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Transmission Gully summer maintenance work getting underway

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

A busy season of road resurfacing and drainage improvements for one of Wellington’s most critical transport links is set to kick off.

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) Regional Manager Lower North Island/Top of the South Mark Owen says drivers can expect to see roadworks underway on the Transmission Gully motorway from next week through until mid-February 2026. 

“We have an extensive programme of works planned from Kenepuru right through to Mackays Crossing Interchange. Work crews will be at multiple sites in the upcoming months.

“Every year NZTA undertakes a large road renewal programme to maintain and improve state highways across the country. This year that includes a significant amount of resurfacing and drainage work on Transmission Gully.”

Mr Owen says the work will start on Tuesday 4 November and be ongoing through until mid-February next year, weather permitting.

“Drivers will need to plan ahead and factor in extra time for their journeys, as this work will require lane closures, road closures and speed restrictions to allow contractors to complete the work safely and as quickly as possible. When the motorway is closed there will be detours in place via State Highway 59 and State Highway 58. We will let the public know in advance when these works and closures are planned.”

Drainage works will begin next week, with northbound night closures on Tuesday 4 November and Wednesday 5 November between 9pm and 4.30am. All northbound traffic will need to detour via State Highway 59 between Linden through to SH58. Traffic management will be set up from 8pm, so drivers can expect delays from then.

Detour route for northbound closure between Linden and SH58.

NZTA contractors will be making drainage improvements and rebuilding approximately 6km of the 27km highway this summer. This work is needed to repair areas of the road that have been significantly impacted by water seeping into the pavement.

Additionally, there will be approximately 18km of routine chip-sealing maintenance work undertaken over the summer. Chip-sealing will help to waterproof the road surface ahead of the winter months in 2026.  

Mr Owen says the resurfacing works being undertaken this summer will also help to prepare the motorway for a proposed speed limit increase to 110km/h. NZTA is currently analysing consultation feedback alongside technical information and plans to submit this to the Director of Land Transport soon.

Mr Owen says NZTA appreciates that work over summer can be disruptive and frustrating for drivers.

“We’re working hard to prepare the road for the future, and this work needs to be done over spring and summer as it requires warmer, drier weather.”

Mr Owen says with all the work planned, drivers should be ready for roadworks and the travel delays they will cause.

“Plan ahead, know where the roadworks are happening, how substantial they are, and how they will affect you. That way you can make informed choices, like timing your trip to avoid major works or allowing extra time for your journey.”

Mr Owen also urges drivers to respect road workers and the speed limits in place at road work sites.

“The speed limits are there for a reason – to keep workers and drivers safe.”

MIL OSI

Construction is underway on SH1/Waitārere Beach Road roundabout

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Construction of a new roundabout at the intersection of State Highway 1 (SH1) and Waitārere Beach Road in Horowhenua is now underway.

This roundabout will improve safety and traffic flow at this well-used intersection, which provides access to the growing Waitārere Beach community. 

“As traffic volumes grow and the region continues to develop, this roundabout will help ensure people can travel safely and efficiently through the area,” says Rob Partridge, Regional Manager of Infrastructure Delivery.

Traffic impact

From now until mid March next year, the intersection will largely be open to two lanes of traffic with a temporary speed limit in place.

Those two lanes of traffic may shift from time to time depending on construction, so please be aware of possible new road layouts, drive safely and adhere to temporary traffic management. 

Work will take place during the day, Monday to Friday, until early December. From December through to mid-March, there will be a mix of day and night works.

We will communicate any upcoming changes to traffic management.

No work will happen over the Christmas/New Year period.

The roundabout is expected to be complete by late 2026. We will provide regular updates as construction progresses.

The roundabout benefit

Roundabouts reduce the risk of serious crashes. They lower the number of potential conflict points between vehicles, and if a collision does occur, the impact is generally less severe than at traditional intersections.

This roundabout is one of several safety improvements being delivered along SH1 between Levin and Foxton, ahead of the completion of the new Ōtaki to north of Levin highway (Ō2NL). These upgrades will support a safe transition between the new and existing highway environments.

“We’re focused on delivering practical, cost-effective improvements that make a real difference,” says Mr Partridge.

MIL OSI

Motu Move ready to go in Greater Christchurch

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Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Bus and ferry passengers in Greater Christchurch will soon be able to pay fares using credit or debit cards, phones or smart watches, with the National Ticketing Solution (NTS), known as Motu Move, starting in the region on Monday 10 November.

