Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: New Zealand Police

Cardrona Valley Road has re-opened following a serious crash yesterday afternoon.

One person was critically injured, two people sustained serious injuries and a further two sustained moderate injuries.

Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing, and Police are advising motorists that the road will be reduced to one lane at for a period of time this afternoon for further enquiries to take place.

Please plan ahead and allow for extra time to travel along Cardrona Valley Road this afternoon.

We wish to thank everybody for their patience and understanding.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Police searching for missing man Jared have located a body in the Coromandel area.

The body was located yesterday evening while searching near the Coromandel Peninsula.

While formal identification is yet to take place, it is believed to be that of the missing 35-year-old.

Police’s thoughts and sympathies go out to his family during this difficult time.

The matter will be referred to the Coroner.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Cardrona Valley Road, south of Wānaka, is closed due to a serious crash.

At around 4pm emergency services received reports of the multiple-vehicle crash.

Police are in attendance and diversions are being set up.

Initial reports suggest that there are serious injuries.

Motorists should delay or avoid travel through the area if possible.

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Source: Worksafe New Zealand

3 September 2025

On 30 June 2025, WorkSafe was notified of a potential health risk involving imported materials, which may contain asbestos, used in the production of fire safety doors.

In response, we alerted the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), which is coordinating with other government agencies, and commenced a targeted health and safety response.

WorkSafe inspectors conducted urgent assessments at two companies — one of which was Pacific Door Systems Ltd (PDS). As a result, PDS sites in Wellington and Timaru were closed temporarily while they safely removed any asbestos-containing material and have since received independent clearance certificates and deemed safe for workers to return. Since then, we have conducted a number of site visits with different companies where we have been notified of similar concerns.

As the work health and safety regulator, WorkSafe’s role is to influence businesses and workers to ensure their work is healthy and safe. We also work with businesses and organisations to ensure they understand their obligations under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 and, in this context, relevant asbestos regulations.

We continue to provide advice to companies and end-users concerned about their staff being exposed to asbestos, to consult an Occupational Medicine Physician or equivalent specialist. These professionals are best equipped to assess, educate, and support workers who may have been exposed to asbestos-related health risks. We also continue to advise companies that have any concerns regarding the safe storage, handling and disposal of asbestos-containing materials or products.

For further guidance, we recommend referring to the following resources:

Source: New Zealand Police

The northbound lane of State Highway 2 near Upper Hutt is closed at the intersection with Totara Park Road following a crash. 

The crash, involving two cars, was reported to Police at 12.40pm.

One person is reported to have sustained serious injuries and one person minor injuries.

The road is expected to remain closed for around the next two hours (as at 3pm).

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  03 September 2025

The conifer removal is part of the Mautohe Cathedral Cove Sustainability Project reinstating walking access to the picturesque Coromandel beach. This long-term initiative is focused on safeguarding the cultural and environmental values of this iconic site and enhancing the visitor experience.

Local arborists have been on site since Monday (1 September), removing the pinus pinaster trees, more commonly known as maritime pine or cluster pine.

Michael Sparrow, DOC’s Mautohe Cathedral Cove Sustainability Project Manager says the exotic trees can spread fast, threatening this stunning landscape and crowding out native vegetation.

“By removing these conifers, we give native plants and trees a better chance to flourish along the Hahei Beach Short Walk and help enhance the mauri of the area.

“The largest of these conifers has a trunk girth of a metre and is about 35m tall. Mature trees release masses of windblown seeds. If not removed, they’ll take hold here and can spread widely, becoming extremely costly to control.”

The conifer removal follows a successful community planting day at nearby Waimata Gemstone Bay. The planting – led by Destination Hauraki Coromandel as part of its Good For Your Soul initiative – saw 300 native trees planted by members of Ngāti Hei, community members, and staff from local public sector agencies.

“This planting ensures Mautohe Cathedral Cove can be enjoyed now and safeguarded for future generations,” says Michael.

“What makes it special is that it’s a collective effort – iwi, residents, businesses, visitors, and tourism operators are all contributing.”

The conifer removal comes during Conservation Week 2025 and the launch of DOC’s Always Be Naturing campaign, which encourages New Zealanders to take action for nature.

“It’s fantastic this community values and takes action to care for and enhance this incredible place,” says Michael.

“There are simple and easy ways we can all do our bit for nature. Visit the Get involved section of the DOC website to see what you can do today.”

An estimated two million hectares of New Zealand is affected by wilding conifers. Uncontrolled infestations spread at 5% per year (approx. 90,000ha/year). Without any control they will form dense forests that have environmental consequences on our native ecosystems, use up scarce water, and alter iconic landscapes.

The arborists’ work is expected to be concluded on Friday (5 September). The wood from the felling will be broken down at site and left to rot down naturally.

Contact

Source: New Zealand Police

As New Zealand makes its way out of winter, Police are reminding people to take the right equipment when going tramping and hunting.

“We’re lucky to have great access to the outdoors, across the country,” says Detective Sergeant Alex Simister.

“But we need people to make sure when they’re heading into the bush, they’re doing it safely.

“Take the right gear, let someone know your return time and please take a beacon or communication device.

“Beacons are an essential piece of gear and can be rented for as little as ten dollars.”

Some new smart phones also have the capability to connect with satellites, giving them service in remote locations.

This feature does need to be set up beforehand.

“With the weather improving we’re expecting to see an increase in trampers and hunters – we don’t want anyone’s trip ending in tragedy.

“Even experienced people can end up in situations where they need help.”

If you are going outdoors, no matter if it is hiking, hunting, or climbing, please follow the five simple steps of the Land Safety Code,

1. Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it. It is important to choose a trip that suits everyone in your group. When you are looking at options, make sure to think about everyone’s fitness levels and experience in the outdoors.
2. Understand the weather. New Zealand weather can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed. Weather can make or break a trip. It is one of the most important things to consider when going into the outdoors.
3. Pack warm clothes and extra food. Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. Any trip, even if it is short and easy, needs preparation. Packing the right things can make trips safer and more enjoyable.
4. Share your plans and take ways to get help. Telling a trusted person about your trip details and taking a personal locator beacon can save your life. We all want our trips to go as planned – but sometimes they don’t. If you get hurt or lost on your trip, how would you get help?
5. Take care of yourself and each other. Eat, drink, and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together. The best way to enjoy your experience in the outdoors and make it home safely is to look out for one another.

Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres, and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.

If you have purchased a beacon, make sure to register it at www.beacons.org.nz.

For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go – AdventureSmart – NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart.

More information on trip planning can be found at: Trip Planning — NZMSC.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

Source: New Zealand Government

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today launched New Zealand’s refreshed strategic approach to eating disorders, bringing a significant funding boost and valuable updates for Kiwis for the first time in over 16 years.

“Today’s announcement increases investment in eating disorder services by over $4 million each year. That’s a 20 percent increase which will bring the total investment in eating disorders services to over $23 million annually,” Mr Doocey says.

“Support for eating disorders is best provided using a full continuum of care for eating disorders across prevention, primary health care, early intervention and community services, along with specialist and inpatient services for people with the highest needs.

“The changes today bring about meaningful changes that will ensure the strategy remains fit for purpose and continues to meet the needs of our communities.”

The new funding package includes ongoing investment to:  

• Roll out peer support to all regional eating disorders services. 
• Create community-based support for families and carers. 
• Increase the capacity of specialist eating disorders services. 
• Expand prevention and early intervention support.  

“I am pleased to mark New Zealand’s Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week with changes that will support New Zealanders navigating and battling eating disorders. The strategy sets out the actions we will take to support Kiwis, providing a roadmap and a strategic approach.

“Our mental health plan is working. We’re turning the corner on reducing wait times and increasing the mental health workforce. Recent data shows the frontline Health NZ mental health workforce has grown around 10 percent since we came into Government, and over 80 percent of people are being seen within three weeks for specialist services. 

“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: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  03 September 2025

Tunnel Beach Walk has been closed since October 2024 after a storm caused multiple large slips covering the track.

Acting Operations Manager for Coastal Otago Samantha Marsh says repairs will be done in two phases.

“Firstly, we are focussing on getting the track safely reopened for the summer by removing slip material, restoring the track surface, and opening existing drainage which was covered by the slip. Native planting to help stabilise the area will also get underway.”

After the busy summer season, more work to upgrade the water management on and around the track will be done, along with new seating and interpretation. This work will help protect the track into the future. The track may be closed for periods during this work.

“In the October storm, a single weather event caused multiple slips across the track. To keep people safe and ensure repairs last the distance, we needed a comprehensive engineering solution. This is especially important as we adapt to a changing environment where extreme rainfall events are expected to become more common.”

“From its inception the tunnel beach walk upgrade has been a project worked in collaboration with Ōtākou runaka, the Dunedin City Council, Aukaha, and other stakeholders. We’re looking forward to completing the track and fully realising the vision of the project.

“We know people love this walk, which is close to Dunedin and very scenic, and we thank them for their patience and understanding while a well thought through repair is completed.”

The first phase of repairs is expected to be completed in November.

Contact

Source: New Zealand Police

Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers has announced a new recruit wing will be starting at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) Auckland Campus on 9 February next year.

This will be the second group of recruits that will use the new facilities leased from Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University.

On 1 July we officially opened the RNZPC Auckland Campus, and we are already seeing the benefits from this facility for both senior courses and recruit training.

“There has been a lot of interest in another recruit wing in Auckland, so I’m pleased to announce this great news.

“Wing 390 is about halfway through their training now and the feedback we have had from them has been incredibly positive about their experience.

“I’ve visited them on a few occasions and have been very proud of the quality of training that is being delivered to a high standard.

“I know having the training delivered in Auckland was a real drawcard for many of those recruits.

“Being away from home for 20 weeks to attend recruit training in Porirua can be difficult for some, especially for those who are joining a bit later in life that have families.

“This is an opportunity for anyone who has always dreamed of becoming a police officer but the logistics of training in Porirua meant it wasn’t possible.

“It’s great to see our candidate pool opening for these exceptional people by providing this second opportunity in Auckland.

“Tāmaki Makaurau and Northland are priority areas for recruitment. The RNZPC Auckland Campus is supporting our efforts to grow our workforce in those areas.

“This opportunity is also open to those whose personal circumstances mean that training in Porirua wouldn’t be possible, like applicants who have family support in Auckland.”

The wing starting in Auckland in February, Wing 397, will follow the same format as the current Auckland Wing. There are residential spots available for those who live further away from the campus, while those who live nearby will be able to live at home. The bulk of the course will be in Auckland with recruits travelling to the RNZPC in Porirua for elements we cannot deliver in Auckland.

“We are developing world-class police officers and growing our frontline police presence. The number of officers on our frontline continues to trend upward,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers says.

“If you live in Auckland or Northland and you’ve been holding off in the hopes of another Auckland wing, apply now.”

If you are ready to start your training for one of the most rewarding careers there is, visit newcops.govt.nz to apply.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre