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Weekend weather: Soggy days ahead in North Island

Source: Radio New Zealand

123RF

You may need to keep your raincoats handy as the warm weather the North Island is experiencing may take a turn this weekend.

A low-pressure system is lining up a soggy weekend, bringing warm, humid air and the risk of heavy rain, especially for parts of the North Island still recovering after January’s floods.

MetService meteorologist, Mmathapelo Makgabutlane told Morning Report the next few days will be warm and humid for the North Island.

Makgabutlane said there are a couple of weather systems on the way this weekend.

On Friday, a front is expected to move across the South Island, bringing a period of heavy rain and strong winds.

However, it’s the weather system moving onto the North Island on Saturday that Makgabutlane said was the one of interest.

A trough over the northern Tasman Sea is likely to move onto the North Island, bringing very humid conditions with scattered showers and possible thunderstorms on Saturday through to Monday.

“The two main things to look out for with the system is that intensification. How deep that low-pressure system is will be one thing that tells us how strong or how much rain we will see,” Makgabutlane said.

“The other thing is the location of that weather system. So, if it forms a couple of hundred kilometres to to the east of us, [it’s] probably going to be a lovely weekend for most of us, but even if it forms just a little bit closer to us, then we could be in for quite a wet weekend.”

As things stand, it does look like it will be a wet couple of days ahead, she said.

At this point, the areas that look the most likely to bear the brunt of the weather are most of the North Island on Saturday, and the lower and eastern parts of the North Island on Sunday and into Monday.

“Over the next coming days, I would say certainly keep an eye out for those [weather] watches because they do look likely,” Makgabutlane said.

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

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Name suppression continues for teen charged with murder of elderly woman in Burnham

Source: Radio New Zealand

The woman was found dead at a Burnham home in January. RNZ/Nathan Mckinnon

A man charged with murdering an elderly woman and attacking two family members at a rural Canterbury property is yet to enter a plea.

The woman’s body was found at a home in on Burnham School Rd, Burnham last month.

The 19-year-old, whose identity remains suppressed, appeared at the High Court at Christchurch on Thursday morning.

His next appearance would be in April.

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

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Black Ferns to play in Sacrementon and Kansas City

Source: Radio New Zealand

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe of New Zealand scores a try against the USA Eagles Women. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

The remaining two fixtures of the Pacific Four Series have been revealed by hosts USA Rugby, with the Black Ferns playing matches in Sacramento and Kansas City.

The Black Ferns’ schedule will start against the US at Heart Health Park on Sunday, 12 April at 11.00am NZT.

Kansas City will then host the Black Ferns clash with Canada on Saturday, 18 April at 10:15am NZT.

The Black Ferns last played the US last year in Auckland with the hosts winning 79-14 on their way to winning the Pacific Four Title.

Jorja Miller in action for the Black Ferns against the USA women. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz

Canada beat the Black Ferns 34-19 in last year’s World Cup semi-finals, with the two teams drawing 27-27 in the 2025 Pacific Four series.

New Zealand Rugby general manager of professional rugby and performance Chris Lendrum said it’s a great opportunity for the Black Ferns to showcase their talent in front of new audiences.

“The United States is an important market for rugby, as we build toward the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033.

“The Pacific Four Series is a chance for the Black Ferns to inspire and connect with other sports fans, through fast-paced, dynamic and entertaining rugby.”

USA Rugby boss Bill Goren said he was excited to bring the world-class tournament and teams to the US fanbase.

“With the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2033 now one year closer, these multi-match events act as building blocks towards our goal of record success in 2033.

“Last year was a historic year for women’s rugby, we’re ready to continue that momentum this spring with a strong collective of host cities, partners and players.”

The Black Ferns will end their Pacific Four Series run when they meet the Wallaroos in a historic match at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Anzac Day as previously announced.

Black Ferns Pacific Four Series 2026 Schedule:

Black Ferns v USA

Saturday, April 11, 4.00pm PT (Sunday, April 12, 11.00am NZT) kick-off

Heart Health Park, Sacramento, California

Black Ferns v Canada

Friday, April 17, 5.15pm CT (Saturday, April 18, 10.15am NZT) kick-off

CPKC Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

Black Ferns v Australia

Saturday, April 25, 7.45pm AEST (9.45pm NZT) kick-off

Sunshine Coast Stadium

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

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Finance Minister Nicola Willis challenges Labour to keep Investment Boost policy if elected

Source: Radio New Zealand

Finance Minister Nicola Willis at the New Zealand Economic Forum. RNZ/Libby Kirkby-McLeod

Finance Minister Nicola Willis is challenging Labour to commit to keeping her Investment Boost policy if elected.

The centrepiece of last year’s Budget, the boost, allows businesses to deduct 20 percent of a new asset’s value from taxable income on top of normal depreciation.

When launched in May, it was expected to boost New Zealand’s GDP by 1 percent, wages by 1.5 percent and capital stock by 1.6 percent over the next 20 years.

Willis talked up the policy’s effects so far in a speech to the New Zealand Economic Forum in Hamilton on Thursday.

She said about 40 percent of firms investing in the next five years said the policy had increased their investment spending over the past 12 months, with 29 percent of those reporting a “moderate” increase and another 11 percent a “significant” increase.

The Economic Forum at the University of Waikato. RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod

Looking ahead, 49 percent planning to invest in the next five years were saying Investment Boost was positively influencing their plans, with 14 percent expecting a large investment.

“These are not theoretical ideas. These are real businesses making real decisions earlier, larger, more productively because their incentives have changed.

“That matters because capital deepening is how productivity rises and productivity growth is the only way we will grow wages sustainably over time.”

She said the policy would only work if businesses believed it would endure.

Labour’s finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“Firms do not invest in long-lived capital, plant, machinery and buildings if they think the tax rules may change at the change of an election.”

She called for Labour’s leader Chris Hipkins and his Finance spokesperson Barbara Edmonds to commit to not reversing the policy.

“Will they commit to retaining Investment Boost as a permanent fixture of our tax settings to unlock growth, or will it be sacrificed to fund higher spending? This government’s position is clear.

“I would put to you that those who say they are on the side of growth and productivity but would sacrifice this effective policy are speaking out of both sides of their mouth.”

Edmonds, who is set to speak to the forum on Thursday afternoon, has previously said the Investment Boost policy is overall good for business, but stopped short of committing to retain it.

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

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Piopiotahi Milford Sound experiencing record summer

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  12 February 2026

Market intelligence from Great South suggests the Chinese market, which has been slower to rebound since COVID, has swung strongly back this summer – particularly for Chinese New Year.

Great South General Manager Tourism and Events Mark Frood says there has been continued growth in FIT (free independent traveller) demand, meaning more rental cars and self-drive visitors than in recent years.

“Chinese New Year is longer than usual this year – a 9-day holiday period – which is spreading demand and sustaining higher volumes. Air capacity into Auckland from Chinese gateways is up 18 per cent for the Chinese New Year period, and Christchurch capacity is particularly strong, with China Southern having 29 per cent increase for summer December to March period,” Mark Frood says.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) is working alongside Great South, Milford Sound Tourism Limited (MSTL), and the Milford Road Alliance to look after Piopiotahi, support peak periods and promote safe travel.

“Located within a remote World Heritage Area with limited infrastructure, managing the peaks of Milford Sound’s visitation is key to protecting both the environment and the visitor experience,” says DOC Operations Manager John Lucas.

“Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, come well prepared, and uphold New Zealand’s Tiaki Promise by travelling safely and caring for the environment.

“The Milford Road is stunning but it can be slow, challenging and stressful to drive, particularly at peak times. Drivers should check weather and road conditions before setting out, allow extra travel and parking time, take care, and be considerate of others,” John Lucas says.

“With high traffic volumes putting pressure on the national park, taking a guided tour or coach is a great way to reduce your footprint, travel stress-free and enjoy the incredible scenery with insights from trained guides.

“Visitor facilities are kept to a minimum in this remote, natural location. People should be prepared to take out all they bring into the park including rubbish and ensure they use the available toilet facilities.

“These small acts of naturing help protect Piopiotahi so it can be enjoyed now and into the future.”

MSTL CEO Haylee Preston says the summer season has been exceptionally busy so far, with December day cruise passenger numbers up 12,117 (13%) and overall visitation six per cent higher than peak pre-COVID levels.

“Indications are that this could be Milford Sound’s busiest summer on record, although we won’t know for sure until the end of February,” Haylee Preston says.

“We’re expecting Chinese New Year to be another peak so MSTL will have extra parking attendants on the ground to help guide traffic and visitors.

“Visitors are advised onsite parking is limited and fills quickly. Those with cruise tour bookings should allow at least two hours to travel from Te Anau and 45 minutes for parking and walking to the terminal.”

DOC continues to work with Ngāi Tahu, community and key stakeholders to deliver short and long-term improvements for conservation and sustainable tourism on the Milford journey, building on recommendations from the Milford Opportunities Project.

Background information

For more information about tourism numbers and trends, visit Data Insights Southland Hub.

Advice for visitors – ‘Always be naturing’

We can all do our bit to take care of ourselves and the nature we enjoy, uphold New Zealand’s Tiaki Promise by preparing for your trip, travelling safely and caring for the environment.

Protect nature

Piopiotahi Milford Sound is a remote and environmentally sensitive area within Fiordland National Park with many rare and unique plants and animals.

  • Keep your distance and don’t feed wildlife.
  • Remove all rubbish from of the national park.
  • Plan comfort stops along the way. Public toilets are available at Knobs Flat and in Piopiotahi Milford Sound.
  • Leave dogs and other pets at home they pose a serious threat to precious wildlife and are not permitted in a national park, even in your vehicle.
  • Follow rules restricting drones, fires and vehicles.

Travel safely

Piopiotahi Milford Sound is situated at the end of a remote alpine road in a sensitive area of dynamic geology which exposes it to a range of natural hazards. It’s important all visitors plan and prepare for their visit.

Advice for drivers

Drive with care and be prepared for potential delays during peak periods.

  • Fill up with fuel before departing Te Anau.
  • Those with cruise bookings should allow at least 2 hours for the journey from Te Anau and 45 minutes to park and walk to the boat terminal.
  • Onsite parking is limited, and fills up quickly.
  • Be considerate of others and follow the guidance of staff and signage.

Find out more about how the Sustainable Destinations Piopiotahi Programme is progressing improvements on the Milford journey.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

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Kiwi snowboarder qualifies for halfpipe final

Source: Radio New Zealand

Cam Melville Ives of New Zealand during Snowboard Halfpipe Winter Olympic Games in Italy, 2026. www.photosport.nz

Wānaka snowboarder Cam Melville Ives has qualified for the final of the halfpipe competition at the Winter Olympics.

Melville Ives finished eighth in qualification, with Australian Scotty James leading the top 12 to progress from the 24 starters.

Melville Ives was happy with his first run, which included a frontside triple cork 1440 and scored 84.75, which put him into sixth place.

James, who finished second in this event at the last games and is the current world champion, scored the best run of the day with a 94.00.

The 19-year-old Kiwi then started his second run in eighth position but was unable to improve when he landed heavily from a jump and lost momentum.

He then had a nervous wait as the rest of the field completed their second runs, but held onto eighth place and a place in Saturday morning’s final.

“It’s definitely a high-level qualification everyone was getting after it for sure,” Melville Ives told Sky Sport afterwards.

“I just got to focus on riding clean and putting as run down.

“Hopefully I can land some sick runs in finals, I’m hyped, it’s going to be super fun.”

Melville Ives went into the Olympics on the back of a silver medal performance at the FIS World Cup in Switzerland.

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

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Skellerup posts record profit for first half

Source: Radio New Zealand

Skellerup makes products for water supplies and wastewater, foam for boats and roofing products.

Rubber goods manufacturer Skellerup has posted a record first half profit on the back of higher sales across the business.

Key numbers for the six months ended December compared with a year ago:

  • Net profit $28.9m vs $24.2m
  • Revenue $183.5m vs $165.3m
  • Pre-tax earnings $40.6m vs $35m
  • Forecast profit range $57-62m
  • Interim dividend 10 cents per share vs 9 cps

Skellerup chief executive Graham Leaming called its record half year result an “excellent” start to the year, with growth in all its key divisions.

“The growth in revenue and earnings was broad-based with the most notable contributions coming from the key dairy, potable and wastewater applications.”

He said the company had met increased demand, brought new products to market and coped with the imposition of tariffs.

The industrial division, which makes products for water supplies and wastewater, foam for boats and roofing products, had a strong lift in sales to Australia and the US, as well as improved margins.

The agriculture division, which provides rubber components for dairying as well as the well known gumboots, also sold well overseas.

The company gets about 80 percent of revenue from overseas, and close to 40 percent from US sales, but revamped sources of supply and manufacture to reduce the impact of the US tariffs.

Leaming said despite continuing global uncertainty the company had a strong pipeline of work, and was expecting a full year profit between $57-$62m, compared to last year’s $54.5m.

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

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Transmission Gully accelerating to 110km/h

Source: New Zealand Government

Transmission Gully has received the green light for a new 110 km/h speed limit for drivers travelling between Wellington and the Kāpiti Coast, says Transport Minister Chris Bishop.

The new speed limit will take effect from 12:01am on Monday, 16 February 2026.

“This change is part of a wider effort to fix the basics of our transport network and set it up for the future. We’re committed to providing state highways that help people get where they need to go quickly and safely,” says Mr Bishop.

