find, use, and understand the law that they are required to follow,” Ms Collins says.

“Secondary legislation includes a range of regulations, orders, rules, and notices. Currently, it is difficult to access as it can be published in a variety of places, or sometimes not published at all.

“This makes it harder for businesses and individuals to understand their obligations, increases compliance costs, and works against our goals for a modern digital government.

“The bill will standardise publication practices by making it a requirement for all agencies to publish secondary legislation on their website, or another approved site.

“The redeveloped New Zealand Legislation website will provide a single point of access to all this secondary legislation, no matter who publishes it. 

“This one-stop shop for legislation will make it simpler and faster for the New Zealand public to access the law.

“I’m excited to share that the new website is now live for all New Zealanders to use.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/improved-access-to-secondary-legislation/

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Partnership driving hospitality momentum

Source: New Zealand Government

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston has today highlighted the importance of the hospitality industry to New Zealand’s economy, while speaking at the 2026 Hospitality Summit.  

“Hospitality is a huge contributor to our economy and workforce, helping drive over $9 billion in GDP and employing people across the country,” Louise Upston says.

“Our hospitality businesses shape how visitors experience New Zealand and what they remember long after they leave. 

“Since the inaugural Hospitality Summit in 2024, we’ve worked constructively with industry, responding to issues they’ve raised. We’ve brought the Michelin Guide to New Zealand, invested in regional tourism promotions, supported more major events across the country, and are assessing the regulatory environment through the Hospitality Sector Review.

“This year’s Summit was a chance for industry and government to reflect on progress to date and focus on practical next steps that support a strong, resilient hospitality sector. 

“The progress made demonstrates the positive impacts on economic growth when business and government work together on fixing the basics and building the future. 

“I want to acknowledge the continued work of Hospitality New Zealand, the Restaurant Association and hospitality businesses across the country, and look forward to discussing their ideas and opportunities for ongoing industry success.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/partnership-driving-hospitality-momentum/

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Crown progresses Ngāti Ruapani settlement at pace

Source: New Zealand Government

The first reading for the Ngāti Ruapani mai Waikaremoana Claims Settlement Bill has passed today, just weeks after the deed of settlement was signed, Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says. 

“It is good we can move forward with the Ngāti Ruapani settlement, after signing their Deed of Settlement in Tūwai on 25 February. 

“It was an honour to welcome and host the people of Ngāti Ruapani today, so that they could witness Parliament passing the first reading of their Bill.

“After six years of negotiations with Ngāti Ruapani, this is a significant and long-awaited milestone to reach.

“No settlement can fully compensate for the injustices of the past, which Ngāti Ruapani experienced in full, but this settlement represents a way forward. I hope it will contribute to the support of future generations of Ngāti Ruapani to come.” 

Key elements of the redress include:

  • $24 million financial redress.
  • Undivided half share of Patunamu Forest Ltd.
  • Four commercial redress and two cultural redress properties.
  • Approximately 12,000 hectares of land added into Te Urewera. 

Ngāti Ruapani are based in and around south Waikaremoana. A copy of the Deed of Settlement is available online at: Te Tari Whakatau – Ngāti Ruapani Settlement Documents. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/crown-progresses-ngati-ruapani-settlement-at-pace/

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Forty-nine new cops march out in March.

Source: New Zealand Police

Friends and family members came from all over New Zealand today and celebrated alongside the newly attested constables of the 393 recruit wing at the Royal New Zealand Police College in Porirua.

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers addressed the graduating wing alongside Associate Minister of Police, the Honourable Casey Costello, members of the police executive and wing patron, Keven Mealamu MNZM.

Top award winner and first in wing Constable Aaron Rock swapped his career in firefighting and emergency medical (EMT) work for a new role in Policing.

“I will be forever grateful for my family’s sacrifices and unwavering support. They push me constantly to become a better version of myself. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love.”

Aaron will be based in Central District.

Leadership Award Winner, Constable Harawira Smith -Ngāti Kahungunu and Te Arawa, says “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Aotearoa. I am proud to stand alongside every member of wing 393.”

Harawira will be based in the  Bay of Plenty.

Deployment:
The new constables will start their first day of duty in their Police districts on the week beginning Monday 23 March 2026 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables.

