September 30
September 27
September 26
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High tide road warning
The NZ Transport Agency advises Auckland drivers that exceptionally high tides are forecast for the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours later this week, and there is a risk some low lying sections of the city’s motorway network may flood.
September 22
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NZ water quality deteriorating
A recent OECD report describes New Zealand’s water quality as ‘good’ relative to most OECD countries but says that it is deteriorating.
September 21
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RWC tourist spending tops $12 million
The latest figures from Paymark show that spending via overseas credit cards through its network is up a huge 32.5 per cent, or $12.0 million, in the first 10 days of the RWC (compared to the same 10 days in 2010).
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Free TV recycling launched
New Zealanders have the opportunity over the next fortnight to responsibly dispose of their old TV for free at The Warehouse as part of the Government’s Love New Zealand recycling programme, Environment Minister Nick Smith says.
September 20
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Mainland recalls three products
Fonterra Brands (New Zealand) Ltd is conducting a voluntary recall of three of its products.
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Maori in the City returns to Auckland
Atamira - Maori in the City 2011, the largest three day celebration of Maori culture, will return to Auckland this October, the free festival is sponsored by Bank of New Zealand and promises a showcase of Maori culture, art, performance, sport and food.
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Whangaparaoa student a national winner
Whangaparaoa College student, Eve Bain, 17, has won the inaugural Battle of Passchendaele Multi-Media Competition, Veterans’ Affairs Minister Judith Collins announced today.
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Whangarei game a sellout
Northland’s second Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) Pool match in Whangarei tomorrow (Wednesday 21 September) is a sell-out.
September 19
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Orca dies at Wangaparaoa
Department of Conservation (DOC) rangers have taken a female orca calf that died after stranding near Whangaparoa Peninsula to Massey University’s Albany campus where a necropsy will be performed to try and determine the cause of death.
September 16
September 15
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“24 Hours of Reality” ready to go
Al Gore’s climate change worldwide event “24 Hours of Reality” is nearing its launch. Designed to broadcast the reality of the climate crisis, this event will be broadcast live online from September 14 to 15, over 24 hours, in 24 time zones and in 13 languages.
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Museum showcases rugby heritage
The Mid-Northern rugby team has turned out many successful players over the years and its story will be showcased at Hukerenui’s Jack Morgan Museum during the World Cup.
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$48 million in crime assets seized
Cash and assets worth around $48 million have been seized under new legislation enabling Police to confiscate the proceeds of crime, Police Minister Judith Collins said today.
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Battle of Britain vets remembered
Veterans Affairs Minister Judith Collins today paid tribute to the New Zealand airmen who fought in the Battle of Britain, one of the crucial turning points of the Second World War.
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Slowing of ETS recommended by Review Panel
he Government today released the Emissions Trading Scheme Review Panel’s report – Doing New Zealand’s Fair Share – that recommends the implementation of the scheme be slowed down.
September 14
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Whangarei RWC sellout
Northland’s first Rugby World Cup 2011 Pool match today looks like being a sell-out.
September 8
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World first launched in Auckland
The world’s first fully integrated metropolitan WiFi system, including free roaming WiFi access across the central city and on public transport, has gone live in Auckland.
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Travel early for RWC kick-off
Traffic on Auckland’s motorway network will be heavy tomorrow (Friday, 9 September) leading up to the start of Rugby World Cup 2011and people should plan to travel early to reach their destinations safely and on time.
September 7
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Move towards TV recycling
The first step in a new nationwide programme to encourage the recycling and safe disposal of unwanted televisions was announced by Environment Minister Nick Smith today.
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Museum celebrates Maori rugby
A new exhibition opening at Auckland Museum on Friday, September 9, illustrates the contribution Maori players have made to this country's national game and to the sport around the world.
September 6
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PSA protests at Department of Conservation cuts
New details from the Department of Conservation (DOC) on job cuts first announced in July show punitive government budget cuts are squeezing DOC out of the regions, according to the Public Service Association.
September 5
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Research on national identity
A nationwide survey of Year 12 students launched this week by a team of researchers at Massey University hopes to significantly advance NZ's understanding of national identity.
September 1
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Give Way rule changes confirmed
Transport Minister Steven Joyce has signed a Rule that will change the give way rules at intersections from March 2012.
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Motorcycle licensing changes announced
The government has confirmed a series of Rule changes that will improve the licensing and safety of motorcycle riders.
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World War I centenary plans
Government will mark the centenary of the First World War beginning in 2014 with significant international and domestic projects and ceremonies, Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Christopher Finlayson announced today.
Foreign charter fishing vessel inquiry
Written submissions to the Ministerial Panel inquiring into Foreign Charter Vessels fishing in New Zealand’s Exclusive Economic Zone close next week.
Panel Chair Paul Swain said it was important to get input from as many interested parties as possible.
The Inquiry Panel is planning to hold public hearings in Auckland, Wellington, Nelson and Christchurch during October. In addition, the Panel plans to visit fishing vessels.
Mr Swain said all parties making a submission would be given the option of appearing in person before the Panel.
Submissions close at 5 pm on Friday 7 October.
The Panel is due to report its findings and recommendations to the Ministers of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Labour on 24 February 2012.
Further information about the Inquiry, including the Panel’s terms of reference, can be found at www.fish.govt.nz. Written submissions lodged with the Panel will be placed on this website.
Panel Members: Paul Swain (Chair), Sarah McGrath and Neil Walter.
Enquiries to the Secretariat: Andrew Hill (Project Manager), 04 819 4609 or Andrew.Hill@maf.govt.nz.
Akld needs smart green transport
A World Health Organisation (WHO) survey released today shows that Auckland needs a smart green transport plan for cleaner air.
The WHO survey shows Auckland has New Zealand's worst air pollution, which is at levels nearly double that of Sydney.
“More people in Auckland are dying from air pollution than in road crashes,” said Green Party Transport spokesperson Gareth Hughes.
“Air pollution costs our health system, it’s bad for our people and it’s bad for the economy.
“This not the fault of the local authorities, as most of the pollution comes from motor vehicles.”
Mr Hughes said there was a need for central government leadership on smart green transport funding and on emissions testing for vehicles.
“This Government has effectively cut funding for public transport, walking and cycling, and abandoned emissions standards for cars. The last Government didn’t do enough to improve public transport or establish stricter emissions testing for vehicles either,” said Mr Hughes.
“Transport decisions over successive governments have seen Aucklanders paying high health, fuel and transport costs.
“New Zealanders want and need smart green transport investment. Aucklanders want a vibrant city they can get around, without having to fill it with cars and smog.
“The Green Party will work constructively with the next Government to get better buses and trains, safe walking and cycling, and cleaner air for Auckland,” said Mr Hughes.
Muscular dystrophy register launched
Today was the official launch of the New Zealand Neuromuscular Disease Registry.
Major progress has been made overseas in recent years towards new treatments for conditions like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy, which are two of the different neuromuscular conditions the Muscular Dystrophy Association of New Zealand supports.
