NZ Engine

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  03 September 2025

The conifer removal is part of the Mautohe Cathedral Cove Sustainability Project reinstating walking access to the picturesque Coromandel beach. This long-term initiative is focused on safeguarding the cultural and environmental values of this iconic site and enhancing the visitor experience.

Local arborists have been on site since Monday (1 September), removing the pinus pinaster trees, more commonly known as maritime pine or cluster pine.

Michael Sparrow, DOC’s Mautohe Cathedral Cove Sustainability Project Manager says the exotic trees can spread fast, threatening this stunning landscape and crowding out native vegetation.

“By removing these conifers, we give native plants and trees a better chance to flourish along the Hahei Beach Short Walk and help enhance the mauri of the area.

“The largest of these conifers has a trunk girth of a metre and is about 35m tall. Mature trees release masses of windblown seeds. If not removed, they’ll take hold here and can spread widely, becoming extremely costly to control.”

The conifer removal follows a successful community planting day at nearby Waimata Gemstone Bay. The planting – led by Destination Hauraki Coromandel as part of its Good For Your Soul initiative – saw 300 native trees planted by members of Ngāti Hei, community members, and staff from local public sector agencies.

“This planting ensures Mautohe Cathedral Cove can be enjoyed now and safeguarded for future generations,” says Michael.

“What makes it special is that it’s a collective effort – iwi, residents, businesses, visitors, and tourism operators are all contributing.”

The conifer removal comes during Conservation Week 2025 and the launch of DOC’s Always Be Naturing campaign, which encourages New Zealanders to take action for nature.

“It’s fantastic this community values and takes action to care for and enhance this incredible place,” says Michael.

“There are simple and easy ways we can all do our bit for nature. Visit the Get involved section of the DOC website to see what you can do today.”

An estimated two million hectares of New Zealand is affected by wilding conifers. Uncontrolled infestations spread at 5% per year (approx. 90,000ha/year). Without any control they will form dense forests that have environmental consequences on our native ecosystems, use up scarce water, and alter iconic landscapes.

The arborists’ work is expected to be concluded on Friday (5 September). The wood from the felling will be broken down at site and left to rot down naturally.

Contact

Source: New Zealand Police

As New Zealand makes its way out of winter, Police are reminding people to take the right equipment when going tramping and hunting.

“We’re lucky to have great access to the outdoors, across the country,” says Detective Sergeant Alex Simister.

“But we need people to make sure when they’re heading into the bush, they’re doing it safely.

“Take the right gear, let someone know your return time and please take a beacon or communication device.

“Beacons are an essential piece of gear and can be rented for as little as ten dollars.”

Some new smart phones also have the capability to connect with satellites, giving them service in remote locations.

This feature does need to be set up beforehand.

“With the weather improving we’re expecting to see an increase in trampers and hunters – we don’t want anyone’s trip ending in tragedy.

“Even experienced people can end up in situations where they need help.”

If you are going outdoors, no matter if it is hiking, hunting, or climbing, please follow the five simple steps of the Land Safety Code,

1. Choose the right trip for you. Learn about the route and make sure you have the skills for it. It is important to choose a trip that suits everyone in your group. When you are looking at options, make sure to think about everyone’s fitness levels and experience in the outdoors.
2. Understand the weather. New Zealand weather can change fast. Check the forecast and change your plans if needed. Weather can make or break a trip. It is one of the most important things to consider when going into the outdoors.
3. Pack warm clothes and extra food. Prepare for bad weather and an unexpected night out. Any trip, even if it is short and easy, needs preparation. Packing the right things can make trips safer and more enjoyable.
4. Share your plans and take ways to get help. Telling a trusted person about your trip details and taking a personal locator beacon can save your life. We all want our trips to go as planned – but sometimes they don’t. If you get hurt or lost on your trip, how would you get help?
5. Take care of yourself and each other. Eat, drink, and rest, stick with your group and make decisions together. The best way to enjoy your experience in the outdoors and make it home safely is to look out for one another.

Distress beacons can be hired for as little as $10 from many Department of Conservation Visitor Centres, and outdoor tramping and hunting stores.

If you have purchased a beacon, make sure to register it at www.beacons.org.nz.

For more information on outdoor safety, helpful free resources and videos, head to Know Before You Go – AdventureSmart – NZ Search & Rescue Council | AdventureSmart.

More information on trip planning can be found at: Trip Planning — NZMSC.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre.

Source: New Zealand Government

Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey today launched New Zealand’s refreshed strategic approach to eating disorders, bringing a significant funding boost and valuable updates for Kiwis for the first time in over 16 years.

“Today’s announcement increases investment in eating disorder services by over $4 million each year. That’s a 20 percent increase which will bring the total investment in eating disorders services to over $23 million annually,” Mr Doocey says.

“Support for eating disorders is best provided using a full continuum of care for eating disorders across prevention, primary health care, early intervention and community services, along with specialist and inpatient services for people with the highest needs.

“The changes today bring about meaningful changes that will ensure the strategy remains fit for purpose and continues to meet the needs of our communities.”

The new funding package includes ongoing investment to:  

• Roll out peer support to all regional eating disorders services. 
• Create community-based support for families and carers. 
• Increase the capacity of specialist eating disorders services. 
• Expand prevention and early intervention support.  

“I am pleased to mark New Zealand’s Body Image and Eating Disorder Awareness Week with changes that will support New Zealanders navigating and battling eating disorders. The strategy sets out the actions we will take to support Kiwis, providing a roadmap and a strategic approach.

“Our mental health plan is working. We’re turning the corner on reducing wait times and increasing the mental health workforce. Recent data shows the frontline Health NZ mental health workforce has grown around 10 percent since we came into Government, and over 80 percent of people are being seen within three weeks for specialist services. 

“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: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  03 September 2025

Tunnel Beach Walk has been closed since October 2024 after a storm caused multiple large slips covering the track.

Acting Operations Manager for Coastal Otago Samantha Marsh says repairs will be done in two phases.

“Firstly, we are focussing on getting the track safely reopened for the summer by removing slip material, restoring the track surface, and opening existing drainage which was covered by the slip. Native planting to help stabilise the area will also get underway.”

After the busy summer season, more work to upgrade the water management on and around the track will be done, along with new seating and interpretation. This work will help protect the track into the future. The track may be closed for periods during this work.

“In the October storm, a single weather event caused multiple slips across the track. To keep people safe and ensure repairs last the distance, we needed a comprehensive engineering solution. This is especially important as we adapt to a changing environment where extreme rainfall events are expected to become more common.”

“From its inception the tunnel beach walk upgrade has been a project worked in collaboration with Ōtākou runaka, the Dunedin City Council, Aukaha, and other stakeholders. We’re looking forward to completing the track and fully realising the vision of the project.

“We know people love this walk, which is close to Dunedin and very scenic, and we thank them for their patience and understanding while a well thought through repair is completed.”

The first phase of repairs is expected to be completed in November.

Contact

Source: New Zealand Police

Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers has announced a new recruit wing will be starting at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) Auckland Campus on 9 February next year.

This will be the second group of recruits that will use the new facilities leased from Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University.

On 1 July we officially opened the RNZPC Auckland Campus, and we are already seeing the benefits from this facility for both senior courses and recruit training.

“There has been a lot of interest in another recruit wing in Auckland, so I’m pleased to announce this great news.

“Wing 390 is about halfway through their training now and the feedback we have had from them has been incredibly positive about their experience.

“I’ve visited them on a few occasions and have been very proud of the quality of training that is being delivered to a high standard.

“I know having the training delivered in Auckland was a real drawcard for many of those recruits.

“Being away from home for 20 weeks to attend recruit training in Porirua can be difficult for some, especially for those who are joining a bit later in life that have families.

“This is an opportunity for anyone who has always dreamed of becoming a police officer but the logistics of training in Porirua meant it wasn’t possible.

“It’s great to see our candidate pool opening for these exceptional people by providing this second opportunity in Auckland.

“Tāmaki Makaurau and Northland are priority areas for recruitment. The RNZPC Auckland Campus is supporting our efforts to grow our workforce in those areas.

“This opportunity is also open to those whose personal circumstances mean that training in Porirua wouldn’t be possible, like applicants who have family support in Auckland.”

The wing starting in Auckland in February, Wing 397, will follow the same format as the current Auckland Wing. There are residential spots available for those who live further away from the campus, while those who live nearby will be able to live at home. The bulk of the course will be in Auckland with recruits travelling to the RNZPC in Porirua for elements we cannot deliver in Auckland.

“We are developing world-class police officers and growing our frontline police presence. The number of officers on our frontline continues to trend upward,” Deputy Commissioner Rogers says.

“If you live in Auckland or Northland and you’ve been holding off in the hopes of another Auckland wing, apply now.”

If you are ready to start your training for one of the most rewarding careers there is, visit newcops.govt.nz to apply.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

An earlier release contained an incorrect date in relation to the death of Zain Takato Fox.

The correct date that Zain Taikato Fox died was 26 July.

We sincerely apologise for this error.

We ask media to please update any stories to reflect the correct date.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre 

Source: New Zealand Government

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston says a continuation of a series of regional employment events reinforces a cross-sector commitment to get Kiwis into jobs, boost employment and grow the economy.

Minister Upston and officials met with representatives of around 36 employers and other stakeholders in Hamilton, reinforcing job opportunities across the Waikato region. 

“It was great to attend this event, acknowledge the commitment of MSD and recognise the partnership with local employers,” Louise Upston says.

“That’s because this Government is focused on a Going for Growth strategy which includes a key emphasis on developing the talent of our people.

“These events reinforce that. They’re about people, about maximising the potential of Kiwis, about raising their earning potential while also ensuring businesses can access the people they need to help them compete globally and grow. 

“The Government has an ambitious target to reduce the number of people on the Jobseeker Benefit by 50,000 by 2030. MSD and employers are key to this.

“We know we can’t do it alone, and need support from the community, employers and training organisations to achieve this goal. 

“To continue discussions about how we can work together to achieve the Jobseeker reduction target, MSD will host a number of events to bring together employers, providers and community organisations.

“The focus for the Waikato Supporting New Zealanders Into Work event was ensuring employers and partners are motivated to invest in the good of their communities by training or employing MSD clients, and that they know how MSDs products and services can support them. 

“It provided a great opportunity for local employers and organisations to discuss how we can all work together to understand workforce needs and address workforce challenges.”

“I want to acknowledge the work of MSD staff in getting people into jobs, with work exits up 11 per cent on the same time a year ago – in Hamilton alone, work exits were up 23% in July 2025 compared to July 2024.  As we saw in Hamilton last night, MSD are doing a great job engaging proactively with both Jobseekers and with employers.

“We know the faster we can help beneficiaries – especially young people – find sustainable employment, the better the outcomes for them, their families, our communities, and our economy.

“That’s why we’ve introduced more early intervention through a phone-based employment case management service which includes up to 10,000 clients in this service, more regular work seminars, and a traffic light system to help them stay on track with their obligations. 

“The new Relocate for Work Support payment will also make it easier for people to move to take up sustainable employment. 

“All of these initiatives are helping on the frontline, and that matters because ‘work’ is about more than money. It also gives people a sense of purpose, independence, connectedness – leading to a better future and helping families break out of the cycle of inter-generational welfare dependence.”

Source: New Zealand Government

“Hundreds of food exporters will benefit from a common-sense cut to red tape, making it easier to deliver safe New Zealand food to more markets,” says Food Safety Minister Andrew Hoggard.

From 25 September 2025, food exporters will no longer need to apply for special exemptions from New Zealand rules if their products meet the requirements of the importing country.

“This simple change means that as long as exporters comply with the rules of the country they’re sending food to, they won’t need MPI’s approval to get around New Zealand’s composition or labelling requirements,” says Mr Hoggard.

“Previously, exemptions had to be applied for product by product – an onerous process that drove up costs, created delays, and sometimes meant missed opportunities.

“The dairy sector, for example, has pointed out that composition requirements for dairy products vary significantly between countries, as their citizens often have different diets and get their nutrition in different ways.

“The new rules cut paperwork and compliance costs, give exporters more certainty, and allow them to manage their own compliance with overseas markets.

“Exporters have been clear that the old system held back trade and innovation. Cabinet has now delivered a streamlined approach that makes exporting easier and more efficient.”

The changes include a one-year transition period where exporters can choose either the existing exemptions or the new pathway. MPI has today published guidance to help businesses adjust.

“This is just the start. I’ve asked officials to prioritise additional work on dietary supplements, and we are working on extending the new approach to all foods. This staged rollout balances cutting red tape with maintaining food safety and consumer trust,” says Mr Hoggard.

The new guidance on the Ministry for Primary Industries Website can be found here: mpi.govt.nz/export/food/exempting-food-exports-from-new-zealand-requirements/

Source: New Zealand Police

Media are invited to the 387 Jude Simpson MNZM recruit wing graduation.

What: Graduation of the New Zealand Police 387 Recruit Wing.

Who: For families and friends to celebrate with the newly attested police officers.

Why: Completion and graduation from their initial training course.

Where: Te Rauparaha Arena, 17 Parumoana Street, Porirua.

When: Thursday 4 September at 2pm – media will need to be in place by 1.45pm.

How: RSVP the Police Media Centre if you’re attending: media@police.govt.nz

Police Commissioner Richard Chambers will attend the ceremony along with a delegation from Victoria Police, Australia.

Also attending will be members of the Police executive and Wing Patron, Jude Simpson MNZM.

The ceremony will include a minute’s silence in honour of Victoria Police officers, Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, who were killed in the line of duty in Porepunkah, Victoria on 26 August, 2025.

Commissioner Chambers: “It is important to mark the service Neal and Vadim gave to their communities, organisation and country. I have also spoken to Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Mike Bush on behalf of our New Zealand Police to acknowledge the loss and will attend the funerals of the two fallen officers in the next few days on behalf of all New Zealand Police staff.

“NZ Police works closely with Victoria Police and our Australian colleagues are here on a pre-arranged visit to look at the technology and tools we provide to our New Zealand Police officers to help them in their work.”

The 387 Wing Patron:

Jude Simpson is a family harm education and training specialist. She is passionate about empowering victims of family harm to live their life to their full potential.

Jude has been working for the past 11 years at the Royal New Zealand Police College as the lead Family Harm Facilitator. She designed, developed and delivers training for recruits on family harm from the perspectives of a victim and a perpetrator. Alongside other family harm training, this gives recruits a full view of family harm and how to respond to it with empathy and understanding.

Jude has also worked for Presbyterian Support Northern as a Family Violence Advocate and while in this role designed, developed and delivered a programme for the Department of Corrections focusing on low-risk women offenders. The objective of the programme was to build self esteem and empower and support the women into work or training.

Over the years, Jude has become a skilled presenter and facilitator, and she has spoken at many conferences as the keynote speaker.

Jude was the lead female spokesperson for the “It’s not ok” national campaign for several years and helped raise awareness of family harm and the needs of victims. She was the project lead on Mangere College becoming the first school in the country to be an “It’s not ok” school.

In 2018 Jude was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for her contribution and work relating to family harm.

Born and raised in Taranaki, Jude now lives in Tauranga. She is the mother of four, a grandmother and great grandmother.

More details about statistics, prize winners and other recruits will be shared after graduation on Thursday and a follow up Ten One story will be published later next month.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Senior Sergeant John Stapleford, Rotorua Road Policing Coordinator:

One person has pleaded guilty to driving in a dangerous manner after Rotorua Police investigated illegal motorbike anti-social road users.

Police received reports of a man riding a trail bike dangerously through Rotorua suburbs. He was identified through CCTV and arrested in Fordlands on 29 August, now granted bail after pleading guilty to the charge.

The man, aged 20, is due to re-appear in the Rotorua District Court on 31 October 2025.

Anti-social road users disrupt the peace of the community, cause damage to roads and are dangerous to all traffic.

Police want to stop dangerous behaviour on and off streets.

If you drive recklessly, you should expect Police to take action to keep neighbourhoods and others on the road safe.

All Bay of Plenty Police across the district strongly encourage anyone in the community who witnesses anti-social road user behaviour to report it immediately to 111.

You can make a report after the fact through our 105 service.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre