Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Police

A pair who filled up three shopping trolleys’ worth of goods from Kmart in Botany before allegedly leaving without paying will spend Christmas rethinking their choices.

Just after 10.30am yesterday, Police were called to the store following a report of a man and woman stealing dozens of items.

Senior Sergeant Simon Cornish, of Counties Manukau East Police, says the duo were seen leaving in a vehicle and a detailed description was provided to officers.

“Police have made a number of enquiries and subsequently located the vehicle at an address in Great South Road, Manurewa.

“Two people were quickly arrested and about $400 worth of goods were recovered from the vehicle.

“This was great work by our frontline staff who arrived quickly, received a detailed account of what had occurred and the vehicle involved and were able to bring this to a close.

“Christmas is a time for giving, not taking, and this serves as a reminder that people who choose to take part in this type of crime will be held to account.”

A 35-year-old woman has been charged with two counts of shoplifting and driving without a license and will appear in Manukau District Court on Christmas Eve.

If you see any suspicious or illegal activity or are a victim to theft, try noting as much detail as possible and contact Police on 111 if it’s happening now or 105 if it’s after the fact.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is reminding all New Zealanders to drive safely this summer, with Police set to be out in force to help keep our roads safe, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Whether you’re heading to see loved ones, taking a road trip with friends, or exploring our country, please make safe choices – road safety is a responsibility we all share,” Mr Bishop says

“Police will be visible anywhere, anytime. They will be out to deter any dangerous behaviour that impacts the safety of road users including speeding, driving under the influence, and ensuring road users are wearing their seatbelts.

“Alcohol and drug impairment remains one of the biggest killers on our roads. Sadly, around 30% of road deaths involve an impairing drug. Last week, I watched one of the first roadside drug tests be administered. I am looking forward to these tests being rolled around the country and improving road safety.  

“Check the weather, plan your breaks, and make sure you’re fit to drive. If you’re under the influence, don’t get behind the wheel. While we all have a part to play in keeping our roads safe, the Government is also investing in key transport projects to make holiday travel smoother and safer. 

“Spades are now in ground on Ōtaki to North of Levin, Takitimu North Link Stage 1, SH29 Tauriko West, and Hawke’s Bay Expressway in our Roads of National Significance programme. Once these are completed it will help ease traffic for road users so they can get on with their Christmas holidays even faster.”

Notes to editor: 

• The official Christmas–New Year holiday period runs from 4pm Tuesday 24 December 2024 to 6am Monday 5 January 2025.
• NZTA has updated their popular online holiday journeys traffic prediction tool, which shows predicted traffic flows over the Christmas and New Year holiday, based on previous year’s travel patterns. This handy ‘trip hack’ is a great way to plan your trips and avoid the stress of getting caught up in lengthy delays: Holiday journeys traffic prediction tool | NZTA Journey Planner (external link)

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  22 December 2025

Frequently visited spots include Tongariro National Park, Huka Falls in Taupō, and the Bridge to Nowhere in Whanganui National Park.

Short walks and accessible locations are favourites for kiwis looking to make the most of the warmer weather.

DOC Central North Island Acting Director Sandy Woodhead says the report shows people want to pack a lot of nature and heritage into short visits.

“We’re seeing people enjoying beautiful short walks, keeping it simple and affordable, especially as we’ve all been facing a tough year,” says Sandy.

Domestic visits to protected natural areas dipped slightly over the past year, something the report links to storm events, slips, road closures and the cost of living.

Sandy says despite this, people are still keen to get outdoors.

“Central North Island has so many beautiful locations and experiences on offer, you can find all of these on our website to plan your summer naturing.”

International visitation has now rebounded to more than 90 percent of pre-COVID levels. Beaches and national parks remain the backbone of the international itinerary, with 57 percent visiting a beach and 52 percent visiting a national park, and 72 percent heading out for a walk.

Tongariro National Park is the third biggest drawcard for international visitors, with its world-famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing, and Dual World Heritage listing for its cultural and ecological values.

Sandy says even after the devastating fires of November and early December, the park is a popular destination.

“It’s iconic, but we do want people to know it’s more than just the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, there are many incredible experiences to be had in the national park, and if the weather is bad they’ll definitely be better options!”

Sandy says as New Zealanders and internationals approach their summer naturing it’s important they take the time to prepare, even for short visits.

“Keep yourself safe with the right gear, check the forecast, and plan for changing conditions.

“You can help keep the places we love safe by keeping your distance from wildlife, checking the DOC website for the rules around dog access, and taking your litter home with you.”

“If we protect New Zealand’s unique spaces, our tamariki and their tamariki will be able to enjoy nature as much as we do.” 

Contact

Source: Worksafe New Zealand

22 December 2025

Find out how to notify us over the holiday period.

Source: New Zealand Government

$848,000 in government grants targeted towards reducing harm in high-risk recreational maritime environments will help protect boaties on the water this summer, Associate Transport Minister James Meager says.

“For many Kiwis, getting out on the water is what summer is all about. However, we know that does come with some risks. That’s why we’ve invested in locally driven programmes to reduce harm in high-risk areas,” Mr Meager says.

The Maritime NZ funding consists of $773,000 for 30 community education initiatives focused on small craft users, close-to-shore activities and groups over-represented groups in drowning statistics. $75,000 will be provided to 11 regional authorities to undertake targeted on-water compliance checks.

“The local funding stretches from the top of Northland right down to the bottom of Southland, ensuring all parts of New Zealand can strengthen community-led safety initiatives, support bar-crossing education, and enhance regional compliance capability throughout the busy summer season,” Mr Meager says.

“For example, Watersafe Auckland Inc has been allocated $43,000 to deliver water safety education at high-traffic boat ramps across Auckland, while Queenstown Lakes District Council’s $10,000 grant will fund a programme aimed to recreational craft operators at inland waterways.

“An average of 37 Kiwis lose their lives to drowning every summer. We want to reduce the number of families that experience these preventable tragedies.

“Ultimately, the number one method of reducing harm is wearing a lifejacket. National MP Cameron Brewer has a Member’s Bill going through Parliament currently to require young children to wear one, and I encourage all Kiwis to do so while on a boat. It’s not rocket science, and it saves lives, so please keep water safety top of mind these holidays.” 

Source: New Zealand Police

Counties Manukau Police have arrested one person in a bizarre incident when carrying out patrols in an unmarked vehicle last night.

Inspector Kerry Watson said officers on duty noticed a station wagon following them equipped with a flashing bar of red and blue lights – a typical Police signal for the vehicle in front of them to pull over to the side of the road.

“Our officers were perplexed and quickly clocked the car was not Police-official.

It took a few moments for the impersonator to realise the vehicle they were signalling to pull over was Police, and they quickly tried to evade the area to avoid being caught.”

However, real officers caught up with them a short distance away, where they were arrested without incident.

A 38-year-old man will appear in the Manukau District Court on 24 December on charges of impersonating a Police officer and excess breath alcohol.

“The offender was impersonating Police, and to boot, was over twice the limit for breath alcohol. It’s bad enough that this person thought it was ok to impersonate a Police car. It’s even worse to see impaired and dangerous driving,” said Inspector Watson.

Impersonating Police or representing a vehicle as a Police vehicle is an offence under the Policing Act 2008. 

Remember, if you see suspicious or criminal activity, call 111 if its an emergency, and 105 if its after the fact.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Detective Sergeant Graeme Muir, Wellington Criminal Investigation Branch:

Police have arrested one person while investigating a recent stabbing at an Allen Street bar in Wellington.

A 34-year-old woman has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and will appear at the Wellington District Court on Monday 22 December.

What we know is around 1:30am on Saturday 13 December, Police were called to the Ace of Spades bar following reports a man had been stabbed.

The stabbing allegedly occurred during an altercation involving a small number of patrons. The victim was stabbed in the abdomen and sustained serious injuries.

Police would like to speak with anyone who witnessed or may have video footage of the incident.

Enquiries to date have established that other members of the public were present when the altercation occurred.

We encourage those people to contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online, and reference the Police file number 251213/4525.

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

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Team

Source: New Zealand Police

Police in Tairāwhiti are urging motorists to keep vehicle security top of mind, especially over the busy summer season.

“We’ve seen a rise in recent weeks in the number of thefts from vehicles, as well as reports of vehicles being stolen or interfered with,” says Acting Inspector Bryan Smith, Tairawhiti Area Prevention Manager.

“We want to remind people that some basic steps can help secure your vehicle and prevent it from being targeted by opportunistic criminals..

“Always lock your vehicle when you leave, it, and remove any valuables – especially anything visible.

“If you can, park off the street and in a garage if you have one. Otherwise, try to park in a well-lit area that has some foot traffic.

“Simple things like a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp can make your car unappealing to anyone looking for an easy target.

“Having a car alarm or immobiliser, while an investment, is also good protection.”

Anyone who notices suspicious activity happening around vehicles should call 111 immediately.

If you are the victim of a vehicle break-in or theft, you can also report it after the fact using Police’s 105 service.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Emergency services are at the scene of a single-vehicle crash on the Waikato Expressway (SH1), northbound, near Hampton Downs. 

While there have been no serious injuries, a fire has subsequently broken out in the vehicle. 

The northbound lanes will be closed while emergency services work at the scene. 

Motorists should avoid the area if possible. 

ENDS 

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are responding to a sudden death near Waiotapu Loop Road, Waiotapu.

Emergency services were alerted to an incident about 6.15am where one person had been pulled from the water unresponsive.

Enquiries are now underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the death, which is being treated as unexplained.

A scene examination will take place this morning. One person is currently assisting with enquiries.

Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre