Category: New Zealand

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Foxton Shannon Road closed after crash

Source: Radio New Zealand

Foxton Shannon Road. Google Maps

The road linking Manawatū towns Foxton and Shannon has been closed after a serious crash.

Police said the single-vehicle accident happened between Himatangi Block Road and Poplar Road at around 9.40am on Saturday.

Early indications were that someone suffered a serious injury.

“The Serious Crash Unit has been advised, and motorists are advised to take diversions,” police said in a statement.

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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/2026/03/07/foxton-shannon-road-closed-after-crash/

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Moa Point disaster exposes deeper problems, public health experts warn

Source: Radio New Zealand

Lyall Bay beach and the rest of Wellington’s south coast has been off limits since the Moa Point treatment plant failed on 4 February. RNZ / Krystal Gibbens

Public health experts are warning the catastrophic failure of Wellington’s Moa Point wastewater treatment plant exposes deep, systemic problems with New Zealand’s infrastructure management.

Early last month a blockage in the plant’s outfall pipe led to a backflow of sewage into the plant, shutting it down and forcing the closure of beaches along the city’s South Coast as up to 70 million litres of untreated sewage was sent into the sea each day.

The University of Otago’s Public Health Communication Centre said the failure was a severe example of problems already affecting systems across Aotearoa.

It said Water New Zealand’s latest performance review recorded more than 3000 sewage overflows nationwide, though the true number was likely higher because reporting had historically been inconsistent.

It also found about 20 percent of the country’s 334 publicly run wastewater treatment plants were operating with expired resource consents, meaning they may not meet current best-practice standards or have robust monitoring in place.

If the inquiry into the Moa Point wastewater treatment plant was too narrow, the risk was only learning lessons about Moa Point and not systems across New Zealand, Marnie Pricket said. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

University of Otago research fellow Marnie Pricket said responsibility for water services was spread across multiple organisations, including the national regulator Taumata Arowai, regional councils, local councils and central government ministers.

Pricket said the complexity of that system made accountability unclear when things went wrong.

“For example, Taumata Arowai has oversight of water services but doesn’t currently have the legislative tools to intervene if regional councils fail to regulate wastewater discharges effectively.”

Poor wastewater management posed risks to both human and environmental health, including exposure to raw sewage, contamination of drinking water sources and polluted shellfish beds, she said.

Ageing infrastructure and climate change were also likely to increase the risk of failures in the future.

The government announced a Crown Review Team would investigate the failure under the Local Government Act 2002. But Prickett said that process appeared to focus largely on the role of Wellington City Council, which could limit its ability to investigate the full range of issues affecting wastewater management across the country.

“The drivers of poor wastewater management are much broader than a single council,” she said. “They include policy and investment decisions, workforce limitations, problems with data quality, governance issues, and unclear roles and accountability across agencies.”

The upcoming Crown inquiry must examine not just the immediate cause of the breakdown, but the wider drivers behind wastewater failures nationwide, Prickett said.

“If the inquiry is too narrow, we risk learning lessons only about Moa Point,” she said.

“But this is a national issue, and the inquiry should help us understand how to improve wastewater management across the country.”

The review should follow the model used after the 2016 Havelock North campylobacter outbreak, she said.

“The value of the Havelock North inquiry was that it looked at the specific outbreak, but it also examined the broader drivers of poor drinking water across the country.

“That meant the lessons could be applied nationally. That’s what we’re hoping for with the Moa Point inquiry.”

Local Government Minister Simon Watts was approached for comment.

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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/2026/03/07/moa-point-disaster-exposes-deeper-problems-public-health-experts-warn/

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Fronts expected to bring heavy rain to deep south

Source: Radio New Zealand

MetService issued heavy rain watches for parts of the South Island. Screenshot/MetService

A yellow heavy rain watch has been issued for parts of Fiordland, southern Westland and Southland.

MetService issued the watches on Saturday morning as a slow moving front is expected to bring heavy rain to Fiordland and far southern Westland.

Another front is expected to bring heavy rain to Fiordland from early Sunday, and a period of heavy rain is then also expected to affect inland Southland.

The watches are for Westland about and south of Haast from 9am to 9pm Saturday, Fiordland about and north of Doubtful Sound from 9am Saturday to 9pm Sunday, and for Southland from 7am to 7pm Sunday.

All three watches have a moderate chance of upgrading to a warning.

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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/2026/03/07/fronts-expected-to-bring-heavy-rain-to-deep-south/

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Acid rain falls on Vanuatu islands as volcano belches ash

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Manaro Voui volcano is spewing ash and smoke as high as four kilometres above sea level. The alert level remains at three on a scale of five and a 3km danger zone has been declared around the crater. 24 February 2026 Supplied/Sergei Kriukov – Unity Airlines

The Vanuatu government has decided not to order a mass evacuation of communities on Ambae island affected by acid rain from the Manaro Voui volcano.

On Friday the Council of Ministers (cabinet) endorsed the recommendations of the National Disaster Committee for a plan of action.

This included approving a budget of 20 million vatu (US$170,000) for a team from the National Disaster Management Office to go to Ambae on Saturday.

Once there they will assess the most affected parts of the island and have them declared disaster zones.

Climate change minister Ralph Regenvanu said there is no mandatory evacuation at this stage but people in the worst affected areas are encouraged to move to less affected parts of the island if they do not feel safe.

“Even though on Ambae we are hearing the activity of the volcano is changing, sometimes it is increasing and sometimes it is going down, it is still only at alert level three,” Regenvanu said speaking in Bislama.

Regenvanu said plans are in place should the volcanic activity increase even further.

“The council has also approved that if we go to alert level four, which is the worst case scenario, and will require the whole island to be declared a disaster zone and for us to start evacuations, an emergency plan is already in place.”

Acid rain impacts

Acid rain from the volcano on Ambae – 310km north west of the capital of Port Vila – is reportedly effecting water and food supplies.

Authorities say the volcano is spewing toxic burning ash which is now covering the entire island due to wind changes.

The Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazard department (VMGD) says acid rain has now reached Santo, Malakula, Pentecost and Ambrym islands.

Its director, Levu Antfalo described its effects.

“It burns, right because it contains sulphuric oxide, it rains down and becomes acid rain. It burns their crops, pretty much anything that it gets in contact with, water as well. Usually those who use wells, drums, tanks that are not covered could be affected, but bore hold water seems to be okay,” he said.

Antfalo said the heavy ash fall also alters the PH levels in water, making it more acidic.

“I mean it burns their protein source, like vegetables.. We were told as well it increases the PH of water as well as prawns and fish that are there (in rivers).”

Vanuatu’s cabinet is convening an emergency meeting Friday to discuss the escalating situation on Ambae Island following increased volcanic activity at the Manaro volcano. Facebook / Ministry of the Prime Minister – Vanuatu

Edwin Tarai and his family were evacuated after Ambae erupted in 2018, and have never returned.

The 74-year-old, who lives in Santo, said people on Ambae were complaining about government inaction.

“There is no plan of moving out at the moment but there is a concern. People are complaining and wondering what is the government’s next move,” Tarai said.

The former nurse practitioner said that the noise is increasing and can be heard in east Santo, Pentecost and Ambrym islands.

Nixon Garae, a tug boat captain in Luganville, Santo has relatives in East Ambae, who described the noise.

“They said the noise is very loud because when people are talking you can’t hear the other person talking. It is causing ear pain because it’s very loud and heavy,” he said.

“Last Saturday when they were in church, when the preacher stood up at the front, they could hardly hear him because the noise was too loud.”

Vanuatu Meteorology and Geohazards Department

Active shield volcano

A volcano duty officer with New Zealand’s GNS Science, Yannick Behr said Ambae is a typical shield volcano and a very active one at that.

“It’s part of a chain of volcanoes in Vanuatu, they’re sitting on a rifting zone that is caused by the eastward subduction of the Australian plate. That tectonic process keeps that volcanism alive so all volcanoes on this rifting zone, they erupt quite regularly,” Beer said.

The latest plumes are about four kilometres above sea level, he said.

“It can twice as high, but again these are explosive eruptions but because of the consistency of the magma they tend to be not quite as catastrophic as you can see them (sic) from other types of volcanoes,” Beer said.

The geohazards department has issued a reminder to Ambae residents to stay out of the danger zone.

This comes after an aviation warning was issued on Thursday for volcanic ash cover over the island.

In a public address overnight director Levu Antfalo warned residents to take precautions.

“Just a reminder that the danger zone is a three kilometres radius around the crater. So do not go close to it,” Antfalo said.

“Things to take care of include water, protect your water supply. It will also affect food gardens. And also those with respiratory illnesses…this can affect the health of families that live close to or in the surrounding areas of Ambae,” he said.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/07/acid-rain-falls-on-vanuatu-islands-as-volcano-belches-ash/

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Israel, US intensify attacks on Iran as war hits 7th day

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above.

The conflict in Iran continues to widen.

In Azerbaijan, two people have been injured after Iranian drones hit an airport and landed near a school building.Explosions have been heard over Bahrain and Qatar.

Evacuation notices have been issued for southern parts of Lebanon’s capital Beirut, Israel is attacking strongholds of the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militia.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military says it has continued its attacks on Iran.

And, US President Donald Trump told news outlet Axios that he needs to personally be involved in selecting Iran’s new leader.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of this page.

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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/2026/03/07/israel-us-intensify-attacks-on-iran-as-war-hits-7th-day/

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Chiefs v Moana Pasifika – Super Rugby Pacific

Source: Radio New Zealand

Chiefs’ Quinn Tupaea scores a try during the Chiefs vs Moana Pasifika, Super Rugby Pacific match at FMG Stadium, Hamilton. DJ Mills / Photosport

The Chiefs bounced back from last week’s Super Rugby Pacific disappointment to run riot against Moana Pasifika in a 57-24 win.

This has been one of the most one-sided fixtures since Moana joined Super Rugby and Friday night was no different.

In a frenetic first, half seven tries were scored before the break in Hamilton.

Chiefs back Quinn Tupaea continued his strong start to the season when he scored close to the left touch line in the third minute.

A minute later fullback Liam Coombe-Fabling scored the second try when he strolled over the line by making the most of the outside channel.

Moana closed the deficit 10 minutes into the game when fullback Glen Vaihu collected a bounce pass, straightened up, and sliced through beside the posts.

Chiefs winger Leroy Carter also capitalised on space down the left side when scored with ease in the 16th minute.

Against the run of play Moana hit back with a try for number eight Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa as he bumped off players to get to the try line.

Chiefs’ Damian McKenzie takes a high ball during the Super Rugby Pacific match. DJ Mills / Photosport

New dad Damian McKenzie helped set up the Chiefs’ fourth try with some fancy footwork to create space in Moana defence before winger Emoni Narawa got in on the scoring action.

McKenzie also played a part in the fifth try which was scored by former Wallabies midfielder Lalakai Foketi in his first start for the hosts. McKenzie got a kind bounce off his own kick before he flicked the ball back in field to Cortez Ratima, who was also back from paternity leave, and then fed Foketi.

After all the action in the first 40 minutes the Chiefs lead 31-14 at half-time.

Moana were first to score in the second half when Tupou Ta’eiloa again used his size to keep his side in the game.

Carter scored twice in six minutes to bring up his hat-trick on the night and extend the Chiefs’ lead.

With his first touch of the game replacement Kyle Brown was rolling in behind the posts as McKenzie converted it to bring up the 50 points.

Another substitute, Tyrone Thompson also got in the board when he lobbed to the back of the lineout, and the Chiefs got a drive going with Thompson in the boot. He remained patient, seeing his way over in the corner.

For all their dominance the Chiefs were also ahead on the penalty count which will have frustrated coach Jono Gibbs.

With time nearly up on the clock, Tevita Ofa scored his second try of the season and Moana’s fourth of the game.

Moana now extend their losing streak against the Chiefs to eight games and a third loss of the season keeps the team on the bottom of the points.

Follow how all the action unfolded below:

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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/2026/03/06/chiefs-v-moana-pasifika-super-rugby-pacific/

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Live: NRL round one – New Zealand Warriors v Sydney Roosters

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow all the NRL action. as NZ Warriors take on Sydney Roosters at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.

Kickoff is at 8pm.

Team lists

Warriors: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, 3. Ali Leiataua, 4. Adam Pompey, 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita, 7. Tanah Boyd, 8. James Fisher-Harris, 9. Wayde Egan, 10. Jackson Ford, 11. Kurt Capewell, 12. Jacob Laban, 13. Erin Clark

Interchange: 14. Sam Healey, 15. Demitric Vaimauga, 16. Leka Halasima, 17. Tanner Stowers-Smith, 18. Taine Tuaupiki, 20. Morgan Gannon

Reserves: 21. Alofiana Khan-Pereira, 22. Luke Hanson, 23. Eddie Ieremia-Toeava

Roosters: 1. James Tedesco, 2. Daniel Tupou, 3. Billy Smith, 4. Robert Toia, 5. Mark Nawaqanitawase, 6. Daly Cherry-Evans, 7. Sam Walker, 8. Naufahu Whyte, 9. Benaiah Ioelu, 10. Lindsay Collins, 11. Angus Crichton, 12, Nat Butcher, 13. Blake Steep

Interchange: 14. Conor Watson, 15. Siua Wong, 16. Egan Butcher, 17. Spencer Leniu, 18. Cody Ramsey, 19. Fetalaiga Pauga

Reserves: 20. Salesi Foketi, 21. Tommy Talau, 22. Toby Rodwell

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/live-nrl-round-one-new-zealand-warriors-v-sydney-roosters/

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Sky Tower in blue to honour fallen police officers

Source: New Zealand Police

New Zealand is leading the way as the world honours police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Auckland’s Sky Tower is lighting up in blue this evening and tomorrow to herald the INTERPOL-led International Day of Remembrance for Fallen Police Officers, recognising the thousands of police officers worldwide who lose their lives each year in the course of duty.

It is the first event marking the designated day – 7 March – which will see police headquarters, stations and landmarks around the world illuminated in blue as dusk falls in successive time zones.

Commissioner Richard Chambers says he is grateful for the support of SkyCity to offer the Sky Tower to support the international event. 

“This is to recognise all police officers in New Zealand and highlights the bravery of police officers across the world, and their commitment to carrying out their duties, serving their communities to keep people safe.

“Given our time zone, New Zealand Police will launch this global tribute, and the Sky Tower will be the first to be lit in blue as the campaign moves across the world.”

Coincidentally, the tribute ends a week which started in New Zealand with a ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of Memorial Wall, which commemorates the now-34 of our colleagues slain on duty.

“Front of mind for New Zealand Police officers, colleagues and whānau will be our own officers killed while on duty, including most recently the tragic loss of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming killed in the line of duty last year in Nelson,” says Commissioner Chambers.

“We honour Lyn and all the officers on our Memorial Wall. We remember them and all they gave to the New Zealand Police and achieved for the people of New Zealand.”

ENDS

Note to media: When available, images of the Sky Tower will be posted to our New Zealand Police Facebook Page or request from media@police.govt.nz

About the Remembrance for Fallen Police Officers campaign

On 7 March, the world will pause to honour police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, as INTERPOL marks the International Day of Remembrance for Fallen Police Officers.

Observed annually, the Remembrance for Fallen Police Officers Day brings together police services, officers, families and communities across continents and time zones in a shared moment of reflection, solidarity and respect for the police women and men who lost their lives whilst protecting their communities and upholding the rule of law.

This year’s commemoration will feature a highly visible global tribute. At dusk on 7 March, INTERPOL member countries have been invited to illuminate police headquarters, local stations and some of the world’s most recognisable landmarks in blue.

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/sky-tower-in-blue-to-honour-fallen-police-officers/

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Fonterra – Mainland Group sale unconditional

Source: Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd
 
Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd has today confirmed that the agreement to sell its global consumer and associated businesses, Mainland Group to Lactalis for $4.22 billion is now unconditional.
 
All required regulatory approvals have been received and the separation of Mainland Group from Fonterra is complete.
 
With all conditions of the sale satisfied, Fonterra and Lactalis will now proceed to complete the transaction.
 
Timing of capital return
 
In February, Fonterra shareholders voted to approve a capital return of $2.00 per share to shareholders and unitholders following completion of the transaction.
 
Fonterra can today advise that it expects the record date to be eligible for the capital return to be 9 April 2026 and the payment date to be 14 April 2026, based off the transaction completing at the end of March 2026.
 
Fonterra will confirm the capital return record date and payment date when the transaction completes.
 
About Fonterra  
 
Fonterra is a co-operative owned and supplied by thousands of farming families across Aotearoa New Zealand. Through the spirit of co-operation and a can-do attitude, Fonterra’s farmers and employees share the goodness of our milk through innovative consumer, foodservice and ingredients brands. Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re committed to leaving things in a better way than we found them. We are passionate about supporting our communities by Doing Good Together.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/fonterra-mainland-group-sale-unconditional/

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Analysis: What would it take for Christopher Luxon to quit as prime minister?

Source: Radio New Zealand

One of Luxon’s weaknesses in the top job is his inability to take feedback. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Analysis – If anyone is going to convince Christopher Luxon it’s time to step aside from the prime ministership, it’s his forerunner and friend Sir John Key.

The pair are close, and throughout Luxon’s time at the helm he has checked in almost weekly with the former prime minister.

One of Luxon’s weaknesses in the top job has been his inability to take feedback from colleagues, staff or officials. That has even extended to Key on occasions, where it’s understood Luxon has been keen to do most of the talking while Key has been left to do the listening.

Another Achilles’ heel is Luxon’s complete lack of self-doubt.

It’s understood those two personality traits have more recently extended to him not reading focus group reports because much of the criticism is that it’s Luxon who is the problem.

Key and Luxon usually catch up at the weekend, and while their chat in the next 48 hours is more likely to focus on what Luxon needs to change to reclaim the narrative, if he has had any doubt seep in about his future in the job then Key would also be first port of call for how best to manage his exit.

Their talks come after a disastrous week for Luxon bookended with woeful interviews on Monday and a poll sliding National below 30, to 28.4 percent, on Friday.

Sir John Key. Tim Collins

That Taxpayers’-Union Curia poll would see the centre-left bloc slide into power, but only just, with 61 seats to the coalition government’s 59.

This is the second public poll to have National below 30 since October last year – the same pollster had National on 29.6.

Luxon says he doesn’t read into or comment on polls, but the fact the two sliding National below that red line of 30 were conducted by their own internal pollster makes it more difficult for the prime minister to ignore.

If National is going to hit the nuclear button on a new leader it needs to consider the political landscape at play.

For a start, a change of leader does not always lead to a change of fortunes.

Secondly, a new leader will be coming into the job at the exact point in the electoral cycle where the coalition parties are trying to present a strong and stable government while simultaneously trying to distinguish themselves from each other.

The step-up from minister to prime minister is enormous on its own, let alone when it also requires that person to work both with and against experienced and politically savvy operators David Seymour and Winston Peters.

David Seymour and Winston Peters. RNZ

National MPs were already spooked before Friday’s poll landed.

Luxon’s failure to articulate a clear message on Iran early in the week had some commenting that his communicating to the public, via the media, had got worse over time rather than better.

At this point the National Party looks to be sitting on an orange alert, but it wouldn’t take much to slide into red. The triggers for that will be either Luxon deciding he’s had enough (the least likely of scenarios), those closest to Luxon (his wife Amanda, and Key) convincing him the best path is stepping aside, or the caucus and his staff making it clear on Tuesday when Parliament is back sitting that he no longer has their confidence.

Any decision to change leader will need to consider what impact it could have on National’s coalition partners.

Peters and Seymour wouldn’t tolerate any change to the coalition agreements and commitments already made by Luxon, and if a fresh leader had desires to do so then it would be game-on for New Zealand First and Act to renegotiate and ask a high price.

While all of these considerations go on in the background, those fancying themselves as the next prime minister will be spending the weekend weighing up the pros and cons.

Education Minister Erica Stanford has long been tipped as a future leader, while Housing and Transport Minister Chris Bishop will also be doing the maths.

He’s on his way to India to watch the T20 Cricket World Cup final between New Zealand and India in the wee hours of Monday morning (NZT).

If things start moving fast back home at the weekend, it wouldn’t be surprising if he got back on a plane before the first ball was bowled.

Luxon’s last engagement with the press gallery was on Wednesday at Parliament.

RNZ bumped into him briefly on Friday afternoon on the streets of Botany, but our questions all went unanswered.

He currently isn’t scheduled to front media again until his Monday morning regular slots, which is a very long time in politics.

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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/2026/03/06/analysis-what-would-it-take-for-christopher-luxon-to-quit-as-prime-minister/

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New Dunedin Hospital’s ‘approved budget’ higher than government claimed

Source: Radio New Zealand

The new Dunedin Hospital build site. RNZ/Tess Brunton

The approved budget for the new Dunedin Hospital (NDH) is just over $2 billion, though the government continues to use a figure $174 million less than that.

The newly revealed budget is $2.05b, while the government as recently as Wednesday said it was $1.88b.

The difference was revealed in a report released by Treasury this week. Treasury then pulled the report to check if it had revealed commercially sensitive information. It had not, and it was republished on Friday.

The report gave the ‘approved budget’ at Dunedin as $1.614b for the inpatients block and $440m for outpatients – $2.054b altogether.

This was based on Health NZ data given to Treasury for the latest quarterly investment report (QIR) covering June-September 2025, that it has released.

The QIR also said fragmented oversight and “limited visibility” threatened to undermine the project.

A spokesperson for Health Minister Simeon Brown said the project had an “approved total budget” of $1.88b.

The higher “approved budget” included a contingency for cost overruns, and an option to fully fit out a floor (that might otherwise be empty) that the lower figure does not, Treasury told RNZ.

Such details were “not routinely published”, it said.

But it did publish them, on Tuesday in the QIR. Realising this, Treasury called RNZ midweek asking it to hold off reporting the $2.054b figure. RNZ agreed.

“It was brought to our attention that commercially sensitive information may have been released as part of the QIR documents,” it said.

“In such cases, Treasury’s practice is to remove the document in question from the website while we investigate and ascertain whether the information is commercially sensitive before re-publishing.”

It was not. Treasury republished the QIR on Friday but told RNZ it expected to blank out three other small parts after it turned out these might be commercially sensitive.

“The government has previously announced a cost of $1.88b that related to the NDH Inpatients and Outpatients Building,” it told RNZ on Thursday evening.

“Health NZ has informed us the additional cost of $174m was not included in the $1.88b announcement as it related to costs for project level contingency and preserving future optionality.”

Asked for comment about the difference on Thursday, Brown said only that “the government is committed to delivering the New Dunedin Hospital” and referred RNZ to Treasury’s statement.

The hospital project was bedevilled early on by bad oversight, official reviews showed. The government cut it back in 2026 to hit the newly imposed $1.88b target, sparking public protests, warning otherwise it might escalate to $3b.

Protesters say the lower South Island will pay for any cuts made to the new Dunedin Hospital. RNZ / Tess Brunton

But by September 2025 the project was still fraught, according to the Treasury QIR based on data from Health NZ.

“New Dunedin Hospital (Inpatient Building) has reported an 18-month delay,” the report said.

“The Treasury and the Investment Panel share concerns that the fragmented governance of the whole NDH programme and limited visibility of the NDH Inpatients project has the potential to undermine effective oversight and implementation of the investment.”

It recommended Brown get it looked into. The report gave a December 2029 end date for the inpatients build, but last September Brown said “practical completion” would be in 2030 and it would actually open to patients in 2031.

Brown’s spokesperson told RNZ he had a review done last August of inpatients by an independent panel appointed by Treasury.

“The review made seven recommendations to strengthen delivery, and those recommendations have been accepted and are being actioned.”

RNZ has asked for a copy of the review.

Brown’s office said the government had appointed a Crown manager to “strengthen governance and ensure clear accountability for delivery” and Health NZ reported back regularly to the minister.

The government was focused on delivering the project whereas Labour only announced it, “without a credible delivery plan”.

Professor Robin Gauld, a close observer of the build who has an honorary role at the University of Otago, said, “It’s an unfortunate of affairs and no surprise that Treasury now has this on their radar, with a number of significant risks and high likelihood of a budget blowout.

“It could be comparatively straightforward if our politicians would understand that the public expects them to work together across administrations on multi-year projects such as this.

“Our lot unfortunately just don’t get it. They would rather see hundreds of millions of dollars wasted while blame-shifting.”

Gauld said the country was missing a long-range hospital planning unit like Singapore had, and also missing a joint oversight framework like in Finland that joined key politicians with project managers and construction companies.

The QIR showed for the September 2025 quarter the inpatients project spent only about a third of what had been forecast it would spend in those three months, and had so far spent just 1 percent in total of its $1.6b budget. The further-advanced outpatients, due to open later this year, spent 62 percent of forecast in the quarter.

Brown’s office said the digital programme for outpatients was “on track” while the digital infrastructure phase for inpatients was being prepared for joint ministerial approval.

Simeon Brown. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The QIR also put the Nelson Hospital redevelopment project two in the category “successful delivery in doubt”.

Last month Health NZ shrugged off ‘red’ warning alerts on the Nelson and Dunedin projects contained in the QIR for the previous April-June 2025 quarter.

In Auckland, the Specialised Rehabilitation Centre at Manukau Health Park was way overdue, the QIR said.

Brown’s spokesperson said this project was progressing, with a tender seeking information input completed and a tender for actual proposals to build it coming up.

“Labour announced this project without a clear plan to deliver it, much like the Middlemore Hospital recladding project which was announced in 2018 but never started.

“This government got that project underway last year and we are taking the same approach to ensuring the Manukau rehabilitation centre is delivered.”

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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/2026/03/06/new-dunedin-hospitals-approved-budget-higher-than-government-claimed/

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Two seriously injured near Levin after ambulance, gas truck collide

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

A St John’s paramedic and a LPG delivery driver have been seriously injured in a crash on State Highway 1, north of Levin.

St John’s area operations manager Gareth Collings said a rapid response unit was caught up in the crash which happened at 10.40 am near Poroutawhao, north of Levin.

“The paramedic in the rapid response unit and the driver of the other vehicle were both treated for serious injuries and transported to Palmerston North Hospital by ambulance. Our thoughts are with those impacted by this incident and we are offering support to our people who were involved,” Collings said.

St John would be “supporting police” investigating the cause of the crash.

A Genesis Energy LPG delivery vehicle was involved in the crash. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Genesis Energy’s Ed Hyde confirmed one of its LPG delivery drivers was involved in the crash.

“Genesis has another vehicle on the way to the scene to collect the LPG cylinders and we will work with emergency services to make the site safe,” Hyde said.

Workers on a nearby site told RNZ they saw a St John vehicle travelling north with flashing lights before the crash.

St John has been approached for comment.

A reporter at the scene said workers unloaded household gas canisters from the bed of a smashed-up truck outside Lewis Farms on SH1.

The truck has lost its front wheels and the damaged cab was resting on the ground.

More than 100 vehicles were backed up at a cordon before traffic was allowed through.

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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/2026/03/06/two-seriously-injured-near-levin-after-ambulance-gas-truck-collide/

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Appointments – Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Appoints New Chief Executive

Source: Heritage New Zealand

Appointment announced by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga announces the appointment of Dean Whiting MNZM (Te Whānau ā Apanui/ Farquharson) as its new Chief Executive / Manahautū.
Mr Whiting will move from his current position as Deputy Chief Executive Kaihautū Māori. Mr Whiting has been the Acting CEO since the completion of tenure of former CE, Andrew Coleman, in 2025. As a long-serving staff member of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Mr Whiting has led programmes supporting the protection, conservation, and celebration of Aotearoa New Zealand’s heritage places, taonga and cultural landscapes.
In 2023, Mr Whiting was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Māori Arts, recognising his significant contribution to Māori arts revitalisation and preservation. His work has included hands on leadership of the Māori Built Heritage Programme of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and wide-ranging support and advice to Māori communities across the motu.
Mr Whiting has also served on the Boards of the Arts Council of New Zealand, the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and worked as a project conservator for the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. He is currently chair of the Tohu Whenua heritage tourism programme and leading the governance oversight of seismic strengthening and adaptive reuse of Turnbull House in Wellington. His long-standing commitment to strengthening the heritage sector reflects a future-focused approach to safeguarding both heritage places and our significant cultural landscapes.
Board Chair Dame Jo Brosnahan says the organisation is well-positioned for the future with Mr Whiting at the helm. “Dean’s appointment marks an important next step for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. His deep experience, proven leadership and clear strategic focus give the Board great confidence as we enter a new phase of strengthening partnerships, supporting our people, and delivering on our long-term heritage responsibilities.”
Edward Ellison, Deputy Chair of the Board and Chair of the Māori Heritage Council, warmly welcomes the appointment. “The legacy of Te Māori – the landmark international exhibition – lives on in this moment. Dean was part of the original cohort of conservators whose training was made possible by Te Māori, and he carries that whakapapa of heritage revitalisation into this role. It is deeply fitting that Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga is now led by someone shaped by that moment.”
Mr Whiting brings deep organisational knowledge and a long-standing commitment to bicultural partnership under the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act 2014. His appointment marks a continuation of the organisation’s strategic focus on ensuring sites and stories that are important to all New Zealanders are protected and revitalised for future generations.
About Dean Whiting MNZM
Dean Whiting MNZM completed a Bachelor of Applied Science in the Conservation of Cultural Materials (Canberra, Aus) in the late 1980s with a cohort of Māori students who continue to be regarded as New Zealand’s leading experts in the conservation of traditional Māori arts. He has worked for more than 30 years as both an independent conservator, Project Conservator at the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga on the conservation of Māori cultural heritage. Dean was most recently the Deputy Chief Executive Kaihautū Māori for Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and has served on the Board of Creative New Zealand between 2017 and 2022 and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS). In 2023 he was made a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to Māori Arts.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/appointments-heritage-new-zealand-pouhere-taonga-appoints-new-chief-executive/

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Hauraki Gulf – Connection with one of Auckland’s great backyards

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

It’s hard to believe that Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland, our largest, busiest and most densely populated city in New Zealand hosts one of the most abundant and diverse marine parks in the world.

Our treasured Hauraki Gulf Marine Park, New Zealand’s only national park of the sea, is 1.2 million hectares and includes more than 200 islands and islets, including 47 pest-free islands where numerous endangered species can survive and thrive. On top of this, there is now 19 new protection areas – two marine reserve extensions, 12 new high protection areas, and five new seafloor protection areas in the Gulf.

Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland from the harbour.
: DOC

Getting out on the water it didn’t take long to realise that lots of people have a strong connection to the marine park. It wasn’t just rec fishers out mid-week enjoying a spot of fishing, I saw boaties sailing and exploring the Gulf as well as plenty of visitors heading out to the islands, connecting with the wildlife that calls the Hauraki Gulf home.

As a new DOC staff member in an office role, and someone who’s lived in Auckland most of my life without even realising the marine park existed, it’s been pretty special getting out to see what Tāmaki Makaurau’s greatest backyards is actually like.

Out there, the city fades away surprisingly quickly. You’re surrounded by islands, seabirds wheeling overhead, and a sense that there’s a whole other world beneath the surface.

That connection to the ocean is exactly what Seaweek celebrates – the idea that people, wildlife and the environment are all linked. And it’s also what the new marine protections for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park aim to support for years to come.

DCIM100GOPROGOPR0062.JPG

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Diver with fish Mokohinau islands – Monique ladds

A special place beneath the waves

The Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi is one of Aotearoa’s most loved marine environments. It’s home to an incredible variety of marine life and habitats – from rocky reefs and kelp forests to seagrass meadows and shellfish beds.

These habitats support the species many people care about when they head out on the water. Fish like snapper, kahawai and trevally are a big part of the Gulf’s fishing culture. Divers and snorkellers get to explore underwater forests of kelp and rocky reefs teeming with life.

But like many places around the world, the Gulf has been under pressure.

Sediment washing into the sea, pollution, habitat loss and fishing pressure over many years have taken a toll on parts of the marine environment. Some shellfish beds have declined, seagrass meadows have shrunk, and in some places kelp forests have been replaced by “kina barrens” where sea urchins dominate and not much else grows.

When habitats struggle, the species that rely on them struggle too.

That’s why there’s been a big push in recent years to revitalise the Gulf.

Sediment Diver with arm buried – Shaun Lee

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Sediment Diver with arm buried – Shaun Lee

A boost for the Gulf

A major step forward came in late 2025 with the introduction of new marine protections across the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park.

The new network includes 19 marine protection areas spread across the Gulf. These include marine reserve extensions, high protection areas and seafloor protection areas. Together they represent the biggest increase in marine protection in Aotearoa in more than a decade.

These areas were chosen because they protect important habitats and ecosystems – places that are especially rich in marine life, rare, or particularly important for the health of the wider Gulf.

Some areas protect rocky reefs that support thriving underwater communities. Others protect seafloor habitats like seagrass meadows or shellfish beds that act as nurseries for young fish.

Protecting these places helps rebuild the foundations of the Gulf’s marine ecosystem.

What the new protections mean

The different protection areas each play a role in helping marine life recover.

Marine reserves offer the highest level of protection. No fishing or removal of marine life is allowed, but people can still visit, snorkel, dive or explore the area. These reserves often become incredible underwater hotspots where marine life can thrive.

High protection areas are designed to give ecosystems a chance to bounce back. Fishing and the removal of natural materials are mostly prohibited, though authorised customary fishing by tangata whenua can continue.

Seafloor protection areas focus on protecting sensitive habitats on the seabed. Activities that damage the seafloor, like bottom trawling or dredging, are restricted, while low-impact activities like line fishing, diving and spearfishing can still happen.

Importantly, most of the Hauraki Gulf is still open to recreational fishing. The aim isn’t to shut people out, but to protect key parts of the ecosystem so the Gulf stays healthy into the future.

Why marine protection helps

Marine protection is one of the most effective tools we have to help ocean ecosystems recover.

In protected areas, fish often grow bigger, populations increase and ecosystems become more balanced. Over time, some of those fish move into nearby areas where fishing is allowed – something often called the “spillover effect”.

Healthy habitats also play a huge role in supporting fish populations. Seagrass meadows and shellfish reefs, for example, act like underwater nurseries where young fish can grow before heading out into deeper waters.

Looking after these habitats helps ensure the Gulf continues to support the marine life – and fishing experiences – that people value.

Sponge Garden – Paul Caiger

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Sponge Garden – Paul Caiger

Working together for the Gulf

The new protections are just one piece of a much bigger effort to revitalise the Hauraki Gulf.

Restoring the Gulf also means tackling the pressures that come from land, such as sediment runoff and pollution, as well as restoring habitats like mussel reefs and improving fisheries management.

Tangata whenua have played an important role in shaping the protections and continue their role as kaitiaki of the Gulf, bringing generations of knowledge and care for this special place.

DOC rangers will also be working on the water and with local communities to help people understand the new protections and where they apply.

