Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

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Major through road in Lower Hutt closes for next nine months

Source: Radio New Zealand

The works have already drawn the ire of local residents. Pretoria Gordon

A major through road in Lower Hutt will be closed for the next nine months as part of a series of road works in Hutt City.

From 2 March until December 2026, the intersection between Queens Dr and High St will be closed while the existing roundabout is converted to a traffic lighted intersection as part of the new Melling Interchange.

The works are part of the Te Wai Takamori o Te Awa Kairangi project, formerly known as RiverLink.

“During the closure period, we will be relocating underground services like power, water, gas, and fibre; installing new drainage and stormwater systems; new footpaths, traffic islands, new signage and road markings to direct road users around the upgraded layout once we’ve replaced the existing roundabout with traffic lights,” the group said in January.

It said it expected these works to be among the most disruptive of those being undertaken as part of the Melling Interchange.

“We’re acutely aware of not only the impact it’ll have on how people move around the area, but of the cumulative impact of all the work going on around the Melling area and CBD.

“The only other way we could make the necessary changes to the intersection would involve 18 to 24 months of stop/go traffic management, weekend and night closures, and ultimately, a less safe environment for you to drive through and for our crews to work in. This closure will allow us to get far more work done in a much shorter period.”

The $1.5 billion Te Awa Kairangi project will include flood protection and river restoration work, urban revitalisation, and improvement to road and rail infrastructure, as well as new cycleways and pathways. It is not expected to be completed until some time in 2031.

But the works have already drawn the ire of local residents who have reported roadworks to date have caused gridlock and long delays.

It comes as commuters have been venting their frustration about a suite of works causing long delays.

There have been reports that the traffic sometimes backs up the off-ramps and causes delays on the motorway.

Some say their commute times have tripled, hitting set after set of road works.

But others say the problems are worth bearing for the improvements the work will bring.

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

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Pirongia storm damage assessments continue

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  02 March 2026

Pirongia was struck by intense rainfall on 13 and 14 February and several DOC tracks and assets on the maunga were flooded or damaged. Waipā District, where the popular forest park is located, remained under a State of Emergency until 28 February.

DOC’s Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones says his staff have completed the majority of the post-storm assessments across the forest park, with only sections of the Tirohanga and Hihikiwi tracks still to be checked due to road restrictions around the maunga.

“Early findings show several tracks appear to be less affected by that weather event, with mainly surface flooding, debris, and treefall to address,” Niwha says.

“Once our safety checks are completed, minor remediation work is expected to enable us to reopen some routes to the Kaniwhaniwha Campsite and Pahautea Hut, including the Ruapane Track and sections of the Tirohanga Track.

“We’re hopeful we can reopen those to the public in the next few weeks.”

Niwha says other parts of the Pirongia track network have suffered substantial damage. The Bell Track, Mahaukura Track, Mangakara Nature Walk, and Tahuanui Track have all been severely impacted, with multiple slips, destroyed structures, and areas where the track has been washed away.

These sites will require a more detailed geotechnical assessment and careful logistical planning and are likely to remain closed for some time. Some of the repair work will be undertaken by DOC staff. Where tracks are assessed as viable to repair and needing more complex repairs, experts will be contracted and specialist machinery is likely to be brought in.

Updates will be provided as further assessments are completed and reopening timeframes become clearer.

In the meantime, Niwha asked for public patience and understanding while Waikato DOC staff continue their response and assess each site to gain the full Pirongia recovery picture and put robust plans in place.

“Public safety is the number one priority for DOC, and we want to make the right decisions and to include the whakaaro of our hapuu,” Niwha says.

“Where tracks are closed, we are urging the public to respect those closures and explore other locations around the district to enjoy naturing.”

People can visit the DOC website pages for individual tracks for the latest updates. Website pages carry alerts on closures, detours or other information people need to be aware of.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

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Appeal for information following damage to ambulances

Source: New Zealand Police

Counties Manukau Police investigating the wilful damage of a number of Hato Hone St John Ambulances are appealing for any information to assist in our enquiries.

Senior Sergeant Roelof Burger says Police believe the offenders have unlawfully entered the gated yard of St John’s Manukau Station on the corner of Plunket Avenue and Wiri Station Road on Saturday night.

“While in the yard the offenders have punctured five tyres on three vehicles using a sharp object, rendering them inoperable.”