Many treatments target specific genetic defects, some of which are rare and affect only a few individuals in the world. When a trial of these treatments is being planned anywhere in the world, it is important that suitable individuals can be found and contacted quickly in order to participate.
The best way of ensuring this can happen is to collect an individual’s details in a registry; hence the development of the NMD registry. This New Zealand registry will contain information important to researchers such as individual’s particular genetic test result. The NMD registry is the first of its kind in the country and has been a collaborative effort between the Muscular Dystrophy Association, Auckland District Health Board, and the Office of Population Health Genomics in Perth, with funding provided by the Richdale Trust.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association is a not-for-profit aimed at providing support to kiwis and their families living with neuromuscular conditions. These conditions can be devastating for those diagnosed. Symptoms can appear just after birth or for others not until much later in life.
The Muscular Dystrophy Association’s Chief Executive, Chris Higgins says; “Many of our members have previously led physically active lives and then lost the ability to walk and do other activities that many take for granted. Others are diagnosed in childhood. Neuromuscular conditions can affect people from all walks of life”. Mr Higgins goes on to say, “the neuromuscular disease registry is hugely important as it creates opportunities for New Zealanders to participate in overseas trials for treatments”.
Among those who attended the launch was MDA Member Kerry Hills, who was the first person to join the NMD registry. Kerry was diagnosed Spinal Muscular Atrophy when he was young and is “looking forward to this registry opening the door for new research and a possible treatments.”
The registry’s Curator, Miriam Rodrigues and MDA Chief Executive Chris Higgins were there to celebrate the launch with the official opening officiated by MDA Patron, Judy Bailey. Others that also attended were Genetics Neurologist, Dr Richard Roxburgh, Starship Paediatric Neurologist Dr Rakesh Patel and University of Auckland’s Dr Russell Snell.
High tides forecast for Auckland
The NZ Transport Agency advises Auckland drivers that exceptionally high tides are forecast for the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours later this week, and there is a risk some low lying sections of the city’s motorway network may flood.
High tides of up to 3.6m – about 0.5 of a metre higher than normal - are expected between Tuesday, 27 September, and Sunday 2 October. They will be at their peak on Thursday and Friday morning when commuter traffic volumes will be high.
“There could be some flooding, but the tides don’t pose a significant risk to the safe operation of Auckland’s motorways”, says the NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker.
The area most at risk is the section of the highway and adjoining cycleway on the Northwestern Motorway (State Highway 16) causeway between the Patiki Road Interchange and the Rosebank Road Bridges.
“When the tides peak the cycleway will definitely be underwater, and we are asking cyclists to try to avoid using it 1.5 hours either side of high tide,” says Mr Parker. “Drivers should also cross the causeway with more care, and If necessary we will divert them on to arterial roads so that they can continue their journeys safely.”
As part of its project to complete the Western Ring Route motorway alternative to SH1, the NZTA is planning to raise the causeway by 1.5 metres and increase its width to provide extra lanes.
For more information on tide times, alternative routes or planned detours and closures please contact NZTA Auckland Motorways on 09 5200 200, email
help@ama.nzta.govt.nz or visit
www.aucklandmotorways.com
NZ water quality deteriorating
A recent OECD report describes New Zealand’s water quality as ‘good’ relative to most OECD countries but says that it is deteriorating.
This deterioration is due, in large part, to diffuse pollution from agriculture, says Dr Kevin Parris of the Trade and Agriculture Directorate, OECD in Paris, France. Dr Parris is a plenary speaker at the DIPCON conference, in Rotorua.
New Zealand’s agriculture is vital to its economy. As New Zealand’s agriculture sector expands, more pressure is put on its environmental systems. Agriculture contributes to water pollution through excess nutrients, pesticides and other pollutants.
Public opinion surveys across OECD countries in recent years have consistently ranked water pollution as one of the top public environmental concerns.
Agricultural nutrients are a major pressure on river, lake and marine water quality, and this is assessed by OECD through nutrient balances, says Dr Parris. “We look at all the nitrogen and phosphorus going into the system, mainly from livestock manure and fertilisers and calculate how much nutrients are used to grow crops and pasture. In most situations there is a surplus of nutrients to crop and pasture requirements which places stress on the environment (soils, water and the air). In 2000, the average for New Zealand was around 35 kilograms of nitrogen per hectare. By 2008 it was about 45 kilograms per hectare. In ten years it has gone up 10 kilograms.”
In 2000, the average for the 34 OECD countries was 80 kilograms per hectare. In 2008 the average for OECD countries had come down to 65 kilograms per hectare. Interestingly, among the worst ranked was the Netherlands with a surplus of over 200 kilos per hectare. “They have a lot of cows and not much land,” says Dr Parris.
Agriculture is a major user of water, and worldwide we face the enormous challenge of producing almost 50% more food by 2030, and doubling production by 2050. This will place still further stress on water quality in New Zealand and worldwide.
There is a “time-bomb” effect from this agricultural expansion. Nitrogen and phosphorus can sit in soil for a long time before they appear in water. “Because of these time lags, in some catchments, we won’t necessarily see the effects of current farming practices for another 30-40 years,” says Dr Parris.
In exploring new policy opportunities and market approaches to minimise diffuse source pollution from agriculture across OECD countries in a report to be published in early 2012, Dr Parris examines the policy, challenges, reforms, opportunities and policy governance issues that face the sector. His findings across OECD countries reveal that policies have generally fallen short of what is required to meet water quality goals in agriculture, including in New Zealand. This is mainly a result of:
• inefficiency and failure in enforcing water pollution regulations,
• increasing budgetary costs of support to farmers to control pollution,
• frustration with the time required and institutional barriers to introduce new policies,
• lack of understanding of the scale and time delays of diffuse pollution,
• and insufficient attention to the establishment of a more inclusive stakeholder process.
Among the key policy messages from the OECD report, Dr Parris recommends using a mix of policy ideas to address water pollution, including enforcing compliance with existing water quality regulations and encouraging cooperative approaches in water catchments that are inclusive to all the major stakeholders concerned with water pollution (e.g. farmers, environmental groups, local government).
RWC tourist spending tops $12 million
The latest figures from Paymark show that spending via overseas credit cards through its network is up a huge 32.5 per cent, or $12.0 million, in the first 10 days of the RWC (compared to the same 10 days in 2010).
For the country as a whole, spending across both international and local cards has predictably continued to benefit selected sectors, with rental car outlets enjoying an extra $2.1 million (+ 32.5 per cent year-on-year) and accommodation providers taking an extra $0.9 million (+ 4.1 per cent year-on-year).
Hospitality has been very busy keeping up with rugby fans’ food and beverage requirements, with an extra $9.2 million spent during the Cup’s opening 10 days – an increase of 10.3 per cent year-on-year.
Paymark CEO, Simon Tong, says that the pockets of regional spending paint a picture of tourists following their teams as they move to different cities and making the most of their time in the country.
