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Ducks euthanised after found hunting and killing native pūteketeke chicks

Source: Radio New Zealand

The adult pūteketeke didn’t see the danger as they don’t perceive ducks as a threat, DOC says. Supplied / Department of Conservation

Three murderous mallards have been euthanised after preying on pūteketeke chicks in Canterbury’s Mackenzie basin.

Department of Conservation (DOC) rangers were shocked when a person sent in photos of three ducks hunting and killing freshly hatched native pūteketeke (Australasian crested grebe) chicks next to Lake Alexandrina, south of Lake Tekapo.

The pūteketeke garnered international attention in 2023 when comedian John Oliver successfully campaigned for it to win the Forest and Bird’s Bird of the Century crown.

In a press release, DOC principal biodiversity ranger Dean Nelson said staff were horrified to see graphic photos of the chicks being eaten alive, as it was unusual for ducks to prey on other birds.

“Mallard ducks usually eat plant material, with a little bit of protein from insects and snails during the breeding season,” he said.

“It was shocking to see them eating pūteketeke chicks. We went out there straight away and I observed three mallard ducks in the outlet creek where the grebe nests are.”

Nelson said the ducks were “actively scoping out the pūteketeke nests to see if they had chicks”.

Pūteketeke are classed as nationally vulnerable birds. Supplied / Department of Conservation

“The adult pūteketeke didn’t see the danger as they don’t perceive the ducks as a threat.”

Duck behaviour of this nature was unknown to DOC’s experts, with further concern it could spread, as ducks learnt from each other, Nelson said.

“There was a case which was referenced in a research paper from a Cambridge University scientist describing how a group of mallard ducks were attacking and eating the chicks of two common bird species in Romania in 2017. It claimed this was a world first and the ducks may have been searching for a source of protein before laying eggs and nesting,” he said.

The person who raised concerns did the right thing by calling the department and taking photos as evidence, Nelson said.

“This is a great example of people taking action for nature and looking out for our vulnerable species. While some people think the pūteketeke is introduced because of its name (the Australasian crested grebe), the reality is they’re native and are classed as nationally vulnerable,” he said.

“We want the public to be really engaged with nature. People can be our eyes and ears out ‘naturing’ and that’s fantastic for us, as our rangers can’t be everywhere.”

Campers and boaties around Canterbury’s popular Lake Benmore shoreline were asked to look out for pūteketeke over the summer period last December following reports of nests being disturbed at the Ōhau C campground.

Many nests neighboured the boat ramp and spread out around the lake shore.

The pūteketeke colony had 40 to 50 nests annually for the last five breeding seasons and birds had raised their young much later than usual in the outlet creek next to Lake Alexandrina.

DOC staff had caught the three ducks in question with nets and removed them from the site and humanely euthanised them.

Staff were also heading out again on Wednesday to check no other mallard ducks had repeated the behaviour.

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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/2026/02/04/ducks-euthanised-after-found-hunting-and-killing-native-puteketeke-chicks/

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Lyttelton Port posts record half-year profit

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Nate McKinnon

Lyttelton Port Company has delivered record earnings and profit in the first half of its financial year, thanks to strong growth in bulk imports and exports.

Total revenue was $108.5 million for the six months ending 31 December, an increase of 7.6 percent on the same period last year.

Operating earnings (EBITDA) rose 15.4 percent to $35.8 million, while net profit after tax increased 19.2 percent to $14.6 million.

Bulk cargo volumes rose 13 percent year-on-year in the first half.

LPC chief executive Graeme Sumner said the results were another step on the road towards a financially sustainable organisation.

“This growth demonstrates the ongoing resilience of our bulk operations and the important role the port continues to play in supporting Canterbury’s and the South Island economy,” he said.

“Our cost base remains carefully managed and aligned with the future needs of the organisation.”

Lyttelton Port Company is 100 percent owned by Christchurch City Holdings, the investment arm of the Christchurch City Council.

The port reported no significant health and safety events in the six months to the end of December.

Sumner acknowledged staff for their professionalism and commitment, saying their work continued to underpin the port’s safety and success.

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/2026/02/04/lyttelton-port-posts-record-half-year-profit/

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State of emergency in Tai Rāwhiti extended

Source: Radio New Zealand

SUPPLIED

The state of emergency in Tai Rāwhiti has been extended following extreme weather two weeks ago.

The declaration on 21 January came as heavy rain and severe flooding swept across the North Island, battering communities on the East Coast.

Tairāwhiti Civil Defence said the state of emergency had been extended for another seven days until 11 February to keep support in place.

The declaration provides Civil Defence emergency powers including closing roads, undertaking earthworks, and entering properties.

Significant slips have cut off access to many communities, with a massive landslide on State Highway 35 separating Hicks Bay and Te Araroa.

In a recent update, the Transport Agency said State Highway 35 between the townships was now open to emergency services only.

“Roadworkers have made access across the slip at Punaruku, at the Hicks Bay end of SH35, but the road remains closed.

“There’s a lot more work to do in the area before we can open this section of the road to anyone other than emergency and lifeline services.”

The highway into Te Araroa from the south – which had been accessible by convoy only – was now open.

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/2026/02/04/state-of-emergency-in-tai-rawhiti-extended/

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Person dies after crash in Wellington driveway

Source: Radio New Zealand

The crash in the Wellington suburb of Miramar occurred in a private driveway. RNZ / Cole Eastham-Farrelly

Police say one person died after a crash on a driveway in the Wellington suburb of Miramar.

