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Fire Safety – Outdoor fires restricted in parts of West Coast from today

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a restricted fire season for the Grey and Buller Inland areas from 8am today, until further notice.
A restricted fire season means anyone who wants to light an outdoor fire will need a fire permit authorised by Fire and Emergency, which they can apply for at checkitsalright.nz.
West Coast District Manager Myles Taylor says although there is likely to be some rain in the district over the next couple of days, it won’t be enough to make a difference in places where the vegetation is now so dry.
“Because the West Coast is normally so lush, we have a lot of vegetation that becomes a fire risk when it dries out,” he says.
“That’s especially the case in the Grey and Buller Inland areas, where there’s flammable vegetation such as gorse, kānuka, and grasses near native forest and forestry blocks.
“Restricting the number of fires that can be lit reduces the chances of a fire getting out of control during this high-risk time.”
Myles Taylor says significant wildfires are becoming more frequent in New Zealand, due to hotter, drier weather patterns.
“Around 97% of New Zealand’s wildfires are caused by people, so we know we can prevent them if we try,” he says.
“Before lighting a fire, go to checkitsalright.nz and enter your address to find out what fire season you’re in, and what conditions you would need to meet to light a fire, or if it’s permitted at all.
“We’re also asking people on the West Coast to help us protect our people, property, environment and wildlife, by avoiding activities which could start a fire.
“These include using power tools or mowing the lawns in the hottest part of the day, or parking a hot vehicle on long, dry grass.”
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Government Cuts – New Science Minister must guarantee no further cuts to science jobs

Source: PSA

The PSA is calling on incoming Science Minister Shane Reti to commit to retaining New Zealand’s valuable science workforce and prevent any further job losses.
Shane Reiti is sworn in today as the new Science, Innovation and Technology Minister.
“It was very disappointing to hear the outgoing MInister, Judith Collins, on Morning Report fail to say there will be no more cuts to a workforce already decimated by the chaotic and rushed cuts she ordered as Minister,” said Fleur Fitzsimons Acting National Secretary for Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
Some 500 scientists, researchers and lab workers have already lost their jobs and many have headed overseas where they are valued.
“The country can’t afford to lose any more skilled workers – the reforms Minister Reti will now drive will only succeed if the Government properly respects and values the existing workforce who now face more uncertainty on top of a year of restructuring.
“The Government makes a big deal about attracting skilled people to New Zealand to drive economic growth – it should make the same commitment to our science workers who live here now. Without that, more workers may just seek more secure jobs overseas.
“It must also commit to investing more in the facilities science workers need to do their best work. The Gluckman report said science was very underfunded already, but the Government has not made any promise to increase investment. One of its first acts was to scrap the previous Government’s big upgrade to labs and other facilities.
“If the Government is serious about using science to drive economic growth, it must invest more and retain the science workforce.”
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Energy Sector – ERANZ welcomes Hon Simon Watts as Energy Minister

Source: Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ)

The Electricity Retailers’ Association of New Zealand (ERANZ) congratulates Minister Watts on his appointment as Energy Minister and welcomes him to the role.

ERANZ Chief Executive Bridget Abernethy says it’s good to see the Energy portfolio combined with Climate Change under the same minister because it further supports pragmatic policy solutions as New Zealand transitions to a clean, secure, and renewable energy system.

“There is a huge amount of work underway as New Zealand (and the rest of the world) transitions to a renewable electricity system. Thanks to our electricity generation base, which is already 85-90% renewable, we’re well-placed for this transition.”

However, Abernethy says much more investment is required over the coming years to meet rising demand and to reach NetZero by 2050.

“ERANZ members will be investing $10 billion by 2030 alone, and the Government has a key role in fostering this investment.”

She says ERANZ is looking forward to working with the Government to position New Zealand for a prosperous future powered by renewable electricity.

“ERANZ supports the measured work the Electricity Authority is doing with its task force and the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment’s (MBIE) current policy programme.

“We look forward to working with the new Minister to seek market-based solutions that drive the best long-term outcomes for consumers and support a low-carbon, electrified future for New Zealand.”

Abernethy also said ERANZ would like to thank and acknowledge Hon Simeon Brown for his work as Energy Minister.

“We wish Minister Brown well in his new portfolios.”

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Energy Sector – Energy Resources Aotearoa welcomes new Minister of Energy

Source: Energy Resources Aotearoa

Energy Resources Aotearoa welcomes the appointment of Hon Simon Watts as the new Minister of Energy.
Energy Resources Aotearoa Chief Executive John Carnegie says he is hopeful that Minister Watts will continue to collaborate across Government to provide clear direction on New Zealand’s energy system aspirations.
“Minister Brown set a strong platform to reset energy policy, reducing the previous Government’s interventions and focusing on a market-driven approach. The sector hopes Minister Watts will continue to guide the portfolio to become the foundation of a prosperous future for New Zealand.”
Carnegie says New Zealand desperately needs fresh investment in all fuels to flood electricity into a market that desperately needs more generation.
“The Government Policy Statement (GPS) on electricity offered a clear summary of how the sector has been ‘reset’ to a market-led, fuels-agnostic, and technology-first approach, making it clear that only abundance – of both fuels and technology – can deliver downward pressure on energy prices.
We hope the new Minister will build on this by unlocking investment and reducing the regulatory barriers affecting energy costs. Our economy is struggling, families face high living costs, and our industrial sector faces fierce international competition. Much work remains.”
Energy Resources Aotearoa has worked closely with Minister Watts before. It looks forward to continuing this productive relationship to ensure that the Minister maintains a strong focus on ensuring that NZ has secure, reliable, and affordable energy.
“Let’s advance our renewable energy supply, but let’s also say yes to consistent and dependable firming to support these intermittent sources and deliver the affordable and secure energy we need to power a more competitive economy,” Carnegie says.
About Energy Resources Aotearoa
Energy Resources Aotearoa is New Zealand’s peak energy industry body. We represent participants from right across the energy system, providing a strategic sector perspective on energy issues and their adjacent portfolios. Please visit our website for further details about our members and to learn more about Energy Resources Aotearoa’s initiatives.
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Upcoming SH10 chipsealing work

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) will be kicking off chipsealing on State Highway 10 near Waipapa from the end of next week.

Three sites are planned for chipsealing:

  • South of Waimate North Rd
  • Between the Waipekakoura River and Kahikatearoa Ln
  • At Pungaere Rd

All work will be carried out at night under stop/go traffic management to minimise disruption for road users, with each site scheduled to take one night. Temporary speed limits and traffic management will remain in place the following day to guide traffic over the new seal and help to embed it successfully.

It’s important to slow down through newly sealed sections of road because small chips can be flicked up from the road surface and damage vehicles – especially windscreens. That’s why we often keep temporary speed limits in place even after it looks like the work has been completed. As well as safety, the temporary speed limit also helps ensure the quality of the reseal. Travelling at the posted temporary speed limit allows for the chips to be embedded into the road surface and for them to remain in place as the seal cures.

This work is expected to be complete by mid-February, weather dependent.

Chipsealing helps ensure a smooth, skid-resistant surface, free of potholes and slippery sections to reduce the risk of crashes and help keep everyone traveling on our roads safe.

Details of specific work sites for the week ahead can be found on the Northland State Highway Maintenance Programme website. However, work is weather dependent and there may be changes to the planned works in the case of unsuitable weather. Please visit the NZTA Journey Planner website up-to-date information, including any changes due to weather. 

Northland State Highway Maintenance Programme(external link)

Journey Planner(external link)

This work is part of Northland’s significant summer maintenance programme, which will see approximately 210 lane kilometres of state highway renewed across the region by the end of May.

NZTA thanks everyone for their understanding and support while we carry out this essential maintenance.

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Appeal for witnesses after serious crash near Te Kauwhata

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Waikato Police are appealing for witnesses after a serious crash near Te Kauwhata yesterday evening.

The single vehicle crash occurred at the intersection of Waerenga Road and Belcher Road, and was reported to Police at 6.35pm.

The driver was the sole occupant of the car and was transported to hospital in a serious condition.

“We would like to hear from anyone who saw a black Holden Colorado travelling east on Waerenga Road from the Te Kauwhata township at around 6.30pm,” says Northwestern Waikato road policing supervisor Sergeant Steven Jones.

“Anyone with information could provide valuable assistance to the crash investigation.”

If you can help, please update us online now or call 105, using file number 250123/2824.

“Police would also like to thank members of the public who provided assistance to the injured driver before emergency services arrived,” says Sergeant Jones.

“We know that these incidents can be very upsetting for members of the public who are first on the scene. We want to ensure that anyone who needs support knows they can contact Police to get assistance in accessing support services, including Victim Support.”

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre. 

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Backcountry huts get IVL funding boost

Source: Department of Conservation

Date:  23 January 2025

DOC has received $4.2m from the International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) to work with others to maintain highly-valued huts and tracks, over four years.

Dubbed the ‘Community Hut Programme’, this money allows DOC and BCT to work in partnership on DOC huts and tracks valued by the hunters, fishers, trampers and others who use them.

“The Community Hut Programme is critical to the Backcountry Trust and DOC being able to deliver extra value to the backcountry community,” says Rob Brown BCT’s National Operations Manager.

“Interested groups or individuals should contact the BCT to discuss projects they have in mind.”

Rob Brown thanks the generosity of the many volunteers and sponsors who are also critical in supporting the work.

The Department has a huge job, says DOC Director of Heritage and Visitors, Catherine Wilson.

“The Community Hut Programme will support others to maintain huts and tracks on public conservation land through volunteer work and donated materials.

“With a third of the country to manage, including thousands of species, huts, tracks, heritage sites and marine areas, we need communities behind us.

“Many DOC experiences are in high demand from Kiwis and international visitors. This popularity, combined with remote locations and increasing climate change pressures, puts strain on the visitor network and creates high maintenance costs.

“We want to deliver a shared backcountry network that connects people to nature through recreation and builds a collective commitment to the backcountry for future generations.”

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

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Business and Politics – Government answers businesses’ call for growth centred policies

Source: Business Canterbury

Business Canterbury welcomes the Prime Minister’s comments in his State of the Nation speech today, announcing that economic growth will influence all decisions this year and that nothing is off the table as many businesses look ahead to 2025 with cautious optimism, but with plans for investment and growth ready to go.
Business Canterbury Chief Executive, Leeann Watson says, “Businesses have been navigating an elastic band economy over the last five years, dealing with a global pandemic, supply chain issues, unprecedented labour market constraints, and then crippling inflation and interest rate pressure which also caused consumer confidence and demand to plummet”
“The last six months have seen a turnaround in business confidence, with many looking ahead at 2025 with the hope that it will be a better year, despite challenges remaining with cashflow and demand.”
In Business Canterbury’s December business confidence survey, a net 57% of businesses said they anticipate stronger financial performance in the coming months, the highest level recorded since mid-2022.
Watson says, “While business confidence has turned around relatively quickly in Canterbury, expectations of investment in property, plant and equipment, as well as staff hiring intentions, have been a tougher ask.”
“Local businesses have been calling for policies that help the economy regain momentum, allowing them to grow with confidence.
“For growth to take off, there must be continued efforts to cut red tape, ensuring businesses are not bogged down by clumsy rules and regulations.
“The Prime Minister confirmed today that the government will be moving forward with health and safety reform – a step businesses will welcome. This comes as 42% of Canterbury businesses tell us that current health and safety requirements poorly or very poorly balance risk with cost and productivity.
“Another priority for the government should be the Holidays Act – which is a handbrake for businesses, often monopolising time and causing stress for small businesses and those with a predominantly casual or part time workforce.
“Even changes to procurement rules could unlock significant growth opportunities – with 39% of Canterbury businesses saying they don’t tender for public contracts because they don’t know how to or it is simply too hard – with many commenting that the way the system is set up stifles innovation and only nods to prioritising New Zealand businesses.
“Access to capital has long been a barrier to many New Zealand businesses looking to grow onto the world stage. With Christchurch and Canterbury now being a hub for aerospace, food and fibre tech, health tech, and high-tech services, the announcement of a dedicated body for attracting and facilitating foreign investment could be a game-changer for our region.
“With ‘nothing off the table’, Business Canterbury looks forward to continuing to work with government on policies that enable an environment for innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.”
About Business Canterbury
Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the largest business support agency in the South Island and advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.
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Fire Safety – Offenders sentenced for lighting the 2022 Awarua Wetlands wildfire during a total fire ban

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand acknowledges the sentences handed down today in the Invercargill District Court for offences under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017.
Deputy National Commander, Steph Rotarangi, says the offences related to a fire lit in the Awarua Wetlands in Southland on 2 April 2022 during a prohibited fire season where a total fire ban was in place.
Offenders have pleaded guilty to fire-related offences, including lighting a fire during a prohibited season and allowing fires to get out of control and spread. Sentencing has been issued for some, while another will be sentenced at a later date.
“The fire burnt through 1,330 hectares and had environmental and financial consequences in an internationally recognised conservation area. Fire and Emergency fought the fire for over a week” Steph Rotarangi says.
“Fire and Emergency declares or revokes prohibited or restricted fire seasons based on weather and ground conditions. We do this to prevent fires and keep people, property, and the environment safe from unwanted fire.
Compliance with fire safety regulations is essential, particularly in areas under a prohibited or restricted fire season where lighting fires in the open air is not permitted. While most individuals adhere to these requirements, clear breaches of fire safety legislation carry penalties.
“Given the significance of the impact of the Awarua Wetlands fire, and the fact the area was under a total fire ban, we considered it appropriate to prosecute three individuals for the fire.”
Department of Conservation (DOC) Southern South Island Operations Director Aaron Fleming, says the Awarua Wetlands fire caused significant damage to the biodiversity and ecosystem of the wetlands, caused vast carbon emissions, and seriously set back DOC’s conservation work in the area.
“Awarua Wetlands is one of the largest remaining wetland complexes in this country and was recognised as New Zealand’s first Ramsar Convention on Wetlands site of international importance in 1976.
“The fire burned about 980ha of wetland plants, which is an important habitat for threatened species like matuku-hūrepo/Australasian bittern and other birds, plants, insects, lizards, and fish. It also injured or killed a high number of animals.
“Weeds like gorse and Spanish heath are already beginning to invade the burned areas, in some places outcompeting native plants.
“Wetlands like Awarua store vast amounts of carbon, built up over thousands of years, which is released in fires like this one. It is estimated about 104,000 tonnes of carbon emissions were released into the atmosphere from this fire – equivalent to driving about 409,829,000 kilometres in an average petrol car.”
Steph Rotarangi says it is essential to not light fires in prohibited fire seasons, or in restricted seasons without a fire permit, and to check the weather conditions.
“We ask people who are considering lighting a fire in the outdoors to check the local fire danger and fire season at www.checkitsalright.nz.
Always make sure your fire is fully extinguished and check again the next day. If your fire gets out of control, you must call Fire and Emergency on 111 as soon as possible.
“Everyone should make an effort to know the fire danger and fire season and get fire safety advice at www.checkitsalright.nz whatever they’re doing and wherever they are.”
One offender was sentenced in relation to two offences under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act relating to lighting a fire in a prohibited fire season and allowing a fire to get out of control and spread. The offender was sentenced to 7 months’ home detention with post detention conditions, and to pay reparation of $10,000.
Another offender was sentenced in relation to an offence under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act relating to allowing a fire to get out of control and spread. The offender was sentenced to 200 hours community work and 12 months supervision, and to pay reparation of $10,000.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand’s successful prosecution following the significant Awarua Wetlands fire in Southland in April 2022 is the second prosecution under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017. Our first prosecution resulted in an $18,000 fine for an unauthorised burn-off.
Fire and Emergency’s primary focus will always be on reducing risk through providing education and advice, so organisations and individuals can clearly understand the risks that exist, and to provide them with the tools and information they need to comply.
In cases where Fire and Emergency determines non-compliance to be of a serious nature, it has a range of enforcement options available under the Fire and Emergency New Zealand Act 2017, and its associated legislation, from issuing of infringements through to undertaking legal proceedings.
The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty for the conservation and wise use of wetlands, adopted in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971. The primary purpose of the Ramsar Convention is to promote the conservation and wise use of wetlands through international cooperation.
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Universities – Vice-Chancellor responds to research and science reforms – University of Auckland

Source: University of Auckland (UoA)

The Vice-Chancellor of New Zealand’s leading university, and the country’s largest research-led institution, says the changes announced today by the government to reform the science sector, informed by the first report of theScience System Advisory Group, will need to incorporate robust systems to identify funding priorities and measure research impact.
 
Responding to the research and science reforms, the University of Auckland’s Professor Dawn Freshwater welcomed the emphasis on research impact and end-user outcomes.
 
“We will always require investment in basic science and discovery. Research is an ecosystem that starts with these fundamentals.
 
“New Zealand has pockets of world-leading science and discovery. However, the pipeline to innovation, translation and commercialisation must be joined up with government, business, industry and incentivised researchers working together.”
 
In this context, Professor Freshwater says that focused discovery, translation application and commercialisation will better deliver innovation, economic development, skill and novel contributions to societal challenges. She applauded changes to incentivise quality, relevant and impactful research.
 
However, she added that the system must have a “coherent strategy and governance around funding priorities and investments as well as ways of monitoring, evaluating and measuring the impact and outcomes across all domains”.
 
Professor Freshwater says it is also essential that New Zealand’s research takes account of the research relevance in social sciences and humanities and their importance in enhancing and advancing societies and creating social cohesion.
 
Noting the recently released global report on trust in science and the comparatively high levels of trust in New Zealand, Professor Freshwater says, “We must now build on that trust as a nation and realise this strength amongst New Zealanders.
 
“Universities are committed to a future-focused, relevant and impactful role as part of a recharged and reformed research and science ecosystem. International collaborations are essential to maximise this, creating strength and the potential to deliver world-leading outcomes with reach well beyond New Zealand.”
 
Among the changes revealed today, Science, Innovation and Technology Minister Judith Collins announced that the seven Crown Research Institutes will be consolidated into four Public Research Organisations. Read more: (ref. http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/reforms-boost-science-sector-and-economy )