A sparky’s senses sniffed out a large-scale commercial grow house, resulting in hundreds of cannabis plants being located.

On Wednesday afternoon, Police received information about a possible illegal operation hidden in the heart of Ōtāhuhu.

“An electrician working in the area noticed unusual wiring coming from a warehouse on Queen Street,” Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward, of Counties Manukau West CIB, says.

“Ventilation pipes were also seen, which gave the telltale signs that the warehouse was being used for illegal activity.

“An unmistakable smell was coming from the ventilation – it was a cannabis growing operation.”

Police put a scene guard in place with a search warrant executed on Thursday.

Detective Senior Sergeant Hayward says around 360 cannabis plants were located inside, underneath 15 tents.

“No occupants were located inside at the time, but all of the plants have since been destroyed,” he says.

“We would like to acknowledge the man for acting on his senses and reporting the suspicious set up to us.”

Police continue to encourage people reporting suspicious activity in their communities by calling 111, or reporting information through 105 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan:

Police continue to work at the scene of last night’s fire in Mairehau.

We can now confirm that the child who died in the house fire was a three-year-old girl.

Four other children aged between 10 weeks and five-years-old, were admitted to hospital. The children are siblings of the deceased girl.

Three of the surviving children have been discharged and are in the care of family members. One child, a girl aged two-years-old, remains in hospital in a stable condition, with moderate injuries.

A 23-year-old woman, the mother of the children, is in a critical condition in hospital and sadly is not expected to survive her injuries.

The fire is not being treated as suspicious. Enquiries by Police, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand are ongoing, including a scene examination.

An increased presence will remain in the Whitehall Street area while enquiries continue.

This is a heartbreaking tragedy for the whānau, and Police extend our deepest sympathies as they navigate this devastating time.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Police, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand, enquiries are underway after one person died following a house fire in Mairehau.

Emergency services were called to a house on Whitehall Street at around 8.25pm on 14 May.

Sadly, a child died at the scene.

One person received critical injuries, three were in a serious to moderate condition, and two received minor injuries. The injured are two adults and four children and were all transported to hospital.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan, says a scene guard was put in place at the property overnight.

“Police will be carrying out a scene examination today, including working with Fire and Emergency New Zealand Fire Investigators.”

The cause of the fire is still to be determined, but it is not believed to be suspicious.

At this stage, there is no further information available.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Police, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand, enquiries are underway after one person died following a house fire in Mairehau.

Emergency services were called to a house on Whitehall Street at around 8.25pm on 14 May.

Sadly, a child died at the scene.

One person received critical injuries, three were in a serious to moderate condition, and two received minor injuries. The injured are two adults and four children and were all transported to hospital.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan, says a scene guard was put in place at the property overnight.

“Police will be carrying out a scene examination today, including working with Fire and Emergency New Zealand Fire Investigators.”

The cause of the fire is still to be determined, but it is not believed to be suspicious.

At this stage, there is no further information available.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

MIL OSI

The Minister for Regulation and the Attorney‑General have today issued joint statutory guidance to support consistent application of the Regulatory Standards Act 2025 (the Act) across government.

“We’re showing voters who is responsible for putting costs on them and why. Better information means more informed choices at the voting booth. That’s important for the future of New Zealand,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Statutory guidance issued today will show government agencies how to comply with the Act’s new transparency requirements. From July any Minister introducing a Bill to the house must also provide a Consistency Accountability Statement (CAS), which will published. The CAS will show whether proposed laws are consistent with the principles of good regulation in the Act, and if not, Ministers must explain why not.”

The guidance outlines expectations and best practice in relation to:

• how the principles of responsible regulation should be applied
• how to review proposed or existing legislation for consistency with the principles of responsible regulation
• the content and presentation of consistency accountability statements
• how to prepare, publish, carry out, and report on plans for review of existing legislation.

“From July we are also replacing Regulatory Impact Statements (RIS) with shorter and sharper Regulatory Analysis Summaries (RAS). RISs could be over 100 pages of fluff. RASs will be less than 20 pages and more focussed on cost benefit analysis. To ensure the quality of the analyses, RASs will be quality assured by an independent panel,” Mr Seymour says. 

“Bad regulations have real consequences for real people. People work hard to earn their livelihood. Now there is scrutiny for people who ruin it with bad regulations.”

“The guidance was developed in close cooperation with the Parliamentary Counsel Office and the Crown Law Office. It reflects the Crown’s understanding of the legal effect of the principles of responsible regulation as set out in the Act,” Attorney‑General Chris Bishop says.

“Good regulation should be necessary, proportionate, and effective. The guidance helps agencies apply those principles in practice.” 

The full guidance can be found here: https://www.regulation.govt.nz/about-us/our-publications/guidance-issued-under-section-26-of-the-regulatory-standards-act-2025/

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New Zealand Food Safety is asking people to pause and do a quick check before buying food through social media platforms to make sure it’s safe for them and their families.

“We know shopping for food online through non-traditional avenues is becoming increasingly popular and that people enjoy the selection and convenience this provides,” say New Zealand Food Safety acting deputy director-general Jenny Bishop.

“It’s up to sellers to identify and manage all the risks associated with their products and that’s no different when it comes to food sold through social media.

“However, consumers can’t be expected to know all the rules involved in selling food, especially for online sales where they can’t immediately interact with the seller.

“There are a few steps you can take to make sure you are safe before buying.”

Here’s a few things to look at before you place an order: 

Before you buy, check: 

• Ask if the seller is registered under the Food Act if they need to be. Note, if you are buying from homebased cake makers, they do not need to be registered.  
• Can you tell what’s in the food (including any allergens), how it’s prepared, and how it’s been stored?  
• Does the food look cleanly presented and consistently prepared? For instance, is there a clear picture of the label and/ or product information?
• Will it arrive at the right temperature (for example, hot if it’s hot, chilled, or frozen if it’s meant to be frozen)? 

“If you suspect that the food is unsafe, contact the seller with your concerns, as it helps improve food safety and prevents future harm. 

“You should be able to easily contact the seller to ask them these questions, and as always if the answer doesn’t feel right, do not buy it,” says Ms Bishop.

People can also report unsafe food to New Zealand Food Safety by making a food complaint.

“If you have doubts you want to follow up it helps to take a photo for when you contact the seller or report the issue.”

Find out how to make a food complaint

Learn more about buying food safely online

MIL OSI

Police have turned up the heat on those allegedly stealing equipment from people’s homes after a search warrant in Papakura.

One arrest has been made with stolen property, including gas water heaters, being recovered.

Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Nelson, from Counties Manukau South CIB, says Police suspected stolen property from a recent burglary was being stored.

“On Wednesday, the Counties Manukau South Tactical Crime Unit executed a search warrant at an Arimu Road address and located a range of stolen items.

“Among the items recovered were eight gas califonts – compact water heating systems – and a number of 45kg gas bottles.”

A woman at the property was arrested without incident.

Five of the gas califonts were able to be linked to a recent burglary in Papakura as the owner had recorded the serial numbers and provided them to Police.

They were returned, and work is ongoing to identify the owners of the remaining items.

Detective Senior Sergeant Nelson says the recovered items are frequently targeted by thieves, and this is a timely reminder to ensure you keep a record of your property.

“Record the serial numbers of tools and valuable items, or mark these with an identifier that can be traced to your property.

“This can help Police return your items if they’re stolen by thieves.”

A 44-year-old woman will appear in Papakura District Court on 28 May, charged with burglary.

ENDS.

Frankie Le Roy/NZ Police 

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The continued operation of the Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme in the Bay of Plenty has been granted Fast-track approval, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced today.

This is the 23rd project to be approved under the Fast-track process and supports New Zealand’s renewable electricity generation infrastructure.

Manawa Energy Limited lodged a substantive application in September 2025 for the re-consenting of the existing Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme.

Approval has taken five and a half months since the independent expert panel commenced.

“The Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme involves the continued operation of the existing hydro-electric generation scheme and associated water and generation infrastructure in the Kaimai Range,” Mr Bishop says.

“The scheme generates an average of 169 GWh of electricity per year, equivalent to the electricity needs of approximately 24,600 households, and contributes around 32 per cent of Tauranga’s electricity demand.”

“Reliable renewable electricity generation is critical to supporting economic growth and regional resilience,” Mr Jones says.

“This scheme has been operating in some form for at least 50 years and continues to play a vital role in supplying electricity to the Bay of Plenty community.

“Fast-track is helping ensure important infrastructure projects like this can continue operating with greater certainty and efficiency.”

“The continued operation of the scheme is expected to avoid an increase in emissions of around 26,693 tonnes of CO2 per year, supporting New Zealand’s emissions reduction goals,” Mr Bishop says.

“The project involves re-consenting the existing hydro-electric power scheme, including associated generation and water infrastructure, to support ongoing renewable energy production.

“The independent expert panel released its draft decision and conditions for the project on 24 April 2026.”

Notes to editor:

For more information about the project: Kaimai Hydroelectric Power Scheme Re-Consenting

Fast-track by the numbers: 

•    23 projects approved by expert panels. 
•    16 projects with expert panels appointed. 
•    46 projects are currently progressing through the Fast-track process. 25 active substantive and 21 referral applications.
•    47 projects have been referred to Fast-track by the Minister for Infrastructure. 
•    149 projects are listed in Schedule 2 of the Fast-track Approvals Act, meaning they can apply for Fast-track approval. 
•    On average, it has taken 118 working days for decisions on substantive applications from when officials determine an application is complete and in-scope. 

Fast-track projects approved by expert panels: 

•    Arataki [Housing/Land]  
•    Ashbourne [Housing/Land]  
•    Ayrburn Screen Hub [Infrastructure]
•    Green Steel [Infrastructure] 
•    Homestead Bay [Housing/Land] 
•    Bledisloe North Wharf and Fergusson North Berth Extension [Infrastructure]  
•    Drury Metropolitan Centre – Consolidated Stages 1 and 2 [Housing/Land] 
•    Drury Quarry Expansion – Sutton Block [Mining/Quarrying] 
•    Kings Quarry Expansion – Stages 2 and 3 [Mining/Quarrying] 
•    Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme [Renewable energy] 
•    Maitahi Village [Housing/Land] 
•    Milldale – Stages 4C and 10 to 13 [Housing/Land] 
•    Pound Road [Housing/Land]  
•    Rangitoopuni [Housing/Land]  
•    Ryans Road [Housing/Land]  
•    Southland Wind Farm Project [Renewable energy]
•    Sunfield [Housing/Land]  
•    Tekapo Power Scheme – Applications for Replacement Resource Consents [Renewable energy] 
•    Takitimu North Link – Stage 2 [Infrastructure] 
•    Waihi North [Mining/Quarrying] 
•    Waitaha Hydro [Renewable energy] 
•    Waitākere District Court – New Courthouse Project [Infrastructure]
•    Wellington International Airport Southern Seawall Renewal [Infrastructure]

Expert panels have been appointed for: 
•    Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project  
•    Bream Bay Sand Extraction Project
•    Central and Southern Block Mining Project
•    Delmore
•    Downtown Carpark Site Development
•    Foxton Solar Farm
•    Haldon Solar Farm 
•    Hananui Aquaculture Project 
•    Lake Pūkaki Hydro Storage and Dam Resilience Works 
•    Mahinerangi Wind Farm 
•    Mt Iron Junction
•    Northwest Rapid Transit
•    State Highway 1 North Canterbury – Woodend Bypass Project (Belfast to Pegasus)
•    Stella Passage Development
•    The Point Mission Bay 
•    The Point Solar Farm  
 

MIL OSI

• Inflation surge coming driven by fuel prices
• Petrol up a third, diesel nearly doubled in two months
• Energy and airfares also higher
• Food inflation takes a rest, flat for the month, annual rate lowest in a year
• Items make up just under half consumer price index

The price of fuel and transport has skyrocketed while food costs have held steady, in a partial inflation survey.

Stats NZ data confirmed steep price rises for petrol and diesel over the past couple of months as the Middle East conflict broke out, leading to the closing of the Strait of Hormuz.

“In the two months since February 2026, petrol has increased 33.6 percent and diesel has increased 94.9 percent,” Stats NZ spokesperson Nicola Growden said.

The world oil benchmark Brent Crude has averaged more than US$100 (NZ$170) a barrel since the start of the conflict.

Domestic airfares increased 4.2 percent, and international airfares increased 6.2 percent in April on the previous month.

“Easter, school holidays, and Anzac Day fell in April this year,” Growden said.

“Airfares reflect pricing set up to 12 months in advance, so movements can be influenced by a range of factors.”

Annually, domestic airfares fell 6.9 percent, and international airfares fell 6.5 percent in the 12 months ended April.

‘Off the scale’ price rises sending people into debt

Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen told Midday Report the fuel price rises were “off the scale”.

“For the likes of diesel you’ve never seen anything like it, even for petrol things are bigger than they’ve ever been.”

He said the speed of the price rises has caught many firms by surprise and they had no chance of catching up in recovering the higher prices, while it also meant households having to reorganise their budgets.

“What do you plan for, because that uncertainty in the market, and how quickly those prices have shot up are a real concern.. we’ll be watching confidence and spending, how are people responding to this.”

Waikato student nurse and mother-of-four Poihaere Whare told Midday Report financial pressure was hitting hard for students all over New Zealand.

“We have to do what we do to get by and that’s including the bare necessities like food.

“I haven’t had fresh fruit and vegetables for a wee while… I always put myself last.”

She said every student was struggling differently and many had no choice but to get into Afterpay debt.

Whare said she tried to fill her car at times when it was cheaper, but did use Afterpay if she could not wait for those times.

“I’m a mum. I have to prioritise what’s important at the moment.”

She said her kura was offering her some support and many universities were offering hardship grants to students.

Food inflation falls

Offering some relief from fuel price rises were flat food prices for the month, and a slowdown in the annual food inflation rate.

Cheaper fruit and vegetables, notably kiwifruit and apples, along with legs of lamb offset slightly higher avocados, meat pies and chocolate blocks.

Annual food inflation slowed to 2.6 percent, the lowest rate since February 2025, with meat, coffee, and bread notable increases.

Electricity prices were the other significant price rise for the month, gaining 2.3 percent, taking the annual increase to 13.1 percent, while gas prices were up 10.4 percent for the year.

“Electricity prices have been increasing every month from December 2024,” Growden said.

The items represented about half the consumer price index and back forecasts of an inflation spike caused by the conflict.

Cash rate rises coming

ASB senior economist Mark Smith estimated the inflation spike for prices was about 1.3 percent for the month, although the overall survey was a bit softer than he expected.

“What appears to be apparent, however, is that consumer caution and the subdued demand backdrop is having more of a moderating impact on inflation.

He was forecasting annual inflation to hit 4.3 percent in the June quarter from 3.1 percent in March, with the outlook uncertain as to how long it would stay high.

But Smith said it was a certainty the Reserve Bank (RBNZ) would raise the official cash rate (OCR).

“We expect the RBNZ to begin normalising monetary policy settings from July, with hikes in 25 basis point increments and the OCR ending the year at 3.25 percent.”

“The timing is tricky, and the case can be made for an earlier (May) or later (September) start to OCR hikes.”

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

Luxon’s decision to provide Police with the power to issue move-on orders to homeless people as young as 14 will have disastrous consequences for our country and our most vulnerable, says the Green Party. 

“Christopher Luxon has chosen to make more people homeless, and now he’s criminalising them for being homeless,” says Green Party Co-leader and Auckland Central MP, Chlöe Swarbrick.

“It costs $200,000 a year to chuck someone in prison, for worse and worse outcomes. The Government refuses to spend a fraction of that on actually supporting people who need it, which not only would improve and save lives, but also save money in the long run as people are able to get back on their feet.”

“Police have been clear they’re not social service workers. Social services are crying out for the resources to actually solve the problem. The Government responded with cuts, and now criminalisation.”

“If you want to solve homelessness, house people. Instead, Luxon’s pushed more people into homelessness and is now criminalising people for not having a home, and nowhere else to go.”

“I’ve invited Luxon for two years to the streets of Auckland Central to meet the people, including the children, who his decisions have made homeless. He’s refused to engage. Today, he’s decided to lock up those as young as 14 for the ‘crime’ of not being able to get support.”

“This is not leadership. It’s punching down on the most vulnerable people you could imagine, after ripping away their support,” says Swarbrick

MIL OSI

Māori immunisation rates for two-year-old children are rising, according to new Health New Zealand (HNZ) figures.

Between late 2024 to the end of last month, immunisations for the age group had gone up by about 10 percentage points.

Rates for full immunisation at two years old went from 60 percent to 71.5 percent.

However, a gap remained between Māori and non-Māori immunisation rates.

“While the increase is encouraging, we acknowledge there is more work to be done,” HNZ said.

For the same period, the gap between Māori and non-Māori immunisation rates narrowed by 2.3 percentage points, from 14.3 percent to 12 percent.

Health New Zealand said the progress reflected the continued efforts of whānau, communities, and health providers working together to protect tamariki and support healthy futures.

The agency said it had been focused on improving immunisation uptake by bettering access to care, offering home visits to tamariki who are overdue on an immunisation.

“We remain committed to continuing this momentum, working alongside iwi, Hauora Māori partners, and communities to further improve immunisation rates.”

The government’s health targets set out in 2024 included improved immunisation.

Its goal was to see 95 percent of children fully immunised at 24 months of age, the same target as Australia, the UK and Canada.

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

The two people suspected to be responsible for the death of baby Soul Turany never discussed how the boy suffered his catastrophic head injuries, an inquest has heard.

Police say either the boy’s mother Storme Turany or her then-partner Tony Farmer must have inflicted the injuries that killed the 16-week-old, some time on the morning of 30 August, 2014 at their rural home near Darfield.

Soul died early on 31 August, 2014.

Clinicians have told the inquest into Soul’s death that he could not have injured himself, the person who did it would have known what they had done and Soul would have been unconscious soon after the assault.

Coroner Ian Telford advised Turany and Farmer of the privilege against self-incrimination before they gave evidence in Christchurch.

During more than nine hours on the stand Turany did not invoke that privilege and strenuously denied any involvement in her son’s death, instead pointing the finger at Farmer.

On Friday, Farmer also denied ever harming Soul.

A possibility put to Farmer by counsel assisting the coroner Jamie O’Sullivan was that, “You were not Soul’s father, you’ve been in a stressful situation, Storme’s snapping at you, you became stressed and annoyed at Soul?”

“No, I wasn’t,” Farmer responded.

“Have you ever become frustrated with Soul and handled him roughly?” O’Sullivan asked.

“No,” Farmer responded. Farmer said he had also never handled his own child roughly.

Asked what he would say in response to suggestions he had harmed Soul, Farmer said “that I didn’t”.

Farmer went to Soul’s funeral and stayed with Turany for several days afterwards.

He told the inquest he wanted to remain in a relationship with her.

“I loved Storme,” he said. “Maybe now I might not have been in as much love as I thought I had been, but at the time, yep.”

Farmer said the couple never spoke about how Soul died, despite both being told by police one of them must have caused the non-accidental injuries.

“She said she was confused, but we didn’t discuss anything to do with Soul or cause of death or anything like that,” he said.

Asked why not, he responded, “I don’t know – just neither of us did.

“Obviously she wasn’t doing too well. She was upset so I didn’t really want to bring it up. It sounds silly, such a raw subject. You might have questions but you don’t want to upset someone further.”

On the morning Soul was injured, he woke between 3am and 3.30am and was unsettled. Turany spent much of the morning trying to settle him, including giving the child paracetamol and a nasal spray.

Farmer admitted going into the child’s room and placing a dummy in his mouth while Turany prepared a bottle.

Soul was still unsettled at 5.29am and Farmer sent a message asking Turany if she wanted help.

Turany called Healthline at 6.23am but hung up after 17 seconds.

Turany then made a series of unanswered calls to her sister and left a voice message saying she was going to take Soul to hospital.

She again called Healthline.

Turany and Farmer agreed Soul was alert at this time. Soul was sitting on Farmer’s knee and Turany said she went outside at some stage during the nine-minute call.

Farmer and Turany agreed Soul was limp at the end of that call.

Clinicians told the inquest Soul’s fatal injuries were likely inflicted about six to 12 hours before his first scan at Christchurch Hospital at 10.20am on 30 August. They said he was likely unconscious immediately following the assault or very soon afterwards.

O’Sullivan asked Farmer if he had injured Soul while he was sitting on his lap.

“Is there anything you could have done with Soul that harmed him either accidentally or in another way?” she asked.

“No,” he said.

Farmer’s evidence is continuing on Friday.

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

The Warehouse Group’s third-quarter retail sales were down 1.4 percent on the year earlier, amid ongoing tough economic conditions.

However, on a year-earlier, like-for-like basis, total sales at retail stores the ‘Red Sheds’, Stationery and Noel Leeming were flat at $700.8 million for the period ended 4 May.

Group gross profit margin rose 50 basis points in the third quarter over the year earlier, and were up 10 basis points on the year to date, with growth in Stationery and Noel Leeming partially offset by a drop in Red Sheds.

Third-quarter sales by brand:

• The Warehouse Red Sheds fell 2.5 percent to $405.3m, down 0.8 percent on same store sales.
• Warehouse Stationery were down 2.9 percent to $57.1m, up 3.1 percent on same store sales.
• Noel Leeming sales up 0.7 percent to $236.6m, up 1.1 percent on same store sales

Group chief executive Mark Stirton said it was a stable result in an increasingly tough climate.

“As fuel prices rose, we saw customers become more conscious of travel, making fewer shopping trips but buying more when they visited our stores,” Stirton said.

Group foot traffic declined 1.8 percent during the quarter, though average customer basket size increased 2.7 percent.

Group online sales rose 5.4 percent, representing 6.8 percent of total 3qtr sales – an increase from 6.4 percent the year earlier. Noel Leeming stores saw particularly strong online growth.

Stirton said Noel Leeming will return to Auckland’s city centre this summer with the opening of a new flagship store at 192 Queen Street, after its previous Queen Street store closed in 2021.

Noel Leeming will return to Auckland’s city centre this summer. Screenshot / Google Maps

Noel Leeming chief executive Jason Bell said the new store reflected the growing importance of experience-led retail.

“We’re bringing Noel Leeming back to the city centre with a store designed to offer something different for customers,” he said.

“Alongside the latest technology, the Queen Street store will feature a more modern design and interactive product demos, gaming events and expert service, creating an exciting experience for customers.”

The store’s opening was expected to coincide with the launch of the City Rail Link and Te Waihorotiu station, expected this year.

Outlook

Stirton said trading conditions were expected to remain challenging, with inflationary pressures, global instability and an uncertain domestic economy continuing to affect consumers and businesses.

“We’re doing everything we can to balance providing everyday value for customers while managing the impact of higher costs on our business,” he said.

“In this environment, our priority is to stay focused on what we can control.”

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

Meridian Energy has won consent to build a large solar farm near Palmerston North.

The 120 megawatt solar farm in Bunnythorpe would be alongside an already consented battery energy storage system.

The solar farm would have about 250,000 solar panels, and Meridian said it could produce up to 225 gigawatt hours of electricity per year, enough to power around 30,000 average homes.

The project was still subject to a final investment decision by Meridian’s board, expected in the fourth quarter of 2027.

“Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in New Zealand’s electricity generation, and we’re excited to bring this to Manawatū,” Meridian’s general manager of development, Guy Waipara said.

Bunnythorpe Energy Park was part of $3 billion in investment on the cards by Meridian through to 2030, with the company (and their rivals) pursuing an aggressive strategy to build new renewable generation.

Meridian said the Manawatū project would create more than 100 local construction jobs, and up to $50m of local spending throughout construction.

The site would span 280 hectares between Ashhurst and Stoney Creek Roads, adjacent to Transpower’s Bunnythorpe substation.

Meridian was expecting to make final investment decisions on its Mt Munro wind farm in northern Wairarapa in late 2026, and its Te Rere Hau wind farm near Palmerston North in early 2027.

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

The Aussies have well and truly fallen off the Super Rugby Pacific pace.

After threatening to emulate the glory days of ACT Brumbies in the early rounds, the men from Canberra have collapsed dramatically, leaving the top four firmly in Kiwi hands.

