Transport – Page 6 – MIL-OSI Export

In Auckland, northbound lanes were blocked on the South-Western Motorway, SH20, at Onehunga, on Sunday morning. Supplied/ NZTA traffic camera

Two people have died and others injured in crashes in Waikato, Auckland and Southland.

Waikato police said on Sunday morning a person died following a single-vehicle crash on Howden Road, to the west of Hamilton city in Temple View. The crash happened about 8:30pm on Saturday.

Meanwhile, blocked lanes on Auckland’s Southwestern Motorway at Onehunga were reopened by 9:30am Sunday, after a collision earlier in the morning that had prompted police to direct northbound drivers to take another route.

Two vehicles were involved in the crash on the State Highway 20 motorway, police said.

One person was killed and two others moderately injured.

Crashes in Southland also reported

In Southland, Winding Creek Road was blocked following a single-vehicle crash between midnight Saturday and 1am Sunday.

Police said injuries were reported, and the Serious Crash Unit was advised.

“Motorists should avoid the road as emergency services work the scene or delay travel. The road is expected to be blocked for most of the day,” they said on Sunday

And Invercargill’s Leet Street was closed following a single-vehicle crash about 3am on Sunday.

“The Serious Crash Unit has been advised, and the road is expected to remain closed for most of the day while emergency services work at the scene,” police said.

“Diversions are in place, and motorists should account for extra travel time.”

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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/2026/03/22/multiple-crashes-block-lanes-two-dead-others-hurt/

March 22, 2026

Mahurangi oyster farmers call for more transparency on Watercare’s compensation calculations

Source: Radio New Zealand

Mahurangi Oysters owner Jim Aitken. Nick Monro

A group of North Auckland oyster farmers are calling for more transparency on how Watercare came to its final calculation on compensation over a sewage spill into the Mahurangi River last year, that contaminated tens of thousands of oysters during the businesses’ peak season.

Wastewater poured into the Mahurangi River for over 17 hours, after a power surge tripped up the pumps at Watercare’s Warkworth Street wastewater plant in late October.

Reviews found that a faulty surge protection component at the plant meant the pumps could not restart, and a critical overflow alarm that was not working had delayed the discovery of the overflow.

Watercare estimated that half of the 1200 cubic metres of overflow went into the Mahurangi River, while the remaining was contained to the plant.

It announced on Thursday its last tranche of compensation payment – $750,000 – for Mahurangi oyster famers and the wider aquaculture industry, which came on top of the $2 million already paid to eight affected oyster farms.

It said part of the $750,000 was for a ninth oyster farmer who made a subsequent claim, and part of it would go towards Aquaculture New Zealand (AQNZ) for it to distribute to all impacted oyster farmers.

AQNZ, representing the affected farmers, said the “full and final settlement” did not cover lost income, cancelled sales, reputational harm and ongoing disruption to production.

An AQNZ spokesperson said the organisation was offered half a million in the final round of compensation, but had not accepted the money yet, as it felt Watercare had not made it clear how that money should be used.

Its CEO Teena Hale-Pennington said in a statement that farmers needed to see how Watercare assessed the losses and reached those final figures.

“At this stage, neither AQNZ nor individual farmers have received the independent assessment findings for their farms, nor information outlining the assumptions used in Watercare’s assessment.

“Without access to this material, farmers are unable to fully understand how assessments were undertaken or how conclusions were reached,” she said.

Meanwhile, Watercare maintained that its processes were robust.

“We commissioned an independent loss assessment to understand the financial impact of the October event on oyster farmers, resulting in the farms being shut down by MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) during a critical part of their harvesting season.

“This process has informed Watercare’s approach to resolving the claims,” said its chief operating officer Mark Bourne, who added that the total compensation covered the losses attributed to the event.

Watercare chief operating officer Mark Bourne. Jessie Chiang

Hale-Pennington said it was frustrating that Watercare’s decision had been described as final, without the agreement of those most affected.

Tim Aitken, whose family business – Mahurangi Oysters – lost a large portion of its 80,000 dozen of oysters following the event, said they had been treated “like muppets” by Watercare.

“They haven’t entered into the conversation in a transparent way, they’ve treated us quite badly, I believe,” he said.

Aitken said he and other oyster farmers have handed Watercare five years’ worth of income and expenditure, in the hope of entering into a transparent negotiation.

Aitken said none of Watercare’s assessors had chatted with him in person about how they came to those compensation figures.

He said the $200,000 he received in compensation was just enough to cover staff wages.

Aitken said the reputational damage and ongoing impacts such as the loss of clients, were not being factored into the compensation.

“We sell weekly to chefs, and we sell fresh oysters, so everytime we get closed we lose a chef, we lose a restaurant because we can’t guarantee supply.

“Our business right now is hanging on, but only just,” he said.

Aitken said these days, they were struggling to sell oysters due to the lost trust by their clients.

“People now talk to us and say ‘we don’t wanna buy your oysters, they’re the ones that are in the shit harbour’.”

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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/2026/03/22/mahurangi-oyster-farmers-call-for-more-transparency-on-watercares-compensation-calculations/

March 22, 2026

Cancer researcher celebrates double milestone at EIT Tairāwhiti graduation

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

50 seconds ago

Jordon Lima (Ngāti Porou, Te Aitanga-a-Hauiti, Ngāpuhi) took to the stage twice at EIT Tairāwhiti’s graduation ceremony on Friday – first to address the graduates as guest speaker, then to join her fellow graduates to receive her New Zealand Diploma in Te Reo Māori.

The 28-year-old completed the Level 5 Rumaki (full-immersion) Diploma at EIT while simultaneously finishing a PhD in Biomedical Sciences through Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka (the University of Otago).

Jordon said being asked to speak at the ceremony came as a surprise but was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on her journey.

EIT graduate and guest speaker Jordon Lima with her grandparents Tangi and Pete Kelleher.

In her address, she encouraged graduates to pursue further study no matter what stage of life, drawing on the statistic that the average age for Māori students completing a doctorate is 48.

“At the time I heard that, when I was starting my doctorate, I was not even half of that age! Studying for me was about curiosity and pursuing a passion – something anyone can do at any age.”

Jordon graduated with a Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences with Honours at the University of Otago in 2020. Last month, she defended her PhD in Biochemistry and Māori Studies at the Mātai Medical Research Institute in Gisborne.

Her doctoral research examined how circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) – cancer-specific DNA detectable in the blood – could improve cancer screening and outcomes for Tairāwhiti communities.

Using a Kaupapa Māori approach to Biomedical Sciences, the project required close partnership with the communities her research was designed to benefit.

Her research is deeply personal, having lost several whānau members to cancer over the years, including her Aunty Hariata Green, who passed away in 2022 and before then, her Nanny Pōrua and Papa Joseph Green, who were all reo Māori teachers in Gisborne.

Jordon Lima addressed the crowd at EIT Tairāwhiti’s graduation ceremony on Friday.

“Aunty had been complaining of pain for ages before she was even diagnosed, and when she was, it was stage four. That was my turning point to design technologies that are actually going to be used by our people. I wanted to focus on empowerment in healthcare and do something with te reo to whakamana the people that we lost.”

Born in Tairāwhiti and raised in Christchurch, Jordon returned to her birthplace during the latter stages of her PhD to deepen her understanding of the tikanga, reo and kawa of the region.

“It felt wrong to write about it from anywhere else but here.”

Having not grown up with te reo Māori, Jordon turned to Te Whatukura at EIT, where she said the kōkā Barbie and kōkā Ange’s knowledge of her whakapapa made it feel like a place she belonged.

“As soon as I moved home and started learning our histories and mātauranga, I actually felt safe. They knew a lot about my whakapapa that I wanted to know. It was a beautiful space to be in.”

Jordon said studying at EIT alongside her PhD was one of the most rewarding parts of her academic journey. She described the rumaki environment as transformative – learning through stories, waiata and games in a way that reminded her of what it would have been like if she had gone to kōhanga reo.

She submitted her thesis midway through last year, returning for the second half of the programme able to fully immerse herself in her reo studies.

“It was hectic. I would start early in the morning, do work on my PhD, go to class from nine until three, and then stay on campus writing my thesis until I was basically kicked out when the building closed.”

Jordon said the kōkā at Te Whatukura were instrumental in her journey, not only as teachers but as connectors to her whakapapa. Kōkā Barbie, who is connected to Jordon’s whakapapa, gifted her a whakapapa booklet that contributed to an entire rewrite of her doctoral thesis.

The rumaki environment also helped her build confidence in te reo Māori, which she had never had before.

“It was super fulfilling to learn about the tikanga, reo and kawa of Tairāwhiti. When I first moved home, I didn’t understand anything that was being said on the paepae, but towards the end of my reo classes, I realised that I’ve actually learned heaps of reo just from being spoken to all day.”

She said that confidence is now central to her work. “It’s still quite rare to see scientists who can also kōrero Māori. Being able to go into the community and talk about science in reo is something I’m really excited about.”

Since completing her PhD, Jordon has been awarded the 2025 Otago Health Sciences Māori Postdoctoral Fellowship, through which she is establishing a molecular biology laboratory in Tairāwhiti capable of conducting blood-based cancer detection tests.

Jordon will formally graduate with her PhD in May this year. And she hasn’t ruled out one day completing the Bachelor of Arts (Māori) at EIT.

“I don’t know where I would find the time right now. But I’d love to do that one day.”

Tairāwhiti Campus Executive Director Tracey Tangihaere said: “I suggested Jordon as guest speaker due to her academic achievement, but also her desire to succeed in Māori health outcomes while being culturally grounded”.

“Having the life experience and stronger cultural skills, such as te reo, helps in communities like ours. Jordon has significant drive and passion. She’s a wonderful role model for us all.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/cancer-researcher-celebrates-double-milestone-at-eit-tairawhiti-graduation/

March 22, 2026

Global flavours on display at EIT Taste of Cultures Day

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

2 days ago

Taste of Cultures Day brought students and staff together at the EIT Hawke’s Bay Campus this week, as food and performances highlighted the diversity of the community.

Ten cuisines were on offer, from French and Nepalese to Māori, Pacifica and Sri Lankan.

Students, staff and whānau attended a Taste of Cultures Day at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale on Wednesday.

Flags from around the world lined the campus, while cultural performances added to the atmosphere.

International Student Support Officer Song Sim said the event was a valuable way to bring people together.

“It is a really good opportunity to learn about the diversity of many cultures on campus. The best way of doing this is through food and performances.”

EIT Student Support Services Manager Sonya Aifai said the event also fostered a strong sense of connection.

“The Taste of Cultures Day is an event that brings everyone together on the Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale in a fun way to experience the different cultures that make up EIT,” she said.

Joy Capila with Jeremy Nacar and Anne Margarette Zausa Nacar.

“It has an amazing atmosphere, sharing food, dance and collegiality.”

Among those taking part was Master of Nursing Science student Anne Margarette Zausa Nacar, who moved to New Zealand from the Philippines in July last year with her husband Jeremy.

Anne said it was her first time participating in the event and described the experience as rewarding.

“It’s a good opportunity and experience. I’m really happy that we get to share our delicacies with different cultures. It’s lovely seeing people enjoying the food.”

Bachelor of Viticulture and Wine student Khageswori Budapal also took part for the first time, serving momos inspired by her Nepalese background.

Te Ūranga Waka performed kapa haka at EIT’s Taste of Cultures Day.

Having started at EIT in 2023, Khageswori said she wanted to make the most of her final year.

“This is my last year, and I want to participate in every event so I can make memories.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/global-flavours-on-display-at-eit-taste-of-cultures-day/

March 22, 2026

Fuel price strains send public transport numbers skyrocketing

Source: Radio New Zealand

File photo. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Public transport is experiencing a boom, with commuters flooding onboard while fuel costs soar, and passenger numbers set to tumble.

Last week 91 octane petrol had risen 55 cents a litre since the beginning of the Iran war, with diesel up 90 cents in the same time, hitting personal and commercial budgets amid an existing cost-of-living crunch. And a string of commuters in the main centres told RNZ they were turning to public transport to help cut costs.

$4 a litre 91 petrol is coming, but take care with data showing it’s here in main centres

Passengers numbers have grown for both buses and trains in Wellington, the Greater Wellington Regional council says.

Prior to this year, there had been a six percent decrease in public transport use year-on-year. But now, both the price of fuel and ongoing major traffic disruption from construction on Lower Hutt’s RiverLink project had turned that around.

It means the Wellington Region is expected to have its highest day ever for public transport use in the next couple of weeks.

Watch: Seven weeks worth of fuel stocks in NZ – finance minister says

The steep trajectory of fuel costs meant the cost of driving 15 kilometres in Auckland reached nearly double the cost of taking public transport last week, Auckland Transport said – without parking costs factored in.

And the Auckland public transport uptick has already reached records, with Tuesday the busiest day since 2019, councillor Richard Hills said.

Passenger numbers were seven percent higher than the previous Tuesday, and had 7000 more trips than the previous busiest day.

“It’s great to see more people choosing public transport and trying it out,” Hills said.

Wellington public transport challenges levelling as demand increases

Wellington “has had a hard road for public transport patronage over the last couple of years”, said the regional council’s transport committee chairperson Ros Connolly.

“We’ve had a number of headwinds, you know. We’ve had working from home, we’ve had quite high numbers of unemployment in the Wellington region, and the cost of living has all meant that our public transport numbers haven’t been as high as we would have liked them to be. So year-on-year we’ve had about a 6 percent year-on-year decrease.

But in recent weeks, “that number has absolutely turned around,” she said.

“We’ve definitely seen the impact of higher fuel prices on people’s transport decisions …So unlike Auckland, we haven’t quite topped our highest day since 2019, but we can say we are getting close, and we’re confident that in the next fortnight, if things continue to track the way they have, that we will see Wellington experience that record number.”

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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/2026/03/22/fuel-price-strains-send-public-transport-numbers-skyrocketing/

March 22, 2026

Six dead in 24 hours after multiple crashes around NZ

Source: Radio New Zealand

In Auckland, northbound lanes were blocked on the South-Western Motorway, SH20, at Onehunga, on Sunday morning. Supplied/ NZTA traffic camera

Six people have died in 24 hours in crashes in Waikato, Taranaki, Auckland, Southland and Waiohau.

Southland

One person has died in Invercargill after fleeing police.

Shortly before 3am, police signalled for a vehicle to stop on Kelvin Street, Invercargill, but the driver fled the scene.

Police said it was not pursued, but found the vehicle crashed at the intersection of Leet and Kelvin Streets a short time later.

One person died at the scene.

The road was closed while the Serious Crash Unit examined the scene and the matter will also be referred to the IPCA

Any witnesses to the crash, or anybody who has CCTV in the vicinity of Wellesley Avenue, Avenal Street or Kelvin Street, have been asked to get in touch with police.

Another person died in a single-vehicle crash along Winding Creek Road in Southland overnight.

Emergency services were called to the rural road about 12.40am.

One other person suffered moderate injuries.

Waikato

Waikato police said on Sunday morning a person died following a single-vehicle crash on Howden Road, to the west of Hamilton city in Temple View. The crash happened about 8:30pm on Saturday.

Auckland

Meanwhile, blocked lanes on Auckland’s Southwestern Motorway at Onehunga were reopened by 9:30am Sunday, after a collision earlier in the morning. Two vehicles were involved in the crash on the State Highway 20 motorway, police said.

One person was killed and two others moderately injured.

Stratford

Early this evening, police said one person has died after a single vehicle crash on SH43 / Forgotten World Highway in Stratford this morning.

The crash was reported to police at 11.30am, and the road remains closed.

Waiohau

A sixth person died after a single-vehicle crash on Galatea Road, Waiohau, at about 5.15pm.

The sole occupant of the vehicle was found dead.

Police said the road was closed and diversions are in place.

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/2026/03/22/six-dead-in-24-hours-after-multiple-crashes-around-nz/

March 22, 2026

Keep yourself, family, and friends safe from life-threatening listeriosis

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is sharing some simple guidance to prevent people getting a rare but life-threatening foodborne illness.

“Although listeriosis is rare in New Zealand, vulnerable people die of this preventable disease every year, so we want to share some practical steps people can take at home to avoid getting sick,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle.

Listeriosis is caused by eating or drinking food that has high levels of Listeria, a bacterium that is widespread in the environment. Listeria is invisible, has no odour and, unlike most bacteria, can continue to grow when food is refrigerated.

“The most recent Annual report concerning Foodborne Diseases in New Zealand shows that there was a single death from listeria in 2024, down from 6 in 2022 and 7 in 2023.

Annual report concerning Foodborne Diseases in New Zealand [PDF, 2.6 MB]

“But even one death is one too many, so that’s why we are continuing our efforts to get those most at risk – pregnant women and older people – to better understand the dangers of listeriosis and what to do to decrease them.”

Infections in healthy adults are unlikely to be severe, but listeriosis during pregnancy can cause miscarriage, premature labour, stillbirth, or disease in the newborn baby.

As you age – and particularly over 65 – your immune system gets weaker. This means foods you safely ate in the past may no longer be safe for you to eat.

“Some people may not be aware of this. So, we’re highlighting higher-risk foods while sharing some food-safety advice on how to make them safe to eat,” says Mr Arbuckle.

Higher-risk foods include:

ready-to-eat meat products (like deli meats and pâtés)
smoked seafood (especially cold smoked fish)
soft cheeses (like brie, camembert, and paneer)
unpasteurised dairy products (like raw milk and cheese)
leafy greens and bagged salad (like mesclun and spinach).

For a fuller list see our webpage:

Listeria infection: symptoms and advice

To lower the risk of getting listeriosis, you can:

choose safer foods
heat food to piping hot (over 75°C) before eating
when eating raw fruit and vegetables, wash and dry thoroughly first
only eat food that was recently prepared
refrigerate leftovers quickly and avoid eating leftovers that won’t be reheated
wash and dry your hands thoroughly and follow good food hygiene practices.

“New Zealand Food Safety requires food businesses to manage Listeria in the processing environment and to have strict measures in place to eliminate its presence in products,” says Mr Arbuckle.

