NZ Engine

Source: New Zealand Police

Canterbury Police are continuing to investigate the sudden death of a man at a residential address on Eastern Terrace in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Police have now concluded a full forensic scene examination at the property, and the scene has been formally handed back to the family. Officers have completed a number of inquiries and are making very good progress in establishing the facts surrounding the man’s death.

A forensic post-mortem has been completed and the results will assist investigators in determining both the cause and the time of death. The deceased’s family have assisted Police with inquiries.

Police have completed an area canvas of the Eastern Terrace neighbourhood, which has helped piece together some of the deceased’s recent movements. In addition, a significant amount of CCTV footage has been gathered and is currently being reviewed by the investigation team.

“We’ve made substantial progress since Saturday,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Daniel Overend. “The information gathered over the past few days has significantly refined the direction of our investigation, and the team is now working with a much clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding this death.”

Officers are particularly focused on tracing the man’s activities over the past two weeks and are appealing to anyone who may have seen or spoken with him during that time to come forward.

Police would like to reassure the public that previously circulated information regarding firearms at the address was inaccurate. The deceased was a lawful and enthusiastic collector of air guns, which were stored appropriately and pose no concern to public safety.

There is still a significant amount of work to do, and the investigation team remains keen to hear from anyone who may have information that could assist. Even small details may prove crucial.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Police on 105, or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111. Please quote file number 251004/7850.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries

A pair of Gisborne fishers are likely to face prosecution after they were found with 157 undersize p??ua.

Fishery officers stopped the pair this week while doing catch inspections at Waihau beach, also known as Loisels beach, about 40 kilometres north of Gisborne.

“All p??ua recovered was undersize with the smallest at 60mm ??? less than half the legal size of 125mm,” says Fisheries New Zealand district manager Gisborne, Whakat??ne, and Central, Jordan Cooper.

“Our fishery officers patrol a large coastal area and with summer on the way and more people expected to be fishing you can expect to regularly see us along the coasts and beaches.

“The daily limit per person is 5 p??ua. This is in place to ensure sustainability. People who take more than their share are stealing from us all.

“The rules are there for a reason ??? to keep our shared fisheries sustainable into the future and when we find evidence of these rules being deliberately broken, we will take action,” Ms Cooper says.

MPI encourages people to report suspected illegal activity through the ministry’s 0800 4 POACHER number (0800 476 224)

Download the free NZ Fishing Rules Mobile App for the latest rules in the area you intend to fish, including areas that are closed and gear restrictions for fishing.

NZ Fishing Rules mobile app

For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 008 333 or email info@mpi.govt.nz 

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

Source: New Zealand Police

A mountain biker’s extreme training session took a dangerous turn when he became stranded in Northland bush, losing daylight and becoming hypothermic.

Northland Police SAR lead, Detective Sergeant Paul Overton, says the biker had set off from Kerikeri on Saturday.

“He was aiming to push his limits on the Department of Conservation tracks in the Waimamaku Range,” he says.

“Unbeknown to him, he missed a crucial turnoff and underestimated the terrain and weather conditions.”

The alarm was raised by the stranded mountain biker at about 8.30pm that night.

“Fortunately, the man had enough cell phone coverage and was able to speak with Police,” says Detective Sergeant Overton.

“We were able to get his exact location via GPS on the phone.”

The biker had intended to bunker down overnight and ride out the following day, however Police made the decision to rescue him as he only had light clothing, no shelter and the weather conditions were rapidly deteriorating.

A coordinated response was launched, involving Police and Far North LandSAR volunteers.

“The tracks proved extremely challenging, with the team taking 2.5 hours to walk just 5km to reach the lost person about midnight,” he says.

“By the time we reached him the biker was in a bad way.

He was soaking wet with hypothermia already setting in and struggling to walk.”

With helicopter extraction not possible due to poor weather, the team worked quickly to warm and feed the man before beginning a slow and steady walk out, which took another four hours.

“A farmer, whose property borders the ranges, helped bring the man the last few kilometres across paddocks to his home where he gave him and the rescue team hot drinks,” Detective Sergeant Overton says.

“The biker did the right thing by calling Police and staying put.”

Despite the successful outcome, the incident has prompted a warning Police of the importance of thorough preparation when undertaking activities in isolated or challenging environments, either on land or at sea.

“With summer approaching and longer days people want to get out and about and enjoy Northland’s great outdoors.

“People need to make sure they have adequate clothing, navigation tools, and know what the weather forecast is.

“They should also have some kind of communication device like a phone and in case of an emergency situations having an EPIRB could save a life.”

Detective Sergeant Overton expressed thanks to the farmer and the Far North LandSAR volunteers for their help.

“Police train together with the LandSAR volunteers for these scenarios,” he says.

“The teams know how to work together efficiently, making real-life rescues faster, safer, and more effective.”

ENDS.

Amanda Wieneke/NZ Police

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  09 October 2025

DOC bookings for the track from 28 October – 11 November will be cancelled and refunded. Hikers beyond those dates will be advised as soon as possible if further delays are likely.

DOC Operations Director Aaron Fleming says significant snow and rain throughout September have caused large avalanches on the Milford Track changing watercourses, damaging bridge footings and track infrastructure, and covering sections with ice and rock debris.

“Because of ongoing avalanche hazards, our team haven’t been able to get onto the track to fully assess the damage and begin repairs,” says Aaron.

“Safety of our staff and the public is our number one priority, and with wintry conditions persisting here in the South we’ve made the call to delay the opening now, to give those booked as much notice as possible.

“Staff will begin the repair work once conditions improve and the debris melts enough to allow safe access.”

Avalanche conditions and other weather disruptions can occur at any time of the year and travel insurance is recommended for all hikers.

“The Milford Track traverses through the heart of Fiordland National Park. It’s a spectacular place for naturing, but it can be an unforgiving place when it comes to the weather. On average, it receives between 7-8 m of rainfall a year, making it one of the wettest places in the world.

“We know this delay will be disappointing for those booked but safety is at the heart of our decision.”

DOC plans to reopen the track on 11 November 2025, weather conditions and repairs permitting. At this stage, the Routeburn and Kepler are not affected, and have later opening dates.

There are plenty of fantastic alternative tracks across the region to explore. Hikers are encouraged to reach out to a DOC Visitor Centre for the latest in weather and track conditions and check the DOC website for trip inspiration.

People should always check forecasts, pack extra warm and weather appropriate gear and be prepared for all conditions, at any time of year.

Hikers impacted by the closure will be contacted by the DOC booking team.

Background information

The Milford Track is the three-night four-day hike through Fiordland National Park. During the summer Great Walk season, bookings are essential.

Contact

Source: New Zealand Police

A specialist scene examination is continuing at a property in West Auckland today, following a suspicious fire this morning.

Police arrived at the address in Colwill Road, Massey at about 5.30am to execute two search warrants and upon Police approach one of the properties erupted in fire.

Detective Inspector Albie Alexander, of National Organised Crime Group, says Police believe the house may have been deliberately set on fire.

“It was one of two properties of interest suspected of involvement in manufacturing  drugs. 

“Members of the National Organised Crime Group Clan lab investigations team, supported by the Armed Offenders Squad, Clan lab response team and FENZ, were in attendance to execute the warrant.

“However, upon Police arrival it’s believed one of the occupants deliberately set fire to the property.”

Detective Inspector Alexander says FENZ and PHF Science are assisting with detailed examinations of the properties, and so far have located early signs of drug manufacturing at the properties.

“Careful planning is undertaken before an operation of this nature and taps into expertise that helps minimise risk to staff involved.

Safety is at the forefront of our planning.

“Today, all the planning paid off. 

“There is still a lot of work to do but we are satisfied with today’s result.”

Four people, aged 39-54, were removed from the properties.

One person was transported to hospital in a moderate condition after sustaining a dog bite and burns to their hands and feet.

A 54-year-old man has been charged with arson, producing/manufacturing methamphetamine, injuring a Police dog and resisting Police.

A bedside hearing will be held at a later date.

The Police dog has not sustained any long term effects from this morning’s incident.

As the matter is before the court, Police are limited in providing further comment. 

ENDS.

Nicole Bremner/NZ Police 

Source: New Zealand Police

To be attributed to Detective Inspector Martin James:

As the investigation into the fatal stabbing of Kaea Karauria continues, Hawke’s Bay Police have today arrested another person.

A 17-year-old male was arrested in Napier this morning and has been charged with theft and demands with menace.

He is scheduled to appear in Napier Youth Court on 15 October.

This has been a complex investigation. Despite a number of arrests already, we are continuing to follow up on all information received, to ensure that all those involved – either directly or indirectly – are held to account.

We are very grateful to those people in our community who have done the right thing and provided information to help us bring justice for Kaea’s whānau. 

Anyone with information who has not yet spoken to us is urged to call 105, or make a report online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking “Update Report”.

Please quote the file number 250511/1317 in all reports.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

Source: New Zealand Government

Residents of the Chatham Islands now have access to permanent ultrasound services at the Chatham Islands Health Centre, marking a major step forward in rural healthcare delivery, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“This is a significant milestone for the Chatham Islands community, improving access to both routine and emergency diagnostic care. It will also support visiting specialists, helping them deliver more comprehensive care during their time on the islands,” Mr Brown says. 

“Until now, residents had to travel long distances to the mainland for basic diagnostic services. With this new technology, we’re improving access to early diagnosis and bringing care closer to home, while saving time and reducing costs for patients.

“The system enables routine scans for conditions such as gallstones, bladder issues, and deep vein thrombosis, performed by local staff with remote guidance from sonographers and doctors at Christchurch Hospital. This allows timely assessments and follow-up care without the disruption and expense of travel.

“In urgent cases, scan images are live streamed to Christchurch, allowing medical teams to confirm diagnoses and prepare for patient transfers. This ensures continuity of care and better treatment planning before the patient even arrives.”

A successful live trial was conducted yesterday with ICU and radiology teams in Christchurch in a simulated clinical environment. The service is expected to expand as staff gain training and experience, including some maternity scans.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to strengthening rural health services and ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality care, no matter where they live. It’s a great example of how technology and collaboration can transform healthcare delivery in remote communities,” Mr Brown says.

Source: New Zealand Government

Today’s government financial statements for 2024/25 are the first to fully reflect decisions made by the current Government and show the progress being made in getting the country’s books back in order, Finance Minister Nicola Willis says.

“These are actual numbers, not forecasts. They show that:

• as a share of GDP, core Crown expenses fell from 33.1 per cent in 2023/24 to 32.5 per cent in 2024/25
• net core Crown debt remained steady at 41.8 per cent of GDP, after rising every year for the previous five years
• the headline operating balance measure, OBEGALx, remained steady at a deficit of 2.1% of GDP, coming in $900 million better than was forecast at the time of the Budget.

“This progress reflects the Government’s ongoing work to restore fiscal discipline with cumulative savings of around $44 billion being delivered over the Government’s first two Budgets.

“These savings enabled the Government to increase investment in health, education, police and defence at the same time as delivering tax relief and establishing Investment Boost.

“Fiscal discipline will continue with Budget forecasts showing government spending dropping to 30.9 per cent of GDP by 2028/29,” Nicola Willis says.

“The Government has resisted calls for sharper reductions in expenditure because international evidence is that reducing deficits is best done over the course of several years.  

“In dollar terms Crown spending increased $2.7 billion in the just completed financial year. This compares with an increase of $11.4 billion the previous year. 

“The increased expenditure in 2024/25 was driven by a $2.9 billion increase in superannuation and welfare costs that was partially offset by declines in other areas.”

The Government’s priorities for next year’s Budget will be set out in the Budget Policy Statement on 16 December. It will be released at the same time as the Treasury’s Half Year Economic and Fiscal Update.

Source: New Zealand Police

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, members of the police executive and wing patron Former Deputy Police Commissioner Wally Haumaha – Te Arawa, Tainui, Mataatua, ONZM and QSM congratulated the 77 graduating constables from Wing 388 this morning. 
Families and friends watched as the newly attested police officers marched out at Te Rauparaha Arena, Porirua. The celebration acknowledged the successful completion of their initial 20-week training course at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC). 

The top award winner for wing 388, Constable Hayden McNulty not only took the top honours, but was also awarded the Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award.

The biggest takeaway from training in my opinion is the new connections I have made and pieces of advice I have taken from every other member of my wing.” 

Constable McNulty starts his career in Counties Manukau.

The Leadership Award Winner, Constable Kate Kersten, addressed the wing after attestation. She’s thrilled with her success and heads to Southern District.

“My advice is jump into the deep end and get out of your comfort zone. Fully embrace all the challenges, you will grow so much as a person.”

Patron’s award winner Constable Chantal Willliams is heading to Central District after graduation.

“The lifelong friendships I made at college were one of my many highlights. They showed me that true strength comes from working together and supporting each other to be our best.”

Deployment:
The new constables will start their first day of duty in their Police districts on the week beginning Monday 20 October 2025 and will continue their training on the job as probationary constables.
Tāmaki Makaurau a total of 24 and broken down into the three districts: Auckland City 5, Waitematā 7, Counties Manukau 12, Waikato 7, Bay of Plenty 6, Eastern 1, Central 5, Wellington 8, Canterbury 7, Southern 15.

All Awards: 
Minister’s Award recognising top recruit Constable Hayden McNulty posted to Counties Manukau District.  Constable McNulty also receives the Physical Training and Defensive Tactics Award.

Commissioner’s Award for Leadership: Constable Kate Kersten posted to Southern District.

Patron’s Award for second top student: Constable Chantal Williams posted to Central District.

Firearms Award: Constable Nick Winter posted to Counties Manukau District.

Driver Training and Road Policing Award: Constable Alex King posted to Waikato District.

Demographics:
27.3 percent are female, 72.7 percent are male. New Zealand European make up 67.5 percent of the wing, with Māori 10.4 percent, Pasifika 2.6 percent, Asian 15.6 percent, LAAM 3.9 percent.

Wing Patron:
Retired Deputy Commissioner Wallace (Wally) Haumaha (Te Arawa and Ngāti Ngāraranui) has been an outstanding leader in Police across his 40 years of service and his long stewardship of Police’s Māori, Pacific & Ethnic Services. During this time, from 1984 to 2024, he was instrumental in leading a cultural shift in policing to respond to New Zealand’s increasingly ethnically diverse communities. Wally is held in high regard by Māori leaders nationwide, and by Pacific and Ethnic leaders, many of whom he brought together as advisors to the Commissioners of Police he worked under. Wally has been the architect of a model of policing that has allowed Police to think more creatively about the decisions they make when coming into contact with New Zealanders in the course of their duties. Wally played a leading role in developing Police strategies and in many high-profile events, such as the Foreshore and Seabed hikoi in 2004, and the responses to the 2011 Canterbury earthquakes, 2019 terror attack, Whakaari/White Island tragedy, Ihumatao, COVID iwi checkpoints and the Parliament occupation. He responded to opportunities, within Police and alongside community leaders, to achieve social, health and economic benefits. A prime example was establishing alternative resolution pathways to justice via Te Pae Oranga, a programme that has provided excellent results to reduce demand on the criminal justice system. 
Wally was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal in 1997 for service to the community and was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2017 for services to NZ Police and Māori, Pacific and ethnic communities. Since retiring, Wally has taken on a number of roles, with his latest role as Chair of the Te Arawa Lakes Trust. 

END

Watch out for our Ten One story coming soon with more images and stories.
If you’re interested in joining police check out newcops.govt.nz

Issued by Police Media Centre
 

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government is strengthening the children’s system to protect against and better respond to child harm. 

Multiple agencies have been working on a response to the 14 recommendations of the Dame Karen Poutasi Review since 2022, but until now not all findings had been accepted. 

“Today, I’m pleased to announce the Government has accepted all the review’s recommendations and is committing to an approach focused on the safety of children,” Child Poverty Reduction Minister Louise Upston says.

“This decision marks a clear line that child safety comes first. Every child in New Zealand deserves to feel safe and secure. 

“It’s clear from the Poutasi Review, as well as previous children’s system reviews, that multiple layers of government systems and processes needed to be improved to put children first. 

“The level of child abuse in New Zealand is unacceptable and the system to prevent it is overly complicated. We must do better for all our children.”

Child and Youth Ministers will oversee implementation of an integrated Government response, ensuring:

children are safer, with a focus on supporting children whose sole parent is incarcerated
the children’s system has a consistent approach to sharing information on, reporting on, and responding to suspected abuse.
ensuring information is shared where there are safety and wellbeing concerns. The Privacy Commissioner will work alongside agencies on this aspect
a particular focus on children whose sole parent is remanded in custody or sentenced to a term of imprisonment, to ensure they are visible throughout the system and their needs are being met.

“The Government’s response to two recommendations has already been completed, while others are underway. Today’s announcement sets out a direction of travel for implementing all recommendations effectively.

“The Government also welcomes and accepts the work the Independent Children’s Monitor will do in monitoring this implementation.

“Given the complexities and scale of the changes required, Cabinet has agreed to a staged approach.   This includes: 

ensuring information is shared where there are safety and wellbeing concerns. The Privacy Commissioner will work alongside agencies on this aspect
a particular focus on children whose sole parent is remanded in custody or sentenced to a term of imprisonment, to ensure they are visible throughout the system and their needs are being met.

“Work will start on the design of a mandatory reporting regime, with a staged approach to maximise child safety while mitigating risk,” Louise Upston says.

“This will begin with mandatory training for designated workforces to ensure people working in the system clearly know how to identify and report child abuse while also sequencing further action to build system capacity.

“We know Government agencies need the right settings in place to work effectively with families and whānau, schools, iwi/Māori and wider communities to intervene when children are suffering.

“Children’s workers care deeply and already have child safety as their highest priority. This is about adding levers and creating overlapping safety nets to ensure no child is invisible when help is needed.”

Agencies will now undertake further work, including detailed policy analysis and service design.   Cabinet is expected to consider further decisions before the end of the year.