Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

NZTA/Waka Kotahi is outlining plans for ongoing drainage and resurfacing work for State Highway Transmission Gully/Te Aranui o Te Rangihaeata this summer.

December works

Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says no further 24/7 weekend full road closures are planned for the highway this month.

“All southbound and northbound lanes will be open by Friday, 19 December. This will allow holiday traffic to travel unimpeded.”

January works

More work is planned for the motorway early in the new year after the holiday break.

Mr Owen says this will include night-time road closures for both northbound and southbound traffic, but no full weekend 24/7 closures like there were in November.

“We will have a wide range of work underway in January. The focus for northbound lanes will be drainage works and pavement reconstruction. Chipseal will also be laid on the motorway, starting with southbound lanes.”

“Traffic volumes are typically much lower in early January, so we’re doing our best to get this work done as soon as we can,” Mr Owen says.

This work will coincide with Metlink bus replacement services between Porirua and Waikanae. They will be using State Highway 59 from Monday, 5 January, to Sunday,12 January.

Mr Owen says resurfacing work is planned for January/early February, depending upon the weather.

“As we signalled previously, around 18 kilometres of chip-sealing needs to be completed this summer. It will waterproof the road surface before winter.”

“We expect to be doing this from 5 January until mid-February, weather permitting. The southbound lanes will take approximately three weeks, followed by northbound lanes,” Mr Owen says.

Chip-sealing and impact on drivers

This is a process where bitumen is sprayed onto the existing road surface, with chip laid on top and rolled into the road surface.

Road users must take extra care and follow temporary speed limits to ensure they do not damage the new road or their vehicles.

The speed limit in areas where the motorway is being resurfaced will be lowered to 30 km/h for several days, following the new surface application, to allow the chips to bed into the road surface.

Mr Owen says drivers must be ready for potential travel delays.

“During night-time directional closures, drivers will have to detour via SH59 and be prepared for lower speeds during the day. Drivers are also able to use SH59 day or night, and this route will be free of any planned roadworks.”

“However, traffic will be affected, and people must plan ahead for this,” Mr Owen says.

The work is weather-dependent, and schedules may change. If that occurs, updates will be provided. 

Works schedule

Friday 19 December to Sunday 4 January

• SH1 All southbound and northbound lanes will be open.
• SH59 open with no restrictions.

Monday 5 January, 9pm – 4.30am

• SH1 CLOSED northbound between Linden and Paekākāriki.
• Northbound traffic must detour via SH59.

Tuesday 6 January to Sunday 11 January. Sunday to Thursday. 9pm – 4:30am

• SH1 CLOSED northbound between Linden and SH58 interchange.
• SH1 CLOSED southbound between Paekākāriki and SH58 interchange.
• Traffic must detour via SH59 and/or SH58.
• There will be northbound lane closures during the day.
• Nightworks may happen on Fridays and Saturdays, depending on the weather. This will be confirmed closer to the time.

From Monday, 12 January until mid-February, weather permitting

There will be:

• more night-time road closures in the north and southbound directions, with details to be confirmed closer to the time
• 24/7 northbound lane closures when the road is open
• 24/7 temporary speed limit of 30 km/h when the road is open.

More information

• Road users can expect no planned roadworks and all lanes on Transmission Gully to be fully open from Friday, 19 December until Monday, 5 January.
• From Monday, 5 January onwards, work will restart, with night-time road closures planned. Traffic volumes are typically lower in January.
• There will be 24/7 lane closures in the northbound and southbound directions at multiple sites when the road is open. Drivers should consider using State Highway 59 as an alternative route.
• Northbound and southbound lanes will be resurfaced with chipseal. Road users must follow all temporary speed limits. This allows the chip to bed into the road surface and helps prevent stone chip damage to vehicles.
• Travel delays can be expected during peak traffic periods. People should allow for extra travel time, particularly on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.
• Regular updates will be provided on planned work schedules
• Road users are encouraged to keep up to date on the highway’s status and check road conditions before they travel. Updates can be found on the NZTA/Waka Kotahi website and our social media channels:
• SH1 Transmission Gully summer maintenance
• Frequently asked questions(external link)
• Roadworks 101 – keeping everyone safe around roadworks (video)(external link)

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute the following to Hawke’s Bay Area Commander Inspector Lincoln Sycamore:

Police will have a visible presence in and around Napier on Saturday 13 December, due to the unveiling of a headstone.

