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Allbirds set to be bought by American Exchange Group

Source: Radio New Zealand

Allbirds footwear company was founded by former All Whites and Phoenix footballer Tim Brown but is now based in the US. Supplied

New Zealand-founded but US-listed footwear company Allbirds is set to be bought by American Exchange Group, a brand management company known for acquiring under-performing consumer labels.

Its US valuation once peaked at US$4.2 billion, but the company was recently threatened with delisting from the Nasdaq after years of falling sales and widespread store closures.

Allbirds’ board has accepted a US$39 million offer from the group, though shareholders still need to approve the deal. The deal is worth around $NZ69m.

The sale would see the Allbirds brand, its intellectual property, and parts of its operations transferred to the buyer – and the listed company wound down.

Allbirds, known for its merino wool sneakers, was founded in 2015 by former All White Tim Brown and Joey Zwillinger, and listed on the Nasdaq in 2021.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/allbirds-set-to-be-bought-by-american-exchange-group/

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Purchasing rules lifted for disability support

Source: New Zealand Government

From today, disabled people with flexible funding will gain more choice and control over their supports, with purchasing rules removed and guidance available to help people manage their budgets.

Minister for Disability Issues Louise Upston says restoring flexibility is possible because of action taken since 2024 to stabilise the disability support system so it can sustain supports into the future. 

“We’re not claiming the job is done. These are only first steps, but we have tackled long-standing and critical problems, to provide stability, predictability, and consistency of supports. This has laid the groundwork for further long-term, positive change for disabled people, their whānau and carers. 

“The 2024 Independent Review confirmed long‑standing issues in the disability support system. The system struggled to track or forecast costs, and oversight was limited. 

“The review also found unclear criteria and processes for people to access flexible funding created an ‘inequitable and unfair’ postcode lottery for disabled people around the country and contributed to increasing costs.

“This Government took action to stabilise the disability support system.

“We began by listening. Through extensive consultation with disabled people, whānau, carers, providers, and advocates, we heard people want a fairer, clearer, more consistent system that recognises their needs, gives them choices and supports good lives. 

“Disabled people nationwide now experience one consistent approach to assess their needs and ensure supports are allocated fairly and consistently – no matter where they live. Support for families’ and carers’ needs can also now be part of the assessment.

“DSS has also built stronger budgeting and financial controls and simplified pricing and contracting for residential providers. Together these improvements help ensure funding is being used effectively to support disabled people, families, whānau and carers. Since 2024, the Government has invested $2.1 billion of additional funding into the disability support system. 

“The 2024 purchasing rules were a difficult but necessary decision to limit unsustainable cost increases over several years – and I acknowledge the past couple of years have been challenging for many disabled people, their families and carers.

“All of this work and investment has built a more stable and sustainable disability support system.  Today, we can now responsibly remove the purchasing rules, keep people’s flexible funding budgets at current levels and provide clear guidance to help people manage their funding. 

“This gives disabled people, whānau and carers more choice, certainty and control to use their flexible funding in ways that work for them and their disability support needs – including respite options for carers,” Louise Upston says.  

Editors’ Notes

From 1 April 2026:

The purchasing rules, including the March 2024 changes, will be removed.
Flexible funding budgets will stay at each person’s current allocation level.
Flexible funding must still be spent in line with people’s funding plans, but people will have more choice about what works for them.
People still need to keep their spending within their allocated budgets.
Flexible funding still cannot be used for prohibited items such as drugs, alcohol, tobacco, gambling and illegal activities.
. A small number of purchases will need pre-approval. For example, international travel equipment, complementary therapies or one-off purchases over a set limit.
There will be extra guidance to plan and manage budgets for people with Individualised funding and some hosted Enabling Good Lives personal budgets. The guidance people get depends on their situation. Hosts will be in touch with each person from 1 April onwards about this.
There is information on the DSS website: Flexible funding changes | Disability Support Services

 

 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/purchasing-rules-lifted-for-disability-support/

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Open Banking to power business growth

Source: New Zealand Government

Open Banking will be extended to business banking channels, opening the door to a broad range of tools and services for businesses, Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Scott Simpson and Small Business and Manufacturing Minister Chris Penk say. 

It means businesses can share their banking data with trusted providers, unlocking faster loan comparisons, automated accounting, and smarter cashflow tools to boost competition and productivity.  

 “This is about making life easier for businesses. It means fintechs can develop new tools for businesses which can mean less time on paperwork and admin, and more time focusing on customers and growth,” Mr Simpson says. 

“Simple things like automated accounting tools and streamlined payment systems can save businesses hours every day.” 

In the United Kingdom, businesses using Open Banking tools saved around 150 hours a year on basic tasks.  

“That’s nearly a month of time gained, and that’s time that can be spent growing the business, supporting staff, or serving customers.” 

“Since regulated open banking launched in December 2025, major banks have rolled out services to customer banking channels, with fintechs already delivering innovative new tools to New Zealanders.”

Cabinet has confirmed that banks will not be required to enable regulated Open Banking for large corporates and institutions. International examples show limited demand, and use case for Open Banking among larger entities. 

Minister Penk says Open Banking is particularly valuable for small businesses because it tackles several of their biggest constraints at once. 

“Small businesses can struggle to secure loans because they lack long credit histories or substantial collateral, but Open Banking products allow lenders a clearer picture of how a business is actually performing.

“Cash flow is also one of the biggest pain points, which fintechs can use Open Banking to address by bringing accounts from different banks into one place, helping owners track money in and out in real time so they can avoid shortfalls and make better spending decisions.

“For smaller operators with fewer staff, manual reconciliation, invoicing, and financial tracking take up valuable time. Services harnessing Open Banking can automate these tasks, reduce paperwork and errors, and free up capacity to focus on running the business,” Mr Penk says.

