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New Zealand First’s Shane Jones questions circumstances behind Labour MP Peeni Henare’s shock resignation

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones. RNZ / Mark Papalii

New Zealand First deputy leader Shane Jones is questioning the circumstances behind Labour MP Peeni Henare’s shock resignation, believing the whole story is not being told.

On Tuesday, Henare announced he was calling time on his 12-year Parliamentary career, citing exhaustion and a desire to spend more time focusing on his family and future.

“It’s a bit of, I didn’t have enough in the tank. It’s a bit of understanding that I can continue to influence the way people vote outside of being an MP and outside of Parliament,” he said.

Henare also said some opportunities had presented themselves to him.

Labour MP Peeni Henare. RNZ / Angus Dreaver

While it was known Henare would not be contesting the Tāmaki Makaurau seat, his announcement he would not be standing at all came in the middle of a joint press conference by the Labour and Green Party leadership.

He told one media platform of his plans before Labour had the chance to put out its own announcement, but Labour leader Chris Hipkins, who initially refused to answer questions about the resignation, denied the announcement had been bungled.

“New Zealand’s a small place, and rumours swirl around. I don’t comment on rumours. I let people have their space to make their announcements, and that’s what I’ve done here.”

Speaking after the opening of the upgraded Haruru Falls Road around the back of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, Jones expressed his surprise at Henare’s retirement.

“I had no idea that Peeni was going to move on. Peeni’s grandfather was our paramount chief of the north, the last commander of the Māori Battalion, a dearly loved figure throughout all the tribes of the motu,” he said.

“I’m not across all the details, but I want to make sure that the story, when it’s fully told, that we focus on what’s happened because he struck me as a guy who had quite a large potential for politics.”

Jones said he was going to go and find out what had happened, and the “kumara vine” would inform him, but he thought Labour and Henare should be more forthcoming.

“That’s up to them to ensure that there’s a very comprehensive account as to what’s happened to this young leader of Te Tai Tokerau, and why he, all of a sudden, is departing from the Labour Party. I mean, whatever we think about Māori leadership, Peeni Henare is blessed with the lineage of leadership throughout the north.”

On Tuesday, Henare said things never went perfectly at Waitangi, with “a hui here and a hui there”, and because he was at a pōwhiri for the Governor-General, he admitted the timing had not worked out as well as he had thought.

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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/new-zealand-firsts-shane-jones-questions-circumstances-behind-labour-mp-peeni-henares-shock-resignation/

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Fog cancels 60 flights at Wellington Airport, more possible

Source: Radio New Zealand

Fog blankets Wellington harbour on 31 March 2022. RNZ / Rob Dixon

Wellington Airport says about 60 flights were cancelled on Tuesday due to fog in the capital.

It said there could be some disruption on Wednesday as a result, so passengers should check with their airline.

Jetstar said none of its flights were disrupted.

Air New Zealand has been approached for comment.

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/fog-cancels-60-flights-at-wellington-airport-more-possible/

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Spike in Taupō fishery offences prompts rules reminder

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  04 February 2026

The spike in peak summer trout fishery offences amounts to four times what it was for the same period last summer.

“There has been a concerning increase in people breaking the rules, which can have serious consequences for the fishery,” says Steve Doughty, Compliance Lead for DOC in the Taupō District.

“Anglers fishing without a valid licence was a common problem. Every angler must have a valid Taupō District fishing licence, which directly funds the ongoing management and protection of this special fishery.”

DOC manages the Taupō Fishing District as a sustainable wild trout fishery, attracting thousands of anglers each year. Fishing regulations are in place to protect the future of the fishery, with a team of DOC Fishery Rangers patrolling the fishery to ensure everyone follows the rules while fishing local lakes and rivers.

Steve says the Taupō trout fishery is well-known globally, and an entire section of the DOC website is dedicated to it – including information on the need for a valid licence, how to obtain one, and the fishery regulations.

“Other offences included using prohibited tackle, using more than one fishing rod per person, fishing within 200 m of a marker pole at a stream or river mouth, as well as more technical licence-based offences such as non-family members fishing on family licences.

“These offences were often due to people not familiarising themselves with the regulations, being in a rush to get on the water and go naturing through fishing, or just ignoring the regulations and hoping not to get caught.

