Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

As State Highway 2 recovery work nears completion in and around Devil’s Elbow, a stretch of the road will close overnight later this year for culvert (large pipe) repairs.

As State Highway 2 recovery work nears completion in and around Devil’s Elbow, a stretch of the road will close overnight later this year for culvert (large pipe) repairs.

The work will be carried out nightly, over a 3-week period, from Sunday 16 November to Friday 5 December, on SH2 between Waikoau Hill and Aropaoanui Road at Tangoio.

The road will be closed in both directions during that time from 9pm to 5am Sunday to Thursday nights (five nights each week, reopening 5am Friday). The road will remain open Friday and Saturday nights.

There will be no viable detours, and people are asked to plan their journeys around the closures.

Emergency vehicles will be assisted through the closure as required.

There will be road closure signs at Tutira Store north of the closure and at Whirinaki. Vehicles, including HPMV, will be able to turnaround at the closure points at Pan Pac Whirinaki (Napier side) and Mitchell Road (Wairoa side). 

The work

During the closure period, work will be carried out to replace approximately 10 culverts and repair others to help better manage stormwater runoff.

Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC) is carrying out the work, on behalf of NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi.

TREC project manager Richard Bayley says the culverts were damaged during Cyclone Gabrielle.

“Keeping water away from the road is one of the most important ways we can boost the resilience of our state highway network. These new and repaired culverts will do that.

“Full closures are required because crews and machinery will be working across both lanes of the road to complete resilience works and rebuilds. The narrow nature of this section of highway means traffic can’t safely travel around these worksites. By doing this work at night, we can minimise the disruption as much as possible.

The final push on SH2

As crews get ready to install and repair culverts, other work continues on SH2. Nightworks will be underway on Devil’s Elbow from 12 October for 3 weeks to repair culvert inlets and will be down to one lane in the sections we’re working on – expect a delay of 5-10 minutes.

Other work includes:

• Continuing to build the 12m high MSE (mechanically stabilized earth) wall at Devil’s Corner – Project I
• Repairing 2 underslips at Lake Tūtira underway until November
• Repairing an underslip and drainage at White Pine Bush from mid-October until late November
• Clearing culverts at Waikare Gorge until mid-October 
• Resealing at Waikoau Hill and White Pine Bush

In addition to this work, crews will also use the upcoming closures in November and December to deliver road rebuilds at Sandy Creek, Tangoio Falls and Te Ngarue. The existing road surface and underlying road structure (pavement) will be removed and replaced with new materials.

 “The end is in sight; it’s been a long time coming and we truly do appreciate the support we’ve received over the years from all road users and local communities. This is the final push towards a more resilient and ultimately safer journey for all,” says Mr Bayley.

“Our crews will return in January (between 18 and 30 January), once the culvert repairs have settled, to rebuild the entire stretch of SH2 through Devil’s Elbow. Asphalting this area will be the final piece of the puzzle, providing a smoother road for travellers and a more resilient road too,” says Mr Bayley.

More information on the January closures will be communicated closer to the time.

This work is contingent on the weather. Contingency nights are Sunday 7 December to Thursday 11 December (5 nights), 9pm to 5am each night for the November-December works.

The contingency nights for the January closures are Sunday 1 February to Wednesday 4 February (4 nights), 9pm to 5am each night.  

Source: Press Release Service

Headline: Advanced Security Group Honoured with Three Awards at the 2025 New Zealand Security Association Awards

Advanced Security Group is delighted to be recognised as winners in three distinguished categories at the 2025 New Zealand Security Industry awards.

The post Advanced Security Group Honoured with Three Awards at the 2025 New Zealand Security Association Awards first appeared on PR.co.nz.

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are releasing CCTV images from the last known sighting of missing 17-year-old Marley.

It shows Marley on Whitewash Head Road, Scarborough on Friday 26 September at 2:55pm.

Detective Sergeant Lucy Aldridge says Search and Rescue teams are continuing their search over the coming days, which will be focused on the coastline between Godley Head and Pines Beach. 

“Unfortunately, yesterday’s search provided no positive outcomes.

“The terrain is steep rocky cliffs and dense bush which makes it particularly challenging to search, so we are utilising the skills of experts to ensure the area has been thoroughly searched.