“If something goes wrong, we support food businesses with their consumer-level food recalls. In 2024, there were 4 consumer recalls due to the possible presence of Listeria.

“But there’s also something you can do to protect yourself and others. If you make or buy food for vulnerable people, or are vulnerable yourself, please sign up to our food recall alerts.

“Also look out for our current awareness campaign so you can share it with people who may not know the life-threatening risks. Let’s work together to not lose another person to listeriosis.”

Find out more

Food and pregnancy

Food safety advice for over-65s

Food safety advice for people with low immunity

Food safety in the home [PDF, 1.1 MB]

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/keep-yourself-family-and-friends-safe-from-life-threatening-listeriosis/

March 22, 2026

Fishery officers do thousands of recreational catch inspections throughout summer – overall compliance 94%

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Fishery officers throughout New Zealand did almost 13,000 recreational catch inspections over summer and found most people followed the rules, with compliance at about 94% across the country. 

In the Auckland region, fishery officers did 5,806 inspections between December and the end of February, finding 361 instances of non-compliance with the rules. Many fishers received warnings and more than 85 infringements were issued. Fishery officers are still making enquiries into more than 25 cases. 

Fisheries New Zealand director of fisheries compliance, Steve Ham says most problems people ran into with the rules – such as undersize or excess fish – when minor breaches were found, education was provided.  

“In saying that we will prosecute when required. For example, we recently prosecuted an Auckland man for selling recreational fish. This man was banned by the court from all fishing for 3 years.”

Mr Ham says set nets remain a focus for fishery officers.

“We are confiscating illegal set nets regularly. Recently we found 3 set nets tied together, covering 160 metres in length. 

“Some fishers are just blatantly breaking the rules and while most people will face a $250 fine, in more serious situations, the courts can issue more severe fines.”

Fishery officers also find nets without markings or buoys displaying contact details, which are also a hazard to other water users.

Some of the seizures by fishery officers included finding a car battery being used as an anchor for a set net, which is environmentally irresponsible, a decoy duck used to hide a set net, and staked set nets leaving fish dead and out of the water.

In the Wellington region, 2,435 recreational inspections were done, with 192 instances of non-compliance. Most problems occurred with people taking too much or undersize pāua and crayfish. While a number of cases are still under enquiry, fishery officers also issued about 100 infringement notices.

“While compliance was generally good, our fishery officers are still catching people breaking particularly the pāua rules. While our officers do a lot of education work with people on the rules, in some cases, where people are deliberately taking too much pāua, they can expect a fine. Or, if it’s more serious, such as selling it, we will put the matter before the court,” Mr Ham says. 

In the South Island, fishery officers did 4,488 recreational inspections during summer, recording 261 instances of non-compliance. Many of these resulted in warnings, and 93 infringements were issued. Fishery officers are still making enquiries into about 25 cases.

“Fishery officers worked extremely hard throughout summer and while they provided education to a lot of people on rules, they still found too many people with too much pāua, crayfish, and undersize blue cod or blue cod being landed in an illegal state,” Mr Ham says.

“Blue cod should always be landed whole or gutted, or in some areas headed and gutted, and it should never be used as bait, which we have found is still the case in both Southland and Otago from time to time. This behaviour threatens the sustainability of the blue cod fisheries. 

“There is plenty of information available so that everyone can easily familiarise themselves with the rules.  

“One of the best things you can do before going fishing is to download the free NZ Fishing Rules mobile app because it will provide you with the latest rules for the area you intend to fish – including closures and gear restrictions. This should be as essential to your fishing kit as your physical gear,” Mr Ham says.

NZ Fishing Rules mobile app

Everything recreational fishers need to know about set netting regulations can be found here:

Set Net – Code of Practice [PDF, 22 MB]

We encourage people to report any suspected illegal activity through the Ministry for Primary Industries’ 0800 4 POACHER line (0800 476 224). 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/fishery-officers-do-thousands-of-recreational-catch-inspections-throughout-summer-overall-compliance-94/

March 22, 2026

Shellfish biotoxin warning for Canterbury

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is advising the public not to collect or consume shellfish gathered from the northern side of Banks Peninsula due to the risk of paralytic shellfish toxins causing illness, says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director general Vincent Arbuckle.

The warning extends from New Brighton to the northern side of Hickory Bay. As the weather changes, this bloom could spread wider.

“Do not gather and eat shellfish from this area because anyone doing so could get sick. Affected shellfish include bivalve shellfish such as mussels, oysters, tuatua, pipi, toheroa, cockles and scallops, as well as pūpū (cat’s eyes) and Cook’s turban.

“It’s important to know that cooking the shellfish does not remove the toxin, so shellfish from this area should not be eaten.”

A visible bloom at the head of Port Levy has extremely high numbers of paralytic shellfish toxin producing algae.

“We are monitoring this algal bloom in Port Levy and the wider area. This algae, called Alexandrium pacificum, produces a dangerous toxin and when shellfish filter-feed, these toxins can accumulate in their gut and flesh. Generally, the more algae there are in the water, the more toxic the shellfish get.”

Symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning usually appear within 10 minutes to 3 hours of eating and may include:

numbness and a tingling (prickly feeling) around the mouth, face, hands, and feet
difficulty swallowing or breathing
dizziness and headache
nausea and vomiting
diarrhoea
paralysis and respiratory failure and, in severe cases, death.

Shellfish biotoxin alerts

“Pāua, crab and crayfish may still be eaten if the gut has been completely removed prior to cooking, as toxins accumulate in the gut. If the gut is not removed, its contents could contaminate the meat during the cooking process.

“Finfish are not affected by this public health warning, but we advise gutting the fish and discarding the liver before cooking,” says Mr Arbuckle.

New Zealand Food Safety has had no notifications of associated illness.

Anyone who becomes ill after eating shellfish from an area where a public health warning has been issued should phone Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention immediately. Please also contact your nearest public health unit and keep any leftover shellfish in case it can be tested.

“New Zealand Food Safety is monitoring shellfish in the region and will notify the public of any changes to the situation,” says Mr Arbuckle.

Commercially harvested shellfish – sold in shops and supermarkets or exported – is subject to strict water and flesh monitoring programmes by New Zealand Food Safety to ensure they are safe to eat.

Find out more

Shellfish biotoxin alert webpage

Subscribe to shellfish biotoxins to receive email alerts

See signage in the affected area

Podcast about shellfish contamination

Collecting Shellfish and Keeping Them Safe [PDF, 3.2 MB]

Causes and symptoms of toxic shellfish poisoning

About toxic algal blooms

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/shellfish-biotoxin-warning-for-canterbury/

March 22, 2026

Emborg Emmentaler cheese recalled due to possible presence of Listeria

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New Zealand Food Safety is supporting Goodfood Group Limited in its recall of a specific batch of Emborg Emmentaler cheese (200g) due to the possible presence of Listeria.

“The concern with this product is that it may contain Listeria, a foodborne bacterium that could make you sick,” says New Zealand Food Safety deputy director-general Vincent Arbuckle.

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

Emborg Emmentaler 200g with a best before 05.11.26 is affected by this recall.

The affected product was imported from Germany and sold at supermarkets nationwide.

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

Emborg Emmentaler Cheese

“Listeriosis infection can be serious among vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women and their unborn babies, newborns, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems,” says Mr Arbuckle.

“Listeria differs to other harmful bacteria in that it can grow at refrigerator temperatures, so you have to be very careful about the foods you eat, or provide to others, if you or they are in a vulnerable group. 

“It is particularly dangerous during pregnancy because it can cause miscarriage, premature labour or stillbirth, and infection in the new-born baby.”

Listeriosis infection in healthy adults is unlikely to be severe, at most causing mild diarrhoea and flu-like symptoms within a few days of eating contaminated food. For those in the vulnerable groups, it usually takes 2 to 3 weeks – or even longer – before symptoms appear.

If you have consumed any of this product and are concerned for your health, contact your health professional, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for free advice.

New Zealand Food Safety has not received any notifications of associated illness.

The products have been removed from store shelves and have not been re-exported.

The products under recall were identified through routine testing, and New Zealand Food Safety has not received any reports of associated illness.

“As is our usual practice, New Zealand Food Safety will work with Goodfood Group Limited to understand how the contamination 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.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/emborg-emmentaler-cheese-recalled-due-to-possible-presence-of-listeria/

March 22, 2026

Fatal crash, Leet Street, Invercargill

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Inspector Mike Bowman, Southland Area Commander:

One person has died in a single vehicle crash early this morning.

Shortly before 3am, Police signalled for a vehicle to stop on Kelvin Street, Invercargill.

The driver failed to stop, and the vehicle fled. It was not pursued.

A short time later, the vehicle was discovered crashed at the intersection of Leet and Kelvin Streets.

Sadly, one person was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The road will remain closed as the Serious Crash Unit examines the scene and the circumstances of the crash.

Police will continue to investigate the matter and are asking for the public’s assistance.

The matter will also be referred to the IPCA, as is standard procedure in cases like this.

If you witnessed the crash, or have CCTV in the vicinity of Wellesley Avenue, Avenal Street or Kelvin Street, please get in touch with Police.

You can also make a report online on 105. Click ‘Make a report’.

Please use the reference number 260322/6911.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/22/fatal-crash-leet-street-invercargill/

March 22, 2026

Multiple crashes block lanes, people injured

Source: Radio New Zealand

Traffic was blocked in northbound lanes on the South-Western Motorway, SH20, at Onehunga, on Sunday morning. Supplied/ NZTA traffic camera

A crash has blocked lanes on Auckland’s Southwestern Motorway at Onehunga, and northbound drivers are being warned to take another route.

Two vehicles were involved in the crash on State Highway 20, police said.

One person had serious injuries and two were moderately injured.

“Motorists are advised to avoid the northbound motorway at this time, or delay travel,” they said.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said the Queenstown Road offramp was closed as a result of the crash. Motorists should instead use the Hillsborough offramp.

“Allow extra time for diversions. Please follow the directions of emergency services,” NZTA said.

In Southland, Winding Creek Road in Southland was blocked following a single-vehicle crash between midnight and 1am.

Police said injuries were reported, and the Serious Crash Unit was advised.

“Motorists should avoid the road as emergency services work the scene or delay travel. The road is expected to be blocked for most of the day.”

And Invercargill’s Leet Street was closed following a single-vehicle crash around 3am.

“The Serious Crash Unit has been advised, and the road is expected to remain closed for most of the day while emergency services work at the scene,” police said.

“Diversions are in place, and motorists should account for extra travel time.”

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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/2026/03/22/multiple-crashes-block-lanes-people-injured/

March 21, 2026

Super Rugby Pacific: Crusaders crush Moana in Albany

Source: Radio New Zealand

Beware a scorned Crusaders side.

The defending champions avenged last year’s shock loss to Moana Pasifka in ruthless style, crushing the cellar dwellers 50-21 in Albany.

Up by just three at the break, the Crusaders ran riot in the second, producing some scintillating running rugby in the rout.

Moana lost Julian Savea early to what looked like a broken arm before the Crusaders opened the scoring, Braydon Ennor showing tremendous strength to carry three defenders with him across the line.

Sevu Reece went in next to stretch his lead as Super Rugby’s most prolific try scorer, finishing a scorcher for the visitors.

Sparked by a Will Jordan injection, the fullback offloaded infield and from there it was a beautiful exchange of passes, Chay Fihaki with the last one to Reece.

Moana pulled one back as Patrick Pellegrini found a deft offload for Lalomilo Lalomilo who broke clear and linked with Joel Lam to score against his old side.

Replacement Tevita Ofa made it two in quick succession to give Moana the lead, the winger showing great gas to get on the outside of his opposite.

The Crusader’s quickly restored their lead though, Cooper Grant sending a pinpoint kick across for Chay Fihaki to pouch and plant to give them a narrow 17-14 half-time lead.

The second half however, belonged to the Crusaders.

Fainga’anuku kicked off the scoring spree with a mesmeric fourty metre run turning defenders inside out.

George Bell barged his way over for back to back, to really put things out of reach, before debutant Kurtis Macdonald scored with his first touch from a Fihaki cut out ball.

Fihaki capped his stellar night with a second as he exploded through the line and skinned the final man to score his second, Moana getting a late consolation courtesy of an intercept for Siaosi Nginingini.

See how the match unfolded here.

Team lists

Moana:

1. Tito Tuipulotu 2. Millennium Sanerivi 3. Atu Moli 4. Tom Savage 5. Allan Craig 6. Miracle Faiilagi (c) 7. Niko Jones 8. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa 9. Joel Lam 10. Patrick Pellegrini 11. Glen Vaihu 12. Julian Savea 13. Lalomilo Lalomilo 14. Tevita Latu 15. William Havili

Bench: 16. Mamoru Harada 17. Abraham Pole 18. Chris Apoua 19. Veikoso Poloniati 20. Dominic Ropeti 21. Siaosi Nginingini 22. Jackson Garden-Bachop 23. Tevita Ofa.

“We’re in search of playing our game and hopefully we can get it..” – Head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga.

Crusaders:

1. Finlay Brewis 2. George Bell 3. Fletcher Newell 4. Tahlor Cahill 5. Jamie Hannah 6. Ethan Blackadder (vc) 7. Johnny Lee 8. Christian Lio-Willie 9. Noah Hotham 10. Cooper Grant (debut) 11. Sevu Reece 12. Dallas McLeod 13. Braydon Ennor 14. Chay Fihaki 15. Will Jordan (c)

Bench: 16. Manumaua Letiu 17. George Bower 18. Seb Calder 19. Antonio Shalfoon 20. Xavier Saifoloi 21. Kyle Preston 22. Leicester Fainga’anuku 23. Kurtis Macdonald (debut).

“We’re going week by week. The aim is to back up a win with a win, build our consistency, prepare well, and hit the ground running. We haven’t had the quickest starts, so doing those things will make it very satisfying.” – Crusaders coach Rob Penney.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/21/super-rugby-pacific-crusaders-crush-moana-in-albany/

March 21, 2026

New plan approved for Auckland’s future

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland Council’s Policy and Planning Committee today approved new changes to the city’s planning rules to better protect people and property from floods and other hazards, while focusing more new homes in safer, well-connected places near jobs and public transport.

The decision sees the current planning requirements – called Plan Change 78 – withdrawn and replaced with a new plan change for Aucklanders to have their say on, through public submissions.

The new plan change – Plan Change 120 – will introduce stronger rules to steer buildings away from high-risk areas for flooding, coastal erosion, and inundation. This includes more restrictive consenting rules for new builds and, in the worst affected areas, limiting development to single houses.

Mayor Wayne Brown says today’s decision will future-proof Auckland.

“We need a physically and financially resilient future. This will allow us to downzone flood-prone land and build up in areas that make sense—like around transport corridors, walkable catchments, and where we have invested significantly in infrastructure, in water pipes, roads, and train lines. It’s really not rocket science.

“Today’s decision allows for a rational discussion on how and where we live, based on fact. The public will get to have their say through hearings, submissions and through their local representatives. I look forward to hearing the public debate,” says Mayor Brown.

Addressing flood and natural hazard risks

Councillor Richard Hills, chair of the Policy and Planning Committee, says the decision gives Auckland a simpler path to safer, better-connected housing choices while meeting government requirements for capacity.

“In 2023, Auckland experienced one of its most significant natural disasters. The floods devastated our communities, causing billions of dollars of damage, and most shattering of all, loss of life. 

“Aucklanders are clear that they want stronger rules to limit development in high flood risk areas. We started seeking the legal ability to do this immediately after the 2023 floods, with law changes being made in August this year.

“Today’s decision lets us better protect people and property from flooding and other natural hazards more quickly than we could under Plan Change 78, while focusing more homes where housing demand and public transport access are highest.

“I encourage all Aucklanders to give their feedback and be part of shaping this proposal,” he says.

Better access to existing infrastructure

Plan Change 120 will see the removal of blanket rules allowing three storey housing on most residential sites across Auckland. Instead, it focuses homes near town centres with easy access to jobs, services and fast, frequent public transport. This follows the council’s compact city approach.

“This proposal gives more people better access to transport infrastructure that all Aucklanders have paid for. With $5.5 billion invested in City Rail Link, trains will be running every few minutes carrying tens of thousands of passengers from next year – people should be able to live and work nearby. It helps get the best return on public investment.

“It’s not just about the number of homes, it’s about whether they are in locations that can meet people’s needs and make it easier to reach they services and facilities they use every day. Strong evidence shows Aucklanders want to live near jobs, public transport, shops, and services. That’s where housing demand is strongest.” says Cr Hills.

The law behind Plan Change 78 did not allow the council to introduce more restrictive zoning in high-risk hazard areas or opt out of blanket rules allowing three-storey homes across Auckland – including areas with limited transport connections, until the law changed in August 2025.

Plan Change 120 creates capacity for approximately two million homes, as did Plan Change 78, and as is required by central government. This does not mean two million homes will be built. Instead, it provides a wide choice of locations for homes, and housing types, to meet long-term market demands.

What changes under Plan Change 120?

Plan Change 120 will:

introduce stronger planning rules in high-risk flood and natural hazard areas, quickly and simply, reducing future risk to people and property.
remove blanket three-storey housing rules (known as the Medium Density Residential Standards) across almost every residential area across Auckland.
focus new homes around the city centre, town centres, rapid transit stops such as train stations and the Northern and Eastern Busways, and frequent bus routes. This includes the $5.5 billion investment in the City Rail Link.
meet government directions for increased building heights around five key Western Line stations: 15 storeys at Maungawhau, Kingsland and Morningside; and 10 storeys at Baldwin Avenue and Mt Albert stations.
give infrastructure providers a clearer picture of where growth is expected, compared to Plan Change 78. This helps them plan and prioritise future investment.

What happens next?

