NZ Engine

Source: New Zealand Government

Sport will play a bigger role in strengthening New Zealand’s international ties, boosting trade, and showcasing our country to the world under a new Government strategy launched today, Associate Sport & Recreation Minister Chris Bishop says.

“Sport is a universal language. It opens doors, builds trust, and connects people in ways traditional diplomacy can’t. We’ve all seen how a game of rugby, cricket, or hockey can create bonds between nations that go well beyond sport itself.

“New Zealanders are rightly proud of our Kiwi athletes and teams who perform so brilliantly on the world stage. Now we’re backing our country’s sporting strengths to advance New Zealand’s interests overseas.

“The Sport Diplomacy Strategy, released today, will use our proud sporting reputation to grow international connections, support our goal of doubling exports over the next decade, and develop ties with countries across the world.

“The Strategy’s initial focus is on India, the Pacific, and the United States. These are markets where we can deliver strong diplomatic, and economic results – and where sport can make a real difference as we grow these relationships and open up new opportunities for New Zealand exporters and businesses.

“This work builds on successes such as the Prime Minister’s trade mission to India earlier this year, where sport played a central role. That visit saw the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation in Sports between Sport New Zealand and India’s Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.

“In 2026 we’ll mark 100 years of sporting ties between India and New Zealand with a series of major events and tours. Cricket, hockey, and other sports will bring Kiwi and Indian communities together to celebrate our shared history and future.

“The centenary celebration with India will be far more than a series of sporting events; it will be a nationwide programme of sport, culture, business, and diplomacy.

“New Zealanders know that sport isn’t just about what happens on the field – it’s about the friendships, trust, and connections that last long after the final whistle.

“By working together across government, the Sport Diplomacy Strategy will deliver for our athletes and sporting bodies, while also boosting trade, tourism, education, and investment.

“It’s about using sport to strengthen New Zealand’s place in the world and build a more prosperous future.

Note to editor:

 The New Zealand Government Sport Diplomacy Strategy 2025–2030 is available on the Sport NZ website.

 The New Zealand Sport Diplomacy Strategy 2025–2030 brings together nine agencies, led by Sport New Zealand, to coordinate efforts and make the most of our global sporting reputation. It complements MBIE’s Major Events Strategy and focuses resources where they can have the greatest impact.

 The government agencies committed to The New Zealand Government Sport Diplomacy Strategy 2025–2030 include Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE), Invest New Zealand (Invest NZ), Tourism New Zealand (Tourism NZ), Education New Zealand (Education NZ), New Zealand Story (NZ Story), Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), Major Events, Ministry of Culture and Heritage (MCH) and Sport New Zealand Ihi Aotearoa (Sport NZ)

Source: New Zealand Government

A new flyover set to open to traffic in East Auckland will ease congestion and boost the city’s productivity, Transport Minister Chris Bishop, Auckland Minister Simeon Brown and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown say.

The Reeves Road flyover, which directly links Pakuranga Road to Pakuranga Highway, was officially opened today by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Transport Minister Chris Bishop, Auckland Minister Simeon Brown and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown.

“Sitting in traffic wastes time and money. A fast, reliable transport network in Auckland is essential for the city’s growth and for New Zealand’s prosperity,” Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.

“The new flyover will open to citybound traffic in the coming days, and then fully open in both directions in late October once the intersection work is finished.

“It’s a key piece of the $1.3 billion Eastern Busway project, jointly funded by the Crown, NZ Transport Agency and Auckland Council and delivered by Auckland Transport.

“The Eastern Busway will benefit both drivers and public transport users. By 2027, people will be able to move quickly by rapid bus and train between Botany, Pakuranga, Panmure, and all the way into the city centre.

“When the Eastern Busway to Botany is complete it will provide a reliable 40-minute bus and train trip between Botany and downtown Auckland. By 2028 it is forecasted to carry 18,000 passengers per day, with 24,000 passengers per day by 2048.

“Alongside the City Rail Link, which opens in 2026, these projects will reshape the way people get around Auckland. The Panmure to Pakuranga busway, already open, is proof of how rapid transit can give people better access to jobs and opportunities across the city.

“This is all part of the Government’s work to build a transport system that supports economic growth, lifts productivity, and makes travel safer and more reliable.”

“For too long there has been under-investment in transport infrastructure in East Auckland and we are changing that,” says Auckland Minister Simeon Brown.  

“The Reeves Road Flyover is something that people in East Auckland have waited a long time for. The vast majority of people in East Auckland travel to work by car, and this roading connection will provide some much-needed relief from traffic congestion around the Pakuranga Plaza. 

“As Auckland grows, we must invest in both roads and public transport. This project does exactly that, with the Reeves Road Flyover separating motorists from the new Eastern Busway beneath it. The busway will deliver a vital public transport link from East Auckland to the CBD, allowing people to travel from Botany to Britomart in just 40 minutes.

“The people of East Auckland had to fight hard to keep the Reeves Road Flyover on the plans after multiple attempts to cancel this project because it was a road. Thankfully, commonsense won and this project will soon be open for motorists. 

“It is also benefiting the economy now by providing jobs, with about 500 workers currently employed by the Eastern Busway project,” Mr Brown says.

Mayor Wayne Brown says the flyover will ease traffic delays at one of Auckland’s busiest intersections.

“The Eastern Busway is a major investment by Auckland Council and the Government and delivers on one of my five key policies – Get Auckland moving.  As well as the flyover, the project includes 7km of dedicated busway with five new stations, and 12km of walking and cycling routes,” says Mayor Brown.  

“I’m focused on delivering projects better, faster and cheaper, so I’m pleased to see Auckland Transport and its Eastern Busway Alliance partners open the flyover five months ahead of schedule and under budget.  

“The flyover allows for the creation of a dedicated busway improving the speed and reliability of public transport and reduces congestion.  This makes it easier for people to get to their destinations around our city quickly and safely,” says Mayor Brown.

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is concluding 15 years of negotiations with Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu as a Deed of Settlement is signed in Wellington today, Treaty Negotiations Minister Paul Goldsmith says 

“Settling long-standing Treaty negotiations is a major priority for this Government, so I am pleased to be making such significant progress.

“The Deed of Settlement includes financial and commercial redress of $5.5 million, the return of 17 sites of cultural significance, and a range of other redress items. Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu will also receive redress via the Pare Hauraki Collective Redress Deed. 

“While no settlement can fully compensate for the Crown’s past injustices, this settlement will support the aspirations and prosperity of Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu for generations to come.

“Historical grievances of Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu include the confiscation of land, Crown purchasing, and mining. This left Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu virtually landless and had a detrimental impact on their economic, social and cultural wellbeing.

“I thank the negotiators for Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu for their commitment to working with the Crown for the settlement of their historical Treaty of Waitangi claims.” 

“The Government will now introduce legislation to Parliament to enact the settlement into law.”

Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu is an iwi based in the Hauraki region. Their area of interest is centred around Te Aroha, the Kaimai Range, Coromandel Peninsula and the Hauraki Plains. 

The deed of settlement can be viewed online at Te Tari Whakatau – Ngāti Rāhiri Tumutumu. 

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are in attendance at a serious crash on State Highway One near Huntly.

Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash near Ralph Road at around 11.50am.

One person has received critical injuries.

The southbound lane is closed and diversions are in place.

Motorists are advised to follow diversions and expect delays.

ENDS

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey today officially opened Ngā Wai Ngāro, a new acute mental health facility at Palmerston North Hospital.

“This new unit marks a fundamental shift in how we support people in mental distress. It ensures that when someone is in need of support, they are in a safe, supportive environment designed to help them get well,” Mr Doocey says.

“This $66.6 million investment delivers 28 modern patient bedrooms, therapy rooms, a gym, natural light, outdoor areas and family spaces, all designed to create a more therapeutic environment that supports faster recovery.

“The opening today is part of the Government’s mental health plan to deliver faster access to support, more frontline workers and a better crisis response.

“People go into mental health facilities to get well and be safe, which is exactly what this new facility is designed to do. Families should be able to trust that when a loved one reaches out for support, they are in a safe environment and receiving the support they need.

“This is a good example of what can be achieved when we listen to those voices who have lived experience, to staff on the frontline, and to the community.

“I acknowledge that today’s opening has been long awaited by many. It is an understatement to say this facility is a major step up from Ward 21, and I am confident it will deliver better mental health care for the region.”

The new facility will begin welcoming patients later this year, with a transition plan in place to ensure continuity of care before the existing Ward 21 formally closes.

“Whether it’s you, your child, a friend, or a family member reaching out for support, this Government is committed to ensuring support is there.”

Source: New Zealand Government

Attorney-General Judith Collins today announced the appointments of 12 King’s Counsel.

The rank of King’s Counsel is primarily awarded to barristers sole who have met the overarching criteria of excellence in their careers, although some can be appointed in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to law.

