Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Worksafe New Zealand

13 June 2025

At WorkSafe New Zealand, our inspectors manage a diverse range of tasks, ensuring that no two days are ever the same.

Their responsibilities include visiting businesses, helping both businesses and workers understand their obligations, writing notes and reports, conducting assessments, and investigating incidents.

We’ve been around the country to speak with our inspectors about their work, what a typical day looks like, and what they enjoy most about their roles. They all had one thing in common: they all appreciate the variety that comes with being an inspector.

When asked to describe a usual day, our inspectors talked about the dynamic nature of their work, ranging from office tasks to on-site visits, and from report writing to meetings with businesses and workers. This variety keeps their job interesting and engaging.

Our inspectors interact with a wide range of businesses across various industries, constantly expanding their knowledge and meeting new people. They are excellent communicators who enjoy finding innovative ways to connect with workers. They also excel in collaboration, often working together to consider different perspectives and develop unique solutions.

Here are some insights from our inspectors about their work:

What’s a typical day on the job like?

“Every day is different. Sometimes I’m in the office, working with the team and sometimes I’m at home focusing on my reports and notes. Sometimes I’ll be out and about visiting a variety of different businesses.” Kim, Wellington.

“You’re out and about doing proactive assessments, then you could be back in the office doing paperwork. It’s always different.” Pete, Auckland.

Is there anything you wish you knew before becoming an inspector?

“One thing I didn’t realise is how often I’d be communicating with non-English speakers. Learning to adapt and communicate with different people is definitely a challenge. It’s important to be empathetic and understanding, it’s our job to make it work and make sure our message is getting across.” Charlotte, Auckland.

“That anyone can be an inspector at any age. We work with an incredibly diverse range of people and every inspector has unique experience that makes them a good inspector.” Kim, Wellington.

“The amount of paperwork that’s involved. A huge part of the job is writing up notes, applying the correct regulations, and communicating outcomes. Our notes can sometimes be used in court, so it’s really important we take the time and get it right.” Kris, Auckland.

What’s the best thing about being an inspector?

“The opportunity to engage with the community and the opportunity to educate them on things they might not know.” Carl, Palmerston North.

“Being able to go outdoors and not being stuck at your desk all day. You could be climbing under tractors or up hills on forestry sites and farms. It can be physically challenging but it’s always good fun to get out and about” Pete, Auckland.

“Definitely the flexibility and job variety. Every day you get to learn new things.” Charlotte, Auckland.

What’s the best part of your day?

“Being able to close a file. It means you’ve been working with a business to improve their systems, and you’ve managed to reach a good result. It’s the most rewarding part.” Kris, Auckland.

“Catching up with the rest of the team to hear the anecdotes from the day. As an inspector you may be exposed to traumatic events, files, photos and statements, or may engage with people who are impacted by having a worker, colleague or family member injured, or even killed. It’s really important you can rely on your team when the job gets challenging. Being able to chat and blow off steam with other people in my team who understand is a key part of my day.” Kim, Wellington.

“After a challenging assessment, getting together with your colleagues and collating your ideas. I love having those discussions and debating what you could’ve done differently or better for next time. We’re always improving. The coffees, chit chats, and learnings with your colleagues are invaluable.” Charlotte, Auckland.

Want to become a WorkSafe inspector?

Our inspectors enjoy a varied, flexible, challenging, and rewarding job where they form relationships, engage with new people, and work together to make work safer in Aotearoa New Zealand.

If this sounds like something you’d also enjoy, apply to be an inspector. Applications close at midnight on 22 June 2025. If you can’t make this cohort, we’ll also be hiring in October 2025. Sign-up for alerts on our Careers page(external link) if you’re interested.

Source: Massey University

COVID-19 Response Minister Chris Hipkins’ slip of the tongue has taken out New Zealand’s Quote of the Year competition, beating a toddler’s response to seeing a goat by a mere 0.5 per cent of votes.

The quotes were neck to neck throughout the polling, which had a record 8,296 votes cast.

Hipkins’ slip of the tongue occurred during a press conference in August when he accidentally referred to New Zealanders going outside to “spread their legs”. The unusual health advice brought raised eyebrows from Dr Ashley Bloomfield who was standing next to him. The gaffe attracted 38.9 per cent of the votes.

