NZ Engine

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Superintendent Tony Hill, Canterbury District Commander: 

Police are urging Canterbury residents to prepare, and to take extra care, with a red wind warning and state of local emergency declared for Thursday 23 October. 

Avoid non-essential travel.

Consider if you really need to leave home. You may need to adjust any travel plans you have made. Roads and highways are already impacted, and some roads may be closed. 

If you must travel, drive to the conditions and take extra care. 

High winds could damage trees, powerlines and insecure roofs, and make driving hazardous for all drivers and especially for high-sided vehicles and motorcyclists. 

Do not light any outdoor fires for any reason.

A fire ban is in place from now until Sunday. Avoid lighting any fires or using gas cookers outside. A fire in high winds will spread very quickly. Police will be investigating any suspicious fires and may prosecute those responsible.

We have staff out in force during this emergency to help keep people safe.

If you need help urgently call 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer, Northland Area Investigations Manager:

Police can now confirm that a death in Bank Street, Whangārei is not being treated as suspicious.

Police had been called to Bank Street at around 5.40am today, after a 56-year-old woman was located deceased.

A post mortem will be completed tomorrow and the matter will be referred to the Coroner.

We would like to thank those impacted by the cordons in place on Bank Street today, for their patience and understanding.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Detective Sergeant Karli Whiu,

Hastings Police investigating a suspicious approach in the Whakatu area would like to advise parents to be alert, not alarmed.

At around 3.15pm on Tuesday 21 October, a man approached a young girl and began interacting with her as she was walking home.

We acknowledge the girl who has done the right thing by avoiding the man, making her way home, and telling her caregivers.

Police are still working to understand exactly what has occurred and our enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

We understand an incident like this can be unsettling to the community however, we ask parents to be alert, not alarmed.

Police encourages parents and caregivers to have discussions around behaviours and actions that are inappropriate or that make a child feel uncomfortable.

This enables them to identify behaviours that make them uncomfortable, unsafe or scared, and take action by removing themselves from the situation and tell someone they trust.

Police ask those in the Whakatu area who have CCTV or dashcams to please review their footage from Tuesday around 3.15pm, and ask them get in touch with Police if they see any suspicious activity.

We ask the community to report suspicious activity to us as soon as possible by calling 111.

For non-emergencies, or to provide information after-the-fact, please contact Police through our 105 services.

Please use the reference number 251022/0221.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Drivers are being urged to take extreme care on the roads tomorrow (Thursday), with red level weather warnings being issued by Metservice.

A red-level Strong Wind Warning is in place for Wellington and Wairarapa, south of Carterton, from 6 am to 4 pm tomorrow. Severe gale northwesterlies with damaging gusts of 140 km/h in exposed places are forecast.

In the South Island, an orange-level Strong Wind Warning applies for Marlborough, and a Strong Wind Watch will be in place for the Grey, Buller, and Nelson/Tasman districts.

Mark Owen, Regional Manager for the Lower North Island and Top of the South, says these are critical weather warnings and must be heeded by the public.

“A red warning means there is an actual risk to life. It is essential that people pay it the respect it requires. Avoid travel if the weather is extreme. Avoid unnecessary travel and do not put yourself at risk, or those who may be required to rescue you should you run into trouble.”

“The bad weather seen earlier this week in the South Island and lower North Island demonstrates that strong winds can pose a real danger to the public and can, and do, close roads,” Mr Owen says.

With the forecast for tomorrow predicting worse weather than seen earlier this week, Mr Owen says disruptions and road closures can be expected.

“The forecast wind gust speeds for Wellington and Wairarapa are at a level where State Highway 2 Remutaka Hill could be closed for safety reasons.”

“And, as we saw in Wairarapa and the Kaikoura Coast on Tuesday, winds of this strength do bring down trees and power lines and close roads and highways,” Mr. Owen says.

Severe weather is also forecast for other areas – northern Wairarapa, Hawke’s Bay, Canterbury, and the West Coast.

Mr Owen says anyone planning to travel to these areas this week need to keep up to date on road and weather conditions.

“What is coming tomorrow may have a longer impact on roads and highway. Please, make sure you check road and weather conditions before you travel, and make informed and sensible decisions.”

Contractors will be on call to deal with incidents as they arise. However, safety is a priority and incident responses may be delayed if weather conditions are too dangerous.

More information

Source: New Zealand Government

The Minister for Emergency Management and Recovery Mark Mitchell has declared a state of local emergency for the Canterbury Region, to assist in the response to the current severe weather.

The Minister signed the declaration at 03:24pm today.

“I have made this declaration as the Canterbury Mayors have not yet been able to be sworn in following the recent local elections,” Mr Mitchell said. 

“The National Emergency Management Agency have been in close contact with the Canterbury Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and confirmed that a declaration is necessary.

“The state of local emergency will ensure local Civil Defence have access to the emergency powers they need to respond and support emergency services during this event.”

“This is a significant weather event that is causing impacts around many parts of the country. My thoughts are with everyone that has been affected. 

“Listen to advice provided by your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group and emergency services and follow any instructions. Put safety first. Don’t take any chances.

“Stay up to date with the latest weather information from MetService. For advice on how to prepare for dangerous winds and severe weather visit getready.govt.nz.”

Notes to editors:

Minister Mitchell is travelling to Canterbury tonight to support local government and first responders during this emergency. 

Under section 69 of the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002 the Minister can declare a state of local emergency in certain cases, including if it has not been or cannot be declared by an authorised person at a local level. This includes in times when an emergency arises following a local election but before elected representatives have been sworn in.

Only elected representatives of the members of the Civil Defence Emergency Management Group can declare a state of local emergency. Following a local election there may be no-one available to declare as members cannot act as an elected representative until they are sworn in (clause 14, Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002).

Source: New Zealand Government

Universities Minister Dr Shane Reti has announced five new appointments and three reappointments to the governing councils of Lincoln University, Massey University, Victoria University of Wellington and Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi. 

“Universities and wānanga have critical responsibilities in the education and development of talent this country needs. To enable this important role, we need capable and experienced councils for our tertiary education institutions,” says Dr Reti. 

“I am very pleased to appoint Grant Miller to Lincoln University Council, Mei Fern Johnson and Megan Evans to the Victoria University of Wellington Council, and Jeremy Gardiner and Dr Warren Williams to the Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi Council. 

“I am also pleased to reappoint David Jensen to the Lincoln University Council, Ross Buckley to Massey University Council and Rauru Kirikiri to the Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi Council. I appreciate their willingness to serve another term at these important institutions.” 

Lincoln University Council 

Grant Miller has been appointed to the Lincoln University Council, alongside the reappointment of David Jensen. Grant Miller is a farmer, professional director and consultant, who until recently served as an elected Councillor on the Selwyn District Council. 

Victoria University of Wellington Council 

Mei Fern Johnson and Megan Evans are new appointments to the Victoria University of Wellington Council. 

Mei Fern Johnson is a lawyer and holds a partnership in a law firm. She brings more than 25 years’ experience providing legal advice to a broad range of clients across the private and public sectors. 

Megan Evans is also a lawyer and law firm partner. She has extensive experience in and knowledge of employment law and legislation design and development. 

Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi Council 

Jeremy Gardiner and Dr Warren Williams are new appointments to the Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi Council. 

Jeremy Gardiner (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Pikiao, Te Whānau-ā-Apanui, Te Whakatōhea) is a former Chief Executive who has commercial acumen and entrepreneurial skills, and extensive experience in Māori economic development.  

Dr Warren Williams (Ngai Tūhoe, Waikato) is a Chief Executive and has valued leadership and governance experience in the technology sector. 

“I thank all the new appointments for accepting these important strategic leadership roles. The level of commitment shown across the university councils is very much appreciated. I would like to acknowledge those reappointed members who are continuing to support and serve the tertiary education institutions,” says Dr Reti. 

“I also wish to thank the outgoing council members for their contributions.”

The outgoing council members are Hon Maryan Street (Victoria University of Wellington) and Dr Tuihana Pook and Charlie Tawhiao (Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi).  

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  22 October 2025 Source:  Waikato-Tainui and University of Waikato

The two scholarships were established in 2024 through a partnership between University of Waikato, Waikato-Tainui and Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation.

Both scholarships were created in memory of two highly respected kaumaatua; Pokaia Nepia and Takiri mai te ata Turner. Fondly known as “Uncle Poka” and “Koro Taki”, they were instrumental in many organisations in the Waikato region, creating rich channels of communication and engagement to Waikato-Tainui.

Awarded based on academic merit, the scholarships were established to support Waikato-Tainui uri (descendant) in pursuing studies at the University of Waikato, focusing on areas that align with the strategic aspirations of the iwi.

The Taki Turner recipients are:

• Niki Crombie (Te Awamaarahi Marae)
• Shanaia Maniapoto-Clancy (Waingaro Marae)
• Teagan Ngataki (Whaataapaka Marae).

The two Pokaia Nepia scholars are:

• Tiffany Walker (Te Papa-o-Rotu marae)
• Ryan Metcalfe (Te Kaharoa (Aramiro) Marae).

Pokaia Nepia scholar Ryan Metcalfe (Te Kaharoa (Aramiro) Marae)
Image: Waikato-Tainui ©.

Waikato-Tainui General Manager for Heritage and Identity, Glenda Taituha-Toka says Waikato-Tainui is really excited to bring strategic partnerships closer to tribal members through these types of scholarshipsImage: Waikato-Tainui.

“Investment into education has been a priority since the establishment of the post-settlement entity and has produced much of our leadership today. Continuing the legacy that totara like Uncle Poka and Koro Taki left for us is a privilege, but also a challenge to our recipients to leave their own mark for their iwi.”

Te Ihorangi Maaori, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Maaori of the University of Waikato, Dr Sarah-Jane Tiakiwai said it was an extra special ceremony.

“Having these two scholarships being awarded as part of Kiingitanga Day reflects their commitment to the Kiingitanga and to the many kaupapa they were each involved in, including the taiao.

“It was a privilege having members of their whaanau presenting the awards. For the recipients, it makes these scholarships real – knowing they are stepping into the spaces left by these two humble men through their dedicated service to Waikato-Tainui and to the Kiingitanga.”

“As part of the Conservation Accord between Waikato-Tainui and Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation, we recognise the opportunity to support iwi aspirations across education, research and capability development through scholarships,” says DOC’s Waikato Operations Manager Niwha Jones.

“In discussing scholarship ideas with Waikato-Tainui leaders, two Waikato rangatira immediately came to our collective mind due to their commitment to the Kiingitanga, and conservation – Takiri mai te ata Turner and Pokaia Nepia.”

“We hope these scholarships support our future leaders in environmental spaces, with hopes their endeavours further grow Conservation aspirations for Waikato-Tainui supported by Te Papa Atawhai Department of Conservation and enable people to enjoy naturing in protected and flourishing environments.”

Contact

Source: New Zealand Government

Electricity Authority Chair Anna Kominik has announced her resignation, Energy Minister Simon Watts says.

“I want to acknowledge the work Ms Kominik has led over her tenure and thank her for her contribution. As chair, Ms Kominik has led significant reforms in the electricity sector and I am confident they will build a more secure and affordable electricity market for consumers,” Mr Watts says. 

The timing of Ms Kominik’s decision was linked to another professional opportunity, and because the time is right following the Frontier Economics Review of Electricity Market Performance. She will remain as chair until a replacement is appointed.  

Prior to leaving, Ms Kominik will commence a Board-led organisational review of the Authority.

“Following the Frontier report, the Government has signalled a commitment to strengthen the Authority’s enforcement capacity and analytical capability. The Electricity Authority Board will commission the report and will work with Government on the recommendations early in 2026,” Mr Watts says.

“The purpose of the review is to ensure the regulator is able to deliver on its widened pro-competitive mandate, while at the same time being anchored in consumer benefit and public value.”

The current Authority vacancies will be publicly advertised on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment website Current board vacancies | Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are aware of strike action planned in central Auckland tomorrow, which is expected to cause significant disruption on the roads.

The rally is due to start about midday at Aotea Square, and will include a march down Queen Street to Te Komititanga Square, where the event will conclude.

Motorists are advised to expect delays and avoid Queen Street and the surrounding areas if possible.

Plan ahead and allow extra time.

Public transport users should check Auckland Transport’s website for information on changes to services.

Police are working closely with event organisers to ensure the safety of all participants and the wider public.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Government

Minister for Children Karen Chhour has today announced the achievement of a reduction of harm in state care residences, the first reduction of its kind in New Zealand’s history.  

“I am grateful to be able to confirm the first ever reduction of harm within Youth Justice and Care and Protection residences, a 14% decrease since 2024, this latest data shows our focus and hard work is getting results.  

It is tragic that any harm occurs, but we have made a number of investments and changes to practice to get meaningful reductions to harm. We are fixing what matters.  

There has been a significant programme of change across all of our residences and we believe that our strengthened systems and clear focus on safety supports the reduction of harm in residences.  

I made improving safety in residences one of my key priorities for Oranga Tamariki when I first became Minister for Children, and Oranga Tamariki have stepped up to this challenge.  

They have implemented improved and greater training, enhanced recruitment, and strengthened leadership.  

Training initiatives include frontline leadership training being rolled out across secure residences to ensure teams have the support and specialist knowledge needed to reduce harm.  

They also include better induction programmes for staff have also been introduced in our youth justice residences, which has a strong focus safety, including proactive behaviour management.  

We’re also investing in a number of safety and quality improvements to the facilities at youth justice residences. We have introduced a practice of only using see-through bags in these residences so that the contents can be observed, this supports safety by preventing unauthorised or potentially harmful items being brought in, even inadvertently.  

When children and young people have experienced harm in a residence, there is planning for immediate safety, a medical response is provided when needed, and the Police are involved when required.  

This work aligns with, and was very much inspired by, the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in State Care, particularly the heartfelt words of survivors who wanted us to ensure their experiences weren’t repeated. We have listened, and we thank you for speaking up.  

We have refocused the children’s system on what matters – the safety and wellbeing of children, whether in the community or residences – and the results are clear,” says Minister Chhour.