Police are incredibly disappointed with the irresponsible behaviour shown by these individuals.

“These are destructive actions, and consequences of actions such as this can put people’s lives at risk.

“As the vehicles are inoperable for a period of time, this impacts St John’s ability to respond to those who are in need of medical attention within our community.”

Andy Everiss, Hato Hone St John, District Operations Manager – Auckland, says it’s disappointing individuals have vandalised the ambulances in an unwarranted attack.

“These ambulance vehicles are a vital part of how we continue to support and serve the local community.

“These actions show great disrespect to our people, who rely on these vehicles to do lifesaving work every day.

“Thankfully, this incident did not severely impact our emergency ambulance response, and we remain available to respond in an emergency.”

Police are conducting enquiries into the incident to identify and locate those responsible, and would like to hear from anyone who may have information in relation to the incident.

“We would also like to hear from anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage in the wider Plunket Avenue and Wiri Station Road areas,” Senior Sergeant Burger says.

Information can be provided to Police online through 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report” or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number P065611930.

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

ENDS.

Issued by Police Media Centre
 

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Live: US-Israeli strikes on Iran could last ‘weeks’, 48 Iranian leaders and 3 US soldiers killed

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above

Israel and the US have begun a fresh waves of strikes on Iran, targetting the Iranian leadership, its air defences and its ballistic missile capabilities.

The US military says it has sunk nine Iranian warships and is “going after the rest” in attacks which US President Donald Trump says have killed 48 top Iranian leaders – including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Three US service members have also been killed and five seriously injured.

Trump said he envisages the conflict could last four weeks.

The attacks have sparked warnings about KiwiSaver, fuel and inflation in New Zealand.

Major Middle Eastern airports have been shut and regional gateways including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi were closed.

MFAT is advising New Zealanders in affected areas to shelter in place and leave when it is possible to do so.ces and its ballistic missile capabilities.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in the attacks on Saturday, which US President Donald Trump said were aimed at overturning Tehran’s government.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of the page

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

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WorkSafe drives horticulture safety improvements

Source: Worksafe New Zealand

WorkSafe has issued a report card showing the horticulture industry could do better when it comes to managing hazardous substances and machinery safety, particularly around power take-off (PTO) shafts on tractors.

Horticulture is a priority sector for WorkSafe because of its contribution to serious workplace incidents and injuries each year. Many of these involve vehicles, inadequate machine guarding, and exposure to hazardous substances. WorkSafe assessments play a key role in helping the industry improve practices and reduce harm.

Between July and September 2025, WorkSafe inspectors assessed 659 horticulture businesses across the country, including rural contractors. The focus was on high-risk activities such as working around vehicles, machinery, and chemicals.

Key findings

  • Significant gaps were found in machine guarding and chemical management.
  • 69% of businesses received guidance and practical support to strengthen their safety practices, and inspectors worked closely with others to help them identify and address hazards before someone gets hurt.

WorkSafe’s project lead, Carl Baker, says the scale of the assessments gave WorkSafe a clear picture of sector risks. 

“This was our most substantial focus on the horticulture sector in recent times. The industry, especially key sector groups, has been really willing to work with us. Ultimately, it’s about the sector working together, with WorkSafe’s influence to reduce harm.” 

However, he says while there’s been some improvement in attitudes toward health and safety, more needs to change. 

“I’ve been doing this for more than a decade, and I’ve attended scenes where people have sustained life-changing injuries because of insufficient machine guarding. It’s horrific for those injured, it’s horrific for their families, and it’s also horrific for businesses. 

“Part of the problem is a lack of awareness. People use unguarded machinery without issue, until one day there’s an incident. And that one day affects you for the rest of your life. It’s just not worth the risk.” 

Another area of concern was chemical management. Some assessments couldn’t be completed because paperwork was missing, leaving inspectors unable to verify risks.

“Up to 1,100 people die annually from diseases linked to work-related health, from things like chemical exposure earlier in their career,” Carl Baker says. “Safety data sheets and inventories are vital; they tell you how to manage chemicals and help emergency services respond. Without them, we don’t know the risks.” 

He stresses the assessments aren’t about fault-finding but sharing knowledge. 

“WorkSafe has tools like the hazardous substances calculator to help businesses meet compliance, for example identifying incompatible chemicals, signage, and fire extinguisher requirements.” 

Carl Baker says cooperation from organisations like Horticulture New Zealand was an important part of the success of the assessments. 

Its Chief Executive Kate Scott says worker safety is paramount. 

“Any injury is one too many. The findings show where guidance and practical tools can make a real difference. We’re using data to identify risks and develop industry-specific training and solutions.” 

Kate Scott says the sector is already working hard to improve health and safety, with Horticulture New Zealand and product groups providing targeted guidance and support to growers. 

“We’re aiming to reduce harm by better understanding the causes of injury and putting practical, workable solutions in place. That includes using data to identify risks such as sprains, cuts, machinery, weather exposure and hazardous substances, then developing training and tools to address them.” 

For more information

Managing your hazardous substances

Keep safe, keep farming toolkit

Safe use of tractors – fact sheet

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Exercise certificate helps EIT graduate support his community

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

3 days ago

After completing the New Zealand Certificate in Exercise at EIT, Joe Tangira is now working at the YMCA Gisborne, helping deliver free exercise classes for the community.

The 21-year-old enrolled in the level 4 programme early last year, drawn to the opportunity to become a personal trainer and begin building a future in the fitness industry. His interest was influenced by his parents, who previously worked as personal trainers.

“I wanted to do something along those lines. It gave me a reason and a direction for what I wanted to do.”

Originally from Gisborne, Joe (Ngāti Porou) completed his schooling at Gisborne Boys’ High School. His initial plan had been to study at

EIT’s Hawke’s Bay campus in Taradale, but those plans changed during the year Cyclone Gabrielle struck.

“During the cyclone, my parents called and told me to come home, so I flew back and stayed in Gisborne.”

After taking a short break, Joe decided the time felt right to return to study locally and enrolled at EIT Tairāwhiti.

Since completing the programme, he has secured work at the YMCA Gisborne, where he works at reception and supports a range of community fitness classes.

“It’s a foot in the door. It’s one step closer to my big dream.”

That long-term goal is to one day own his own gym.

Alongside his work, Joe continues to train regularly, spending time in the gym and practising jujitsu, a sport he has been involved in for nearly five years.

Joe says the programme helped him build knowledge not only for supporting others, but also for better understanding his own health and wellbeing.

“I learned what fuels my body for training and what types of food help me get through the day.

He would encourage other students to consider studying at EIT, particularly because of the support services available.

“They help in heaps of different ways. Whether you’re struggling with study or things outside of study, there’s support there.”

Todd Rogers, Head of School Trades and Technology, said: “One of our goals is producing work ready graduates for industry, and Joe is an excellent example of this”.

“The Gisborne YMCA is an outstanding place of work for our graduates to develop their trade as personal trainers.”

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Kiwi driver Scott McLaughlin second at Indycar Grand Prix of St Petersburg

Source: Radio New Zealand

picture id=”4JSEOEB_AFP__20260228__2263973903__v2__HighRes__NttIndycarSeriesFirestoneGrandPrixOfStPeters_jpg” crop=”16×10″ layout=”full”] Scott McLaughlin was runner-up at the Indycar Grand Prix in St Petersburg.

Kiwi polesitter Scott McLaughlin has clawed his way onto the podium at the Indycar season opener in the United States, but was ultimately defeated by Spain’s Alex Palou.

Four-time defending champion Palou took the victory defeating the New Zealand driver by 12.49 seconds on the St Petersburg street circuit. Christian Lundgaard finished third.

Palou was leading on 59 of 100 laps. With six laps to go McLaughlin’s overtaking skills saw him move up the field in the battle for second with Lundgaard.

McLaughlin was more than pleased with the “good start” for the season, but conceded he’d hoped for more after qualifying at the front of the grid.

McLaughlin secured pole for the season opener at St Petersburg. DAVID JENSEN

“Look, Alex was super fast, but you know I think it’s just a mixed bag on what tyre you start on,” he told SkySport.

“Maybe we come back here again and maybe you start on reds, and you just get them out of the way.

“We made the passes we needed to make at the right times, and I thought we maximised our day which is what we needed to do.”

Fellow Kiwi Sir Scott Dixon had a weekend to forget, crashing out in the opening practice when he hit the wall. And in a further setback in today’s Grand Prix he lost a tyre on lap 40 and took no further part in the race.

New Zealand’s Marcus Armstrong was 11th after starting seventh on the grid.

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

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Tall Blacks beat Guam to boost World Cup hopes

Source: Radio New Zealand

Reuben Te Rangi of New Zealand. David Rowland/www.photosport.nz

The Tall Blacks have beaten hosts Guam 99-67 to go two-from-two in their second window of qualifiers for next year’s World Cup in Qatar.

Reuben Te Rangi started the game with the Tall Blacks first five points, before Jack Andrew scored four of his own.

New Zealand’s up and in defensive scheme seemed to be doing the job as Guam struggled to put points on the board early.

Keanu Rasmussen entered the game, knocking down a corner three ball to score his first points as a Tall Black as the visitors extended their lead.

New Zealand’s defensive intensity continued to cause troubles for the Guam players, as the Tall Blacks continued to make baskets with regularity, opening up a 20-point lead halfway through the second quarter.

Guamanian guard, Takumi Simon, was doing everything he could to keep his side in the hunt, finishing the first half with 13 points, but it was the Tall Blacks who’d take a 51-34 lead into half time.

The Tall Blacks didn’t take long to get back into their work at the start of the second half, with Andrew continuing to lead the way down low, taking his tally to 16 points with another putback half-way through the third quarter.

Britt started to get going with six the the third, while the Tall Blacks continued to extend their lead to 19 points.

It was more of the same in the fourth quarter, as New Zealand continued to tack on points and further their lead.

Andrew finished with 20 points while Te Rangi had 15 and Rasmussen 14.

Flavell was happy with the team’s performance.

“We watched the Australian game the other day, so we came in with full respect for this Guam team,” Flavell said.

“For us it was all about our defensive mindset, two guys in particular, Simon and Freeman. We really obviously concentrated on those two in particular and tried to keep them quiet. For the most part I thought we did a pretty good job. Simon got going in the second half but for the most part, really happy with our team’s performance on the defensive end.”

Flavell also very happy with the way the team’s new additions.

“Jack Andrew, Sam Timmins, Kruz Perrott-Hunt and Jackson Ball – they just arrived the other day. I said to them, you’re gonna make mistakes, we’re going to be somewhat rusty here and there on the offensive end.

“But they came straight in and added to our side. For us, that’s our identity.”

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

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Winds could see Cook Strait ferry services cancelled

Source: Radio New Zealand

Bluebridge and Interislander in Picton Marlborough sounds RNZ/ Rachel Thomas

The Bluebridge Cook Straight ferry service is indicating strong southerlies could cause delays and cancellations on Monday and Tuesday.

It says strong winds and large swells are expected, and customers would be notified of any disruption.

“A southerly weather system is forecast for Cook Strait on Monday and Tuesday, bringing strong winds and large swells. The worst of the conditions are forecast for Monday afternoon and may result in delays or possible cancellations.”

RNZ has contacted KiwiRail to ask if Interislander services will also be affected.

No formal weather watches or warnings were in place for the region, MetService’s website showed.

“A southerly flow covers the North Island on Tuesday, while a large high in the Tasman Sea extends over the South Island, its severe weather outlooks said, noting a “strong or gale southeasterly flow” for the offshore Chatham Islands.

Meanwhile, ferry services connecting Eastbourne and Wellington City have been cancelled at least 10am Monday because of the conditions.

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

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Consultation on Proposed Amendments to the Specified Prescription Medicines List for Designated Registered Nurse Prescribers: Analysis of submissions

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

Publication date:

Designated registered nurse prescribers in primary health and speciality team have met specific training and practise requirements set by the Nursing Council of New Zealand (Nursing Council). They work in collaborative multidisciplinary teams and only prescribe medicines within their specific area of practice, from a gazetted list of specified prescription medicines.

The Ministry of Health (the Ministry), on behalf of the Director-General of Health, working with the Nursing Council, is responsible for establishing and maintaining the gazetted specified prescription medicines list.

The specified prescription medicines list needs to be updated from time to time as additional medicines become available.

When updating the list of specified prescription medicines, the Director-General must consult with those organisations or bodies that appear to the Director-General to be representative of persons likely to be substantially affected by the publication of the list of specified prescription medicines.

The Ministry undertook a consultation on the Nursing Council’s proposed amendments to the specified prescription medicines list from 18 September to 17 October 2025.

This publication provides the analysis of submissions on the proposed amendments to the specified prescription medicines list for designated registered nurse prescribers and Schedule 1A of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 1977 consultation.