Most New Zealanders are already using the Health Star Rating (HSR) system to help them choose between packaged foods, according to a survey published by New Zealand Food Safety.The Consumer Food Safety Insights Survey found that 83% of respondents use HSR when buying packaged food or drink for the first time. Of these, 61% reported using the front-of-pack labelling system at least half of the time, while 22% use it occasionally."It's great to see so many Kiwis using our world-class Health Star Rating system to help them make healthier food choices at the supermarket," said Vincent Arbuckle, deputy director-general of New Zealand Food Safety. "And we're confident consumers will use it more often as more products display it."Arbuckle emphasised that the survey sends a clear message to the food industry about the consumer demand for HSR, suggesting that food producers who adopt the system will benefit as well.The HSR system, used in both New Zealand and Australia, allows consumers to compare the nutritional value of similar packaged foods. Foods earn more stars if they are lower in energy, saturated fat, sugar, or salt, and higher in healthy nutrients such as protein, fruits, vegetables, nuts, or legumes. However, the rating is not meant for comparing different types of foods."People already understand that ice cream is less healthy than apples. But if you want to buy ice cream, the HSR system is there to help you make a healthier choice between the different ice creams," Arbuckle said.The survey also revealed that 80% of respondents completely or somewhat trust the HSR system. "This high level of consumer trust is something for manufacturers to consider. Kiwis use HSR, Kiwis trust HSR but, according to the latest uptake survey, only 30% of intended products currently carry HSR in New Zealand," Arbuckle noted.Currently, the HSR system is voluntary. However, if the uptake by manufacturers does not reach 70% by November next year, the Australian and New Zealand governments will consider making it mandatory. Arbuckle encouraged consumers to request HSR on their preferred products if it is not already present."Let's work together to hit that voluntary target and make it easier for busy Kiwis to make healthier food choices in a hurry," he urged.The Consumer Food Safety Insights Survey collected data from 1,602 New Zealand consumers, ensuring a diverse representation by including a quarter of respondents who were Māori and another quarter who were Pasifika.The survey also highlighted that 81% of respondents feel confident that food produced in New Zealand is safe to eat, and 77% believe they can access healthy food options. However, food prices remain the top concern for 77% of Kiwis, followed by concerns about food poisoning.

Auckland Council is giving the go-ahead for a congestion charging scheme to be designed.The 'time of use' charging could reduce Auckland's traffic by 8 to 12 percent, the council said, referring to a Ministry of Transport report from 2020.The charge would speed up traffic without waiting for expensive and unaffordable motorways to be built, Auckland mayor Wayne Brown said."This will make roads less congested for Aucklanders," he said."It's about making the most of what we have and bringing Auckland in line with similar cities. It's a tried and tested solution, and one that's relatively low-cost."The scheme could apply at different times or in different locations.The council was counting on it to help increase public transport use and reduce carbon emissions.A host of stakeholders will provide input for the design which will then be thrown to the public for consultation.If successful, the scheme will be launched alongside the City Rail Link in 2026.But Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia said in May that the proposal did not consider the needs of South Auckland households. Private vehicles were a need for a lot of the community, who did not have a reliable alternative, he said.Auckland Transport will look at sharing technology with Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency to cut the costs of setting up the city's congestion charging scheme.It is not yet known which roads will incur a charge, how many cameras will be needed and how the charge will vary during peak times.

The Coalition Government has announced a significant funding increase for pothole prevention, confirming a record allocation aimed at improving state highways and local roads. Transport Minister Simeon Brown outlined the details of this initiative, which will see a substantial rise in funding over the next three years."NZTA has confirmed that over the next three years the agency will deliver a record $2.07 billion for State Highway Pothole Prevention and $1.9 billion for Local Road Pothole Prevention," Brown said. "Compared to spend under the last government’s 2021-2024 NLTP, this represents a 91 percent increase in funding for State Highway Pothole Prevention and a 50 percent increase in the total funding for Local Road Pothole Prevention."This unprecedented investment is intended to address the extensive backlog of road maintenance across New Zealand. Last year, over 62,000 potholes required repair on state highways alone. The new funding will be directed towards resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works to ensure state highways and local roads meet safety and reliability standards."We have ringfenced this record investment in the Pothole Prevention Fund to resealing, rehabilitation, and drainage maintenance works to ensure that NZTA and councils get our state highways and local roads up to the safe and reliable standards that Kiwis expect," Brown explained. "Our government has inherited a significant backlog of road maintenance across the network. We are now catching up on the maintenance deficit to ensure that Kiwis and freight can get to where they need to go, quickly and safely."The confirmed funding levels under the new initiative provide councils with the certainty needed to finalise their long-term plans. This will also allow roading contractors to plan and invest in the necessary resources, ensuring a clear pipeline of work for maintaining and improving the roading network."Indicative funding levels confirmed under our government provide councils with much-needed certainty as they finalise their Long-Term Plans. It will also enable roading contractors to have a clear pipeline of work in our roading network which will allow more investment in the people and equipment needed for its maintenance," Brown stated.The increased investment aims to deliver tangible results across the country, addressing the urgent need for better-maintained roads. By fixing potholes and ensuring proper road maintenance, the government seeks to enhance safety, increase productivity, and support economic growth."Kiwis want potholes fixed and our roads properly maintained, and this funding boost will deliver real results across the country," Brown emphasised. "Boosting investment in pothole prevention will deliver a safe and efficient network for New Zealanders that increases productivity and supports economic growth."This funding boost is a key part of the government's broader commitment to improving infrastructure and public services, reflecting a concerted effort to meet the needs and expectations of New Zealanders for better, safer roads.

More needs to be done to offset the loss of millions of dollars in property and business investments to Australia caused by a growing exodus of high-net-worth Kiwis, according to an industry expert.New real estate industry data shows that over 50% of vendors who have sold multi-million dollar homes over the past six months have moved to Australia.The sale value of the homes ranges from $4 million to $10 million plus.Caleb Paterson of real estate agency Paterson Luxury says in addition to the sale of their residence, these home homeowners are also liquidating their other business and real estate holdings here, resulting in the loss of tens of millions of dollars worth of investment leaving the NZ economy each week.He says the lack of wealth being recycled at this level is contributing to a growing surplus of high-end properties around New Zealand.“What we know about this demographic is they are extremely well-educated, skilled professionals who have the means to relocate to a new country without the constraints that many other Kiwis face.“While a comparatively small proportion of New Zealanders leave the country, they often have significantly higher asset holdings and may own businesses that employ hundreds of Kiwis. As a result, their departure from NZ has a disproportionately large impact on our economy.“I was working with one family recently who sold their house for over $4 million and then liquidated their business investments of a further $14 million. These funds will now be invested into the Australian economy.“The cumulative loss of wealth we are seeing at the coal face in recent months has been staggering and is reducing the pool of buyers in this segment of the property market and creating a glut of multi-million dollar residential homes,” he says.Paterson says urgent changes to the existing investor visa framework for wealthy migrants are needed to help offset the millions of dollars of investment funding and skillsets being lost to New Zealand.“While reports suggest it is easy for low-skilled labour to enter the market, the process for high net worth investors remains unnecessarily fraught with red tape.“We have seen migrants who have been frustrated with New Zealand’s investor visa process look for alternative ways to buy property here, such as getting residency in Singapore or, simply giving up on this option and opting to gain entry to NZ via the more expedited Skilled Migrant visa instead - both create an avoidable loss of millions of dollars of investment to our economy,” he says.Paterson says the growing trend contributes to dramatic discounting and creating a buyer's market.“For those on the look out for a new luxury home and who have the ability to purchase, these market conditions have created a significant opportunity.“Vendors needing to sell in the short term, have been discounting in some cases in million-dollar increments. However, for those in a position to wait it out, one in every five listings, a record number, has been withdrawn from the market so far this year,” he says.Paterson said demand from high net-worth Kiwis moving to Australia has been so high he has established a trans-Tasman partnership with real estate agents in six Australian centres to help place them in new homes.“Many of the record number of Kiwis moving offshore are moving because they have become disenfranchised with New Zealand in recent years.“The Australian lifestyle is appealing, however, they don't have the local knowledge of which suburbs would best suit their needs and so we have created a trans-Tasman network of agents to support their move into that market,” he says.Paterson says the current surplus of luxury properties is a downstream consequence of the Government’s decision to retain the foreign buyer's ban. “When news of the potential lifting of the ban hit the market last year, property owners in the $3.5m+ segment began readying their homes for sale.“The short notice of the government announcement prevented these homes from listing for sale before the peak summer season and it was inevitable that we would see this wave of new enter the market since the start of the year,” he says.Paterson says with indications that prices in the premium end of the market have bottomed out and economists forecasting a 7% uplift by the end of the year while he is advising vendors who want to remain in the country to remove their homes from sale.He says depending on their circumstances, as with the current economic environment there are other investments that will provide better returns for their portfolios.Caleb Paterson, Director of Paterson Luxury based in Silverdale.Patterson says for some owners, a strategic retreat from the market now could represent a half-million-dollar increase in their sale price.“With the rate of growth in the trans-Tasman property market, anyone looking to move over there should list their property for sale now.“In contrast, for vendors who are planning to stay within New Zealand, our advice is to remove your home from sale and try again at the end of the year.“If you are downsizing from a $10m to a $2m home and depositing the balance in the bank, a 7% growth on your original home is $700,000 while 7% of $2m is $140,000.“Based on the rate of market growth being suggested by economists, this would mean a $560,000 difference, just for sitting around and waiting until the end of the year. For anyone at that stage in their life, half a million dollars is a significant number.“What we are seeing at the moment is a number of bargain hunters who have been in the wings for some time now and are starting to commit to a purchase.“This type of behaviour is a strong indicator we are at the bottom of the market,” he says.

Official police data shows foot patrols in Auckland are down, not up.Police minister Mark Mitchell, on Wednesday's Morning Report, lauded a 60 percent increase in foot patrols in the Auckland CBD in the six months since the government was elected to power.But the raw figures give more context to his claims.Police provided RNZ with the figures the minister was basing his claims on, and they show a 58 percent increase in foot patrols in March in the Auckland CBD, compared with October last year.The figures show foot patrols in three parts of the CBD - Auckland Harbourside, Auckland Central West, and Auckland Central East.Auckland Central West's numbers more than doubled, from 300 patrols in October to 684 patrols in March, but in Auckland Central East the number of patrols actually dropped, from 192 to 178.The March figures given to the minister were about a third higher than any other month, and appear to be an outlier.According to official police data published online, across the entire Auckland City police district - which covers the CBD and suburbs including Onehunga, Mount Wellington, Balmoral, Glenn Innes, Avondale, Ponsonby and Newmarket - foot patrols dropped by 6 percent between October and April, from just over 1213 patrols in October to 1135 in April.Since election day, police foot patrols were lower in four of the next six months.Mitchell first claimed a 58 percent increase in foot patrols at a public meeting on Tuesday night, in which residents told him they did not feel safe.When he told the crowd there had been a 58 percent increase in foot patrols, one resident stood up and claimed that was "bollocks"."I can count on one hand the number of police I've seen on the beat in the last three years in the central city," the man said, met with a round of applause from the crowd."It's not safe and I want to see cops rotating up and down the streets all day."Across the wider Auckland region, the Counties Manukau and Waitemata police districts had a 38 percent increase in patrols.They also increased nationwide.Wellington and Northland went the other way, with foot patrols dropping by more than a third in both regions.

Frustrated residents and business owners in central Auckland have told Police Minister Mark Mitchell they don't feel safe and want to see more police officers on the streets immediately.More than 100 locals in attended a public meeting with Mitchell at Ellen Melville Centre on Tuesday night.Many spoke of wanting to see a police station return to the central city, and raised concerns about the slow response from police as well as the rise in antisocial behaviour on Queen Street.Mitchell told the crowd there had been a 58 percent increase in foot patrols around the city in the last six months. But one resident stood up and claimed that was "bollocks"."I can count on one hand the number of police I've seen on the beat in the last three years in the central city," the man said and was met with a round of applause from the crowd.He said last week he had to hold someone down who had stolen alcohol from an inner city supermarket until police arrived and that same day he said he dislocated his shoulder trying to chase a person who had stolen items from another store he was in."It's not safe and I want to see cops rotating up and down the streets all day," the man said.Queens Arcade property manager Ian Wright told Mitchell he had dealt with "hundreds" of incidents in the CBD including attacks and intimidation."Today there was a teenager who came in and she attacked some shoppers who she didn't even know. Last week we had a sex offender lock himself in one of the stores with some girls."I've been assaulted, abused and intimidated, it's a daily occurrence here."The crowd at a public meeting with Police Minister Mark Mitchell on Tuesday night. Photo: Melanie Earley/RNZThe central city needed to be a welcoming place for visitors, Westmere resident Gael Baldock said. She said as a woman she felt unsafe taking public transport."I don't feel as safe as I used to - I had a friend who was attacked recently on Wellesley St by a man she didn't know who hit her in the face."Baldock did note she had seen more police officers on the street in Point Chevalier and on Karangahape Rd recently, but less so on Queen St."I've seen the community patrol out there but not that many police, more would be good and I think taking away the central station was a major problem."Community Patrols NZ chair Chris Lawson said it was tough out there for officers and residents.He lived and did regular patrols in the CBD and had spent 20 years working as a police officer."I've seen people peeing and pooing in the streets, fighting, stealing and I am concerned about crime. There's a fair amount of it happening lately and people are concerned for their safety which is why so many people are here."Lawson said the Community Patrol was looking for more volunteers."It was a tough decision to start a patrol in the CBD because we're a risk averse group, but we're getting out there and doing what we can.Patrol members were trained not to be involved in conflict, Lawson said.Mitchell couldn't tell residents if or when a new police station would be built in the city, but said until that time increased foot patrols would continue."I think a physical presence of officers on the beat is more important."

As the world marks World Environment Day today (June 5th), individuals and businesses in New Zealand are encouraged to join the global movement towards a more sustainable future.The United Nations launched World Environment Day in 1974 to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote action to protect the planet. Since then, the annual event has grown into a global platform for inspiring change.The purpose of World Environment Day is to encourage individuals, organisations, and governments to take action to protect the environment and promote sustainable living. This year, the focus is on the urgent need to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.In New Zealand, the government is taking steps to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability. Initiatives include phasing out certain hard-to-recycle and single-use plastics, improving household recycling, and supporting projects that minimise plastic waste and its harm on the environment.On World Environment Day, individuals can make a difference by making small changes in their daily lives. Here are 5 things that families can do to have the most impact on sustainability:Reduce plastic use: Refuse single-use plastics like straws, bags, and water bottles, and opt for reusable alternatives.Conserve energy and water: Turn off lights, electronics, and taps when not in use, and use energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances.Reduce food waste: Plan meals, use up leftovers, and compost food scraps.Use public transport or walk/bike: Use public transport, walk, or bike for trips instead of driving.Plant trees and support reforestation: Plant trees in your community or support reforestation efforts globally.By working together, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations. So, let's join forces to protect our planet and celebrate World Environment Day with positive action.Small local businesses can also make a big impact by reducing single-use plastics, implementing recycling, conserving energy, sourcing local and sustainable products, and reducing food waste.Let's come together to make a difference and create a more sustainable future for all.

Fifteen community organisations and businesses in Auckland have received Love Food Hate Waste grants totalling $60,000.The funding, provided by Auckland Council, supports the city's goal of zero waste by 2040.The grants, ranging from $800 to $5,000, back projects aimed at reducing food waste through various community activities.These include workshops, community pantries, and practical learning opportunities such as cooking classes and home gardening.Every year, Kiwis waste over $3 billion worth of food.The aim is help people make the most of their kai and cut down on food waste, which contributes 4% of New Zealand’s total greenhouse gases.One notable initiative is the ‘Eat Me First’ campaign, which encourages people to prioritise food items that need to be consumed soon.Love Food Hate Waste NZ is distributing reusable ‘Eat Me First’ stickers to help households identify these items.The stickers are available for a small postage fee or can be picked up for free at participating locations like Woolworths.Simple actions, like using the 'Eat Me First' stickers, can save money and reduce waste.The grants are part of Auckland Council’s ongoing support for Love Food Hate Waste, a nationwide effort to reduce preventable food waste.The initiative promotes sustainable living practices such as budgeting, proper food storage, and meal planning.For more information and to order 'Eat Me First' stickers, visit the Love Food Hate Waste website https://lovefoodhatewaste.co.nz/

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s approach to managing underperforming employees has gained considerable praise, reflecting a sentiment shared by a significant portion of New Zealand’s workforce. Recent findings indicate that many workers wish their employers would adopt similar measures.A study conducted in April 2024 by Professor Jarrod Haar, Dean of Management and Māori Business at Massey Business School, surveyed 1,081 New Zealand employees about workplace performance issues. The research revealed that 57.6% of respondents reported having a poorly performing co-worker whom they wished would resign. Additionally, 57% believed their managers tolerated poor performance, and 58.4% attributed this tolerance to their organisation’s reluctance to address the issue.“Workers feel frustrated when their managers do not act on poor performance,” said Haar. “This inaction leads to dissatisfaction and increased turnover intentions among competent employees.”The study also highlighted the impact of this tolerance on employee morale. Employees who perceived their employers as indifferent to poor performance were 22 times more likely to consider quitting. This dissatisfaction often results in reduced work ethic, with affected employees becoming less productive due to their frustration with management’s inaction.Prime Minister Luxon’s firm stance on addressing poor performance resonates with many employees. His actions contrast with what Haar describes as a prevalent “blasé indifference” among many employers and managers.“This is a wakeup call for employers,” said Haar. “They need to prioritise managing poor performance to maintain a motivated and productive workforce.”The implications of ignoring poor performance extend beyond individual dissatisfaction. The research suggests that tolerating underperformance can lead to a broader decline in workplace standards, with good performers potentially lowering their efforts in response.Despite differing political opinions, Luxon’s approach to poor performers has garnered broad support from the workforce. The findings underscore a common desire for more proactive management practices in workplaces across New Zealand.Employers and managers are urged to take note of these findings and consider implementing more robust performance management strategies. Doing so could enhance overall employee satisfaction and productivity, fostering a more positive and efficient work environment.

The New Zealand property market faced a significant downturn in April as rising living costs, high interest rates, and recessionary pressures impacted demand.New data from realestate.co.nz showed a nationwide decline in property demand, reflected by reduced searches and engagements per listing. Nationally, searches per listing were down 10.4%, and engagements decreased by 7.5% compared to the previous year. Regionally, 13 out of 19 regions experienced static or reduced searches, while engagements dropped in 11 regions."This indicates a cooling of buyer interest amid economic uncertainty. It is a significant shift as most regions have experienced year-on-year demand growth during 2024 until now," said Sarah Wood, CEO of realestate.co.nz. She attributed the decline to decreased consumer confidence in April, noting, "In response to the recession, buyers are understandably cautious."Approximately 59% of New Zealand’s existing mortgages, by value, are up for renewal within the next 12 months. Wood explained, “Those who fixed two years ago might soon move from interest rates of around 3.0% to around 7.0%. This is likely pulling liquidity from the market and dampening demand.”Adding to the decrease in demand, stock levels were notably high last month, resembling figures from 2015. The total number of homes available for sale increased by 18.1% compared to April 2023, reaching 33,815. Additionally, new listings rose nationally by 34.9% year-on-year, a return to normal levels following an unusually low period in April 2023 due to weather events.Since January 2023, the national average asking price has remained stable. In April, it was $868,877, down a marginal 0.6% from the previous year and 1.8% month-on-month. Wood noted that the national average asking price has stayed below $900,000 since December 2022, a significant decrease from the market peak in January 2022, when it exceeded $1 million. During April, average asking prices were relatively stable, with 12 of 19 regions recording year-on-year changes of less than 5.0% up or down."As we move into the winter months, we typically see a cooling market, and in 2024, this is combined with a softening economy. It will be interesting to see how these factors play out for the property market in the coming months," Wood commented.Despite the overall trend, some regions saw increases in average asking prices. Central Otago/Lakes District and West Coast recorded year-on-year increases of 17.0% and 21.6%, respectively, although they represent different ends of the price spectrum. Taranaki also saw a lift in asking prices, up 7.2% compared to last year.The coming months will be critical for the New Zealand property market as economic conditions continue to influence buyer behaviour and market dynamics.

The nation's most troublesome stretch of State Highway 1 - through Mangamuka Gorge south of Kaitāia - is set to reopen by Christmas after what will be a closure of more than two years.The 13-kilometre road was all but obliterated by a series of 15 slips in a major storm in August 2022, just over a year after the highway reopened following a previous year-long closure.Repairs had been underway for less than six months when a second storm, in April 2023, triggered another 20 slips, significantly delaying repairs and escalating the cost.The road through the steep and winding Mangamuka Gorge is a crucial link for people travelling between Kaitāia and the rest of the country.Since August 2023, motorists have had to detour via State Highway 10 around the east coast, or use back roads through Broadwood and Herekino to the west, adding significantly to journey times.However, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency senior project manager Hendrik Postma said rebuilding of the Far North lifeline was now progressing well, and would be complete in time for Christmas - as long as there were no more major storms.Waka Kotahi senior project manager Hendrik Postma says State Highway 1 through Mangamuka Gorge will be open in time for Christmas – as long as there are no more big storms. Photo: RNZ/Peter de GraafHe said a definite reopening date would be announced in September, once the worst of the winter rain had passed."We'll open before Christmas, weather permitting. If we get through this winter, we'll make it."Seventy-four percent of the employees on this project are locals so everybody's got a vested interest to get this road open."Postma said it was one of the biggest roading recovery projects currently under way in New Zealand.Waka Kotahi Northland recovery project director Mark Ware said the original budget, before the second lot of slips, was $100 million.Waka Kotahi Northland recovery project director Mark Ware says the Mangamuka Gorge reconstruction project is far bigger and more complex than that being undertaken in the Brynderwyn Hills. Photo: RNZ/Peter de GraafThe 2023 storm damage had bumped the total cost up to about $165m.Waka Kotahi's board approved the extra funding just last Thursday, he said.Ware, who is also in charge of rebuilding State Highway 1 over the Brynderwyn Hills further south, said the Mangamuka project was by far the bigger and more complex of the two.In the Brynderwyns, the slips covered a distance of 2-3km, mostly above the road, so much of the work involved stabilising slopes.In Mangamuka Gorge, on the other hand, the slips stretched for 13km and most were below the road, so the construction work required was much more complicated.The A11 slip is the largest of the slips in the Mangamuka Gorge. Photo: Supplied/Waka KotahiThe increased cost of the Mangamuka project was due to the number of slips going from 15 to 35 after the 2023 deluge.Ware said before the closures the Brynderwyns saw far more traffic than Mangamuka Gorge - 10,000-plus vehicles a day compared to 1300 - but both were economic and social lifelines for Northland."We are mindful of the fact that it's having an impact on the people of Northland, so we really want to get it done and get it done fast, but get it done well."Ware said special challenges of the Mangamuka project included keeping workers safe while heavy machinery was moving up and down a narrow corridor, high rainfall, steep terrain, and the way the ground kept moving.Postma said other complicating factors included the area's unstable geology and the past year's exceptionally high rainfall - 2800mm instead of the annual average of 1700mm.An example of the “Mangamuka wall” construction method used to rebuild the highway at 15 critical slip sites. Photo: RNZ/Peter de GraafFactors that helped the project included "the great people that are up here".Postma said he was often asked why a road tunnel was not drilled through the ranges instead.He said the area's geology made it unsuitable for tunnelling, and the cost would be measured not in millions but in billions of dollars.Lead contractor CLL communications manager Kylie Harris said the closure of Mangamuka Gorge had a profound effect on families such as hers.She lives in Kaitāia but used to travel often to Tautoro, south of Kaikohe, where her father was from and where many whānau events such as tangi and wānanga were held.CLL communications manager Kylie Harris, of Kaitāia, says gorge workers have formed a close-knit community. Photo: RNZ/Peter de GraafThe detour via State Highway 10 had increased the travel time from one hour to just under two hours, so she was unable to make the trip, or connect with relatives on the south side of the gorge, as often as she used to.The reopening of the highway would mean a lot to whānau on both sides of the ranges, she said.It would, however, also be bittersweet, because she had made lifelong friends among the workers in the isolated gorge.Harris said being involved in a project of such significance had given her, and her co-workers, a sense of pride.According to a Waka Kotahi briefing document, of the 15 slips deemed as critical, three had so far been repaired with another three nearing completion.Piling is underway at slip A26. Photo: Supplied/Waka KotahiAt those locations the road had been rebuilt by driving piles of just over 1m in diameter up to 32m into the ground.The piles were then capped with a concrete beam and anchored using steel cables driven up to 35m into the hillside.The same design was used to repair the two worst slips after the earlier deluge in 2020. Those repairs withstood the 2022 and 2023 storms.The most complex slip, called A11, is about 20m deep and extends some 200m up the hillside.An estimated 30,000 cubic metres of soil has to be removed to allow the road to be re-routed away from the slip.The largest drill in use in the Mangamuka Gorge is the Liebherr LB24. Photo: Supplied/Waka KotahiAs of Friday, 21,000 cubic metres had been shifted using giant dump trucks previously used on the Brynderwyn project.Other aspects of the project include improving drainage, for example by replacing existing culverts with new ones two to three times the size, so the road would be better able to handle future downpours.The new culverts would be fitted with steps and rocks to allow fish to travel upstream, and eDNA testing had been carried out to determine which species were present in the area's streams.Electronic bat monitoring equipment was used to check for bat roosts before trees are felled, and sniffer dogs were deployed to check for kiwi.So far no kiwi had been found, but plenty of pupurangi (kauri snails), tusked wētā and skinks had been relocated away from work sites.Much of the rock that forms the Maungataniwha Range, including Mangamuka Gorge, is a type known to geologists as Northland allochthon - or, more vividly, as "Northland problematic rock".

Within 18 hours of the Budget being released, there were 240,821 visits to the government’s tax calculator website, Finance Minister Nicola Willis announced.The website outlines the tax relief available to lower and middle-income New Zealanders, indicating strong public interest in understanding the Budget’s impact on personal finances.“Hardworking Kiwis, who often work two jobs and juggle family commitments, need tax relief to keep their heads above water, and this Budget delivers for them,” Willis said.The Budget, which includes the first tax relief in 14 years for low and middle-income earners, aims to address the higher living costs affecting many households.Starting July 31, the average income household will receive up to NZ$102 a fortnight to help manage cost of living pressures.Approximately 1.9 million households, representing 94 per cent of all households in New Zealand, will benefit from this tax relief.Willis highlighted the public’s response, noting the significant traffic to the tax calculator site.“The surge of visitors to our tax calculator shows that Kiwis want to know exactly how the Budget affects them, and how much better off they will be as a result of the savings we have made and the tax relief we are delivering,” she said.The Finance Minister assured that the tax calculator is reliable, backed by the most recent and accurate data from the Treasury.It has been tested extensively over the past few months to ensure it accurately reflects the benefits from adjustments in tax brackets, the in-work tax credit, and the expansion of the independent earner tax credit.“Our Budget delivers for New Zealanders, and I continue to encourage all Kiwis to use our tax calculator at Budget.govt.nz/taxcalculator to see how much they will benefit from July 31,” Willis added.This significant policy change marks a pivotal moment for New Zealanders who have faced financial strain due to increasing costs and stagnant wages.By providing tangible relief, the government aims to alleviate some of the financial pressures that have built up over more than a decade.

Work on the Penlink project continues to advance, with substantial developments in earthmoving and bridge construction. An impressive 413,000 cubic metres of earth were moved this season, reflecting the project's rapid pace.The Wēiti River Bridge reached a key milestone with the drilling of two piles, each 3 metres wide and 48 metres deep. Steel casings, 18 metres in length, were installed into these piles, signifying a critical step in the construction process. The bridge, once complete, will enhance connectivity and safety, and bolster economic growth in the Whangaparāoa Peninsula.On the eastern bank of the Wēiti River, the earthworks team moved 29,000 cubic metres of material last month, improving visibility across the river to where the bridge is being constructed. This earth movement highlights the project's progress and the anticipated connectivity it will bring.In May, the Auckland Council approved winter work for the project, ensuring construction continues through the colder months. These approvals are pivotal in maintaining the project’s momentum towards creating a more resilient and efficient transport network.The Duck Creek Road Bridge also saw significant progress with the delivery and installation of its beams. These include five 31-metre-long beams, each weighing 66 tonnes, and five shorter beams at 16.5 metres. The beams, unique for their I-type section girders, allow the bridge to be built without central piers, enhancing efficiency. A 600-tonne crane was used to lift the beams into place, demonstrating the scale of the operation.Offset planting initiatives are underway in Long Bay Regional Park as part of the project's commitment to environmental sustainability. This month marks the start of planting 140,000 plants, with 26,000 already planted. The initiative aims to enhance native biodiversity, offsetting the environmental impact of the construction.Concrete pouring for the Wēiti River Bridge piles was another major task completed in May. Each pour required 360 cubic metres of concrete and extensive coordination. The team successfully managed two significant pours, each needing 70 tonnes of steel reinforcement.These milestones illustrate the project's ongoing progress and its role in improving infrastructure and connectivity for the Hibiscus Coast.

Auckland Council has narrowed down the options for a future city stadium to two proposals - one on the waterfront, the other a revamped Eden Park.It has given both bids six months to self-fund feasibility studies and show why their proposal should be chosen.Four options were in the running and councillors agreed on Thursday to shortlist a 50,000-seat facility at Quay Park favoured by New Zealand Rugby, and Eden Park 2.1 which would include a retractable roof and increase seating to 60,000.Councillor Shane Henderson chairs a working group set up after council received unsolicited bids."Over the last few months, our working group took on the goal of exploring matters relating to Auckland stadium venues, and specifically to create a structured process for the numerous unsolicited proposals the council was receiving to build a 'national stadium' in Auckland," he said."The council was clear that this was not a council-initiated or funded project."Henderson said the working group recommended the two frontrunners."This week, we've passed a milestone and we're now going to move forward to a feasibility study to look more closely at the future of a city stadium for Auckland."He said they sought expertise in stadium operations."The process so far balances the need to move swiftly so we can provide certainty for the participants in the process, while also ensuring any decisions are informed by strong expert input."

The New Zealand Government has committed $2.68 billion in Budget 2024 to enhance roads, rail, and public transport infrastructure, aiming to support economic growth and ensure safe, efficient transport for Kiwis and freight. Transport Minister Simeon Brown announced the funding, which represents a significant increase from previous plans.“This funding includes a billion-dollar increase over that signalled during the consultation on the GPS on land transport,” Brown said. “This funding has been secured to accelerate the delivery of priority projects including the Roads of National Significance.”Key components of the investment include $1 billion to expedite major road and public transport projects, and $939.3 million to repair roads damaged by last year’s severe weather events in the North Island. Additionally, $266.9 million is allocated for upgrading and maintaining Auckland and Wellington’s metropolitan rail networks, while $200 million supports KiwiRail's maintenance and renewals of the national rail network.The budget also allocates $10 million for Airways New Zealand to complete the minimum operating network of Ground Based Navigation Aids and $44 million for the Civil Aviation Authority to continue core functions during a fee and levy review. Critical frontline rescue services will receive $23.1 million to respond to severe weather events and emergencies, and Surf Life Saving New Zealand and Coastguard New Zealand will get $63.6 million.An important aspect of the budget is the refocusing of $59.7 million over the next four years to decarbonise the bus fleet, including investments in zero-emissions buses, charging infrastructure, and improvements to bus driver safety and working conditions.Transport Minister, Simeon Brown.Brown emphasised the importance of this investment for economic recovery. “Investing in transport infrastructure is critical to our plan to rebuild the economy so we can lift incomes and afford the health, education, and other frontline services New Zealanders depend upon,” he said.The Government's plan builds upon the $20.7 billion already outlined in the draft GPS on land transport and the Roads of Regional Significance programme. This existing funding is aimed at boosting investments in roading, rail, and public transport. Key projects include 17 Roads of National Significance and major public transport initiatives such as the Alternative to Brynderwyns, Whangarei to Port Marsden, and Warkworth to Wellsford routes. Additionally, $500 million is earmarked for a Pothole Prevention Fund.Brown highlighted the commitment to repairing and rebuilding vital transport links affected by North Island weather events. “The Government is fully funding the recovery of the State Highway network and supporting local councils with the recovery,” he said.The budget also includes significant investment in rail networks to prepare for the opening of the City Rail Link, ensuring improved reliability and safety of services in Auckland and Wellington. “Fully funding the completion of the Auckland rail network rebuild supports the opening of the City Rail Link by increasing the reliability of the line and wherever possible removing speed restrictions that limit the operation of services,” Brown noted.“Our Government is investing in the transport infrastructure needed to help Kiwis get where they need to go quickly and safely, and unlock economic growth and opportunity,” he concluded.

Auckland FC, also known as The Black Knights, has announced its first four player signings ahead of its debut season in the A-League Men.The signings include Jesse Randall, Michael Woud, Francis De Vries, and Cameron Howieson, all of whom bring a mix of talent and experience to the new club.Experienced shot stopper Michael Woud, 25, returns to Auckland after nine years, having spent time playing abroad.He joins 21-year-old Jesse Randall, who has international experience at the Under-23 level, and 29-year-olds Francis De Vries and Cameron Howieson, both of whom have represented New Zealand's national team, the All Whites.Head Coach Steve Corica expressed excitement about the new signings, stating, “We are building a club that has a strong connection to Auckland. We wanted our first player announcements to be talented New Zealanders who have experience both locally and internationally. Michael is a great shot stopper and is really excited to be returning home"."Both Francis and Cameron have been two of the most consistent players at a national level and we have been tracking Jesse for a while now and he has a huge amount of potential. All four players suit our attacking style of football, they will all be making their A-League debuts next season and will want to impress the home crowds.”Auckland FC CEO Nick Becker also highlighted the significance of the signings.“All four players signed represent what we have said we would do from day one. We are building a club that is embedded in the community and creates new opportunities for players in Auckland. It is really special to have players who have a genuine connection to Auckland and its football clubs"."Cameron Howieson has played over 114 games locally, has enjoyed a lot of local success with Auckland City and is incredibly popular with the local football community. Cam now has the opportunity, along with the others, to showcase their talent in the A-League and potentially overseas through our multi-club ownership,” he said.The Black Knights will play their home games at Mt. Smart’s Go Media Stadium when the 2024/25 season kicks off in October.The club is majority owned by Bill Foley, with Ali Williams and Anna Mowbray as local co-owners.Becker added, “The level of energy and excitement for the club from the grassroots, social leagues, and on the street has been incredibly humbling. This is just the start and we’re going to make Auckland proud.”Further player announcements are expected in the coming weeks as the team gears up for its inaugural season.

The Powerball jackpot has rolled over once again, reaching an impressive $43 million for this Wednesday night’s draw. Lotto NZ’s Head of Corporate Communications, Lucy Fullarton, expressed the excitement surrounding the high stakes, stating, “High jackpots are exciting, and we know Kiwis all around the country will be dreaming about what they would do if they won $43 million with Powerball on Wednesday.”With the jackpot climbing, Fullarton anticipates a surge in ticket sales, especially as the deadline approaches. “As the jackpot climbs, there is more demand for our games. We know stores will be busy from around 5pm on Wednesday, and lots of people will also be jumping online to grab their ticket in the hour before sales close at 7.30pm. Our advice is to get in early and avoid the rush,” she advised.While the Powerball prize remains unclaimed, five Lotto players have reason to celebrate. Winners from Auckland, New Plymouth, Napier, and Christchurch each took home $200,000 in the Lotto First Division from last night's draw. The winning tickets were purchased at Pak N Save Henderson and Pak N Save Mangere in Auckland, New World Greenmeadows in Napier, and via MyLotto by players from New Plymouth and Christchurch.Additionally, the Strike Four prize was won by two lucky players from Thames and Tauranga, who will each receive $200,000. These winning tickets were sold at Martina Four Square & Lotto in Thames and through MyLotto to a player in Tauranga.Lotto NZ encourages all ticket holders to check their tickets promptly. This can be done in-store, online at MyLotto, or via the MyLotto App, ensuring winners can claim their prizes without delay.The anticipation continues to build as the Powerball jackpot climbs, drawing the attention of hopeful players across the nation. With $43 million up for grabs, New Zealanders are eagerly awaiting the next draw, dreaming of how their lives could change with a stroke of luck.

As the King’s Birthday long weekend begins, police are urging road users to prioritise safety and avoid risky behaviours. Superintendent Steve Greally, Director of Road Policing, emphasised the importance of responsible driving to prevent tragedies on the roads."Families and communities should not have to face the tragic consequences of a bad decision on the road," said Greally. "Our staff are intent on keeping everyone on the road safe, regardless of whether it is a public holiday or any other day of the year."The police are focusing on known factors contributing to crashes, including seat belt use, impairment from alcohol, drugs, or fatigue, distractions such as mobile phones, and speeding. Greally warned that drivers caught endangering safety could face infringement notices or other enforcement actions. "Drivers should expect the appropriate enforcement action if you are thought to be endangering the safety of yourself, possible occupants, or other road users," he added.Travellers are advised to plan their trips using the New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi’s Journey Planner, which provides updates on travel times, delays, roadworks, and closures. This weekend also marks the beginning of winter, bringing additional driving challenges.Waka Kotahi has issued several winter driving tips to help ensure safe travel. Drivers are encouraged to adjust their speed to match road conditions. Using headlights in poor visibility conditions and manually turning them on during the day if necessary is also recommended. Increasing following distances in poor weather and checking the weather and road conditions before heading out are critical for safe winter driving.Police presence will be heightened throughout the weekend, with officers patrolling roads at any time and location to ensure safe travel for everyone. "We don’t accept people dying on our roads and will continue to do our part to prevent that, so we’re asking drivers to do the same," stated Greally.Road users are reminded to take these precautions seriously and contribute to making the King’s Birthday weekend a safe one for all.

The New Zealand Government announced significant changes to the Waste Disposal Levy to bolster environmental and climate change initiatives. The changes, introduced as part of the Budget 2024 legislation, will allow the levy to fund a broader array of projects, Environment Minister Penny Simmonds said.The revised legislation expands the levy’s scope under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008. "In addition to investments in waste recycling and recovery infrastructure, the central Government portion of the waste levy can now fund a broader range of environmental outcomes, such as restoring freshwater catchments," Simmonds stated.The new measures include provisions for using levy funds to manage waste generated by emergencies, such as cyclones, and to preemptively clean up contaminated sites and vulnerable landfills before they exacerbate environmental problems. "Through the expanded scope of the levy, we can take proactive steps to protect the environment as natural disasters arise more frequently due to the effects of climate change," Simmonds added.Funds from the levy will continue to be shared between central and local governments, maintaining a 50 per cent allocation for local authorities to focus on community-based waste minimisation projects. The Government's initial plans for its portion include prioritising waste infrastructure development and remediating contaminated sites, with future priorities covering kerbside recyclables, construction and demolition waste, and organic waste.Levy increases introduced by the previous Government mandate a $10 per tonne rise for municipal and construction and demolition landfills from 1 July 2024. Subsequent changes will see incremental increases from 1 July 2025 to 1 July 2027, though at a slower rate."Getting ahead of climate change is important for New Zealand to help prevent avoidable costs over the long term," Simmonds said. "This incremental levy change means we can invest further in reducing our waste and preparing for natural disasters."These updates are part of a broader strategy to ensure New Zealand is better equipped to address the environmental challenges posed by increasing natural disasters due to climate change. By expanding the use of the Waste Disposal Levy, the Government aims to create a more sustainable and resilient environment.