NZ Engine

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is pleased to confirm that additional funding has been approved for Stage 2 of the State Highway 16 (SH16) Brigham Creek to Waimauku safety improvements project which runs between Brigham Creek interchange and Kumeū town centre.

These improvements will make this important link safer and more efficient for the people that use it and provide resilience within the wider Upper North Island state highway network. 

Regional Manager Transport Services Stephen Collett acknowledges the importance of this project for the community, which has been reviewed in line with the Government Policy Statement on land transport 2024 and the 2024-27 National Land Transport Programme. 

“We really appreciate the communities’ patience as we have worked to revise costs for the project, which were approved by the NZTA Board this month. 

“This brings us one step closer towards construction and means we can now recommence landowner engagement and property acquisition, while finalising the design.”  

Key features for this stage include:  

• extra lanes between Brigham Creek and Taupaki roundabout from two lanes to four lanes (two in each direction) to make travelling along SH16 more efficient
• a new roundabout at the SH16/Coatesville Riverhead Highway intersection to help traffic flow better and make it safer to turn
• a shared use path for people who walk and cycle between Brigham Creek and Kumeū.

Stage 1 of the project, which runs from Huapai to Waimauku, is in the final phases of construction and is scheduled to be completed by December this year.

This work has included widening bridges and road shoulders and creating right turning bays at Joyce Adams Place and Fosters Road to provide people with safer turning options. 

The SH16 Improvements Project will improve safety and efficiency in the area which will improve the wider transport network’s effectiveness. Auckland Council, Auckland Transport and NZTA are currently investigating plans for the longer-term to address future growth, including in Auckland’s North West.

Supporting Growth – North-West Auckland(external link)

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  01 July 2025

The gecko was one of three females illegally taken and held in captivity until they were discovered during a Department of Conservation (DOC) investigation in 2022.

All three required life-saving surgery at Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University’s Wildbase Hospital to remove stuck eggs, and after successful recuperation, the trio were returned to their alpine home in November 2023.  

Last month, a nature watcher photographed a striking, bright green gecko on a tree in a West Coast conservation area and uploaded photos to iNaturalist NZ – Mātaki Taiao – a site where nature lovers share their observations.

The photo was spotted by the sharp-eyed New Zealand Herpetological Society president, Nick Harker, who recognised the unique markings along her back. A careful check with previous photos of the gecko confirmed her identity.

It was amazing to see the gecko alive and apparently well after her ordeal, says Nick Harker.

“She and two of her friends were stolen, smuggled to the North Island, kept in captivity and then had major surgery – which is a lot to go through.

“This gecko species is sensitive to changes in its environment and vulnerable to a range of threats, so we were delighted to see her alive.

“West Coast green geckos have fragmented populations and often live in isolated pockets, so every individual – and especially every female – is important.”

DOC Senior Technical Advisor Lynn Adams says the gecko sighting shows the power of citizen science in monitoring and identifying lizards.

“Green geckos live in trees and are highly camouflaged, making them difficult to see and monitor. We love it when people share their observations and photos, which in this case confirmed the survival of the repatriated gecko.

“Photos of lizards sent to us or posted to iNaturalist and other sites have helped identify new species and new populations we didn’t know about.”   

The photos show the gecko with wrinkled flanks – a sign she may have given birth although this can’t be confirmed. In one photo, taken from below, you can see the faint scar from her surgery.  

The threatened West Coast green gecko (Naultinus tuberculatus) may only breed every two to three years, producing just one or two young.

New Zealand has an incredible diversity of gecko and skink species – all of which are found only here and nowhere else in the world. There are 126 species and counting as new species are still being discovered.  

Introduced predators such as mice, rats, stoats, cats and even wasps pose a threat to all lizards.

People can report lizard sightings to DOC at herpetofauna@doc.govt.nz.

The taking of lizards is an offence under the Wildlife Act and carries penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to $100,000. People can help prevent lizard smuggling by reporting suspicious activities to our 24-hour hotline, 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468).

Background information

For information on how to identify and report lizards see: Amphibian and Reptile Distribution Scheme

These sites can help identify lizards: New Zealand Herpetological Society and iNaturalistNZ

Wildbase website

Contact

Source: New Zealand Government

Ferry Holdings has reached agreement with CentrePort, Port Marlborough and KiwiRail on core infrastructure scope, Rail Minister Winston Peters announced today.
The agreements set out the scope of physical work and equipment to be delivered by 2029 when two new ferries arrive, with port and KiwiRail agreements to be entered later this year to confirm the investment splits between Ferry Holdings and each other company and other commercial terms.
“This is not our first regatta, as this no-nonsense infrastructure focus is what was supposed to happen in 2020 until poor management and a lack of oversight allowed iReX to blow out. We will save the taxpayer billions through our disciplined approach.
“The agreements entered into effectively mean the ports and KiwiRail are in, boots and all, with Cabinet’s preferred low-cost option.
“The focus of the agreements is primarily about the marine infrastructure. In Picton, new wharves and linkspans will be built while in Wellington we will be maximising the use of the existing Aratere infrastructure by modifying and strengthening the existing wharf to suit new ferries for the next 30 years and building a new linkspan.
“The ports and KiwiRail have agreed to minimal scope improvements to the yards, avoiding much of the costly scope creep which occurred under iReX which sought to lift the yards by metres and then complete required reconfigurations. Instead, perfectly good yards will continue to serve us as they have for decades.
“We are pleased to confirm for the locals in Picton that the Dublin Street overbridge will be built – ridding the town of the blocked streets it will experience when freight-laden trains arrive at the port. The road and rail will be grade separated before 2029 as a safety and an efficiency improvement for road and rail.
“The teams at Ferry Holdings, CentrePort, Port Marlborough and KiwiRail are doing an outstanding job in the service of the taxpayer, and we thank them for it,” Mr Peters says.
Ferry Holdings have also released their first Statement of Performance Expectations and Statement of Intent in line with Ministers expectations, outlining the jobs ahead to 2029.
 
Additional information: 
Major components of the Wellington infrastructure:

Reuse existing wharf, extending this by the minimal amount necessary to accommodate the new, larger ships.
Reuse passenger and commercial vehicle facilities, as well as the terminal building.
Reuse as much of the rail yard as possible.
Deliver a new linkspan and connecting infrastructure to ensure a safe, resilient connection between the ship and the shore.

Major components of the Picton infrastructure:

Reuse passenger and commercial vehicle facilities, as well as the terminal building.
Reuse as much of the rail yard as possible.
Relocate the existing passenger walkway and reuse this.
Deliver a new wharf to support the new, larger ships.
Deliver a new linkspan and connecting infrastructure to ensure a safe, resilient connection between the ship and the shore.
A new overbridge at Dublin Street.

Ferry Holdings – Statement of Intent (SOI) and Statement of Performance Expectations (SPE)

SOI – 5 March 2025 – 31 December 2029 outlines the four-year plans for the Ferry Holdings programme of work.
SPE – 5 March 2025 – 30 June 2026 outlines the annual plan for the Ferry Holdings programme of work.
These documents are available on ferryholdings.co.nz (from the time of the announcement).

Ship Procurement Process

Ferry Holdings is managing a closed tender procurement process with six shipyards. There is no update on the process.
The shipyards are competing on price and quality and Ferry Holdings has reported strong engagement by all six shipyards.
After full assessment of proposals, Ferry Holdings will narrow the list of shipyards through a final tender stage.
Ferry Holdings will then make a recommendation to shareholding Ministers before awarding a contract later this year.

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister with responsibility for Rural Health and Minister for Mental Health Matt Doocey and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Patterson will be coming to Wānaka today as part of the rural health roadshow happening across the country.
“The rural health roadshow is an opportunity for me to hear direct feedback from the public and those who are working in rural health. The roadshow is also a great opportunity to hear how well the Rural Health Strategy is being implemented,” Mr Doocey says.
“The roadshow kicked off in Levin followed by Wairoa. It is excellent to now be in Wānaka for what is shaping up to be the biggest turnout event yet. I look forward to talking with the local community and our hardworking rural health staff today.”
“I’m looking forward to meeting with people in Wānaka and hearing firsthand about their experiences with healthcare in their community.  It’s important we understand both the challenges and the opportunities so we can work together to improve access and outcomes in the rural setting,” Minister for Rural Communities Mark Patterson says.
“The roadshow builds on initiatives already in train to improve rural health care services,” Mr Doocey says.
“Budget 2025 delivered for Kiwis living in rural and remote communities. The Government is investing $164 million over four years to strengthen urgent and after hours care nationwide, meaning 98 per cent of Kiwis will be able to access these services within one hour’s drive of their home.
“We are also improving access to primary care including access to 24/7 digital care, training more new doctors and investing to increase the number of nurses in primary care.
“To improve access to mental health support I was pleased that the Government recently announced $3 million over four years, that will help improve rural communities’ access to mental health support. The Government is also doubling its investment in the Rural Wellbeing Fund to $4 million over the next four years.”
“It is important that the Government continues the conversation with rural communities on how rural health care services can be improved, which is exactly the aim today in Wānaka.
“Whilst I was at Fieldays last month I heard loud and clear that access to healthcare is one of the biggest concerns for people living in rural and remote communities. This Government is committed to improving and increasing their access to support.” 

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister David Seymour has empowered Pharmac and Medsafe to explore the utilisation of artificial intelligence (AI) to speed up their processes. 

“Faster access to medicines has always been a priority of mine. For many New Zealanders, pharmaceuticals are life or death, or the difference between a life of pain and suffering or living freely,” Mr Seymour says.

“I believe that technology absorption greatly increases productivity and see Al playing a role in a more efficient Pharmac and Medsafe.

“Finding efficiencies in medicine assessment processes means patients can access the treatments they need faster.

“I wrote to Medsafe about the adoption of AI in their processes to speed up assessments. I wanted to see if the use of AI could mean spending less time on tedious, repetitive tasks that often slow down the assessment process.

“I am very encoUraged by Medsafe’s response (attached). This is something that they have welcomed and recognise could reduce assessment times. 

Some of the potential uses of AI in future within medicine regulation include: 

• streamlining our assessment report generation allowing Medsafe to more quickly provide information in the public domain;
• assisting with side effect profiles and trend assessments;
• assisting with large information dossier assessments as part of the analysis required for decision making on new medicine applications.

“I have also offered my support to Pharmac in empowering it to use Al in its work. I see this being a matter of priority in Pharmac’s new data and digital strategy. I have requested information on where some of the potential future uses of Al in Pharmac,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Pharmac have responded (attached) and will be exploring opportunities for AI to increase medicines access. I look forward to continuing this discussion with them. 

“We’re committed to ensuring that the regulatory system for pharmaceuticals is not unreasonably holding back access. It will lead to more Kiwis being able to access the medicines they need to live a fulfilling life.”

Source: New Zealand Government

Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Dr Shane Reti says today marks a major milestone for New Zealand’s science and innovation sector with the launch of three new science organisations designed to unlock innovation, drive economic growth, and improve the lives of hardworking Kiwis. 
“Science, innovation and technology are the engine rooms of a productive economy and our Government is committed to powering up our scientists and innovators to deliver for New Zealanders,” says Dr Reti. 
“From today, six Crown Research Institutes will merge to form two new entities: the Bioeconomy Science Institute and the Earth Science Institute. Meanwhile, ESR will refocus its mission to become the Public Health and Forensic Science Institute.
“These changes are about sharpening our focus and lifting performance. By bringing together complementary research skills and infrastructure, we’re enabling greater collaboration, better alignment with Government priorities, and stronger commercial outcomes.
“These new organisations will be set up to deliver real-world value, creating jobs, boosting exports, and helping New Zealand compete globally.”
The new institutes will remain Crown companies, but with a renewed mandate to deliver economic benefits for New Zealand. 
“This reform is a practical step to ensure our science sector is agile, responsive, and focused on outcomes that matter – jobs, growth and innovation. We’re backing our scientists to turn ideas into impact, and to help New Zealand lead in areas like biotechnology, climate resilience, and public health,” says Dr Reti.
Dr Reti also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Chairs and Board members of the seven Crown Research Institutes, whose leadership has laid the groundwork for this new chapter. He extended thanks to the dedicated staff across the institutes, whose work continues to make a meaningful difference to New Zealand’s economy and communities.
“This Government is committed to building a science system that delivers results. These reforms are about unlocking the full potential of our research sector to fuel economic growth, drive innovation, and secure a more prosperous future for all New Zealanders,” Dr Reti says. 

Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister David Seymour says the Government is delivering on its promise to give Kiwis access to more treatments, with Wegovy now available via prescription for weight loss.

Medsafe made the decision to approve Wegovy in April. Stock has now arrived and is ready to be sold to Kiwis who are prescribed the medicine for weight loss.

“More than two in three adults and nearly one-third of children in New Zealand live with obesity or are overweight. This puts a major strain on the health system and can lead to serious health problems down the track. We’re giving Kiwis access to another tool to deal with this problem,” says Mr Seymour. 

“The combined impact of these conditions is significant, with reports estimating the cost of excess weight in New Zealand as being between $4-9 billion per year. One of the common implications of obesity is cardiovascular disease, which costs the country approximately $3.3 billion per year.

“Treating obesity early reduces the risk of developing serious conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and liver disease.

Wegovy is currently unfunded so patients will pay for the treatment. Any future decisions around funding are for Pharmac and the supplier, and completely independent of the Minister.

“These drugs are making an enormous difference in other countries. I hope that they can be a game-changer for a lot of people in New Zealand now as well,” says Mr Seymour.

Source: Press Release Service

Headline: Conscious Integration: The Brian Berneman Story, launched globally 3rd July

The world premiere of Conscious Integration: The Brian Berneman Story, a heartfelt documentary that invites viewers into Brian’s inspiring journey from neuroscience to visionary wellness leadership. The film will launch globally with in-person screenings on July 3, 2025.

The post Conscious Integration: The Brian Berneman Story, launched globally 3rd July first appeared on PR.co.nz.

Source: New Zealand Police

Police have now charged a man in relation to a homicide in Ōtāhuhu on Sunday night.

Emergency services were called to a Beatty Street property at about 8.30pm following a report of a person being seriously injured.

A man was transported to hospital but later died of his injuries.

Detective Inspector Karen Bright, of Counties Manukau CIB, says a man was taken into custody yesterday afternoon and Police are not seeking anyone else in relation to the investigation.

“A 31-year-old man has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and will appear in Manukau District Court today.

“This is a great result and Police haven’t ruled out the possibility of further charges.”

Detective Inspector Bright says the investigation remains ongoing and thanked those who had come forward to speak with Police.

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

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealanders can now access trusted primary healthcare around the clock, no matter where they are in the country, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.  

“A new 24/7 digital health service, launched today, means people can have virtual consultations with New Zealand-registered doctors and nurses, anytime, anywhere,” Mr Brown says.  

“This is about making sure Kiwis can get the medical help they need when they need it, especially when they can’t get a timely appointment with their regular general practitioner (GP), or outside normal clinic hours.”  

The service connects patients to clinicians through trusted providers using secure digital technology. Doctors and nurse practitioners can assess symptoms, diagnose conditions, prescribe medications, and provide referrals – all from wherever the patient is. 

Since its pilot launch in May, nearly 4,500 New Zealanders have already accessed the digital service, which is now fully available to the public.

“This means people can receive professional medical advice and treatment when they need it – no matter where they are or what time it is, including: 

• A mother with a sick child in the middle of the night
• Someone waking up with a sudden rash on a public holiday
• A farmer in rural New Zealand needing help after hours
• A family on holiday in a different part of the country
• Someone not enrolled with a local GP. 

“It also helps ease pressure on emergency departments by treating non-urgent issues earlier and in the right setting. 

“This digital service is giving people greater access to the care they need, but does not replace the critical role of GPs, who are responsible for their patients’ continuity of care. It ensures care is available when and where it’s needed, helping bridge the gap when traditional access to a GP isn’t possible. 

“That’s why providers will be required to send clinical notes back to a patient’s GP after an appointment. This ensures safe, consistent treatment and strengthens follow-up care, and is about delivering connected care New Zealanders can trust. 

“At the same time, we’re backing GPs with a record up to 14 per cent funding boost this year to support the critical work they do in our communities. 

“Our Government is focused on ensuring all New Zealanders have access to timely, quality healthcare. That includes investing in digital solutions to make primary care more responsive and connected,” Mr Brown says.  

The 24/7 online GP service is now live at info.health.nz/onlinegp, with full details on pricing and how to access care through approved providers, including their operating hours.