“Again this week we’ve seen big splashes of spending amongst the likely candidates of hospitality and car rentals, and surges in the cities playing host to the games. However, spending in general outside these sectors is tracking at a more modest 3.5 per cent annual growth rate.
“So while it’s clear that host cities and specific sectors are seeing great benefit from the RWC, for others the story hasn’t changed a great deal.
“We’re hearing a lot of this from customers in the more discretionary categories who are yet to feel any real impact from the RWC. With another influx of tourists expected to arrive for the finals, let’s hope we see a pickup in the wider retail sector,” says Simon Tong.
In terms of combined car rental, accommodation and hospitality spending, Southland, Waikato, Taranaki/Taupo, Otago and Northland/Auckland have had the largest spending injections.
The Southland rush was largest on Sunday 18 September when spending in the combined category was up $123,000 on the same Sunday in 2010, an increase of 43.3 per cent.
Spending in Otago was strong on both weekends but the largest increase came on Sunday September 11 with an extra $235,000.
The Taranaki/Taupo surge was strongest the day after Ireland took on the USA – Monday September 12 – when spending leapt by $101,000 or 76.5 per cent.
Waikato’s big spend-up occurred throughout the weekend of the 16th - 18th September, with spending on Saturday up $529,000 or 66.9 per cent.
The Auckland/Northland surge occurred both weekends with the largest one-day surge being an extra $1.5 million or 25.1 per cent on Saturday 10 September.
Free TV recycling launched
New Zealanders have the opportunity over the next fortnight to responsibly dispose of their old TV for free at The Warehouse as part of the Government’s Love New Zealand recycling programme, Environment Minister Nick Smith says.
“The Rugby World Cup, the impending switch from analogue to digital television and the competitive price of new TVs are creating a surge in unwanted TVs and an environmental problem in how they are disposed of. There are 2.2 million old cathode ray tube TVs containing 4000 tonnes of lead that we don’t want going to landfills. It is estimated that more than 500,000 will be retired this year,” Dr Smith said.
“Old TVs are a difficult recycling challenge. It is uneconomic without a charge or Government assistance yet they pose an environmental hazard. The Great TV Take Back scheme – a first for New Zealand – is about encouraging Kiwis to do the right thing. This programme will enable the recycling of 96% of the materials in a TV set.
“This is a genuine free recycling service with no requirement to buy a TV from The Warehouse or take back an old TV purchased from The Warehouse. The scheme is also promoting the broader Love NZ message of extending public recycling beyond kerbside glass, paper and plastic services.”
The Love NZ recycling programme is about changing social attitudes to waste and has been stepped up this year to coincide with the Rugby World Cup with more than 2500 new public place recycling bins to reduce waste and reinforce internationally our clean, green brand. The Great TV Take Back runs from 21 September to 4 October 2011.
“This programme is being part funded by the Government through the Waste Minimisation Fund and funding depends on the number of TVs recycled. We have made a request for proposals to other electrical retailers to join with this Love NZ programme and provide opportunities for recycling electronic waste, particularly TVs. We hope The Warehouse partnership is just one of many from the electronic sector as the TV waste problem is huge and will require many such initiatives,” Dr Smith said.
“My message to New Zealanders is to grasp this opportunity and take that old TV that is clogging up space in the garage down to The Warehouse so it can be responsibly recycled for free.”
Mainland recalls three products
Fonterra Brands (New Zealand) Ltd (FBNZ) is conducting a voluntary recall of the following products:
Mainland Tasty Block 500g
- Best Before date of 28 March 2012 (Batches JI and JE)
Mainland Tasty Block 700g
- Best before date of 28 April 2012 (Batch JF)
Mainland Tasty Block 1kg
- Best before date of 28 December 2011 (Batch BD)
- Best before date of 28 January 2012 (Batches AB, AC and AD)
- Best before date of 28 February 2012 (Batch BF)
Dominic Quin, FBNZ General Manager Marketing and Innovation, said that the recall follows the detection of a metal fragment found in a single pack. There have been no reports of anyone being injured or becoming ill.
“The voluntary recall is a precautionary measure as there can be no compromise when it comes to product quality or the health and safety of our consumers.
“We advise anyone with family or friends who may have bought this product to contact them in case they do not see or hear this announcement,” Mr Quin said.
Consumers should not consume the above-stated products but should return them to the point of purchase (with the appropriate packaging (batch code included)) for a full refund.
This recall is limited to the above-stated products and no other Mainland products are affected.
Food recall notices have been placed in daily newspapers across New Zealand this week and authorities have been notified.
For further information, consumers should call the FBNZ Customer and Consumer Services line: 0800 256 257.
Maori culture takes centre stage
Atamira - Maori in the City 2011, the largest three day celebration of Maori culture, will return to Auckland this October, the free festival is sponsored by Bank of New Zealand and promises a showcase of Maori culture, art, performance, sport and food.
The timing of the festival coincides with rugby quarterfinals and festival organisers are looking forward to offering both international and local visitors a unique Maori cultural experience that includes music, dance, fashion, art, craft market and food stalls in a fun family atmosphere.
“It’s heartening to see the response from overseas visitors planning to attend ATAMIRA – Maori in the City, we have always intended this year’s event to be an opportunity to showcase Maori culture to the world,” says event director Alec Hawke.
BNZ Head of Maori Business, Pierre Tohe says the bank is pleased to be able to support such a vibrant, cultural celebration, “At BNZ there is a genuine desire within the bank to promote Maori culture & business excellence, getting involved with ATAMIRA is a great way for us to do this.”
This year’s festival will be held at ASB Showground’s from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 October and will build on the huge success of the 2007 and 2009 ATAMIRA Maori in the City festivals, which attracted over 100,000 people.
A popular attraction of the festival is the food, visitors will be able to watch Maori cooking demonstrations and sample traditional and contemporary cuisine from stalls selling tasty food like whitebait fritters and hangi.
A highlight this year will be the Waahi Taonga area where visitors will be able to watch artists at work demonstrating ta moko (tattooing), and creating artworks of metal, wood, clay and stone. Master carvers will work on a traditional Maori waka (canoe) and artists will display fine art pieces.
On Saturday and Sunday, the music stage will be rocking with headline acts like Ardijah, House of Shem, Sons of Zion and Entourage, as well as everyone’s favourite, the “Streets to the Stage” Dance Competition.
The University of Auckland will partner with ATAMIRA this year to host the Tamaki Research Forum, where Māori researchers will share distinctive insights and perspectives into science and innovation. The Forum will hear from experts such as earth system scientist, Dr Dan Hikuroa about his new approaches in rehabilitating polluted land, lakes and waterways and how he is setting about the sustainability of natural resources.
Models will take to the stage to present fashions from top Maori designers. The fashion show, He Oranga Wahine Fashion Parade, will be presented by Ngakau Atawhai, a branch of the Maori Womens’ Welfare League branch, in support of Breast Cancer screening services.