Tāmaki Makaurau receives a total of 19 new officers (Auckland City 5, Waitematā 7, Counties Manukau 7), Waikato 5, Bay of Plenty 6, Eastern 1, Central 7, Wellington 8, Tasman 2, Southern 1.

All Awards:
Minister’s Award recognising top student: Constable Aaron Rock posted to Central District.
Commissioner’s Award for Leadership: Constable Harawira Smith posted to Bay of Plenty District.
Patron’s Award recognising second top student: Constable D’arcy Murray posted to Bay of Plenty District.
The Firearms Award: Constable Jovarn Simmonds posted to Wellington District.
Driver Training and Road Policing Practice Award: Constable Alfred Cathro posted to Wellington District.
Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award: Constable Luke Cherrington posted to Tasman District.

Demographics:
30.6 percent are female, 69.4 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 69.4 percent of the wing, with Māori 4.1 percent, Pasifika 4.1 percent, Asian 20.4 percent, LAAM 2.0 percent.

Patron:
Keven Mealamu MNZM is a proud man of faith and family. A former All Black with over 100 test caps, he brings the values of teamwork, resilience, and discipline from rugby into business, governance, and community leadership. Keven has built and led ventures in health, wellbeing, and creative industries, while serving on boards and advisory groups that navigate complex strategic and cultural challenges.
As owner and director of FIT60HQ Gym and Protect For Life Insurance Brokers, he is passionate about helping whānau and businesses safeguard their futures, focusing on legacy, prosperity, and socially responsible decision-making. Keven is committed to strengthening people, organisations, and communities across Aotearoa. Keven was made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) in 2016 for services to rugby.

Watch out for our Ten One graduation story coming soon with more images and details.

Issued by Police Media Centre

ENDS

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/forty-nine-new-cops-march-out-in-march/

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Government supports Pacific cultures at Polyfest  

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing in the world’s largest Pacific festival, Polyfest, supporting Pacific culture, young people and families, says Pacific Peoples Minister Dr Shane Reti. 

 

“Polyfest, which celebrated 50 years last year, is an important celebration of Pacific culture and youth. It showcases the pride and strength of our Pacific young people. Their leadership through culture, strengthens families, communities and New Zealand. The Government is proud to support this event again in 2026 with $60,000 from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples,” Dr Reti says.  

 

“I’m pleased we are making this investment because a vibrant culture is important to Pacific communities, but so is their safety, their children’s education and health, and quality of life overall.  

“The Government is helping Pacific people by fixing the basics and building the future, including making them safer with 49,000 fewer victims of violent crime and repeat youth offending down 22 per cent. We have also put in $1 million to support Pacific Wardens,” says Dr Reti.  

“Pacific kids are doing better in school with children meeting expected levels in phonics improving from 27 per cent up to 43 per cent and childhood immunisation rates at 82.6 per cent. More than 300 Pacific students are building a future through Toloa STEM scholarships. 

“Quality of life is being improved with significant investment into Pacific housing, including Our Whare Our Fale delivering up to 300 homes, plus 41 homes through the Pacific Affordable Homes Fund. Alo Vaka has supported more than 300 Pacific people into better paying jobs, while inflation has more than halved and mortgage rates are down. 

“Maintaining family connections is also important to Pacific people. The Government is making it more affordable with visitor visas for Pacific citizens travelling to New Zealand, dropping in June. Through these initiatives, the Government is uplifting Pacific peoples across the country,” Dr Reti says. 

The 51st annual Polyfest, including the Cook Islands, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, and Diversity stages, will run from 18 to 21 March 2026 at Manukau Sports Bowl, with the theme:  

Ko au ko te Taiao! Ko te Taiao ko au! He Toa Taiao Taiohi nō te Moana nui a Kiwa, āke, ake, ake! The environment lives in me, as I live in it – a ‘Pacific Youth Eco-Warrior’ for generations to come. 

Te Paparewa Māori (formerly called the Māori stage) will be held from 30 March to 2 April 2026 at Due Drop Events Centre, Manukau. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/government-supports-pacific-cultures-at-polyfest/

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Green Party announces 14 Māori candidates in the initial candidate list for the 2026 General Election

Source: Green Party

The Green Party announces 14 Māori candidates in the Delegate List for the 2026 General Election, which will now inform the membership voting process.

Co-Leader Marama Davidson says, “our diverse Māori candidates are supported by whānau, hapū and iwi, further strengthening Māori voice in the Green Party and across the motu. I am proud that our list reflects the importance of our staunch Māori candidates to our Party.”