“Transmission Gully is a critical transport link for Wellington and Kāpiti, carrying around 22,000 vehicles a day and providing a safe, modern, and resilient route between the regions.

“The road, as one of the previous National Government’s first Roads of National
Significance, was designed and built to support higher-speed travel, subject to meeting strict safety standards. Since opening in 2022, Transmission Gully has recorded low crash rates, with no deaths despite more than 150 barrier strikes. Safety features including two lanes in each direction and a flexible median barrier between opposing lanes help reduce the risk of death or serious injury in a crash.

“The new higher speed limit applies to the 27‑kilometre section of State Highway 1 between the Linden and Paekākāriki interchanges, which is currently posted at 100 km/h. Heavy vehicles and vehicles towing trailers will continue to have a 90 km/h limit.

“Public consultation on the proposed change took place in mid‑2025. Of the 2,061 submissions received, 92% supported raising the Transmission Gully limit to 110 km/h.

“I want to thank drivers for their patience over summer while essential maintenance and resurfacing work was completed. That work has helped bring the road to the point where a higher speed limit can be safely applied.

“Police will apply the same enforcement to 110km/h roads as any other part of the road network. Drivers can expect to see police patrols on New Zealand roads anywhere, at any time. Drivers should continue to drive to the conditions, free from impairment and distraction, and make sure everyone’s wearing their seatbelt.

“Although Raumati Straights was consulted on at the same time, due to constraints on this section of the corridor, including the rail line and proximity to Queen Elizabeth Park, the Raumati Straights were not built to the same design and safety standards as other sections of the Kāpiti Expressway. Technical assessments determined that this section did not meet the minimum safety and design requirements for a 110km/h speed limit.

“Increasing the speed limit on this section would require significant investment in safety improvements. This remains a possibility in the future, but it would depend on further scope development and funding decisions.”

Notes to editor:

 

  • NZTA will continue to monitor Raumati Straights and consider future improvements as part of wider planning for the State Highway 1 corridor.
  • NZTA will work closely with New Zealand Police on speed enforcement. Police will apply the same enforcement approach on Transmission Gully as they do on other 110 km/h roads, focusing on areas with the highest safety risks.
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Cyclone Gezani tears through Madagascar, kills at least 31

Source: Radio New Zealand

By Lovasoa Rabary, Reuters

An aerial view of the city of Toamasina. TSIKY SIKONINA

Fierce winds have left a trail of destruction in Madagascar as Tropical Cyclone Gezani hit the island, killing at least 31 people and leaving another four missing, the country’s disaster management office says.

Of the deaths, 29 were recorded in Toamasina, the impoverished Indian Ocean island nation’s second-largest city, and two in a neighbouring district, the National Bureau for Risk and Disaster Management (BNGRC) said in an updated report.

Residents in and around Toamasina described scenes of chaos as the cyclone made landfall late on Tuesday (US Time).

“I have never experienced winds this violent… The doors and windows are made of metal, but they are being violently shaken,” Harimanga Ranaivo said.

Gezani also left at least 36 people seriously injured. More than 2,740 residents were evacuated as a precaution after the cyclone struck coastal communities before moving inland.

The cyclone’s aftermath displaced another 6,870 people, while a total 250,406 were classified as disaster victims, the BNGRC said.

It was the second cyclone to hit Madagascar this year, 10 days after Tropical Cyclone Fytia killed 14 and displaced over 31,000 people, according to the UN’s humanitarian office.

A general view of the city of Toamasina, on the east coast of Madagascar, struck by Tropical Cyclone Gezani on February 11, 2026. TSIKY SIKONINA

Dangerous winds, rising sea levels

At its peak, Gezani unleashed sustained winds of about 185km (115 miles) per hour, with gusts surging to nearly 270km per hour – powerful enough to rip metal sheeting from rooftops and uproot large trees.

Ahead of the cyclone’s arrival, officials shuttered schools and rushed to prepare emergency shelters.

The BNGRC had warned earlier that rising sea levels in Toamasina were already flooding streets.

Homes collapsed under the pressure of the winds, roofs were torn away, walls crumbled and neighbourhoods were plunged into darkness as power lines snapped.

By Wednesday (US Time) morning, Madagascar’s meteorological service said Gezani had weakened to a moderate tropical storm and had moved westward inland, about 100 km north of the capital, Antananarivo.

“Gezani will cross the central highlands from east to west today, before moving out to sea into the Mozambique Channel this evening or tonight,” the service said.

– Reuters

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