Queensland Reds appear the only other genuine contenders from across the ditch, but couldn’t cash in at home against the Chiefs last week, leaving them to round out the top six.

The Hurricanes have kicked clear at the top, five points ahead of the second-placed Chiefs. The Blues and Crusaders both appear locked for the post-season.

The Highlanders need a miracle, if they are to progress to the playoffs, needing to beat both the Chiefs and Hurricanes to give themselves any chance.

A pair of cracking derbies headline this weekend’s round, with the Blues hosting the Hurricanes, while the Highlanders head to Hamilton to meet the Chiefs.

Both Moana Pasifika and the Crusaders have the week off.

Selection notes

Beauden Barrett returns to the Blues’ starting first-five jersey for his side’s crucial clash with the ‘Canes.

Anton Segner replaces Dalton Papali’i, who fractured his jaw against the Crusaders, while Xavi Taele also gets the start in the Blues midfield.

After mauling Moana Pasifika, the Hurricanes have made eight changes to the starting line-up, with Caleb Delany notching up his 50th game.

For the Chiefs, Damian McKenzie moves to fullback, while in-form Quinn Tupaea gets a rest, as Lalakai Foketi takes his place at second five.

The only change to the Highlanders line-up comes at centre, where Tanielu Tele’a replaces the suspended Jona Nareki.

Injury ward

Hurricanes workhorse Du’Plessis Kirifi is missing for the week with a knee injury, while Cam Roigard will remain sidelined for at least another two weeks with a calf complaint.

Chiefs lock Josh Lord is out with concussion, while the side’s back stocks are depleted, with Emoni Narawa, Leroy Carter and Etene Nanai-Seturo all missing from action.

Props Ben Ake and Sam Matega are both out for the Blues.

Finn Hurley is still unavailable for the Highlanders, due to a hamstring.

Key stats

The Chiefs are one away from their 250th Super Rugby win, a number matched only by the Crusaders, Brumbies and Hurricanes.

Hurricanes flyer Fehi Fineanganofo needs one more try to equal Ben Lam and Joe Roff’s season record of 16.

The Blues have won their last five against the Hurricanes at Eden Park.

Highlanders fullback Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens leads the competition with 10 try assists.

The Chiefs average the most metres this season with 529 per game.

Chiefs v Highlanders

Kickoff 7.05pm, Friday, 15 May

FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton

Live blog updates on RNZ

Chiefs: 1. Ollie Norris, 2. Samisoni Taukei’aho, 3. Sione Ahio, 4. Seuseu Naitoa Ah Kuoi, 5. Tupou Vaa’i (vc), 6. Simon Parker, 7. Luke Jacobson (c), 8. Wallace Sititi, 9. Xavier Roe, 10. Josh Jacomb, 11. Kyren Taumoefolau, 12. Lalakai Foketi, 13. Kyle Brown, 14. Liam Coombes-Fabling, 15. Damian McKenzie

Bench: 16. Brodie McAlister, 17. Benét Kumeroa, 18. George Dyer, 19. Fiti Sa, 20. Samipeni Finau, 21. Cortez Ratima, 22. Daniel Rona, 23. Isaac Hutchinson

“It will be important this week against a very combative Highlanders defence that we can shift the point of attack quickly and effectively. We had a tough battle against them in round two and are preparing for more of the same this week at home.”

Chiefs coach Jonno Gibbes

Highlanders: 1. Ethan de Groot (cc), 2. Jack Taylor, 3. Angus Ta’avao, 4. Tomás Lavanini, 5. Mitch Dunshea, 6. Te Kamaka Howden, 7. Lucas Casey, 8. Nikora Broughton, 9. Adam Lennox, 10. Cameron Millar, 11. Jonah Lowe, 12. Timoci Tavatavanawai (cc), 13. Tanielu Tele’a, 14. Caleb Tangitau, 15. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens

Bench: 16. Henry Bell, 17. Daniel Lienert-Brown, 18. Saula Ma’u, 19. Oliver Haig, 20. Sean Withy, 21. Veveni Lasaqa, 22. Folau Fakatava, 23. Taine Robinson

“It’s hard to get wins, and so when you get those real tight ones and let them slip, it really hurts you at this end of the season.”

Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph

Blues v Hurricanes

Kickoff 7.05pm, Saturday, 16 May

Eden Park, Auckland

Live blog updates on RNZ

Blues: 1. Ofa Tu’ungafasi, 2. Bradley Slater, 3. Marcel Renata, 4. Patrick Tuipulotu (c), 5. Sam Darry, 6. Malachi Wrampling, 7. Anton Segner, 8. Hoskins Sotutu, 9. Sam Nock, 10. Beauden Barrett, 11. Caleb Clarke, 12. Pita Ahki, 13. Xavi Taele, 14. AJ Lam, 15. Zarn Sullivan

Bench: 16. Kurt Eklund, 17. Mason Tupaea, 18. Flyn Yates, 19. Laghlan McWhannell, 20. Torian Barnes, 21. Che Clark, 22. Finlay Christie, 23. Stephen Perofeta

“The Hurricanes are in top form, so we know the challenge in front of us, and the focus is on delivering an accurate, physical performance.”

Blues coach Vern Cotter

Hurricanes: 1. Xavier Numia, 2. Asafo Aumua, 3. Pasilio Tosi, 4. Caleb Delany, 5. Warner Dearns, 6. Brad Shields, 7. Peter Lakai, 8. Devan Flanders, 9. Ereatara Enari, 10. Ruben Love, 11. Kini Naholo, 12. Jordie Barrett (c), 13. Billy Proctor, 14. Fehi Fineanganofo, 15. Callum Harkin

Bench: 16. Raymond Tuputupu, 17. Pouri Rakete-Stones, 18. Siale Lauaki, 19. Isaia Walker-Leawere, 20. Brayden Iose, 21. Jordi Viljoen, 22. Jone Rova, 23. Bailyn Sullivan

“We’re well aware of the threat that the Blues possess. I’m sure they’re highly motivated about the opportunity to beat us and continue that fight for the top two. It’s going to be a highly physical and exciting game.”

Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw

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A child has died and six people have been injured, one critically, after a house fire in Christchurch.

Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand have started inquiries after the child died at the scene of the fire in Mairehau.

One person received critical injuries, three were in a serious to moderate condition, and two received minor injuries, police said on Friday.

The injured are two adults and four children and they were all transported to hospital.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan says a scene guard was put in place at the property overnight.

“Police will be carrying out a scene examination today, including working with Fire and Emergency New Zealand fire investigators.”

The cause of the fire is still to be determined, but it is not believed to be suspicious.

Emergency services were called at about 8.25pm on Thursday.

An RNZ reporter at the scene on Friday morning says neighbours told her a family had lived there.

RNZ understands neighbours helped people who had come out of the house.

The reporter said she has been told by one neighbour that they saw “very high flames” when they came outside last night.

Emergency services were called to the property on Whitehall Street at around 8.25pm.

Christchurch Metro Area Commander Superintendent Lane Todd said emergency services remained at the scene late on Thursday night.

Cordons remain in place on Whitehall Street and Hills Road.

At first, it was unclear how many people were in the house.

“Reports were made that a house was on fire with people unaccounted for,” Todd said in a previous statement.

Firefighters, police and St John staff were at the scene last night alongwith Police Commissioner Richard Chambers who briefly attended.

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Police, and Fire and Emergency New Zealand, enquiries are underway after one person died following a house fire in Mairehau.

Emergency services were called to a house on Whitehall Street at around 8.25pm on 14 May.

Sadly, a child died at the scene.

One person received critical injuries, three were in a serious to moderate condition, and two received minor injuries. The injured are two adults and four children and were all transported to hospital.

Detective Senior Sergeant Jo Carolan, says a scene guard was put in place at the property overnight.

“Police will be carrying out a scene examination today, including working with Fire and Emergency New Zealand Fire Investigators.”

The cause of the fire is still to be determined, but it is not believed to be suspicious.

At this stage, there is no further information available.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Investor confidence fell to 6% in the March quarter, down five percentage points from the previous quarter after stabilising late last year, ASB’s latest Investor Confidence survey shows.

ASB Senior Economist Chris Tennent-Brown says global events played a clear role in shaping sentiment during the quarter.

“The change in mood was especially clear in March, which aligns with the timing of recent global developments. These events tend to amplify uncertainty, even if the underlying economic fundamentals have not materially changed,” says Chris.

Younger investors stood out as a relative bright spot. Net confidence among those under 30 rose to 21%, up from 16% in the previous quarter, while confidence declined for all other age groups. Confidence in KiwiSaver among under-30s also lifted, increasing to 23% from 16%.

Chris says it is important to distinguish between confidence levels and actual market performance.

“While confidence has dipped, the world’s major sharemarkets have continued to perform well, albeit with bouts of volatility. KiwiSaver, managed funds and global share markets have recovered from earlier volatility, with US equities back trading around their highs,” he says.

”Markets are forward-looking and tend to move quickly, which is why making reactive changes based on short-term sentiment can be counterproductive.”

During the quarter, New Zealanders have stuck with familiar, long-term investment options. In terms of perception of best return, respondents rated their own home and KiwiSaver jointly as the investments most likely to provide the best returns, with both options selected by 16% of respondents, while rental property also rose over the quarter.

Overall, the survey reinforces the importance of maintaining a long-term focus, even when confidence softens.

“A key message for investors is to stay anchored to a well-planned, long-term investment strategy rather than reacting to short-term noise,” says Chris.

Notes:

ASB has tracked investor confidence in the NZ market since 1997. This analysis is based on 727 online interviews in Q1 2026 with adults aged 18 years and older throughout New Zealand.  A sample of this size has a maximum margin of error of 3.6% at the 95% confidence level.  Fieldwork occurred between 7th January and 1st April 2026.

MIL OSI

A Māori-led methamphetamine recovery programme in Gisborne is being hailed as a global leader in addiction research and recovery.

He Haerenga ki te Whakaora, run by Mātai Medical Research, combined clinical science with mātauranga Māori to support people recovering from methamphetamine addiction.

The programme had successfully helped participants achieve sustained abstinence and Senior Research Associate Wendy Mohi said it’s the result of a collective commitment to embracing the knowledge of two worlds.

“Te ao Māori ensures wraparound support for the entire whānau and helps maintain a broader focus on physical, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.”

Participants were given access to advanced MRI imaging, psychometric testing and cognitive assessments administered by neurological, cardiological and psychological experts.

“With MRI scans whai ora (participants) see for themselves the impact meth use has on their brain and heart. There are specific areas of the brain impacted and there’s a kind of shading and deflation where the damage is. “

Mohi said access to such valuable technology and expertise also helps identify underlying health issues that need to be considered.

“As they continue on their abstinence journey, they can literally see the damaged areas of their brain and heart start to recover and it’s a huge motivation for them.”

Meth use remains high

The latest national data shows methamphetamine use in Aotearoa has risen sharply since 2024, with Māori disproportionately affected compared with non-Māori.

National wastewater testing data from police was released in March which estimated 34.7 kilograms of methamphetamine was consumed each week across the country during the final three months of 2025.

Mohi, a former police sergeant, said she saw firsthand the destruction methamphetamine caused and the gaps in long-term support.

“There are services out there, but not enough – and too many work in isolation. Rehab clinics get people clean, but they’re often sent back to the places and people that fostered their addiction with no ongoing support.”

‘World leading’ research

Sarah Helm, Executive Director of New Zealand Drug Foundation, said the research underpinning the programme is groundbreaking.

“It’s world leading – and it potentially turns how we view drug use and addiction on its head.”

Helm said the programme was attracting international attention not just for its results, but for the way it combined science with culture.

“To have a little kaupapa Māori research outfit in Gisborne leading the way globally is staggering.”

She said the programme’s strength lied in integrating clinical science with mātauranga Māori rather than treating them as competing approaches.

“It’s the combination that’s proving more effective.”

ADHD link emerging

Helm said the programme was also enhancing understanding of the impact undiagnosed or untreated ADHD could have on addiction treatment.

“Because they are treating the person, not just a condition, they’ve helped long term meth users with ADHD achieve sustained abstinence.”

Mohi said most whai ora in the programme’s initial cohort were diagnosed with ADHD

The ongoing study has found people without access to medication or diagnosis were often using meth to treat the symptoms they’re experiencing.

“They weren’t using meth to get high or get a buzz, they were using meth to maintain the energy to function normally.”

Helm says there is very little research available that explores ADHD and its potential connection to addiction.

“If there are health reasons for people using substances, we can offer them a better approach.”

Research from the first cohort showed sustained abstinence and stronger reconnection with iwi, whānau and the wider community.

Treaty partnership in practice

For those behind the programme, the outcomes reflect what meaningful partnership under Te Tiriti o Waitangi could achieve.

Both Mohi and Helm said systems designed without Māori partnership often miss critical aspects needed for long-term recovery.

Helm said community response to the programme had been overwhelming.

“We’ve been met with resounding confirmation – this makes sense to people.”

For Mohi, the programme’s impact goes beyond the data.

“Once they know who they are, there’s no stopping them.”

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A long-awaited coastal Wellington cycleway in the Hutt Valley has come up short for some cyclists, after leaving “strings of kids on bikes heading into traffic” near Eastbourne.

The $80 million Tupua Horo Nuku – a 4km seawall, and shared cycle and walking path along Marine Drive – opened in April.

The cycleway joins Point Howard to Eastbourne – or almost – as it abruptly stops for almost a kilometre across Days Bay, forcing cyclists to cross oncoming traffic and ride alongside cars without a path.

Some locals, like Kava Crosson-Elturan, have raised concerns about this gap.

He said seeing families and kids show up to the opening weekend was wonderful, but he described some of them ending up in a tricky situation.

He pointed to where the cycleway ended around the corner from Sunshine Bay into Days Bay.

“Right through here was especially dangerous, where we had strings of kids on bikes heading into traffic.”

Crosson-Elturan said it was “unfortunate to see” a “lack of planning”, when it came to a long-awaited project, which he thoroughly supported.

Residents agreed the seawall offered much-needed protection from tides and bad weather, and many were excited to use the shared paths.

“I live in Days Bay, so am familiar with the corner and the project,” Local MP and Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Chris Bishop said. “I think everyone agrees the Days Bay section is not great, but it is also a tricky problem to solve, given the obvious constraints.

“I know the council is looking at it and has done so, but there are no easy answers.”

Hutt City Council explained that Days Bay was not included in plans for the seawall and shared path, because it already had “some safe facilities for pedestrians and increased widths for on-road cyclists”. It confirmed that Days Bay was not “shovel-ready” and therefore development of a path there could not have been covered by COVID funding, which made the rest of the project possible.

It had added line markings to guide path users, while a link was finalised, but some residents have struggled with the layout.

Last weekend, Eastbourne resident Jessica Haines was was looking forward to trying out the cycleway with her kids to visit their grandparents in Days Bay.

“We thought it was an awesome opportunity, rather than driving, to jump on our bikes and come around.”

They ran out of path coming into Days Bay and did not know where to cycle safely.

“It was a bit scary,” she explained. “I was yelling at my son, ‘Hendrix, stop there!’

“The shared pathway ends and you end up in traffic. The other option is a very slim pathway, but then you risk bumping into people coming out of their cars to go to the beach.”

The experience made her more cautious about using the path.

Haines said how pedestrians and cyclists navigate this area needed more consideration, and was already an issue during summertime.

She wasn’t sure of the best way to address the problem, as all options would mean losing either a bit of green, beach or parking spaces.

Father-of-two Will agreed that it was especially dangerous for young children.

“For us, it hasn’t worked out, because we’re not really able to actually make it into Day’s Bay safely with the kids. The path just ends and you’re trapped there.”

He was surprised and disappointed that the council had not thought to add a crossing or markings to guide people.

“I think it’s just such a cool thing that they’ve done and I think everyone who’s used it thinks it’s really great as well, but then it just seems that there’s this massive oversight. It seems like someone without kids has thought of this.”

However, the missing link did not deter keen cyclist Peter Healy, who has used the path most days.

“Probably six days a week, I’m on the bike away, rain or shine.”

It has been a fantastic addition to his life, making getting out of the house easier in his retirement.

“I can ride safely. I can put my grandkids on it and we can whiz around, and not get bowled by a bus.”

He said it could be easily fixed.

“At the moment, there’s a bit of a gap here, but it’s just a bit of paint,” he said. “They’ll work it out.”

Hutt City Council economy & development director Jon Kingsbury said a link between Sunshine Bay and Days Bay was underway, and would be presented to the Eastbourne Community Board. It would include a path to separate pedestrians and cyclists from cars.

He added that a path through Days Bay would have resulted in the loss of carparking on Marine Drive.

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For the next 11 days, Raglan is set to shift from laid-back surf town to the centre stage of world surfing.

The World Surf League arrives at Manu Bay on Friday, marking the first time New Zealand has hosted a combined men’s and women’s Championship Tour event.

The world’s best surfers, global media crews, sponsors, influencers and fans have descended on Whāingaroa as the usually quiet coastal community takes on a festival atmosphere.

Crowds of up to 7000 are expected to gather along headlands and the shoreline to watch elite surfers tackle one of the most famous left-hand breaks in the world.

Who are the big names to look out for?

Brazil continues to dominate the men’s Championship Tour, with a core group of surfers setting the pace in recent seasons.

Gabriel Medina is an Olympic and three-time world champion known for his powerful, precise surfing and ability to deliver under pressure in high-stakes heats.

Italo Ferreira, surfing’s first Olympic gold medallist at the Tokyo Games, brings explosive energy and a fast, dynamic approach that can quickly swing a heat.

Yago Dora represents the progressive edge of the tour, with aerial manoeuvres and high-risk, high-reward surfing that can produce huge scores.

In the women’s field, Australia’s strength is clear.

Stephanie Gilmore, an eight-time world champion, remains one of the most accomplished competitors in the sport, known for her smooth, controlled and highly refined style. Alongside her, Molly Picklum has emerged as one of the tour’s rising forces, combining modern power surfing with growing competitive consistency.

What about the local hopes?

New Zealand’s challenge is led by Billy Stairmand, the country’s most experienced competitor and a proven performer in powerful left-hand waves like Manu Bay. He will carry much of the home expectation in familiar conditions.

Wildcard Tom Butland adds a free-swinging X-factor, entering the Championship Tour with local knowledge and nothing to lose.

Fifteen-year-old wildcard Alani Morse is one of the youngest surfers in the field, earning her place after winning a qualifying event in Raglan. A homegrown talent from Whāingaroa, she arrives with strong local backing and a rapid rise through the New Zealand junior ranks, now stepping onto surfing’s biggest stage.

What’s special about Raglan as a venue?

The competition will be centred on Manu Bay, one of the country’s most famous breaks and a long, perfectly formed left-hander that peels along a volcanic reef. Its combination of consistency, ride length and natural amphitheatre viewing makes it a rare venue capable of hosting Championship Tour surfing.

How does the competition work?

Competitive surfing is basically a knockout tournament held in the ocean, where athletes compete in timed “heats” and try to catch the best waves available during that window.

On the championship tour, the opening and elimination rounds typically feature heats with three surfers, the top two advancing. From then on it’s one-on-one until the trophies are given out.

Heats are around 20-30 minutes long, and during that time surfers can ride as many waves as they like, but only their best two are counted toward their score.

Each wave is scored out of 10, and the two highest-scoring waves are combined. For example, a surfer scoring 8.5 and 7.0 would have a total of 15.5. Surfers with the highest combined scores advance to the next round.

How does the judging work?

There are no goals, laps or finish lines-just waves. Judges score each ride out of 10 based on factors including speed, power, flow, difficulty, variety of manoeuvres and degree of risk.

The emphasis is on the quality and progression of performance rather than simple completion.

Why can’t I find a schedule online?

There is no fixed schedule for the event. Surfing is one of the few professional sports dictated entirely by nature and it can be a waiting game.

As a result, the event runs within a flexible window rather than on fixed competition days, with organisers choosing when to run heats based on swell, wind and tide conditions. The Raglan event is set down from 15-25 May, with the competition expected to be held over four to six days within this 11-day window. Organisers will make “daily status calls” each morning to determine if conditions are suitable to run the heats that day.

Can you talk me through some of the lingo?

Surfing comes with its own shorthand.

A “set” refers to a group of waves arriving together, often the most valuable scoring opportunities in a heat. “Priority” determines who has the right of way to choose or take the next wave.

A “barrel” or “tube” describes the hollow section of a breaking wave that surfers aim to ride inside.

“Drop-in” is when a surfer takes off on a wave already being ridden by someone else – usually a penalty-inducing mistake.

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For the first time in her career, CJ Bott has had to learn how to lead without crossing the white line.

The Wellington Phoenix captain has spent much of the club’s breakthrough A-League season watching from the sidelines, since her https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/584796/phoenix-captain-cj-bott-announces-pregnancy pregnancy announcement] i January.

There was never any chance she would miss Saturday’s grand final against Melbourne City at AAMI Park though.

“I’m definitely travelling,” Bott said. “You wouldn’t be able to hold me at home just yet.

“I’ve still got a few more weeks until I’m medically unable to travel, so I’m making the most of it. I’ll be there with bells and whistles, and I’ll lose my voice screaming on the sidelines.”

Bott played seven matches at the start of the season, before stepping away from playing duties, remaining involved with the squad in an off-field leadership role, as the Phoenix surged to the first grand final in the team’s five-year history.

She described her second season with the Phoenix was “definitely a different season”.

“It started off well, being on the field, and then having to take a step back, because of the pregnancy, it took a little bit to get used to and was a tough pill to swallow in many ways, because all I want to do is be out there and doing my part with the team.

“I think as the season’s progressed, and our new signings have stepped up and really embraced their roles, and the rest of the girls have also stepped up, they’ve done such an incredible job.

“I mean, there’s been some nailbiting moments of the season, but overall, they’ve done incredibly well and I’m just so proud of how they’ve handled the season.”

Coach Bev Priestman was determined to keep Bott closely involved this season, because of her leadership and experience within the group.

“It did take a little while to see where I best fit into that role, because I wanted to give [Mackenzie Barry] the time and the space and the energy and support to do her role as captain as well.

“It’s taken a bit of adjustment, but I think now I’ve figured out where I’m best fitted, and I really just try and support the girls in whatever way and whatever capacity they need me.”

Defender Emma Pijnenburg, who replaced Bott in the squad, said the Football Ferns international remained an influential figure within the team.

“She just has this aura and, when she speaks in the circle, everybody is hanging on to every word,” Pijnenburg said. “She has a lot of experience as well, a senior player in the team, and she brings a lot to the team, whether she is on the field or not,” .

The Phoenix finished the season in second place and came from behind to win the two-legged semifinal against Brisbane Roar to secure the grand final match-up, but Bott said it was not all plain sailing to get to the pinnacle game of the season.

“I don’t think it’s a shock, given the team we had at the start of the season, but based on all our injuries and unfortunate events that have occurred during the season, it is somewhat of a surprise that we’ve somehow managed to keep our heads above water and still perform, given all the difficulties this team’s been through.

“The season has been so important towards the development of women’s football in this country, in this city specifically, and I’m so excited to see what can happen in the weekend.”

Watching from the sidelines has not come naturally to Bott.

“I hate it,” she said. “It is so hard just sitting there and not being able to do anything, but I’ve had to embrace it.

“I’ve got no other choice in the matter and the girls need me no matter what. I’ve just had to bite my nails quietly and just be their biggest cheerleader.”

Bott arrived at her hometown club last season, after eight years playing professionally in Germany, Sweden, Norway and England, and was surprised by the level of professionalism at the Phoenix.

“I didn’t quite know what to expect coming in,” she said. “I knew they had access to world-class facilities, but I think that’s one thing, having the backing from the wider club and having the staff involved.

“Our staff are incredible, they are probably some of the most professional staff I’ve ever had.

“Besides the fact that a lot of our girls have to, unfortunately, work two jobs, it is the most professional environment I’ve probably been a part of and it’s the most enjoyable environment I’ve been a part of in a long, long time.”

Bott is off contract at the end of this season and definitely has plans to return to football in the future, and “absolutely” would like that to be with the Phoenix.

Before she can think about her playing future, she will have to handle a few more “nervewracking” moments in the stands, as the Phoenix women play for the club’s first piece of silverware.

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