“Open Banking will boost competition, improve productivity, and give businesses better choices. This next step means more businesses will start to see those benefits in their day-to-day operations.” 

“Easy access to Open Banking tools and their wide range of benefits is all about boosting productivity and reducing the burden on small businesses. It’s a key priority for this Government,” Mr Simpson says. 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/open-banking-to-power-business-growth/

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Beauty pageant contestant breaks norm, busting out hectic moves

Source: Radio New Zealand

A Thailand beauty pageant contestant is making waves on social media after busting out some bold dance moves on stage.

Darathorn Yoothong, a professional dancer, made headlines around the world for going against the tide in the scene as fellow contestants stood swaying to the music in their spot during the swimsuit segment dance.

More than 70 contestants from various provinces in Thailand were competing for a chance to represent the country at the Miss Grand International competition.

“I just truly be myself but this is honestly unbelievable than i ever imagine,” Yoothong wrote on her Instagram after seeing all the attention online.

“Thank you so much for the love from everyone all around the world. I promise I’ll be back stronger and even more fun.”

The judges placed her withing the top 20 of the final rankings.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/beauty-pageant-contestant-breaks-norm-busting-out-hectic-moves/

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Live: White Ferns v South Africa Women – second ODI

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow all the action as the White Ferns take on South Africa Women for the second of three ODI matches.

Debutant Kayla Reyneke cleared the boundary with a last-ball six to give South Africa the opening win in the first ODI at Christchurch on Sunday.

First ball at Wellingtno’s Cello Basin Reserve is at 11am.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/live-white-ferns-v-south-africa-women-second-odi/

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Correction: Court sentencing brings reminder firearms safety

Source: New Zealand Police

The media release titled ‘Court sentencing brings reminder of firearms safety’ issued yesterday at 5.13pm transposed two names.

The first line should read “Police acknowledge the sentencing handed down today in the High Court at Hamilton to Jack Hargreaves, for the murder of his brother Joshua Hargreaves in July last year.”

Police unreservedly apologise to the Hargreaves family for the error.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/correction-court-sentencing-brings-reminder-firearms-safety/

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Business pressures mostly out of owners’ control – survey

Source: Radio New Zealand

Insurer Vero’s annual SME Insurance Index indicates more than one in five (21 percent) businesses were not confident in their own business. 123RF

Business confidence is under pressure, with nearly two-thirds of small- and medium-sized businesses experiencing a drop in revenue over the past year – with income down a quarter for a further 17 percent.

Insurer Vero’s annual SME Insurance Index indicates more than one in five (21 percent) businesses were not confident in their own business, with just 36 percent feeling confident.

Vero executive general manager Sacha Cowlrick said businesses were under pressure to cut costs, but warned against dropping insurance.

“Having adequate [insurance] cover could be the difference between folding under pressure and finding a way through.”

External concerns dominate

The survey of 550 SME business owners found most were experiencing pressures outside of their direct control, including increasing costs (88 percent) and the economic downturn (83 percent).

Political upheaval was also a concern for many. Changes to tax policy (69 percent), regulatory changes (61 percent) and political instability (61 percent) were top of the list.

“This is compounded by the current volatile global landscape, adding another layer of unpredictability to an already complex operating environment for SMEs,” Cowlrick said.

“There is no doubt that there are very real macro-pressures concerning SMEs, but it’s critical that business owners focus on the things they can control in order to give them the best chance of weathering the storm.”

Resilience tested

Nearly half (47 percent) of businesses said they never or rarely conducted formal risk analyses, with more than half (53 percent) operating without any structured risk management framework, though six in 10 businesses expected to face at least one major operational risk this year.

The survey found about a quarter (24 percent) believed their business was very resilient.

“Business resilience isn’t just about bouncing back after an event. It’s about understanding your exposures and making informed decisions before something happens,” she said, adding that an insurance broker could help businesses develop a resilience strategy.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/business-pressures-mostly-out-of-owners-control-survey/

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Commerce Commission receptive to $1.14 billion Cook Strait power cable request

Source: Radio New Zealand

Three power cables run across Cook Strait and Transpower would like to add a fourth. Supplied / Transpower

  • Commerce Commission set to approve $1.14 billion replacement of the Cook Strait power cables
  • National grid operator Transpower needs regulator approval to spend
  • Current cables 35 years old, near end of life
  • Transpower wants to add fourth cable to improve capacity and resilience
  • ComCom seeks public submissions

The Commerce Commission says it is inclined to approve a Transpower request to spend $1.14 billion to upgrade, replace, and expand the Cook Strait power cables.

The state-owned national grid operator wants to replace the current 35-year-old cables, which are coming to the end of their operational life, and add an extra cable.

Major capital spending by Transpower and electricity lines companies must be approved by the regulator to ensure they do not take advantage of their monopoly positions.

Associate Commissioner Nathan Strong said the cables were critical electricity transmission infrastructure and vital for national security of supply.

“Installing a fourth cable at the same time unlocks an additional 200MW of capacity, which can reduce long-term electricity market costs and enable the development of lower cost renewables generation in the South Island.”

The commission is asking for [https://www.comcom.govt.nz/regulated-industries/electricity-lines/projects/hvdc-link-upgrade/

public submissions] on the proposal.

Strong said approval of the first stage of the project now would allow necessary ordering of equipment and cable and for work to start in 2028, and cable replacement in the early 2030s.

“The investment would be added to Transpower’s total asset base and recovered gradually over the many decades the equipment is in service.

“Under the benefits based pricing method, these costs would be shared between electricity consumers and generators who benefit from the HVDC (high voltage direct current) link,” Strong said.

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://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/commerce-commission-receptive-to-1-14-billion-cook-strait-power-cable-request/

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Health – West Coast bed shortage shows aged care is health care and the system is broken

Source: Aged Care Association

The growing shortage of aged residential care beds on the West Coast is not just a community issue – it is a health system failure, reinforcing that aged care must be treated and funded as an essential part of New Zealand’s health system.
Over the past decade, the Buller District has lost 54 aged residential care beds following the withdrawal of Health New Zealand (Te Whatu Ora) from service provision in Reefton and Westport. This has occurred in a region with one of the oldest populations in the country, where 26.3% of residents are aged over 65 – nearly double the national average.
The impact is now being felt across the entire health system.
O’Conor Home in Westport currently has 20 people on its waiting list, including eight who have already been assessed as requiring residential care but cannot access it locally. With no beds available, older people are either remaining in hospital unnecessarily or being forced to leave their communities to receive care.
In one recent case, an older person nearing the end of their life spent over a month in a hospital Assessment, Support and Rehabilitation Unit simply because there was no aged care bed available and they could not return home.
“This is what happens when aged care is not recognised as health care,” says Aged Care Association Chief Executive Tracey Martin. 
“These are people who have been clinically assessed as needing care. When there is no aged care bed available, they don’t stop needing care – they stay in hospital, or families are left to manage complex health needs at home.”
The consequences extend beyond individual families, placing additional pressure on already stretched hospital and emergency services.
Despite the clear need, providers ready to expand capacity are unable to do so due to a lack of capital funding support.
“We have providers who are shovel-ready to build and expand beds,” says Martin. 
“But unless aged care is treated as core health infrastructure, and funded accordingly, those beds will not be built and hospitals will continue to carry the cost.”
The Aged Care Association is calling on the Government to establish a dedicated Aged Residential Care Infrastructure Fund, recognising aged care as a critical component of the health system.
“If aged care is health care – and it is – then it must be planned, funded, and invested in as part of the health system,” says Martin. 
“Right now, we are seeing the consequences of not doing so. People are stuck in hospital beds, families are under pressure, and communities are losing the ability to care for their own.”
“This is not a future problem. It is happening now, and it is entirely fixable.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/health-west-coast-bed-shortage-shows-aged-care-is-health-care-and-the-system-is-broken/

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University Research – High school maths scores linked to adult success – UoA

Source: University of Auckland – UoA

How cohorts of students perform in maths tests as teenagers is associated with how these groups fare later in life, according to new research.

The study, published in Economics of Education Review, finds stronger performance in two global assessments is associated with higher levels of education, stronger numeracy skills, and higher incomes in adulthood. (ref. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272775725001001 )

University of Auckland economist Dr Sam Stemper combined data on mathematics scores from two international standardised tests and analysed adult outcomes from 18 global surveys.

The assessments, which are both used around the world including in Australia and New Zealand, TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) and PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment), are often regarded as the ‘gold standard’ for evaluating adolescent numeracy and literacy skills on a global scale.

Stemper compared PISA and TIMSS maths scores with later outcomes among groups of students who took both tests during high school.

“Maths skills play an important role in the academic and economic trajectory of individuals throughout their lives,” says Stemper, whose findings suggest PISA scores have a stronger relationship with education and income in adulthood compared to TIMSS scores.

He says this is significant for two reasons.

First, PISA and TIMSS exams test distinct skills, even within the same subject. TIMSS emphasises curriculum-based knowledge, focusing on material that students learn in school. However, PISA has a focus on measuring students’ ability to apply their knowledge in ‘real-world’ scenarios.

Second, since 2000, PISA and TIMSS scores have moved in opposite directions in many countries. While TIMSS math scores have generally increased, PISA scores have stagnated or declined for most participants.

Stemper says taken alone this is concerning; when considering his findings, it’s even more so.
“The divergence suggests we should pay attention to potential declines in ‘real-world’ problem-solving skills and what that may mean for students later in life,” he says.

“Students may become good at repeating information, but it is important to also focus on how well they can apply their knowledge. This may better support long-term educational and economic outcomes.”

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/university-research-high-school-maths-scores-linked-to-adult-success-uoa/

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Health – Lung and heart patients face higher risks as flu season begins

Source: Asthma and Respiratory Foundation

People living with long-term lung and heart conditions are being urged to ensure their vaccinations are up to date ahead of the cooler months.
With autumn beginning and a recent wave of COVID-19, respiratory viruses are already circulating in the community. For people with conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchiectasis, or cardiovascular disease, these infections can lead to much more serious illness.
Ms Letitia Harding, Chief Executive of the Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ and Kia Manawanui Trust – The Heart of Aotearoa, says the recent COVID-19 wave is a reminder that respiratory viruses continue to pose a significant risk for people already living with lung and heart disease.
“Every winter brings increased circulation of respiratory viruses, and for people living with chronic conditions, the consequences can be much more serious.
“An infection that might be mild for someone else can quickly become dangerous for someone whose lungs or heart are already under strain.”
Ensuring vaccinations are up to date as we settle into the cooler months is one of the simplest and most effective ways people can protect themselves, Ms Harding says.
“Being prepared before the winter respiratory season begins can make a real difference in preventing severe illness and keeping people out of hospital.”
Late last year, the Foundation called for the reinstatement of the FluTracking programme ahead of the coming winter to help strengthen monitoring of respiratory illness in the community.
FluTracking has been an essential community surveillance tool since 2018, helping track influenza, COVID-19, RSV, and other respiratory illnesses nationwide.
Foundation Medical Director and respiratory physician Professor Bob Hancox says surveillance of respiratory infections is important for giving us advance warning of outbreaks and preparing health services.
“The FluTracking programme gave us real-time information about influenza-like illnesses in the community and will be badly missed this winter.”
In addition to tracking, vaccinations play an important role in reducing the impact of respiratory illness each year, Professor Hancox says.
“People with chronic respiratory diseases are more vulnerable to complications from infections such as influenza, COVID-19 and RSV.
“Vaccination reduces the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation, and exacerbations of underlying lung conditions.”
Trust Medical Director and cardiologist Dr Sarah Fairley says respiratory infections can also place significant strain on the heart, particularly for people already living with cardiovascular disease.
“When someone with an existing heart condition gets a respiratory infection, the body is under much greater stress.
“Fever, inflammation and reduced oxygen levels mean the heart has to work harder, which can increase the risk of complications such as heart failure or other cardiac events,” she says.
“Vaccination is one of the most effective ways people with heart conditions can reduce their risk of serious illness during the winter respiratory season.”
People living with respiratory or cardiac conditions are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations ahead of winter.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/health-lung-and-heart-patients-face-higher-risks-as-flu-season-begins/

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Employment and Law – Government settles for the bare minimum when it comes to workers – Unite Union

Source: Unite Union

Unite Union is describing the April 1st minimum wage increase as “the bare minimum,” at a time when working people need real relief.

