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Tōtara Haumaru Hospital Marks Major Milestones
Tōtara Haumaru Hospital Marks Major Milestones

14 February 2025, 7:14 PM

The opening of the final ward at Tōtara Haumaru Hospital on Auckland’s North Shore marks a significant step forward in improving healthcare services for the northern region. Health Minister Simeon Brown announced this week that the facility, which began operating in July 2024, is already having a tangible impact on reducing waitlists for Auckland’s rapidly growing and ageing population.Since its opening, the hospital has performed over 2,500 elective surgeries, contributing to the reduction of healthcare delays in the region. In addition, 2,500 endoscopies have been completed, further expanding the hospital’s capacity to manage both acute and elective procedures. This marks a pivotal achievement for the hospital, which was designed to cater to the increased demand for healthcare in the region.The facility’s expansion has also allowed for the introduction of new services, including localised vascular and plastic surgery, ensuring that patients can receive treatment closer to home. Notably, the hospital has embraced the use of robot-assisted surgery, a modern approach that has resulted in a 40 per cent reduction in the length of hospital stays, reduced complications, and faster recovery times for patients.The opening of the fifth and final ward is another significant development, increasing capacity for women’s health and gynaecology services from 15 to 20 patients. This expansion will not only improve patient outcomes but will also provide a more comfortable and enhanced environment for those seeking care.Health Minister Brown emphasised the government’s commitment to improving healthcare access across the country. "Ensuring that all New Zealanders can access timely, quality healthcare is a priority," he stated. He also highlighted the government’s focus on reducing waitlists and improving health outcomes. With the restoration of five key health targets, including the goal of ensuring that 95 per cent of patients receive treatment within four months by 2030, Brown acknowledged that while there is progress yet to be made, the improvements seen at Tōtara Haumaru are an encouraging step.As the hospital’s theatre capacity and resources continue to scale up, more patients from the northern region and beyond will benefit from quicker and more efficient healthcare delivery. This new facility plays a critical role in reducing strain on the health system, and Minister Brown is confident that its impact will only grow over time.Have a local news story to share?Contact [email protected]

Super Rugby Pacific Kicks Off Tonight
Super Rugby Pacific Kicks Off Tonight

13 February 2025, 6:16 PM

Super Rugby Pacific 2025 begins tonight with an exciting opening round, featuring some highly anticipated match-ups. The standout game sees the Blues host the Chiefs in a Grand Final rematch at Eden Park. Other notable fixtures include the NSW Waratahs unveiling new talent, including Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, as they take on the Highlanders in Sydney.The Crusaders will meet the Hurricanes in Christchurch, while the Fijian Drua face the ACT Brumbies in Suva. Ardie Savea’s Moana Pasifika will travel to Perth to play the Western Force.The Blues have named a strong squad, including eight All Blacks in their starting line-up. The team will be led by All Black prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi, who will celebrate his 150th game for the Blues, becoming only the second player to achieve this milestone for the club.Head Coach Vern Cotter, who guided the Blues to last year’s Super Rugby Pacific Championship, is optimistic about the season ahead but cautioned that each season starts fresh. “The team can draw confidence from the championship title last year, but this is 2025, a new season and we all start on zero points,” Cotter said. “This group of men has talent to burn. If we can harness it in one clear direction, there is no reason why we cannot prosper this year.”The Blues’ powerful squad features experienced All Blacks such as Beauden Barrett, Rieko Ioane, and Dalton Papali’i, alongside rising stars like Caleb Clarke and Mark Tele’a. The match kicks off at 7:05 pm on Saturday at Eden Park, with tickets starting at $19 for adults and $10 for children.Match Fixtures:Crusaders v Hurricanes: Friday 14 February, 19:05, Apollo Projects Stadium, ChristchurchNSW Waratahs v Highlanders: Friday 14 February, 19:35, Allianz Stadium, SydneyFijian Drua v ACT Brumbies: Saturday 15 February, 15:35, HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, FijiBlues v Chiefs: Saturday 15 February, 19:05, Eden Park, AucklandHave a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Government Aims to Slash Supermarket Prices
Government Aims to Slash Supermarket Prices

13 February 2025, 12:44 AM

The Government is stepping up its efforts to tackle high supermarket prices by boosting competition in the sector, says Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis.Recent studies show that New Zealanders are paying higher prices for everyday grocery items compared to shoppers in countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Australia. The supermarket market in New Zealand is dominated by three large companies, with two of them controlling 82 percent of the market share, limiting competition and keeping prices high.“The weekly supermarket shop is a major part of most Kiwi households’ budgets and plays a huge role in the cost of living,” Willis said. “We need more competition in the market to put downward pressure on prices and deliver better deals for shoppers.”The Government is taking decisive action to break up this market dominance. Plans include cracking down on predatory pricing, ensuring fair access to products for all retailers, and making it easier for new competitors to enter the market. Measures also include assisting new entrants in securing land and attracting international investment.Willis' announcement was made alongside the release of a progress report detailing the Government’s “Going for Growth” initiative, which highlights over 80 actions aimed at stimulating the economy. This report reveals the government’s ongoing efforts to bolster economic growth, create jobs, and reduce the cost of living for New Zealanders, particularly through initiatives designed to encourage competition in essential sectors like supermarkets.With inflation now under control, the focus is on creating a more resilient economy that benefits everyone. This includes prioritising five key pillars: developing talent, promoting competitive business settings, encouraging global trade, fostering innovation, and improving infrastructure.“We must ensure that every business, no matter how large or small, has the ability to compete fairly. By improving competition in the supermarket sector, we’re directly addressing the everyday concerns of New Zealand families,” Willis noted.For many Coasties the cost of their weekly grocery shop is a heavy burden, and the Government's measures are intended to ease that pressure. By creating a more competitive supermarket environment, the goal is not only to lower prices but also to enhance consumer choice and improve the overall quality of products available in the market.The “Going for Growth” report shows that the Government is serious about pursuing bold, proactive actions that lead to long-term economic benefits.As this initiative moves forward, local communities can expect to see changes that could make their grocery bills more affordable.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

First Test Train Travels Through CRL Tunnel
First Test Train Travels Through CRL Tunnel

12 February 2025, 10:59 PM

Auckland’s City Rail Link (CRL) project has reached an exciting milestone as the first test train successfully completed a full journey through the new tunnel.This marks a significant step forward in the development of a project that is set to transform the city’s public transport network.As work continues to prepare for its opening in 2026, residents can look forward to improved travel times and more frequent train services.On the evening of the test, a train made its way from Britomart Station to Mt Eden, covering a distance of 3.45 km on the newly energised underground section of the rail line.The train’s journey is the first of its kind since the last major rail development in Auckland in 2012.The test run was a crucial part of the ongoing preparations for the CRL’s opening.It allowed technical teams to assess various aspects of the tunnel’s infrastructure, including tunnel clearance, power supply, and signalling systems.Further testing will take place in the coming weeks, including checks on tunnel ventilation, security, and communication systems, as well as training for Auckland's metro drivers and station staff.Transport Minister Chris Bishop remarked, “There is still a lot more work to do, but it’s great to see measurable progress being made on site as we countdown to the CRL opening next year.”Minister for Auckland Simeon Brown also added, “The first train through CRL is an important milestone for the project. Once complete, CRL will result in significant time savings, and make public transport a much more viable option for Aucklanders.”“This is momentous for the City Rail Link programme and Auckland ratepayers who have made a significant contribution, alongside government, to get this project completed,” says Mayor Wayne Brown.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Arrest Made Over Birkenhead Robbery
Arrest Made Over Birkenhead Robbery

12 February 2025, 7:00 PM

An arrest has been made in connection with the aggravated robbery of a Cash in Transit van in Birkenhead on Tuesday afternoon, with the suspect now facing multiple charges, including aggravated robbery and the use of a firearm.Following the robbery, Police executed a search warrant at a Northcote address late on Tuesday evening. Acting Detective Inspector Simon Harrison of Waitematā CIB confirmed the arrest of a 43-year-old man. "We have charged the man with serious offences," Harrison said, adding that the suspect is scheduled to appear in the North Shore District Court later today.The charges against the man include aggravated robbery and the commission of a crime with a firearm. The police investigation team has been working diligently since the incident to identify and apprehend the suspect."It’s pleasing we have made an arrest so soon into the investigation, given the brazen nature of this alleged offending," Harrison said. "We will not tolerate this offending, especially when a firearm is allegedly presented. I know news of this arrest will bring some reassurance to the Birkenhead community."The arrest follows a string of recent high-profile robberies in the area, with residents expressing concerns about the increasing severity of such crimes. This arrest is expected to offer some comfort to locals, though authorities continue to remind the public to remain vigilant.The investigation is ongoing, and police have urged anyone with information to come forward.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Consultation Opens on Fisheries Reforms
Consultation Opens on Fisheries Reforms

12 February 2025, 5:46 PM

The government has opened consultation on a set of proposed reforms to the Fisheries Act, which Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones describes as the most significant changes to the sector in decades.“The Coalition Government is committed to the success of the fishing industry, which generates around $1.6 billion in exports each year and employs 9,000 people directly,” Mr Jones said. “The proposed changes, which I flagged in September last year, will remove unnecessary regulations that impede productivity and the potential of the sector. It is through changes in industries like this that New Zealand is going to fight its way back to economic prosperity.”The consultation document released today outlines options to enhance sustainability, streamline regulatory processes, and refine tools used to set catch limits. Additionally, the proposals aim to improve privacy protections for fishers on vessels equipped with onboard cameras and to make fish discard rules under the Quota Management System more practical.The reforms have been developed following discussions with a seafood industry forum established last year. While economic efficiency is a key focus, Mr Jones emphasised that sustainability remains a priority.“Sustainability will always be the bottom line for fisheries management, and there’s an opportunity to lift export revenue by improving productivity and efficiency, rather than catch volume,” he said.He noted that advancements in data collection, including the rollout of onboard cameras, have provided more accurate insights into fisheries. However, adjustments to monitoring rules are needed to balance data transparency with privacy protections.“This includes enhancing protections for onboard camera footage, amending the scope of where monitoring is not practical or necessary, and clarifying when cameras must be used,” Mr Jones said.The consultation also seeks input on refining discard regulations to make them more workable for fishers under monitored conditions.“I encourage anyone with an interest to read through the proposals and provide feedback,” Mr Jones added.The consultation document, along with submission details, is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) website. Submissions will be accepted until 5 pm on 28 March 2025.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Hunt for man who stole cash from security guards
Hunt for man who stole cash from security guards

11 February 2025, 9:00 PM

A hunt is underway for a man who stole cash from security guards on Auckland's North Shore while they stocked up an ATMActing Detective Inspector Simon Harrison said the cash in transit van was the target of an aggravated robbery in Birkenhead shortly before 2.30pm on Tuesday.Security staff were carrying out a delivery to the ATM on Birkenhead Ave, he said, when a man approached them and stole a case of cash.The amount of money stolen has not yet been confirmed.Harrison said no one was injured and the man fled on foot, but it was believed he then left in a car."Our investigation is still in the early stages."A scene examination is also being carried out, with additional inquiries to follow."Police have asked anyone in the area at the time and saw anyone heading towards a vehicle carrying a case to contact police on 105, using the reference number P061584274.Information could also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.In a statement, ASB said: "We are aware of an incident at our Birkenhead ATM today. Our main concern is the personal safety and wellbeing of our people and our customers."We can confirm no one was hurt and everyone is safe. We have a team of support staff assisting, and we are working with the police as they carry out their inquiries. The ATM lobby is now open to the public."NZ Security Association chief Gary Morrison said attacks on armoured vans were less common place then they were 30 years ago.That was likely due to additional protection and more significant penalties for attacks on armoured vehicles, he said.His thoughts were with the staff affected by the robbery."The only good thing out of it is the crew are safe and no public were injured."It comes a week after a man was found on the same road critically injured, with stab wounds.Northcote MP Dan Bidois said news of the aggravated robbery was devastating news for the community, who were still frazzled from the stabbing.Bidois said he had "complete confidence" that police would catch the person involved with the ATM robbery.

Government Pushes for Stronger Competition Rules
Government Pushes for Stronger Competition Rules

11 February 2025, 7:14 PM

The Government is ramping up efforts to enhance competition across the economy, aiming to improve productivity and reduce the cost of living for New Zealanders. Commerce and Consumer Affairs Minister Andrew Bayly confirmed that public consultation on key aspects of a comprehensive competition review has now closed."Improved competition is a top priority for this Government," said Bayly. "When competition is working well, New Zealand businesses—both big and small—can thrive. This has knock-on benefits for consumers, including greater choice and lower prices in key sectors like fuel, groceries, and banking."The review, launched in December 2023, focuses on modernising the Commerce Act, which has not undergone a major revision in over 20 years. According to Bayly, outdated competition laws have contributed to issues such as reduced innovation, limited consumer choices, and rising prices.A major component of the review is merger control settings, with the Government exploring stricter regulations to prevent anti-competitive mergers. "Many of these effects could have been avoided if we had more robust merger controls in place," Bayly noted. "Improved settings can lead to better competition and Kiwis getting a fairer deal."The review also considers granting regulators new code-making powers and equipping them with modern tools to address anti-competitive conduct. Bayly stressed that past regulatory changes have largely been sector-specific, while this broader review seeks to improve the overarching competition framework, reducing the need for reactive regulations in individual industries.The public consultation phase provided businesses, consumer groups, and industry stakeholders with an opportunity to contribute feedback on proposed changes. "Thank you to those who provided feedback during this consultation period. Your views will help shape changes to our competition settings to support competitive, dynamic markets that will boost economic productivity and living standards," Bayly said.With consultation now closed, the Government is expected to announce next steps in due course. Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Auckland Losing Ultra-Premium Property Sales
Auckland Losing Ultra-Premium Property Sales

11 February 2025, 6:29 PM

Auckland’s dominance in the ultra-premium residential property market is slipping, with high-net-worth home buyers increasingly looking to Queenstown and the Bay of Plenty.New research based on Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) data reveals that only 152 properties valued at $5 million or more were sold across New Zealand in 2024, marking a 55% decline from 2021. Meanwhile, the overall property market saw 72,484 sales across all price points—down 19% from the 2021 peak.Luxury real estate agent Caleb Paterson of Paterson Luxury Real Estate says Auckland’s share of this exclusive market has shrunk significantly. “In 2019, 82% of all $5 million-plus sales happened in Auckland. By 2024, this had dropped to less than 73%,” he says.While Auckland’s ultra-premium property sales have declined by 14% in the past year, Queenstown has seen a 91% year-on-year increase. Over the longer term, Queenstown’s $5 million-plus sales rose 21% between 2021 and 2024, despite the district’s total property sales declining 13% over the same period.The Bay of Plenty’s high-end market has also shown resilience. “Total sales in the region have fallen 19% since 2020, yet properties in the $5 million-plus bracket have increased by 6%—with a notable 20% lift between 2023 and 2024,” Paterson explains.These shifts suggest a wealth transfer, with ultra-high-net-worth individuals choosing lifestyle regions over Auckland’s commercial centre.Despite the downturn in sales, Paterson believes Auckland’s ultra-premium segment is set for a resurgence. “The last quarter of 2024 had the lowest sales volume of the year, but we’re seeing signs of recovery,” he says.The recent adjustment of the Official Cash Rate (OCR) has played a role in restoring confidence. While luxury home buyers are less reliant on borrowing, lower interest rates signal broader economic stability, increasing market engagement.Paterson notes that the past few years have been challenging for the high-end market.“At one point, over 40% of multimillion-dollar homes were withdrawn due to lack of interest. But many of these have now reentered the market, and buyer engagement has picked up over summer,” he says.A growing trend in New Zealand’s luxury property sector is discreet, off-market transactions. Paterson says his firm offers an advocacy service where they locate homes that meet ultra-high-net-worth buyers’ exacting needs—whether listed for sale or not.“This service is common in North America but relatively new in New Zealand,” he says. “Some buyers seek a property with a helicopter landing pad, others want the worst house on the street to transform into the best. Many will pay 10-15% above market rates to secure a unique property that isn’t advertised.”While Queenstown and Bay of Plenty have gained momentum in the ultra-premium market, Auckland’s luxury sector may be at a turning point. With renewed confidence and increased buyer activity, the city could reclaim some of its lost market share in 2025.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

School Buses Leave Students Stranded
School Buses Leave Students Stranded

11 February 2025, 2:00 AM

For the second consecutive week, school buses serving Millwater students travelling to Orewa College have been at full capacity, forcing students to remain at bus stops and find alternative ways to get to school.The issue has caused distress among students and parents alike, with many children making urgent calls home for a lift, leading to last-minute disruptions for families juggling work and other commitments.Why Are Buses Overcrowded?Several factors are contributing to the ongoing problem.Increased road congestion has led to delays in public bus services, prompting some students to opt for the school bus instead.As a result, by the time the school bus reaches later stops, it is already at full capacity.This morning, for example, the public bus route 985 was seen running with plenty of available seats at 8:45 am, yet school buses were already full.This highlights a mismatch between transport availability and student demand.Possible Solutions on the TableTo address the issue, a few solutions should be considered:Increase Capacity: Orewa College and Auckland Transport could request and fund additional buses.Adjust Timetables: Auckland Transport may modify public bus schedules to better match school start times, ensuring more students can use these services.Real-Time Reporting: School bus drivers will notify the depot as soon as they reach capacity, allowing additional buses to be deployed promptly.What Can Parents Do?Parents affected by this issue should report concerns directly to Orewa College and Auckland Transport.The more voices raised, the sooner a solution can be implemented.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

Police Urge Online Vigilance on Safer Internet Day
Police Urge Online Vigilance on Safer Internet Day

11 February 2025, 12:29 AM

The New Zealand Police are urging parents and young people to remain vigilant about online safety as the country marks Safer Internet Day, a global initiative promoting secure and positive digital experiences.Detective Senior Sergeant Kepal Richards, who leads the Online Child Exploitation Across New Zealand Team (OCEANZ), emphasised the need for parental supervision to safeguard children and teenagers online.“The internet opens up a world of opportunity, but there are offenders online looking to exploit people, and they target the most vulnerable,” Richards said.Although police have not seen a significant surge in such cases in New Zealand, global trends indicate a growing concern. Some online extortion groups attempt to manipulate young users into engaging in harmful or explicit activities, later using the material to coerce victims. These tactics include threats to share images or videos with family and friends, causing distress and fear among victims.Guidance for Parents and CaregiversPolice are advising parents to actively monitor their children’s online activity, educate themselves on potential risks, and maintain open conversations with their children about digital safety.Supervise Online Activity – Know which apps, games, and platforms children are using and who they are interacting with.Check Privacy Settings – Restrict features like location sharing, chat functions, and public profiles.Recognise Manipulation Tactics – Offenders may use fear or shame to control young people, leading to long-term emotional impacts.Report Suspicious Behaviour – Any concerning activity should be reported to the Police or relevant agencies.Richards stressed the importance of open dialogue, saying, “Having regular conversations ensures children feel comfortable coming forward about any online issues that may arise.”Steps for VictimsAuthorities urge anyone targeted by online exploitation to take the following steps:Stop engaging with the offender – Do not comply with further demands.Preserve evidence – Save messages and take screenshots.Report the incident – Inform Police, the Department of Internal Affairs, or Netsafe.For immediate threats, individuals should call 111. Non-emergency reports can be made online at 105.police.govt.nz. Reports to Netsafe can be filed via text at 4282 or by calling 0508 NETSAFE.By staying informed and proactive, families can create safer online spaces for young people in New Zealand.Have a News story to share?Contact [email protected]

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