By 10 October 2025: The council will write to the Minister for the Environment seeking approval to notify the new replacement plan change.
30 October 2025: Public notification is expected, subject to the minister’s agreement.
3 November to 19 December 2025: Public submissions are expected to open, subject to the minister’s agreement.
Following submissions, public hearings will be held by an Independent Hearings Panel.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/21/new-plan-approved-for-aucklands-future/

March 21, 2026

Taxpayers invest $784K to new Rakaia River wetland to try lure salmon back

Source: Radio New Zealand

The small farming township of Rakaia’s river was once internationally-recognised for its abundant sea-run chinook salmon and other aquatic species, but population numbers have since drastically declined. Steve Terry

It’s hoped a new $1.7 million wetland in Mid Canterbury will improve the once-thriving salmon run in the Rakaia River.

For the past 70 years, Glenariffe Stream – considered a key salmon-spawning site in the braided river – has been diverted to drain farmland.

The stream contributed around 18 percent of the wild chinook salmon that returned to spawn in the river.

For the small farming township of Rakaia, south of Christchurch, its river was once internationally-recognised for its abundant sea-run chinook salmon and other aquatic species, but population numbers have since drastically declined.

Now, three large high country farms have retired hundreds of hectares of land to return the river’s eastern branch to its original course, pre-agricultural expansion.

Forty-four hectares of the wetland habitat have also been restored.

With Fish and Game the project lead, its North Canterbury project manager, Steve Terry, said [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/571617/fish-and-game-family-fishing-licences-to-undergo-changes-to-remove-historic-anomaly

protecting spawning habitat] was one of the few levers available to help the fishery recover.

“Salmon numbers are at historic lows not just in Canterbury but across New Zealand’s East Coast rivers, with unfavourable, warmer ocean conditions among the key drivers of decline.”

He said while the ocean and climate could not be controlled, the efforts would ensure that when salmon do return to the Rakaia to spawn, their offspring have the best possible habitat.

“Glenariffe Stream is one of the river’s most significant spawning tributaries, and for 70 years it simply wasn’t functioning as it should. Getting it back to its natural course is a major step forward for the fishery,” Terry said.

The McIntyre wetland project was named after the late James McIntyre, who bequeathed $550,000 to the project.

Meanwhile, taxpayers fronted $784,000 towards the three-year project under the Ministry for the Environment’s freshwater improvement fund.

Double Hill Station retired 77 hectares of wetlands and waterways, Redcliffes Station stopped farming on 59 hectares of wetlands and native scrub, and a 200-hectare QEII covenant protecting the Hydra Waters for Mount Algidus Station.

Distressed anglers were raising the alarm about the Rakaia’s abysmal fish stocks and degraded river quality and flow, and were currently limited to catching just one salmon.

The Rakaia River. Supplied

For the first time in 40 years, organisers of the annual Rakaia River Fishing competition did not weigh in any fish to allow the fishery to recover.

But Hunting and Fishing Minister James Meager said a range of options to help restore state of the fishery were being considered with Fish and Game.

“We have had some concerns over the stock of the fishery there in terms of sea-run salmon.”

But he said it was all about balancing the economic drivers with environmental outcomes.

Meager said a water conservation order in place here provided guardrails, so farmers could irrigate within safe environmental limits.

He said irrigators had high standards, and he hoped Resource Management Act reform would see consenting for water storage eased.

“It’s all a balance though, of course, because we have to generate enough economic activity in the region, and we know that water is a big part of that in Mid-Canterbury, while balancing that off against the environmental outcomes that we want to achieve,” Meager said.

“So particularly for this project, it reaches a good balance.”

When asked if the economic drivers versus environmental impacts were unbalanced, he said he did not think so.

“If you look at the progress that’s been made over the past 10, 20, 30 years in terms of farming practice, in terms of the awareness of our activity and the impact on the environment, I actually think we’ve come a long way.”

Meanwhile, environmental critics including fish veterinarian Peter Trolove said salmon returns were excellent before the privatisation of public grazing runs, following the High Country tenure review.

Published back at the turn of the millennium, the Glenariffe stream’s tenure review warned that land‑use changes could worsen river sedimentation, water quality deterioration and habitat loss-issues.

The Salmon Anglers Association will hold a meeting about the future of the fishery in Christchurch on Thursday.

The wetland restoration was a partnership with landowners, the Canterbury regional council, Cawthron Institute, Manawa Energy, Rakaia River Fishing Promptions and QEII Trust.

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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/2026/03/21/taxpayers-invest-784k-to-new-rakaia-river-wetland-to-try-lure-salmon-back/

March 21, 2026

A new approach to city-fringe living quietly unfolds amid Grey Lynn villas

Source: Auckland Council

Cohaus, a 20-unit resident-led development on Surrey Crescent, shows what happens when architecture, community, and sustainability come together.

Grey Lynn is no stranger to tension between its historic villas and demand for new housing. Yet Cohaus has proven that intensification can be beautiful, respectful, and enriching. Its’ understated street presence conceals an inner world of courtyards, communal gardens, and light-filled apartments. The original villa on the site was retained and refurbished, anchoring the development in heritage while welcoming new life.

Architect and co-founder Thom Gill says this development is exactly what Auckland needs.

“Density doesn’t need to mean compromise. With the right design, we can add homes without losing the character people cherish. Cohaus proves that medium-density housing can lift a neighbourhood.”

Cohaus community designed housing development.

Auckland Council’s Team Leader Urban Design and Landscape Strategy Nicole Miller says, despite its consenting challenges at the time, Cohaus was designed in a way that reflects many of the qualities the council wants to see in medium density development into the future.

“While this project was developed within a co-housing framework, the outcomes, spatial qualities and benefits of living closer together with shared amenities aren’t limited to this model of development – it’s an approach to living that can be applied to many scenarios.”

Inside Cohaus, there’s a richness of life that goes beyond walls and floorplans. Families with toddlers share space with retirees. A communal laundry, guest flat, bike storage, and shared cars reduce costs while lowering environmental footprints. Gardens spill across the central courtyard, where neighbours swap vegetables as easily as stories. This mixed generation living keeps people close to schools, jobs, and transport, while also easing social isolation, a quiet benefit as Auckland ages.

Georgianne Griffiths and her family are residents of the complex, and she says living at Cohaus has exceeded her expectations.

“It’s a beautiful space and there is a real sense of community.

“One of the design elements that has worked well is to restrict parking of our six shared cars to the edge of the development. Without driveways and carparks at our front doors we can maximise our garden space, which has become the centre of our community, and create a place where kids of all ages can run free.”

During the build phase, by sharing resources and cutting out developer profit margins, residents could create high-quality homes for less. Each member had a hand in shaping the design, meaning spaces feel liveable and intuitive.

As Gill puts it, “This is about the future of how we live together. Not gated suburbs, not anonymous towers, but neighbourhoods where people know each other.”

For residents anxious about change, Cohaus is reassurance made real. It demonstrates that medium-density housing can sit comfortably in a historic suburb, enhance its character, and create a community that feels both modern and timeless. This is the kind of development that makes cities greener, more liveable, and more connected – exactly what Auckland needs now.

Read more about the design of the Cohaus development on the Auckland Design Manual.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/21/a-new-approach-to-city-fringe-living-quietly-unfolds-amid-grey-lynn-villas/

March 21, 2026

What Auckland’s new plan means for your neighbourhood

Source: Auckland Council

[embedded content]

Auckland Council is making changes to the Auckland Unitary Plan – the city’s rulebook for where and how new homes and buildings can be built.

These changes will see stronger protections against floods and other natural hazards and focus new homes in safer, well-connected places near shops, services, jobs and fast, frequent public transport.

Why are these changes happening?

The 2023 Auckland floods were a turning point for our region. As one of our most significant natural disasters, they devastated communities, caused billions in damage, and, most tragically, cost lives.

At the time, Auckland Council was part way through Plan Change 78, which intended to introduce rules set by the previous government to boost housing supply by allowing three homes of three storeys in most residential areas across Auckland.

However, the severe weather of 2023 made it clear that some areas are not suitable for new homes and that Auckland needed even stronger rules to better protect people in the most vulnerable areas. While Plan Change 78 proposed more housing by allowing three storey housing in most residential areas across Auckland, the legislation didn’t let the council limit building in high-risk flood areas.

What’s new

Following persistent advocacy from the council, in August 2025, the Government changed the law so the council could replace Plan Change 78 with a new version — Plan Change 120.

The proposed plan will introduce stronger rules to better protect communities from floods, coastal erosion and inundation. It will also enable more homes near rapid transit public transport stations, along frequent transport routes and around urban centres nearer to jobs, shops, and everyday services.

The changes propose to:

Introduce tougher consenting rules in flood risk areas to make new homes more resilient, and apply single house zoning in the most at-risk areas.
Focus new homes within walking distance to the city centre, urban centres, transport stops with fast and frequent services such as train stations and the Northern and Eastern Busways.
Remove the medium density residential standards and amend the standards for three-storey housing in the zone that allows for such housing in Auckland.
Meet Government requirements to provide an opportunity for the same total housing capacity as Plan Change 78.
Meet government directions, including increased building heights around five key Western Line stations: 15 storeys at Maungawhau, Kingsland and Morningside; and 10 storeys at Baldwin Avenue and Mt Albert stations, as well as identifying other areas where taller buildings could be enabled under this plan.
Allow more apartment buildings along a number of Auckland’s transport corridors with frequent bus services. Up to 6 storeys, around 200m back from the road.

Read: What You Need to Know – Proposed Changes to Auckland’s Planning Rules

What does this mean for my local area?

Over the next 30 years, Auckland could see more housing choices, such as apartments, terraced housing, and townhouses, near rapid and frequent transport routes, workplaces and urban centres.

This plan change allows higher density housing, but property owners and developers influence what actually happens based on market demand. Even in areas allowing apartments, there will still be a mix of housing types, due to the different choices landowners might make

This doesn’t mean local areas will change overnight. Development usually happens gradually, typically over decades. There can be limits to building heights and density where it may not be suitable and where it’s supported by good evidence, for example, to protect sites with coastal character.

Protecting against natural hazards

In high-risk flood or coastal areas, there will be tougher rules for new development. This will give the council stronger powers to decide whether development can go ahead and how much is appropriate.

This includes some parts of Eastern Beach, East Tāmaki, Manurewa, Māngere Bridge, Mt Roskill, Blockhouse Bay, Te Atatū Peninsula, Glen Eden, Browns Bay, and other suburbs.

More homes focused near urban centres and rapid public transport

Auckland’s largest centres could see more homes enabled within a 10-minute walk (about 800 metres) of Newmarket, Manukau, New Lynn, Sylvia Park, Botany, Papakura, Takapuna, Henderson, Albany, Westgate, and Drury.

This walking distance will also apply around train stations and stops along the Northern and Eastern Busways. It means opportunities for terraced housing or apartment buildings of 15, 10, or 6 storeys – with the building heights reflecting the demand for homes in the area, level of services and amenities available, and how easy access is to transport, jobs and services.

Other suburban centres could have more townhouses, apartments, and terraced housing of up to six storeys. This includes within around 400 metres of town centres like St Lukes, Northcote, and Onehunga, while a 200m distance is set for smaller local centres like Blockhouse Bay, Grey Lynn and Mairangi Bay.

This is based on how big each suburban centre is and how easy it is for people to get there by walking, cycling, or public transport, making it simpler for people to live nearby and travel to schools, parks, and workplaces.

For suburbs that are not inside walkable catchments, or town centre areas, there will be more Mixed Housing Suburban (allowing homes in a mix of 1- and 2-storey forms) and Mixed Housing Urban (allowing homes up to 3-storeys, including townhouses and terraced homes). The Single House zone will still be used where it makes sense.

Supporting transport and infrastructure

By focusing new homes near trains, busways and frequent bus routes, Plan Change 120 helps make better use of major public investments, such as the $5.5 billion City Rail Link.

It also helps infrastructure providers to plan and fund future infrastructure more efficiently by giving a clearer picture of where growth will happen.

Local area breakdown

Below you’ll find a breakdown of which areas are rezoned for Terraced Housing and Apartment Buildings across Auckland, so you can see what’s being upzoned in your local area.

Note: Some places will be in two or more overlapping areas – for instance, the area around a town centre might also be in the walkable catchment for a transport link. When this happens, the higher density and heights will apply.

For example, if some streets are identified for both 6-storey housing around a town centre, and 10-storey housing as part of train station walkable catchment, the 10-storey height will apply.

On the other hand, where properties are close to a town centre or transport link, but are also subject to “qualifying matters” (for example, Special Character Areas, natural hazards, infrastructure constraints, or open space), the “qualifying matter” will still apply, and can limit the density and height allowed.

Central

Waitematā

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 15 storeys): Karanga-a-Hape*, Te Waihorotiu*, Waitematā*, Grafton, Parnell train stations (about 800 metres), Newmarket Metropolitan Centre.
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Newton – Upper Symonds, Parnell, Ponsonby.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Grey Lynn, Jervois Rd.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Great North Rd (Ponsonby–MOTAT), St Marys Bay–Ponsonby routes.

Note: the City Centre zone itself is not open for submissions, and it was addressed through an earlier plan change in May 2025.

Albert-Eden

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Maungawhau**, Kingsland**, Morningside** train stations – these heights were required in legislation passed in August 2025.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Mt Albert**, Baldwin Ave** train stations – these heights were required in legislation passed in August 2025.
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Mt Albert, Pt Chevalier, Three Kings, St Lukes, Stoddard Rd.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Balmoral, Eden Valley.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Dominion Rd (Mt Eden–Mt Roskill), Sandringham Rd, Mt Eden–Sandringham (via Valley Rd), New North Rd (Morningside–Avondale).

Puketapapa

Town Centres / about 400 metres: Three Kings, Stoddard Road.
Local Centres / about 200 metres: Mt Roskill, Lynnfield.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): overlaps on Dominion Rd & Mt Eden Rd.

Maungakiekie-Tamaki

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Panmure, Glen Innes train stations.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Penrose, Sylvia Park Metropolitan Centre, Sylvia Park train station.
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys/ about 400 metres): Panmure, Glen Innes, Onehunga, Royal Oak
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Mt Wellington.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Panmure–Ellerslie, Panmure–Mt Wellington–Sylvia Park, Greenlane–Western Springs (via Balmoral).

North

Upper Harbour

Walkable catchment (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Albany Bus Station
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Albany Metropolitan Centre, Constellation Bus Station.
Walkable catchment (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Rosedale Bus Station.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Hobsonville, Albany Village.

Kaipātiki

Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Birkenhead, Glenfield, Northcote.
Local Centre (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Chatswood.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side) along Glenfield–Birkenhead, Verrans Corner–Onewa Rd routes.

Hibiscus and Bays

Town Centre (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Browns Bay.
Local Centre (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Mairangi Bay.

Devonport Takapuna

Walkable catchment (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Takapuna Metropolitan Centre.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Smales Farm, Sunnynook, Akoranga busway stops.
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Devonport, Milford, Sunnynook.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): along Smales Farm–Takapuna–Milford, Northcote–Takapuna.

Rodney

In line with changes across most of the urban areas of Auckland, Warkworth will see more 2- and 3-storey townhouses and terraces allowed, and less Single House zoning.
There are no walkable catchments for town centres or transport links in Rodney under PC120.

West

Henderson-Massey

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Henderson Metropolitan Centre, Henderson Train Station.
Walkable catchment (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Westgate Metropolitan Centre.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Sunnyvale, Sturges Rd, Ranui train stations.
Town Centre (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Te Atatū North.
Local Centre (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Te Atatū South.
Transport corridor (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): New Lynn–Henderson (shared).

Waitākere Ranges

Town Centre (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Glen Eden.

Whau

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): New Lynn Metropolitan Centre, New Lynn Train Station, Avondale Train Station.
Walkable catchment (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Fruitvale Rd train station.
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Avondale, New Lynn.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Blockhouse Bay, Kelston.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Great North Rd (Pt Chev–Avondale–New Lynn), New Lynn–Henderson (shared) routes.

East

Ōrākei

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Remuera, Greenlane train stations.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Ellerslie, Ōrākei, Meadowbank train stations.
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Greenlane, Remuera.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Greenlane West, Kepa Rd/Eastridge, Meadowbank.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Manukau Rd (Onehunga–Newmarket, shared), Greenlane East, St Johns–Remuera–Newmarket.

Howick

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Pakuranga Bus Station, Te Taha Wai (Edgewater), Williams Ave.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Botany Metropolitan Centre, Koata (Gossamer Drive), Pohatu (Burswood).
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Highland Park, Howick, Pakuranga.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Botany Junction, Meadowlands.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Howick–Botany (via Meadowlands), Botany–Manukau (via Ormiston).

South

Māngere-Otahuhu

Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Māngere.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Māngere East.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Papatoetoe–Ōtāhuhu–Sylvia Park.

Ōtara-Papatoetoe

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 15 storeys / about 800 metres): Manukau Metropolitan Centre, and the Manukau, Ōtāhuhu train stations.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 10 storeys / about 800 metres): Papatoetoe, Puhinui train stations.
Walkable catchments (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Middlemore train station.
Town Centres ((buildings up to 6 storeys / about 400 metres): Hunters Corner, Ōtāhuhu, Ōtara, Papatoetoe.
Local Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres): Dawsons Rd, Clendon.
Transport corridors (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 200 metres either side): Papatoetoe–Ōtāhuhu–Sylvia Park.

Manurewa

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 6 storeys): Manurewa, Homai train stations
Town Centres (buildings up to 6 storeys): Manurewa.

Papakura

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Takaanini, Te Mahia, Papakura Metropolitan Centre, Papakura Train Station.

Franklin

Walkable catchments (buildings up to 6 storeys / about 800 metres): Drury Metropolitan Centre, and the Drury, Ngākōroa, Paerata, and Pukekohe train stations.

Hauraki Gulf islands

Waiheke, Aotea/Great Barrier and other Hauraki Gulf islands are covered by the Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan. This plan is separate from the Auckland Unitary Plan, and as such, PC120 does not change it.

Time to have your say

Stronger hazard rules apply from Monday 3 November 2025, when Plan Change 120 is notified. However, they are subject to change following the public submission process.

You can have your say on these measures, and all proposals under Plan Change 120.

Visit the AKHaveYourSay website until 19 December 2025 to learn more.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/21/what-aucklands-new-plan-means-for-your-neighbourhood/

March 21, 2026

Get the facts on Auckland’s future housing plan

Source: Auckland Council

Auckland’s Future Housing Plan – Proposed Plan Change 120 – makes important changes to Auckland’s planning rules, and there is discussion happening in communities across the city.

The plan change strengthens the rules for building new homes in places at risk of flooding and other natural hazards while also meeting central government direction on housing capacity.

It aims to better protect people and property, while enabling more new homes in well-connected areas near jobs, shops, services and fast, frequent public transport.

But some of the things being shared aren’t accurate, from forcing homeowners and tenants to relocate, new homes being built immediately to comparing Auckland to different situations in different cities.

Here are some quick questions and answers to help you understand what Proposed Plan Change 120 does – and what it doesn’t do.

Question: Does Plan Change 120 make people leave their homes?

Answer: No, it has nothing to do with relocating or moving people out of their homes. Plan Change 120 does not require anyone to leave their home or relocate – that is not how planning rules work.

Instead, it strengthens rules for building in areas with known hazard risks, like flooding, so future buildings are more resilient or reduced in the most vulnerable areas, meaning people living in these areas are better protected. Existing homes remain and development will still happen but with tougher rules.

Question: Will the whole city be “blanketed” by higher-density homes indiscriminately?

Answer: No, taller buildings are only proposed in certain areas, mostly enabled near train stations, rapid busways (like the Northern Busway), frequent bus routes, and town centres where jobs, shops and services already exist.

These are locations where research shows public transport access and housing demand are strongest, and which help to support higher productivity across Auckland.

Not every property will be developed that way. What gets built depends on what the market determines, property owner choices, and what can feasibly be built, not just planning rules. Development usually happens gradually, typically over many years and even in areas allowing taller buildings, there will still be a mix of housing types.

Question: Has Plan Change 120 changed the floodplains?

Answer: Auckland Council has continuously published information it has on flooding and other natural hazards – Plan Change 120 only introduces updated rules in the Auckland Unitary Plan that manage development in these areas.

Information on natural hazards change over time. This is due to changes in modelling inputs and assumptions, understanding of climate change and improved technology. In recent years new modelling has been undertaken to consistently reflect latest climate change information across the region.

The newer modelling has also been able show a greater level of detail about potential flooding risk than previously understood – for example, anticipated depths and velocities of floodwaters.

Question: Are homes being put into flood plains?

Answer: Plan Change 120 allows residential development in flood plains in existing developed areas where the hazard is low, medium or high, as long as the risk can be maintained at or reduced to a tolerable level, for example through the provision of a safe evacuation route and a floor above the flood level.

Any new development will need to go through the resource consent process to determine its appropriateness against the relevant policy settings.

For sites that are constrained by very high flood hazard flooding, the zoning has changed to limit development to the Residential – Single House zone.

For all other sites, in some cases the zoning has changed to allow for additional intensification opportunities. However, the level of development that is suitable on those sites will be dependent on a site-specific assessment and the hazard conditions on site.

Question: Didn’t Christchurch push back on intensification, so Auckland should too?

Answer: No, Christchurch made significant changes to its planning rules to meet government’s intensification requirements.

Christchurch only withdrew from some parts of the government’s housing intensification requirements because it could prove that its updated planning rules enabled enough housing capacity to meet what the legislation required – 30 years of capacity that has been shown to be commercially feasible to build. This is the legal test that applies to Christchurch.

Auckland’s housing capacity requirement is completely different. The legal test for Auckland is that the new Plan Change 120 must enable at least the same amount of housing as the withdrawn Plan Change 78 (the previous plan change required by central government) would have enabled.

Christchurch and Auckland are very different cities with different growth-related challenges, different legislation and their legal housing capacity requirements are not calculated in the same way.

Question: Isn’t housing capacity just a target and does leads to more choice?

Answer: No, housing capacity is not a building target, but it does provide more housing choices over time. Housing capacity required by Plan Change 120 is the theoretical number of homes that could be built if every suitable site across Auckland was fully developed to the maximum the rules allowed.

In reality, far fewer homes are built, even over many decades, and not every site will be developed. Plan Change 120 allows for the same housing capacity as the previous planning rules from central government called Plan Change 78. Capacity is not a construction target. Taking-up opportunities for development depends entirely on property owners and developers.

Capacity is set deliberately high, so developers and property owners have more choices in different locations and for different housing types. This flexibility helps to respond to changing market demands and helps improve affordability over the long term, which is supported by economic data and analysis.

Question: Will I be forced to sell or develop my property?

Answer: No, nothing forces you to sell or develop. Property owners can continue to live in, sell, maintain, improve or redevelop their home as the planning rules allow, what happens with their property is entirely up to them.

Plan Change 120 sets tougher standards for the future development of new homes or buildings, so they are more resilient, or to limit how much new housing can be built in areas most at risk from hazards like flooding to help reduce future risks to people and property.

There is no requirement to develop. It is entirely up to owners whether they want to sell, develop, or do nothing at all.

Question: Will my suburb change overnight with new buildings appearing?

Answer: No, Plan Change 120 doesn’t trigger immediate development. Planning rules only set out what’s allowed to be built, they do not require that homes get built or that development happens. Plan Change 120 simply enables where different types of housing could go in future. Not every property would be suitable for taller buildings. What actually gets built depends on property owners, what is determined by the market and other rules such as resource consents.

Homes cannot be built at that speed anyway. When development does occur, it happens gradually, even over decades, and varies widely across neighbourhoods.

Question: Won’t housing in expensive places still be unaffordable?

Answer: Allowing for more housing density can help make homes more affordable over time. For most homes, land is the biggest cost. Allowing more homes on one property spreads that cost, so each home can be more affordable than a single house on a full section.

Areas near jobs, shops and transport are in high demand, which pushes up land values, so more homes in these areas provide more housing choices.

While homes won’t suddenly be “cheap,” more choices — like townhouses and apartments — give people more choice at different price points and creates competition in the market, helping ease price pressure over time.

What does Proposed Plan Change 120 do?

Here’s the simple version, plan change 120 proposes to:

Strengthen rules for building new homes in areas at risk from flooding and other hazards, with the worst-affected areas mainly limited to single houses.
Enable more homes within walking distances of the city centre, other town centres, train stations, stops on the northern and eastern busways and along some frequent bus routes.
Meet central government direction for significantly more housing capacity and taller buildings around key train stations to support investment in the City Rail Link.

This could mean:

Better protection for people and property by strengthening the rules we already have, reducing exposure to hazards that are becoming more common with climate change.
More new homes where it makes more sense, in well-connected places close to jobs, shops, and fast, frequent public transport – where demand for housing and transport access is strongest.
More housing choices in more locations with easier access to everyday services and facilities.
More transport choice, less congestion, and better access to game-changing infrastructure that all Aucklanders have paid for – helping to get the best return on billons of public investment.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/21/get-the-facts-on-aucklands-future-housing-plan/

March 21, 2026

Hobsonville Point – first decade of a housing masterclass

Source: Auckland Council

Hobsonville Point has evolved into a living example of smart housing in a growing city.

The harbourside suburb in west Auckland has shown how walkable, well-designed, mixed density housing can build a strong sense of community.

Like Northcote ( and many other emerging suburbs offering medium density housing options built close to transport hubs, town centres, schools and community facilities) Hobsonville Point is a housing blueprint envisioned and enabled by the Auckland Unitary Plan.

Hobsonville Point, now a flourishing residential suburb, has grown up from land once used as an airforce base. When the land became available, it was essentially a blank slate for new housing and presented an opportunity to do things smarter and more sustainably.

The Auckland Council group worked closely with the Hobsonville Land Company (a subsidiary of Housing New Zealand established to lead the development, and now part of Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities) and private sector partners to deliver a new kind of neighbourhood for Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

Ten years later, Hobsonville Point is a model of effective master-planning and the delivery of mixed density housing at scale. It is a model for the future.

Hobsonville Point resident and business owner Mike (Buzz) Thomson was sceptical at first of the ‘moments away, worlds apart’ slogan, but after living here since 2017 he believes it delivers more than the slogans promise.

“The planning of Hobsonville Point stands out for me. We have walkable streets, shared laneways, public art and our coastal walkway has become a community anchor. It draws people here,” he says.

The planning Buzz mentions is a recurring theme. Architect Errol Haarhoff was impressed by the area’s master-planning, clear urban design guidelines, the consistent quality of housing and the surrounding environment.

Errol says: “We didn’t actively choose Hobsonville Point. It chose us. We came here for a visit on a whim after hearing about the farmers’ market and loved the place so much we put a deposit on a house within a week,” he says.

Like Buzz, Errol was drawn to the area’s walkability and the presence of social infrastructure. He highlights that early investment in schools, public art, markets, and the coastal walkway helped potential buyers imagine what life would be like in Hobsonville Point.

Errol participated in a National Science Challenge project, which looked at Hobsonville Point as a case study. The study involved interviews with residents.

‘Living at Density in Hobsonville Point, Auckland: Resident Perceptions’ was authored by Errol Haarhoff, Natalie Allen, Patricia Austin, Lee Beattie and Paola Boar in April 2019.

Overwhelmingly, their research demonstrated that satisfaction among residents was high. Respondents highlighted the importance of quality public spaces at Hobsonville Point, which prioritised the wellbeing of residents.

Good development through partnership

Jenny Larking is Head of Growth and Regeneration Delivery in Auckland Council’s newly established Auckland Urban Development Office (AUDO). She is also a resident of Hobsonville Point.

She says the new AUDO is council’s “front door” for partnerships like the one that made Hobsonville Point possible, working with government agencies, iwi, developers, not-for-profit organisations and other partners to deliver smarter, better urban outcomes in Auckland.

She says Hobsonville Point is a shining example for the future of new housing in Tāmaki Makaurau because of its careful master-planning and design.

“The site allowed developers and council to plan new infrastructure, housing, resilience features and amenity all at once, and then to use the area’s uniqueness to get better outcomes. It is always our ambition at Auckland Council, through the Unitary Plan, to enable good development and good design through smart, strategic partnerships.”

Jenny says people have embraced the lifestyle at Hobsonville Point.

“From what I’ve seen, people don’t try and live as they might have lived anywhere else. They enjoy and embrace what’s been created here. Generations can move through different stages in this area – from stand-alone houses to townhouses, duplexes, apartments and even retirement villages.

“And parents of young children have a level of comfort here – 60 to 70 percent of kids walk or cycle to school, a lot higher than the Auckland average. The pathways are wide, roads are safe to cross and we have good pedestrianised infrastructure, encouraging people to get out and about,” Jenny says.

She adds that in new housing development like this Auckland Council and developers build flood resilience in from the start – with rain gardens, bio swales and wetlands protecting people, property and the environment from flooding.

Transport options are also evolving to match people’s needs. The popular ferry service has been expanded to have more sailings and they carry bikes and scooters on board, allowing people to make multi-modal trips.

Multiple bus routes run through the neighbourhood, including the recently improved number 12 service, which connects Henderson and Constellation Station on the Northern Busway via Hobsonville. This service, with double decker electric buses, is one of the most popular in Auckland.

Density done well

Orson Waldock works for Kāinga Ora (and formerly Hobsonville Land Company) as Team Leader Urban Design and is also a long-time resident of Hobsonville Point. In his role at Kāinga Ora, he helped shape the design and delivery of the neighbourhood over six years.

“Within the Kāinga Ora team, this project is colloquially known as the ‘University of Hobsonville Point’. It has enabled us to explore what density done well looks like in a contemporary Auckland context,” Orson says.

“While early housing at Hobsonville Point was more conventional (standalone homes on compact sections), over time we’ve been able to innovate, test and deliver a greater variety of housing forms including terraces, apartments and mixed-use buildings.

“The uplift in density (approximately two to three times greater than conventional suburbs) has come with unique challenges as section sizes have decreased. A large part of my role has been working alongside builder partners and designers to ensure we maintain design quality and liveability.

“My experience of living in Hobsonville Point for 10 years is that the community makes the most of this new kind of neighbourhood. I meet at the local bus stop most mornings at 6am to run with the Early Bird Run Crew. It’s an amazing group of locals who shuffle 5km around the stunning Te Onekiritea Park and Coastal Walkway. The exercise is good, but the company is better. It’s a regular reminder of why we chose to move to Hobsonville Point,” he says.

Hobsonville has some fun-tastic playgrounds for the kids to enjoy all year round.

The people of Hobsonville Point are proud of their place. It’s a proof-point for a widely-held urban planning premise that a mix of housing options will foster vibrant, inclusive, and connected communities.

Hobsonville Point’s transformation reflects what is possible.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/21/hobsonville-point-first-decade-of-a-housing-masterclass/

March 21, 2026

Vintage cars celebrated in Nelson festival

Source: Radio New Zealand

Cars lined up for the teams relay as part of the Vero International Festival of Motoring Samantha Gee/RNZ

There have been flashbacks to the past on the roads around Nelson this week, with hundreds of veteran, vintage and classic cars hitting the streets as part of an international motoring festival.

The four-yearly Vero International Festival of Historic Motoring has drawn people in from all over the country, with some even shipping their beloved cars from as far as the US and Europe for the occasion. It was last held in Nelson in 1972.

The Auckland Veteran and Vintage Car Club brought a blue 1915 Renault Charabanc, known as Angelique, down for the event.

Club member John Stokes said vehicle was found and restored by the club in the 1960s. It had originally been used as a truck to haul timber, then as a speedway vehicle, before it became a farm hack and was left to disintegrate in a paddock.

The 1915 Renault Charabanc named Angelique which is owned by The Veteran and Vintage Car Club in Auckland. Samantha Gee/RNZ

“This type of vehicle was very common probably between about 1910, maybe earlier, and the Second World War. They largely disappeared after World War II.”

The crank start Renault was doing laps as part of a relay challenge at the festival on Friday, where teams of up to 30 vehicles compete to achieve the greatest collective distance over a four hour period.

Stokes said its comfortable cruising speed was somewhere between the 30 and 40 kilometre per hour range and it was maintained by a group of five to ten club members who met once a a month.

“Although it’s probably going to need a bit more maintenance after today when it gets back.”

Jim and Lynn Hefkey also made the trip down from Auckland in their 1975 Bricklin SV1 and Jim said didn’t want to think about how much the fuel had cost, given they still had to get home.

Jim and Lynn Hefkey with their 1975 Bricklin SV1. Samantha Gee/RNZ

“I’m hoping they don’t start shutting the pumps off, you know, when you’ve got a big American V8, they’re fairly thirsty.

He said the Bricklin were built in Canada for the American market, and with their gull wings, bear a striking resemblance to the DMC DeLorean.

“They all say, oh, back to the future, but no…This is the back, the DeLorean is the future.”

The Hefkey’s Bricklin which they drove from Auckland to the festival in Nelson. Samantha Gee/RNZ

Hefey said there were only two other Bricklin SV1’s in New Zealand, both in Christchurch and the couple would head there after Nelson to meet their owners.

Mike White is on the festival organising team and said there were around 1200 participants and 560 vehicles, with people travelling from as far as Czechoslovakia, Canada, the USA and the UK to take part.

“Not all of them have brought vehicles, but some have, some have shipped their Packard’s and the like out, it’s pretty amazing.”

Mike White with his 1955 series 1 Landrover. Samantha Gee/RNZ

The week-long event was tipped to inject $4.5 million dollars into the region.

Rally directors Jim and Kyra Wareing spent hundreds of hours compiling runs – so entrants had the chance to tour the region,

Their aim was to ensure festival-goers could see the region’s three national parks – Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Nelson Lakes, travel on back roads, and visit places of interest like the Higgins Heritage Park, Gardens of the World and the Port Māpua Maritime Museum.

Jim and Kyra Wareing in their 1972 mark II. Samantha Gee/RNZ

“We’ve encouraged them to go to Marahau and get out of the car, walk across the boardwalk, and touch the [Abel Tasman] national park and same at St Arnaud, they were right at the [Nelson Lakes], so we encouraged them to go for a walk in the bush,” Jim Wareing said.

He said there were several runs each day, short ones to cater for small veteran cars which were over 100 years old, and longer runs to cater for newer models.

Nelson man Jared Dacombe is one of the younger festival attendees, at the age of 28. He owns several vintage cars and said his 1989 Nissan Skyline GTR was also among the newer vehicles.

Jared Dacombe with his 1989 Skyline GTR. Samantha Gee/RNZ

“Anything 30 years old is club eligible. It’s kind of a bit controversial but it has its own in history as well and that’s that’s what this thing is about – cars in history.

Dacombe, who owns an automotive business, said his love of motoring came from his great grandfather.

“We we did a lot of touring together both in vintage and classic cars, but the first one was a big international rally down in Invercargill.

“It was just awesome, as a kid, six years old, cruising on the back of a 34 Dodge, it was great touring from Nelson down the coast route and staying in different accommodation, it was just a big buzz.”

Nelson man Stephen Caunter has a 1937 International D2 truck, a 20-year restoration project that he said cost a bit to run, given the increasing cost of fuel.

Nelson man Stephen Caunter with his 1937 International D2 truck. Samantha Gee/RNZ

“There will be people that will go, is this an appropriate thing for the use of fuel at the moment? And, you know, this has been in the organisation stage for years, and did we know what the price of fuel was going to do the month before the event starts?”

He said some vehicles were more fuel efficient than others and a survey of fuel usage among those attending the rally was being done, in order to understand the total consumption.

Caunter said his truck had been in Nelson for years, it was used as a tow track during speedway racing and still had Tahuna Beach Auto Services painted on the side.

“Everyone takes an immense amount of pride in whatever sort of vehicle that they’ve got and I think their ability to share it with the public is one of the joys of vintage motoring.”

Festival director Ray Robertson said the event was several years in the planning and there had been a few recent curveballs – the fuel crisis, ferry cancellations and several car breakdowns.

Festival director Ray Robertson. Samantha Gee/RNZ

“We’ve really had a lot of influence over what happens in the Middle East, you can’t do anything about it.

“Could we have postponed it? Sure, we could have, but why would we?”

The festival finishes tomorrow with a public vehicle show at the Richmond A&P Showgrounds.

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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/2026/03/21/vintage-cars-celebrated-in-nelson-festival/