The new rate of $23.95 remains significantly below the Living Wage, leaving workers struggling to keep up with the rising cost of rent, food, and basic necessities. 

“Cost of Living is the number one issue this election year, and this measly increase will be easily overtaken by inflation and the fuel crisis,” said  Shanna Olsen-Reeder, National Secretary of Unite Union.

“It’s an underwhelming and disrespectful move by the outgoing Minister of Workplace Relations, who continues to aspire to a legacy of slashing the rights of regular working people,” 

“It shouldn’t be a controversial idea that working people deserve wages they can actually live on.”

Christina Barwick, Fast Food worker and Unite Union Co-President, said this government is out of touch with the real issues facing regular working people.

“This is effectively a pay cut, which will not provide much needed relief. I want to see inflation met with a few extra dollars in our pockets, so that workers are not being forced into income poverty,” said Barwick.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/employment-and-law-government-settles-for-the-bare-minimum-when-it-comes-to-workers-unite-union/

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McClay attends key WTO negotiations

Source: New Zealand Government

Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay has wrapped up negotiations as Vice Chair at the 14th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

“Disappointingly, proposals to reform the WTO and to extend the WTO-wide prohibition on the imposition of tariffs on digital trade flows could not be agreed in time,” Mr McClay says.

“However, all Members agreed the WTO needs to be modernised.

“An agreement on the final package is in reach and securing these decisions through further work in Geneva will now be the priority for New Zealand.”

Mr McClay also met with counterparts from 17 countries during the conference, including the United States, India, China, European Union, United Arab Emirates
and Saudi Arabia.

“While fuel supplies remain healthy for New Zealand, I took the opportunity to meet with Ministers from Singapore, and Korea, as well as Heads of Delegation from Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, to discuss critical fuel supply chains,” Mr McClay says.

Progressing the implementation of a new Electronic Commerce Agreement, underpinning approximately US$159 billion in trade, was agreed to by 66 WTO Members – who between them account for 70 per cent of global trade.

“This significant outcome will provide more predictability to our small businesses and exporters including through a permanent ban on tariffs on digital trade flows between the parties,” Mr McClay says.

“New Zealand also continues to pursue progress on negotiations to limit fisheries and agricultural subsidies, which are a significant issue in reducing our exporters’ returns.”

Labour Party Trade and Export Growth spokesperson Damien O’Connor joined the New Zealand delegation.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/mcclay-attends-key-wto-negotiations/

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Tongariro Alpine Crossing – How To

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

By Krysia Nowak 

It’s an iconic hike, you’ve seen it all over Instagram, and maybe you plan on hitting it this Easter: here’s how to get the most out of it, and what not to do. 

Emerald and Blue Lake on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

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Emerald and Blue Lake on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

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The stunning and sacred landscape of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing draws visitors from around the world.
: P Baxter 

So, you want to do the Tongariro Alpine Crossing? Here’s how it could go: 

Getting the most out of Tongariro Alpine Crossing 

You see your weather window a couple of days out, and book your spot on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing (it’s free!). You receive a helpful email with extra safety information. You choose to book a shuttle as well, so you don’t have to worry about transport on the day. 

Knowing it can be quite a challenging hike in an alpine environment you prepare carefully. Your trusty tramping boots are by the door ready to go, along with sunscreen and a hat. You’ve got layers of warm and windproof clothing and extra layers in your bag. Lots of water and plenty of food to keep you going. You’ve tucked a personal first aid kit in there too – you don’t want the embarrassment of calling for a rescue because you got a blister! 

On the day, you wake up super early and jump on the shuttle. Your driver is friendly and gives you advice about the weather conditions for today. Looks like it’s going to be stunning, but you’re prepared just in case. 

At Mangatepopo Road end you are greeted by Te Ririo, the beautiful carved pou that watches over all who attempt the Crossing. Friendly Manaaki Rangers check you’re all prepared for your trip and you appreciate their warm send-off. 

Pou Te Ririo. Manaaki Rangers provide helpful information at the start of the track. 

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Pou Te Ririo. Manaaki Rangers provide helpful information at the start of the track. 

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Te Ririō, the carved pou whenua (guardian post) at the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

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Te Ririō, the carved pou whenua (guardian post) at the start of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

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Manaaki Rangers provide helpful information at the start of the track. | Pou Te Ririō. 
: DOC

You start the track. You take lots of photos and use the toilets when they’re available. When a tissue drops out of your pocket you quickly pick it up – this place is too special to mess up. 

You’re glad of your clothes preparation when a chilly breeze comes up, and the extra food helps keep up morale during the hard trek. 

You’re careful not to enter the lakes, which are considered tapu, and at the same time you feel privileged to be able to experience a landscape which has such importance to Māori. 

You finish the day exhausted, but safe, and feeling very accomplished. Can’t wait to put this on Insta! 

Here’s how NOT to do it 

Here’s how to ensure you and those around you have a terrible time on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. 

You don’t book your visit, so you miss all the useful information you’d receive in the booking confirmation email. 