Inspector Lincoln Sycamore says that Police will be applying a firm line to breaches of the Gangs Act.

“We also won’t tolerate poor driving behaviour, disorder or any breaches of the peace.

“At the heart of this gathering is a grieving family. Our goal is to reassure people, maintain a visible presence, keep the peace and ensure the safety of everyone,” says Inspector Sycamore. 

It is expected that a large number of people may pay their respects and attend the event, some of whom will be gang members, and will have travelled from outside of the Hawke’s Bay area.

The unveiling is due to take place at 1pm at the Wharerangi Lawn Cemetery off Cato Road, Poraiti, Napier. A hākari is to follow at a Napier marae later that afternoon.

We urge anyone who witnesses illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately. If you are reporting matters after the fact, please make a report online or call 105.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

Source: New Zealand Government

Space Minister Judith Collins today launched a $1.8 million pilot programme through which Kiwi space companies can develop their technologies, that could ultimately form part of a future national space mission.

“The Kiwi Space Activator will help more Kiwi businesses and universities move novel space technology and concepts from the laboratory to the skies, further boosting New Zealand’s reputation as a hub for space innovation,” Ms Collins says. 

“Capability developed through these innovative projects could feed into a future national space mission, with potential applications for resource management or monitoring illegal fishing, among other areas. 

“We want to turn big ideas into big impact, and this is the first step in our journey.”   

The New Zealand Space Agency will administer the pilot programme which will have two rounds of funding. Up to $600,000 will be offered for each successful project, with a total of $1.8 million available over two years. The pilot will support a minimum of three projects.

“Round one projects need to be ‘ready to fly’ – meaning they have technology that can be tested on a rocket, satellite, or high-altitude platform within 18-24 months,” Ms Collins says.

“The Kiwi Space Activator is designed to support projects that align with challenges identified by government agencies, such as maritime security, space situational awareness, biosecurity, and ecosystem health.

“Projects can also meet a New Zealand Space Agency challenge for delivering core components of a satellite in an innovative way – for example power supply or communications systems. 

“This pilot programme will help shape future government support for the space sector and ensure New Zealand remains at the forefront of global space innovation.”

The Kiwi Space Activator is open to New Zealand-based organisations only. Round one applicants must contribute at least 30 percent of project cash costs, while in-kind and cash co-funding will be accepted for round two.

Applications are open and close on 1 March 2026. For more information on eligibility and how to apply see the New Zealand Space Agency website.  

Source: New Zealand Police

Two people are facing serious charges following an incident in Wesley last night.

The victim had arranged via Facebook marketplace to purchase a vehicle and meet the seller outside an address on Holdsworth Avenue.

Upon arrival, the victim was allegedly assaulted by two men who also demanded he hand over money.

Detective Senior Sergeant Rebecca Kirk, of Auckland City Crime Squad, says the victim was then made to get into the alleged offender’s vehicle and withdraw more money from an ATM in Stoddard Road.

“The victim was then taken to another ATM before the offenders left in a vehicle.

“The victim has contacted Police immediately and at about 11.40pm officers located the vehicle abandoned on Emily Place.”

Detective Senior Sergeant Kirk says enquiries showed the occupants of the vehicle had checked into a nearby hotel.

“The alleged offenders have then exited the room.

“Officers have deployed a taser and both occupants were taken into custody without further issue.

“This Police activity should send a clear message to those involved in this unlawful behaviour that it will not be tolerated by Police or the community.

“This is really seriously offending and Police are focused on ensuring the victim gets the support they need following this traumatic incident.”

