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Source: New Zealand Police

Police are in attendance at a sudden death at Cheltenham Beach on the North Shore.

At 3.14pm, a report was received of a man being pulled out of the water unresponsive.

Emergency services have attended the beach and provided the man with medical assistance.

Sadly, despite best efforts we can confirm the man has died on scene.

The immediate area has been cordoned off at this stage.

Police will make enquiries into the man’s death on behalf of the Coroner.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/sudden-death-at-cheltenham-beach/

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Significant storm damage across the Coromandel Peninsula means several state highway closures and restrictions will remain in place heading into the long weekend, with some sections expected to take up to five days to clear.

Heavy rain has caused multiple slips, debris flows and pavement damage across the network. Crews have been clearing slips, removing fallen trees and assessing damage wherever it is safe to do so.

Andy Oakley, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) System Manager for Waikato, says the focus over the last few days has been assessing the damage and restoring access to roads that have been heavily impacted.

“The images of these slips speak for themselves, and some sections of state highway will remain closed through the long weekend.

“While some areas have been reopened relatively quickly, several significant slips are still moving and will take days to fully clear. Work can only continue when it is safe for crews to be onsite.

“SH2 through the Karangahake Gorge is now open with speed restrictions and our next immediate focus is on regaining safe access in and out of Whangamata via SH25 to Hikuai. This section is currently being monitored and is scheduled to open from 7pm tonight under lane and speed restrictions.”

Mr Oakley says teams are also managing dozens of smaller slips and two major unstable areas on SH25 at Kūaotunu and between Whiritoa and Whangamata.

“These two slips are large and unstable. Safety for road users and our crews is our priority, which means work will pause at times until assessments confirm the slopes have settled.

“As we head into the long weekend, we strongly encourage people to follow the advice of Civil Defence and local councils, only travel if necessary and check NZTA’s Journey Planner before they get on the roads,” says Mr Oakley.

If you must travel, slow down, drive to the conditions and allow extra time.

Current network status:

The following sections of State Highway are still CLOSED: 
SH 25 Kūaotunu to Kūaotunu West/Matarangi
SH 25 Whangamatā to Whiritoa 

OPEN with caution (traffic management in place)
SH25 Coromandel town to Matarangi /Kūaotunu West
SH 2 Paeroa to Waihi (Karangahake Gorge)

CLOSED but scheduled to OPEN from 7pm tonight: 
SH25 Hikuai to Whangamata  

While the highway is closed to through traffic, sections of SH25 between Kuaotunu and Tairua are available for emergency travel, with a single lane open and traffic management at numerous minor slips. 

Up to date road information is available at www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/storm-damage-keeps-some-coromandel-peninsula-routes-closed-into-long-weekend/

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Crews on the East Coast are continuing to assess damage caused to State Highway 35 by multiple slips, landslides and flooding.

SH35 is open between Gisborne and Tikitiki, but remains closed from Tikitiki to Pōtaka.

Floodwaters are starting to recede near Pōtaka. However, the damage between Pōtaka and Te Araroa, in particular, is considerable and is taking time to assess.

Contractors & Geotech experts anticipate being able to make further assessments of the area during the day.

At this stage, it has been estimated that up to half a million cubic metres of material will need to be removed from multiple sites throughout SH35.

In addition to the slips, Taurangakoau Bridge over Mangaowira Stream has been partially washed away and work is underway to secure contractor access across the bridge.

Our crews are working as quickly and as safely as possible to clear more access to parts of SH35.

Please continue to drive to the conditions and with extreme care. There is a lot of traffic management in place throughout the sections of SH35 that are open, so it’s imperative people adhere to traffic management and lower speeds, as crews remain on the road working where they can over the weekend.

A strong wind watch is in place tomorrow (Saturday) from midday north of Tolaga Bay.

Further south SH2 is open from Gisborne to Matawai. Waioweka Gorge remains closed.

SH2 from Gisborne to Wairoa and further south to Napier is open.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/assessments-continue-following-flooding-landslides-on-sh35/

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant John Kean:

Police are asking for the public’s help finding Kevin John Singh Belling, who was reported missing from the Invercargill area.

The 62-year-old was reported missing on Sunday 18 January, however he was last seen and spoken to on Friday 9 January at his place of business in Motu Rimu.

Police have conducted a series of enquiries but have unfortunately been unable to locate him, and are now seeking help from the public.

It is believed that Kevin could still be in the Invercargill area.

Police and Kevin’s family have serious concerns for his welfare and would like to find him as soon as possible.

If you have seen Kevin, or have any information that could help us find him, please call 111 and reference file number: 260118/6964.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/have-you-seen-kevin/

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  23 January 2026

There are concerns sections the track may not be safe after more than 200 mm of rain lashed the region this week.

“The track has been assessed by staff, and there are visible signs of slumping caused by the saturation of the hillside the track traverses,” DOC Coromandel Operations Manager Nick Kelly says.

“There are also parts of the track covered in deep mud and debris which will need to be cleared so further assessments can be undertaken – including geotechnical inspections.”

Geological assessments undertaken previously at Mautohe Cathedral Cove have also shown there is a residual risk of landslides and rockfalls as the soil above and around the cove dries out after rain events.

DOC has a vital responsibility to manage visitor risk at the site, and Nick says right now the focus is on gaining a full understanding of that risk following the storm and intense rain.

Nick says the message is clear – do not use the Mautohe Cathedral Cove track until further notice.

“This is not the time to go naturing at Mautohe Cathedral Cove – do not put yourself at risk,” Nick says.

Representatives from Ngāti Hei will be at track entrance points urging people to not use the track.

The cove can still be accessed from the sea but anyone planning to do this should think carefully about the risks – including the possibility of rockfall and further landslides – and whether visiting is sensible at this time.

The storm this week has also impacted track reinstatement works at nearby Waimata Gemstone Bay. Contractors have been withdrawn from the site and a section of track they had been working on is damaged.

A section of the coastal track network between Hahei and the Mautohe Cathedral Cove track start, which was permanently closed, has also subsided – reinforcing the decision to close this part of the track network.

Nick says the Coromandel Peninsula is in clean-up mode and visitors are now being actively discouraged from visiting the peninsula while the recovery continues. Coromandel’s roading network is compromised in several places.

Tracks to Mautohe Cathedral Cove were closed in February 2023 due to extensive damage caused by Cyclone Garbrielle. DOC repaired the tracks through the second half of 2024, and they reopened to visitors in December 2024.

Contact

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/mautohe-cathedral-cove-closed-until-further-notice-damaged-identified/

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

26 seconds ago

For 19-year-old Emma Davis, seeing her designs come to life on the runway was the highlight of her NZ Diploma in Fashion (Level 5) at EIT.

Emma completed the diploma last year at EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus, showcasing three garments as part of the end-of-year fashion show, including two looks from her final collection and one sustainable design created earlier in the year using upcycled materials.

“It felt really emotional,” Emma says. “We designed everything from the beginning to the end, and there was a lot of time and effort put into it. There were a lot of late nights and a lot of emotion involved, so finally seeing everything on the runway was really special.”

Her final collection drew inspiration from Greek mythology, specifically the character of Circe from The Odyssey.

“I usually work with lighter colours and more flowy designs, so I wanted to challenge myself. One outfit was inspired by Circe herself as a witch, which was more feminine, and the other was inspired by the soldiers who were turned into pigs, so it was darker and heavier than what I normally do.”

Her interest in fashion began at a young age, sparked by time spent sewing with her grandmother after moving back to New Zealand from England.

“She taught me how to sew, and I just loved it. I used to make little outfits for my Barbie dolls. Once you learn how to sew, you stop looking at clothes the same way. You see something in a shop and immediately think about what you could turn it into.”

After finishing at Havelock North High School, Emma chose to study fashion at EIT, drawn by the opportunity to focus on hands-on, creative learning close to home.

“EIT was right there, and I wasn’t quite ready to move away or financially able to yet. My fabrics teacher at high school had studied at EIT and recommended it, so I thought I’d give it a go and see if fashion was really for me. I’m really glad I did.”

Throughout the year, Emma says the programme allowed her to immerse herself fully in fashion, building practical skills across sewing, pattern making, and garment construction.

