Source: New Zealand Police
Mossburn Five Rivers Road, near Diack Road, is currently closed following a bus crash earlier this afternoon.
The bus was carrying 17 passengers, including the driver, when it crashed about 3.45pm. Some passengers have sustained minor to moderate injuries.
The road will remain closed while recovery crews work to move the bus.
Motorists are advised to take alternate routes, such as the Resolution Drive on-ramp, and expect delays.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died after sustaining serious injuries in Tokoroa on 27 May.
He was 30-year-old Rapana (Raaps) Tukuru Tahana-Heretini, of Tokoroa.
Police are still seeking any information from witnesses, including CCTV footage from Abercorn Place at around 4:15am on Tuesday 27 May.
If you can help, please get in touch with us via our 105 service, quoting reference number 250527/7868.
You can also provide information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: Environment Canterbury Regional Council
Latest update from us and Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand.
After the investigation into the impact of the spill on shellfish, gathering in Saltwater Creek and the Ashley/Rakahuri estuary can now resume.
All warning signs will be removed.
Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, Dr Matthew Reid, said the risk of eating shellfish related to the spill has now returned to what it was before the incident.
Water quality in Saltwater Creek Estuary has a history of being poor or variable.
Please note that swimming is not recommended in the estuary due to the long-term elevated risk to public health from contact with the water.
Our zone delivery lead for Waimakariri, Nerida Theinhardt, acknowledges the frustration felt by many in the community to get to this point.
However, public health has had to remain the priority and we thank people for their patience over the past few weeks.
The wider investigation into the incident is continuing, and as previously mentioned, we can’t go into specific details or comment on the likely outcome.
Please share this message with anyone who may be visiting the area.
Source: New Zealand Police
Queenstown Police would like to speak to the victim of a seemingly unprovoked assault in late May.
The assault happened about 2.40am on Sunday 25 May 2025, at a taxi rank near Searle Lane and Camp Street.
At the time, the victim was looking down at his phone and walking in the direction of the Cookie Time shop when he was punched by one of three men who had left a bar in Searle Lane.
After the incident, a member of the public briefly spoke to the victim, handing back his beanie, which fell off during the assault.
Detective Lisa Watt says Police discovered the incident while investigating an assault moments before, in a Searle Lane bar.
“The alleged offender for the first incident has been arrested, but we would like to speak with the victim of the assault that happened on the footpath near the Cookie Time shop, the passerby, or any other witnesses.
“The victim is described to have a black beard, and was wearing a black puffer jacket, blue jeans, white shoes, and black beanie. If that was you, please contact us so we can understand what happened and hold the person responsible to account.”
If you have information that may assist, please contact Police online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report”, or call 105.
Please use the reference number: 250527/7943
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash on State Highway One, Timaru on 21 May.
He was James Campbell McKenzie, 69, from Timaru.
Police extend our condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
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Issued by Police Media Centre
Source: New Zealand Government
The Government will make more beds and timely services available to people needing mental health and addiction support in the Midland Region, Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey says.
Budget 2025 has reprioritised almost $51 million over four years to help those with acute mental health and addiction needs to access appropriate specialist forensic services in a timely manner. The investment will also support additional step-down beds.
“Providing better mental health and addiction services to people in prison, in forensic beds or on remand can help with rehabilitation and reintegration into the community,” Mr Doocey says.
“We know that people in the Corrections system have higher mental health and addiction needs than the general population. Currently, there are not enough beds to adequately care for those who need them.
“This investment will improve forensic and prison mental health services throughout the Midland Region and enable greater participation in rehabilitation programmes. It will help in particular at the country’s biggest prison, Waikeria, and has the potential to relieve pressure across the wider forensic mental health system.”
The funding will support 10 new acute inpatient beds and 8 new step-down beds delivered by Non-Government Organisations in the Midland Region. These new beds will be supported by new community wraparound support teams and funding to attract and retain specialist staff.
“Ensuring timely access to care has been one of my top priorities. The shortage of forensic beds has caused delays in access to effective care, creating issues throughout the forensic rehabilitation system,” Mr Doocey says.
“This funding will improve the flow of patients from forensic beds to stepdown beds and should have a positive knock-on effect for other services around the country.”
Source: New Zealand Parliament
WEDNESDAY, 4 JUNE 2025
The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.
KARAKIA/PRAYERS
BARBARA KURIGER (Deputy Speaker): Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations, that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom, justice, mercy, and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.
Source: New Zealand Parliament
WEDNESDAY, 4 JUNE 2025
The Speaker took the Chair at 2 p.m.
KARAKIA/PRAYERS
BARBARA KURIGER (Deputy Speaker): Almighty God, we give thanks for the blessings which have been bestowed on us. Laying aside all personal interests, we acknowledge the King and pray for guidance in our deliberations, that we may conduct the affairs of this House with wisdom, justice, mercy, and humility for the welfare and peace of New Zealand. Amen.
Source: Auckland Council
Aucklanders are urged to be prepared for heavy rain and strong winds later today and this evening, which are forecast to hit during the commute home this afternoon.
MetService has issued a heavy rain warning for Auckland and Aotea Great Barrier Island effective 3pm today until midnight (Wednesday 4 June).
A strong wind watch is also in place for Auckland, including Aotea Great Barrier Island for the same period.
Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management encourages Aucklanders to plan ahead, stay safe, and keep in touch with whānau and friends.
“Parts of Auckland could be hit by heavy localised downpours with possible thunderstorms later today and this evening,” says Adam.
“With this weather on the way, now is the time to make sure you and your property are prepared.
“We are asking Aucklanders to be mindful that the heavy rain may hit during the afternoon commute home. Plan your journey and avoid low-lying areas, drive cautiously and never drive in floodwaters,” says Adam.
“MetService advises periods of heavy rain with localised downpours are likely this evening and tonight.
“Download the MetService app and keep an eye on MetService.com for the latest weather updates.
“And lastly, if you or your property are in danger phone 111 – don’t wait, natural warnings like rising floodwaters need to be acted on immediately.
“Visit our website or alternative at the Get Ready website for plenty of good advice on getting your household prepared for an emergency.
“Stay safe Tāmaki Makaurau,” says Adam.
Source: New Zealand Police
Police can now release the name of the man who died following a crash in Okoia on Monday 26 May.
He was 76-year-old David Hauparoa Hiroti, of Okoia.
Our thoughts are with those close to him at this difficult time.
Enquiries into the circumstances of the crash are ongoing.
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Issued by Police Media Centre