The runner-up, with 38.4% of the votes, was “No, it’s a f…ing goat!” The quote is from footage of a Christchurch mother and her two-year-old daughter seeing a goat in their garden. Mimicking her mother’s surprise, the toddler exclaims: “There’s a f…ing goat outside!” Her mother responds: “It’s just a goat,” but the toddler corrects her: “No, it’s a f…ing goat!”

Winners from day one

Massey speech writing specialist and competition organiser Dr Heather Kavan said Hipkins’ and the toddler’s quotes were streaks ahead in the poll within the first hours of voting.

Kavan attributes their success to the light relief they provided during the pandemic. “The videos sparked wit and creativity across the internet as New Zealanders revelled in the footage.

“Almost immediately, Hipkins’ gaffe became a rallying cry to ‘Spread your legs, not the virus,’ and the toddler’s goat quote became an internet sensation.”

The gaffe that energised a nation

The full impact of “spread their legs” may never be known, and there is social media speculation that it could increase New Zealand’s birth rate, Kavan said.

“Twitter users re-imagined the war against COVID-19 through the new salacious lens. Tweet after tweet celebrated Hipkins’ trail-blazing approach and the revised X-rated meaning of ‘Go early; go hard’.

“New Zealanders posted photos of themselves and their pets spreading their legs, while the Royal New Zealand Ballet tweeted photos of its dancers doing sculpture-like leg poses that most of us could only dream of accomplishing.

“There was also a heady remix video with the sign language interpreter’s gestures portrayed as dance moves.”

This is not the first time a slip of the tongue has won Quote of the Year. In 2018, Leader of the Opposition Simon Bridges beat top New Zealand comedians in the poll with his accidental reference to deputy Paula Bennett as ‘Paula Benefit’.

The toddler and the goat

Runner-up “No, it’s a f…ing goat!” was an unusual quote for the top ten because of the speaker’s young age. Although the two-year-old’s name was already public, the judges de-identified her in case the list had ramifications for her when she was older.

It was the child’s innocence that wowed voters, Kavan said. “Most of the other speakers had a topic of national importance and a relatively sophisticated vocabulary. But the toddler had a sincerity that viewers loved.”

Like “spread their legs”, the goat quote took on a life of its own, spawning social media commentary and a parody video in which the goat was replaced by footage of Donald Trump dancing. The parody has since been removed from YouTube.

Kavan said her favourite comment was by Twitter user Andrew Frame who imagined how annoyed New Zealand’s 26.16 million sheep must be that the country has gone viral because of a single goat.

Jemima Gazley  

Third place, with 13.8% of the votes, went to a more serious quote—Jemima Gazley’s “If I can’t be cured, I’ll be the cure.” Fourteen-year-old Ms Gazley was diagnosed with inoperable brain cancer in February and spent her last weeks crowdfunding to help Australian researcher Dr Matt Dun find a cure.

“If ever a quote told a story, it’s this one. My hope is that Jemima’s family can take some small comfort from knowing her courageous words will endure.” Kavan said.

New Zealand’s Quote of the Year competition began in 2011 and celebrates the country’s best language moments. 

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

New biosecurity rules are in place at Hauturu o Toi Little Barrier Island, making it illegal to anchor anywhere around the island.

Biosecurity New Zealand’s director, pest management, John Walsh, says the Controlled Area Notice (CAN) is in response to the discovery of exotic caulerpa seaweed in small patches on the island’s north and east coasts.

“The CAN is to prevent spread of the pest around the island or further afield.”

Nicola Rata-MacDonald, Chief Executive of the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, says Ngāti Manuhiri have led a collaborative rapid response effort by placing a rāhui over the same area.

“Hauturu o Toi is a sacred taonga to our people, and as New Zealand’s first ever nature reserve, it is one of the most significant conservation areas in the world. Urgent action is needed to protect it.

“We’ve worked closely with Biosecurity New Zealand, Auckland Council, the Department of Conservation, the University of Auckland and Revive our Gulf since caulerpa was discovered here in May.