“We’re very pleased to confirm the start date for our first stage of rolling out Motu Move in Greater Christchurch. This follows a successful trial of the contactless payment system on the Route 29 bus from Christchurch Airport to the city,” says NTS Programme Director Roger Jones.

“Motu Move will bring new contactless ways to pay for public transport, making it easier for everyone to use public transport, including commuters, visitors to the city and casual users.”

With the launch of contactless payments on Metro bus and ferry services from 10 November, customers will be able to use their debit or credit card, phone or smart watch to pay for a standard adult non-concession fare, alongside existing Metrocard and cash payment options. This is the first stage of the Motu Move rollout in the region, with more customer features and ways to pay for public transport coming in 2026.

Concession holders should continue to pay as usual, until concession fares are added to Motu Move next year. Prepaid Motu Move cards will be available from mid-2026, replacing Metrocard.

“As we prepare for the full roll-out of Motu Move, we’ll be working closely with our customers to ensure those that need to choose a new way to pay are well supported and prepared,” says Giles Southwell, Environment Canterbury’s Director Corporate & Public Transport Services.

Motu Move is targeted to be operational throughout New Zealand by the end of 2027.

MIL OSI

Environment and Health – Greenpeace welcomes glyphosate ruling, urges NZ Food Safety to restart food safety testing

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Source: Greenpeace

Greenpeace welcomes a decision by New Zealand Food Safety to maintain maximum glyphosate residue levels on wheat, oats and barley at their current level of 0.1mg/kg, but now calls on NZFS to restart its glyphosate testing programme.
The government had initially proposed increasing glyphosate residue levels by 100-times. But there was overwhelming opposition to the increase among the more than 3,100 submissions on the proposal.
Greenpeace Aotearoa Executive Director Dr Russel Norman says: “This is a great victory. People were totally opposed to the plan to increase glyphosate on wheat, oats and barley.
“However, we also note that NZFA stopped testing for glyphosate after it found residues in food well over the 0.1mg/kg level in 2015/16. We are seeking an assurance from NZFA that they will include glyphosate in their next round of food testing.
” We are also concerned that NZFA has taken no enforcement action in over a decade when it finds pesticides at levels above the legal maximum allowed in food. There is not much point having legal maximums if they are not enforced.”
Glyphosate is classified by the WHO as a probable carcinogen.
“New Zealanders can now eat their cereals and bread with the knowledge that glyphosate levels aren’t increasing and staying the same at 0.1 mg/kg.
“We are also pleased that NZFA has introduced a requirement that, where glyphosate is used on cereal crops, it can only be sprayed prior to the crops emerging, and may not be sprayed directly on crops destined for human consumption.
“A large body of scientific evidence has demonstrated harm to human health and the environment from glyphosate. Our long term goal is to reduce and, where possible, eliminate the use of agrichemicals. Any steps in this direction are welcome.
However, the decision to increase the levels of glyphosate on dried peas to 6 mg/kg is disappointing, says Dr Norman.
“Raising the glyphosate MRL on dried peas gives tacit approval for the increased and ongoing use of agrichemicals in the food system. Instead of making it easier to spray toxic chemicals on our food, the Government should be supporting farmers to transition to ecological farming that protects people and the planet.”

