Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Government

A new levy regime that comes into effect today makes the goods management system fairer by better reflecting the risks and costs associated with clearing goods at the border, Customs Minister Casey Costello and Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard said today. 

“The changes are about more fairly recovering costs and also address a significant increase in the volume of low-value goods (worth less than $1,000) crossing our border,” Ms Costello says. 

Low-value goods imports – people buying online from the likes of Amazon and Temu – more than tripled from 2017/18 to 2023/24, from 7.8 million packages to 24 million packages annually. 

“Businesses pay customs levies on the goods they import, but people shopping online in this way often didn’t,” Ms Costello says. “That growth meant substantially more processing work at the border and taxpayers were funding almost all the costs involved. That changes from today.”

“Customs and the Ministry for Primary Industries make a critical contribution to New Zealand’s economic prosperity and growth, by ensuring trade can flow as safely and efficiently as possible,” Mr Hoggard says.

“Between them, they protect against biosecurity risks, which could devastate our primary sector, and illegal drugs and other criminal activity that harms our communities costing our economy hundreds of millions of dollars every year, while also preventing illegal export activity and ensuring our exports are able to enter overseas markets with minimal delay or disruption.

“The new goods management fees properly reflect the costs of this work and sit within a long-standing government cost recovery framework where costs are recovered from those who use border services or create the need for them.”

“Customs calculates that over four years from 2025/26 to 2028/29, the new goods levy regime will shift NZ$71 million in costs from taxpayers to importers and exporters who create the need for border management services,” Ms Costello says.

The changes taking effect from today are:

• Different rates for sea and air consignments for both high value goods – (over NZ$1000) and low value goods (less than NZ$1000 – Customs only).
• Consignment-based charging for low value goods, replacing charges per cargo report.
• Charging low-value goods transported by international mail.
• Ending taxpayer subsidies for low-value goods and commercial vessels, with full cost recovery for Customs and MPI services.
• The introduction of a commercial vessel charge.
• The introduction of charging international transshipments and empty shipping containers. (Customs only) 

The changes were approved by Cabinet last year following extensive industry and public consultation. Customs and MPI have been working with industry stakeholders to ensure that the changes are implemented smoothly.

Source: Eastern Institute of Technology

23 seconds ago

The Eastern Institute of Technology (EIT) has welcomed Cabinet’s approval of $10 million from the Government’s contingency fund to support the rebuild and improvement of its Hawke’s Bay Campus in Taradale following Cyclone Gabrielle.

Cabinet’s decision, announced yesterday, follows the devastation caused by Cyclone Gabrielle in February 2023, which resulted in catastrophic flooding across the campus.

About 90 per cent of ground-floor buildings were inundated with floodwater and contaminated silt, damaging more than 500 teaching and support spaces and forcing widespread disruption to learning and operations.

Many buildings were unusable for months, with teaching delivered across temporary sites throughout Napier and Hastings while repairs progressed.

EIT has since worked to restore campus functionality, using limited insurance proceeds to carry out essential remediation and keep programmes running. While significant progress has been made, insurance funding has not been sufficient to fully meet long-term rebuild needs.

EIT Council Chair David Pearson said the Government’s decision was a turning point.

“This funding is a genuine game-changer for EIT. We have rebuilt as much as we could with the resources available, but there have been clear gaps that insurance simply will not be able to cover.

“This investment gives us certainty as we complete the next stage of our rebuild and plan for the future. I am delighted and deeply appreciative of the Government’s support.”

EIT acknowledged the support of Minister for Tertiary Education and Skills Hon Penny Simmonds, along with local MPs, regional leaders, iwi partners and the wider community, who supported the institute through its recovery and return to independence following the disestablishment of Te Pūkenga.

Chief Executive Lucy Laitinen said the funding comes at a pivotal time as EIT moves forward as an independent institution.

“EIT is well and truly back in business. Our student enrolments are strong, our staff are energised by our independence, and we are reconnecting with local industry and our wider communities to ensure we are meeting their needs. This funding will help fill critical gaps in our rebuild and ensure our Taradale campus can continue to serve Hawke’s Bay for generations to come.”

She said the recovery reflects the commitment and resilience of staff, students and supporters across the region.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support we have received through thick and thin from government, our local MPs, regional and civic leaders, iwi, industry partners and the community. We never stopped delivering for our learners, and this investment allows us to focus on rebuilding a campus that is resilient, fit for purpose, and aligned with Hawke’s Bay’s future skills needs.”

The funding will enable EIT to accelerate rebuilding work, improve campus infrastructure, and strengthen its long-term sustainability as Hawke’s Bay’s regional institute of technology.

Source: New Zealand Police

An eastbound lane of the Upper Harbour Highway near Greenhithe is blocked following a crash this morning.

Police were notified at around 6.10am of a two-vehicle crash near the Tauhinu Road off-ramp.

There are no reports of injury.

Motorists are advised to expect delays.

ENDS

Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Phill Hamlin:

The search for missing 21-year-old French national Antoine Richard is continuing, after he was reported missing in Cromwell last weekend.

Antoine was last seen around 11:45pm on Saturday 21 March at the Victoria Arms Hotel.

Further appeal for sightings or information

Police are appealing to residents in Cromwell to check their properties if they have not done so already, as well as review any CCTV footage from Saturday 21 March 11.45pm onwards.

If you have relevant footage, register your camera system with Community Cam to help with our search for Antoine.

We’re also wanting to hear from anybody who may have seen anyone matching Antoine’s description either hitchhiking or walking in Cromwell in the early hours of Sunday 22 March.

Large number of search teams assisting

Searches have been conducted by a large and dedicated team of LandSAR members from throughout the Otago and Southland area, Police, Coastguard and many members of the community.

We remain dedicated and focused on locating Antoine.

The Police National Dive Squad will also assist efforts by searching areas of Lake Dunstan.

Search teams located a grey rubber Croc branded sandal from the shore of Lake Dunstan and would like to speak to anyone who may have seen somebody wearing the pictured footwear, or if anyone locates a sandal like the one pictured.

Police would like to thank the Cromwell community for their unwavering support and assistance.

Anyone who has seen Antoine, or has information regarding his whereabouts, is urged to contact Police via 105, either over the phone or online at police.govt.nz/use-105 and selecting “Update Report”.

Please reference file number 260324/5771.

Statement on behalf of Antoine’s family

We are the family of Antoine Richard, who has been missing since Saturday, March 21st. That day, after playing a rugby match with the Cromwell rugby team, he went to the Victoria Arms Hotel at 11:30 PM, the last identified location before his disappearance.

The venue’s cameras show him leaving around midnight. He was wearing a black T-shirt, light denim shorts, and Crocs.

We have had no news from him since.

An enormous amount of work has already been carried out by the Police, the Search and Rescue team, Carrick winery where he worked, his friends, the Cromwell Rugby Team, local residents, and everyone who has taken part in the search. We are infinitely grateful to them.

You may have already been involved in the search efforts, but we still need your help:

• If you find a Croc shoe matching the photo attached, please contact the Police.
• If you or someone you know owns a property in Cromwell, please check your surroundings, gardens, and outbuildings.
• If you have a security camera, please review the footage from after 11:30pm on March 22nd 2026.
• If you or someone you know saw or gave a lift to anyone matching Antoine’s description in the early  hours of March 22nd, please contact the police.

We have been devastated with worry since we heard the news. We are writing on behalf of his entire family, his friends, his colleagues in France and New Zealand, and all the people he loves, in the hope of finding him as soon as possible.

Thank you so very much in advance.

Hervé, Marithé, Claudine, Elise, Noémie, Valentin and Corentin.

Note to media: the family will not be providing any further comment and ask that their privacy be respected.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: Auckland Council

Sir Barry Curtis, the former Mayor of Manukau who devoted nearly 40 years of his life to serving the people of Manukau and Auckland has passed away.

Sir Barry was a dedicated public servant, known for his remarkable 24-year tenure as the third Mayor of Manukau, a role he held from 1983 until his retirement in 2007 and for his long and distinguished career of public service.

“I knew Sir Barry well,” says Mayor Wayne Brown. “He was a hugely influential figure in local politics and a pioneer as Mayor of Manukau City Council for 24 years.  He was the country’s longest serving mayor at the time. 

“Sir Barry oversaw the foundation of what became Manukau city and his legacy is visible with the growth that followed in Manukau, community facilities and parks.  

“He was known for his booming trademark voice and was a genuine champion of the communities he served over a 40-year career in local government.  He leaves an enormous legacy,” says Mayor Brown.

Councillor Alf Filipaina, who served alongside Sir Barry for two terms on the Manukau City Council, gave a heartfelt tribute to his dear friend and colleague. 

“My history with Sir Barry goes back many years to when I first served as a police officer in 1978. I came to know him even more closely when I was elected to the Manukau City Council in 2003. 

“One of the first jobs he gave me in 2004 was the chair of the Transport Committee. That man meant so much to me, he brought Manukau City Council and our community together. 

“He was a leader with mana and someone you trusted because he had the respect of the whole community, not only in Manukau and Tāmaki Makaurau but also across Aotearoa. 

“Sir Barry championed an approach dubbed the “Manukau Way,” which balanced economic progress with community welfare and fostered inclusive partnerships, particularly with iwi through early engagement on issues like the Manukau Harbour claim and Treaty of Waitangi responsibilities. 

“From my perspective, part of his legacy will be about uniting diverse communities and ensuring that Manukau plays a significant contribution to Auckland’s economic, social, and cultural advancement,” says Cr Filipaina. 

Auckland Council Chief Executive Phil Wilson says Sir Barry leaves a legacy of leadership, community service and unwavering commitment to the people of South Auckland.

“His leadership fostered a sense of belonging and pride across generations, with a particular focus on creating pathways and opportunities for young people to thrive.

“I will particularly remember him for his very astute political leadership; his acerbic wit; and his very deep commitment to Manukau and its diverse communities,” says Phil. 

The creation of Barry Curtis Park in Flat Bush, Auckland’s largest urban park (94ha) in 100 years, stands as a testament to his impact on the community.

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Cam MacKinnon – Area Response Manager Whakatane

Police have acted swiftly to locate the males responsible for allegedly mistreating puppies at the Whakatane River last night.

Just before 6pm on Monday 30 March, members of the public contacted Police after watching a video of two males allegedly throwing very young puppies in the Whakatane River using a social media platform to showcase their offending.

We received information from the public who saw the males take the puppies out of what looked to be a pillowcase and throw them into the Whakatane River, while filming their senseless activity.

Tragically, the puppies drowned in the river.

This type of wilful ill-treatment towards animals is unacceptable in any form and is an offence under the Animal Welfare Act 1999.

As with this incident or any similar behaviour, we will robustly work to hold these offenders to account for their actions and this includes restrictions on bail during court proceedings.

Both offenders have now been located. A 19-year-old man has been charged with Cruelty to an Animal, and a 17-year-old male has been referred to Youth Aid.

Police would like to acknowledge the members of the public who contacted and assisted Police with this incident.

If anyone else has information in relation to this offending, it can be provided online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking ‘Update Report’. Please quote Police event number P065921794.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

State Highway 58, Judgeford is currently closed following a crash.

The two-vehicle crash near Bradey Road was reported to Police at 4:20pm.

One person has been seriously injured.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect significant delays.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Ian Foster:

Police acknowledge the sentencing handed down today in the High Court at Hamilton to Joshua Hargreaves, for the murder of his brother Jack Hargreaves in July last year.

One of the firearms used in the murder belonged to their flatmate, who was sentenced on three charges of unlawful possession of a firearm in January 2026.

These sentencings bring with them a reminder to the community about the importance of firearms safety.

We all want our families and communities to be safe from firearms harm.

Police are committed to ensuring firearms do not get into the wrong hands.

You must have a current New Zealand firearms licence and any required endorsement and permit to legally possess most arms items or ammunition.

Police recognise that there may be occasions where a person inherits or receives an unwanted firearm and they don’t have a firearms licence or the correct licence endorsement.

The community will be much safer if that firearm is handed in straight away, so that criminals or vulnerable people, including children or those who are unwell, cannot have access to it.

Reach out for advice, either by calling 105, or by checking guidance on the website of the Firearms Safety Authority: https://www.firearmssafetyauthority.govt.nz/manage-and-apply/disposal-il…

When somebody proactively comes forward to Police wanting to hand in an illegally held firearm, firearms part or ammunition, they should not fear prosecution, in most cases.

Police have the discretion not to prosecute, where a firearm is proactively handed in by someone who is not lawfully able to possess it.

Each situation will be considered on its own facts and discretion exercised accordingly. Where a prosecution is not in the public interest, Police will arrange disposal of the item.

We are keen to work with the public to ensure only people with firearms licences possess firearms, as part of our approach to delivering safer communities.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

Source: Green Party

The Green Party is warning that the Government’s complete rewrite of the Fisheries Act will privatise one of our largest public assets and push fish stocks closer to wipe out.

“The Fisheries Amendment Bill signs away insane industry power over our oceans and fisheries at the expense of regular New Zealanders and the environment that sustains us,” says Green Party Co-leader Chlöe Swarbrick. 

“New Zealanders pushed back hard last week, and the Minister was forced to abandon the removal of minimum fish size requirements for commercial operators, but the Government needs to gut the whole damn Bill. 

“We cannot let Christopher Luxon and the National Party scapegoat New Zealand First for this latest attack on our environment. This Bill doesn’t need to progress. All coalition parties have decided that it will. 

“National, ACT and NZ First are choosing to screw over our oceans and recreational fishers to help the industry make a quick, unsustainable buck. 

“It doesn’t have to be this way. The Greens stand with regular people over profit and plunder. 

“That means going much further than just killing this Bill. It means phasing out bottom trawling, increasing full marine protection from less than 1% of our oceans to 30%, and protecting our fisheries for future generations,” says Swarbrick.

Source: Green Party

The Green Party has condemned the funding cut which has lead to the loss of the National Māori Radio news service. The news service will air for the last time tonight. 

“After years of harsh cuts to Māori broadcasting under Luxon’s Government, the Green Party is calling on Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka to stand up for Māori news broadcasting,” says Green Party Co-leader, Marama Davidson. 

“Over the past four decades, iwi radio has played a fundamental role in broadcasting critical news, diverse voices, and community stories to whānau across the motu. 

“The National Māori Radio service has always been about so much more than just news. It has included the daily presence of te reo Māori and Māori news, positively affirming identity and how Māori see themselves.

“These cuts breach the Crown’s treaty obligations to actively protect te reo Māori and Māori news broadcasts. 

“Māori are renowned storytellers. Iwi radio has allowed Māori stories to be told by Māori, for Māori and all communities, throughout four decades of uninterrupted programming. 

“Where has Minster Potaka been throughout this process? A process that has been incredibly arduous and destabilising for our whānau in iwi radio, and the Māori broadcasting sector as a whole? 

“The Green Party will ensure enduring funding for Māori news services which tell our enduring Māori stories. We support iwi radio to ensure their voices continue to be heard and celebrated. 

“This silence will be loud. We will continue to stand with Māori storytellers, and stand for Māori stories,” says Marama.