Five councils – Hutt City, Porirua City, Upper Hutt City, Wellington City and Greater Wellington – have today submitted a joint water services delivery plan to the Government.
The Metropolitan Wellington Water Services Delivery Plan (WSDP) is based on establishing a new multi-council-owned water organisation in partnership with Mana whenua iwi Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika. The new organisation, with the interim name Metro Water, is due to take over from Wellington Water Ltd on 1 July 2026.
The plan says that Metro Water will have the resources, independence, and region-wide perspective to effectively manage and improve drinking water, wastewater and stormwater services for current and future communities, rather than being limited by council funding, electoral and decision-making cycles.
The plan meets the requirements of the Government’s Local Water Done Well policy.
The next steps in establishing Metro Water are underway, including finalising key documents such as the councils’ Statement of Expectations for Metro Water and principles for a Customer Charter, and recruiting Establishment Board directors and an interim Chief Executive.
Northlanders issued infringement notices for breaching environmental rules will find the experience more costly from early September after central government significantly increased the penalties involved.
Colin Dall, the Northland Regional Council’s Group Manager – Regulatory Services – says the changes take effect on 04 September under the Resource Management (Infringement Offences) Amendment Regulations 2025.
He says previous fines ranged from $300 to a maximum of $1000 but the new penalties range from $600 to maximum of $4000.
“Under the changes, fines are different for individuals and companies, with company fines effectively double that of individuals.”
Mr Dall says the council issued 153 Infringement Notices over the 12 months to June 30, the bulk (85) for discharging a contaminant to land where it may enter water, most of which were dairy effluent-related.
The next most common notices were 16 for discharging a contaminant to land/air (mostly smoke nuisance), 13 for discharging a contaminant to air from an industrial or trade premises (mainly for open burning) and 11 for land use in contravention of a regional rule.
Mr Dall says under the new regime individuals breaching the rules will see the penalties for a land use contravention go from $300 to $1500.
“Discharge to air (including burning fines) contraventions will go from $300 to $600, discharge of contaminants to water (or where likely to get to water) will go from $750 to $1500 and discharge from industrial or trade premises will go from $1000 to $2000.”
Penalties for contravening an Abatement Notice will increase from $750 to $2000.
“For companies the penalties have increased much more steeply.”
“Land use contravention will go from $300 to $3000, discharge of contaminants to water (or where likely to get to water) from $750 to $3000 and discharge from industrial or trade premises will increase from $1000 to $4000.”
For companies contravening an Abatement Notice the penalty goes from $750 to $4000.
Those burning on an industrial or trade premise where it is non-compliant will face a $2000 penalty.
“These new penalties are the first time the fines have been increased since early 2000.”
“We encourage everyone to familiarise themselves with the appropriate information before undertaking activities that could lead to potential breaches of our rules and regulations.”
Mr Dall says people can contact the council for advice on (0800) 002 004 if they had any doubts about an activity they were about to undertake.
Positioning Bangkok as a global luxury watch hub, Siam Paragon presents “Bangkok Watch Week 2025” from September 23–28, a phenomenal horology event bringing together the world’s most prestigious timepieces.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 August 2025 – Siam Paragon once again underscores its global prominence by creating a landmark phenomenon that reinforces Bangkok’s position as a world-class hub of watch culture. By partnering with leading international brands, “Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025” is intentionally held annually to become one of the most anticipated watch events for watch enthusiasts worldwide. Taking place from 23–28 September 2025 at Siam Paragon, the event will welcome founders and senior executives from around the globe, representing 26 of the world’s leading watch brands. This landmark gathering highlights the allure and unique identity of luxury timepieces. Enthusiasts will be treated to exclusive experiences, from special exhibitions and showcases to the debut of the latest collections, the unveiling of rare pieces from renowned collectors, and immersive workshops hosted by iconic brands. Highlights also include a live watch assembly demonstration by Swiss master watchmakers.
Siam Paragon partners with 26 legendary global brands, reinforcing its position as the “Hub of Horological Culture”
Siam Paragon solidifies its position as Thailand’s ultimate Luxury Watch Destination, home to the largest collection of world-class watch brands in the country, and continues its graceful journey of transformation into the new “Hub of Horological Culture” for Southeast Asia. This historic collaboration brings together legendary and globally renowned watch maisons, including A. Lange & Söhne, Bvlgari, Breitling, Bovet, Boucheron, Cartier, Chopard, Franck Muller, Grand Seiko, Girard-Perregaux, H. Moser & Cie, Hublot, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Jaquet Droz, Laurent Ferrier, Louis Erard, Omega, Panerai, Piaget, TAG Heuer, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Ulysse Nardin, Vacheron Constantin, and Zenith. Together, these iconic names have made history at “Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025,” a phenomenal showcase that celebrates the artistry, heritage, and untold stories behind the world’s most prestigious timepieces.
The event highlights the rich culture of timepieces, showcasing both exquisite craftsmanship and cutting-edge innovation. It offers watch lovers and enthusiasts the opportunity to gain knowledge, immerse themselves in unique experiences, and celebrate the splendor and impressiveness of watchmaking together in an exclusive atmosphere.
Mrs. Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Managing Director, Siam Paragon Business Unit, stated, “The luxury watch market in Asia and Thailand continues to demonstrate steady growth over the decade, driven by both passionate collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate exceptional design and craftsmanship. Watches today are no longer regarded merely as lifestyle instruments for telling time, but as symbols of refined taste and personal success, while being increasingly considered valuable investments in today’s world. Furthermore, this underlines Thailand’s potential as a Global Luxury Watch Destination. As the home of the largest collection of world-class watch brands, Siam Paragon is dedicated to elevating the country’s luxury watch landscape to international prominence through Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025 — the first and only annual event of its kind in Southeast Asia. It’s an event that unites high-level executives from leading watch brands worldwide, offering a unique opportunity for them to connect and share inspiration intimately with timepiece aficionados. This truly marks a new chapter for the region’s luxury watch sector.”
The Symposium: A momentous event attended by brand founders and top executives
One of the highlights of the event is “The Symposium,” a premier platform for storytelling and the exchange of ideas about watchmaking culture. The stage will feature brand founders, senior executives, master watchmakers from world-class brands, and seasoned veterans from the global watch industry, all traveling specially to participate. Held on a grand scale, the Bangkok Watch Week Pavilion at Parc Paragon will be transformed into a captivating world of time. The symposium will cover a range of engaging topics, including the opening session, “Moments That Last: Thailand as a Luxury Destination for Watch Culture, Storytelling, and Legacy.”
The event will also feature unmissable highlights from leading watch brands, including:
“The Symposium on TAG HEUER Avant-Garde Horlogerie” with Mr. Brice Tchaplyguine, Managing Director, SEA, Australia & Korea, TAG Heuer.
“The Symposium on 160 Years of Watchmaking Excellence: Where Heritage Inspires Innovation” with Mr. Romain Marietta, Chief Products Officer, Zenith.
“The Symposium on Panerai Innovation from the Depths” with Mr. Carlos Da Costa Saraiva, Head of Customer Service, Panerai.
“The Symposium on The Irresistible Charm of LAURENT FERRIER: A Journey into The Heart of Quiet Luxury” with Mr. Robert Bailey, Spokesperson, Laurent Ferrier.
“The Symposium on 2025 Novelties with Grand Seiko” with Mr. Munehisa Shibasaki, Senior Vice President of Seiko Watch Corporation and Head of Grand Seiko Global Division.
“The Symposium on Very Rare: The Art of Being an Independent Watchmaker with H. MOSER & CIE” with Mr. Bertrand Meylan, Co-Founder of H. Moser & Cie.
“The Symposium on Bovet: The Journey of Time” with Mr. Pascal Raffy, owner and CEO of Bovet.
“The Symposium on The Artisans Code: An Insight into Chopard’s L.U.C Collection” with Mr. Karl-Fritz Scheufele, Business & Client Strategy Manager, Chopard.
“The Symposium on Breitling: The Iconic Navitimer, Then and Now” with Mr. Alvin Soon, President of Breitling Asia.
The event will also host several in-depth sessions offering a behind-the-scenes look at the art of watchmaking, moderated by Mr. Wei Koh, a renowned authority in the field. Key discussions included:
“Shape of Time” with Ms. Emmanuelle Kouakou, Managing Director Southeast Asia & Oceania, Piaget and Ms. Lesley Co, Managing Director Southeast Asia & Oceania, Panerai
“The Art & Precision of Skeletonised Watchmaking” with Mr. Nicholas Rudaz, CEO of Franck Muller.
“Independent Brands: The Evolution of Product Development” with Mr. Ong Ban, CEO of Sincere Fine Watches (Pendulum), and Mr. Xavier de Roquemaurel, CEO of Czapek and Mr. Pascal Raffy CEO of Bovet.
“The Aesthetics of Speed and Altitude” with Mr. Christian Knoop, Chief Design Officer, IWC Schaffhausen.
Mr. Alain Delamuraz, CEO of Jaquet Droz, will also attend, adding further prestige to the sessions.
Experience exclusive exhibitions and immersive showcases featuring priceless timepieces.