MIL OSI

Animal Safety – Two dogs dead in one day at Southland greyhound track

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Source: SAFE For Animals

SAFE is calling on Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) to begin winding down races immediately, following the deaths of two dogs at Ascot Park Raceway in Invercargill yesterday.
According to GRNZ Stewards’ Reports, both dogs suffered catastrophic spinal injuries that led to their deaths.
Homebush Jelly was found dead at the lure after suffering a suspected fractured neck and severed spinal cord. Moments later, Queen of Shadows sustained a suspected spinal fracture at the lure and was euthanised due to the severity of her injuries.
SAFE Campaign Manager Emma Brodie said the deaths were shocking, but tragically predictable.
“Two dogs dying from broken spines on the same day is horrifying,” said Brodie.
“This tragedy underscores why the Bill to ban greyhound racing is so vital. The Government has taken a historic step by introducing it, but dogs are still dying while the industry clings on in desperation.”
Recent media statements from GRNZ have claimed a “dramatic drop” in injuries. SAFE says those claims are misleading and ignore the ongoing reality of catastrophic injuries and deaths on the track.
“We’re calling on Greyhound Racing New Zealand to accept the inevitable and begin winding down now,” said Brodie.
“The industry should focus on rehoming dogs ahead of closure by August 2026 – not wasting resources on PR spin while dogs continue to be killed.”
SAFE has written to Racing Minister Winston Peters to inform him of the latest deaths and request an update on the timeline for the Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill, including when public submissions will open.
“We’re looking forward to participating in the parliamentary process and seeing an end to this industry by August 2026,” said Brodie.
“Every dog who dies between now and then is one too many.”
SAFE is Aotearoa’s leading animal rights organisation.
We’re creating a future that ensures the rights of animals are respected. Our core work empowers society to make kinder choices for ourselves, animals and our planet.
  • The Racing Industry (Closure of Greyhound Racing Industry) Amendment Bill was introduced to Parliament on 13 October 2025. The Bill amends the Racing Industry Act 2020 to close commercial greyhound racing in New Zealand from 1 August 2026.
  • Since the Government’s announcement on 10 December 2024 that commercial greyhound racing would end, the industry has recorded a total of 626 injuries, including 91 fractures and 17 deaths. In the current 2025/26 racing season (which began on 1 August 2025), there have already been 165 injuries, 18 fractures, and 5 deaths. 

MIL OSI

Fire Safety – Pause and Plan before Burning Storm Debris

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

As the clean-up from last week’s storm continues, Fire and Emergency is asking farmers and lifestyle block owners in Otago and Southland to pause and plan before starting to burn debris.
Otago District Manager Craig Geddes says people might be tempted to push fallen branches, broken fence posts and other debris into piles near where they fell and set them alight, but he says a more deliberate approach will be much safer and effective and will prevent fires from getting out of control.
“The last thing anyone needs now is for their fire to escape and cause more damage to their own property or the neighbours.”
He adds that many firefighters are also trying to clear and repair the damage on their own properties after the storm. “They too will appreciate people being extra careful to avoid causing unwanted fires at this time.”
Southland District Manager Julian Tohiariki says it’s understandable that people are keen to clear their properties. “We’d like to remind everyone to be cautious and make sure their burn piles are a manageable size and extinguished properly so they don’t reignite and get out of hand, given that we are in our windy season.”
There is extensive guidance about burning on www.checkitsalright.nz including a simple “can I light a fire” tool.
Tips include:
– Place the burn pile on the lee side (sheltered side) at least 30 metres away from trees, hedges, sheds or other structures, and avoid powerlines.
– Create a five-metre wide fire break to stop a creeping ground fire
– Let the material dry out. Newly fallen branches and other green material will not burn cleanly, creating more smoke.
– Before burning, always go to www.checkitsalright.nz to check that it is safe to burn and see any restrictions for your location, including if you need a fire permit.
People should also check their local council’s restrictions on outdoor burning and be mindful of their regional council air quality rules.

MIL OSI

Minister to attend ASEAN Defence meeting

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Source: New Zealand Government

Defence Minister Judith Collins will today travel to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).

“In times of increasing international tension, face-to-face talks are more important than ever,” Ms Collins says. 

“I am looking forward to meeting with counterparts to discuss complex defence and security issues, sharing New Zealand’s perspective and deepening existing relationships.” 

This year marks the 50th anniversary of New Zealand’s dialogue relations with ASEAN, as well as the 15th anniversary of the first ADMM-Plus meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam. The forum is an opportunity to engage on regional security issues and strengthen defence cooperation in the Indo-Pacific with the goal of upholding peace, stability and prosperity. 

In addition to attending ADMM-Plus, the Minister will hold a number of bilateral meetings with Defence counterparts.

“As a small trading nation, we rely on the international rules-based order, underpinned by collective security and open trading relations,” Ms Collins says. 

“That is why we are investing in our national security and economic prosperity while pulling our weight on the world stage.” 

Ms Collins will return to New Zealand on 3 November.

Note to editors: 

ASEAN comprises 11 Southeast Asian countries: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Viet Nam.
ASEAN Dialogue Partners are: Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States.

MIL OSI

CPF and NH Foods unite to form CPF NH to deliver high-quality processed pork products for Asian consumers

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MIL OSI
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Source: Media Outreach

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 October 2025 – Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) of Thailand and NH Foods Ltd. of Japan, two leading food companies in Asia, join forces to establish a new joint venture, CPF NH Foods Co., Ltd. This partnership unites leading capabilities in innovation, food safety, high-quality protein production, and sustainable manufacturing processes to serve the rising demand for premium processed pork products across Asia.

The new venture, formed between CPF Food and Beverage Co., Ltd. (CPFFB), a subsidiary of CPF, and NH Foods Ltd., will focus on developing, producing, and marketing processed pork products for consumers in Thailand and key export markets including Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and other Asian countries. CPF’s modern processing facility in Chachoengsao province will serve as the production hub.

Under this strategic partnership, NH Foods will leverage its global leadership in product development and advanced manufacturing technologies, while CPFFB will supply premium pork raw materials that meet international food-safety standards, supported by its extensive distribution network across Thailand and regional markets.

Prasit Boondoungprasert, Chief Executive Officer of CPF, said the partnership reflects a shared ambition to raise Asia’s food industry to world-class standards.

“The establishment of CPF NH Foods marks a significant milestone in uniting the strengths of two of Asia’s foremost food enterprises. By integrating CPF’s end-to-end distribution and raw material sourcing with NH Foods’ advanced product development and manufacturing expertise, we are setting new standards in food manufacturing — delivering premium-quality processed foods to consumers across Asia. This collaboration reinforces our position in the global processed pork market and advances our vision of sustainable growth as the ‘Kitchen of the World.’ Together, we aim to exceed evolving consumer expectations while shaping the future of sustainable, high-quality food solutions,” Prasit remarked.

Nobuhisa Ikawa, President and Chief Executive Officer of NH Foods, said the joint venture marks an important step in strengthening long-term cooperation between the two regional leaders.

“NH Foods is working to create new value in protein through co-creation and challenges, further accelerating its alliance with CPF, whose strengths lie in processed livestock foods. Together, the two companies will leverage their expertise to promote their business overseas, primarily in Asia.”

The partnership builds on the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed last year, under which CPF imported premium beef from NH Foods for the Thai market. Building on that success, the new joint venture enhances both companies’ competitiveness and drives sustainable growth across Asia’s fast-evolving food landscape.

Hashtag: #CPF

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

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

Cardo Systems Goes Beyond: Introducing A New Standard In Motorcycle Helmet Innovation

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MIL OSI
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Source: Media Outreach

All-New Cardo BEYOND Helmet Represents Two Decades of Innovation Culminating in a Groundbreaking Fusion of Safety, Sound & Intuitive Technology

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA & WILLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 October 2025 – Cardo Systems, the leader in wireless communication solutions for powersports riders, proudly introduces BEYOND GTS and BEYOND GT, the brand’s first-ever fully integrated sport-touring motorcycle helmets. The BEYOND line of helmets deliver the convergence of two decades of innovation in rider connectivity and four years of advanced R&D, focused on creating the most advanced integrated helmet on the market. More than just a helmet, Cardo BEYOND delivers a new-generation riding companion engineered to protect, connect and elevate every ride.

Among its many innovations, BEYOND debuts the world’s first 53mm helmet speakers, precision tuned by Cardo Sound Labs for unmatched clarity and power. An Active Noise Cancellation system purpose-built for motorcyclists to combat fatigue and hearing loss is another global breakthrough. The introduction of the first-ever helmet health indicator continuously monitors and reports on the helmet’s condition, giving riders real-time insight into the integrity of their gear. BEYOND continues to set industry firsts with features never before seen in a helmet– upgradable tech modules, a detachable battery with wireless charging, automatic on/off functionality, and a customizable button, to name but a few.

“After 20 years at the forefront of rider communication, this is, without a doubt, a breakthrough moment for Cardo Systems,” said Alon Lumbroso, Chief Executive Officer at Cardo. “We’ve always believed technology should enhance the ride without distracting from it, and that’s exactly what we’ve achieved with this helmet. It’s not just about adding features. It’s about integrating them in a way that is seamless and feels natural, intuitive, and purpose-built for motorcyclists.”

Designed from the ground up, BEYOND GTS features a lightweight carbon fiber shell paired with a multi-density EPS liner, a combination that delivers high-impact protection without compromising on weight or long-ride comfort. Riders will also notice a big difference in airflow and stability because of extensive wind-tunnel-tested aerodynamics and a precision ventilation system that reduces fatigue and keeps visibility clear in any weather.

Where traditional helmets stop at passive protection, BEYOND GTS advances into intelligent safety. Features like the Emergency Release System and full multi-regional homologation (DOT and ECE 22.06 certified) ensure global compliance and rider peace of mind. Integrated Crash Detection alerts others in real-time during potential impacts, while a wide field of view, enhanced by the world’s first Pinlock® 200 anti-fog lens to drastically reduce face shield fogging, improves forward visibility. An Active Brake Light increases visibility from behind.

At its core, BEYOND GTS includes a powerful communications suite with a 2km intercom range, Bluetooth integration, and hands-free voice control, ensuring riders can stay in touch, navigate, or control their music without ever taking their hands off the bars.

Additional rider-centric enhancements are seamlessly integrated throughout the helmet. A retractable sun visor allows for smooth transitions between lighting conditions without the need to swap visors. Auto On/Off functionality conserves battery life by powering down when not in use. A replaceable battery and serviceable components ensure long-term durability, while an upgradeable tech package allows the helmet to evolve with future advancements. Inside, moisture-wicking premium fabrics keep the rider cool and comfortable, ride after ride.

To complement the top-of-the-line BEYOND GTS model, Cardo also unveiled BEYOND GT, a streamlined version that maintains the same core values of safety, performance, and connectivity, while offering riders an accessible, feature-rich alternative. Constructed with a lightweight fiberglass shell and equipped with a rear reflector for enhanced visibility, BEYOND GT retains compatibility with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology and offers a powerful 1000mA battery. While it forgoes wireless charging, it includes a Pinlock® 120XLT® anti-fog lens to dramatically reduce fogging and is finished with GT comfort padding for long-lasting rideability. It’s a smart choice for riders who want the full experience of integrated safety and communication without compromise.

From everyday commutes to open-road adventures, BEYOND GTS and BEYOND GT are built to do it all, with style, intelligence, and uncompromising performance.

The BEYOND GTS and GT will be available in 2026. Learn more at cardobeyond.com.

For more information about Cardo Systems, and its full line-up of communication devices to fit all rider’s budgets, visit cardosystems.com or join the conversation on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and see all the latest videos on YouTube.

Hashtag: #CardoSystems

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

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

DOC’s plea – stop wrecking our signs

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Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  29 October 2025

Recent incidents include the iconic green and yellow signs being riddled with bullet holes, being driven into, and being ‘keyed” so that information can’t be read, or signs removed altogether.

Figures reveal that in the South Island alone, there are 902 DOC signs flagged in the works system for replacement or repair. That compares with a total of 1155 signs being replaced or repaired in the three-year period from July 2022 to now.

DOC Asset Inspector Charlie Barnett has seen it all. His job is to undertake condition assessments on bridges, huts, signs and other structures. He says he sees at least two or three badly damaged signs a month in his inspection rounds.

“It’s really frustrating to see the needless destruction of DOC signage and infrastructure. It is also a safety concern, as people could be walking the tracks while signs are being shot at with projectiles travelling far beyond the eye. The signs riddled with bullet holes are usually out in the back country, while closer to town it’s mainly graffiti or being knocked over or driven into,” he says.

Charlie Barnett says it’s a huge amount of work to carry in new materials to replace or fix signs and they are often in remote locations. His message is clear.

“Be the better person in nature. Save target practice for the range and leave the signs alone.”

DOC has 26,759 signs across Aotearoa and it’s a huge job maintaining and replacing them. The department spent $350,523 on signage in the 2024/2025 financial year. Next year’s budget has increased to $587,248.

DOC Strategic Asset Manager Kushla Tapper says it’s not just a vandalism issue – it’s about keeping the public safe.

“Some signs lose their reflective quality when vandalised and that means they can’t be seen in poor weather conditions or the dark. This can be the difference between safety and significant harm for travellers. These signs contain essential information.

“We want the public to know that the time and costs we spend on repairing and replacing signs, could be better spent on doing other work to protect biodiversity or maintaining huts and tracks. We have a finite budget and are always trying to prioritise our work. We could maintain more visitor assets if we didn’t have to keep reassigning funds to fixing vandalism of essential signage.”

Kushla Tapper says as we head into another busy summer season, it’s a timely reminder to those heading out ‘naturing’.

“Ultimately our message is please, leave the signs alone. We love that more people are enjoying the outdoors, but this is the opposite of what ‘naturing’ is supposed to be about. Naturing is about respecting and caring for the environment, and that includes our signs.”

Members of the public who see any damaged DOC signs are encouraged to record the location, take a photo if possible, and send the information to the local DOC office.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

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