“Our operations have involved surveillance for the pest seaweed and rapid treatment using chlorine pellets under benthic (seafloor) mats. So far, we’ve treated 17 small areas of exotic caulerpa.”

Mr Walsh says since exotic caulerpa was first found in New Zealand in 2021, more than $24 million has been allocated by the government to fund efforts to find caulerpa, contain its spread and develop new technologies to remove it. 

“We’re currently dealing with a very dynamic situation. While we’ve found this new area, we are also seeing substantial reductions in caulerpa in other locations. A report into this ‘biomass reduction’ is expected in coming weeks and this will look at where it’s occurring and consider possible reasons for it.”

Mr Walsh says the while the recent discovery of exotic caulerpa at Hauturu is disappointing, it isn’t unexpected given its propensity to be moved on vessels and equipment.

“We know that exotic caulerpa can be inadvertently relocated when small pieces are caught on anchors, anchor chains, and fishing/dive equipment.

“Stopping anchoring without a permit around the whole coastline out to 40 metres depth will greatly reduce this risk.”

In addition to the anchoring ban, the CAN prohibits any form of fishing in the Controlled Area that contacts the seabed such as netting, dredging, bottom trawling or lobster potting. Drift fishing, spear fishing and hand gathering are still allowed. 

“Equipment used within the CAN area – for example, fishing/diving gear, needs to be inspected before leaving the area and any seaweed found on the equipment must be removed, stored securely and disposed of on shore,” Mr Walsh says.

The introduction of this new Hauturu CAN means there are now five areas under legal controls. The others are Te Rāwhiti (Bay of Islands), Aotea (Great Barrier Island), Ahuahu (Great Mercury Island) and Waiheke Island. All five CANs will soon be reviewed before they expire on 30 September this year.

Hauturu Little Barrier Island CAN, including a map

MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry’s 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 47 62 24) 

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz

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

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  23 June 2025

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is the New Zealand management authority for CITES, the Convention on Trade in Endangered Species. The convention monitors and controls international travel of items containing protected animals and plants. It ensures that long-term survival of species is not threatened.

DOC’s Team Lead Border Operations Storm Heaven says many New Zealanders head for the warmth of Pacific Islands, Queensland, or even Hawaii to escape the New Zealand winter – and many of those travellers will want to bring back mementoes of their holidays.

“Many items found in markets or even on the beach in the Pacific Islands come from threatened species – good examples include some shark teeth or jaws, and all giant clams and stony corals,” Storm says.

“It means if your souvenir is from a species protected by CITES, a permit from the country of export is needed, and in some cases, we will need to issue a permit for the item to be brought into New Zealand.”

Among the CITES items brought back by holidaymakers who’ve travelled to Queensland are packets of crocodile jerky. Although the snacks are sold legally, from farmed crocodiles, the products must be accompanied by a CITES export permit issued from Australia.

In 2024 coral, clams and crocodile jerky made up 62% of all seizures:

“Seizures of those types items alone totalled1.26 tons: that’s the equivalent weight of a male giraffe, which is also a CITES-listed species.”

Storm says the mid-year school holidays are a noted “spike” period for DOC’s CITES team, with an increase in seizures due to people not obtaining the correct permits.

DOC’s figures show seizures of CITES-listed corals and clam shells at the border spike during school holiday periods of April, July and October.

Since 2017 (excluding the COVID years of 2020 and 2021, when NZ’s borders were closed) CITES corals and clams seizures were on average 50% higher during the school holiday periods than other times.

Although CITES seizures are generally trending down, DOC continues to see noticeable increases in the seizure of these items during holiday periods.

“We understand many families want to bring back memories of their holidays, and we urge them to visit the CITES section of the DOC website to find out more about the permit process and how they can ensure their travel trinkets can be enjoyed into the future.

“Ask yourself, ‘are my goods all good?’, and if you’re not sure – check online.”

For more information

DOC has an entire section of its website dedicated to CITES, and anyone planning on travelling overseas is urged to familiarize themselves with the CITES rules.

The department carries out a range of outreach activities and publicity work to support its CITES responsibilities, which includes the export of threatened New Zealand species.

Every person, business and community has a role in protecting and restoring nature. The CITES agreement contributes to the protection of nature, especially threatened species.