“We continue to follow all available lines of enquiry and thank those who have tried to assist us so far,” she says.

In the CCTV Marley can be seen to be wearing a light grey Adidas hoodie with white and black lettering, black shorts, black socks, and burgundy Converse shoes.

“We urge anyone in Scarborough who has CCTV/doorbell cameras to please check your footage from 2:50pm onwards on Friday.

“If you see or have seen Marley, please get in touch immediately,” Detective Sergeant Aldridge says.

Residents of Sumner and Scarborough can expect to see a higher than normal Police presence over the next few days as we continue the investigation.

If you see Marley please call Police on 111, quoting reference number: 250927/3331. Information after the fact can be made via 105, using the same reference number.

ENDS

Source: New Zealand Government

New investment to grow the physiotherapy workforce will ensure better access and shorter wait times for orthopaedic care, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Ensuring all New Zealanders can access timely, quality healthcare is a priority for our Government,” Mr Brown says.

“The new Musculoskeletal (MSK) orthopaedic pathway, introduced in August 2024, is already making a real difference. So far, more than 7200 first specialist assessments (FSAs) and over 9500 follow-up appointments have been completed – and this is just the beginning.”

The MSK orthopaedic pathway enables experienced physiotherapists to assess and treat patients with hip, knee, back, or shoulder conditions. Patients are triaged earlier and receive a faster diagnosis, with these physiotherapists able to identify whether surgical or non-surgical treatment is required. 

Recognised internationally, this model has been shown to reduce unnecessary surgery and support better outcomes for patients.

“To build on this success, we are expanding the Advanced Clinical Practice Physiotherapist workforce, with Health New Zealand recruiting an additional 15.6 FTE on top of the 21.47 FTE already delivering FSAs across the country.

“One full-time physiotherapist in these advanced roles can deliver around 1200 FSAs per year, significantly increasing capacity to assess patients requiring orthopaedic appointments.

“In addition, up to 50 experienced physiotherapists will be supported to undertake postgraduate training at the Auckland University of Technology and the University of Otago, enabling them to complete FSAs as part of the pathway.

“By enabling physiotherapists to take on more assessments, we are freeing up hospital specialists to focus on patients who need their care most – helping us achieve our target of 95 per cent of patients receiving their FSA or elective treatment within four months.

“It’s a smarter use of our workforce, allowing more people to be treated, and more quickly.

“The expansion of the MSK orthopaedic pathway means faster assessments, shorter wait times, and better outcomes for patients. It’s about putting patients first and delivering the quality healthcare New Zealanders deserve.”

Source: New Zealand Government

Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka has today confirmed seven new appointments to key Māori entities, bringing leadership, expertise and experience to the organisations to further support Māori development.

“The governance roles announced today will help advance te reo Māori revitalisation, strengthen the Waitangi Tribunal, and realise the social and economic potential of Māori. This benefits Māori and everyone in Aotearoa New Zealand,” says Mr Potaka.

The entities and appointments are:

Te Mātāwai

Dr Te Rina Warren (Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Rangitāne, Ngāti Matakore) as a member for a three-year term. Dr Warren is a senior lecturer at Te Pūtahi-a-Toi, Massey University, specialising in Māori and Indigenous education.

Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori

Mahanga Pihama (Waikato, Taranaki Iwi, Ngāti Ruanui) as a member for a three-year-term. Mr Pihama is an experienced broadcaster, documentary and film director-producer.
Dr Jeremy (Tātere) MacLeod (Ngāti Kahungunu) as Deputy Chair for the remainder of his term. He has served on the board since 2019 and brings 15 years of experience in governance and Māori language revitalisation.

Te Māngai Pāho

Reikura Kahi (Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Porou, Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāti Hine) as member and Chair for an 18-month term. Mrs Kahi is an independent producer in Māori television and film, and a Māori language consultant.
Kingi Kiriona (Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Apa, Ngā Rauru) as member and Deputy Chair for a three-year term. Mr Kiriona is Managing Director of Tupu Ora, which provides Māori language and capability development services to Iwi and public sector agencies.

“Today’s appointments bring a wealth of expertise in te reo Māori, education, media, and governance – all of which are essential to advancing our shared mission to revitalise our taonga, te reo Māori. These leaders will play a vital role in helping us achieve our collective aspiration: to have one million New Zealanders confidently using te reo Māori by 2040,” says Mr Potaka.

Poutama Trust

Mark Gray (Tapuika, Ngāti Rongomai, Tūhourangi) as trustee for a five-year term. Mr Gray is an experienced corporate leader with a strong background in the legal, investment, governance, financial, energy, export and resource development sectors.

“Mark Gray’s appointment to the Poutama Trust will strengthen the Trust’s ability to provide important business development services to Māori. This is essential for creating jobs, boosting incomes and enabling whānau to achieve their aspirations.

“Since its inception, the Poutama Trust has played a key role in nurturing Māori business talent and skills, enabling greater participation in both Māori and national economic growth.”

Waitangi Tribunal

Juliet Tainui-Hernandez (Ngāi Tahu, Te Whakatōhea) as a member for a three-year term. Ms Tainui-Hernandez is a full-time director serving on the boards of ASB Bank and Whai Rawa Fund Ltd. She also has expertise in regulatory law and Māori economic development.

“The appointment of Juliet Tainui-Hernandez will help strengthen the Waitangi Tribunal for the benefit of Māori and all New Zealanders,” Mr Potaka says.

“As the Tribunal reaches its fiftieth anniversary, it’s important we ensure the board has the right balance of skills to continue its important mahi hearing and reporting Māori treaty claims in a timely manner.”

Kua whakamana ngā kopounga mana ārahi

Kua whakamanahia e te Minita Whanaketanga Māori Tama Potaka ngā kopounga hou e whitu ki ngā hinonga Māori matua, e mau mai ana i te tohungatanga me te wheako ki aua whakahaere hei tautoko anō i te whanaketanga Māori.

“Ko ngā tūranga mana ārahi i pānuitia ai i te rangi nei e āwhina ki te pana whakamua i ngā mahi whakarauora i te reo Māori, e whakapakari i Te Rōpū Whakamana i te Tiriti o Waitangi, e whakatinana hoki i te pitomata ā-pāpori, ā-ōhanga anō hoki o te iwi Māori. He painga tēnei mā te iwi Māori, oti rā, mā ngā tāngata katoa o Aotearoa,” te kī a Minita Potaka.

E whai ake nei ko ngā hinonga me ngā kopounga:

Te Mātāwai

Ko Tākuta Te Rina Warren (Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Rangitāne, Ngāti Matakore) hei mema mō te toru tou. He pūkenga matua a Tākuta Warren ki Te Pūtahi-a-Toi, Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa, he mātanga ia i te mātauranga Māori, mātauranga Iwi Taketake hoki.

Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori

Ko Mahanga Pihama (Waikato, ngā Iwi o Taranaki, Ngāti Ruanui) hei mema mō te toru tau. He kaipāpāho wheako nui a Mahanga, he kaitohu-kaitaki pakipūmeka, kiriata anō hoki ia.
Ko Tākuta Jeremy (Tātere) Macleod (Ngāti Kahungunu) hei Toihau Tuarua mō te toenga o tōna wā. Kua noho ia ki te poari mai i te tau 2019, e mau mai ana hoki i te wheako o te 15 tau e mahi ana i ngā mahi mana ārahi me ngā mahi whakarauora i te reo Māori.

Te Māngai Pāho

Ko Reikura Kahi (Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Porou, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāti Hine) hei mema, hei Heamana hoki mō te 18 marama. He kaitaki motuhake a Reikura i te pouaka whakaata me te kiriata Māori, he mātanga reo Māori anō hoki ia.
Ko Kīngi Kiriona (Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Apa, Ngā Rauru) hei mema, hei Toihau Tuarua hoki mō te toru tau. Ko te Pou Whakahaere o Tupu Ora a Kīngi, he mea whakarato i ngā ratonga reo Māori, ratonga whakawhanake āheinga hoki ki ngā Iwi me ngā hinonga rāngai tūmatanui.

“Mā ngā kopounga o te rangi nei e mau mai i te whānuitanga o te tohungatanga i te mātauranga, te pāpāho, me te mana ārahi reo Māori – katoa mai he mea mātuatua ki te whakapikinga o tō mātou kaupapa ngātahi ki te whakarauora ake i tō tātou taonga te reo Māori. He tūranga nui tō ēnei kaiārahi ki te āwhina i a tātou ki te whakatutuki o tō tātou moemoeā ngātahi: arā, kia kotahi miriona tāngata o Aotearoa e māia ake nei te kōrero i te reo Māori i mua i te 2040,” te kōrero a Minita Potaka.

Poutama Trust

Ko Mark Gray (Tapuika, Ngāti Rongomai, Tūhourangi) hei kaitiaki mō te rima tau. He kaiārahi rangatōpū whai wheako a Gray kua roa nei e mahi ana i ngā rāngai ture, te haumi, te mana ārahi, te pūtea, te pūngao me te whakawhanaketanga rauemi.

“Mā te kopounga o Mark Gray ki te Poutama Trust e whakapakari i te āhei o Poutama ki te whakarato i ngā ratonga whanaketanga pakihi whakahirahira ki te Iwi Māori. He mea nui tēnei mō te waihanganga o ngā mahi, e whakapiki ake ana i ngā whiwhinga pūtea me te tautoko i ngā whānau ki te whakatutuki ō rātou moemoeā.

“Mai i tōna takenga mai, he tūranga nui tō te Poutama Trust i te poipoinga o ngā pūmanawa me ngā pūkenga pakihi Māori, e tautoko ana i te whakapikinga o te whai wāhitanga i te tipuranga ōhanga a te Māori, ā-motu anō hoki.”

Te Rōpu Whakamana i te Tiriti o Waitangi

Ko Juliet Tainui-Hernandez (Ngāi Tahu, Te Whakatōhea) hei mema mō te toru tau. He pou whakahaere wā-katoa a Tainui-Hernandez e mahi ana ki ngā poari o te ASB Bank me Whai Rawa Fund Ltd. He tohunga ia ki te ture whakahaere me te whanaketanga ōhanga Māori.

“Mā te kopounga o Juliet Tainui-Hernandez e āwhina ki te whakapakari i Te Rōpu Whakamana i te Tiriti o Waitangi mō te painga o te iwi Māori, oti rā, o ngā tāngata katoa o Aotearoa,” te kī a Minita Potaka.

“Ka pātata haere nei te Taraipiunara ki tōna huritau tuangahuru mā rima, he mea nui kia mātua whakaritea he tika ngā pūkenga o te poari kia pai ai te haere tonu o ngā mahi nui whakaharahara i ngā nohoanga me te whakatakoto pūrongo e pā ana ki ngā kokoraho tiriti Māori i roto i ngā herenga wā e tika ana.

 

Additional information on appointments

Te Mātāwai appointment
Dr Te Rina Warren (Ngāti Whitikaupeka, Rangitāne, Matakore) has been appointed to the board of Te Mātāwai for a three-year term.

Te Rina Warren is a Senior Lecturer at Te Pūtahi-a-Toi, Massey University, specialising in Māori, and Indigenous Education. Her teaching spans Māori-medium and English-medium contexts, including courses on Te Aho Tātairangi and the politics of Māori education. Her research explores kaupapa Māori development, tikanga Māori, and the evolving role of digital technologies in cultural practice.

Te Rina holds a PhD from Massey University, where she examined the impact of the internet on tikanga Māori. She is actively engaged in iwi and marae-based initiatives and has contributed to Māori-medium education and youth development. Her academic work also includes a focus on traditional Māori governance models and their relevance in contemporary contexts, particularly in relation to iwi development and Māori-led decision-making.

Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori appointments
Mahanga Pihama (Waikato, Ngāti Ruanui and Taranaki Iwi) has been appointed as Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori board member for a three-year-term.

Mr Pihama has a background as a broadcaster (including as a director and producer of documentaries and films), is a raukura of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hoani Waititi Marae and graduate of Te Panekiretanga o te reo.

He is also a member of, and composer for Ngā Tūmanako, and is a long-time chair of Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Hoani Waititi Marae, and Poumata of Te Rūnanga o Ngā Kura Kaupapa Māori o Aotearoa. He’s fluent in te reo Māori and brings his deep understanding of tikanga Māori and community engagement to the role. Mr Pihama offers strong cultural and relational competency across Māori and mainstream contexts.
Dr Jeremy (Tātere) MacLeod (Ngāti Kahungunu) has been appointed Deputy Chair of Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori for the remainder of his term.

Dr MacLeod has served on the board since 2019 and brings 15 years’ experience in governance and Māori language revitalisation across Iwi, community, and private sectors.

He is an award-winning language expert, cultural advisor and graduate of Te Panekiretanga o te Reo. Dr MacLeod has been leading the inter-generational language revitalisation strategy, Kahungunu, Kia Eke! for his Ngāti Kahungunu Iwi for several years. He brings continuity and alignment with sector priorities across Iwi, community, and private sectors.

Te Māngai Pāho appointments

Reikura Kahi (Waikato-Tainui, Ngāti Porou, Whānau-ā-Apanui, Ngāti Hine) has been appointed Chair and member of Te Māngai Pāho for an 18-month term.

Reikura Kahi’s work experience includes Programme Commissioner at Māori Television for four years. There she was responsible for commissioning more than $10 million in programming annually and assessed the quality and quantity of te reo Māori within programmes.

Mrs Kahi has been an assessor for Te Māngai Pāho, as well as a consultant on behalf of those seeking funding. Her roles as a kapa haka tutor and storyteller through TV and film highlight her commitment to promoting Māori culture.  Through her work Mrs Kahi has been successfully growing and maintaining te reo Māori in urban communities.

 

Kingi Kiriona (Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Apa, Ngā Rauru) has been appointed Deputy Chair and member of Te Māngai Pāho for a three-year term.

Kingi Kiriona is Managing Director of Tupu Ora, which provides Māori language and capability development services to Iwi and public sector agencies. He is a board member of Whakaata Māori and was appointed to the Waitangi Tribunal in 2025.

Mr Kiriona previously served as Deputy Chief Executive Mātauranga Māori at Te Aka Whai Ora and as Executive Director Māori Outcomes for Te Ahu a Tūranga Alliance. He has held senior roles in Māori education, including at Waikato Institute of Technology, and contributed to national initiatives such as Te Ahu o te Reo Māori and Ngā Kura ā-Iwi.

He began his career in journalism at TVNZ’s Te Karere. He holds an MA (Music) with distinction and qualifications in te reo Māori, performing arts, and media, and is a licensed translator and graduate of Te Panekiretanga o te Reo.

Poutama Trust appointment

Mark Gray (Tapuika, Ngāti Rongomai, Tūhourangi) has been appointed to the Poutama Trust for a five-year term.

Mark Gray is currently Group General Counsel for Magnis Energy Technologies Limited and a non-executive Director of Telkwa Mining Limited. Mr Gray holds a Bachelor of Laws from Victoria University and has been admitted to practice in New Zealand and Australia.

His law experience spans major law firm practice, corporate law and niche General Counsel roles. Mr Gray’s previous roles include founder and Chief Executive Officer of Allegiance Coal, Head of Legal for DiamonEx Ltd, Chief Executive Officer of Bounty Industries Limited and Partner of Bell Gully Buddle Weir in Wellington. Mr Gray is an experienced corporate leader with a strong background in the legal, investment, governance, financial, energy, export and resource development sectors.

Waitangi Tribunal appointment

Juliet Tainui-Hernandez (Ngāi Tahu, Te Whakatōhea) has been appointed by the Governor General to the Waitangi Tribunal for a three-year term.

Ms Tainui-Hernandez is a full-time director serving on the boards of ASB Bank and Whai Rawa Fund Ltd, and formerly Ngāi Tahu Holdings Corporation. She has governance experience across commercial, financial, and Iwi sectors, with expertise in regulatory law and Māori economic development.

Her previous roles include Chief Compliance Officer at Norton Rose Fulbright and Assistant Governor at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. She began her legal career at Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu and has practised in New Zealand, Australia, and the UK. She continues to advise trusts, corporates, and her home rūnanga, Ōnuku, integrating legal and policy expertise with kaupapa Māori principles.

 

 Memberships as at 16 September 2025

Bolded names indicate outgoing members.

Poutama Trust

Member
Date of appointment
Expiry date

Kim Skelton (Chair)
03/08/2020
03/08/2025

Rachel Maidment
03/08/2020
03/08/2025

Hinerangi Edwards
02/06/2021
01/06/2026

Heta Hudson
02/09/2023
01/09/2028

Riki Ellison
02/09/2023
01/09/2028

 

Te Mātāwai

Member
Date of appointment
Expiry date

Ministerial appointed members

Penetaui Kleskovic
16/04/2019
15/05/2025

Reikura Kahi
19/03/2025
18/03/2028

Te Mātāwai appointed members

Brenda Soutar (Co-Chair)
01/04/2021
31/03/2027

Mātai Smith (Co-Chair)
01/01/2020
31/12/2026

Kiri Tamihere-Waititi
28/02/2025
27/02/2028

Kylie Brown
01/10/2018
30/09/2025

Teina Boasa-Dean
10/10/2018
09/10/2025

Dr Haki Tuaupiki
08/08/2022
07/08/2025

Hohepa Isaac-Sharland
01/09/2023
31/08/2026

Agnes MacFarland
01/12/2023
30/11/2026

Aperahama Edwards
01/09/2021
31/08/2023

Ruakiri Fairhall
27/10/2024
26/10/2027

Kiwa Hammond
10/02/2025
09/02/2028

 

Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori

Member
Date of appointment
Expiry date

Professor Rawinia Higgins (Chair), MNZM – Te Mātāwai nominee
30/06/2018
27/09/2026

Charisma Rangipunga (Deputy Chair) – Te Mātāwai nominee
30/06/2015
30/11/2024

Te Haumihiata Mason, ONZM – Te Mātāwai nominee
28/03/2025
27/03/2028

Te Atamira Jennifer

Ward-Lealand, CNZM – Ministerial appointment

31/08/2023
01/09/2026

Dr Jeremy Tātere MacLeod – Ministerial appointment (Becomes Deputy Chair for remainder of his term)
22/10/2019
01/09/2026

 

Te Māngai Pāho

Member
Date of appointment
Expiry date

Dr Eruera Tarena (Chair) – Ministerial appointment
12/02/2014
05/03/2025

Paraone Gloyne (Deputy Chair) – Te Mātāwai nominee
10/07/2019
05/03/2025

Tamalene Painting – Te Mātāwai nominee
01/07/2020
27/03/2028

Brian Morris – Ministerial appointment
05/09/2023
05/09/2026

Erana Reedy – Te Mātāwai nominee
28/03/2025
27/03/2028

 

 

Waitangi Tribunal

Member
Date of appointment
Expiry date

Chief Judge Dr Caren Fox
22/08/2023
22/08/2028

Professor David Williams
31/03/2023
13/03/2026

Professor Susy Frankel FRSNZ
29/01/2020
13/07/2026

Dr Paul Hamer
29/01/2020
13/07/2026

Basil Morrison
25/08/2008
13/07/2026

Kevin Prime
24/05/2021
10/10/2027

Kenneth Williamson
10/10/2024/
10/10/2027

Dr Hana O’Regan ONZM
24/05/2021
18/12/2027

Derek Fox
24/05/2021
18/12/2027

Professor Tā William Te Rangiua (Pou) Temara
25/08/2008
18/12/2027

Dr Ruakere Hond
24/10/2018
18/12/2027

Kim Ngarimu
24/10/2018
18/12/2027

Tipene Chrisp
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Philip Crump
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Vanessa Eparaima MNZM
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Grant Hadfield
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Rex Hale
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Kingi Kiriona
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Tafaoimalo Leilani Tuala-Warren
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Hon Ron Mark
18/12/2024
18/12/2027

Gerrard Albert
17/04/2025
16/04/2028

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Bylaws for nine existing mātaitai reserves along the West Coast will support local communities and kaitiaki to protect local fisheries for today’s fishers and future generations, says Allen Frazer, Manager Inshore Fisheries South, Fisheries New Zealand. 

“The new bylaws were made by the tāngata tiaki/kaitiaki (guardians) of the mātatai reserves, with the goal of reversing the depletion of key fish stocks, making the local marine system healthier, and ensuring there is plentiful kaimoana in these areas in the long term,” Allen Frazer says. 

“The rules are different for each of the Ngāti Māhaki Mātaitai, but include reduced daily catch limits for some species, a 70 mm maximum tail width for spiny rock lobster, prohibitions on taking seaweed and some shellfish, and the introduction of vessel limits.” 

The Ngāti Māhaki Mātaitai reserves are a network of 9 mātaitai near Haast, which were established in 2011 and 2012. The locations of the 9 mātaitai are:

• Okarito Lagoon
• Manakaiaua/Hunts Beach
• Mahitahi/Bruce Bay
• Paringa (Knights Point to Buttress Point)
• Tauparikaka (Tauperikaka Point to Fox Creek outlet)
• Popotai Taumaka/Open Bay Islands
• Okuru/Mussel Point
• Okahu/Jackson Bay
• Tauneke/Barn Bay

Mātaitai reserves are customary fishing areas that recognise the relationship between tangata whenua and their traditional fishing grounds. They allow customary and recreational fishing and can include bylaws that are proposed by the tangata kaitiaki/tiaki (guardians). These bylaws are subject to public consultation and ultimately approved by the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries. 

Outside of the Mātaitai reserves the normal Challenger Area rules continue to apply. 

Fishers can help Fishery Officers inspecting their catch by keeping a record of where they have been fishing. This can be recorded on vessel chart plotters or shown in geolocated photographs.

“Fisheries New Zealand wants to thank the tāngata tiaki, kaitiaki, local communities, and everyone who submitted as part of the public consultation on these bylaws,” says Allen Frazer.

All the bylaws come into force on 1 October 2025. 

You can view the rules, and maps of each mātaitai, on MPI’s website:

Challenger area fishing rules

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328. 

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  01 October 2025

“We decided on these prices after comprehensive market research, and engagement with Treaty Partners, stakeholders, and the community at these two sites” says Director of Heritage and Visitors, Catherine Wilson. “The outcome is a pricing proposal which we think is fair and reasonable.”

The pricing structure aims to answer submitters’ calls for an initial free period, special consideration for locals, free parking for concessionaires, and a reasonable price for both regular users and occasional visitors.

The final details of the pricing are:

• Free parking period for 20 minutes to allow for drop-offs/pick-ups or staying a short time
• Hourly rate of $5 per hour
• Daily rate of $20 per day
• Annual pass for locals (within Buller, Grey and Westland district boundaries) of $10 per vehicle per year, allowing unlimited access during the year
• Annual pass for other regular visitors of $60 per vehicle per year
• Commercial tourism operators who hold a valid concession will be able to apply for a parking fee exemption for the duration of the pilot.

“Following a competitive tendering process DOC has appointed Stellar to be the company that provides paid parking hardware and associated services,” explains Catherine. “They have a strong track record of delivering customer-focused parking solutions and take a constructive approach to enforcement through clear communication and fair processes.”

Payment machines will be installed at the sites and cameras will record the entry and exit of vehicles. Non-payment of parking fees will incur breach notices, which will be issued by Stellar.

DOC’s estimated combined revenue from the Dolomite Point and Franz Josef paid parking pilots is expected to be approximately $1million over the seven-month pilot period (December 2025 to June 2026 inclusive).

Once the pilot is completed and the benefits have been assessed, a decision will be made whether to continue with paid parking at the three sites, and if it should be extended to other sites.

The introduction of a paid parking programme enables visitors to contribute to conservation facilities as they are out naturing,” says Catherine. “This is standard practice at many national parks overseas, and most international visitors accept this as a necessary contribution to support amazing nature sites.”

The paid parking pilot is planned to start in December 2025 and continue for seven months until the end of June 2026. Paid parking is also planned to be introduced at White Horse Hill, Aoraki Mt Cook in December 2025. Submissions are currently open for feedback on a proposal for that site until 22 October.

For more information visit this web page:

Paid parking pilot programme

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  01 October 2025

The artifacts included metal wheels, axles and chain associated with the mine.

The area is a popular tourist attraction in the Buller and showcases the old mine site, including the well-known Denniston Incline.

Many of the weathered artifacts remain at site and hint at the living and working conditions from the 1880s, when coal was first sent down the Denniston Incline, to 1967, when the mine closed.

