Funding confirmed for Waikare Gorge realignment

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February 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has confirmed funding to deliver the Waikare Gorge realignment project, ensuring a resilient and safe connection between Hawke’s Bay and Wairoa District on to Tairawhiti can be restored, Transport Minister Chris Bishop says.
“The Government is committed to delivering transport infrastructure that boosts economic growth and creates a safer, more resilient transport network for people, vehicles, and freight,” Mr Bishop says.
“Currently, the state highway travels through Putorino, and down into Waikare Gorge. This section of road through the gorge has been prone to slips in the past and the gorge bridge was destroyed in Cyclone Gabrielle severing the connection between Hawke’s Bay and Wairoa for a number of months until a Bailey bridge opened across the river.
“We know how critical this SH2 connection is for the thousands of road users and freight operators who use this corridor every day, and the local communities and businesses who have been looking forward to this keenly anticipated project going ahead.
“Cabinet has now confirmed funding will be provided by the Crown to the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) to help deliver the Waikare Gorge realignment project, with four kilometres of State Highway 2 realigned between Wairoa and Napier, including a 160-metre-long arch bridge over the top of Waikare Gorge.
“This funding allows NZTA to get on with the project and finalise design and complete negotiations with property owners in the area. NZTA wants to work with local contractors for as much of the construction as possible, and I look forward to this beginning once pre-implementation work is completed.
“Today marks the two-year anniversary of Cyclone Gabrielle, and I know recovery work has been a tough grind for the East Coast. The Government is committed to the region and prioritising the delivery of roading investment across New Zealand is part of our plan to boost economic growth. That includes the Waikare Gorge realignment, alongside all the other recovery work currently underway.
“I want to acknowledge the patience and persistence of those living, working and traveling through the East Coast. I also want to thank the local MPs Katie Nimon and Dana Kirkpatrick, Wairoa Mayor Craig Little, and other community leaders for their continued strong advocacy for this important project. I look forward to construction starting on the Waikare Gorge realignment as soon as possible.”
Notes to Editor

Cabinet has confirmed funding will be provided by the Crown to the NZ Transport Agency to deliver the Waikare Gorge realignment project.
This funding will be a drawn down from the tagged contingency set aside in Budget 2024 to enable the NZ Transport Agency to bring forward priority projects that would otherwise be phased to begin from 2027 onwards.
Overall funding to deliver the Waikare Gorge Realignment will be confirmed publicly once a contractor is in place to deliver the project.
The arch bridge will be 160 metres long and will cross from one side of the gorge to the other. Other examples of an arch bridge can be seen crossing the Waikato River (130 metres span); on the Taupō Bypass (100m span) and near Ngaruawahia as part of Te Awa cycleway (130m span).
Construction will begin as soon as NZTA completes pre-implementation work such as negotiations with landowners, detailed design and consenting.
Once underway, the project is expected to take 4 years to complete and because it’s constructed mostly away from the existing SH2, there will be no traffic disruption, except when it comes to connecting the new road to the existing state highway.
The existing Bailey bridge will remain in place until the realignment is built. The Bailey bridge will follow a routine maintenance schedule with regular monitoring to ensure it remains safe and fit for purpose.

MIL OSI

First Responders – Lewis Pass Road fire update #6

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February 16, 2025

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Firefighters have made good progress consolidating the containment lines around the Lewis Pass Road fireground today and will return tomorrow to continue mopping up remaining areas of deep-seated burning.

Speed restrictions have been lifted on SH7 overnight while firefighting operations are suspended. The temporary 30km/hr speed limit will be in place again from 7am to ensure the safety of personnel working on and alongside the road.

Fire and Emergency NZ Assistant Commander Dave Key says the landowner will monitor the fire overnight. If people travelling between Springs Junction and Hanmer Springs notice flames overnight, or any other signs of fire that concern them, they should call 111 to report them.

Three crews of firefighters will be working on the fireground tomorrow with a helicopter on standby if needed.

Dave Key thanked the local residents for their support of crews and the incident management team over the last two days.

MIL OSI

First Responders – Lewis Pass Road Fire Update #5

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February 16, 2025

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Firefighters are continuing to deal with hotspots on the Lewis Pass Road fireground today, and strengthening the perimeter.

Fire and Emergency NZ Assistant Commander Dave Key said that operations would continue tonight and tomorrow.

SH7 between Hanmer Springs and Springs Junction is open with a 30 km/hr speed restriction, but there may be occasional brief closures while operations are carried out above or close to the highway.

Dave Key thanked motorists for their patience. “The speed restriction and occasional closures are to ensure everybody’s safety. That includes our firefighters and pilots, who are working around the roadside, and motorists.”

MIL OSI

First Responders – Te Aro apartment block fire extinguished

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February 16, 2025

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Firefighters have extinguished a fire on the third floor of a multi-story apartment block in Willis St, Wellington, this afternoon.

Fire and Emergency Assistant Commander Matt Franklin said multiple 111 calls were received and the apartment was fully involved in fire when the first crews arrived shortly after 2.30pm.

“We responded swiftly and in numbers, extinguished the fire and conducted a full search of the building. Fortunately, no-one was home in the apartment,” he said.

There is smoke on all levels and firefighters have been ventilating the building.

Six fire trucks, one aerial appliance (ladder truck), a command unit and operational support vehicles attended.

Specialist fire investigators have begun work to establish the origin and cause of the fire.

As at 4pm there were still road closures in place and people are asked to avoid the area so as not to delay the movement of emergency services.

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Library protest crossed a line, Police say

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February 16, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Attribute to Inspector Simon Walker, Acting Waitematā District Commander:

Police strongly condemn the actions of a group protesting a children’s event at the Te Atatū library yesterday and can confirm officers are investigating allegations of assault.

The event was being run as part of the city’s pride festival but was cancelled after about 50 people entered the building and refused to leave.

The group’s actions caused considerable distress and concern among tamariki, library staff and visitors.

This protest crossed a line.

Freedom of speech and the right to protest are fundamental principles of a free and democratic society under the rule of law, but nobody, especially children, should ever be made to feel unsafe.

I’m proud of the frontline staff, who responded with haste and professionalism, resolving a dynamic and emotive situation as safely and as quickly as possible. I also want to acknowledge the staff at the library who did their utmost to de-escalate the situation and keep their visitors safe.

Police were made aware of allegations of assault during this incident. We are actively investigating these reports today and we encourage any other people subjected to violent behaviour to make a report at their nearest Police station, or online at 105.police.govt.nz.

No arrests have been made, but enquiries are in the early stages.

Police and Auckland Council have worked closely around the pride celebrations, and this work will continue. We live in a diverse city in a diverse country, and that is worth celebrating.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

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Release: Transparency needed on boot camps

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February 16, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Labour Party

“Karen Chhour needs to front up and shed some light on the state of her boot camps experiment,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

“Just a few months ago, the pilot went haywire with cases of reoffending – and since the truth escaped, the Minister has held a tight grip on information that’s released.

“It’s since been alleged that more reoffending has occurred among those in the pilot, and when questioned about this, the Minister wouldn’t deny but still withheld the facts.

“It wasn’t too long ago that Karen Chhour and Christopher Luxon made a big song and dance in announcing their baseless boot camps promise. Yet, now as the experiment falls to pieces – the PM, just like the facts, is nowhere to be seen on this front.

“If the pilot is going well – what is the Minister hiding?

“The only plausible conclusion is that the evidence never mattered to begin with. That this was a pointless tick box exercise to look and sound tough, while they force the Bill through regardless of the outcome.

“We need to know if these tamariki are safe and getting the support they need to return to their communities. If they are, Karen Chhour should have nothing to hide,” Willow-Jean Prime said.

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Kiwi campaign invites Aussies to come on over

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February 16, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Government