You’ve seen the Tongariro Alpine Crossing on Instagram and it looks like anyone can do it, so you’re not too worried. You throw on some clothes, jandals, and chuck 500ml of water in your bag. You wander up the roadside to the start of the track, dodging transport shuttles on the narrow road. 

You rock up with your bike and your dog. People at the start of the track tell you it’s against the rules, but you know better, so you ignore them. 

Sometimes you have to ride off the track to go around some walkers, and your dog is mostly off-track keeping out of everyone’s way. It’s only tiny alpine plants anyway,  the erosion isn’t too bad, and what’s the big deal if your dog goes for a swim in the sacred Emerald Lakes? 

Halfway through the walk you pull your drone from your bag to get some footage. The high-pitched whine echoes across the quiet of the Dual World Heritage National Park. 

You poop on the side of the track. You run out of water. You get cold. You call for help and are helicoptered out. 

But really…. 

OK, this is an extreme example, but it draws from actual things people have done on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing.  

We’ve had people riding their bikes. We’ve had people taking ‘emotional support’ dogs. We’ve had drones destroying the peace. We’ve had people in jandals, with no extra water, no preparation. People have gone off-track, causing erosion and damaging slow-growing alpine plants. We’ve seen people being rescued for stupid reasons, costing thousands of dollars and hours of stress for rescuers and community. Just in the last fortnight we’ve had to provide assistance to tourists who were off-track, attempting to summit Ngauruhoe despite its sacred nature and the safety risks of doing so. 

Don’t be that person. 

Tourists caught biking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in 2023 were fined and had their bikes confiscated. 

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Tourists caught biking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in 2023 were fined and had their bikes confiscated. 

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Tourists caught biking on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in 2023 were fined and had their bikes confiscated. 
: DOC

Top tips 

Here are my top tips to get the most out of the Crossing without being ‘that person’: 

1. Go to the DOC website – find out if the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the right experience for you (and what you can and can’t do there). 

2. While you’re there, book in – you’ll get a neat little email with useful info. 

3. Book transport if you can – it’s a safe and hassle-free way to do the track 

4. Prepare! Be prepared for changing weather and a challenging hike. Think hiking boots, warm clothing, 2-3 litres of water, extra food, and a first aid kit. 

5. Be flexible. If the weather is bad, why not try a safer alternative? There are plenty of other great tracks in the Tongariro area. 

6. Be respectful of the land and the people around you. 

If you’re attempting the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, be prepared, so you, and those around you, can have the best experience naturing in this beautiful area.  

Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

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Tongariro Alpine Crossing.

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: DOC

Krysia Nowak is DOC’s Central North Island Communication Advisor, based just around the corner from the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. She provides communication support to the team responsible for managing the Crossing, helping them to keep the people, and the land, safe. 

Learn more about the Tongariro Alpine Crossing on the DOC website.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/tongariro-alpine-crossing-how-to/

Posted on

‘Not an easy decision’: Corrections chief executive Jeremy Lightfoot leaving organisation

Source: Radio New Zealand

National Commissioner of Corrections Jeremy Lightfoot. RNZ / Diego Opatowski

Corrections chief executive Jeremy Lightfoot has been appointed as the new boss of the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport.

Lightfoot, who has held the role since 2020, emailed staff on Wednesday morning saying he wanted to “share some personal news”.

“This has not been an easy decision, and it is not an easy message to write.

“What makes leaving hardest is, without question, the people. Over my time in Corrections, I have had the privilege of working alongside exceptional people in every part of this organisation; people who care deeply, work hard in often demanding circumstances, and make a real difference through the critical work we do each day.”

  • Do you know more? Email sam.sherwood@rnz.co.nz

Lightfoot said Corrections was an organisation with a “serious purpose”.

“The work we do matters enormously, for public safety, for the people in our care, for whānau, and for the communities we serve. That sense of purpose, and the commitment of our people to it, is something I will carry with me always.

“After more than six years as chief executive, I believe the time is right to hand over the reins to someone new. There is never a perfect time to leave a role like this, but with some really important foundations now laid, and a clear direction for where the organisation is heading, I believe Corrections is well set for the future”.

Lightfoot said his focus remained on supporting a “good transition, maintaining momentum, and doing all I can to leave the organisation well”.

“I know I will not have the opportunity to see and thank many of you personally before I leave, and I regret that. So, I want to say this now, clearly and sincerely: thank you.

“Thank you for what you do. Thank you for the professionalism, resilience and humanity you bring to this work. And thank you for all you have contributed during my time as chief executive.”

Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche announced Lightfoot as the secretary and chief executive for the new Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport in a statement.

He said the new ministry would “will tackle many of New Zealand’s major economic and environmental challenges, working to unlock the potential of our cities and regions to drive economic growth, resilience and quality of life”.

“The secretary for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport will lead the new ministry, working with local government, Māori, and the private sector to coordinate planning, investment, and regulations to deliver local solutions.”

Sir Brian said Lightfoot was an “impressive, experienced leader with a reputation for delivery”.

“Mr Lightfoot has led large workforces, including front‑line and multi-specialist workers. He knows how to bring that mix of skills together to achieve results,” said Sir Brian.

“He understands how to get policy, funding and delivery working in step and has worked closely with councils, Māori and communities – experience that matters for the challenges the Ministry has been established to address.”

Lightfoot has been appointed for five years and will take up his new role on 27 April.

According to Corrections’ website Lightfoot joined Corrections in May 2010 as the Public Private Partnership (PPP) Director for the Wiri Prison Project where he was responsible for the design, development and procurement of New Zealand’s first PPP to combine design, build, financing and operation of a prison.

“He’s since held various leadership roles within Corrections, including general manager of Finance, Technology and Commercial, and National Commissioner, where he was accountable for the operation of 18 prisons and 165 community corrections sites. Before his appointment as chief executive, he was deputy chief executive, Corrections.

“Jeremy has extensive public sector and commercial experience both in New Zealand and the United Kingdom.”

His departure comes after RNZ earlier revealed Corrections commissioner of custodial services Leigh Marsh was facing an employment investigation in relation to allegations of bullying.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/not-an-easy-decision-corrections-chief-executive-jeremy-lightfoot-leaving-organisation/

Posted on

Restrictions on Good Friday, Easter Sunday alcohol sales could be gone by weekend

Source: Radio New Zealand

Alcohol sale restrictions could be gone by long weekend. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Some restrictions on Good Friday and Easter Sunday alcohol sales could be gone as soon as this long weekend.

A member’s bill from Labour MP Kieran McAnulty would amend the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act to allow allow premises that are already open on Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Anzac Day morning, and Christmas Day to sell alcohol under normal licence conditions.

Currently, bars or restaurants can only sell alcohol if the patron is “residing or lodging” on the premises, or “present on the premises to dine”.

McAnulty said the legislation would clear up a “confusing law” that had been in place for a long time.

“Just because something’s always been that way doesn’t mean that that’s a good reason to keep it,” he said.

The general requirement is that patrons have to order a ‘substantial meal’, but McAnulty said that was not defined, and patrons were not required to eat it anyway.

“That is a bit of a farce of a situation. So all we’re doing is clearing it up that those businesses that are already able to operate anyway can do so under normal conditions, and those that can’t like off-licences and supermarkets, they remain restricted, but for those on-licences that are already operating, they can do so normally.”

The bill is up for its third reading on Wednesday. Exactly when depends on other legislation scheduled to be debated first.

If the bill passes, it is possible it may receive Royal Assent on Thursday, in time for Good Friday.

Kieran McAnulty RNZ / Angus Dreaver

McAnulty said the timing was a “sticking point,” but as some government bills were scheduled to receive Royal Assent on Thursday he was hopeful his could be included alongside those.

“It’s quite fortuitous timing, I think, the way that it’s played out. And really, we’re at the mercy and availability of Her Excellency, and I’m not of a mind to flick a text to the Governor-General and ask for a solid, so I’m quite happy with the way that it’s played out, and hopefully it does follow through.”

Parliament treats alcohol legislation as a conscience matter, meaning MPs vote according to their personal view or what they think is best for their electorate or community, rather than as a party bloc.

It means some of McAnulty’s own Labour colleagues may choose to oppose his bill, but the MP was optimistic he had the numbers across the House to pass.

McAnulty’s original intent was to allow any premises that was allowed to operate on those public holidays to sell alcohol, which would have included supermarkets but not bottle shops.

But he said it was changed to keep things simple, and only apply it to on-licence venues.

“It’s proven to be the right decision, because we’ve maintained enough support in Parliament,” he said.

“I know that if we’d stuck with off-licences or supermarkets, there are people that would have withdrawn their support, and it probably wouldn’t have passed.”

An amendment proposed by ACT MP Cameron Luxton has been adopted into the bill.

ACT MP Cameron Luxton. VNP / Phil Smith

Luxton’s amendment means bars can open after midnight on Anzac and Easter holidays. McAnulty said that was consistent with the intention of the bill, and he was happy to support it.

“I know that the hospitality businesses in Christchurch are very happy about that, because when their stadium opens and people leave, they won’t have to then be kicked out of the hospitality businesses at midnight because it’s Anzac Day the following day.”

McAnulty, a Catholic, was less concerned with religious opposition to the bill, but understood why people might be opposed on health grounds.

“It’s a valid concern, but because the bill only targets those on-licensed premises that are already able to operate, it’s actually not going to expand the number of premises that can provide alcohol. It just means they don’t have to jump through these ridiculous hoops in order to be able to do it.”

This is not the only piece of legislation that would liberalise alcohol trading laws to pass through Parliament this term.

The government is working through its own piece of legislation to allow restaurants with on-site retail spaces to sell take-home alcoholic beverages, if they also sell takeaway food or non-alcoholic beverages prepared by the business.

Luxton’s own member’s bill to repeal alcohol restrictions on Good Friday and Easter Sunday was voted down at first reading in 2024.

Another bill by National’s Stuart Smith to allow winery cellar doors to charge visitors for samples and add off-licence categories for wineries holding an on-licence passed successfully through the House in 2024.

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/restrictions-on-good-friday-easter-sunday-alcohol-sales-could-be-gone-by-weekend/

Posted on

Easter weather: Calm before a possible storm – heavy rain forecast for parts of country

Source: Radio New Zealand

MetService said it had “moderate confidence” a heavy rain warning will be needed for the ranges of central and northern Westland. Julia Sudnitskaya / 123RF

A calm start to the Easter break will be followed by potential heavy rain to parts of the country, forecasters say.

“It’s a little bit windy at the moment but that southwesterly is starting to ease and then we get to bask in the calmness of high pressure for the next couple of days before the high moves to the east on Friday,” Heather Keats, MetService head of weather news, said.

“There will be a couple of little features leading up to the weekend with the next series of fronts approaching the South Island on Friday. Those fronts move over the island on Saturday.”

That will allow a “northwesterly flow over southern and central New Zealand to strengthen ahead of a series of fronts approaching from the northwest”, MetService said in its severe weather outlook update.

“There is low confidence of rainfall accumulations reaching warning amounts during the second half of the day in the ranges of Westland, also also for southern Fiordland.”

[embedded content]

In the lead-up to the long weekend, Wednesday will see isolated showers nationwide, but otherwise “quite settled” weather.

“Thursday, which this week is the new Friday, is even better with the only real showers likely for Fiordland and for Stewart Island,” Keats said.

“On Friday … the North Island is still fairly decent, but those showers develop in the west of the South Island early in the day and will turn to rain later in the day.