New Zealand has one of the highest numbers of threatened species in the world – more than 4000 are threatened or at risk of extinction.

It’s not just a few unique species – 72% of Aotearoa’s birds, 84 per cent of our plants, 88 per cent of our fishes and 100 per cent of our reptiles are only found in Aotearoa.

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  26 June 2025

DOC has received a report of a group of southern right whales/tohorā around the mouth of Otago Harbour. This is an unusual and exciting sighting, as typically only individuals or mother and calf pairs are seen around mainland Aotearoa New Zealand – not a group of this size.

“Tohorā came close to extinction due to 19th-century whaling,” says DOC Senior Science Advisor Dr Dave Lundquist.

“Seeing a group like this is a promising sign their population may be slowly recovering. It’s moments like these that reinforce the value of long-term monitoring and science-led conservation.”

At this time of year, tohorā are usually found around their breeding grounds in the subantarctic Maungahuka/Auckland and Motu Ihupuku/Campbell Islands. Sightings around mainland New Zealand are still relatively rare, and this week’s sighting offers hope these taonga of the sea may be returning more frequently to our coastal waters

The newly published research, led by the University of Auckland with DOC’s support, shows collecting small skin samples from tohorā using remote biopsy darts results in only minimal short-term behavioural impact. Of the more than 500 whales studied at Auckland Islands, 90 percent showed either no reaction or only a mild, brief response.

Published in Conservation Science and Practice, the study underpins a long-term monitoring programme essential for understanding how the tohorā population is recovering. The genetic and chemical information gathered has helped confirm New Zealand tohorā are a distinct population, track population growth, map the whales’ feeding and migration patterns, and even estimate whale ages — insights that would otherwise be impossible to gather.

“At DOC, we need to focus our efforts where it matters most. We invest our time, money and energy guided by the best science, and with a clear understanding of the trade-offs and opportunities in front of us,” says Dave.

“This research is a great example of that approach in action. It gives us confidence that scientists can continue collecting critical information about our recovering marine mammals, without compromising their wellbeing.”

DOC is building new tools and systems to help assess the cost of conservation outcomes, identify the most effective actions, and prioritise the investments that will have the biggest impact. Long-term research like this strengthens those tools and supports transparent decisions about what work can be done, where others can help, and where choices must be made.

Senior author Associate Professor Emma Carroll from the University of Auckland says the findings should reassure both scientists and the public.

“We’ve shown remote biopsy sampling — when carried out carefully — is a low-impact way to get high-impact insights,” she says. “It means we can monitor this population over time and respond to change, all without harming the whales.”

The research was also supported Live Ocean, and the Royal Society Te Apārangi, and was undertaken in consultation with mana whenua connected to the subantarctic islands.

DOC reminds people to share the coast with whales respectfully. If you see southern right whales or other whales, please give them space and follow the Marine Mammal Protection Regulations. Report sightings using DOC’s online form or the SeaSpotter app, including the number of whales, date and time, location (ideally with GPS), and direction of travel. Photos or video are very helpful for DOC — if they can be taken safely.

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  10 July 2025

The young male kea was found with a shattered leg bone in Golden Bay’s Ligar Bay in February. It was caught by Kea Conservation Trust staff and flown to Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s Wildbase Hospital in Manawatū, where it received complex treatment and underwent a long recovery.

The kea was released into the Cobb Valley area on Tuesday after being driven to Wellington and flown across to Takaka on Golden Bay Air. Manawhenua ki Mohua supported the release.

Kea Conservation Trust’s Tracey Dearlove says it’s fantastic this kea has recovered well enough to be released back into the wild, but the incident is a reminder we need to live alongside the inquisitive and protected parrots.

“While many people think of kea as an alpine parrot, they naturally range all the way from the mountains to the sea so it’s not unexpected to see kea in lowland and coastal areas.

“Kea are smart and curious and will interact with people and objects, which gets them into trouble and poses unique challenges to their conservation.

“Typically, the younger birds are more visible as they’re especially inquisitive. This means they can stick their beaks into things you’d rather they didn’t.

“As an endangered and protected native species, it’s unacceptable and illegal to shoot or otherwise injure kea.”

Tracey says one of the main ways people can make their property less attractive to kea is by ensuring there’s no food available to them, including pet food or unsecured compost or rubbish bins.

“If they get a taste of food even once, they can hang around for weeks hoping to get more.

“Try to make your property as boring as possible. Don’t leave out unsecured items like shoes, bikes, toys and power tools that they can play with, especially at dawn and dusk when kea are most active.

“It’s a privilege to see these charismatic parrots appearing in coastal Golden Bay, but as their local population increases and we see them in backyards more often, we’ll need to learn to live alongside them.”

DOC Senior Science Advisor Kerry Weston says the nationally endangered kea are only found in the South Island of New Zealand and their population is in decline.

“There’s thought to only be 1000-5000 of these iconic and intelligent parrots left. They’re in serious trouble, mostly due to the ongoing impacts of introduced predators like stoats and feral cats.

“Interacting with people can also be a threat – such as when people feed them, which changes their natural behaviour.

“Kea like the taste of lead but its poisonous to them, so you can help by making sure there are no lead-based building materials on your house or other buildings.”

The kea database is building an understanding of where these iconic birds are found. People can record sightings at Kea Database. Anyone who sees a sick or injured kea in the wild should call 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Background information

For more information about the shot kea’s recovery, read Massey University’s media release.

Endangered kea on the road to recovery after shooting in Golden Bay – Massey University

The Kea Conservation Trust provides support in resolving kea conflicts.

For more information visit the Trust’s website

People can take steps to make their property less attractive to kea:

• Don’t leave food (including pet food) outside, and make sure compost, rubbish and recycling bins are kea-proof. A latch or weight attached to the lid is a good way to do this. If kea get a taste of food even once, they can hang around for weeks in the hope of getting more.
• Kea love the taste of lead, but its poisonous to them. Lead is most commonly found in nails and flashings of building roofs made before 1991. If you think your building may have lead fixtures, please contact the Kea Conservation Trust or DOC. They can help you find a solution.
• Try not to leave your moveable things outside. Pack away items like shoes, bikes, clothes, toys and power tools, especially around dawn and dusk when kea are most active.
• Protect your rubber wiring and other rubber items such as rubber seals on chimney flues with a barrier, as kea particularly like to chew on rubber.

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  22 July 2025

A member of the public walking on the Rakiura Great Walk Track on 12 July reported the dead stoat to DOC, who retrieved it the next day.

The stoat’s skull was crushed indicating it had died instantaneously from either a trap or similar blunt force prior to being found on the track.

“Rakiura is known to be stoat free,” says Aaron. “The nearest stoat population is 30 km across the Foveaux Strait, their swimming range is 2 km and they are not known to stowaway on vessels. This stoat has died from a head injury then mysteriously turned up on a busy walking track.”

“We need to know if we are dealing with a new significant threat to Rakiura’s native species, or if this stoat has been transported from elsewhere and planted deliberately. Both scenarios are disturbing. We are taking this seriously.”

The dead stoat has been sent to an expert to see what further information can be obtained. Samples are being sent for genetic testing to try to determine where it has come from.

DOC is appealing to the public to come forward if they have any information about the dead stoat’s origins.

“It would have devastating implications for native wildlife if stoats were to take hold on Rakiura,” says Aaron.

“In other places in New Zealand where there are stoats, kiwi chick survival can be as low as zero without sustained pest control. Imagine the damage stoats could do on Rakiura, which is known for its tokoeka or southern brown kiwi population.”

“If stoats were to establish on Rakiura they would threaten efforts to create a predator-free space for kākāpō to be returned, and they would quickly decimate other native species on the island.”

The Predator Free Rakiura project is currently working on the removal of Rakiura’s existing pest species – rats, possums, feral cats and hedgehogs – in one of the largest and most complex predator eradication projects ever attempted on an inhabited island.

Introducing pests such as stoats constitutes an offence in New Zealand, with serious consequences and penalties including imprisonment of up to five years and significant fines.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact DOC 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468)

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  01 August 2025

The goal of the fund is to create areas of habitat alive with flora and fauna across Hawke’s Bay, and contribute to nature-based solutions to some of the region’s environmental challenges.

The fund arose from a generous bequeathment to conservation, which DOC entrusted into the management of Eastern and Central Community Trust Incorporated (ECCT). This first funding round will see approximately $500,000 of grant funding available for distribution.

Alice Heather, Lower North Island Operations Director for DOC, says supporting local community conservation is a win for everyone.

“New Zealand’s native species are unique and special, and everyone has a role in protecting and restoring nature,” says Alice. “Taking action for nature can be anything from picking up beach litter or backyard trapping, all the way up to DOC’s nationwide work to protect native species.

“We’re all in this together, so supporting projects that protect and enhance our ecosystems, and reduce the negative effects of predators our unique environment, is something everyone can get on board with.”

David Clapperton, Chief Executive Officer of the ECCT, says he is looking forward to seeing what kind of projects will apply.

“We’ve heard some ideas from community members already,” says David, “and we’re really keen to see what else the Hawke’s Bay community come up with for our local nature.”

Community groups, private landowners, iwi, and agencies throughout Hawke’s Bay can apply for the funding. Applications will be assessed by an expert panel including representatives from DOC, iwi, and the community.

The Hawke’s Bay Nature Fund 2025 opens on Monday 4 August and closes on Friday 26 September at 5 pm. Applicants will be notified of final decisions in November.

For more information and to apply, visit Eastern & Central Community Trust – Hawke’s Bay Nature Fund

Contact

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  28 July 2025

MetService has issued an Orange Heavy Rain Warning for Coromandel in response to the weather system moving in off the Tasman Sea, and is expected to dump up to 120 mm of rain on the peninsula from Tuesday 29 July. The MetService’s rain warning is paired with a strong wind watch due to possible gales in exposed places.

DOC Coromandel Senior Ranger Matt Flynn says it’s prudent to close tracks to Mautohe Cathedral Cove given the weather system’s expected impact.

“DOC’s priority for this site continues to be the safety of visitors and managing visitor risk. Poor weather exacerbates the landslide and rockfall risks at Mautohe Cathedral Cove.

“We strongly discourage people from visiting the cove while this weather system moves – the conditions make it unsafe.

“We do not want people getting hurt.”

Matt says the Mautohe Cathedral Cove closure will come into effect from 6 am on Tuesday 29 July and be in place until further notice. Decisions about whether it is safe to reopen tracks to the beach will be made once staff undertake site inspections and weather forecasts are assessed.

Sea swells are expected to increase with the weather system and anyone planning to visit Mautohe Cathedral Cove by boat should check sea conditions first and consider the risks.

Mautohe Cathedral Cove is one of Coromandel and New Zealand’s most picturesque and iconic coastal locations, famous for its rock arch. However, land around the cove is known to be potentially unstable with a noted geological and landslide risk after heavy rain events.

DOC’s Trigger Action Response Plan for Mautohe Cathedral Cove guides decision-making for track closures at the site.

Tracks to Mautohe Cathedral Cove were closed in February 2023 due to extensive damage caused by Cyclone Garbrielle. DOC repaired the tracks through the second half of 2024, and they reopened to visitors in December 2024.

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

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Friday 18 July 3:25pm

Emergency works on the bluff above State Highway 6 Rocks Road are almost complete and the route will soon be safe to reopen to traffic.

Contractors have worked hard to reopen the route this week, removing approximately 650 tonnes of material from the cliff face.

State Highway 6 Rocks Road will reopen to all road users at 6 o’clock tonight. Roadside barriers will be in place at the slip site.

NZTA/Waka Kotahi is focusing on the plan and designs for further resilience works on the cliff. Further updates will be provided when details are confirmed.

We appreciate this is a critical transport link for Nelson and its closure has created significant disruption and delays for the community.

NZTA/Waka Kotahi thanks everyone, drivers, residents, affected landowners and businesses for their patience and cooperation as contractors carried out this important work.

Given the impact of the recent weather events and flood damage across the top of the South Island, there remains an ongoing risk of slips, rock and tree falls, and the potential for further state highway closures – particularly if there is more heavy rain.

Road users can expect to encounter multiple road work and repair sites across the region and must allow extra time for their journeys. Road users are encouraged to check road conditions before they travel.

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Monday 14 July 11:58am

State Highway 6 Rocks Road is expected to remain closed to traffic for at least the next two days.

Rob Service, System Manager Nelson/Tasman, says further inspections of the site were completed this morning.

“Geotechnical investigations confirm that heavy rain has created another unstable wedge of soil, with vegetation and rocks hanging above the highway. Pieces of debris are continuing to fall intermittently.”

“Our contractors have begun sluicing to remove the debris, which is being collected and removed at the base of the slip,” Mr. Service says.

Because of the ongoing risk to the public, Mr. Service says State Highway 6 must remain closed between Bisley Avenue and Richardson Street.

“We ask that everyone—drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians—obey the road closure while work to fix the slip continues. At this stage, we do not expect to have SH6 Rocks Road open before Thursday.”

Drivers and residents can expect ongoing travel delays and congestion while the closure remains in place – particularly during peak commuting times. People are encouraged to factor this into their travel plans.

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Sunday 13 July 5:56pm

Work continues in Nelson and Tasman to restore the region’s critical state highway links.

Nelson’s link to Murchison and the West Coast was restored this afternoon with the reopening of State Highway 6 between Belgrove and Kohatu.

Work to reopen State Highway 6 at Rocks Road continues.

SH6 Rocks Road

Mark Owen, Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South, says the situation with Rocks Road is serious.

“We have had crews up assessing the site, removing the material, and monitoring earth movement over the weekend.”

“This has shown that, for safety reasons, State Highway 6 Rocks Road must remain closed,” Mr Owen says.

Mr Owen says NZTA/Waka Kotahi will continue to work with Civil Defence and the Nelson City Council on the matter

“We will work together to develop a solution, and we will do this as quickly as possible.”

“However, it does mean the road closure must remain in place until further notice. There is a clear and present risk to public safety, which must be carefully managed,” Mr Owen says.

The closure will have a significant impact on traffic flows in and out of the city and Mr Owen warns drivers must be ready for it.

“Thousands of vehicles use this route daily, shifting them on to the detour route on Waimea Road will create congestion and delays – especially during morning and afternoon rush hours. We also ask that drivers use Waimea Road as the detour and avoid using smaller residential streets.”

“People need to be ready for this and plan their travel accordingly. If you can use public transport to get to work or delay your trip in and out of the city, please do so. This will help reduce pressure on the network,” Mr Owen says.

He also asks that the public respect the closure points in place.

“They are there to keep the public safe. Falling material has a very real potential to badly hurt or even kill you. Please stay clear while we work to reopen the road.”

Mr Owen says steps are in place ensure access to local businesses is available.

“They need to keep operating, which is why we have soft closure is in place at the intersection of Russell Street. People can get to these businesses and shops – we just ask no-one travel between Bisley Avenue and Richardson Street.”

SH6 Belgrove to Kohatu

Mr Owen says contractors made fantastic progress to reopen this section of State Highway 6, earlier today.

“It wasn’t just heavy rain that hammered the region over Friday and into Saturday, wind was a major problem too.”

“Hundreds of trees were brought down along this section of State Highway 6, and it has been an immense job to get them cleared, as well as tackle slips, rockfalls, and washouts. It also means the transport link between Nelson and the West Coast is restored,” Mr Owen says.

He says the other good news is that the stop bank built at Kohatu after the Motueka River breached its banks two weeks ago has held up well.

“This area was particularly hard hit just two weeks ago and it’s great to see the protection put in place worked.”

General advice

All other state highways are open, but it is not business as usual on the roads or for driving.

In Marlborough, State Highway 63, Korere-Tophouse Road to Waihopai Valley Road remains restricted to residents and essential travel only.

State Highway 60 Tākaka Hill, while open to light and heavy vehicles, has suffered slip and washout damage and extra care and time is needed when travelling this route. It is vulnerable to further disruptions and possible closure.

Across the network, because of weather damage, drivers must drive to the conditions and take extreme care when travelling. There remains an ongoing risk of slips, rock and tree falls, and the potential for further road closures. These may happen at short notice.

Road users can expect to encounter multiple road work and repair sites across the region and must allow extra time for their journeys.

Please follow all traffic management and temporary speed limits in place. They are there to keep the public and work crews safe.

More information