The Māori candidates on the list with their ranking number are:

1. Marama Davidson

3. Teanau Tuiono

4. Tamatha Paul

6. Hūhana Melanie Lyndon

11. Kahurangi Carter

12. Craig Aaron Pauling

15. Tania Waikato

17. Rohan O’Neill-Stevens

19. Heather Hinemoa Te Au-Skipworth

22. Mike Davidson

24. Zephyr Brown

29. Nathan Hoturoa Gray

30. Te Whatanui Kipa Leka Taumalolo Skipwith

33. Awhi Haenga

This list includes three wāhine māori running in three Māori Electorates. Hūhana Lyndon in Te Tai Tokerau, Heather Te Au Skipworth in Ikaroa – Rawhiti, and Tania Waikato in Waiariki.

“It’s really exciting to see and celebrate candidates stepping forward who reflect the diversity and richness of communities across Aotearoa.

 

“Bold Māori voices will ensure that we can build a government that upholds te Tiriti o Waitangi and honours the Crown’s responsibility to guarantee tino rangatiratanga of tangata whenua over their whenua, kāinga and taonga katoa.

 

“Māori leadership strengthens the Green Party and the work we do for people and planet. Protecting our whenua, supporting whānau into warm homes and healthy kai, and drawing on mātauranga Māori to help lead solutions to the climate crisis” says Marama Davidson.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/green-party-announces-14-maori-candidates-in-the-initial-candidate-list-for-the-2026-general-election/

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Green Party releases initial candidate list for 2026 General Election

Source: Green Party

The Green Party has released its Delegate List of candidates for the 2026 General Election, which will now inform the final membership voting process.

“This is a strong electable list of people who represent diverse communities across Aotearoa and are ready for government,” says Green Co-leader Marama Davidson.

“Aotearoa has enough for everyone to thrive and we can build a society that works for people and planet. Only the Greens have a plan to ensure everyone’s needs are met and nature is healthy. With more Green MPs we will see this vision in place across the motu.

“Our diverse Māori candidates are supported by whānau, hapū and iwi, further strengthening Māori voice in the Green Party and across the motu. We are proud that our list reflects the importance of Māori candidates to the Party.

“By voting for the Green Party, we can build a society where power and wealth are in the hands of our communities and our precious nature is valued,” says Marama Davidson.

Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick added:

“2026 will be an historic election. With such a talented mix of returning Green MPs and new Green talent, the government New Zealanders deserve is ready to get on with the work of lowering bills and climate changing emissions.

“Politics belongs to those who turn up. That is why the Greens are organising in communities across this country for people to take back their power – to build an economy that works for everyone and the environment, instead of exploiting and exhausting both.

“Our candidates reflect the people and values of this country, and they’re hitting the ground running. Returning MPs are joined by candidates with experience spanning local government, education, law, green energy and community organising – to name just a few,” says Chlöe Swarbrick

The Green Party’s Delegate List for the 2026 election is:

1. Marama Davidson

2. Chlöe Swarbrick

3. Teanau Tuiono

4. Tamatha Paul

5. Julie Anne Genter

6. Hūhana Melanie Lyndon

7. Lawrence Xu-Nan

8. Lan Pham

9. Ricardo Menéndez March

10. Francisco Hernandez

11. Kahurangi Carter

12. Craig Aaron Pauling

13. Bhen Goodsir

14. Steve Abel

15. Tania Waikato

16. Scott Willis

17. Rohan O’Neill-Stevens

18. Yasmine Serhan

19. Heather Hinemoa Te Au-Skipworth

20. Louise Hutt

21. Shreejan Pandey

22. Mike Davidson

23. Asher Wilson-Goldman

24. Zephyr Brown

25. Angela Dalton

26. Josh Jacobsen

27. Lauren Craig

28. Carl Morgan

29. Nathan Hoturoa Gray

30. Te Whatanui Kipa Leka Taumalolo Skipwith

31. Alika Wells

32. Courtney White

33. Awhi Haenga

34. Pamela Grealey

35. Alma de Anda

36. Chris Norton

37. Melody Willis

This initial List will now be put to a vote of all members of the Green Party, who will be given the opportunity to choose this ranking, or rank candidates in their preferred order.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/green-party-releases-initial-candidate-list-for-2026-general-election/

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Illegal driver, weapons, drugs and vehicle

Source: New Zealand Police

When Police stopped a driver, it led to the discovery of a vehicle full of illegal items.

