Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey today officially opened Ngā Wai Ngāro, a new acute mental health facility at Palmerston North Hospital.

“This new unit marks a fundamental shift in how we support people in mental distress. It ensures that when someone is in need of support, they are in a safe, supportive environment designed to help them get well,” Mr Doocey says.

“This $66.6 million investment delivers 28 modern patient bedrooms, therapy rooms, a gym, natural light, outdoor areas and family spaces, all designed to create a more therapeutic environment that supports faster recovery.

“The opening today is part of the Government’s mental health plan to deliver faster access to support, more frontline workers and a better crisis response.

“People go into mental health facilities to get well and be safe, which is exactly what this new facility is designed to do. Families should be able to trust that when a loved one reaches out for support, they are in a safe environment and receiving the support they need.

“This is a good example of what can be achieved when we listen to those voices who have lived experience, to staff on the frontline, and to the community.

“I acknowledge that today’s opening has been long awaited by many. It is an understatement to say this facility is a major step up from Ward 21, and I am confident it will deliver better mental health care for the region.”

The new facility will begin welcoming patients later this year, with a transition plan in place to ensure continuity of care before the existing Ward 21 formally closes.

“Whether it’s you, your child, a friend, or a family member reaching out for support, this Government is committed to ensuring support is there.”

Source: New Zealand Government

Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointments of 12 King’s Counsel.

The rank of King’s Counsel is primarily awarded to barristers sole who have met the overarching criteria of excellence in their careers, although some can be appointed in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to law.

“That is the case this year, with Chief Parliamentary Counsel Cassie Nicholson being made a KC in recognition of her significant contribution to the drafting of legislation for New Zealand,” Ms Collins says.

The 11 barristers sole appointed, from 107 applications, are Brian Dickey, Tiana Epati, Kevin Glover, Katie Hogan, Sarah Jerebine, Paul Keegan, Simon Ladd, Richard Marchant, Balthazar Matheson, Matthew Smith, and Alan Webb.

“The standards to be appointed King’s Counsel are extremely high and I am delighted that our legal profession continues to feature such distinguished individuals,” Ms Collins says.

“I am also pleased to note the wide variety of practice areas in which our newest silks have experience, increasing the availability of King’s Counsel in specialist fields,” Ms Collins says.

“All of our new King’s Counsel have demonstrated a particular commitment to improving access to justice alongside their excellent work as advisors and litigators. They all have strong links to their communities and significant instances of pro bono, legally aided and similar work. I congratulate each of them and their families on their appointment.”

Cassie Nicholson

Cassie Nicholson is the Chief Parliamentary Counsel and Chief Executive Officer of the Parliamentary Counsel Office, New Zealand’s law drafting office. She graduated from Victoria University, was a Commonwealth scholar, and holds a Master of Laws from the London School of Economics. She was Deputy Chief Parliamentary Counsel (drafting legislation) from 2016 and was appointed Chief Parliamentary Counsel in 2021.

Brian Dickey

Brian Dickey specialises in criminal law, and has expertise in commercial regulatory prosecutions. He graduated from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 1990. He was the Auckland Crown Solicitor for eight years until 2023 and from 2024 he has led Crown negotiations with Ngāpuhi hapu and Hauraki iwi.

Tiana Epati

Tiana Epati specialises in complex regulatory and serious criminal investigations, with particular expertise in appeals. She graduated from the University of Auckland and was admitted to the bar in 2000. She was a partner at Rishworth, Wall & Mathieson, before becoming a barrister sole in 2022. Tiana served as president of the New Zealand Law Society (NZLS) from 2019-2022.

Kevin Glover

Kevin Glover is an expert in intellectual property litigation. He graduated from the University of Waikato in 1999, was admitted to the bar in 2000 and earned his Master of Laws from the University of Cambridge in 2004. He joined the bar in 2009 and is a member of Shortland Chambers. He has lectured at the University of Auckland and is a co-author of Trade Marks in Practice and Intellectual Property Law.

Katie Hogan

Katie Hogan specialises in criminal law, with particular expertise in the criminal proceeds jurisdiction. She graduated from the University of Otago in 2000, was admitted to the bar in 2002 and, after working as a Crown prosecutor, joined City Chambers in 2018. She has been a legal consultant for the Samoan Attorney-General and has acted for the Cook Islands Crown.

Sarah Jerebine

Sarah Jerebine is a civil litigator, specialising in public law. She graduated from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 2001. She joined the Crown Law Office in 2010 and then Bankside Chambers in 2019. Ms Jerebine sits on the New Zealand Bar Association Council and Auckland Branch Council of the NZLS.

Paul Keegan

Paul Keegan is a defence barrister, specialising in criminal jury trial and appellate advocacy. He graduated from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 1992. He became a barrister sole in 2004 and founded Marsland Chambers in New Plymouth in 2021. He is a member of the Legal Aid selection committee, the Legal Aid disciplinary committee and is a Ministry of Justice auditor.

Simon Ladd

Simon Ladd is a commercial litigator. He graduated from the University of Auckland and was admitted to the bar in 1995. He earned a Master of Laws from the University of Chicago in 2000 and was a partner at Bell Gully before joining Shortland Chambers in 2021. He is the Director of the Legal Research Foundation and the Chair of the Judicial Tribunal of Athletics New Zealand.

Richard Marchant

Richard Marchant is a criminal lawyer. He studied at the University of Auckland and was admitted to the bar in 1985. He was a partner at Meredith Connell before establishing Regent Chambers in 2016. In 2025 he joined Acacia Chambers. He has been a Commissioner for Transport Accident Investigation and is a convenor for the Parole Board.

Balthazar Matheson

Bal Matheson is a resource management lawyer. He graduated from Otago University in 1998 and was admitted to the bar in 1999. He was a partner at Russell McVeagh before joining Richmond Chambers in 2016. He is a long-standing contributing author to New Zealand’s leading resource management law textbook.

Matthew Smith

Matthew Smith specialises in public law. He graduated from the University of Otago in 2005, was admitted to the bar in 2007 and obtained a Master of Laws from Harvard in 2009. He joined Thorndon Chambers in 2011, is the author of the New Zealand Judicial Review Handbook and is a member of the Legislation and Design Advisory Committee.

Alan Webb

Alan Webb is a resource management lawyer. He graduated from Victoria University in 1988 and was admitted to the bar in 1989. He was a partner at Norris Ward McKinnon before joining the bar and is a member of Quay Chambers. Alan has served on NZLS Complaints Committee and currently serves on the NZLS and The Law Association Environmental Law Committees, and the NZ Bar Association Advocacy Committee.

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch:

Today’s verdict brings an outcome to what has been an extremely challenging and difficult investigation. 

Police are pleased with the conviction today of the man who set the fatal fire that that killed five innocent men, injured others, and took the home of those who lived at Loafers Lodge.

I would like to acknowledge the families of the five victims whose loved ones were taken from them through the actions of this man, and recognise their patience and understanding during this long process.

I also want to acknowledge the residents of Loafers Lodge, many of whom gave evidence in the trial, and who have been present during the proceedings in the courtroom over the past month.

During the trial, we heard about the incredible bravery and courage of many of them who assisted in the initial fire-fighting efforts and helped many residents to safety. They were heroes. 

There was evidence heard of the actions of the firefighters that raced into the building to fight the fire and rescue trapped residents. They did all that was humanly possible to save the men.They couldn’t have done anything more, and I want to recognise their courage and professionalism.

I also want to thank the Police investigation team and crown prosecutors for their efforts, commitment, and professionalism over the past  two-and-a-half years. The investigation has been taxing, and my team have worked relentlessly to understand exactly what happened on that terrible night, and to provide answers for the affected families, the residents and the public. 

The investigation, however, does not end with this verdict. The police have not overlooked the actions of others who may have contributed to the deaths, and we look ahead to the trial in 2026 of the four people alleged to be involved with the management of the buildings fire safety systems.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre
 

Source: Privacy Commissioner

26 Sept 2025, 10:30

Right to Know Day on 28 September is a good reminder to New Zealanders of their right to access and correct their own information, the Privacy Commissioner says.