Unfortunately, over time many of these items have been stolen prompting the Department of Conservation to increase its efforts to prevent further thefts by increasing surveillance at the site.

Those efforts have led to the identification of and enforcement action against the man through an infringement notice.

The decision to issue an infringement notice, rather than a harsher penalty, reflects the fact the attempt to remove the items from site was not completed, and the artifacts were left on site.

Suvi Van Smit, Operations Manager for the Buller District says Denniston is classified as a category one Historic Place.

“The site attracts visitors to the Buller and holds a significant piece of New Zealand’s mining history,” she says. “The Denniston Incline is considered a work of engineering genius and the artifacts at the site help tell the story of what took place there.

“I encourage all people to leave places like these as they find them and avoid any potentially embarrassing and costly interactions with our compliance team or the Police. Denniston is a fantastic place to get out naturing, so please treat it with the respect it deserves.”

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  01 October 2025

A new 42 m suspension bridge across the Routeburn River is now open, reconnecting the popular Lake Sylvan Track after the previous bridge was damaged in a significant storm in 2020, repaired, and then swept away in another storm in 2023.

Department of Conservation Whakatipu Wai Māori Operations Manager David Butt says resilience in the face of increasing storm events has been a big consideration for the replacement bridge.

“Nature is our biggest asset, and it’s important we do the work to ensure we’re investing our efforts across our network of tracks and bridges in the right places,” he says.

“The old bridge site at the Sylvan Campsite was prone to erosion, an issue that was likely to continue. After thorough investigations with our team of engineers we made the call to build a replacement at a more stable site, around 600 m upriver from the campsite.”

The new bridge is also approximately 11 m above the river’s median river height, greatly increasing its resilience to erosion and flood events.

A new section of approximately 1.5 km of track has been constructed to connect the bridge to the Sylvan Campsite and other popular walking tracks in the area, such as Lake Sylvan Track.

The Lake Sylvan Track is hugely popular with locals, families and visitors looking for a gentler naturing experience within Mt Aspiring National Park, says David.

“Lake Sylvan Track is a great option for most visitors, offering scenic views, a gentle gradient and the chance to see native species like titipounamu, pīwakaka and toutouwai along the way.

“It’s an excellent alternative for those who don’t have the time or experience for the three-day Routeburn Track but still want to experience a connection to nature.”

The bridge also provides access for experienced trampers to back country tracks like the Beans Burn and Sugarloaf/Rock Burn Track. Pre-Covid, the site received 11,000 – 14,000 walkers per year.

Having the bridge opened ahead of the busy summer season is great news for the local community, says David.

“The Lake Sylvan area is a popular place for locals. We appreciate people’s patience as we’ve worked hard to get this new bridge open in a safer, more resilient spot.”

Contact

Source: New Zealand Government

The Minister for RMA Reform, Minister of Agriculture, and Minister for the Environment have set clear expectations to all Regional and Unitary Councils to take a pragmatic approach when issuing consents, ahead of the transition to the new planning system.    

“Ministers continue to receive concerning reports of councils across the country applying stringent, unnecessary, and burdensome requirements when issuing new consents, particularly for our farmers and growers,” Mr Bishop says.

“Our country relies on our rural producers. At a time of economic challenges, councils should be doing all they can to unlock economic growth, not stymie it.

“Farmers are not the enemy. Working on the land is not a ‘nice to have’ – it’s vital for our country’s success. Prior to the induction of our new planning system, councils need to recognise that they’ll need to be pragmatic and flexible to ensure our rural economy continues to operate.” 

“The RMA gives local authorities power to exercise discretion over consent processes. This includes extending consenting timeframes and working with individual applicants to reach pragmatic solutions,” Mr McClay says.

“Later this year, a regime to transition consents into the new system will be released. Until then, we expect councils to use this discretion where appropriate. Farmers should not be punished for what amounts to bureaucratic process.”

“We know that the transition into a new planning system could create some bumps for those sectors whose livelihoods depend on their consents. The Government expects local authorities to smooth those bumps as much as possible,” Ms Simmonds says. 

“Local Authorities need to recognise that the system is changing, and change their behaviour accordingly. The Government has committed to working alongside councils to support the implementation of, and alignment with, the future system.”