“Those caught breaking the rules face formal warnings and fines of $400, and their fishing gear may also be seized,” Steve Doughty says.

During the holiday peak of December 2022 and January 2023, a total of 21 Taupō fishery offences were detected. There was a reduction for the same period in 2023-2024, with half that number of offences. But this season (summer 2025-2026) Fishery Rangers dealt with 40 offences – nearly four times the same period prior.

“The fishery is regulated for good reason,” says Steve. “DOC staff urge people to make sure they have a valid Taupō District fishing licence before they start fishing. Importantly, anglers should read and understand the fishing regulations.

“That way they can enjoy their fishing, secure in the knowledge they are supporting this magnificent wild trout fishery.”

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/spike-in-taupo-fishery-offences-prompts-rules-reminder/

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Climate change a priority for iwi leaders at Waitangi

Source: Radio New Zealand

The National Iwi Chairs Forum, representing more than 70 iwi, are meeting at Waitangi this week to set priorities for the year ahead. Supplied / National Iwi Chairs Forum

Climate change is a key focus for iwi leaders gathering at Waitangi this week, as coastal communities across the North Island recover from recent severe weather events.

The National Iwi Chairs Forum, representing more than 70 iwi, has been meeting to set priorities for the year ahead, with leaders pointing to the increasing frequency and severity of weather events as a growing concern.

Taane Aruka Te Aho, one of the rangatahi leaders of Te Kāhu Pōkere – the group that travelled to Brazil for COP30 last year – told RNZ that recent weather events across the motu have become a repeating pattern.

“The data shows us that these climate catastrophes are going to keep coming, more frequent, more severe. We’ve seen that in Te Tai Tokerau, in Tauranga Moana, in Te Araroa,” he said.

Layla Bailey-McDowell / RNZ

On behalf of Te Pou Take Āhuarangi, the climate change arm of the National Iwi Chairs Forum, Te Kāhu Pōkere attended the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP30) in November 2025.

They were the first iwi-mandated rangatahi Māori delegation to attend a global COP.

At this year’s forum, the rōpū is presenting its findings and what can be taken back to hapū, iwi and hapori.

“One of the key learnings for me was the importance of data sovereignty and data strategies harnessing environmental data to help us in our climate-based decision-making,” Te Aho said.

In the wake of flooding and storms in the north and east of the country, dozens of marae again opened their doors to displaced whānau, providing shelter, kai and serving as Civil Defence hubs.

Te Aho said those responses showed the strength of Māori-led systems of care.

“It’s paramount that we acknowledge our whānau, but also fund our whānau to keep resourcing, because they are the ones opening up their doors,” he said.

“To ensure not only our mokopuna are thriving, but to ensure our people of today can go back to work, that they’re looked after. Pākeke mai, rangatahi mai, kaumātua mai, kei konei te iwi Māori ki te tautoko i a rātou.”

Ōakura Community Hall had been devastated by a slip that smashed through the rear wall and filled the hall with mud, trees and debris on Sunday 18 January, 2026. Muddy water was continuing to flow out the hall’s front doors hours after the slip begun. The hall was only reroofed and renovated about 18 months ago, after a massive community fundraising effort. RNZ/ Peter de Graaf

Last month, the government announced a $1 million Marae Emergency Response Fund to reimburse marae for welfare support provided during the severe weather events, allowing them to “replenish resources and build resilience.”

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka said at the time, the fund “ensures marae are not left carrying the costs of that mahi”.

“Allowing them to replenish what was used, recover from the immediate response, and continue to build their resilience for future events.”

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon also praised the response from marae.

“Marae have been exceptional in the way they have stepped up to help their communities, providing shelter, food and care to people in need,” he said.

Rahui Papa (pictured right) says emergency centres at marae have been just “absolutely wonderful” following recent severe weather events across the coastal North Island. Supplied / National Iwi Chairs Forum

Pou Tangata chairperson Rahui Papa welcomed government support for marae but said long-term planning was needed.

“Back in Cyclone Gabriel, they talked about a 100-year weather event. It’s come up three or four times within the last few years,” he said.

“And I’m picking that, with my weather crystal ball… it’s going to happen time and time again.

“So comprehensive responses have to be employed. Emergency centres at marae have been just absolutely wonderful. I take my hat off to those communities and those marae that have worked together to really find a way to look after the community.”

Ngāti Hine chairperson Pita Tipene said climate change was one of the key issues being coordinated at a national level.

“There’s no point in planning for something next week and next month if we’re consigning our planet to the changes that are upon us,” he said.

“We only have to look at the devastation around Te Tai Tokerau, let alone Tauranga Moana and Tai Rāwhiti.”

Te Kāhu Pokere outside of Parliament. Supplied/Pou Take Āhuarangi

Tipene also acknowledged the contribution of Te Kāhu Pōkere.

“The young people who went to COP in Brazil and presented back to us said the solutions are in place and led by people. Their messages were very, very clear and the energy and the focus that they bring to those efforts is significant,” he said.

“The National Iwi Chairs Forum comes together because we know we have much more strength together than we are alone. And so coordinating our efforts into areas that will improve the circumstances of our people or protect and enhance the environments of our people, that’s our overall priority.”

Forum members also unanimously backed a legal challenge by Hauraki iwi Ngāti Manuhiri, which is [

https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/te-manu-korihi/585812/national-iwi-chairs-forum-backs-court-case-challenging-amendments-to-marine-and-coastal-areas-actt taking the government to the High Court] over amendments to the Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Act. The changes, made last year, raised the threshold for iwi seeking customary marine title.

Luxon is expected to meet with the forum at Waitangi on Wednesday.

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/climate-change-a-priority-for-iwi-leaders-at-waitangi/

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‘Significant financial implications’ for Mount businesses after deadly landslide

Source: Radio New Zealand

Six people died after a section of the maunga collapsed into a campground. Nick Monro

The head of a Mount Maunganui business association says local shops are trying to return to normal after the fatal Mauao landslide.

Six people died after a section of the maunga collapsed into a campground.

Mount Mainstreet manager Jay Banner told Morning Report locals had been grieving, but businesses needed the Mount to return to its usual vibrancy.

“We had a couple great events over the weekend with the Fisher concert, and it was great to see some joy being brought back into the town and boosting the moral of our locals.”

“We are looking for the community to get in behind and support local businesses, for people that are outside of town, you know, come have a weekend here, support local cafes and our hospitality sector, our retailers and help us move forward.”

Banner also acknowledged the cruise ship schedule provided some relief, but said summer was a time where hospitality and retail businesses made most of their money.

“To not be able to trade through this period had significant finical implications, not just for the immediate, but their plans for how they get through winter.”

He said the business association was looking into running events to “drag in a little bit of foot traffic”.

“We would love you all to come back into the Mount, we would welcome you with open arms,” he said.

“Many people have been reaching out to me and asking what they can do to support and that really is the way that you can support our local community, it keeps people employed it keeps businesses 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/significant-financial-implications-for-mount-businesses-after-deadly-landslide/

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Police incident, Whitiora

Source: New Zealand Police

Cordons are in place along Ulster Street and Abbotsford Street in Whitiora while Police respond to an incident.

Members of the public are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.

Further information will be issued when it becomes available.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/police-incident-whitiora/

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Media invitation to pōwhiri for new Eastern District Commander

Source: New Zealand Police

Eastern Police District is pleased to invite media to the pōwhiri for the new Eastern District Commander, Superintendent Joel Lamb.

Date:          Thursday, 12 February 2026
Time:          11:00 am
Venue:        Pukemokimoki Marae
Address:    191 Riverbend Road, Napier

Please RSVP to media@police.govt.nz

ENDS

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/media-invitation-to-powhiri-for-new-eastern-district-commander/

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MEDIA ADVISORY: Eighty-nine graduates for first police wing of 2026

Source: New Zealand Police

Media are invited to the 392 Raelene Castle recruit wing graduation.

What:              Graduation of the New Zealand Police 392 Recruit Wing.
Who:               For families and friends to celebrate with the 89 newly attested police officers.
Why:               Completion and graduation from their initial training course.
Where:            Te Rauparaha Arena, 17 Parumoana Street, Porirua.
When:             Thursday 5 December at 10am – media will need to be in place by 9.45am.
How:               RSVP the Police Media Centre if you’re attending: media@police.govt.nz

Deputy Police Commissioner Mike Pannett will attend the ceremony along with members of the Police executive and Wing Patron, Raelene Castle – Ngāpuhi, ONZM.