“Every single day we were learning something new. It meant I could really focus on developing my skills rather than juggling lots of different subjects.”

She says working directly with patterns and mannequins helped her gain confidence and develop a more instinctive approach to design.

“Before EIT, I struggled with knowing how to do things without overthinking them. Now, a lot of it feels more natural. I’ve learned how to just do things without having to stop and think so much. I’m really grateful for everything I learned and how much I grew over the year.”

Sustainability was a strong focus throughout the diploma, and an area Emma is particularly passionate about.

“We learned a lot about being mindful with resources and thinking about environmental impact. Sustainable fashion isn’t just about labels. It can involve upcycling, textiles, or working in different areas of the industry that support more responsible practices.”

Emma plans on continuing further study at Massey University, with aspirations to work in the sustainable fashion sector.

“There are so many different pathways within fashion. Design is the dream, but there are also opportunities in textiles, marketing, and other related areas. I’d love whatever I do to be connected to sustainability.”

Reflecting on her time at EIT, Emma says the commitment required was significant, but the experience has given her a strong foundation moving forward.

Christina Rhodes, Lecturer Fashion CALT, said the NZ Diploma in Fashion introduces the fashion industry and explores the diverse roles students can pursue to advance their careers.

“Throughout the programme, we encourage a strong focus on practical sustainability, emphasising recycling, repurposing, and reusing materials.

“Emma demonstrated creativity in developing the concept for her collection, incorporating sustainability into her garment design. We wish her every success as she continues her journey in the fashion industry.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/eit-fashion-student-brings-final-designs-to-life/

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Bay of Plenty District Commander Superintendent Tim Anderson:

Police can now confirm six people are currently confirmed as unaccounted for, including two teenagers, following yesterday’s landslide at Mount Maunganui.

The youngest of those missing is 15 years old.

We have been unable to establish the whereabouts of three further individuals. While we do not currently believe they were involved in the slip, further enquiries are required to rule it out.

Those three parties are believed to be tourists, and we believe it is likely they left the area.

Police are asking anyone with video footage of the slip at Mt Maunganui yesterday to upload it via this online portal.

Additionally, anyone who might have information that could help our enquiries into the three parties whose whereabouts are yet to be determined is also asked to get in touch.

You can do so through our 105 service, referencing Operation Sunbrae.

We are wrapping support around the families of those whose loved ones are unaccounted for.

We would also like to acknowledge the wider community, who have similarly shown such an outpouring of support and empathy for those affected, including the family of those who died in Welcome Bay.

I can confirm one of those parties was a Chinese national and we continue to liaise with overseas officials regarding this matter.

There are still thousands of people across the region affected by this weather event, and Police, alongside other agencies, are working to support our communities.

In Welcome Bay, where a number of evacuations were carried out, Police are carrying out additional patrols around those vacant properties until residents can return.

Police will continue to work with our partners to support the ongoing operation at Mount Maunganui as the first priority, and will also continue to deploy our staff across the region where they are most needed.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/six-people-confirmed-as-unaccounted-for-following-mount-maunganui-landslide/

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

1 minute ago

After four years studying the Bachelor of Creative Practice (Visual Arts and Design) at EIT, artist Taya Evans’ work reflects significant artistic growth.

Originally from Gisborne, Taya (Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki, Te Ātihaunui-a-Pāpārangi) moved to Hawke’s Bay to complete the degree after leaving High School in Year 12.

“I’ve been painting and drawing since before I could walk, and I always knew I wanted to get a higher education in visual art.”
She began her studies with the NZ Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 3) and NZ Certificate in Arts and Design (Level 4) before progressing into the degree.

Looking back on her journey, Taya says the most noticeable change has been in her skill level and attention to detail.

“When I first started, I thought I was really good,” she laughs. “Now I look back and can see how much my work has changed. Just small things have made such a big difference to my practice and my outcomes.”

Throughout her studies, Taya worked on a range of conceptually challenging projects. One such project explored anthropomorphism, combining human and animal characteristics through detailed visual research.

“I did an anthropomorphic project where I morphed human qualities with animalistic qualities. I researched genetic abnormalities that happen in nature, like animals born with two heads or two faces. It was about showing the connection between humans and animals. It was a crazy project, but it was really fun.”

Her final project took a more introspective direction. Taya produced a charcoal installation made up of nine exhibited self-portraits, selected from a much larger body of work.

“They were about the animalistic qualities in humans and how easy it is to forget that we’re mammals ourselves. It was about the many faces of us as people.”

She also credits the learning environment at EIT as an important part of her development, particularly the close relationships formed with tutors and peers.

“We were a really close group. It’s quite personalised, and the relationships built with your tutors is invaluable. They’re really understanding and welcoming, and they push you.”

Taya will graduate in April and is already looking ahead to the next stage of her creative career. She hopes to pursue a career as a tattoo artist, while continuing to draw and create independently.

“I’m still doing my drawing and still creating. Tattooing just seems like an exciting way to work in a more contemporary process.”

Dr Sean Coyle, Head of School IDEAschool and Toihoukura, said: “Taya’s work demonstrates a high level of technical skill and conceptual maturity, reflecting the depth of learning and refinement she has developed throughout her studies”.

“The impact of her practice lies in its confidence, thoughtfulness, and ability to engage audiences in meaningful reflections on identity and the human condition.”

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/artistic-growth-shapes-creative-journey-for-eit-visual-arts-student/

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute Inspector Peter Cooper, Area Commander Canterbury Rural 

Police will continue to maintain a highly visible presence across the North Canterbury area this weekend, with a gathering of car enthusiasts for the Muscle Car Madness Car Show in Rangiora.

Police expect to see a large number of attendees moving around the Rangiora Showgrounds area and will have additional resources available to manage any issues that may arise from the event.

Following up driving complaints around Rangiora over the last two nights, Police and Court bailiffs have seized and impounded six vehicles, and issued a number of infringement notices.

Over 1000 breath tests were completed on Thursday night alone.

Police will continue to monitor activities over the weekend and take all complaints seriously.

We will review any video footage of driving complaints, and we plan to hold all offending drivers to account at the time of the behaviour or at a later date.

While the Police respect the right of people to gather and enjoy this event, it should not be in such a manner that causes disruption, annoyance, and frustration to the public.

We will continue to communicate our expectations to attendees of Muscle Car Madness and will take enforcement action wherever necessary.

Police always encourage safe driving behaviour: keeping a safe speed and distance and driving without impairment or distraction.

If you are witnessing dangerous driving behaviour or any illegal or disorderly behaviour, please call Police on 111.

You can also report non-emergencies or matters after the fact by calling Police on 105 and supplying as much information as you can gather, including images or video footage.

Information can also be reported anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/canterbury-police-closely-monitoring-car-enthusiast-activity-this-weekend/

Source: New Zealand Police

Emergency services are at the scene of a serious two-vehicle crash at the intersection of the Appleby Highway and McShane Road, Appleby.

Police were called about 12.50pm.

Initial indications are there have been serious injuries.

The road will be closed, with diversions in place.

Motorists, please avoid the area if possible.

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/serious-crash-appleby/

Source: New Zealand Government

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today officially opened Te Piringa Āhuru, South Auckland’s new Crisis Recovery Café.

“A brightly lit, busy emergency department is often not the best environment for someone in mental distress. That’s why we are rolling out eight new crisis recovery cafés across the country, so more New Zealanders have a calm, peer-led, non-clinical space to go to for support,” Mr Doocey says.

“We know that each community can be different. That’s why I have always said the solutions already exist within our grassroots organisations, they just need to be supported. Ember has been operating in South Auckland for the last six years, already making a difference, and will now be running the café and reaching even more people.

“Ember named the café Te Piringa Āhuru to signify it as a place of safety and belonging, and a space where there is hope, which I think is a fitting name for this space.

“The café will have peer support workers who can link people back into community services, lend a listening ear, and offer people experiencing mental health or addiction challenges a place to sit down in a relaxed setting.

“There is real power in knowing there is someone in the room who has walked a similar journey and come through it, it can give people real hope. I have been pleased to hear firsthand the real difference these roles are already making. One worker told me that, reflecting on her own experience, the peer support service is exactly what she wishes she had when she was struggling, someone who can say, I see you, I hear you, I know what you’re going through.

“We are better utilising peer support workers in a range of settings, including emergency departments, eating disorder services, and crisis alternatives.

“I was recently in Whanganui, where I opened the first of eight cafés, as well as New Plymouth and Whakatāne, to announce they received a boost in funding from the Government. I look forward to continuing the roll out.

“Crisis cafés form part of our mental health plan. Last month, I announced a crisis response package that includes more clinical workers in crisis assessment teams, two new 10-bed peer-led acute alternative services, and additional peer support workers in emergency departments and crisis recovery cafés.

“My focus is on delivering faster access to support, more frontline workers, and a better crisis response.”

Note to editors:

• The café has been operating from a temporary site since late September last year and has now moved to the new site.

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/south-auckland-gets-new-crisis-recovery-cafe/

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/test-publication-23-jan/

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Carl Fowlie, Waitematā North Police:

The search for a missing man is resuming at the Mahurangi River after he was swept away by water on Wednesday.

Additional resource is being deployed into the area today as water levels have continued to subside overnight.

Police Search and Rescue is deployed into the area carrying out ground-based searching around the banks of the river.

They are being supported by 17 Land Search and Rescue members as well as a water rescue crew from Fire and Emergency.

A Police drone is also carrying out aerial searches.

Police is continuing to support the man’s family through this difficult time.

We thank all other agencies who have been called upon in recent days for their assistance. Everyone involved in this operation is focused on locating the man on behalf of his family.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/warkworth-search-operation-remains-ongoing-today/

Source: NZCTU

Cost of living data released by Stats NZ today shows that working people are being left behind, said NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi President Sandra Grey.

“Data released by Stats NZ today showed that the cost of living rose at its fastest rate for 18 months. 68% of workers across the economy are currently facing another year of real terms pay cuts under this government”

“80% of items measured in the CPI basket saw prices rise. Food prices rose 4.3%, electricity prices rose 12.2%, and gas prices rose 16.2%. Working people are struggling to afford the basics.”

“Minimum wage workers are now facing a third straight year of real terms cuts to their income. The lowest-paid workers in the country are paying the price for this Government’s economic mismanagement.

“National keeps promising opportunities for New Zealanders but they’re only delivering for the wealthy. When last measured, annual household inflation was running 2.7 times faster for the lowest income New Zealanders than for the highest income earners.”

“Working people need wage increases, not tax cuts. The Government may be celebrating the economy improving, but working people aren’t feeling any relief. Its time the government stopped leaving workers behind,” said Grey

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/cost-of-living-rises-faster-than-workers-wages/

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Crews continue to make steady progress at the Goldsmith slip site (the first from the Ōpōtiki side and potentially largest – approx. 110 metres high and up to 60 metres wide), with an additional 40 tonne digger on the way to boost clearing efforts.

Contractors have managed to get over the slip by digger and are now in a position to obtain on‑the‑ground information about conditions ahead of the main blockage.

Rob Service, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Controller SH2 Waioweka Gorge Response and Recovery says the scale and complexity of the slips in the Gorge mean progress won’t be instant, but that teams are working every hour they safely can to push through.

“Getting an additional digger on site is a big step in helping us tackle the major blockages.

“Conditions on the ground are changing day by day, especially after last night’s weather. Safety has to come first, which is why our teams are assessing the Gorge carefully before pushing ahead from the Gisborne side.”

A second container, which was in position from previous maintenance works before the weather event hit, is equipped with Starlink and cameras. This will ensure contractors have reliable communications as they move deeper into the Gorge.

Clearance work will continue in a “leap‑frog” style – crews rapidly clearing smaller slips while the larger digger tackles the major blockages.

Last night’s heavy rain caused flooding at the Gisborne entrance to the Gorge, preventing crews from accessing the site. The water has now receded, and teams are assessing conditions to confirm whether it is safe to proceed.

The landscape has changed significantly overnight, and a fresh geotechnical assessment may be required before work can resume.

Current expectations are that clearing efforts from the Gisborne side will restart early Friday, 23 January, pending safety clearance.

“We know how important this connection is for people and freight. Our crews are committed to restoring access as quickly as possible, and we’ll keep everyone updated as we make progress,” says Mr Service.