The crash which involved a car and a pedestrian happened in a private driveway on Mapuia Road last Friday.

The victim died of their injuries on Tuesday.

Police said they were continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash.

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/2026/02/04/person-dies-after-crash-in-wellington-driveway/

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Labour lambasts coalition over job figures

Source: Radio New Zealand

Chris Hipkins says the latest unemployment figures are an indictment on the coalition. RNZ / Mark Papalii

The Labour Party says the government is in denial about the damage it has done to New Zealand’s economy, after the latest job market figures.

Unemployment has risen to its highest level in more than a decade, with more people chasing work than jobs created, while wage growth slows further.

Stats NZ numbers showed the unemployment rate rising to 5.4 percent in the three months ended December, from 5.3 percent in the previous quarter.

It was the highest level since March 2015 and worse than forecast by economists and the Reserve Bank.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis said while she would prefer the unemployment rate was lower, the underlying details were positive.

“We are working very hard to get unemployment to come down. What is positive to see is that 15,000 more jobs were created in the past three months, that the hours people are working are increasing, that more people are feeling optimistic about getting a job, so are entering that workforce.

“So that’s really positive to see and what economists are interpreting that data to mean is that we are getting that stabilization and recovery in the economy.”

‘Incredibly embarrassing’ – Labour

Labour leader Chris Hipkins said the latest unemployment figures were an indictment on the coalition.

“I don’t think the government can spin their way out of this. They’ve been saying for over a year now that unemployment had peaked and that things were getting better, that there were green shoots in the economy, and for so many New Zealand families, things have continued to get worse.

“These are real people with real lives that cannot find work when they need it. Christopher Luxon, Nicola Willis, the whole government need to own up to the fact that they are making things worse, not better.

“This is incredibly embarrassing for Nicola Willis, but it’s worse for the families who can’t find work when they need it.”

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson said the figures showed the three party coalition was a “government of despair”.

“There are more people without jobs and without income now, under this government, than at any time in over ten years.

“Food banks are overwhelmed. Homelessness is everywhere.

“Those who are fortunate enough to have jobs still have it tough. Groceries and bills continue to rise ahead of wages for many workers,” Davidson said.

“A just government would be fighting to make sure everyone had the means to have a good job, food on the table, and a safe place to call home.”

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/2026/02/04/labour-lambasts-coalition-over-job-figures/

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Pedestrian seriously injured after car crash in Canterbury’s Springston

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ

A person has been seriously injured after a car crash in Springston in Canterbury on Wednesday.

Police were notified of the crash, involving a car and a pedestrian, around 3.30pm.

Initial indicators were that the pedestrian had received serious injuries, police said.

Leeston Road was closed and diversions were in place at the Goulds Road and Leeston Road intersection and at the Bethels Road and Leeston Road intersection.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

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/2026/02/04/pedestrian-seriously-injured-after-car-crash-in-canterburys-springston/

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Charges laid following warrants targeting gang

Source: New Zealand Police

Two men linked to the Comanchero Motorcycle Club will face serious drugs and firearms charges, after searches at south-east Auckland properties.

Investigators from the Motorcycle Gang Unit, part of the wider National Gang Unit, executed three search warrants across Flat Bush this morning.

Detective Inspector Wayne Gray, from the National Gang Unit, says two men were arrested at separate addresses.

“Today’s enforcement activity targeted a patched member and an associate of the Comancheros,” he says.

“As a result, we have located a press that will be alleged to have been used to press bricks of cocaine.

“Police have also seized a loaded pistol at one address.”

At another address, nearly a kilogram of a cutting agent was located along with around 64 grams of methamphetamine.

A 33-year-old patched Comanchero is facing a charge of conspiracy to deal methamphetamine.

Meanwhile, a 30-year-old associate of the gang has been charged with possession for supply of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of a pistol and unlawfully possessing ammunition.

Both men are expected in the Manukau District Court this afternoon.

“It’s no secret that the Comancheros gang continue to impose suffering and a negative influence on many communities across this country,” Detective Inspector Gray says.

“Police remain committed to using every opportunity to prevent and disrupt this criminal activity from occurring, and today’s enforcement is a good example of that.”

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/charges-laid-following-warrants-targeting-gang/

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MPs urged to vote down anti-worker law

Source: NZCTU

A collective of 49 unions, lawyers, NGOs, academics, former Workplace Relations Ministers, and current spokespeople have co-signed an open letter calling on all Members of Parliament to vote against the Employment Relations Amendment Bill, currently before the House.

“These changes threaten every single worker in Aotearoa. This is the most anti-worker Bill we’ve seen in decades,” said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey.

“Working people have a basic right to seek remedies for unjustifiable and unlawful dismissal. This Bill effectively destroys that right, leaving workers completely exposed to abuses of power by their employers.

“The Bill also allows employers to misclassify employees as contractors, and to strip them of basic entitlements like holiday pay and sick leave. This has the potential to undermine worker rights completely in some industries and will lead to the destruction of rights in many others over time.

“This Bill was clearly opposed during the select committee process, with employment experts and working people signalling that it will dramatically worsen an imbalance of power that already benefits employers. The majority of the submissions on the Bill were against it.

“We are asking every Member of Parliament to listen to the public, experts, and those impacted most by these changes, and vote this Bill down at the next reading.

“This dangerous Bill must not proceed,” said Grey.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/mps-urged-to-vote-down-anti-worker-law/

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Fatal crash: Miramar

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died following a crash involving a car and a pedestrian on Mapuia Road on Friday 30 January. 

Police were notified of the crash around 4.40pm, on a private driveway.

Sadly, the victim passed away yesterday from their injuries.

Police continue to investigate the circumstances of the crash.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/fatal-crash-miramar/

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Key concession decision provides certainty for Milford tourism

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  20 January 2026 Source:  Office of the Minister of Conservation

The next step will be to negotiate the terms and conditions of the concession.

“My focus is on fixing the basics by making sure core visitor infrastructure works well, while also building the future by providing the certainty needed to plan and invest,” Mr Potaka says.

‘We are focused on protecting our world-class natural environment, supporting jobs and regional economies, and ensuring visitors can experience Milford Sound Piopiotahi safely and responsibly.”

The concession will enable Milford Sound Tourism Limited to continue managing the visitor terminal and car parks through to 2050, providing long-term certainty for essential infrastructure in one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most important conservation areas. That certainty comes with expectations to work transparently with the community and the Department to realise our aspirations for this special place.

“Milford Sound Piopiotahi is a taonga for all New Zealanders, and it is important we get the balance right between conservation protection and safe, well-managed access.”

Milford Sound Tourism Limited has operated in the area for several decades and recently announced a shareholder partnership with Ngāi Tahu.

“I welcome that partnership. It strengthens alignment with Tangata Whenua and recognises the deep cultural significance of this place.”

“I have asked officials to progress this work over the coming months, including appropriate measures to carry out statutory obligations, provide for the capital investment the area needs, and to consider wider tourism system interests.”

The decision builds on the Government’s wider commitment to conservation and tourism in the Milford corridor, including an $8.2 million investment from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy.

“This decision ensures Milford Sound Piopiotahi is cared for properly, now and into the future,” Mr Potaka says.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/key-concession-decision-provides-certainty-for-milford-tourism-2/

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‘Loud and proud’ teens descend on Treaty Grounds as part of six-day hīkoi

Source: Radio New Zealand

The hīkoi makes its way through Kerikeri on Wednesday morning. Supplied / Kishea Pihema-Wilson

Teenagers taking part in a hīkoi from Cape Rēinga to the Treaty Grounds this week say they’re standing up for future generations and sending a message to the government about honouring Te Tiriti.

About 60 people, many carrying banners and flags, took part in this morning’s leg of the march through Kerikeri’s town centre.

The are due to arrive at Waitangi on Friday morning.

The six-day hīkoi combines driving, walking and running, with many participants taking turns to run the length of Ninety Mile Beach on the first day, and planning to run between the Far North towns of Moerewa and Kawakawa today.

The march is a tradition stretching back decades, with this year’s theme, Mana Mokopuna, reflected in the large number of youth taking part.

Karirikura Taipari, 16, of Ahipara, said she was doing it to support future generations.

“And to make sure our generation knows how to stand up for their rights,” she said.

Taipari said she was looking forward to bringing the hīkoi’s message to Waitangi on 6 February.

The hīkoi made its way through Kerikeri on Wednesday morning, on is way from Cape Rēinga to Waitangi. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

Even if the government succeeded in sidelining the current generation, they couldn’t get rid of future generations, she said.

Capri Murray, 17, of Whangape, said she hoped that their message was “coming through loud and proud”.

“We’re doing all of this walking everywhere and heaps of running, so they should be getting the message – especially since it’s not just for us, it’s for everyone.”

Her call to the country’s leaders was to “honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi, because it was here before you were”.

Fifteen-year-old Kendra Matiu, from Kaitāia, said her aim was to tautoko [support] her whānau and future generations.

“It’s been really fun and we’ve been to a lot of places, and we’ve done a lot of running … that’s not really fun, but it’s cool when people support us.”

Haare Kawiti, 19, of Wellington, said he’d had experiences he wouldn’t forget, like sleeping on the ground in Kerikeri and running on Ninety Mile Beach.

“That was pretty tough … I’m doing it to celebrate our culture and uplift the tamariki out there – even though I probably still count as one,” he said.

Coordinator Rueben Taipari said the group left Te Rerenga Wairua (Cape Rēinga) on Sunday, marching through Kaitāia and Kāeo and staying overnight at Waimanoni and Kenana marae.

The hīkoi made its way through Kerikeri on Wednesday morning, on is way from Cape Rēinga to Waitangi. RNZ / Peter de Graaf

On Tuesday night they camped near Kerikeri’s Kororipo Pā, a hugely significant site due to be returned to Ngāpuhi next month.

Tonight they would be hosted by Ngāti Hine at Waiomio Marae, south of Kawakawa.

Taipari said no one could argue with the theme of this year’s hīkoi.

“Everybody should be thinking about a better future for their children and grandchildren. With all these fascist, racist governments, the world is in chaos. But we wanted to bring something different – to still make a strong statement, but to have a positive reason for marching.”

Taipari said many of New Zealand’s problems today would not exist if society was always focussed on future generations.

“Three generations ago, people did have that concept. They built good infrastructure, they invested taxes to make a good, strong country. But that hasn’t been happening for the past few generations, and I think that’s where the problems are. We’re not thinking about the good of society and the nation. We’re just thinking about ourselves.”

Taipari said the purpose of the hīkoi was whakawhanaungatanga, or making connections among people.

“But it’s also a physical thing to capture that mauri [life force] we bring from Te Rerenga Wairua, and connect it to every community and every tribe and every hapū that we pass through … It builds a strong movement and continues to uphold that living document of Te Tiriti Waitangi.”

Taipari said he was never concerned about the numbers taking part, but this year’s hīkoi had a particularly “intense energy” thanks to the large proportion of young people.

He was coordinating the march but rangatahi [youth] were making the decisions, he said.

“People complain about young people being on their devices all the time and say they don’t do anything. Well, I’ve seen a different energy on this hīkoi. And I’d say that’s an analogy for the future. Watch out everybody. They’re coming.”

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/2026/02/04/loud-and-proud-teens-descend-on-treaty-grounds-as-part-of-six-day-hikoi/

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Road closed, Leeston Road, Springston, Selwyn

Source: New Zealand Police

Leeston Road, Springston, Selwyn, is currently closed following a serious crash this afternoon.

Police were notified of the crash, involving a car and a pedestrian, around 3.30pm.

Initial indicators are that the pedestrian has received serious injuries.

The Serious Crash Unit have been advised and diversions are in place at the Goulds Road and Leeston Road intersection and at the Bethels Road and Leeston Road intersection.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

ENDS

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/road-closed-leeston-road-springston-selwyn/

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Māori organisations lead the way in affordable housing

Source: New Zealand Government

One year on from the Government’s $200 million investment to accelerate new affordable rental housing for whānau Māori, hundreds of homes are now moving from planning into delivery on the ground, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says.

“Since the investment was announced, 463 homes have been approved across 11 Māori-led housing projects, with 392 homes now contracted for delivery. Momentum is building, with over 260 homes already progressing through consents, infrastructure works and earthworks,” says Mr Potaka.

All of the homes are located in priority regions with high housing need, Te Tai Tokerau, Ikaroa–Rāwhiti, Tāmaki Makaurau, Waiariki, Te Tai Hauāuru and Hauraki–Waikato, helping to increase the supply of affordable rentals where it is needed most.

“Partnering with Māori housing providers is a practical way to address housing deprivation while building long-term housing capacity.

“This mahi is getting more homes built and into communities, while backing Māori organisations to lead delivery for their own whānau. These organisations understand their whenua, their people and the long-term needs of their communities.

“By increasing the supply of stable, affordable rental housing, we’re supporting better outcomes for whānau and Tamariki, and because these homes will be retained as affordable rentals for at least 25 years, this is an enduring investment in Māori housing.”

The three largest programmes supported through the funding include:

  • Toitū Tairāwhiti Housing Limited, delivering 150 homes across Ikaroa–Rāwhiti
  • Te Hau Ora o Ngāpuhi, delivering 100 homes across Kaikohe
  • Ngāti Whakaue Tribal Lands, delivering 80 homes in Rotorua

Homes are being delivered progressively, with construction continuing across multiple sites and further projects in the pipeline for approval.

“The progress in Māori-led affordable housing reflects the Government’s broader focus on fixing the housing system and enabling long-term supply.

“Alongside this work, the Government is focused on unlocking land for housing, supporting infrastructure, and reducing the barriers and costs that slow down building.

“One year on, the progress we’re seeing in Māori-led housing highlights what can be achieved when we focus on delivery, by fixing the immediate shortages while building a stronger foundation for the future. That approach will continue as we work to make it easier to build the homes New Zealand needs to support economic growth and future prosperity.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/maori-organisations-lead-the-way-in-affordable-housing/

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North Coromandel campsites reopen as clean-up continues

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  04 February 2026

Northern Coromandel was heavily impacted by intense weather events in late January, damaging several of the popular DOC campsites around the northern tip of the peninsula – and the roads used to access them.

Nick Kelly, DOC’s Coromandel Operations Manager, says all five of the north Coromandel campsites – Stony Bay, Waikawau, Fletcher Bay, Fantail Bay, and Port Jackson – were affected by the extreme weather which swept across the north of the country.

“They were closed due to infrastructure issues at and around the campsites, including damage to public roads, says Nick.

“The team has worked really hard, with the support of contractors, to ensure we can reopen Fletcher Bay, Fantail Bay and Port Jackson for the long weekend.

“It’s been a hectic few days, with a lot of challenges and logistics to work through alongside other agencies, but we’re pleased to have these beautiful campsites available for visitors this weekend so they can enjoy a Waitangi getaway.”

The north Coromandel campsites offer a basic and classic kiwi coastal camping experience, in idyllic and isolated locations.

Nick says Waikawau and Stony Bay campsites remain unavailable due to a combination of at-place infrastructure issues – particularly water supply – and the situation with the roads in the immediate area.

“Those two campsites will be closed for at least another week, and we’ll update our website pages for those facilities once they’re available again.”

The track to Mautohe Cathedral Cove reopened on Friday 30 January, after extensive work to clear debris and mud, and a geotechnical inspection, following the storm events.

Nick reiterated the need for visitors to be aware of the risks if visiting the picturesque cove and not to use any of the closed tracks across the Recreation Reserve.

“This is a known landslide and rockfall risk area – we urge people to be very conscious of this if they plan to visit. Lingering beneath the cliffs or under the famous rock arch is strongly discouraged.”

Part of DOC’s risk management for Mautohe Cathedral Cove is to monitor known landslip areas, and that will continue. Heavy rain is a trigger for the closure of the track to mitigate the landslide and rockfall risk to visitors, and that closure is communicated publicly. The track is only reopened after inspections.

Recent events on the East Coast and in Mt Maunganui – along with advice previously obtained by DOC – have shown the risk to public safety must be carefully managed based on reliable information.

There has also been a landslide on the closed Hahei coastal track to Grange Rd – reinforcing the previous decision not to repair and reopen that part of the track network. Work to completely decommission the closed section of the track is scheduled.

Reinstatement work at Waimata Gemstone Bay remains on hold and the track is currently closed.

Visitors should check the DOC website for alerts on tracks or facilities – these alerts will publicise closures as needed following inspections. People are also urged to check websites and social media channels for Thames Coromandel District Council, Hauraki District Council and NZTA.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/north-coromandel-campsites-reopen-as-clean-up-continues/

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Unemployment at 10-year high

Source: NZCTU

Unemployment data released by Stats NZ today shows that working people are bearing the cost of the Government’s economic mismanagement, said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey.

“Unemployment has risen to levels we haven’t seen in a decade. 164,000 people are now unemployed, up 39,000 in just two years. There are 7,600 more young people unemployed than a year ago.”

“The Government has no plan to tackle this growing emergency. Instead of real solutions, they’re promising more spending cuts, more workers thrown on the scrap heap.”

“With Waitangi just around the corner, it’s worth reflecting on the fact that Māori unemployment continues to be a huge concern. Māori unemployment was 11.2% in December 2025 – more than twice the national average.  There are now 13,800 more Māori unemployed than two years ago.”

“The Government’s policies are making it harder for working people, their whānau, and their communities to get ahead. There is no recovery in the economy unless people are feeling it. The numbers show that right now they are not,” said Grey.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/unemployment-at-10-year-high/

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Firefighters face repeat trauma. We learned how to reduce their risk of PTSD

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meaghan O’Donnell, Professor and Head, Research, Phoenix Australia, Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, The University of Melbourne

In their day-to-day work, first responders – including police, firefighters, paramedics and lifesavers – often witness terrible things happening to other people, and may be in danger themselves.

For some people, this can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which usually involves intrusive memories and flashbacks, negative thoughts and emotions, feeling constantly on guard, and avoiding things that remind them of the trauma.

But our research – which tested a mobile app focused on building resilience with firefighters – shows PTSD isn’t inevitable. We found depression, anxiety and PTSD symptoms were less likely when firefighters used a mental health program that was self-led, specifically addressed trauma and focused on teaching practical skills.

First responders’ mental health

First responders report high rates of psychiatric disorders and often have symptoms of depression (such as persistent feelings of sadness), anxiety (such as nervousness or restlessness) and post-traumatic stress (including distressing flashbacks).

Sometimes symptoms aren’t severe enough for a diagnosis.

But left untreated,these “sub-clinical” symptoms can escalate into PTSD, which can severely impact day-to-day life. So targeting symptoms early is important.

However, stigma – as well as concerns about confidentiality and career implications – can prevent first responders from seeking help.

What we already knew about building resilience

For the past decade, we have been testing a program designed to give people exposed to traumatic events the skills to manage their distress and foster their own recovery.

The “Skills for Life Adjustment and Resilience” (SOLAR) program is:

  • skills-based – it teaches people specific strategies and tools to improve their mental health
  • trauma-informed, meaning it has been designed for people who have been exposed to trauma, and avoids re-traumatisation
  • and has a psychosocial focus, focusing on what people can do in their relationships, behaviour and thinking to improve their mental health.

Participants complete modules focused on:

  • the connection between physical health and mental health
  • staying socially connected
  • managing strong emotions
  • engaging and re-engaging in meaningful activities
  • coming to terms with traumatic events
  • managing worry and rumination.

The SOLAR program trains coaches to deliver these modules in their communities. Importantly, these coaches don’t necessarily have specific mental health training, such as Australian Red Cross volunteers, community nurses and case workers.

What our new research did

The evidence shows the SOLAR program is effective at improving wellbeing and reducing depression, post-traumatic stress and anxiety symptoms.

But working with firefighters in New South Wales, they told us they wanted a self-led program they could complete confidentially, independently of their employer, and in their own time – a mobile app. So we wanted to test if the program would still be effective delivered this way.

A total of 163 firefighters took part in our recent randomised control trial, either using the app we co-designed with them, or a mood monitoring app.

A mood monitoring app tracks daily emotions to help understand patterns in how someone is feeling. There is evidence to show it can be useful for some people in reducing symptoms.

But this kind of app doesn’t teach a person practical skills that can be applied to different situations. And it does not specifically address stressful or traumatic experiences. So we wanted to test if taking a skills approach made a significant difference.

The app was self-directed, so firefighters could complete modules in their own time.
Spark Digital

What we found

Eight weeks after they started using one of the two apps, we followed up with the firefighters.

The study found those who used the SOLAR app had significantly lower symptoms of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress, compared to those in the mood monitoring group.

We followed up with participants again three months after their post-treatment assessment.

We found:

  • depression was much lower in the group who learned practical skills about trauma, compared to those who used the mood monitoring app, and
  • anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms had reduced significantly for both groups since starting their program (but there was no real difference between them).

What does this mean?

Both apps improved mental health.

But the results show using the SOLAR app, which focused on building skills and specifically addressing trauma, reduced mental symptoms more quickly. It was especially useful for tackling depression longer term.

Firefighters also told us they liked the app. This is important – an app is only effective when people use it.

Around half of the firefighters started using it completed all the modules. This is much higher than usual for mental health apps. Typically, only around 3% of those who start using a mental health app complete them.

The more modules a firefighter completed, the more their mental health improved.

The takeaway

It’s common for firefighters and other first responders to struggle with mental health symptoms. Our study demonstrates the importance of intervening early and teaching practical skills for resilience, so that those symptoms don’t develop into a disorder such as PTSD.

A program that is self-led, confidential and evidence-based can help protect the mental health of first responders while they do the work they love, protecting us.

Meaghan O’Donnell (Phoenix Australia) receives funding from government funding bodies such as National Health and Medical Research Council, and Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and philanthropic bodies such as Wellcome Trust Fund (UK), Latrobe Health Foundation, and Ramsay Health Foundation. Funding for this study in this Conversation article was from icare, NSW.

Tracey Varker (Phoenix Australia) receives funding from government funding bodies such as Department of Veterans’ Affairs, and philanthropic foundations such as Latrobe Health Services Foundation. Funding for the study described in this Conversation article was from icare NSW.

– ref. Firefighters face repeat trauma. We learned how to reduce their risk of PTSD – https://theconversation.com/firefighters-face-repeat-trauma-we-learned-how-to-reduce-their-risk-of-ptsd-269283

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/02/04/firefighters-face-repeat-trauma-we-learned-how-to-reduce-their-risk-of-ptsd-269283/

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ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for February 4, 2026

ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on February 4, 2026.

You spin some, you lose more: how Albanese’s gambling rhetoric falls short
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Rohann Irving, Research Fellow, Flinders University As a new parliamentary year resumes, politicians such as the ACT’s David Pocock have renewed their calls for legislation to tackle Australia’s gambling losses, which are the worst in the world per capita. When questioned about its lack of action on

An ‘AI afterlife’ is now a real option – but what becomes of your legal status?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wellett Potter, Senior Lecturer in Law, University of New England ziphaus/Unsplash Would you create an interactive “digital twin” of yourself that can communicate with loved ones after your death? Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has made it possible to seemingly resurrect the dead. So-called griefbots or deathbots –

What the RBA wants Australians to do next to fight inflation – or risk more rate hikes
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Meg Elkins, Associate Professor in Economics, RMIT University When the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) board voted unanimously to lift the cash rate to 3.85% on Tuesday, the decision was driven by one overriding concern. It wants to stop the rising cost of living from becoming entrenched.

Big Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi delegation joins Māori in solidarity over Te Tiriti
Asia Pacific Report Ka Lāhui Hawaiʻi, a Kanaka Maoli (Native Hawai’ian) initiative for self-determination and self-governance formed in 1987, has sent a 17-member Indigenous delegation to Waitangi to stand in solidarity with Māori in defence of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The delegation is present to “stand alongside Māori leadership, strengthen international solidarity, and affirm the

Why preferential voting is superior to first past the post
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne The South Australian state election will be held on March 21. Preferential voting will be used to elect members for all 47 single-member lower house seats. This

Is NZ defence and intelligence policy aligning with AUKUS in all but name?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nicola Macaulay, Senior Tutor and PhD Candidate, Centre for Defence and Security Studies, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa – Massey University NZ Defence Force Across the Pacific and the Southern Ocean, New Zealand has been trying to strike a careful balance in its defence and surveillance approach. While

High Court defeat piles pressure on ’embarrassed’ Fiji PM Rabuka’s leadership, says academic
By Koroi Hawkins, RNZ Pacific editor A court ruling in favour of Fiji’s dismissed anti-corruption chief has “embarrassed” Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, a New Zealand-based Fiji politics academic says. University of Canterbury distinguished professor Steven Ratuva told RNZ Pacific Waves that while the Fiji High Court decision on Barbara Malimali offered “clarity” on the separation

The fall of Peter Mandelson and the many questions the UK government must now answer
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Martin Farr, Senior Lecturer in Contemporary British History, Newcastle University Peter Mandelson and Keir Starmer pictured in February 2025. Flickr/Number 10, CC BY-NC-ND No accident waiting to happen can ever have delivered on its promise so spectacularly as Lord Mandelson, with the continuous revelations of his ties

The rise and fall (and rise again) of gold prices – what’s going on?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By David McMillan, Professor in Finance, University of Stirling i viewfinder/Shutterstock In late January, the gold price reached an all-time peak of around US$5,500 (£4,025). January 30 saw one of the largest one-day falls in prices, which sank by nearly 10% after hitting a record high only the

A brief history of table tennis in film – from Forrest Gump to Marty Supreme
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jeff Scheible, Senior Lecturer in Film Studies, King’s College London Table tennis and film have a surprisingly entangled history. Both depended on the invention of celluloid – which not only became the substrate of film, but is also used to make ping pong balls. Following a brief

Winter Olympic security tightens as US-European tensions grow
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Keith Rathbone, Senior Lecturer, Modern European History and Sports History, Macquarie University Since the murder of 11 Israeli hostages at the 1972 Munich Summer Olympics, security has been fundamental for games stakeholders. The 2024 Paris games set new benchmarks for security at a mega-event, and now the

I studied 10 years of Instagram posts. Here’s how social media has changed
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By T.J. Thomson, Associate Professor of Visual Communication & Digital Media, RMIT University Antoine Beauvillain/Unsplash Instagram is one of Australia’s most popular social media platforms. Almost two in three Aussies have an account. Ushering in 2026 and what he calls “synthetic everything” on our feeds, Head of Instagram

Voluntary assisted dying isn’t available to all Australians. In 2026, this may finally change
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben White, Professor of End-of-Life Law and Regulation, Australian Centre for Health Law Research, Queensland University of Technology Voluntary assisted dying is now available almost everywhere in Australia. This means eligible adults can choose to end their lives with medical assistance. In November 2025, the Australian Capital

Potoroos digging for ‘truffles’ keep their forests healthy – but for how long?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emily McIntyre, PhD candidate in Ecology, The University of Melbourne Think truffles and you’ll probably think of France. But Australia is actually a global hotspot for truffle-like fungi, boasting hundreds of different species. Like culinary truffles, these truffle-like fungi produce underground sporing bodies rather than send up

New research shows Australians support buying local for different reasons – and not all will pay more
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Luckman, Professor of Culture and Creative Industries, Adelaide University We have now passed the annual Australia Day peak of calls urging us to “buy Australian” – especially lamb. The iconic green-and-gold “Australian Made, Australian Grown” logo, launched by then-Prime Minister Bob Hawke in 1986, turns 40

Olives have been essential to life in Italy for at least 6,000 years – far longer than we thought
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Emlyn Dodd, Senior Lecturer in Classical Studies, Institute of Classical Studies, School of Advanced Study, University of London; Macquarie University How far back does the rich history of Italian olives and oil stretch? My new research, synthesising and reevaluating existing archaeological evidence, suggests olive trees have been

Diabetes care in NZ: thousands of patient records reveal who’s being left behind
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Lynne Chepulis, Associate Professor, Health Sciences, University of Waikato Getty Images For the tens of thousands of New Zealanders who live with type 2 diabetes, managing the chronic condition can start to feel like keeping score. A patient is given a list of numbers by their doctor.

Not an artefact, but an ancestor: why a German university is returning a Māori taonga
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michael La Corte, Research Associate, Curation and Communication, University of Tübingen Restitution debates – the question of whether a cultural object should be returned from a museum or other collection to a person or community – often begin with a deceptively simple question: who owns an object?

‘Journalism is not a crime’ – US journalists arrested for covering ICE church protest
AMY GOODMAN: We begin today’s show looking at the arrests of two American journalists for covering a protest at the Cities Church [in the Minnesota Twin City of] St Paul, where a top ICE official serves as pastor. Former CNN anchor Don Lemon and independent journalist Georgia Fort from the Twin Cities were released last

OpenClaw and Moltbook: why a DIY AI agent and social media for bots feel so new (but really aren’t)
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Daniel Binns, Senior Lecturer, Media & Communication, RMIT University NurPhoto / Getty Images If you’re following AI on social media, even lightly, you will likely have come across OpenClaw. If not, you will have heard one of its previous names, Clawdbot or Moltbot. Despite its technical limitations,

Evening Report: https://eveningreport.nz/2026/02/04/er-report-a-roundup-of-significant-articles-on-eveningreport-nz-for-february-4-2026/

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New speed limits to keep kids safer at West Coast schools

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Installation and preparation for these VSLs – which indicate on electronic signs the reduced speed limit is in force – is now underway. They will operate at peak times at seven West Coast schools (see list of schools below).

This work by the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is part of the Government’s approach to setting speed limits under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024, which requires safer speeds outside schools by 1 July 2026. All eligible schools, including those on 100km/h roads, will have variable speed limits installed. At peak times, mainly before and after school, speed limits will drop to 30km/h or 60km/h, depending on the road and safety requirements.

“We know that these reduced speed limits, when in force at school drop-off and pick-up times, can make a real difference in keeping children and their families safe,” says NZTA Director of Regional Relationships, James Caygill.

An example below of existing Variable Speed Limit signage:

The coming addition of the VSLs is being welcomed at the OneSchool Global campus in Greymouth.

“Safety both at school and for our students as they travel to and from school is a priority for us at OneSchool Global,” says Campus Principal Pip Hateley.

“The Variable Speed Limit initiative provides an additional measure of safety for our students and a strong reminder for motorists to take increased caution and care around schools.”

The list of West Coast schools with new VSLs is as follows:

  • Granity School
  • Greymouth High School
  • St Canice’s School, Westport
  • Franz Josef Glacier School
  • OneSchool Global – Greymouth Campus
  • Ross School
  • Whataroa School

All VSL sites have been approved under the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2024 and will be legalised through the National Speed Limit Register, making them subject to enforcement when they ‘go live’. The VSLs operate for up to 45 minutes before and after the school bell and can also be activated for short periods at other times when there are significant numbers of children around.

Find out more about safer speeds outside schools here:

Safe speeds outside schools

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/new-speed-limits-to-keep-kids-safer-at-west-coast-schools/

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Low honey harvest expected as North Island beekeepers grapple with storm effects

Source: Radio New Zealand

Recent storms which have resulted in blocked roads have stopped beekeepers from getting to their hives. 123RF

Beekeepers blocked from getting to their hives mid-harvest due to roads closed by recent storms, are expecting a lighter and later honey harvest this year.

Storms across the upper North Island in mid-January caused widespread slips that shut roads and state highways, particularly in Bay of Plenty and the East Coast.

Barry Foster, an industry stalwart and semi-retired beekeeper of Tai Rāwhiti, said harvest was one of the busiest times of the year, but it was interrupted by the storms.

“The result is that numbers of beekeepers around the district have hives that they can’t access at the moment because of the lack of roads,” he said.

Foster said one beekeeper’s hives, truck and loader were still stuck in the Waioweka Gorge, that remained closed following slips.

“He needs this gear and he needs to access his hives to treat them for varroa mite, and other things.

“Thankfully, he’d taken his honey off then, but he can’t access important vehicles to do the rest of his 2000-odd boxes of honey he’s got to take off.”

A beekeeper tending his hives RNZ/Sally Round

Foster said the geology of the East Coast was fragile and the area had suffered a lot of slips, particularly north of Tolaga Bay.

“Te Araroa has been badly affected, it’s been cut off at the top of the East Cape. Roads are blocked from slips, so it’s having a multiplying effect.”

He said access was compromised for some affected beekeepers whose hives were found near wild mānuka crops in remote backcountry.

“It’s not just us that are affected, it’s farmers and beekeepers who can’t access their hives and do the things that they need to do in a timely manner, like harvest honey and control of bee mite, the varroa mite.”

He said moisture was a challenge in the hive.

“Bees need sun and warmth, and plants need the same to produce nectar and moisture too, but not too much moisture.

“Those are the combinations, so if you get a deluge, it’s affecting the whole linked ecosystem.”

A beekeeper inspecting a hive. Linda Newstom-Lloyd

Bad weather hits national honey harvest

Karin Koss, chief executive of industry group Apiculture New Zealand, said national honey production was down this year.

“Harvest started well, but the recent bad weather has seen the harvest fall short of early expectations,” she said.

Honey extraction business Gielen Family Farm of Motukarara in Banks Peninsula had a late harvest last year and this year too.

Co-owner Stacey Gielen said weather delayed harvest into late December.

“Our first job was just after Christmas. My customer in Ashburton; she always has really strong, really healthy hives,” she said.

“It’s been really great to see how much honey she brought in, because we certainly don’t see any sort of volume like that at home at the moment.”

Gielen said it was hard to say how the remainder of the season would go.

“If the weather’s going to carry on like that, I don’t think there’s going to be a lot of honey to go about for just local honey producers.”

Foster said many in the honey industry were cash-strapped after a few tough years of low honey sales.

But he said higher demand for pollination services from the booming horticulture sector was helping offset this.

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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/2026/02/04/low-honey-harvest-expected-as-north-island-beekeepers-grapple-with-storm-effects/

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Rugby League: Proposed kick-off rule change a no-go for NRL 2026

Source: Radio New Zealand

Tanah Boyd of the New Zealand Warriors. Brett Phibbs/www.photosport.nz

The Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) has decided not to proceed with a proposed kick-off rule change but fans will notice other on-field rule changes for the 2026 NRL season.

The ARLC confirmed rule changes on Wednesday following a consultation process with clubs, players, coaches and key stakeholders.

“After careful consideration of feedback received during the consultation period, the ARLC has decided not to proceed with the proposed kick-off rule change, which would have allowed the conceding team the option to kick off or receive the kick-off following a try.

“The ARLC acknowledged the strong engagement from stakeholders and noted that, while the proposal was initially supported in principle, consultation identified a number of concerns.”

The commission endorsed a trial of a proposed rule regarding the non-scoring team having the option of kicking-off or receiving from the restart. The change will be trialled in games with no bearing on the finals at the back end of the 2026 season before further consideration.

Chairman Peter V’landys said the decisions reflected the commission’s commitment to a consultative approach to rule changes.

“The consultation process was thorough and constructive, and while there was initial support for the kick-off proposal, stakeholders raised legitimate concerns,” V’landys said.

“After weighing that feedback carefully, the commission determined that it was not in the best interests of the game to proceed with that particular change at this time.

“The changes that are being implemented are intended to build on the success of the 2025 season by enhancing the entertainment value for fans, while also providing additional tactical options for coaches.”

The ARLC approved the following on-field rule changes

Trainer rules

Trainers will be restricted from entering the field of play to prescribed and clearly defined circumstances. This will ensure player safety remains the priority while reducing unnecessary intrusions by trainers carrying messages.

Interchange rules

Teams may interchange four players, up to eight times per match, from a squad of six players (players 14 to 19 inclusive).

Accidental breach (“zero tackle”) in-goal

There will be no seven-tackle set following a knock-on in-goal by the attacking team.

Restarting the tackle count

For certain infringements beyond the 20-metre line, the tackle count will restart, replacing the current 40-metre threshold.

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/2026/02/04/rugby-league-proposed-kick-off-rule-change-a-no-go-for-nrl-2026/