“And on Saturday, those fronts will dish up heavy rain to both western and eastern parts of the south. Could be some watches and warnings for the start of Easter.”

The forecast for Sunday, 5 April. MetService

MetService said it had “moderate confidence” a heavy rain warning will be needed for the ranges of central and northern Westland, and low confidence for southern Westland and Fiordland before noon.

“There is also low confidence of heavy rain for central and southern Canterbury, eastern Otago and northern parts of Central Otago.”

On Sunday, the bad weather will move slowly north across the South Island.

“There is low confidence of warning amounts of heavy rain during the first half of the day for the ranges of central and northern Westland, and for all of Canterbury. There is also low confidence of heavy rain for northwest Tasman and Buller, but this continues all day.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/easter-weather-calm-before-a-possible-storm-heavy-rain-forecast-for-parts-of-country/

Posted on

Australians ‘getting better deal on Easter eggs’

Source: Radio New Zealand

An economist has compared the price of New Zealand Easter eggs with those in Australia. Cybèle and Bevan / Unsplash

New Zealanders are paying more for their Easter eggs than shoppers across the Tasman, one senior economist says.

Westpac economist Satish Ranchhod has compared the price of Easter treats in New Zealand with those in Australia.

He found a chocolate bunny had the biggest price difference – one that was NZ$9 here was NZ$5.99 in Australia.

A bag of mini chocolate eggs was NZ$7 in New Zealand and the equivalent of NZ$5.39 in Australia.

A 10-pack of chocolate hollow eggs was 73c cheaper in Australia.

Even hot cross buns were 73c cheaper across the ditch. A multi-pack of cream-filled mini chocolate eggs was NZ$1.61 cheaper in Australia.

Only a single cream-filled chocolate egg was cheaper in New Zealand. It was 40c dearer in Australia.

Earlier, RNZ reported that Easter egg prices this year are higher than last year’s, probably on the back of higher prices for ingredients.

Ranchhod said he considered whether the difference in price could be due to GST but that did not seem to explain it.

“It could be that there’s higher import costs in New Zealand, since we’re slightly further away from some of those big markets. But it’s quite surprising that the Aussies are getting these better prices for these sweet treats at Easter.”

He said items seemed to be on special at the same time in both Australia and New Zealand, so it was also not due to different discounts.

Waiting a bit longer could help reduce the price, he said.

“We do tend to get a little bit of last-minute discounting for these items, and if you’re really frugal, maybe you can wait till Tuesday after Easter and pick up a few bargains on those items that didn’t sell.”

Ranchhod said people who wanted chocolate and weren’t worried about what it looked like could save money by buying traditional blocks.

“If we looked at the price of that chocolate, it was still a much better deal to get a block than it was to go get the chocolate eggs or the bunnies. It’s not as much fun, but it’s much better value for money.”

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

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/australians-getting-better-deal-on-easter-eggs/

Posted on

Fuel disruption brings City Rail Link benefits into sharper focus

Source: Auckland Council

The world’s fuel shock is making life challenging at the pump.

Conflict in the Middle East and this fuel price pressure, whilst difficult on many fronts, are reinforcing the value of the City Rail Link (CRL) as the city gets ready for day one of the new network in the second half of 2026.

Public transport is already one of the most affordable ways to travel. Up to 400,000 weekday trips are being recorded at the moment, the highest level since COVID, and there is capacity for more. CRL is set to make public transport options even more attractive.  

Auckland Transport has a fully electric train fleet shielding it from fuel price rises and any potential fuel restrictions. For the last few years it’s been gradually adding more trains to be able to carry more people when CRL opens later this year.

When the South City (S-E), East West (E-W) and Onehunga West (O-W) lines are up and running and ticketing gates first open at the city’s new CRL stations, many Aucklanders will start to experience the benefits of the new network every day.

Some big-picture benefits are anticipated too – things like improved sustainability, productivity, liveability and walkability to stations.

Big-picture benefits

Commentators say CRL will lift Auckland as an international contender for talent, investment capital, tourism revenue and big events.      

Councillor Andy Baker who is Chair of Auckland Council’s Transport and Infrastructure Delivery Committee says the City Rail Link network itself, the upgrade of neighbourhoods around new stations, and the higher frequency timetable will all improve how the city moves, grows and competes.

“When the new stations open, I think Aucklanders will be proud of what they see. We have built stunning long-term assets for the city. Our city centre has been regenerated, and we’re ready. I’m excited that Aucklanders will soon be able to enjoy it.

“It will open up easy and efficient travel in and around the city for those further from the city centre, while connecting the likes of Pukekohe and Franklin with our urban population. Everywhere will benefit,” says Councillor Baker.

Auckland Council Director of Resilience and Infrastructure Barry Potter says CRL is the largest, most complex transport project undertaken in New Zealand for decades.

“Just as Waitematā Station has driven quality development in downtown, the CRL’s new stations will also drive investment. It will continue to have a positive catalyst effect. 

Auckland Council’s Barry Potter in Myers Park which was upgraded as part of Te Waihorotiu Station neighbourhood.

“And the more people use the rail network and the more vehicles come off the roads, the more sustainable Auckland becomes,” says Potter.  

Looking at the economic advantages of the new transport network, Auckland Council Chief Economist Gary Blick says improved connectivity between people and jobs enabled by CRL will drive urban productivity.

“A more productive Auckland is not only more competitive in attracting people, skills, and investment; ultimately it’s a more liveable place for everyone,” he says. 

Reflecting on the upgraded streets and spaces the Auckland Council group has delivered around the new stations to welcome the surge in passengers, Auckland Council Priority Location Director for the city centre, Simon Oddie, says people will see that CRL is much more than a transport project.

“It’s a city-shaping investment. Our new station neighbourhoods have created places that connect people seamlessly to jobs, learning, culture and daily life, while supporting a more walkable, resilient and low-carbon city centre,” he says.

Renowned French urbanist Alain Bertaud said central Auckland’s public spaces are among the best he’s seen in the world, while visiting Auckland last week. (Source: BusinessDesk)

For more big-picture benefits, read more on OurAuckland.

And for more on the newly completed CRL station neighbourhoods read about the Waitematā Station neighbourhood and Karanga-a-Hape Station neighbourhood.

Everyday benefits

Councillor Andy Baker in Waitematā Station Plaza.

For a full outline of the new train lines, a City Rail Link information brochure is available in eight languages on the Auckland Transport website.

Once the CRL-enabled timetable is operational, the city’s twin underground 3.45km rail tunnels will make the rail network and bus connections more efficient – reducing travel times, improving access to the city centre and unlocking direct journeys across Auckland.

What does that mean in the north, south, east and west? This is a snapshot:

South

  • People who live in Papakura or near any station on the South City (S-C) line will have direct rail connections into the city with two more stations in central Auckland – Te Waihorotiu Station and Karanga-a-Hape Station. This opens up direct access to jobs, universities, restaurants, shops and theatres in the city centre.
  • From Te Waihorotiu Station, with entrances / exits at Wellesley and Victoria Streets, there will be frequent buses to the North Shore; and from Waitematā Station, buses and ferries to the North Shore are a short walk from the platforms.
  • In 2026, two new stations will open on the S-C line between Papakura and Pukekohe – Drury Station and Paerātā Station – with a third, Ngākōroa Station, to be built in Drury West. The stations will all have a bus interchange right outside. 65,000 people are predicted to live in Drury by 2050. That’s more than the population of Rotorua.
  • Onehunga residents will have the Onehunga West (O-W) line on their doorstep once CRL is operational, taking them further west as far as Henderson off peak – or to the city centre via a quick transfer at Newmarket Station.

North

  • The Northern Busway is an example of good investment in public transport infrastructure. The busway has proven to be easy to use, quick, cost-effective, frequent – and is well-used.
  • People arriving in downtown – at the Albert Street bus interchange – on the NX1 or on a ferry will simply walk through Te Komititanga – downtown’s central square – and step on a train at Waitematā Station.
  • Other North Shore buses – such as the NX2 –will arrive at the Wellesley Street bus interchange which sits at the heart of the CRL rail system, with quick and easy transfers to the rail network via Te Waihorotiu Station.

West

  • From day one of CRL the train journey from Henderson to the city centre will be quicker. The new CRL underground tunnels eliminate the need to go via Newmarket, creating a more direct trip, significantly reducing travel times.
  • The journey will take just 35 minutes from Henderson Station to Te Waihorotiu Station – getting to and from work in the city centre or into the midtown arts quarter in the evenings on one single train via the East West (E-W) line.
  • Operating until around 11pm seven days a week (every 30 minutes after 8pm), and a little later on Friday and Saturday nights, people will have the freedom to come and see a show in the city centre by train, without needing to think about parking, taxis or train changes.

East

  • Train trips from Glen Innes or any eastern station to the city centre are already fast because that section of Auckland’s rail system was built in the 1930s, so it’s flatter.
  • Before CRL, people would have taken multiple trains from the east to the west or south. With CRL, people will travel from stations in the east to Eden Park, Sylvia Park or Manukau, for example, on a single train using the E-W line.

*These are peak travel estimates using public transport. 

More information on the CRL transit map can be found in this document [695KBs].

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/04/01/fuel-disruption-brings-city-rail-link-benefits-into-sharper-focus/

Posted on

Border fee changes make system fairer

Source: New Zealand Government

A new levy regime that comes into effect today makes the goods management system fairer by better reflecting the risks and costs associated with clearing goods at the border, Customs Minister Casey Costello and Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said today. 

“The changes are about more fairly recovering costs and also address a significant increase in the volume of low-value goods (worth less than $1,000) crossing our border,” Ms Costello says. 

Low-value goods imports – people buying online from the likes of Amazon and Temu – more than tripled from 2017/18 to 2023/24, from 7.8 million packages to 24 million packages annually. 

“Businesses pay customs levies on the goods they import, but people shopping online in this way often didn’t,” Ms Costello says. “That growth meant substantially more processing work at the border and taxpayers were funding almost all the costs involved. That changes from today.”

“Customs and the Ministry for Primary Industries make a critical contribution to New Zealand’s economic prosperity and growth, by ensuring trade can flow as safely and efficiently as possible,” Mr Hoggard says.

“Between them, they protect against biosecurity risks, which could devastate our primary sector, and illegal drugs and other criminal activity that harms our communities costing our economy hundreds of millions of dollars every year, while also preventing illegal export activity and ensuring our exports are able to enter overseas markets with minimal delay or disruption.

“The new goods management fees properly reflect the costs of this work and sit within a long-standing government cost recovery framework where costs are recovered from those who use border services or create the need for them.”

“Customs calculates that over four years from 2025/26 to 2028/29, the new goods levy regime will shift NZ$71 million in costs from taxpayers to importers and exporters who create the need for border management services,” Ms Costello says.

The changes taking effect from today are:

  • Different rates for sea and air consignments for both high value goods – (over NZ$1000) and low value goods (less than NZ$1000 – Customs only).
  • Consignment-based charging for low value goods, replacing charges per cargo report.
  • Charging low-value goods transported by international mail.
  • Ending taxpayer subsidies for low-value goods and commercial vessels, with full cost recovery for Customs and MPI services.
  • The introduction of a commercial vessel charge.
  • The introduction of charging international transshipments and empty shipping containers. (Customs only) 

The changes were approved by Cabinet last year following extensive industry and public consultation. Customs and MPI have been working with industry stakeholders to ensure that the changes are implemented smoothly.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/04/01/border-fee-changes-make-system-fairer/