Revitalising the Gulf will take time, but every step helps move things in the right direction.

Staying connected to the ocean

Spending time out on the water really drove home just how important the Hauraki Gulf is to so many people.

For some it’s about fishing with mates or family. For others it’s sailing between islands, exploring a new beach, or diving beneath the surface to see what’s there.

These experiences shape the way we connect with the ocean.

By protecting important parts of the Gulf, we’re helping make sure those experiences are still possible for future generations – so kids growing up in Tāmaki Makaurau and visitors from all over New Zealand and the world can discover the amazing marine life beneath the waves just like people do today.

Seaweek is a great reminder that everything is connected – the land, the sea, wildlife and people.

The new marine protections in the Hauraki Gulf are all about strengthening those connections and helping this incredible ocean backyard thrive for years to come.

Common dolphins in the Hauraki Gulf
: DOC

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/hauraki-gulf-connection-with-one-of-aucklands-great-backyards/

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Otago Hector’s dolphin project to reveal links to other populations

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  06 March 2026

Hector’s dolphins, also known as tutumairekurai, pahu, or upokohue, are endemic to Aotearoa New Zealand and considered a taonga species. They are one of the smallest dolphins in the world and known for their rounded ‘Mickey Mouse ear’ shaped dorsal fin.

With an estimated population of around 15,700, they are managed under the Hector’s and Māui Dolphin Threat Management Plan, which recognises four distinct Hector’s dolphin sub-populations around Te Waipounamu/South Island. The East Coast population is considered to be made up of a number of smaller local populations.   

DOC Senior Science Advisor Anton van Helden says little is known about how the small Otago group connects to other populations. 

“Until now, conservation management for the small Hector’s dolphin population in Otago has been based on their assumed connection to adjacent populations along the East Coast,” he says. 

“Recent genetic work has suggested that they may be more closely aligned with the South Coast sub-population.

“By collecting high quality genetic samples, we can determine how closely related – or not – the dolphins in this area are to neighbouring groups and ensure they are managed appropriately.” 

The survey expands on work DOC started last year and builds on recent environmental DNA (eDNA) research by the University of Otago. 

“This raises important questions about population connectivity, and exposure to and our management response to regional threats such as fishing bycatch impacts and diseases like toxoplasmosis,” Anton says.

The survey will use a well-established biopsy sampling technique, where a small, lightweight dart collects tiny skin and blubber samples from free-swimming dolphins. This method has been safely used on Māui dolphins for more than 15 years and provides high quality DNA with minimal disturbance. 

“The tiny samples we collect are archived in the New Zealand Cetacean Tissue Archive (NZCeTA) and will give us opportunities to understand genetic relationships, age structure, aspects of their diet, and even reproductive status,” says Anton. 

The survey will run from Monday 9 March to Sunday 22 March, covering the coastline from just south of Oamaru to the Taieri Head. Surveys are planned for the Catlins in 2027.

Sample analysis will be carried out in collaboration with the University of Auckland – Waipapa Taumata Rau and mana whenua. 

Data collected through this work will support the long-term protection of Hector’s dolphins and help ensure the species endures for future generations. 

People out naturing on the water can help by reporting Hector’s dolphin sightings using the SeaSpotter app or via our online Marine mammal sighting form.

Background information

For more information on Hector’s dolphins, and DOC’s work to protect them: Hector’s dolphin: marine mammals

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/otago-hectors-dolphin-project-to-reveal-links-to-other-populations/

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ASB wins Morningstar Fund Manager of the Year – KiwiSaver award

Source: ASB

Morningstar has named ASB as KiwiSaver Fund Manager of the Year New Zealand for 2026, rewarding the strong fund performance achieved for its nearly half a million KiwiSaver members during 2025.

ASB Chief Investment Officer Frank Jasper says that this independent endorsement is a real vote of confidence for ASB’s KiwiSaver members.  

“As one of the country’s largest KiwiSaver providers, we take great responsibility and care in managing our customers’ money and take the trust they place in us very seriously.

“Every investment decision we make is with the goal to help New Zealanders have confidence in their financial future – whether that’s saving for retirement or buying their first home.” says Frank.  

ASB’s Growth, Moderate, Balanced and Conservative KiwiSaver funds all achieved top quartile returns for both one and three year rolling periods. ASB Moderate and Conservative funds also ranked number one in their categories for 1-year returns to 31 December 2025 according to latest Morningstar’s latest KiwiSaver report December 2025, showcasing ASB’s strength across the range of investment strategies and risk profiles.

The funds’ strong performance, particularly during a year of volatility and unpredictable markets, reflects a carefully curated and disciplined long-term investment approach, in partnership with world-class fund manager BlackRock.

“We will continue to innovate and build out our investment capability to deliver even stronger outcomes for our customers, while empowering savers and investors to make the right decisions that’ll help them grow and achieve their long-term goals.” says Frank.  

Matt Olsen, Morningstar Australasia’s Director, Manager Research, said “It’s fair to say that 2025 was a challenging year to navigate. There were inflation surprises, geopolitical uncertainty, and growth uncertainty. Compounded by a market displaying valuations disconnected from fundamentals, it made it a challenging year, even for the best investors.

“Despite this, our nominated fund managers demonstrated an ability to deliver quality, high-performing investments and have stood above peers with exceptional returns over the longer term.” concludes Olsen.

For more information about the Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence in New Zealand: Morningstar Awards for Investing Excellence New Zealand 2026: Winners Announced | Morningstar

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/asb-wins-morningstar-fund-manager-of-the-year-kiwisaver-award/

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Arrest and appeal following aggravated robbery, Whanganui

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Rebecca Taylor, Whanganui CIB:

Police have arrested and charged one person in relation to an aggravated robber in Castlecliff, Whanganui, this week.

On Wednesday 4 March, around 6.10pm, Police were called with a report of an aggravated robbery that had occurred at a premises on Polson Street.

It is alleged that the offenders entered the premises and stole a number of cigarettes and bottles of alcohol, before fleeing the scene on a quad bike.

Yesterday, Police arrested one youth in relation to the incident. They are due in Whanganui Youth Court, charged with aggravated robbery.

Enquiries remain ongoing and Police are not ruling out any further arrests or charges.

Police are asking for anyone who has information about the incident or who witnessed a quad bike entering or leaving the Polson Street area, or has dashcam footage of the area, on Wednesday 4 March between 5.30pm and 6.30pm, to please get in touch.

You can provide information through 105, either online or over the phone, referencing file number 260304/4451 – or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/arrest-and-appeal-following-aggravated-robbery-whanganui/

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Community effort brings one to court, Feilding

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have arrested and charged a 23-year-old man following a reported burglary at the Feilding Library.

On Sunday March 1, Police were notified of a burglary believed to have occurred overnight, with initial estimates placing the value of alleged stolen items at more than $20,000.

Sergeant Mike Linton says thanks to vigilance from members of the public and strong community knowledge, Police were able to identify the alleged offender immediately.

“As a result, Police located a 23-year-old man, where he was arrested and charged with burglary.

“This quick result highlights the strength of the local community working alongside Police.

“This is another example of our community banding together and remaining vigilant by reporting suspicious behaviour,”  says Sergeant Linton.

“This is a great result, quickly apprehending someone who thought it was acceptable to steal items that benefit our community. It reinforces the work our staff are doing to target offending and hold offenders accountable in our area.”

Police would like to thank the members of the public who came forward with information and continue to encourage anyone who sees suspicious activity to report it.

The 23-year-old man has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear in court at a later date.

If you see any suspicious or unlawful activity, please contact Police immediately on 111 with as much information as you can safely gather.

Information can be provided in non-emergencies through 105 online or by phone, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/community-effort-brings-one-to-court-feilding/

Posted on

Attempted ram raid: Police make arrest and recover firearm

Source: New Zealand Police

A teenager’s failed bid to ram raid a Far North supermarket has tallied up into a list of serious charges.
Police responded after 2.40am yesterday following a burglary reported at the Memorial Avenue store in Kaikohe.
Mid/Far North Area Prevention Manager, Senior Sergeant Clem Armstrong, says the vehicle allegedly reversed into the supermarket before one of the offenders exited the vehicle.
“The offender attempted to break the glass but was unable to gain entry,” he says.
“When he noticed a security guard watching, he jumped back in the vehicle and fled the scene.”
Thanks to a quick-thinking witness noting down the number plate, Police were able to determine that the vehicle involved was stolen.
“A Police unit conducting area searches soon located the vehicle driving through Kaikohe,” Senior Sergeant Armstrong says.
“Officers signalled for the vehicle to stop, but it failed to do so and continued travelling at safe speeds.”
Police instead tracked the vehicle’s movements from a distance, as it continued south for around 70 kilometres towards Dargaville.
Armstrong says the vehicle came to a stop.
“The driver ran from the vehicle and the passenger attempted to flee but was caught by our staff,”
“On talking to the passenger, Police became aware that a sawn-off shotgun had been thrown from the vehicle during its travels.”
“Information was relayed to colleagues further north, and Police quickly retrieved the firearm from the roadside near Kaikohe.”
A 14-year-old male appeared in the Whangārei Youth Court yesterday.
He has been charged with burglary, intentional damage, unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, and unlawfully taking a motor vehicle.
Armstrong says efforts to locate the other offender are ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police on 105, quoting file number 260305/5389, or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111

ENDS
Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/attempted-ram-raid-police-make-arrest-and-recover-firearm/

Posted on

Building ties with Brazil

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand will continue to build its relationship with Brazil, Latin America’s most populous country, Foreign Minister Winston Peters says. 

“Our delegation’s visit to Brazil has highlighted a range of areas in which our two countries want to do more together, including agriculture, aviation, trade and investment, education and film collaboration.

“Brazil seriously matters to Latin America, and the world, and New Zealand will accordingly be investing more in our relationship here.

“In these uncertain and challenging times, it’s more important than ever that countries like Brazil and New Zealand, as mature, open democracies, work together closely.” 

 “Brazil is an influential player in global affairs, as the world’s eleventh largest economy in the world. That’s why New Zealand needs to be engaging frankly and at a senior political level with our Brazilian partners.”

 During his wide-ranging meetings with Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira and other Brazilian Ministers, Mr Peters discussed areas with potential for enhanced bilateral cooperation, highlighted our shared interests in the development of the Pacific Islands region, and exchanged views on major international issues including recent developments in Venezuela and Iran.

 Mr Peters also reconnected with Ambassador Celso Amorim, Chief Foreign Affairs Adviser to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Ambassador Amorim was Foreign Minister when Mr Peters last visited Brazil in 2007.

 Foreign Ministers Peters and Vieira signed an Audio-Visual Co-Production Agreement, which will deepen New Zealand and Brazil’s screen industry ties and create fresh opportunities for filmmakers on both sides.

 Minister Peters also signed a comprehensive Education Cooperation Arrangement with Brazil’s Acting Minister of Education Leonardo Barchini.

 “Brazil is our largest source of students from Latin America, and more New Zealand students and researchers have come to Brazil over the last decade than ever before. We want to see these positive trends continue, and this arrangement will further strengthen these ties.”

 While in Brazil, Mr Peters also delivered a keynote speech on New Zealand’s relationship with Latin America as well as attending with the New Zealand Parliamentary and business delegation a Business Showcase focused on New Zealand companies’ innovative products and services in the Brazilian market.

In the speech, Mr Peters said: “We see Latin America as an important partner in addressing major global challenges, including building climate resilience, and boosting food and energy security … Put simply, New Zealand cannot expect to be able to progress initiatives in the international arena without Latin American cooperation. Your region matters enormously for us.”

The New Zealand Parliamentary and business delegation – which has this week completed programmes in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil – travels tomorrow to Chile (Santiago and Rapa Nui) and then on to French Polynesia.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/06/building-ties-with-brazil/