“That is the case this year, with Chief Parliamentary Counsel Cassie Nicholson being made a KC in recognition of her significant contribution to the drafting of legislation for New Zealand,” Ms Collins says.

The 11 barristers sole appointed, from 107 applications, are Brian Dickey, Tiana Epati, Kevin Glover, Katie Hogan, Sarah Jerebine, Paul Keegan, Simon Ladd, Richard Marchant, Balthazar Matheson, Matthew Smith, and Alan Webb.

“The standards to be appointed King’s Counsel are extremely high and I am delighted that our legal profession continues to feature such distinguished individuals,” Ms Collins says.

“I am also pleased to note the wide variety of practice areas in which our newest silks have experience, increasing the availability of King’s Counsel in specialist fields,” Ms Collins says.

“All of our new King’s Counsel have demonstrated a particular commitment to improving access to justice alongside their excellent work as advisors and litigators. They all have strong links to their communities and significant instances of pro bono, legally aided and similar work. I congratulate each of them and their families on their appointment.”

Cassie Nicholson

Cassie Nicholson is the Chief Parliamentary Counsel and Chief Executive Officer of the Parliamentary Counsel Office, New Zealand’s law drafting office. She graduated from Victoria University, was a Commonwealth scholar, and holds a Master of Laws from the London School of Economics. She was Deputy Chief Parliamentary Counsel (drafting legislation) from 2016 and was appointed Chief Parliamentary Counsel in 2021.

Brian Dickey

Brian Dickey specialises in criminal law, and has expertise in commercial regulatory prosecutions. He graduated from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 1990. He was the Auckland Crown Solicitor for eight years until 2023 and from 2024 he has led Crown negotiations with Ngāpuhi hapu and Hauraki iwi.

Tiana Epati

Tiana Epati specialises in complex regulatory and serious criminal investigations, with particular expertise in appeals. She graduated from the University of Auckland and was admitted to the bar in 2000. She was a partner at Rishworth, Wall & Mathieson, before becoming a barrister sole in 2022. Tiana served as president of the New Zealand Law Society (NZLS) from 2019-2022.

Kevin Glover

Kevin Glover is an expert in intellectual property litigation. He graduated from the University of Waikato in 1999, was admitted to the bar in 2000 and earned his Master of Laws from the University of Cambridge in 2004. He joined the bar in 2009 and is a member of Shortland Chambers. He has lectured at the University of Auckland and is a co-author of Trade Marks in Practice and Intellectual Property Law.

Katie Hogan

Katie Hogan specialises in criminal law, with particular expertise in the criminal proceeds jurisdiction. She graduated from the University of Otago in 2000, was admitted to the bar in 2002 and, after working as a Crown prosecutor, joined City Chambers in 2018. She has been a legal consultant for the Samoan Attorney-General and has acted for the Cook Islands Crown.

Sarah Jerebine

Sarah Jerebine is a civil litigator, specialising in public law. She graduated from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 2001. She joined the Crown Law Office in 2010 and then Bankside Chambers in 2019. Ms Jerebine sits on the New Zealand Bar Association Council and Auckland Branch Council of the NZLS.

Paul Keegan

Paul Keegan is a defence barrister, specialising in criminal jury trial and appellate advocacy. He graduated from Victoria University and was admitted to the bar in 1992. He became a barrister sole in 2004 and founded Marsland Chambers in New Plymouth in 2021. He is a member of the Legal Aid selection committee, the Legal Aid disciplinary committee and is a Ministry of Justice auditor.

Simon Ladd

Simon Ladd is a commercial litigator. He graduated from the University of Auckland and was admitted to the bar in 1995. He earned a Master of Laws from the University of Chicago in 2000 and was a partner at Bell Gully before joining Shortland Chambers in 2021. He is the Director of the Legal Research Foundation and the Chair of the Judicial Tribunal of Athletics New Zealand.

Richard Marchant

Richard Marchant is a criminal lawyer. He studied at the University of Auckland and was admitted to the bar in 1985. He was a partner at Meredith Connell before establishing Regent Chambers in 2016. In 2025 he joined Acacia Chambers. He has been a Commissioner for Transport Accident Investigation and is a convenor for the Parole Board.

Balthazar Matheson

Bal Matheson is a resource management lawyer. He graduated from Otago University in 1998 and was admitted to the bar in 1999. He was a partner at Russell McVeagh before joining Richmond Chambers in 2016. He is a long-standing contributing author to New Zealand’s leading resource management law textbook.

Matthew Smith

Matthew Smith specialises in public law. He graduated from the University of Otago in 2005, was admitted to the bar in 2007 and obtained a Master of Laws from Harvard in 2009. He joined Thorndon Chambers in 2011, is the author of the New Zealand Judicial Review Handbook and is a member of the Legislation and Design Advisory Committee.

Alan Webb

Alan Webb is a resource management lawyer. He graduated from Victoria University in 1988 and was admitted to the bar in 1989. He was a partner at Norris Ward McKinnon before joining the bar and is a member of Quay Chambers. Alan has served on NZLS Complaints Committee and currently serves on the NZLS and The Law Association Environmental Law Committees, and the NZ Bar Association Advocacy Committee.

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch:

Today’s verdict brings an outcome to what has been an extremely challenging and difficult investigation. 

Police are pleased with the conviction today of the man who set the fatal fire that that killed five innocent men, injured others, and took the home of those who lived at Loafers Lodge.

I would like to acknowledge the families of the five victims whose loved ones were taken from them through the actions of this man, and recognise their patience and understanding during this long process.

I also want to acknowledge the residents of Loafers Lodge, many of whom gave evidence in the trial, and who have been present during the proceedings in the courtroom over the past month.

During the trial, we heard about the incredible bravery and courage of many of them who assisted in the initial fire-fighting efforts and helped many residents to safety. They were heroes. 

There was evidence heard of the actions of the firefighters that raced into the building to fight the fire and rescue trapped residents. They did all that was humanly possible to save the men.They couldn’t have done anything more, and I want to recognise their courage and professionalism.

I also want to thank the Police investigation team and crown prosecutors for their efforts, commitment, and professionalism over the past  two-and-a-half years. The investigation has been taxing, and my team have worked relentlessly to understand exactly what happened on that terrible night, and to provide answers for the affected families, the residents and the public. 

The investigation, however, does not end with this verdict. The police have not overlooked the actions of others who may have contributed to the deaths, and we look ahead to the trial in 2026 of the four people alleged to be involved with the management of the buildings fire safety systems.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre
 

Source: Privacy Commissioner

26 Sept 2025, 10:30

Right to Know Day on 28 September is a good reminder to New Zealanders of their right to access and correct their own information, the Privacy Commissioner says.

International Right to Know Day recognises the right to request access to information. The Privacy Act reinforces the importance of transparency and building trust in organisations.

“Organisations make decisions about people based on the information they hold, but these details and circumstances can frequently change, so it’s important people can access their personal information and check it’s accurate, Privacy Commissioner Michael Webster says.”

“All New Zealanders can ask what personal information organisations and businesses hold about them, and they can also ask to have this information corrected if it’s wrong.

“You can ask small and large businesses, government departments, schools, sports clubs, charities, and community groups and they must respond to your request within 20 working days. 

“An incorrect date of birth, address or name could affect a person’s ability to access services, funding or support, so it’s important people are able to check their details and make sure they’re accurate.”

Access to personal information is an important provision under the Privacy Act as people should be able to see what information agencies hold about them, while the correction of personal information gives people the right to ask agencies to correct information they think is wrong.

Further information:

Source: Worksafe New Zealand

26 September 2025

As the days grow longer, spring is the perfect time for farmers to take stock—not just of their livestock and crops, but of their health and safety practices too.

Source: New Zealand Police

A driver allegedly reaching speeds of more than three times the speed limit has been caught out by our eye in the sky.

The Police Air Support Unit was travelling over Pakuranga last night at about 11pm when they spotted a vehicle driving dangerously on Botany Road.

Counties Manukau East Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Ann Wilkie, says Eagle immediately contacted units on the ground and directed them to the vehicle’s location.

“The vehicle was estimated to be travelling in excess of 150kmh.

“Staff were able to safely stop the vehicle on Hope Farm Road where the driver underwent a breath screening test.

“He was subsequently found to be more than twice over the legal alcohol limit.”

Inspector Wilkie says there are four factors that can lead to fatalities and serious injuries on our roads – restraints, impairment through alcohol and drugs, distractions, and speed.

“Motorists are urged to take greater responsibility on our roads and ensure everyone in their vehicle is able to reach their destination safely.

“It’s incredibly lucky this incident didn’t have a different outcome.”

The 34-year-old man had his vehicle impounded and enquiries are ongoing.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police