After stopping a vehicle on Friday, Police arrested the driver for driving while disqualified.

Police also noticed a long barrel firearm tucked down by a seat.

A search found more including a slug gun, hatchet, a loaded .22 rifle and a homemade 12-gauge pipe gun.

All items were seized, the driver was taken to the station and the vehicle was impounded.

A 34-year-old man will appear in Hamilton District Court on 1 April charged with possession of a firearms, ammunition and other offensive weapons, and driving disqualified.

Police continue to encourage people to report any suspicious behaviour on 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/illegal-driver-weapons-drugs-and-vehicle/

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Government Cuts – Latest proposed health cuts will leave public health system worse off – PSA

Source: PSA

The PSA is deeply concerned about the long-term consequences of the proposed restructure of the Ministry of Health’s Corporate Services function, which will see 46 roles disestablished and workers forced to reapply for fewer jobs.
The proposed cuts would, if finalised, see a net loss of 25 roles.
“This is the direct result of the Government’s relentless spending cuts,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“Those who could lose their jobs are skilled and committed public servants who do important work – they have more to give our health system.”
The proposed restructure would see design services outsourced, financial advisory roles cut from five to two, and information management and digital workplace roles reduced with some IT training reduced to self-service online models. The Ministry itself acknowledges that ‘some service levels within information and knowledge services will need to reduce’.
“These are the people managing finances, information systems, business analysis, and digital infrastructure. When you gut this function, the impacts are real, the work just gets pushed onto other staff who are already stretched. And right now, the last thing the health system needs to lose are IT specialists.
“The Ministry has been told it must ‘live within a reduced baseline’ over the next three years, but what that really means is fewer people doing vital work that keeps the public health system running.
“This is just more hollowing out of our health system, part of the pattern we have seen right across the public sector for more than two years now. The Government keeps cutting, agencies keep shrinking, and the services New Zealanders rely on keep getting worse.”
The cuts follow several other restructures at the Ministry, alongside massive job cuts at Health NZ Te Whatu Ora where 2,800 roles have been axed over the past two years. The PSA will be strongly opposing the cuts in its submission to the Ministry on the proposal.
“The Government’s priorities are all wrong when you consider it’s giving away $20 billion in tax cuts to business, landlords and big tobacco and not funding the health system properly,” said Fitzsimons.
“New Zealanders deserve a public health system that can meet the challenges of an ageing population, growing demand, and increasing complexity. These cuts take us further from that goal, not closer to it.
“Make no mistake, come the election, we will be reminding New Zealanders of the damage the Government is doing to the public health system we all rely on.”
Recent statement
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/2026/03/12/government-cuts-latest-proposed-health-cuts-will-leave-public-health-system-worse-off-psa/

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Ex Chatham Islands Council chief executive Paul Eagle apologises as audit exposes ‘excessive’ spending

Source: Radio New Zealand

Former Chatham Islands Council chief executive Paul Eagle. RNZ / Richard Tindiller

An auditor-general’s report into Chatham Islands Council spending has found former chief executive Paul Eagle should not have been in control of a project to upgrade his own accommodation, after costs ballooned by more than $250,000.

It also revealed Eagle edited or created quotes and contracts, and said the former Rongotai MP’s handling of documents was misleading and demonstrated exceptionally poor judgement.

The report – tabled in Parliament on Thursday – was instigated following concerns about spending that could be seen to give private benefit to staff.

Eagle took up the position as council chief executive in the Chatham Islands shortly after the retirement of the previous chief executive in August 2023. The job included the use of a home which – ahead of Eagle’s appointment – had a $200,000 project approved to address overdue maintenance.

The inquiry found Eagle made multiple additions to the project, including expensive kitchenware and electrical work, that suppliers considered to be excessive.

Supplied / Jenny Siaosi

It also uncovered an array of deficiencies in council policies relating to procurement, conflicts of interest, staff expenses and fiscal reporting as well as “misalignment” between existing policies and how they were put into practice by Eagle and council staff.

In a letter included in the report findings, Eagle – who resigned last month – apologised and said his actions did not meet the standards expected of himself and his role.

Inquiry raises ‘serious integrity questions’

The council – which served about 600 people living on Chatham and Pitt Islands – relied heavily on Crown funding for both its operational and capital spending.

Auditor-General Grant Taylor and Assistant Auditor-General Melanie Webb said a project to refurbish the home which housed the council’s chief executive was not well managed, and changes Eagle requested “increased the costs beyond what was necessary”.

Quotes and contracts for the work on the property were found to have been created or edited by Eagle, as well as procurement memorandums created by him in 2025 had been backdated to the previous year.

Eagle ran for mayor of Wellington in 2022. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“Individually, any of those examples would be concerning. Together they raise serious integrity questions for the council to contend with,” the report’s authors wrote.

“The information that the chief executive provided was misleading. Specifically, it created an incorrect picture about when certain events occurred (for example, when a contract was signed) or whether they had happened at all.

“We consider that the chief executive’s actions were unacceptable and demonstrated exceptionally poor practice and judgement.

“We have not reached a view on the legality of the chief executive’s actions. In this case, we consider it sufficient to draw the council, Parliament, and the public’s attention to the matter.”

The report said the significant cost of the project and the risk the upgrade to the house could be perceived as benefiting Eagle and his family should have instigated approval by the council or one-up approval by the mayor or deputy mayor, in line with the council’s sensitive expenditure policy.

“However, the chief executive effectively had sole control and oversight of the house upgrade project. He incurred that expenditure on the council’s behalf and approved most of the spending,” they wrote.

Eagle apologises: ‘I panicked’

In a letter accompanying the report, Eagle acknowledged its findings and apologised for the impact of his performance in the role.

“I started as chief executive of the council in late 2023, three months earlier than planned and, because of the illness of the outgoing chief executive, did not receive a formal, structured induction process covering the policies, processes, systems and documentation expected of the role. I wholeheartedly accept now that I should have sought clarity and support for this process.”

Eagle said that documentation and information provided to explain his actions to the inquiry also “fell short” of expected standards.

“In hindsight, I recognise I panicked when I realised documentation was incomplete and I tried to fix this. I deeply regret that those actions did not meet the standards I expect of myself and my role.”

Cost soared as Eagle took control

Ahead of Eagle’s appointment, a 2021 estimate of the cost of the building’s upgrades was $152,250 (plus GST) and the original budget was set at $200,000.

The final cost of the project was $460,001.65. Another $37,739.19 was also spent on rent to house Eagle and his family as the work went ahead.

In early November 2023 a revised quote from builders (dated 25 October) – which included some, but not all of Eagle’s suggestions for additional upgrades to home – allocated $10,000 for Fisher and Paykel kitchen appliances.

Eagle had contacted the building company on 26 October about installing Miele kitchen appliances at a cost of $18,102.45. The revised quote was approved by the mayor and deputy mayor after Eagle sent it on to them on 7 November. But the inquiry found Eagle had ordered the Miele appliances over a month earlier, on 30 September.

Basalt columns on the Chatham Islands Judi Lapsley Miller

“We saw little sign of any consideration of containing costs during the project. We also consider that the chief executive made spending choices that were not moderate and conservative,” the authors wrote.

“Purchasing expensive appliances for the kitchen and carrying out extensive electrical work that suppliers working on the project widely considered to be excessive were particularly questionable.”

Eagle’s wife caught up in potential conflict of interest

Eagle was found to have directly engaged with consultancy services without following council procurement processes and failed to store contract documentation in the council’s systems.

“There was a pattern of the chief executive failing to ensure that contracts were prepared and signed before work started. The contracts signed on the council’s behalf were generally retrospective, in whole or in part,” the authors wrote.

The council also failed to properly manage a conflict of interest which arose after a proposal to subcontract Eagle’s wife, Miriam Eagle, as on-island project lead on the council’s 30 year strategy. This occurred as a part of a $109,600 contract variation signed off by the mayor in July 2024.

“The only measure that the council took to manage the conflict was one-up approval of the contract by the mayor. The chief executive continued to manage the contract and the council did not hold the contract centrally in its system,” the authors wrote.

The report noted no conflict of interest policy was in place at that time, but a policy was put in place in December 2024.

Inconsistencies were also identified with information provided to the inquiry by Eagle concerning consultancy services.

Lack of detail and control of credit cards and expense claims

The inquiry also found deficiencies for the management of council credit card use and reimbursement claims.

It said staff did not provide enough detail to justify claims and separate systems for reviewing credit card spending and reimbursement claims hampered oversight of expenses.

The report identified insufficient detail on “unusually high” spending for Eagle and other council staff on food and other purchases.

Flights to and from the Islands which were allocated specifically to Eagle – as a part of his employment contract – were also used to transport his wife and child.

“Staff were generally aware that the chief executive had this contractual entitlement, but there were no procedures to govern how the contractual entitlement was used. In our view, this left staff in a difficult position because they had no guidance about what the council considered acceptable use of the entitlement.

“Using the contractual entitlement for family members’ travel does not appear to be consistent with the principles of the sensitive expenditure policy,” the authors wrote.

Recommendations

The report highlighted concerns over “the misalignment between the council’s policy and practice, the lack of effective controls over spending and/organisational integrity and ethical leadership”.

“The combination of these factors makes it difficult for Parliament and the public to have confidence in the council’s decision-making about how it spends public money,” the authors wrote.

The report said the council needed to examine staff training around spending, and more effectively track and monitor invoices.

“In response to our draft report, the council told us it had engaged with another local authority to obtain advice about improvements to the council’s internal controls,” the authors wrote.

“The council acknowledged that more transparent reporting to the elected membership is necessary and said it would establish a framework of transparent and regular updates to the elected membership.”

During the inquiry some staff spoke of a “toxic” working environment and said concerns raised about spending had been dismissed by senior leaders although this was refuted by the former mayor.

The council said it planned to “reflect on its organisational culture” and had established a chief executive review committee to monitor chief executive performance.

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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/2026/03/12/ex-chatham-islands-council-chief-executive-paul-eagle-apologises-as-audit-exposes-excessive-spending/

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Tech tool used to target pest plants at precious wetland

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  12 March 2026

Whangamarino is 7000 ha wetland an hour north of Hamilton, comprising open water, swamp, fen and peat bogs. It is listed as significant under the international Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and is home to numerous threatened plant and insect species.

A recent report on the wetland to the Convention identifies a concerning decline in water quality, indigenous wetland habitat, the wetland’s Australasian bittern/matuku population, and cultural values recognised by mana whenua.

One of the biggest threats to Whangamarino is invasive weeds, which outcompete native plants and alter the waterways and food sources essential to taonga species.

Royal fern is among those. It’s an introduced, tough and adaptable deciduous plant, which grows rapidly and can take over wetlands by crowding out slower-growing, rare native species found in Whangamarino.

Department of Conservation Biodiversity Ranger Lizzie Sharp says two drones, operated by specialist pilots, were used to map the royal fern and implement targeted herbicide control during fine weather periods in late February.

“Slogging through the peat bog to carry out ground control would be very hard going for our teams and could also risk damaging the surface of the bog,” Lizzie says.

“The drones took to the air and used a targeted jet of herbicide on the royal fern in the centre of the bog, before moving out toward the edge of the bog in an effort to push the invasion back.”

It’s the first time royal fern has been controlled using an aerial device, and the success and efficiency of the method may lead to it being used to control other weeds in future. The contractors carried out half a day of mapping their work area before three days of control using the drone.

Lizzie says with weather increasingly unpredictable due to climate change, numerous approaches to pest plant control will be needed – and drones will be valuable for protecting important habitats like Whangamarino.

Left uncontrolled, royal fern will appear in most habitats, especially bare damp ground. It produces thousands of spores distributed by the wind and unintentional human carriers and forms dense forests shading out all other species. At Whangamarino, this includes native peat bog vegetation which has adapted to exposed sunlight. After the fire of October 2024, royal fern has used the disturbed ground to grow into dense canopies at a faster pace than native plant species.

Lizzie says contractors used a helicopter to control willow species across the wetland during summer. Willow is another introduced pest plant which can cover the breeding and feeding habitat for matuku-hurepo/Australasian bittern. The helicopter method was similar to the use of the drone, with half a boom used to apply herbicide to the willows. Precision spot-spraying on individual trees complements aerial control and means surrounding vegetation is not impacted.

Willows also absorb water from the surrounding area. Their root systems create mounds of earth where water should be running, altering fish populations. Whangamarino locations where willows were controlled a few years ago have native plants returning to support insects, fish and birds in the area.

The aerial application of herbicides is strictly controlled through DOC’s operating procedures and a set of rules and regulations that DOC and its contractors must follow.

Whangamarino is precious and fragile eco-system, and as it recovers from the fire of 2024, people are asked not to go naturing in the wetland to protect the fragile peat bog.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/tech-tool-used-to-target-pest-plants-at-precious-wetland/

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Four accused in Gulf Harbour body in bag case argue to have their manslaughter charges dismissed

Source: Radio New Zealand

The victim, Shulai Wang, 70, of China Supplied / Police

Four people charged with manslaughter, over the death of a woman whose body was found in the water in Aukcland’s Gulf Harbour, have made arguments to have their charges dismissed.

The body of 70-year-old Shulai Wang wrapped in black plastic bags was discovered by a fisherman in March 2024.

Two men and two women were facing charges of kidnapping and manslaughter.

The hearing for the defendants’ application to stay charges took place at the High Court at Auckland on Thursday, just months out from the trial set down for May.

All details of the hearing were suppressed.

Justice Mathew Downs reserved his decision.

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/2026/03/12/four-accused-in-gulf-harbour-body-in-bag-case-argue-to-have-their-manslaughter-charges-dismissed/

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Consumer NZ – Tens of thousands of people face cancelled flights – they have rights

Source: Consumer NZ

Consumer NZ says passengers disrupted by Air New Zealand’s flight cuts are entitled to ask for a refund if they don’t want to accept a replacement flight.

“Air New Zealand has announced it will be cutting over a thousand flights in the coming weeks because of rising fuel costs. While most travellers will be rebooked onto same-day flights, we want people to know that if that new flight doesn’t suit them, they can choose not to take it and ask for their money back instead,” says Jon Duffy, chief executive of Consumer.

When an airline cancels flights due to events out of its control, like severe weather or airspace closure, passengers usually have to accept the disruption and wear any associated expenses or claim on their insurance. Consumer believes Air New Zealand’s cancellations are within its control.

“The decision to amend the flight schedules is driven by rising fuel costs. We think this is an operational decision, which means impacted passengers have rights if the rescheduled flight doesn’t suit them.”  

Your domestic flight rights
If your domestic flight is cancelled for a reason within an airline’s control and you do not want to accept a replacement flight, you can ask for a refund under the Civil Aviation Act (CAA).

Under the CAA, you can also claim back additional expenses such as meals, accommodation and any other costs incurred in getting to your destination.  

In total, you can claim back the lesser of up to 10 times the cost of the ticket, or the actual cost of delay.

Your international flight rights
Consumer says that because Air New Zealand’s flight cancellations are a financial decision, and the airline will struggle to show it took all reasonable measures to avoid the cancellations or delays, it is also likely to be liable for disrupted international flights under international laws, including the Montreal Convention.  

For international flights, your rights differ depending on where you’re flying and the airline you’re flying with. However, at a minimum, you’ll be entitled to a refund if you don’t want to accept the alternative flight that’s offered to you. You may also be able to claim back any additional costs you incur. In total, the maximum amount you can claim for a delay under the Montreal Convention is  $15,134 – this includes alternative flights to get you to your intended destination.  

Disrupted passengers who are set to depart from airports in the EU could be entitled to additional financial assistance. Consumer has further detailed information on its website: https://consumernz.cmail19.com/t/i-l-ztjuyit-ijjdkdttjk-y/

Consumer’s flight rights petition
Airlines in New Zealand don’t have to tell passengers their rights.

Despite amendments to the Civil Aviation Act last year, giving the minister the power to require airlines to inform passengers about their rights, no action has been taken.

“People impacted by flight disruptions deserve clarity – it shouldn’t be up to them to interpret complex laws to figure out who is at fault for a cancellation, and what that means for their own situation. Air New Zealand’s flight cuts highlight precisely why the current information gap needs to be filled,” says Duffy.

On Tuesday, Consumer presented a petition to parliament calling on the Government to require airlines to tell passengers their rights when flights are delayed or cancelled. The petition was signed by over 10,500 people.

 

About Consumer

Consumer NZ is an independent, non-profit organisation dedicated to championing and empowering consumers in Aotearoa. Consumer NZ has a reputation for being fair, impartial and providing comprehensive consumer information and advice.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/12/consumer-nz-tens-of-thousands-of-people-face-cancelled-flights-they-have-rights/