SH2 south of Gisborne is the only open route, however long detours are required. There is a significant increase in traffic on SH2 south of Gisborne, with high volumes of vehicles continuing through to Bayview. Drivers are reminded to drive to the conditions, allow extra time, and remain patient. 

Travellers should delay travel where possible. People are encouraged to check the NZTA Journey Planner for up-to-date information before travelling.

NZTA Journey Planner(external link)

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/teams-press-forward-as-conditions-in-sh2-waioweka-gorge-shift/

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Senior Sergeant Matt Prendergast, Taranaki Road Policing:

Following up complaints of dangerous driving on Monday 19 January, Police have arrested one driver, seized and impounded two vehicles, and issued several infringement notices.

The complaints were made to Police around late morning and early afternoon, and shortly after, a large convoy of vehicles made their way through New Plymouth to Bell Block for a tangi.

At the time, the numbers of motorists were such that Police were unable to respond and take enforcement action safely.

Police have since reviewed video footage of the driving complaints and have now held the offending drivers to account.

Enquiries are still ongoing to identify other illegal activity involved during or around the tangi. 

While the Police respect the right of people to grieve, it should not be in such a manner that causes disruption, annoyance and frustration to the public.

We are disappointed that this group choose to express themselves in this way with little consideration for other people.

Police always encourage safe driving behaviour: keep a safe speed and distance, and drive without impairment or distraction.

If you are witnessing dangerous driving behaviour, please pull over and call Police on 111.

You can also report non-emergencies or matters after the fact by calling Police on 105.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/driving-complaints-result-in-arrest-impounds-and-infringements/

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Education Minister David Seymour has welcomed provisional Term 4 attendance data, which shows attendance rates were higher than any Term 4 since 2022. 

Provisional data shows in Term 4 2025, 57.3% of students attended school regularly. This was an increase from 56.4% in Term 4 2024.

“This data shows attendance rates are rising again under this Government,” Mr Seymour says. 

“In Term 4 2022 regular attendance was at 48.7%. In Term 4 2025 about 150,000 more students attended school regularly than in 2022. Kiwi students are showing up to school more, and parents are pushing them to attend. Those students and parents should be proud.

“When the Government takes attendance seriously, so do schools, parents, and students. It’s important we continue to drive the change in attitude towards attendance.”

Central and East Auckland was the region with the highest regular attendance rate at 62.5%. This was followed by Otago/Southland at 62.4%, and North and West Auckland and Canterbury/Chatham Islands, both at 61.7%.

“Attendance rates are back on a steady upward trajectory. This is a good start, but there is still work to be done. I expect attendance to continue rising as the roll out of our attendance initiatives continues,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Soon every school will have developed and implemented their own attendance management plan (AMP). It means there are escalating responses for declining attendance.”

Some examples of how interventions could work are:

• 5 days absent: The school to get in touch with parents/guardians to determine reasons for absence and set expectations.
• 10 days absent: School leadership meets with parents/guardian and the student to identify barriers to attendance and develop plans to address this.
• 15 days absent: Escalating the response to an Attendance Service Provider. If absence escalates beyond this point (or for cases of non-enrolment) prosecution of parents becomes a possibility.  

“Taking time out at the end of term does just as much damage as low attendance throughout the term. Using the Daily Attendance Dashboard, we can calculate an average daily attendance rate of 86.4% for the first ten weeks of the term, for the last week of the term it is only 68.1%. The dataset is smaller for the final week because not all schools were open, but the low average shows that across-the-board attendance was not a priority. Missing the last week of school would result in a response as part of the school’s attendance management plan,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Frontline attendance services are now more accountable, better at effectively managing cases, and data-driven in their responses. They have access to a new case management system, better data monitoring, and their contracts will be more closely monitored. Budget 2025 included $140 million of additional funding to improve attendance over the next four years.

“Attending school is the first step towards achieving positive educational outcomes. Positive educational outcomes lead to better health, higher incomes, better job stability and greater participation within communities. These are opportunities that every student deserves.”

Media contact: Simon Clarke 0274448676

Note to editors: Attendance data can be found here Attendance | Education Counts

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/provisional-data-shows-term-4-attendance-continues-to-rise/

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  23 January 2026

Favourite naturing destination Karangahake Gorge remains closed, with Department of Conservation (DOC) staff still working to assess the scale of damage.

DOC Tauranga Operations Manager John Sutton says much of Bay of Plenty is still in response mode, and people are just starting to assess the damage.

“I urge people to check your destinations and choose safe options this weekend; I think our emergency services have enough on their plates.”

Significant amounts of water have gone through some popular locations, and DOC staff need time to make sure it’s safe for people to return.

“Karangahake Gorge has been particularly hard hit, you might have seen videos of water rushing through the tunnel of the Windows Walk. It’ll take some time to get the tracks and facilities to a condition where people can safely visit,” says John Sutton.

“Dickey Flat Campsite at the southern end of Karangahake Gorge is closed until further notice, and this isn’t a booked site, so we’re really asking people to use common sense and check access and conditions before they head out.”

Matatā Campsite, closer to Whakatāne, is closed until 27 January, and booked visitors have been informed.

Although other DOC tracks across Bay of Plenty may not be formally closed, be alert to the possibility of landslides, washouts, or downed trees. Damage should be reported to DOC via 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

“Stay safe this weekend, and we look forward to welcoming you back into these spaces when we can,” says John Sutton.

Visit www.doc.govt.nz to see alerts on tracks, huts, and campsites.

Contact

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/check-access-for-weekend-naturing-in-bop/

Source: New Zealand Government

Four new community based forensic step-down beds will open ahead of schedule in March thanks to the partnership between Ember Services Limited and Health NZ, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey announced today.

“Opening more mental health beds is a commitment made by the government in its Mental Health Plan to deliver faster access to support,” Mr Doocey says.

“Budget 2025 funded two new community based step-down forensic beds in Waikato every year for the next four years as part of a wider $51M program to improve access to specialist forensic services.

“I’ve listened to the frontline, both patients and mental health professionals, and asked for the funding of eight new beds to be brought forward over two years, not the four years originally intended.

“These new beds will be backed by community wraparound support teams and funding to attract and retain specialist staff.

“I have always said patient and public safety must be paramount. By gradually reintegrating people who are transitioning out of inpatient forensic care, we can help more people return to the community safely.

“Community based step-down beds free up inpatient beds for people who really need them and form part of a step-by-step care system, allowing patients to move gradually from higher support to less supervision. These beds also ensure continuity of care, help reduce the risk of relapse and re-hospitalisation, and enable greater participation in rehabilitation programmes.

“Today’s announcement of new community based step-down forensic beds will increase bed capacity on top of the new 10 bed acute forensic inpatient facility in Waikato.

“This package is part of our broader mental health plan to deliver faster access to support, more frontline workers, and a better crisis response.”

Note to editors:

• Announcements around the four remaining step-down beds will be made in due course. 

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/new-community-beds-opening-ahead-of-schedule-in-waikato/

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Superintendent Shanan Gray, Counties Manukau District Commander:

A motorcyclist has died following a crash on the Southern Motorway near Ōtara on Thursday night.

At the time, a Police motorways unit was carrying out radar speed detection on southbound lanes of State Highway 1 near Mt Wellington.

At around 11.15pm, the unit has detected a motorcycle travelling south at high speed.

Police signaled it to stop, however it continued travelling at high speed.

The unit has not pursued the motorcycle and came to a stop at the side of the motorway.

A short time later, the unit moved off and continued travelling south when it has been flagged down by the driver of an attenuator truck, after the motorcycle had collided into the rear of his vehicle just north of the East Tamaki Road off-ramp.

Sadly, the male rider has sustained fatal injuries and died at the scene.

A full closure of southbound lanes of State Highway 1 was put in place and traffic was diverted off the motorway.

Overnight, a scene examination was carried out and the man’s body has been removed.

The lanes reopened shortly before 5am.

Support is being put in place for our officers who were working last night. 

An investigation is now underway into the fatal crash, and as standard procedure the Independent Police Conduct Authority will be notified of the incident.

Formal identification procedures will need to be carried out and support will be put in place for the man’s next of kin.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

LiveNews: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/01/23/fatal-crash-state-highway-1-otara/