A new campaign encouraging Australians to pick New Zealand for their next holiday gears up the industry for growth in 2025, Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston says.Marketing goes live in Australia in the week ahead, underscoring the Government’s commitment to drive international tourism alongside economic growth.“We always love to see our Australian friends holidaying here, staying with local accommodation providers, soaking up Kiwi experiences, and enjoying hospitality in restaurants, bars and cafes,” Louise Upston says.“Tourism is a crucial part of this Government’s focus on economic growth, with domestic and international tourism expenditure at almost $38 billion and supporting nearly 200,000 jobs.“This is the first investment for our Tourism Boost, utilising $500,000 from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy and there will be further initiatives to come.”Visitor numbers from Australia are currently at about 88 per cent of 2019 levels – this campaign will encourage more of our neighbours to book now and come on over.“What this Tourism New Zealand campaign says to our Aussie mates is that we’re open for business, there are some great deals on, and we’d love to see you soon.“The campaign tagline of ’Everyone must go’ lets Australia know that New Zealand is a ‘must visit’ destination, and that we’re ready and waiting to welcome them now.“The number of Australian arrivals in New Zealand increased by more than 90,000, up from 1.27 million to 1.36 million over the past year, but we know there’s more room to grow. This campaign builds on that momentum and capitalises on the work already done to establish New Zealand as an appealing destination. “Figures indicate that around 4 million Australians are already actively considering a holiday here. “Tourism New Zealand has brought partners on board to contribute too. We all want to encourage Australians to visit, spend, and have a fantastic time in New Zealand. “This is part of our Tourism Boost, developed by the Government in partnership with industry to support immediate growth in visitor numbers, drive export activity and deliver economic growth. “This campaign is also one action feeding into Going For Growth, launched by Minister of Finance and Economic Growth Nicola Willis.“Going For Growth sets out what this Government is doing to address our growth challenges and unlock New Zealand’s potential.“Ultimately economic growth is driven by businesses, and I will continue to meet with businesses up and down the country to help grow tourism not just in the immediate term but over the long term,” Louise Upston says.

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New renal centre will provide life-saving care for patients

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February 16, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Government

Hundreds of patients from the central North Island will be supported at Waikato’s new renal facility, which officially opened today, Health Minister Simeon Brown says.

“Delivering improved health infrastructure is a priority for the Government. I am pleased for those patients who will be able to access life-saving care at the new Waikato Regional Renal Centre.

“This is an essential service for those on dialysis and kidney transplant patients living in the central North Island. Having a purpose-built, high-tech building is a positive step in enhancing patient outcomes for the local community.

“Combining all outpatient renal services into a single site will make a real difference for patients who can now access comprehensive, coordinated care in one place.

“The facility, which is 70 per cent larger than the previous centre, provides a welcoming environment for renal patients receiving care and their families, many of whom will be with the service for years.

“It has been designed to allow for future growth, offering a long-term solution that meets both the needs of the community and international standards for dialysis care.

“Infrastructure like this makes a significant difference in improving access to timely healthcare and bringing services closer to home for Kiwis.

“The Government has invested a record $16.68 billion to ensure access to timely, quality healthcare, including renal care. I look forward to many more patients being able to access this local, life-saving service in the future,” Mr Brown says.

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Investigation launched after man critically injured in firearms incident

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February 16, 2025

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Source: New Zealand Police (District News)

Police are making enquiries after a firearms incident early this morning that has left a man in critical condition.

Emergency services were called to Winstone Ave about 5am after reports of shots heard.

A short time later, a man presented to hospital with an apparent gunshot wound.

He remains there in critical condition.

Police are now working to establish what has occurred and to speak to all those believed to be involved.

A scene examination will take place at the property today, and cordons will be in place on Winstone Ave.

Investigators would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the incident or who might have information about those involved.

If you can help, please use our 105 service and quote reference number 250216/7665.

You can also share information anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

First Responders – Lewis Pass Road fire update #4

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February 16, 2025

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Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Firefighters have contained the vegetation fire burning on SH7 between Hanmer Springs and Springs Junction in Canterbury.

Fire and Emergency NZ Assistant Commander Dave Key says that 30 firefighters and an incident management team are working on the fire this morning, supported by multiple fire appliances, two helicopters and an excavator.

No houses or other structures were lost overnight, and crews are continuing to carry out structure protection today. The size of the fireground remains at 40 hectares.

The Lewis Pass Rd is open with a 30km/hr speed limit and Dave Key has asked drivers to stick to that speed to keep firefighters safe. People driving through the area should expect to see smoke and may observe flames at times. If anyone sees anything of concern, they should call 111 and report it.

Fire Investigators are back at the fireground today to continue establishing the origin and cause of the fire, which was reported about 2.30pm yesterday. Dave Key says several people have already come forward with very useful information, photos and video footage of the early stages of the fire.

Conditions are expected to become more challenging this afternoon, with high temperatures and strong winds forecast.

MIL OSI