A 32-year-old man and a 35-year-old woman will appear in Auckland District Court today both charged with assault with intent to injure, kidnapping and theft.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Government

The completion of Kaikōura’s waterfront redevelopment marks a major milestone for the revitalisation of the region, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.

“Wakatu Quay redevelopment is a critical infrastructure asset, it supports Kaikoura economic development following the 2016 Kaikoura earthquake which saw the region’s culture, social, natural and economic life significantly impacted,” Mr Jones says.

The Wakatu Quay redevelopment in the town on the South Island’s east coast, was officially opened today,

“This redevelopment strengthens Kaikōura’s appeal as a destination and helps support the local economy, following the damage and disruption caused by the earthquake.”

Tourism is central to Kaikōura’s economy, with around half of the district’s workforce depending directly on tourism, while another third supports the visitor industry.

The development features a new building that can host tourism, hospitality and cultural events. Its modern, marine-inspired design incorporates cultural and environmental elements.

The building is expected to be a catalyst for private sector development in the Wakatu Quay precinct, which has also been upgraded and landscaped as part of the project.

The project received more than $10 million in funding from the former Provincial Growth Fund, with $1.07m of co-funding from Kaikoura District Council. 

The redevelopment was opened with a dawn blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremony this morning.

“The partnership between central government, Kaikōura District Council, iwi and other local stakeholders have been critical to this project’s success,” Mr Jones says.

The council engaged a local construction company for the project. More than 40 people were involved in the redevelopment, with more than half being local workers. The construction was completed within a year.

“It’s fantastic that the precinct is open for summer with its stunning views of the sea and mountains. This redevelopment is uplifting the district and is an important milestone for future development.”

Source: New Zealand Government

Legislation to bring about a fairer and faster system for securing land for public infrastructure projects has passed its first reading in Parliament today.

“The Public Works Act had not changed in half a century. A targeted review last year confirmed it lacks clarity and commonsense in several areas, which has resulted in complex regulations and inefficient processes for land acquisition,” Land Information Minister Chris Penk says.

“It can take years to secure the land needed for development. This is slowing down the delivery of the new schools, hospitals, roads, water, and power facilities that improve New Zealanders’ lives and support a productive economy.

“The Public Works Amendment Bill will accelerate infrastructure delivery while protecting landowners’ rights, raise compensation, improve disputes processes and make it easier for landowners and agencies to navigate the system.”

Reforms to the Public Works Act are significant. Key changes include:

• Incentive payments worth 10 percent of the land value, up to $100,000, for landowners who agree to sell before a Notice of Intention is issued.
• Updated home-loss and land-loss payments to recognise the disruption caused by acquisition, on top of land value and incentive payments:
  • the home-loss base payment will increase from $35,000 to $50,000
  • land-loss payments will increase from $250-$25,000 to $350-$35,000
  • home-loss payments will extend to multiple homes on a property.
• Simpler acquisition processes including allowing government agencies and local authorities to work together to acquire land for connected public projects and enabling Transpower to bypass standard processes to acquire land directly.
• Clarifying factors the Environment Court can consider when reviewing objections to land acquisitions, with a renewed focus on individual property rights and reduced overlap with the Resource Management Act.
• Emergency provisions to support disaster recovery by allowing land acquisition after a state of emergency to support infrastructure restoration and community recovery.
• Stronger safeguards for Māori land and fairer compensation by correcting a legal discrepancy that undervalues Māori freehold land.

“Specific provisions to speed up the delivery of critical infrastructure projects passed in August. The additional amendments that passed first reading today will make sure the wider system is also fit-for-purpose into the future,” Mr Penk says.

“The Government is working hard to fix the basics and build a better future for New Zealand, and this modernised Public Works Act will play an important part in unleashing an infrastructure boom that creates jobs and grows the economy. 

“I look forward to hearing the public feedback on this Bill, as it now heads to the Transport and Infrastructure Select Committee for consideration.”

Further detail on these proposed changes to the Public Works Act can be found in previous press releases on the Beehive website:

 

Source: New Zealand Government

A Fast-track approval for an Auckland quarry is great news for the city’s construction sector, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Resources Minister Shane Jones say.

Stevenson Aggregates Ltd’s Drury quarry has received approval to expand after lodging its application in April.

“This approval took just 85 working days following the commencement of the expert panel. Without Fast-track, gaining consent for a project like this would take between two and four years” Mr Bishop says.

“The Sutton block is estimated to produce up to 240 million tonnes of aggregate over 50 years.

“Aggregate is essential for Auckland’s growth, supporting housing, construction, and infrastructure. The Sutton Block extension will help meet the city’s demand for aggregate.

“Fast-track is streamlining quarrying approvals so applicants don’t have to navigate multiple, costly layers of consents, over a far longer timeframe, as they have done using existing RMA processes.”    

Mr Jones says aggregate was included on New Zealand’s Critical Minerals List because of its economic importance to New Zealand.

“The Government has a significant public infrastructure pipeline in the Auckland region which requires a stable and affordable supply of aggregate.

“It is important quarries are near demand centres. A common industry estimate is that the cost of aggregate doubles after the first 30km it is transported.”

The project was listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 and was approved by an independent expert panel today. 

Notes to editor: 

For more information about the project: Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block

Fast-track project approved by expert panels:

 

Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]
Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2 [Housing]
Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block [Quarry]
Maitahi Village [Housing]
Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing]
Rangitoopuni [Housing]
Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable energy]

Expert panels have been appointed for: 

Arataki project
Ashbourne
Ayrburn Screen Hub
Green Steel
Haldon Solar Farm
Homestead Bay
Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme
Kings Quarry Expansion – Stage 2
Pound Road Industrial Development
Ryans Road Industrial Development
Southland Wind Farm Project
Stella Passage Development
Sunfield Masterplanned Community
Takitimu North Link – Stage 2
Taranaki VTM Project
The Point Solar Farm
Waihi North
Waitaha Hydro
Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project

24 projects have now been referred into the Fast-track process by the Minister for Infrastructure. 

 

Source: New Zealand Government

Transport Minister Chris Bishop has welcomed news from the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) that funding has been approved for strengthening work on the State Highway 50 (SH50) Ngaruroro River Bridge, south of Fernhill, Hawke’s Bay.

“The SH50 Ngaruroro River bridge is an important part of the transport network in Hawke’s Bay and the current speed and weight restrictions have been hugely frustrating. I know freight operators will be relieved that with funding now approved, strengthening work can finally get underway,” Mr Bishop says.

“Temporary restrictions on the Ngaruroro River bridge have been in place since October 2022 after an assessment identified that, while the bridge was structurally safe to use, it did not have the capacity to sustain heavy traffic demands. 

“Total project costs are expected to be around $10–$20 million. Design and consenting is now complete and NZTA will be engaging with stakeholders in the coming months. The contractor will be confirmed shortly and construction is expected to start in 2026 and take approximately 11 months to complete. Temporary traffic management will continue to be in place throughout construction.

“Once the strengthening work is completed, current restrictions on the bridge will be removed, and the bridge will become suitable for High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) and 50MAX configurations. This is a considerable upgrade, as the bridge has never been suitable for these types of vehicles, even before the 2022 restrictions were put in place.

“This is another example of the Government listening to what our regions need to support economic growth, jobs, and improve the reliability of transport networks across our local communities.” 

“I’ve heard from the freight sector just how important this corridor is, and what a difference the strengthening work will make to productivity and resilience. I’ve been a strong advocate for this vital work and look forward to our network operating at full capacity again”, Napier MP Katie Nimon says. 

“I want to thank local communities across Hawkes Bay, alongside MPs Katie Nimon and Catherine Wedd, for their patience and advocacy for this important project. I know we are all looking forward to this strengthening work getting underway as soon as possible”, Mr Bishop says. 

“NZTA will confirm more details over the coming months. In the meantime, the current 30km/h speed limit and weight restrictions will remain in place, to protect the bridge and ensure it can continue to be used safely. I look forward to this strengthening work getting underway as soon as possible.”