ATAMIRA - Maori in the City is hosted by Ngati Whatua o Orakei with principal sponsor Bank of New Zealand and supported by Te Puni Kokiri, Ports of Auckland, Aotearoa Credit Union, ASB Community Trust, University of Auckland, Auckland City and the Lotteries Fund.
Whangaparaoa students wins
Whangaparaoa College student, Eve Bain, 17, has won the inaugural Battle of Passchendaele Multi-Media Competition, Veterans’ Affairs Minister Judith Collins announced today.
The annual competition was launched by Ms Collins to commemorate the Battle of Passchendaele which was fought in Belgium as part of the Allied offensive on the Western Front in 1917.
During the battle New Zealand suffered its greatest loss of life in a single day in New Zealand history.
“The battle, in which 2700 New Zealanders were listed as killed, wounded or missing in just two hours, was a monumental loss to this country. This competition was to help ensure that we never forget the sacrifice by these soldiers on that terrible day,” Ms Collins said.
“Eve’s entry, entitled
For The Cause Of The Empire, is a powerful tribute to those that sacrificed their lives during the battle.”
Ms Collins will present Eve with a $2000 education grant at a commemoration ceremony marking the 94th Anniversary of the Battle of Passchendaele, at the Auckland War Memorial Museum on October 12.
The judging panel for the Battle of Passchendaele Competition included Neill Atkinson, Chief Historian, Ministry for Culture and Heritage; Matt Gauldie, New Zealand Army Artist; Rick Ottaway, General Manager Veterans' Affairs New Zealand; Steve Russell, Director Corporate Service, New Zealand Film Archive; Professor Glyn Harper, Historian Massey University and member of the Passchendaele Society of New Zealand, and Mrs Margaret Snow, representing the Chief Executive of the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association.
Sell-out for second Whangarei RWC match
Northland’s second Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) Pool match in Whangarei tomorrow (SUBS: Wednesday 21 September) is a sell-out.
With the sell-out, we want to avoid disappointed fans showing up at the stadium expecting gate sales, especially those who might travel to Whangarei from other parts of the region or Auckland. There are no more tickets available.
“We are really pleased with the way Northlanders have taken to RWC 2011 and got behind all their visiting teams– the sea of red at last week’s match was wonderful and we are hoping to see it again for Tonga v Japan,” says Rugby New Zealand 2011 General Manager Marketing and Communications, Shane Harmon.
“If Northlanders need another taste of RWC excitement or have missed out on local games then they should look to go to matches down the road at Eden Park and North Harbour. There are still tickets available for many matches including the exciting quarter final and semi-final match-ups.” added Mr Harmon.
Fans are reminded to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to the match, especially as there will be a number of road closures around the Northland Events Centre and you will only be able to walk up to the games.
The Pool A match between Tonga v Japan kicks-off at 7.30pm at the Northland Events Centre in Whangarei.
Stranded orca dies
Department of Conservation (DOC) rangers have taken a female orca calf that died after stranding near Whangaparoa Peninsula to Massey University’s Albany campus where a necropsy will be performed to try and determine the cause of death.
The orca was found stranded on a mud bank at Duck Creek, a tributary of the Weiti River just south of the Whangaparoa Peninsula, around 5pm Thursday.
DOC Auckland marine ranger Martin Stanley says local residents called the department and tried to keep the orca alive but it died before a team of rangers and staff from Massey University arrived at the stranding site.
”The orca is a female calf about two year old and showed signs of emaciation.”
“It appears to have become separated from its pod or family group. At that age it should still be with its mother and may have struggled to forage for itself. That could have led to dehydration and starvation,” says Martin Stanley.
He praised the people who tried to save the orca. “We thank them for calling DOC and for doing what they could to try to keep the orca alive.”
Members of the public who see a marine mammal such as an orca or whale stranded or in distress should call the DOC’s 24 hour number 0800 DOC HOT (0800 362 468)
Downtown Auckland reorganised for RWC
Road closure
Quay Street will be closed between Britomart Place and Lower Hobson Street to enhance movement and pedestrian safety. Feeder streets - Lower Albert, Lower Hobson, Tyler Street, Gore Street and Commerce Street (between Customs Street and Quay Street) will also be closed or have managed access. Closures apply on the following dates:
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Midday Fri 16 – 11.30pm Sun 18 Sept
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Midday Fri 23 – 11.30pm Sun 25 Sept
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Midday Fri 30 – 11.30pm Sun 2 Oct
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Midday Fri 7 – 6am Monday 10 Oct
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Midday Fri 14 – 6am Monday 17 Oct
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Midday Fri 21 – 6am Mon 24 Oct
There will be managed access for businesses and residents during this period. The road closure will be communicated through newspaper and radio advertising, electronic street signs and via websites and social media channels.
Quay St
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Toilets will be provided along Quay St and in areas of the road closures and the waterfront precinct.
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Existing liquor bans will continue to apply in Quay St and to other parts of the waterfront precinct.
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A revised queuing system will be in place to provide clear management of queues for Queens Wharf
Queens Wharf
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Open from 11.30am on Fridays and from 10am on Saturdays and Sundays (from 8 October for the remainder of the Tournament Queens Wharf will open every day from 10am)
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A revised queuing system to provide clear management of queues will be in place.
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Entrance and exits will be clearly marked.
Captain Cook Wharf
Provision has been made to extend the Queens Wharf Fanzone to include Captain Cook Wharf to cater for additional numbers as required. Captain Cook Wharf will only operate when demand warrants.
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Captain Cook Wharf is an extension to the existing Queens Wharf Fanzone.
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Food and beverages will be available on Captain Cook Wharf, together with public amenities including toilets.
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An application for a Liquor Licence for Captain Cook Wharf has been made, but Captain Cook Wharf will be alcohol-free this weekend (16-18 September).
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Bag and security checks will apply for access onto Captain Cook Wharf.
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Two large screens are in place on Captain Cook Wharf and will be used when Captain Cook Wharf is activated. The screens will show all Queens Wharf Main Stage entertainment and RWC 2011 matches live.
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Provision for a small stage has been made in the consent application, however this will not be in place for this weekend (16-18 September). As the Tournament progresses, the activity on Captain Cook Wharf will be monitored and modified to suit requirements.
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All existing noise conditions as per the Queens Wharf resource consent will be adhered to and monitored by Auckland Council.
“24 Hours of Reality” ready to go
Al Gore’s climate change worldwide event “24 Hours of Reality” is nearing its launch. Designed to broadcast the reality of the climate crisis, this event will be broadcast live online from September 14 to 15, over 24 hours, in 24 time zones and in 13 languages.
The Sustainable Business Network’s (SBN) CEO, Rachel Brown, will deliver a multimedia presentation created by Al Gore to an audience of 80 gathered at Auckland Museum on Thursday 15 September 2011. Broadcasting to the world via live web-streaming, the theme of the presentation for New Zealand will be focused on agriculture, employment, and a shift to a green economy.
Kicking of the event, well-known actor and environmental campaigner, Lucy Lawless, will address the guests. When Ms Brown has completed her presentation, Carl Chenery from 350.org.nz, an official partner of the event in New Zealand, will provide his perspective on the issues.
Following this, the event will segue into a dialogue around action. At that stage, Ms Brown will welcome prominent NZ climate, agricultural and employment specialists to the stage with her. These include Barry Coates from Oxfam; Lee Barry from WWF; Philip Mills from Pure Advantage; Chris Morrison from All Good Organics; James Samuels from Transition Towns; Mark Roberts from Greenfleet; Steve Able from Greenpeace; Jennifer Nickel from Generation Zero; and Sarah Sinclair from SBN’s National Board.
Fulfilling the MC role is broadcaster and adjunct professor, Rod Oram, while David Clendon MP, will welcome guests with a traditional mihi.
“We’re looking forward to hosting the New Zealand part of this historic worldwide event and hearing from some of Aotearoa’s most exciting leaders in this space. Be prepared for an inspirational evening,” says Brown.
The purpose of the campaign is to offer a round-the-clock, round-the-globe snapshot of the climate crisis in real time. From Tonga to Cape Verde, Mexico City to Alaska, Jakarta to London, people living with the impacts of climate change every day will tell their story. Brown’s presentation will help to build a bigger picture whereby people living with the reality of climate change will connect the dots between recent extreme weather events — including floods, droughts and storms — and the manmade pollution that is changing our climate.
While the event itself is at capacity, people are encouraged to participate via ‘viewing parties’, either by joining an existing party or organising their own. Visit
http://climaterealityproject.org for more on how to get involved.
Museum showcases rugby heritage
The Mid-Northern rugby team has turned out many successful players over the years and its story will be showcased at Hukerenui’s Jack Morgan Museum during the World Cup.
The Mid-Northern – Northland – All Black “Going Country”, exhibition will feature the runner up team in this year’s Northland premier club rugby over the years.
Jack Morgan Museum Collections Manager Shirley Henwood says the exhibits will display the great number of talented players to have come from the Mid-Northern Rugby Club since it began 50 year’s ago next year.
“It turned out five All Blacks, ten Maori All Blacks; two New Zealand A’s; three New Zealand age groups, four Super Rugby; four New Zealand Secondary School and 50 Northland players.”
The All Blacks included brothers Sid and Ken Going, Joe Morgan, Des Webb and Todd Miller.
There will be a collection of jerseys and memorabilia from players such as Sid and Brian Going, David Holwell, Joe Morgan, and Todd Miller along with their player profiles. There will also be an audio presentation of interviews with players’ wives giving a comparison of the amateur and professional eras of rugby from a woman’s perspective; video clips of Mid Northern, Northland and All Black games and photos and articles giving a brief outline of Mid Northern rugby to the present day and All Black, Maori All Black and Northland players.
The exhibition will be on display at the Jack Morgan Museum, State Highway One, Hukerenui, from September 5 to October 31, 10am – 4pm.
The Jack Morgan Museum has been open a year and was established over a three year period with a huge financial input from the past and present Hukerenui community members, along with grants from ASB Community Trust, Oxford Trust, Lion Foundation, Pub Charities, Whangarei District Council. The community took Jack Morgan’s collection of stationary engines and local memorabilia turning it into a museum telling the story of pioneer women in agriculture in the Hukerenui district.
Police seize $48 million in crime assets
Cash and assets worth around $48 million have been seized under new legislation enabling Police to confiscate the proceeds of crime, Police Minister Judith Collins said today.
The Criminal Proceeds (Recovery) Act, which took effect in December 2009, enables Police to seized assets believed to be the proceeds of crime without first securing a criminal conviction.
“I am very pleased to report that the Police have been highly successful in investigating and seizing assets funded by criminal activity since this Government passed the legislation," Ms Collins said.
“Gangs are criminal businesses, motivated by profit. We have untied the hands of Police to go after their ill-gotten gains.
“Police are currently holding restraining orders over $40 million worth of assets and a further $8 million has now been forfeited to the Crown.
“This Government is serious about confiscating the profits of crime and putting gangs out of business. I am advised that this Act is having a substantial and rising impact on organised crime and drug offending."
The assets restrained under the Act include boats, motorbikes, luxury cars, four-wheel-drive vehicles, cash, bank accounts, lifestyle blocks and a large number of residential properties (see panel).
Police have now struck MOUs with other government agencies to enable the disclosure and sharing of information, so that the legislation can be used to the maximum extent. These include the Solicitor-General, the Official Assignee and Inland Revenue.
Assets seized to date:
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Art collection 1
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Boats 5
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Bonus Bonds 4
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Cars/vans/4-wheel drives 74
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Cash/bank accounts 91
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Commercial properties 5
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Farms/orchards 6
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Furniture and effects 3
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Jewellery incl. precious metals and gemstones 7
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Lifestyle blocks 10
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Motorcycles 30
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Plant and equipment 13
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Residential properties 42
TOTAL 291
Battle of Britain vets remembered
Veterans Affairs Minister Judith Collins today paid tribute to the New Zealand airmen who fought in the Battle of Britain, one of the crucial turning points of the Second World War.
Ms Collins joined veterans, His Excellency Lieutenant General, The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, GNZM, QSO, Governor-General of New Zealand, Government representatives, members of the NZ Defence Force and the wider Defence Community, and members of the Diplomatic Corps at the National War Memorial in Wellington to mark the 71st anniversary of the battle.
“In Britain’s most desperate hour, New Zealand and allied airmen took to the skies to repel the biggest and most sustained aerial bombing campaign to that date,” Ms Collins said.
“Relying on raw courage, their skill as aviators, and a determination to halt the German advance, our fighter pilots faced very short odds of survival every time they took on the enemy.
“Other Kiwis fulfilled vital roles bombing German ports and invasion craft, destroying infrastructure and supply lines so vital to the German war effort.”
The Battle of Britain was the aerial battle fought between the German Luftwaffe and the Allies in 1940, as the Germans attempted to invade Britain after successfully occupying most of Western Europe.
More than 130 New Zealanders served as part of the Royal Air Force Fighter Command, and many others served with the Bomber and Coastal Commands.
“Today is about paying tribute to all those who fought in the Battle of Britain. In particular, we must pay tribute to the 57 Kiwi airmen who did not return.
“We must not forget that the sacrifices made by all those who fought with the RAF helped ensure an Allied victory. They were indeed the few, owed so much by so many.”
Slowing of ETS recommended
The Government today released the Emissions Trading Scheme Review Panel’s report – Doing New Zealand’s Fair Share – that recommends the implementation of the scheme be slowed down.
“This is a good report on which to base future decisions on the ETS. Climate change policy comes down to a difficult choice between how much and how quickly we want to reduce emissions and how much households and businesses are prepared to pay. The report is consistent with the Government’s climate change policy goal of New Zealand doing its fair share on this global issue,” Minister for Climate Change Issues Nick Smith said.
“The current ETS legislation has the energy, transport and industrial sectors stepping up to a full obligation in 2013. The Report’s recommendation to slow this by phasing it in three steps in 2013, 2014 and 2015 would ease the price impact on households and businesses. The Report notes this slower timetable would not detract from investment in low-carbon technologies like renewable energy generation as they have quite long lead times.
“The recommendation to slow down the entry of agriculture by a more gradual introduction is also well considered. The Government does not support the introduction of agricultural emissions into the ETS before 2015. The Government also needs to consider the advice of the Agricultural ETS Advisory Committee on the practical implementation challenges. Agricultural emissions will only be included if practical technologies are available to enable farmers to reduce their emissions and more progress is made by our trading partners on measures to reduce emissions.
“It is significant the report and the bulk of the submissions to the review support most features of the ETS including the significant changes the Government made around allocations in 2009. These are working well, have broad support and enable industry to plan for the future with certainty.
“This report confirms the Government’s confidence in the ETS as the most effective way to reduce emissions at least cost. The scheme has seen a marked shift from deforestation to afforestation and from thermal to renewable electricity generation. Net emissions are down and New Zealand is on track to comfortably meet its Kyoto Protocol obligations.
“Climate change is a global issue in which the Government is calibrating New Zealand’s approach relative to our key trading partners. Australia is particularly significant given the extent that our economies are integrated. The Review Panel’s approach fits neatly with the Australian Government’s carbon pricing proposals introduced to its Parliament this week. While New Zealand has started earlier and more softly, the two schemes will be closely aligned in 2015. This review positions us well to advance the joint officials working group announced by both Prime Ministers towards linking the two schemes for the period beyond 2015.
“We are advancing the detailed work on the 61 recommendations. There are both upside and downside fiscal implications in different recommendations that will need to be considered. Changes to the scheme would require legislation and the Government will finalise its policy once the detailed work is complete.”
The Emissions Trading Scheme Review Report is available at
http://www.climatechange.govt.nz//emissions-trading-scheme/ets-review-2011/index.html
Sell-out for Whangarei match
Northland’s first Rugby World Cup 2011 Pool match today looks like being a sell-out.
Last night Rugby New Zealand 2011 Ltd expected the few remaining tickets to be sold.
With the sell-out, we want to avoid disappointed fans showing up at the stadium expecting gate sales, especially those who might travel to Whangarei from other parts of the region or Auckland.
“It’s a fantastic result for Northland and Rugby World Cup to achieve a sell-out match, especially outside of the main centres” says Rugby New Zealand 2011 General Manager Marketing and Communications, Shane Harmon.
Fans are reminded to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to the match, especially as there will be a number of road closures around the Northland Events Centre and you will only be able to walk up to the games.
The Pool A match between Canada v Tonga kicks-off at 5pm at the Northland Events Centre in Whangarei.
Travel information can be found on the Northland 2011 website:
http://northland2011.com/game_on/venues or the Whangarei District Council website: www.wdc.govt.nz
Auckland launches Wi-Fi world first
The world’s first fully integrated metropolitan Wi-Fi system, including free roaming Wi-Fi access across the central city and on public transport, has gone live in Auckland.
The city Wi-Fi network extends across all Link buses and some trains, with the announcement that Auckland Transport has joined the network with Auckland Council and Wi-Fi supplier Tomizone.
Internet on the Auckland Wi-Fi network, provided free to users due to sponsorship from Localist, has already seen strong support from Aucklanders and visitors with heavy usage in its first week of operation.
“This is a global blueprint for how a sustainable Wi-Fi network can benefit residents and visitors – even while travelling on public transport,” says Len Brown. “I’m encouraged by the number of people already using a network built by Aucklanders in under six weeks in time for Rugby World Cup.”
The Wi-Fi service is available on all new Link buses and selected trains. Over time, Aucklanders can expect to see the service expanding across the transport system and across the city.
“Being able to access the internet via this new Wi-Fi service means our customers and our visitors to the city can make more effective use of their commute time,” says Mark Lambert, Auckland Transport’s Public Transport Operations Manager.
“Auckland Transport will evaluate the success of the Wi-Fi service prior to making it more widely available across the public transport network,” says Mr Lambert.
“Auckland is now home to the best integrated Wi-Fi network across a city anywhere in the world and it’s something our team are very proud to have delivered in such a short time,” says Tomizone Executive Director Steve Simms.
Travel early for RWC 2011 kick-off
Traffic on Auckland’s motorway network will be heavy tomorrow (Friday, 9 September) leading up to the start of Rugby World Cup 2011and people should plan to travel early to reach their destinations safely and on time.
Tens of thousands of rugby fans will be on the move across the city heading to Eden Park for the official opening and the All Blacks’ game against Tonga, and to the central waterfront area for the tournament’s opening night party.
“We will do everything we can to keep the motorways flowing smoothly to help people have a good time on the city’s biggest night of the year,” says the NZTA’s State Highways Manager for Auckland and Northland, Tommy Parker. “Those fans going to the game or coming into Central Auckland should hop on a bus, train or ferry – using public transport reduces the risk of being caught in congestion or trying to find a place to park.”
Mr Parker says traffic will be heavy around the Auckland Harbour Bridge. The usual afternoon peak lane configuration across the bridge of five northbound lanes and three for those driving south has been suspended, and the NZTA will have four lanes open in both directions. The NZTA will also have tow trucks parked near the bridge to quickly clear any obstacle on this critical section of the network.
Mr Parker reminds drivers not to stop on the side of motorways, particularly during the fireworks display.
‘People need to find a spot early to watch the display. It is not only illegal to stop unless there is an emergency, but motorways are high speed environments and there is a risk of a crash particularly with the increased number of overseas drivers in the city unfamiliar with our conditions,” Mr Parker says.
Mr Parker says there could be a further chance of motorway congestion on Sunday afternoon (11 September) when Australia and Italy play at North Harbour Stadium in Albany.
“Motorways will be busy with not only rugby fans, but also with people heading towards the big shopping centre near the Stadium. If they do have to drive, leave early, but we would again encourage people to use public transport as the best option to get to and from the stadium for an enjoyable and safe Rugby World Cup 2011 afternoon,” Mr Parker says.
New TV recycling programme mooted
The first step in a new nationwide programme to encourage the recycling and safe disposal of unwanted televisions was announced by Environment Minister Nick Smith today.
“The falling price of new TVs, international sporting events and the national switchover to digital transmission from 2012 are all fuelling a change from older cathode ray tube sets to flat screen high definition LCD and plasma TVs,” Dr Smith said.
“The challenge is that there is an estimated 4,400 tonnes of lead in the 2.2 million cathode ray tube TVs that needs to be responsibly recycled or disposed of.
“The Government is asking businesses to come forward with innovative solutions on how we can expand the infrastructure for TV recycling and raise awareness of how to recycle and properly dispose of this electronic waste.
“The programme is called "TV Take Back" and will be funded from the Government's Waste Minimisation Fund. Proposals are being sought from businesses, particularly retailers, to provide a recycling service in parallel with the sale of new TVs.”
A new TV is not required to receive digital television when the phased digital switchover starts next year, but some Kiwis may look to replace their cathode ray tube sets and it’s important they know how and where to dispose of them safely.
“TV Take Back is part of a wider Government plan to put in place a more enduring solution for e-waste. We have also provided $1.4 million to RCN and the Community Recycling Network to establish a network of 35 permanent e-waste depots to recycle televisions and computers. The TV Take Back programme is to complement this work with a focus on clearing the old stock of TVs.
“Further work is also being done with industry to explore product stewardship for electronic goods,” Dr Smith said.
Expressions of Interest for the TV Take Back programme are now being received and will close on 21 October 2011. Further information can be found on the GETS website
www.gets.govt.nz
Maori rugby celebrated
A new exhibition opening at Auckland Museum on Friday, September 9, illustrates the contribution Maori players have made to this country's national game and to the sport around the world.
Maori rugby player Tom Ellison, who features in the exhibition Ake Ake Kia Kaha - the Spirit of Maori Rugby, captained New Zealand's first official rugby team, authored one of the first texts on rugby The Art of Rugby Football and proposed a uniform of a black jersey with a silver fern.
The exhibition takes its name from the 1904 Britain v. New Zealand rugby tour badge featured in the exhibition which was emblazoned with the words Ake, Ake, Ake, Kia! Kaha!
Ake, Ake, Kia, Kaha which translates as “forever and ever be strong” was also the haka performed by the New Zealand “Natives” team on their endurance-testing 14-month tour which began in 1888 and saw them play in Australia, Egypt and the British Isles.
Ake Ake Kia Kaha – the Spirit of Maori Rugby is centred around a film featuring personal interviews with Maori players from teams spanning the last five decades, from All Black Hosea Gear, who missed out on selection for the RWC side, to Buck Shelford, Tane Norton and Muru Walters.
The film explores the mana of playing for the NZ Maori side, the lure of the game, and the international tours and matches that had a lasting impact on the players.
Former All Black captain Buck Shelford says watching the Going brothers play for the New Zealand Maori made a huge impression on him.
“As a young guy growing up and seeing the Going brothers in action with their triple-scissors move – seeing that inventiveness and watching a side that backed themselves to be the best they could be – that’s what made me want to play rugby.”
In his own rugby career Shelford says being able to bring the spirit and the innovation of the New Zealand Maori team to all his games has been a massive asset.
“We played with pride and we were able to carry that wairua through to all our games.”
“It was a huge highlight to play for New Zealand and to captain the All Black side but it was a privilege to play as a Maori and to play alongside those great Maori players.”
“In Maori rugby they have never been afraid to try new things. That’s why you saw that flair, that skill coming through. We backed ourselves.”
Shelford says that spirit was rife in the side that won the first Rugby World Cup, and featured Māori players Zinzan Brooke, Frano Botica, Steve McDowell and Mark Brooke-Cowden.
“In 1987 we had that spirit, we weren’t scared and we’re seeing that now in this All Blacks side – we’re not afraid to kick when we want to kick, run when we want to run and attack inside our own 22.”
The exhibition also features the Prince of Wales Cup presented to the Maori side after impressive play during a tour of Australia, Ceylon, France, Canada and Great Britain in 1927.
It was during this same tour the French were said to have adopted the Maori style of game play.
“People know there have been a lot of great Maori players in All Black sides over the years but I’m not sure they realise how much of our national game – the way it looks and the way it’s played – was shaped by Maori,” says exhibition developer Rachael Davies.
“In fact the international games we’re about to see over the next couple of months still retain those influences.”
Other objects on display include a souvenir tour ball signed by George Nepia, game badges and Hosea Gear’s Te Ao Hou “The New Dawn” centenary jumper from 2010, celebrating 100 years of Maori rugby.
The Te Ao Hou centenary jumper was designed by Maori artist Dave Burke who was also commissioned to design the artwork in Auckland Museum’s Ake Ake Kia Kaha exhibition.
Ake Ake Kia Kaha - the Spirit of Maori Rugby will run until March 2012.
DOC cuts hit regions
New details from the Department of Conservation (DOC) on job cuts first announced in July show punitive government budget cuts are squeezing DOC out of the regions, according to the Public Service Association.
Earlier today, DOC released a report that will see 96 jobs cut across the country; a move the PSA says will reduce the department’s ability to deliver on the conservation New Zealanders want and need.
“PSA members at DOC believe these changes will undermine the Department’s effectiveness rather than enhance it. Despite DOC following a model of conservation that closely involves and depends on communities, the changes in this review shift support services away from many communities," says PSA National Secretary Brenda Pilott.
“The bulk of the jobs will go from four regional centres: Northland; Tongariro/Whanganui/Taranaki; Nelson/Marlborough, and Southland. Smaller centres need more jobs not less."
The cuts are part of a 2009 budget cut which saw $54 million over four years slashed from the Department. More job losses are tipped for next year from the Department's conservancy and area offices. Like other government departments, DOC will also have to find the cost of employer contributions to KiwiSaver and the State Sector Retirement Saving Scheme.
“Ultimately, it’s the New Zealand public that loses out from these on-going cuts. Government departments cannot keep doing more with less. Like any other business there comes a time when they can only do less with less,” says Brenda Pilott.
“The PSA recognises that DOC is under significant budget pressures from a Government that does not value public services. Both staff and management are going to great lengths to work with what’s available, but this review appears to cut dangerously deep into DOC’s resources.
“Some of the proposed job cuts include technical staff who provide advice and support within their communities about the protection of places and species that New Zealanders value.
“DOC and other public service departments need to find efficiencies through different means other than the crudest one of cutting jobs. Our members at DOC recommended other ways to save money like: halt the Gallup employee engagement poll which costs over $60,000 each year, reduce travel and make more use of video conferencing technology, reduce the number of temporary or fixed-term employees before making permanent staff redundant, undertake an audit of building rents and locations, and finally, ask staff what else can be done.
“Getting rid of people who perform the roles that ensure services are delivered to communities should always be a last resort. The PSA will continue to push DOC to look for efficiencies in other areas before throwing its most valuable resource – its staff – onto the dole queue,” says Brenda Pilott.
Research on national identity
A nationwide survey of Year 12 students launched this week by a team of researchers at Massey University hopes to significantly advance NZ's understanding of national identity.
Veronica Tawhai, policy lecturer at Te Pūtahi a Toi, School of Māori Studies at Massey University and a member of the research team, says it is often assumed that people connect with being a ‘New Zealander’ and have a common understanding of what that means.
“In reality, people’s sense of national identity can be complex and influenced by many things, including ethnicity and culture, school, family and friends, and media and technology," Ms Tawhai says.
New Zealand is an increasingly diverse and mobile society, with one in five people in New Zealand being overseas-born. The increase in te reo Māori medium schools, including bilingual, immersion classes and wharekura, is also expected to have a significant impact on students’ sense of identity.
“This survey hopes to provide a powerful snapshot into our sense of national identity and the experiences that shape this, for both Māori, Pākehā, those born locally and those born overseas”.
The survey also investigates Year 12 students’ understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi, why there are Treaty settlements, Māori seats in parliament, and te reo Māori television and radio. “These form part of the unique identity of our country, and yet are also some of the most contentious issues nationally” says Ms Tawhai.
“This research will give us some indication of how prepared young citizens are to engage in and contribute to these debates throughout their adult life”.
The survey is offered online and will run for the month of September. Students who participate can go into a draw to win an iPod Touch, and $1000 professional development funds for their school. A letter sent to all schools inviting them to participate has the details on how to access the survey.
“The results of the survey will be provided to schools, but also to government departments such as the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Education, Health, and Te Puni Kokiri Ministry for Māori Development, to assist their efforts to support the positive development of our young people and their identity” concluded Ms Tawhai.
Give way rule changes in 2012
Transport Minister Steven Joyce has signed a Rule that will change the give way rules at intersections from March 2012.
He says the changes will help reduce confusion on our roads by removing some of the demands the current rules place on drivers’ decision-making at intersections.
“A high profile education campaign will be carried out closer to the time to ensure drivers are aware of the new requirements and when they begin.”
Currently if you are turning left you have to give way to right turning traffic coming towards you. This will change so the right turning vehicle will have to give way.
Changes are also planned for those making right-hand turns at uncontrolled T-intersections. Currently, the right-turning vehicle on the continuing road has to give way to a right-turning vehicle on the terminating road. The change will reverse that to give priority to traffic on the continuing road.
Mr Joyce says the give way rules changes are part of the government’s Safer Journeys road safety strategy and will reduce relevant intersection crashes by an estimated seven percent.
“The changes will also help improve the safety of cyclists and pedestrians, groups often at risk in intersection crashes.”
The give way rule changes are included in the Land Transport (Road User) Amendment Rule 2011.
Other changes in the amendment Rule clarify and improve existing road rules. These include allowing riders of motorcycles, mopeds and cycles to proceed on a white ‘B’ (bus) signal in a bus lane as well as allowing for school bus signs that incorporate flashing lights, to alert other motorists that school children are nearby and to drive carefully. The latter measures will come into force on 1 October this year.
Consultation on the Land Transport (Road User) Amendment Rule 2011 was held from 14 May to 24 June 2011. The majority of submissions received were supportive of changes to the give way rules.
More information on the Land Transport (Road User) Amendment Rule 2011 is available on the NZ Transport Agency website at:
www.nzta.govt.nz
Motorcycle licensing changes
The government has confirmed a series of Rule changes that will improve the licensing and safety of motorcycle riders.
Transport Minister Steven Joyce says the changes will strengthen assessments and testing to ensure novice motorcyclists are better prepared to drive safely on the road.
"Motorcyclists are 20 times more at risk of being involved in a fatal or serious injury crash than car drivers per kilometre driven. With more new motorcyclists every day, these steps are vital to keep riders safe on the road."
Since declining in the late 1990s, motorcycle-related deaths have increased by around 80 percent since 2003. This has coincided with a 68 percent increase in the number of motorcycles in New Zealand.
The Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Amendment Rule 2011 contains a number of actions to improve the safety of motorcyclists, which will come into force in October this year or October 2012. These actions include:
· Introducing a power-to-weight restriction for novice motorcycle riders. This replaces the current cc limit for novices, which is no longer adequate for the range of high-powered, but low cc, motorcycles on the market.
Removing the 70km/h speed limit restriction for learner motorcycle licence holders. There is little evidence this provides any safety benefit, and removing it will allow novices to gain open road experience.
Introducing a competency-based training and assessment option for novice motorcyclists and remove the option for motorcyclists to complete an approved driving course (such as Defensive Driving or Street Talk) to reduce their time on a restricted motorcycle licence. These courses are generally car driver focused.
· Requiring all novice motorcyclists, regardless of age, to be subject to the same minimum time requirements at the restricted licence stage. Currently, over 25 year olds have a shorter time requirement on the restricted licence before they may progress to a full licence.
“The government’s Safer Journeys road safety strategy identified motorcycle safety as a priority area where New Zealand could do better,” says Mr Joyce.
“These measures will help motorcyclists start their riding careers safely, while other work such as improvements to our roads will help create a safer riding environment.”
“Safety initiatives led by and for motorcyclists are also being developed by MOTO, the Motorcycle Safety Council. This group is funded by the motorcycle safety levy.”
A proposal to introduce a moped-specific licence has not been progressed as part of this Rule.
“Moped licences would require major change and they don’t yet appear to offer the significant safety benefits of these other proposals. This measure will be delayed so that the NZ Transport Agency can prioritise the other actions in this package,” says Mr Joyce.
In addition to changes for motorcyclists, the amendment Rule makes a change to allow novice car drivers to take approved courses in the learner licence stage. Currently they may only take these courses when on a restricted licence.
A full list of provisions in the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Amendment Rule 2011, as well as more information on changes to motorcycle licensing, is available on the NZ Transport Agency website at:
www.nzta.govt.nz
First World War centenary plans
Government will mark the centenary of the First World War beginning in 2014 with significant international and domestic projects and ceremonies, Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Christopher Finlayson announced today.
“The First World War was one of the most significant events of the 20th Century and had a deep impact on New Zealand society,” Mr Finlayson said. “Ten per cent of our population of one million at that time served overseas, of which 18,000 died and 40,000 were wounded. This profoundly affected nearly every New Zealand family.”
“It is only fitting therefore that the government has agreed to support a number of activities, including some large scale legacy projects with funding of up to $15 million.”
Among the projects are the completion of the National War Memorial Park; a broad range of historical publications; a family history research database; an updated guide to the Western Front, and a heritage trail at places where New Zealanders served during the First World War, such as Gallipoli and along the Western Front.
A panel of eminent New Zealanders will be established to act as ambassadors, coordinate activities with equivalent groups in Australia and provide advice to government on the centenary commemorations.
“The growing attendance at Anzac Day ceremonies here, and the steady increase in the number of visitors to the battlefields in Europe demonstrate there is a strong interest from New Zealanders, especially young people, in the involvement of their families in the war,” Mr Finlayson said.
During the four-year centenary period (2014 – 2018) the focus of activity will be on Anzac Day 2015 and the centenary of the Armistice on 11 November 2018.
However, other anniversaries such as the battles of the Somme, Passchendaele, Messines and Le Quesnoy in Europe and the Sinai and Palestine campaigns in the Middle East will be marked.
“The centenary provides an opportunity to increase our understanding of how the war contributed to New Zealand’s emerging sense of itself as an independent nation and to highlight our long history of commitment to global security,” Mr Finlayson said. “It also fostered the development of the unique Anzac relationship which endures to this day.”
In June this year Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard announced AU$5 million for an Australian Memorial in Wellington’s memorial park, to be completed by 2015.