The 392 Wing Patron:

Raelene Castle, Ngāpuhi, is the Group Chief Executive of Sport New Zealand and High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ).  She joined HPSNZ in December 2020 and was appointed Group Chief Executive in April 2022. Before this, she spent seven years working in Australia as Chief Executive of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and then Chief Executive of Rugby Australia. She was previously Chief Executive of Netball New Zealand from 2007 to 2013.

Before beginning her career in sports administration, Raelene built a successful corporate career in communications, sales and marketing. This included general management and other senior roles at Telecom New Zealand (now Spark), Bank of New Zealand and Fuji Xerox. 
Raelene has held several governance roles in sport, previously serving as a board director of the ANZ Championship Netball, International Federations of Netball Associations, SANZAAR Rugby and the World Rugby Council.

She also has a rich sporting background as a former representative-level netball, tennis and lawn bowls player.

Raelene was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in 2015 for services to business and sport.

More details about statistics, prize winners and other recruits will be shared after graduation on Thursday and a follow up Ten One story will be published later this month. 

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/media-advisory-eighty-nine-graduates-for-first-police-wing-of-2026/

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Name release: Fatal crash, Hurunui

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash in Hurunui on Thursday 29 January.

He was 69-year-old David Moss, from the United Kingdom.

Our thoughts are with those close to him at this difficult time.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash remain ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/name-release-fatal-crash-hurunui/

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Te Whare Kounga gives Wairoa students more options

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Education Minister David Seymour has today announced that Te Whare Kounga will open as a new charter school in Term 3 2026. 

“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and grow in ways which are more specific to their needs. Today’s announcement demonstrates the innovation enabled by the charter school model,” Mr Seymour says.

“Te Papatipu Matihiko (the school sponsor) have been operating an alternative education programme in Wairoa for the last two years. That programme was a huge success. Students and schools were lining up to take part once space opened up. The charter school model has allowed them to meet some of this demand. 

“Wairoa has one of the highest rates in the country of young people not in employment, education or training. Te Whare Kounga recognises that mainstream education is failing these kids.

“Te Whare Kounga will ensure children in Wairoa have access to all the opportunities associated with an education. That is what they deserve. 

“Students will be met where they’re at and taught in ways that resonate with them. The curriculum will be hands-on and deeply local. Students may explore science through things like water quality testing, math’s through food production data, or literacy through Māori storytelling. Students will work towards NCEA.  

“To create a stronger sense of community and leadership, non NCEA subjects will be taught in mixed-age groups. 

“Charter schools show education can be different if we let communities bring their ideas to the table.

“These schools have more flexibility in return for strictly measured results.

“The charter school equation is: the same funding as state schools, plus greater flexibility plus stricter accountability for results, equals student success.

“There are more ideas in the communities of New Zealand than there are in the Government. That’s why we open ideas to the wider community, then apply strict performance standards to the best ones.

“It will join the five new charter schools announced in the last couple of weeks which will open in 2026. This takes the total number of charter schools to 18. We expect more new charter schools to be announced before the end of the year, along with the first state schools to convert.

“I want to thank the Charter School Agency and Authorisation Board for the work they have done getting charters open. They considered 52 applicants for new charter schools. This year they tell me the choices were very difficult.

“This is just the beginning. I hope to see many more new charter schools opening, and state and state-integrated schools converting to become charter schools.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/te-whare-kounga-gives-wairoa-students-more-options/

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Investing in the future of West Coast ports

Source: New Zealand Government

A major investment into Greymouth and Westport ports will boost coastal shipping and stimulate economic growth across the West Coast, Associate Transport and South Island Minister James Meager says.

The $5.3 million funding comprises of $4.3m for upgrades to the Port of Greymouth, and $1m for a regional safety programme to be shared with Westport Port. 

Crown funding stems from the Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund, with the Grey District and West Coast Regional Councils co-investing an additional $671,200 for both projects.

“Greymouth is the West Coast’s largest port but currently has limited ability to berth larger coastal shipping vessels due to the main freight wharf’s poor condition. Major works are required for it to accommodate freight traffic increases, which is essential if we want to grow the region’s economy,” Mr Meager says.

“This will include the reconstruction of up to 80 metres of currently unusable wharf to allow loading and unloading of cargo vessels. A roll-on, roll-off facility will also be built, to enable front loading craft to move large equipment and freight with ease.

“The upgrade will significantly increase the region’s resilience when completed in early 2028. It will create a much-needed avenue for essential supplies and equipment to be delivered by sea, in the event of a disaster which cuts off road and rail links.

“Additionally, a shared Regional Harbour Master programme will be established for both ports, alongside upgraded navigational aids. This will support commercial shipping’s return to Greymouth and ensure the longevity of both ports’ operations.”

West Coast-Tasman MP Maureen Pugh has welcomed investment, calling it an opportunity to grow the coastal shipping industry and tidy up the harbour.

“This is yet another investment into crucial infrastructure for the West Coast and reflects our commitment to fixing the basics and building the future,” Ms Pugh says.

Notes to Editor:

•            The Coastal Shipping Resilience Fund was established through the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport 2024. The $30 million fund invests in projects which enhance the sector’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from events that could disrupt New Zealand’s freight system.

•            This is the second confirmed recipient of the fund, following a recent investment in Eastland Port.

•            Installation of improved navigational aids is expected by the end of 2026, while a shared Regional Harbour Master programme is expected to be in place by the end of 2027.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/investing-in-the-future-of-west-coast-ports/

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DOC shock as ducks kill pūteketeke chicks

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  04 February 2026

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, just south of Lake Takapō/Tekapo.

The pūteketeke hit global headlines when comedian John Oliver successfully campaigned for the Australasian crested grebe to win the Forest & Bird, Bird of the Century crown in 2023.

DOC Principal Biodiversity ranger Dean Nelson says they were horrified to see graphic photos of pūteketeke chicks being eaten alive, knowing how unusual it is 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. 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. They were actively scoping out the pūteketeke nests to see if they had chicks.

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

This duck behaviour was unknown to DOC experts, and there was a concern that it would spread, as ducks learnt from each other, says Dean Nelson.

“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.”

Dean Nelson says the member of the public did exactly the right thing in calling DOC about the incident and taking photos as evidence, otherwise he says it would’ve been hard to believe.

“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.

“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,” he says.

Last December campers and boaties around the popular Lake Benmore shoreline in Canterbury were asked to look out for pūteketeke over the summer holidays after reports of nests being disturbed at the Ōhau C campground. Many nests were adjacent to the boat ramp and spread out around the lakeshore.

The pūteketeke colony has had 40 to 50 nests each year for the last five breeding seasons and birds have raised their young much later than usual in the outlet creek next to Lake Alexandrina. The ‘colonial’ style of nesting so close together makes them easy prey for predators.

DOC staff have caught the three offending ducks with nets and removed them from the site and humanely euthanised them. They are also heading out again today to check that no other mallard ducks have learnt the behaviour.

Anyone who sees sick, injured or at-risk native wildlife can ring 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Pūteketeke were once found throughout New Zealand but now they’re only found in the South Island living on lakes. At least 100 South Island lakes once had grebes but there has been a decline in Marlborough, the West Coast and Fiordland. Only Canterbury and Otago remain as strongholds. Predators include stoats, ferrets, cats, and raptors.

Australasian crested grebe/kāmana/pūteketeke

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/doc-shock-as-ducks-kill-puteketeke-chicks/

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Search for missing Invercargill man continues

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant John Kean:

Southland Police continue to search for Invercargill man, Kevin Belling, who was reported missing on Sunday 18 January.

Kevin, 62, was last seen at his Motu Rimu farm on Friday 9 January and has not been heard from for nearly four weeks now.

Police Search and Rescue and Land SAR teams have conducted extensive searches, and last Saturday focused on his Caeser Road property in Kapuka. The search involved foot search teams and a drone.

Unfortunately, Kevin has not been found and Police continue to appeal for any information that could help us find him.

Police urge the community to be vigilant and to check their rural properties for any sign of him.

It is very unusual for Kevin to not be in contact with anyone for this long, and Police and his loved ones have serious concerns for his welfare.

Anyone with information is urged to call 105 and reference file number 260118/6964.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre
 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/search-for-missing-invercargill-man-continues/

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School Boards Association says school boards should lower uniform costs

Source: Radio New Zealand

Last year more than 38,000 hardship payments were granted to help parents with school expenses. Unsplash / Curated Lifestyle

The School Boards Association says school boards should try to lower the cost of uniforms, if it is what parents want.

Last year, more than 38,000 hardship payments were granted to help parents with school expenses, including uniforms, totalling $11 million.

Thousands of Facebook users are also turning to online groups for second-hand sales to kit out their children, with Otago University public health researcher Johanna Reidy saying cost is a major concern for families.

She told RNZ one in 10 students reported their parents had borrowed money to pay for uniforms, while one in four said the cost was paid off over time. Even among families who paid up front, 20 percent said it caused worry.

The School Boards Association president Meredith Kennett told Morning Report that not putting a school emblem on a uniform and keeping the uniform plain might be one way to save money.

“Uniform suppliers talk about the additional cost of adding those little touches.

“That is definitely a question that the school board should be asking: Is that something we really need, or is the plain colour enough? It depends on what the purpose of the uniform is and what they are trying to achieve.”

She said that, depending on the school, parents might be willing to pay more for a school uniform with extra pieces or details.

“With Westlake Boys, for example, they are competing with surrounding private schools. All of those private schools dress like that, and they have a standard that the parent community expects them to uphold. So that is what the board is representing in that decision.

“One of the tricky things about being on a school board is you’re trying to balance the many opinions of your parent community, as well as potentially your business community, your local iwi ana hapū. It comes down to what the community wants.”

She said school boards also consider health and safety, incorporating the special character of the school, practicality and fitting a diverse student group, when setting uniform requirements.

“There are so many different things a school is looking at, depending on their focus and their own strategic plan.”

Price should reflect families’ circumstances – Willis

Finance Minister Nicola Willis told Morning Report the cost of uniforms “really stings”.

“My plea is to school boards, because school boards need to represent parents and their communities,” she said.

“When they’re deciding what the uniform requirements are, they should reflect the circumstances of the families that attend their school and not be unrealistic about the cost of the uniforms that they ask people to buy.”

Deputy prime minister David Seymour on Tuesday told First Up the prices of uniforms at some schools was “outrageous”.

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/school-boards-association-says-school-boards-should-lower-uniform-costs/

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Government backs fusion energy research

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is investing up to $35 million through the Regional Infrastructure Fund to help local start-up OpenStar Technologies position New Zealand at the forefront of the global research into fusion energy.

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says the loan will support the creation of a specialised facility for OpenStar’s next fusion machine.

“The successful development of fusion is the holy grail of energy production. It could be a game-changer for this country’s energy security, economy and environment,” Mr Jones says.

Fusion energy is an emerging technology that seeks to replicate the process

powering the Sun by fusing light atoms into a larger atom, releasing a vast

amount of carbon-free energy.

“New Zealand’s OpenStar Technologies, led by Dr Ratu Mataira,  is one of more than 50 companies worldwide competing to deliver a breakthrough in fusion energy. OpenStar is developing a different design approach to its competitors which offers advantages in stability, cost and scalability,” Mr Jones says. 

“Over a century ago, New Zealand scientist Ernest Rutherford pioneered nuclear science. Today we are backing New Zealanders to lead the next big breakthrough in harnessing fusion energy, a technology that could deliver significant benefits for our country and the world.

“The Government’s substantial investment in the project will help anchor a bespoke fusion energy research and development facility in New Zealand.

“It will also enable OpenStar to scale up its research and development programme, helping to attract international investment and creating high-value jobs here in New Zealand.

“The project has the potential to uncover spinoff applications for the aerospace and medical technology sectors. These could potentially have enormous benefits in the medium term, while the technology further evolves towards the ultimate goal of delivering fusion energy.

“This funding supports infrastructure that drives economic growth, fosters innovation, boosts productivity and strengthens energy security,” Mr Jones says.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/government-backs-fusion-energy-research/

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Important Treaty Grounds route upgraded

Source: New Zealand Government

Road access to one of New Zealand’s most important cultural sites, the Waitangi Treaty Grounds, has been upgraded in time for Waitangi Day events, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.

Haruru Falls Rd, which provides a secondary route to the Treaty Grounds without going through Paihia, received a $1.57 million grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to seal the remaining 3.7km of metal road.

“Anyone familiar with the road will know that it was a dusty, uneven and sometimes treacherous route because it was partially unsealed,” Mr Jones says.

“This upgrade will ensure safe and resilient access for the thousands of local and international visitors to what is one of New Zealand’s most historic and culturally important sites. The Treaty Grounds also house Te Rau Aroha – the 28th Māori Battalion Museum. These hugely important parts of our history now have a road that goes some way to fitting their stature.”

The sealing project was completed just days before Waitangi Day celebrations.

Mr Jones officially opened the upgraded Haruru Falls Road at a ceremony today along with iwi leaders, trustees of the Waitangi National Trust, Far North Mayor Moko Tepania and other dignitaries in attendance.

The upgrades include drainage, paving, earthworks and fitting of guardrails. Far North District Council contributed $400,000 to the project. 

“The Waitangi Treaty Grounds are a place for all New Zealanders and where much of our country’s history was shaped. It’s a site of national significance and its importance is evident in the more than 160,000 visitors who head to the grounds each year,” Mr Jones says. 

The Treaty Grounds are undergoing an infrastructure upgrade funded with a grant of up to $10.2 million from the RIF. The project involves protecting nationally significant historic buildings from water damage and upgrading other facilities.

So far new toilets, a new carpark and lit pathways have been installed. The Treaty House has been repainted and protected from water with new drainage. 

The upgrade is expected to be completed by the end of 2026. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/important-treaty-grounds-route-upgraded/

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270 head office jobs to go as The Warehouse restructures

Source: Radio New Zealand

will outsource more functions in a measure aimed at reducing its cost base.

SUPPLIED

Around 270 jobs head office jobs will go from the Warehouse, and more functions will be outsourced, in a measure aimed at reducing its cost base.

Chief Executive Mark Stirton said the company’s cost base was unsustainable for a value retailer.

The job losses are expected to cost the Warehouse around $6-million in redundancy costs this year.

More to come …

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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/2026/02/04/270-head-office-jobs-to-go-as-the-warehouse-restructures/

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Black Caps have full squad to pick from as T20 World Cup approaches

Source: Radio New Zealand

Black Caps bowler Lockie Ferguson. Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz / Photosport Ltd 2025

The Black Caps are set to have a full contingent to choose from as they wrap up final preparations for the T20 World Cup in India.

Batter Finn Allen has joined the squad following his stint in the Big Bash and Lockie Ferguson, Michael Bracewell and Jimmy Neesham are all available for selection following injuries.

Allen hit 80 and Ferguson bowled four overs in Sunday’s loss to India in the fifth and final T20 international.

Allen appears set to join Tim Seifert at the top of the order after he led the batting statistics playing for the Perth Scorchers in the Australian T20 league. He scored the most runs, had the third best strike rate and hit the most sixes (38).

Ferguson’s pace is important following the withdrawal of Adam Milne through injury.

All-rounder Bracewell missed the T20 series against India after picking up a calf injury during the one-day series, while Neesham has been ill.

Finn Allen of the Perth Scorchers. AAP / Photosport

Coach Rob Walter is happy with where his squad is at.

“Everyone has had enough T20 cricket to be ready for the start of the competition; even Jimmy who has been ill was very much involved in the Bangladesh Premier League right through to the finals,” Walter said.

“The real positive of the group is that they’re grounded and fairly level through most things. There is always an air of excitement when it comes to a World Cup, but the strength of the group is really a level outlook to the games.”

Bracewell will get the opportunity to prove his fitness in the warmup game against the United States in Navi Mumbai on Friday morning.

“It (calf injury) is tracking as it was supposed to, I have the warmup game to tick off the final things and it’s all looking pretty positive,” Bracewell said.

The USA were beaten by India in a warmup game this week, managing 200 as they chased a target of 239.

This will be the USA’s second appearance at a T20 World Cup.

In 2024 they beat Pakistan and qualified for the Super Eight stage of the tournament.

New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell in action. Chris Symes / www.photosport.nz

Black Caps T20 World Cup schedule

8 February: 6:30pm v Afghanistan, Chennai

10 February: 10:30pm v UAE, Chennai

15 February: 2:30am v South Africa, Ahmedabad

17 February: 6:30pm v Canada, Chennai.

The top two teams from the four groups advance to the Super 8 stage where they will be placed into two groups of four teams each, and will play three matches against one another. The top two teams in each group will advance to the knockout (semi-final) stage.

The final is scheduled for 9 March.

– 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/black-caps-have-full-squad-to-pick-from-as-t20-world-cup-approaches/

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Police plea for thief to anonymously return Les O’Connell’s Olympic gold medal

Source: Radio New Zealand

Les O’Connell, Shane O’Brien, Conrad Robertson, Keith Trask- Mens Coxless 4 win gold at the 1984 Summer Olympic games. Photosport

Police are asking the thief of former rower Les O’Connell’s Olympic gold medal, which was taken in home burglary, to anonymously return it to any police station.

Les O’Connell’s home was burgled over the weekend, with thieves stealing a vehicle full of work tools, as well as entering the house and taking his Olympic gold medal.

O’Connell won the medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, rowing in the men’s coxless four, and was appealing to whoever pinched it to give it back undamaged.

He said the medal was gold coated but was largely made of silver.

Detective Nigel Thomson said the gold medal held “immense personal and sentimental value”.

“The Olympic gold medal is a significant piece of New Zealand sporting history, and is irreplaceable for Mr O’Connell,” Detective Thomson said.

“We understand that Olympic medals are often difficult to sell and are frequently recognised once publicly reported. For that reason, police are urging anyone who has information on the medal’s whereabouts to please come forward.

“If you are in possession of the medal – we urge you to return this immediately and without damage,” Detective Thomson said.

The medal can be returned anonymously by being dropped off to any police station, including by a trusted third party.

Can’t be replaced – Les O’Connell

Les O’Connell earlier told Checkpoint that no loss was stinging harder than the medal.

“All those other items, that’s what they are, they’re just pure items that can be replaced, this can’t.”

“All of that pale’s comparison to the gold medal.”

O’Connell said the years of work he put in prior to getting the medal was part of what had made the loss hit even harder.

“It’s something I’m not going to win again and it’s a whole process. You know, I was a world champion for two years before the Olympics, so it was a whole build-up to winning a gold medal… it was hard fought.”

O’Connell was holding out hope that the thieves would see some sense and return the medal back to its home.

“If they could put it somewhere and let someone know or phone into something and say, it’s here. Even if they just hide it somewhere and later on they let someone know… even post it back somewhere.

“I just don’t want it disfigured or thrown away and lost forever.”

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/police-plea-for-thief-to-anonymously-return-les-oconnells-olympic-gold-medal/

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Key learning support package rolls out for Term 1

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is delivering on its commitment to ensure every child gets the support they need to thrive, with major Budget 2025 learning support initiatives rolling out in schools as students return for Term 1 of the school year.

Budget 2025 invested $746.7 million to strengthen learning support – the largest boost in a generation. Today marks the beginning of the rollout of those significant initiatives, Education Minister Erica Stanford says.

“Early identification and timely support are critical for lifting educational achievement. From today, new services and specialist support are in place that benefit hundreds of thousands of students in classrooms all around the country.”

Key initiatives include: 

  • Learning Support Coordinators (LSCs): this year more than 100,000 Year 1–8 students and their teachers will benefit from new Learning Support Coordinators across 474 schools.
  • Ongoing Resourcing Scheme (ORS): the package also expands support for learners with the highest needs, with additional funding already enabling 500 more students to receive support since Budget 2025 and another 1700 due to receive support by 2028/29
  • Early Intervention Services (EIS): From this year support extends through Year 1 and includes 560 specialist roles and additional Teacher Aide hours.
  • Teacher Aide Hours: In total an additional 800,000 Teacher Aide hours have been funded this year with more being added every year. 

The Government is also investing in helping kids catch up when they need additional support. Structured literacy intervention teachers are now working in 1,248 schools and maths intervention teachers are now in 812 schools, accelerating the learning of thousands of students around the country. 

Ms Stanford says that the Ministry of Education is now launching the induction programme for Learning Support Coordinators to provide high-quality professional learning and development that enables them to maximise the impact of their roles on learner achievement. 

“The induction programme will ensure nationally consistent practice and provide essential knowledge and skills for teachers starting in the role,” Ms Stanford says.

“This Government is ambitious about raising educational achievement. Our changes provide the support and resources required by students and their teachers to experience success in the classroom, so that every child can reach their potential.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/02/04/key-learning-support-package-rolls-out-for-term-1/