Advocacy – Keep Your Eyes on Gaza: A People Being Exterminated

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September 9, 2025

Source: Palestine Forum of New Zealand

New Zealand The Palestine Forum of New Zealand urgently draws attention to the escalating catastrophe in Gaza, where entire families are being left homeless and exposed under relentless bombardment.

In just 72 hours:

Five high-rise buildings (more than seven floors, containing 209 apartments) were bombed. Each apartment sheltered at least 20 people, meaning over 4,100 children, women, and the elderly are now homeless.
More than 350 tents were destroyed. Each tent sheltered around 10 displaced people, meaning 3,500 people lost their last refuge.

The catastrophic toll:

In total, around 550 families, nearly 7,600 people, have been left in the open, without food, water, or shelter, struggling against hunger, heat, and death.

“This is not collateral damage. This is the systematic extermination of a civilian population,” said a spokesperson for the Palestine Forum of New Zealand. “Every day, the world watches in silence as thousands of innocent lives are destroyed. The time for statements has passed; urgent action is required.”

Call to action:

The Palestine Forum of New Zealand calls on humanitarian organizations, governments, and the international community to act immediately to stop the annihilation of Gaza’s people and to provide urgent relief.

MIL OSI

Appeal for information on East Taieri-Allanton Road fatal crash, Dunedin

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

To be attributed to Detective Darrin Healy:

Dunedin Police are appealing for the public’s help following a fatal crash on 4 September.

Around 1.30pm, Police were called to a crash involving a motorcycle and a vehicle on East Taieri-Allanton Road.

Sadly, one person died at the scene.

Police would like to hear from any motorists who were travelling on East Taieri-Allanton Road, State Highway 1, near J.Tee’s Golf and Function Centre, between 1:20pm and 1:30pm that day.

In particular, Police are interested to hear from you if you may have seen an orange Suzuki Swift or a white and black motorcycle leading up to the time of the crash.

Police are also looking to speak to the driver of a white van with black and white chevron stripes on the back half (pictured).

We have no reason to believe this driver had any involvement in the crash, however, they may have information that can assist with our investigation.

If you can assist with these enquiries, or have dashcam footage from this time, please contact us via 105, either over the phone or online, referencing the file number 250904/9509.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

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International meetings to grow defence, security

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Government

Minister Responsible for the GCSB and NZSIS Judith Collins is this week representing New Zealand at the annual Five Country Ministerial meeting in London.

“This annual meeting recognises the common issues facing the five countries – New Zealand, Australia, Canada, the UK and the US – and our joint commitment to addressing them through research, engagement and working together,” Ms Collins says.

“We will be discussing a range of common challenges and emerging issues, including countering terrorism, approaches to state threats, border security and tackling child sexual exploitation and abuse.”

“While in the UK I will also meet with counterparts in the UK Intelligence and Defence communities, as well as with the UK public service on public service productivity, including digital government and artificial intelligence.

“The GCSB and NZSIS have strong, enduring intelligence relationships with their UK counterparts and other Five Eyes partners.

“This directly contributes to the safety and security of our two countries, as well as broader global security efforts.

“New Zealand can’t work in isolation when we are dealing with national security – we must always work with our international partners.

This week of engagements reaffirms New Zealand’s steadfast dedication to global security and the collective effort required to address these in an increasingly complex and dynamic international environment.”

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Another step forward for Takitimu North Link Stage 2, extending highway to Ōmokoroa

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

A long-awaited step forward is confirmed for the new 4-lane state highway west of Tauranga, between Te Puna and Ōmokoroa, as applications for statutory approvals are lodged for Stage 2 of the Takitimu North Link project under the Fast-track Approvals Act, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) confirms.

This comes as contracts are being awarded for design of this Road of National Significance, and work is underway to refine the design where Stage 1 and 2 meet at Te Puna, helping align both stages and reduce re-work under Stage 2.

“This moment represents the culmination of considerable mahi and tautoko (support) by many over recent years. We acknowledge the commitment and support from our stakeholders over the project’s history, as well as the clear need for improved reliability, resilience and safety on this stretch of State Highway 2,” says Susan Collins, NZTA Regional Manager System Design.

Stage 2 extends Takitimu North Link Stage 1, currently in construction between Tauranga and Te Puna, onwards to Ōmokoroa. The project will improve reliability and resilience for those travelling through the Western Bay sub-region, particularly at Ōmokoroa, Whakamārama, Te Puna and Tauranga.

“Delivering a project of this size and scale comes with its challenges, from managing the sensitive coastal environment to landholdings and complex stormwater requirements.

“Reaching the pre-implementation phase is no small feat, with several structures and a major interchange to be designed for the proposed 7.1km 4-lane state highway to be built.

“We are looking forward to working on the design with local authorities including Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and local hapū Pirirākau and Ngāti Taka, recognising the important role this infrastructure will have in the future prosperity of the region” says Ms Collins.

People passing through the area will see a programme of ground investigations beginning later this year, with key sites near Snodgrass, Ainsworth and Te Puna Quarry, and Munro roads, and near Te Puna Stream.

Tolling has been confirmed to support construction and maintenance costs, and funding for construction will be considered following further work in consenting and detailed design, which is currently in progress.

Notes to the editor

The Stage 2 (Te Puna to Ōmokoroa) project is a Road of National Significance project and is an extension of Stage 1 between Tauranga and Te Puna. It will include:

a new 4-lane state highway with median and side barriers
overbridge for local traffic at Plummers Point Road / Barrett Road
overbridge for local traffic at Snodgrass Road / Te Puna Quarry Road
grade separated interchange at SH2 / Ōmokoroa Road
4 million cubic metres of earthworks
ecological restoration areas
connection to the Takitimu North Link Stage 1 (currently in construction)
existing SH2 highway retained as a local road.

Takitimu North Link project

Takitimu North Link Stage 2: Te Puna to Ōmokoroa

The application documents are published online at fasttrack.govt.nz(external link)

This page outlines the Fast-track approvals process(external link)

Statement provided by Ngāti Taka hapū spokesperson

“Ngāti Taka hapū representatives have been working alongside NZTA Waka Kotahi on Takitimu North Link Stage 1 and developing Stage 2 for many years. This Kaupapa acknowledges our Mana and History, strengthens the relationships we have, and recognises the contribution and values we each bring to the table.”

“Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini – Our strength is not as an individual, but as a collective. We look forward to the next steps together.”

Statement provided by Pirirākau hapū spokesperson

“Pirirākau has walked alongside NZTA Waka Kotahi for more than 2 decades in the planning of the Takitimu North Link. The corridor traverses our ancestral rohe, connecting the high-growth centres of Ōmokoroa and Tauranga, and enabling the broader western Bay of Plenty region to flourish.”

“For Pirirākau, this whenua is not just land, it is imbued with whakapapa, kōrero tuku iho, and the legacy of our tūpuna. The corridor follows traditional routes that once connected our coastal kāinga to inland settlements and strategic pathways linking Pirirākau with our whanaunga in Waikato.”

“All our lands in this area were unjustly confiscated by the Crown in 1863, following the battles of Pukehinahina and Te Ranga. Yet despite that history, we remain committed to advancing positive outcomes for our hapū and the wider community.”

“Through this project, we look forward to continuing our relationship with NZTA, building not just a road, but a future that acknowledges the past, respects our cultural identity, and supports the prosperity of all who call this place home.”

MIL OSI

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Action Plan 2025-2028

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

Publication date:

9 September 2025

The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Action Plan 2025-2028 was developed by the Ministry of Health as part of renewed focus on FASD, announced in February 2024.

It is a health-led plan, with cross-agency support and shared accountability, including across justice, and social service sectors, with a focus on:

growing awareness and preventing harm
supporting individuals and families across the life course
building an informed and capable workforce.

The plan has four main sections.

FASD Action Plan roadmap: 2025-28 – sets out the strategic direction for addressing FASD over the next three years.
Context – outlines the need for an FASD Action Plan and background to its development.
Strategic outcomes and priority actions – outlines the actions that agencies will be focused on to contribute to improved outcomes for FASD.
Monitoring and evaluation – sets out expectations and a timeframe for activities that will provide assurance over delivery of the Action Plan.

The FASD Action Plan 2025-2028 will help ensure a coordinated, system-wide approach to addressing the impacts of FASD in Aotearoa New Zealand.

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Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Community Engagement Insights Report

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health

Publication date:

9 September 2025

The Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Community Engagement Insights Report provides an overview of targeted engagement undertaken by five community organisations: Kookiri ki Taamakimakaurau Trust, Māori Coalition for Te Iho Tātai-ā-Rongo (FASD), Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – Care Action Network Aotearoa (FASD-CAN), Alcohol Healthwatch and the Village Collective.

The community engagement process was carefully designed to be inclusive and accessible: people took part all over New Zealand and each organisation tailored their engagement approach to reflect the cultural and social dynamics of the communities they serve.

This report honours the voices of those communities and the aspirations and priorities of the FASD community across New Zealand. This includes recommendations and insights to inform the Government’s renewed focus on FASD.

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String of charges following flee through South Auckland

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police

A fleeing driver incident in Papakura last night has left one Black Power member without wheels.

At about 11.30pm, a Subaru Legacy passed a Police patrol unit at speed on Beach Road.

Counties Manukau South Area Prevention Manager, Inspector Matt Hoyes, says the Subaru entered the motorway and was signalled to stop but failed to do so.

“Police did not pursue the vehicle as it turned its lights off and drove north on State Highway 1.

“Officers on the ground worked in conjunction with Police Camera Operators as the vehicle continued on and took the State Highway 20 exit.”

Inspector Hoyes says the Subaru came to a stop just after the Puhinui Road on-ramp where officers attempted to take the driver into custody.

“The man has resisted arrest and OC spray was used.

“He was taken into custody without further incident and his vehicle has also been impounded.

“This kind of unsafe driving puts both other motorists and the occupants of the car at risk of serious injury, or worse, and we will continue to take action.”

A 36-year-old man will appear in Papakura District Court today charged with dangerous driving, failing to stop, possession of an offensive weapon, resisting Police and driving with excess breath alcohol.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

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Alcohol levy funds new investment in FASD

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September 9, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Government

Associate Health Minister Matt Doocey today launched the Government’s new approach to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), bringing a significant funding boost and valuable action to further prevent FASD, improve diagnosis and support, and strengthen services for affected families.

“Today’s announcement not only increases funding in FASD but delivers more targeted community-based assessment, diagnosis and early intervention,” Mr Doocey says.

“I want New Zealand to be a country where people are supported to have alcohol free pregnancies, where FASD is better understood, where our workforce is better equipped and people living with FASD and their families are better supported.”

The Government increased the alcohol levy for the first time since 2009 from $11.5 million to $16.6 million annually. A total of $7.25 million of additional alcohol levy funding will be invested to:

•    Roll out targeted community-based assessment, diagnosis and early intervention support for children and young people with FASD.
•    Grow the nationwide “Nurture the Future Within” prevention campaign to raise awareness and support prevention efforts.
•    Continue the community-led Te Iho Tātai-ā-Rongo support programme to connect families and professionals, foster collaboration, and provide neurodiversity training.
•    Build a stronger workforce across health, justice, social services, and education to better recognise and respond to FASD.
•    Increase the number of FASD navigators, peer support, and capability building for individuals with FASD to help young people stay connected, build life skills, and achieve their goals.

“This is a direct response to people waiting far too long for FASD support. It will also help build a stronger evidence base on FASD prevalence in our communities – we need better information about FASD and which initiatives are most effective in improving lives.”

“I want to acknowledge the FASD health and advocacy community, who have worked tirelessly to gain recognition for FASD and to support families, and loved ones, affected by it.

“FASD is widespread and impacts thousands of families. Around 1,800 to 3,000 babies may be born with FASD each year in New Zealand. It significantly affects lifelong health, learning, and development.

“Whether it’s you, your child, a friend, or a family member, reaching out for support, this Government is committed to ensuring support is there.”

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AVATR VISION XPECTRA Makes Global Debut, AVATR Original Design Aesthetics Captivate Munich

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September 9, 2025

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Source: Media Outreach

MUNICH, GERMANY – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 September 2025 – AVATR Technology hosted the “AVATR Brand Day: A Brilliant New Horizon” at UTOPIA München and unveiled the world’s first emotional intelligence (EI) concept car, AVATR VISION XPECTRA. The event also featured the limited-edition AVATR 012, co-created with Kim Jones, as well as the AVATR 11 Royal Theatre Edition and the AVATR 07 and 06, collectively showcasing the brand’s latest advances in original design and intelligent technology.

The world’s first Emotive Intelligent (EI) vision car, AVATR VISION XPECTRA , the limited-edition AVATR 012 co-created with Kim Jones, the exclusive custom AVATR 11 Royal Edition, the Urban Luxury SUV AVATR 07, and the Luxury Sports Sedan AVATR 06 picture designed by AVATR

The design of AVATR VISION XPECTRA draws inspiration from the “Force of Natural Energy.” Its exterior is defined by clear, powerful lines that express composure and tension, while the interior blends premium materials with cutting-edge technology to create an intelligent, personalized immersive space. The vehicle is not merely a means of transportation; it is positioned as an emotional companion.

At the core of its intelligent interaction system, AVATR VISION XPECTRA features “The Vortex,” which intuitively discerns user needs and responds to emotions through interactions using light, motion, and intuitive cues. The concept car also features “Smart Light Key” technology, integrating touch and gesture recognition, enabling users to seamlessly switch between advanced driver-assistance and fully autonomous modes.

The world’s first Emotive Intelligent (EI) vision car, AVATR VISION XPECTRA picture designed by AVATR

Nader Faghihzadeh, Chief Design Officer of AVATR, explained: “AVATR VISION XPECTRA is an Emotional Intelligence (EI) companion shaped by energy and connected through emotion. Here, every journey becomes a vivid declaration of ‘Emotional New Luxury’.”

AVATR’s Global Design Center in Munich crafted AVATR VISION XPECTRA, which brings together nearly 200 design and creative talents from 25 countries. Through this international collaboration, AVATR combines global cutting-edge design with its vision for future intelligent vehicles, shaping a unique design philosophy.

The debut of AVATR VISION XPECTRA not only demonstrates AVATR’s exploration of original design but also reflects the brand’s commitment to pioneering new possibilities for future mobility through the integration of original design and intelligent technology.

Hashtag: #AVATR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

NZ housing market slump deepens – Wellington approaches 30% and Auckland 20% down from peak – QV

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September 9, 2025

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Source: Quality Valuation (QV)

The latest QV House Price Index shows average home values across Aotearoa New Zealand dipped by 0.8% over the three months to the end of August, with the national average now $906,977. That figure is 0.2% higher compared to the same time last year and 13.4% below the nationwide market peak of January 2022.

Across the main centres, Queenstown (2.5%) recorded the strongest gains, followed by Hastings (1.7%) with smaller increases in Tauranga (0.3%), Invercargill (0.4%), and New Plymouth (0.1%). Meanwhile, Nelson (-3.2%) saw the largest quarterly drop, followed by Wellington City (-2.4%), with Whangārei (-1.8%), Auckland Region (-1.4%), Hamilton (-1.2%), Napier (-1.8%), Palmerston North (-0.6%), Christchurch City (-1.2%), and Dunedin (-0.7%) also recording value declines.

QV National Spokesperson Andrea Rush said, “As we head into spring, the housing market remains subdued, with values continuing to decrease in most parts of the country. The slump is most pronounced in Wellington where values are now close to 30% below their peak, and in Auckland, which is down around 20% — underscoring the scale of the correction since early 2022.”

“The good news is that with home values coming down and interest rates beginning to ease, affordability is slowly improving for buyers in many areas. However, higher living costs, rising unemployment, the broader economic downturn, and stretched household budgets continue to restrict demand,” she said.

“A steady flow of new townhouse and apartment completions are giving buyers greater choice and helping to limit upward pressure on prices. Buyers are taking longer to commit, and sellers are increasingly having to meet the market. Agents report some homeowners are struggling to sell in time to secure their next property, leading to more deals falling through.”

Ms Rush added: “Net migration has slowed sharply since the post-pandemic peak, with more people now leaving New Zealand than arriving, in contrast to the strong inflows that helped to fuel house price growth.”

The impact of the new foreign buyer rules will take some time to show in places like Queenstown and Auckland, where most of the homes priced above $5 million are located.

Download a high resolution version of the latest QV value map here.

Values across the Super City are on average around 20% below the January 2022 peak – though it varies by area. Rodney has seen a smaller drop of 12.5% (around $175,000), with average values falling from $1,411,162 to $1,235,103. By contrast, Waitākere has experienced the biggest decline, down 21.7% (around $260,000) from $1,215,527 to $951,690.

QV Auckland Registered Valuer, Hugh Robson said, “Despite a slight lift in sales activity through August, there’s been little movement in prices with all areas seeing values dip in the past three months.”

“Listing levels are healthy across most suburbs, with a number of new townhouse developments recently completed or nearing completion. Well-located homes with some land are continuing to sell well, while townhouses with little or no land are proving less popular.”

“Buyer sentiment is relatively upbeat, with recent surveys suggesting many see now as a good time to purchase. The latest cut to the OCR and correspondingly lower interest rates, plenty of choice, and a sense that prices may have bottomed out are helping to support that confidence.”

Wellington

Wellington has experienced the largest value falls in the country since the January 2022 peak, with the steepest drop in Wellington City – West, where average values have fallen 29.9% (more than $400,000) from $1,442,657 to $1,010,714. Lower Hutt has also seen significant declines, with average values down nearly $300,000 from $1,032,527 to $741,841 over the same period.
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QV Wellington Registered Valuer and Senior Consultant David Cornford said, “Good stock is attracting steady interest and often multi-offers, but overall values while still ticking down across all areas remain relatively flat.”

“Well-maintained homes continue to sell strongly, while ex-rentals with deferred maintenance are struggling and can often be picked up relatively cheaply.”

“Most buyers remain cautious and are steering clear of properties that need significant work, but for those with the skills and appetite to take it on, this part of the market presents an opportunity to add value and create equity.”

“There does appear to be a little more optimism creeping back into the market.”

Christchurch

QV Christchurch Registered Valuer Olivia Brownie said, “The Christchurch housing market has continued to cool through the winter months, which is typical for this time of year, although values are still up annually overall.”

“Recent weeks have brought a lift in enquiries, with more people preparing to buy or sell as spring approaches,” she said.

“The easing of interest rates may help to get more sales across the line in the coming months, with demand remaining healthy, particularly from first-home buyers.”

“Local economic fundamentals point to ongoing stability, though national economic conditions could influence momentum.”
Largest regional value changes

Regional divergence is still occurring, although most areas we measure across the country are now experiencing value decreases.

Queenstown Lakes District remains the country’s most resilient market, leading national growth with the highest average value at $1,860,392. That’s 16.8% (about $270,000) higher than the January 2022 peak, fuelled by strong tourism, holiday home demand, and ongoing construction that is creating jobs and driving housing need. Nearby Mackenzie District, including popular lakeside towns such as Tekapo, is also on the rise — up 5.8% this quarter, 7% year on year, and 17.9% since the peak to $802,892.

Hamilton Central values also rose 6.8% this quarter, bucking the wider city trend. QV Hamilton Senior Registered Valuer, Marshall Wu, said affordability, proximity to the CBD, strong rental demand, and new townhouse developments are driving momentum.

Carterton recorded the largest drop over the past three months, reflecting the broader downturn across the Wellington region — a pattern now spreading to Wairarapa commuter towns.

Nelson values fell 3.2% this quarter. QV Nelson/Marlborough Manager Craig Russell described the market as “flat rather than falling,” with steady demand for tidy $500,000–$800,000 homes. But properties with issues are struggling to sell, while those above $1 million often take six months or more and need price cuts to attract interest. He added that recent job losses have added uncertainty, and unlike other regions, Nelson is not benefiting from higher dairy prices.

You can check value changes over time in your region with QV’s interactive map on www.qv.co.nz/price-index/

The QV HPI uses a rolling three month collection of sales data, based on sales agreement date. This has always been the case and ensures a large sample of sales data is used to measure value change over time. Having agent and non-agent sales included in the index provides a comprehensive measure of property value change over the longer term.

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