Additionally, watch enthusiasts can immerse themselves in “The Experience,” a curated journey showcasing unique innovations from 26 world-class watch brands at their respective boutiques. Exclusive activities from six renowned maisons, including “160 Years of Zenith: Celebrating Horological Milestones” with Zenith; a watchmaking demonstration by A. Lange & Söhne; a watch design showcase by IWC Schaffhausen; a Spring Drive movement assembly demonstration by Grand Seiko; special interactive experiences by Omega; and an exclusive gouache session by Boucheron. All activities take place at the Crystal Court on the 2nd floor of Siam Paragon.
There is also “The Exhibition,” a showcase of the latest, never-before-seen watch models. Visitors can admire limited-edition timepieces, masterpieces distinguished by their creative complexity, rare watches, and private collections from world-class collectors — including priceless museum-quality pieces from 20 iconic brands. The exhibition is presented at the Hall of Fame and Hall of Mirrors on the M Floor of Siam Paragon.
Get ready for Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025, a world-class watch event that will elevate Bangkok as the epicenter of watch culture and a premier destination for enthusiasts across Southeast Asia. Taking place from 23–28 September 2025, the event promises an extraordinary celebration of luxury timepieces. For more details, updates, and registration, visit www.bangkokwatchweek.com or follow Facebook: SIAMPARAGON.
Headline: Meridian and Nova finalise joint venture and financing for Te Rahui solar farm
Meridian Energy and Nova Energy have formed a 50-50 joint venture to build and operate the 400MW Te Rahui solar farm near Taupō, with $300 million in financing secured from ANZ for the first 200MW phase. Phase one is expected to deliver power from mid-2026 and, once fully complete in 2027, the project will supply enough renewable electricity for around 100,000 homes, strengthening New Zealand’s energy security and supporting its transition to a more resilient, affordable grid.
Finance Minister Nicola Willis has thanked departing Reserve Bank Chair Neil Quigley for his contribution to the Bank after 15 years as a board member and nine as Chair.
Mr Quigley today tendered his resignation from the board and as Board Chair with immediate effect.
“Mr Quigley has decided that having overseen a number of key workstreams for the Bank, now is the appropriate time for him to hand over to a new Chair.
“Mr Quigley departs with a new funding agreement in place, a major review of capital settings out for consultation and the recruitment of a new Governor well-advanced.
“He leaves the Bank well-positioned for the future. I thank him for his service and wish him well for the future.
“Deputy Chair Rodger Finlay will exercise the functions of chair until an appointment is made.
“Mr Quigley’s departure creates a vacancy on the board which will be filled in due course.”
Two men have been arrested after West Coast Police found three firearms, a cannabis grow room, drug paraphernalia and stolen property.
As part of a pre-planned operation, two warrants were executed in the Hokitika area about 7:30am on Wednesday (27 August).
Police located three firearms, a cannabis grow room, dried cannabis, utensils for cannabis and methamphetamine, and stolen property.
“Taking more guns off the streets is a win for our whole community,” says Senior Sergeant Brent Cook, West Coast Response Manager.
“Unfortunately, where we find drug operations, we often find guns, which are both damaging to the West Coast public.
“Police will continue to shut down grow operations wherever we find them.
“These arrests continue on from good Police work earlier in the week, where officers seized over 100 cannabis plants, a firearm and ammunition in Cobden.
“It’s also been great to get stolen property back to its owner.”
A 61-year-old man is due to appear on charges of cultivating and procuring/ possessing cannabis, burglary, possession of methamphetamine utensils, receiving stolen property, and possession of restricted weapon.
A 33-year-old man is due to appear on charges of burglary, receiving stolen property, procuring cannabis, and possession of a cannabis utensil.
Both are due to appear in Greymouth District Court on 3 September.
Snow is expected to keep falling in the South Island as we move into spring over the next few days and road users are urged to be cautious on affected state highways.
Following a closure this morning of State Highway 7/Lewis Pass because of snow, further snowfalls are expected to affect SH7 at least through until Monday, according to forecasts supplied to New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).
The forecasts show there is a risk of heavy snow in the Lewis Pass area on Monday before 10am, with 5 to 10cm above 750m. Lesser amounts of snow are expected over the weekend.
On State Highway 73, snow showers are expected through to Monday in and around Arthur’s Pass and east of Craigieburn Cutting.
Gusty winds and rain are also forecast for these areas over the next few days.
In the Mackenzie Basin, there is a risk of about 2cm of snow falling in places on State Highways 8 and 80 on both Sunday and Tuesday.
NZTA system manager for the central South Island, Mark Pinner, says roading crews will be ready to respond to snow accumulating on the highways.
“Our focus will be keeping those highways open and safe for people to travel on. If the risk is too high, we may close the roads or put in place temporary speed reductions. Road users can play their part by planning ahead and driving to the conditions.”
“The usual messages apply for driving in winter conditions – be visible, reduce your speed, adjust your travelling distance behind other motorists and avoid sudden braking or turning movements.”
On State Highway 94 Milford Road, MetService is predicting 10 to 20cm of snow may settle near the summit through to Saturday night, with lesser amounts down to 700 metres.
The road will close from 5pm today between Hollyford Junction and Donne River bridge and is expected to reopen tomorrow when the road is clear.
Snow showers are also expected this afternoon for the Queenstown area.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) is seeking public feedback on a proposal to lower the speed limit on a busy stretch of State Highway 3 (SH3) in Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth.
The proposal would reduce the current 80km/h speed limit on the 0.9km stretch of State Highway 3 (Devon Road) from north of Vickers Road to east of the Egmont Road intersection. This change would extend the existing 60km/h zone further north of New Plymouth.
NZTA Director of Regional Relationships Linda Stewart says there have been several crashes at the SH3-Egmont Road intersection, prompting strong community concern.
“The proposed lower speed limit aims to make it safer and easier for drivers to turn at Egmont Road by reducing traffic speeds and improving reaction times.
“While longer-term infrastructure upgrades are being considered for the intersection, these depend on national priorities and funding. In the meantime, a lower speed limit is a practical step to improve safety now and in the future”, she says.
Have your say
Community feedback is a vital part of the decision-making process. People can find out more and share their views on the NZTA website:
Consultation closes at 5pm on Friday 10 October 2025.
All feedback will be considered alongside safety, technical and cost-benefit information before any recommendation is made on whether to change the speed limit.
People travelling on State Highway 2 through Upper Hutt can expect to see activity at one of its more notorious intersections with safety improvement nightworks beginning in September.
Safety upgrades for the SH2/Moonshine Road intersection were confirmed by the Minister of Transport in July.
The upgrades will see new traffic lights installed at the intersection to reduce crash risk, and extra safety measures put in place to protect cyclists. The new measures are a response to community concerns about the intersection’s safety.
SH2 Moonshine Hill Road intersection
Roxanne Hilliard, Wellington Alliance Manager, says construction work is about to begin at the intersection.
“We have brought the schedule forward slightly from the earlier planned start date of October. This is because we want to make sure the intersection is complete and operating before the end of year holiday season.”
“Initially, contractors will do ground and pavement investigations and minor concrete works. Construction will begin around 21 September. Road users can expect to see heavy machinery near this intersection day and night, but the road will be fully open during the day and weekends,” Ms Hilliard says.
Safety benefits
The new design and introduction of traffic lights will help vehicles move through the intersection more safely and will help avoid confusion and crashes. A traffic light-controlled intersection will significantly reduce the risk of crashes from vehicles turning across this busy section of State Highway 2.
Ms Hilliard says while people may think traffic lights will slow people down, safer intersections help prevent the significant disruption crashes cause.
“Serious crashes can and do close roads and, when they require a full police investigation, these closures can last for hours, and even minor crashes can have major impacts on traffic flows.”
“Add into that the devastating impact serious crashes have on victims and their families, making intersections like this safer is the right thing to do,” Ms Hilliard says.
The Moonshine Hill Road project coincides with planned resurfacing work on State Highway 2 between Moonshine Hill Road and Totara Park Road. It is scheduled to run from mid-September to late October. The two programmes will require weeknight road closures and local road detours.
Ms Hilliard says it means drivers and Riverstone Terrace residents can expect some disruption and delays when accessing State Highway 2 while both projects are completed.
While Riverstone Terraces will be within the road closure area, residents will retain access to their properties.
This will only be available via the northbound lanes on State Highway 2 – residents will need to enter this section of the highway from Silverstream and travel north towards Moonshine Hill Road.
Drivers will also have to stop at a waiting area for a short period before being allowed through. This is to ensure contractors are aware of traffic movements and can allow drivers to safely move through the works area.
Speed review consultation
The intersection changes are just part of the planned safety improvements for this section of State Highway 2. Consultation continues on a proposal to reduce the speed limit from 100 km/h to 80 km/h. This is due to close on Friday, 12 September.
Further announcements will be made after submissions have been considered and analysed, and a decision made by the Director of Land Transport.
The outcome of the consultation will inform what speed signs are installed at the State Highway 2/Moonshine Hill Road intersection once it is finished.