International Right to Know Day recognises the right to request access to information. The Privacy Act reinforces the importance of transparency and building trust in organisations.

“Organisations make decisions about people based on the information they hold, but these details and circumstances can frequently change, so it’s important people can access their personal information and check it’s accurate, Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster says.”

“All New Zealanders can ask what personal information organisations and businesses hold about them, and they can also ask to have this information corrected if it’s wrong.

“You can ask small and large businesses, government departments, schools, sports clubs, charities, and community groups and they must respond to your request within 20 working days. 

“An incorrect date of birth, address or name could affect a person’s ability to access services, funding or support, so it’s important people are able to check their details and make sure they’re accurate.”

Access to personal information is an important provision under the Privacy Act as people should be able to see what information agencies hold about them, while the correction of personal information gives people the right to ask agencies to correct information they think is wrong.

Further information:

Source: Worksafe New Zealand

26 September 2025

As the days grow longer, spring is the perfect time for farmers to take stock—not just of their livestock and crops, but of their health and safety practices too.

Source: New Zealand Police

A driver allegedly reaching speeds of more than three times the speed limit has been caught out by our eye in the sky.

The Police Air Support Unit was travelling over Pakuranga last night at about 11pm when they spotted a vehicle driving dangerously on Botany Road.

Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Ann Wilkie, says Eagle immediately contacted units on the ground and directed them to the vehicle’s location.

“The vehicle was estimated to be travelling in excess of 150kmh.

“Staff were able to safely stop the vehicle on Hope Farm Road where the driver underwent a breath screening test.

“He was subsequently found to be more than twice over the legal alcohol limit.”

Inspector Wilkie says there are four factors that can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads – restraints, impairment through alcohol and drugs, distractions, and speed.

“Motorists are urged to take greater responsibility on our roads and ensure everyone in their vehicle is able to reach their destination safely.

“It’s incredibly lucky this incident didn’t have a different outcome.”

The 34-year-old man had his vehicle impounded and enquiries are ongoing.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand

The Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) and Port of Auckland Limited have embarked on a journey to develop a world-class Fatigue Risk Management System, aimed at protecting the health and safety of port workers.

Port staff are engaging in a five-day intensive risk assessment workshop facilitated by Chronosafe, a specialist risk management consultancy from Australia.

The process will bring together workers, MUNZ representatives, and management to identify and control fatigue-related hazards in 24/7 port operations.

The initiative comes after years of advocacy by MUNZ for systemic change to address the dangers of worker fatigue in New Zealand’s port industry.

MUNZ Local 13 Secretary Grant Williams said this proactive and scientific approach was a vital step forward for the industry.

Mr Williams says fatigue is a killer on the waterfront, where workers have been exposed to the risks of cumulative fatigue from long hours and demanding roster patterns.

“This isn’t box ticking, this is about understanding the science of fatigue and building a system that keeps our people safe.”

“It’s a positive and significant step to see Port of Auckland working with MUNZ on this project. By engaging world-renowned experts and listening to the workers on the ground, together we can create a system that ensures every stevedore gets home safely to their family at the end of their shift.”

The workshop began this week with a comprehensive education session from leading fatigue expert, Professor Naomi Rogers-Woodhouse, on the science of human biology, sleep, and circadian rhythms.

This training provides the foundation for the risk assessment group to analyse the unique operational situations and roster designs that contribute to worker fatigue.

The project will use the Port Health and Safety Leadership Group’s Good Practice Guidelines as a framework, with the goal of creating a robust, science-backed system that manages risk and educates workers on the long-term health effects of shift work.

This initiative marks a commitment from both MUNZ and Port of Auckland to lead the industry in creating a safer, healthier, and more sustainable working environment for port workers.

Source: Maritime Union of New Zealand

On World Maritime Day (Thursday 25 September), the Maritime Union of New Zealand (MUNZ) is calling for greater recognition for the invisible workforce of seafarers and waterfront workers who form the backbone of the nation’s economy.

MUNZ National Secretary Carl Findlay says the work thousands of skilled and dedicated workers onshore and on the sea underpins our entire way of life.

Established by the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) and first observed in 1978, World Maritime Day recognizes the contribution of the international maritime industry to global trade and society.

For an island nation like New Zealand, which relies on sea freight for over 99% of its trade by volume, the day holds particular significance.

Mr. Findlay says that while consumers see the final product on the shelf, the complex, demanding, and often dangerous work that gets it there is easily forgotten.

“Our members work around the clock, in all weather, to ensure ships are loaded and discharged safely and efficiently. Seafarers spend months away from their families, facing the challenges of the open ocean, to keep global supply chains moving,” says Mr. Findlay.

“Waterfront workers, or stevedores, manage the complex logistics of our ports, operating heavy machinery to move millions of tonnes of cargo each year. Their skill and commitment are the reasons our exporters can reach world markets and our importers can stock our shelves.”

World Maritime Day highlights the need for continued investment in the welfare and safety of maritime workers, and in the resilience of New Zealand’s domestic shipping capabilities.

“If the last few years have taught us anything, it is that we cannot take our supply chain security for granted,” says Mr. Findlay.

The Maritime Union of New Zealand is campaigning for a national ports and shipping strategy that includes building up New Zealand coastal shipping.

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash in Mt Wellington on 15 September.

He was David Govindasamy Chetty, 66, of Auckland.

Our thoughts are with his friends and family at this time.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are continuing.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Police can now reveal further details about the assets and resources deployed during the search for Tom Phillips and his children.

In mid-December 2021 Phillips and his three children disappeared — for the second time in three months — from their farm in the small rural town of Marokopa, in Western Waikato.

The Police operation to locate them, which would later become known as Op Curly, came to an end in the early hours of Monday 8 September 2025 when Phillips shot and critically injured an officer before he himself was shot and killed by Police.

Over that period, the active investigation limited Police from disclosing the considerable measures employed during the search.

Detective Superintendent Ross McKay says while the specifics of the Police response will be subject to debriefs and reviews, some further detail can now be released.

“The vast area in which Phillips kept the children is difficult, steep terrain almost completely obscured from all angles by dense bush.

“At various times during the operation, Police specialist units such as Special Tactics Group, Armed Offenders Squad, Search and Rescue and Tactical Operations Group, were used.

“There was also support from the New Zealand Defence Force, with helicopter and ground assets.

“Other resources included geospatial imagery, thermal imagery, covert technology such as motion-activated cameras, and Airbus Flexrotor drones.”

The drones, supplied and operated by Airbus, flew for 111 hours over a period of two weeks in April this year.

“Police never stopped trying – thousands of hours were dedicated to the search,” Detective Superintendent McKay says.

“Intelligence played an important role in informing decisions and planning for possible outcomes.

“We knew Phillips had firearms and was motivated to use them.

“We also knew, based on previous actions and behavioural science analysis, that Phillips was unlikely to surrender easily and was prepared to put the children in harm’s way.

“The primary objective was locating and returning the children safely.

“Police focused on two key things to achieve that – finding a campsite or a supply route.

“The family regularly moved around and adapted their behaviour, meaning no sites were found.

“They were detected in transit on occasion but never in circumstances that allowed Police to safely intervene.

“While Operation Curly has concluded, it would not be appropriate for Police to provide further details ahead of the subsequent and ongoing investigations and reviews.

“However, I hope the information released today provides some reassurance about the lengths Police and its partner agencies went to in order to resolve this complex situation, as well as some clarity on the difficulties faced in achieving that safely.”

The children are in the guardianship of the Family Court, with Oranga Tamariki as the agent of the court.

Officer A has been discharged from hospital and his recovery is progressing.

The Police investigation into the critical incident on Monday 8 September is ongoing.

Police also continue to investigate the likelihood Phillips received outside support and are following strong lines of enquiry.

ENDS

Note for media:

NZ Police is releasing the above information following a significant number of media queries in relation to the actions taken during Op Curly, and in awareness of the public interest in having as many of those questions answered as possible.

However, due to ongoing investigations, there are still limits on the amount of detail that can provided.

Detective Superintendent Ross McKay will not be available for interviews at this point, due to those ongoing investigations and enquiries into this matter.