Category: Public Media

Source: Radio New Zealand

After last week’s battering more bad weather on the way and the Far North council is warning people to be extremely careful as the area is already saturated, while a MetService yellow heavy rain watch has been issued for Auckland, Waikato, Taupō and Taumaranui.

The new weather front sweeping in from the north is expected to bring strong rain and winds to exposed places from Sunday night into Monday morning, with thunderstorms possible.

Downpours for Auckland, Waikato, Taupō and Taumaranui could reach up to 35 mm/h, from 1am Monday, MetService forecasters said.

“In areas outside the Watch, even though rainfall isn’t expected to reach warning amounts there could still be impacts from brief bursts of very heavy rain and strong wind gusts on already saturated ground – now’s the time to clear the drains and gutters and secure anything that could fly away or fall over,” they said.

Warning for saturated Far North

The incoming system will likely clear away quickly, but the ground is already saturated and more vulnerable than usual, the Far North District Council (FNDC) said.

People should stay away from existing landslides and slips, and keep away from waterways and steep slopes.

Far North residents experiencing weather related issues could continue to report them to the council on 0800 920 029. The helpline “operates around the clock: If you can’t get through, please leave a message with your name and contact number. We will call you back,” FNDC said, but also added the reminder that threats to life or to property should always be reported immediately to 111.

People in the affected areas should stay up to date with the latest information from MetService and NZTA as the situation changes, they said.

RNZ is New Zealand’s statutory civil defence lifeline radio broadcaster, providing vital information and updates as they come to hand. All frequencies can be found here.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

New Zealand First says ahead of expansions in the mining industry it wants more efficient approvals, to rein in the Department of Conservation, and to return half of mining royalties to local communities as targeted investment.

Leader Winston Peters has been campaigning in Westport on Sunday, and says the party’s policy restores common sense, paves the way for new mining zones and longer-term permits and will ensure funds go to the regions the mining takes place in, and “not Wellington”.

Peters also announced former Buller mayor Jamie Cleine as the party’s candidate for the West Coast-Tasman electorate, in the November general election.

“New Zealand’s mining industry is burgeoning, and we need to get ahead of its expansion to ensure we are building up our regions’ wealth, infrastructure, and future potential,” a policy statement from Peters’ office said.

“Mining is one of our most productive sectors. It contributes billions to our economy, supports thousands of jobs, and drives real growth without fuelling inflation.”

New mining rules to ‘further unlock New Zealand’s resource potential’

The current approval system for mining was overly complex and inefficient, with “rules that don’t improve environmental outcomes but do a very good job of stopping investment and costing jobs”. We will put a stop to that,” NZ First said.

If elected it would work on making mining approvals more efficient, quicker and simpler. This meant changes to where mining can occur, issuing longer-term mining permits, and changes to rules about geological surveying technologies.

“The policy package will also rein in the role of government agencies, including the Department of Conservation,” it said.

This would be achieved through changes to the Conservation and Wildlife Acts. It would curb DOC’s ability to intervene by prioritising protection for areas of high conservation only, ensuring protection for “genuinely endangered species”.

DOC would instead “need to stay focused on their core priorities”.

“Regional prosperity cannot continue to be sidelined by processes that have lost all sense of proportion. Mining in the right places, with the right rules, will give businesses the confidence to invest for the long term and continue creating jobs in regions that rely on mining.

“And to complement this, the duration of mining permits needs to reflect the maturity of the sector. We will do that by providing longer permits that creates more certainty. More confidence. And more investment.

“The length of permits need to reflect that mining is a long-term business, giving investors certainty and ensuring permits cover the full life of the mine, including rehabilitation.”

Targeted investment in the regions

Half of the funds from mining royalties would go to local services and long term development in the region the mining was being done in. And sunk into things like water services, flood protection, energy generation, tourism and transport, to “enable housing development in areas of high minerals industry growth, and critical infrastructure projects,” the party statement said.

“We will back that up with targeted, regional investment to allow these projects to succeed.”

It would also ensure mines rescue capabilities are “properly funded”.

“The New Zealand First mining policy package is ultimately about creating growth and opportunity for everyday Kiwis and building on major policies we’ve already announced like Fast-track.”

Better understanding of New Zealand’s untapped mining potential

One of the first moves would be to commission a thorough geological survey.

“Right now, we don’t even have a modern understanding of what we’ve got beneath our feet. Other countries do and that’s simply not good enough,” the party said.

“So we will deliver a modern geological survey and unlock existing data through investment in advanced core-scanning technology. Because if you don’t know what you have, you can’t make smart decisions about unlocking its full potential.”

Opportunities would be sought to add value here before shipping offshore.

“At the moment, we risk being stuck in a ‘dig and ship’ model for key future industries, sending our resources offshore and letting others make the real money.”

So there would be more focused investment in science and innovation to support the sector, as well as upskilling New Zealanders to take advantage of high paying mining jobs, by opening a new School of Mines.

Mining was “a vital part of [the West Coast] region’s economy, and a key part of New Zealand’s future,” the party said.

“You can protect the environment and grow the economy at the same time. They are not mutually exclusive,” it said.

“New Zealand First’s mining plan will help to further unlock New Zealand’s resource potential.”

“The policy package recognises the vital role mining plays in New Zealand’s economy and regional communities.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

There are fears procurers of transport services may begin to hit back at the increased cost of moving goods, Transporting New Zealand says.

Fuel prices have sky-rocketed in recent weeks, due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Transporting New Zealand chief executive Dom Kalasih said the financial viability of businesses are at risk, if costs can not be passed on.

“There’s a lot of worry, and that’s about whether procurers of transport services, their clients and customers, whether they will be fair, reasonable, and responsible in paying the additional costs,” he said

“These are unexpected costs and transport operators, at the end of the day, they’re just price takers, they can’t control the price of fuel.

“These prices are significant and ultimately, whilst Transporting New Zealand is very careful not to be seen as price-setting, the reality is those additional prices have to be passed on and someone’s got to pay for them.

“Transport operators cannot wear these price increases and the financial viability of their businesses is at risk if they cannot recoup these costs,” he said

Kalasih said transport regulations should be urgently amended to allow certain trucks to carry higher payloads as it could improve fuel efficiency across the freight task and reduce diesel cost pressures.

Heavy vehicle permitting regulations currently allow approved freight operators to run High Productivity Motor Vehicles (HPMVs) on state highways and local roads suitable for vehicles operating above the standard 44-tonne weight limit.

“I have written to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi, asking the agency to consider how the heavy vehicle permitting regulations could be urgently amended to move more freight in fewer trips,” Kalasih said

“Increasing allowable payloads on 50MAX vehicles and other HPMVs could reduce the diesel required to move freight, while maintaining a safe and well-regulated system. That will put downward pressure on freight costs at a time when businesses and consumers are doing it really tough.”

“HPMVs are already delivering fuel savings compared to standard 44-tonne trucks. For example, 50MAX trucks increase freight capacity by approximately 20 percent while only increasing diesel use by 10 percent, with their additional axle ensuring no additional wear on roads per tonne of freight.”

“Improving freight efficiency also has benefits for safety and emissions, as fewer trips are required to move the same volume of goods.” he said.

On Sunday, fuel price tracking app Gaspy showed the average price for Unleaded 91 was $3.42.

Diesel is the same, while Unleaded 95 is $3.63.

The government has fleshed out its National Fuel Plan, outlining rationing measures that would be taken if supplies start running dry.

Resembling the Covid alert levels, the plan has four ‘phases’. New Zealand is at phase one.

Phase 2 would see homes, businesses and the public sector encouraged to conserve fuel.

The higher phases are still under consultation.

Phase 3 would see fuel prioritised for life-preserving services and phase 4 would see stricter intervention in fuel distribution.

Moving up or down levels is decided by a ministerial oversight group based on fuel stocks, restrictions and supply chain data.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

The annual flu vaccine – which becomes available this coming week in NZ – can reduce risk of heart attacks, an epidemiologist says.

Epidemiologist Dr Michael Baker told Sunday Morning the influenza vaccine didn’t just reduce the risk and severity of the flu, it also reduced the risk of heart attacks and strokes by about a third for those infected.

He said increased rates of influenza can increase the amount of heart attacks because it can inflame and injure the heart muscle directly.

“The illness itself… puts stress on the organs as well and also makes the blood more prone to clotting.”

Baker said the vaccine can be as effective as heart attack medication for those infected by influenza.

He also said there were some vaccines – which are not funded – that were better suited for older people.

What’s happening with Covid?

Baker said the world was currently dealing with subvariants of Covid-19 and the latest wave was New Zealand’s biggest in 18 months.

“These waves are getting smaller, that’s the good news, but it is still causing what looks like two waves a year. It’s not seasonal at all – it can come in summer or winter – and has a mix of sub types and sub variants.”

Long Covid was also still a worry and could effect all age groups, Baker said.

“Quality of life is reduced, and while there is often some improvement overtime, many of these people in fact will have a severe long-term disability.

“And also like influenza, post-Covid infection, you are also at higher risk of having heart attacks and strokes for example,” he said.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

More Bluebridge ferry sailings have been cancelled after a fault on one of its ships.

The technical fault on the Connemara means tonight’s Wellington to Picton 8.30pm service will not happen.

Services tomorrow are also cancelled.

It is the latest in a string of canned sailings for the ship, which have lasted more than a week.

The Connemara usually sails up to four times daily between Wellington and Picton.

Bluebridge said there were limited options for re-booking.

StraitNZ Bluebridge apologised “unreservedly” on Friday for the disruption but would not elaborate on what the fault was, just that it was taking longer than anticipated to fix.

Maritime NZ confirmed it would undertake its own inspection of the vessel to ensure safety standards were being met, but did not provide a timeframe.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

Pharmac is closely monitoring potential medicine supply risks arising from Iran war.

This follows international reports that the UK is weeks away from medicine shortages if the conflict continues.

The Iran war has affected the global supply of a range of raw ingredients.

Pharmac said a small number of supply issues have been identified so far and there are currently no problems stemming from those for New Zealanders.

It warned supply challenges will not be unique to New Zealand or to healthcare and were being felt across the world and almost every sector.

It said it’s working with suppliers, Health New Zealand, Medsafe, and the logistics sector to identify risks early and secure alternative products if necessary.

The chair of General Practice NZ, Dr Bryan Betty, said New Zealand is at the end of a very long supply chain.

He said it’s important that Pharmac is monitoring international developments.

Betty said the agency has not provided any specific advice about new medication shortages due to the Iran war.

The Ministry of Health is also working to identify and manage supply risks.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

Police say they arrested considerably more people at Whangamatā’s Beach Hop car event than in recent years.

Tens of thousands of people flocked to the event at the seaside town on the Coromandel Penninsula, but police were kept busy with anti-social behaviour as evening fell.

“This is an enjoyable event, which is so important for the local economy, and it was run really well with participants and attendees having a great time, and mostly behaving themselves,” Eastern Waikato area commander Inspector Mike Henwood said.

“Unfortunately, some of the people attracted to the event caused some issues for police later in the night.”

Thirty were arrested for fighting in a public place and disorderly behaviour, and about 40 liquor ban infringement notices were issued.

“While the amount of people blatantly ignoring the longstanding liquor ban in the area is similar to recent years, the number of arrests is considerably higher,” Henwood said.

“It is extremely disappointing that the behaviour of some people required us to make arrests, issue tickets and deal with drink drivers. However, it was anticipated, which is why there was an increased police presence carrying out foot patrols and checkpoints in the area.

“We encourage those attending these types of events to have fun, but in a safe and lawful manner,”

More than 3000 drivers were breath-tested in the area during the weekend, with 11 exceeding breath alcohol limits.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

Source: Radio New Zealand

The annual flu vaccine – which becomes available this coming week in NZ – can reduce risk of heart attacks, an epidemiologist says.

Epidemiologist Dr Michael Baker told Sunday Morning the influenza vaccine didn’t just reduce the risk and severity of the flu, it also reduced the risk of heart attacks and strokes by about a third for those infected.

He said increased rates of influenza can increase the amount of heart attacks because it can inflame and injure the heart muscle directly.

“The illness itself… puts stress on the organs as well and also makes the blood more prone to clotting.”

Baker said the vaccine can be as effective as heart attack medication for those infected by influenza.

He also said there were some vaccines – which are not funded – that were better suited for older people.

What’s happening with Covid?

Baker said the world was currently dealing with subvariants of Covid-19 and the latest wave was New Zealand’s biggest in 18 months.

“These waves are getting smaller, that’s the good news, but it is still causing what looks like two waves a year. It’s not seasonal at all – it can come in summer or winter – and has a mix of sub types and sub variants.”

Long Covid was also still a worry and could effect all age groups, Baker said.

“Quality of life is reduced, and while there is often some improvement overtime, many of these people in fact will have a severe long-term disability.

“And also like influenza, post-Covid infection, you are also at higher risk of having heart attacks and strokes for example,” he said.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand