A man has died in hospital following an alleged daylight assault at a bus stop in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe Counties Manukau CIB Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward said the man was initially found at a Great South Rd stop about 2.15pm on April 27 “The man was unconscious with a serious head injury and was later transferred to intensive care at Auckland City Hospital,” he said Police are investigating how the man was injured A 34-year-old man has since been arrested and charged with assault and was due to appear in the Manukau District Court today Hayward said further charges may be laid in due course but police couldn’t provide further comment because the matter was before the court “What I can say is that police are not treating this as a random event and we are aware both men have previously interacted with each other,” he said this incident has resulted in a tragic outcome with the loss of a life.” Hayward said police couldn’t release the victim’s name at this stage “We are ensuring there is support available for the family at this difficult time.” This is the second death at an Auckland bus stop in April after Kyle Whorall was attacked at a bus stop in Meadowbank on April 19. Police say two occupants of an erratically driven vehicle attacked Whorrall, 33, while he was sitting alone at the bus stop that night. Whorrall was struck with a “long” weapon around 10pm, suffering multiple head injuries, and later died in hospital. A quad bike crash in rural South Canterbury has left one person dead. Manukau CityBy negotiation322Welcome to this 3-bedroom 2 bathroom haven!This property offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort located within walking distance to Middlemore Hospital Imagine being just a 5 to 10 minute drive away from Papatoetoe town center and Manukau Westfield this home is designed to elevate your lifestyle and provide you with the comfort and space you deserve Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to secure your ideal home sweet home Contact us today to schedule a viewing and make this property yours before it's gone See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Eke Panuku – Auckland Council's development arm – is carrying out the redevelopment of the South Auckland suburb, which aims to bring new life to the area. Local Democracy Reporting recently visited the area, after reporting on the changes in October 2024. Vi Hausia, Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board deputy chairman and local resident, said he is excited about the project being almost complete. "Exciting changes are underway in Old Papatoetoe. This is something we’ve worked towards for years, and now we’re only months away from enjoying the new facilities and open spaces." Although locals have told LDR they welcome the changes, it has brought some disruption to the streets too. Ōtara Papatoetoe local board chairman Apulu Reece Autagavaia spoke about a new road extension being created to Cambridge Tce. "There'll be a new road there, directly linking up to the car park where New World is, and a proper road will come. At the moment, it's just car-park grade, but a proper street will be created to link into Wallace Rd." Of the new housing developments, Apulu says Auckland had not grown upwards for a long time. "It's grown outwards, urban sprawl. And so, a lot of people are used to living on quarter acre or a bit smaller than that, but [in] single-level residential housing." But the council needed to build up as the city was bursting at the seams, he says. The city's rapid population growth overwhelmed the Auckland Council's infrastructure, with more people living further away requiring additional pipes, waste, and sewage systems – all of which cost money, he says. “But ... if we can build upwards, that means more people can live closer and near the city and closer to our public transport routes. "So, Unlocked Papatoetoe is right on the train track routes, [with] Papatoetoe train station there. And so, it is a prime place to encourage more intensification." Intensification will bring some challenges, but it will also bring many positives, he says. "There's going to be bad things that come with intensification, but there's going to be a lot of positives." Learn more about what's coming to Old Papatoetoe and when to expect it: Located next to the Papatoetoe Chambers building, the upgraded laneway runs from and includes the Civic Plaza on St George St, through to the Wallace Rd car park and Piko Toetoe development. The project is mostly complete and open to the public, with final touches underway, including the painting of a new mana whenua-designed mural and final planting planned for autumn. The Cambridge Tce extension is under construction and is expected to be completed by mid-2025. This project will connect Cambridge Tce to Stadium Ln and Wallace Rd, improving access for vehicles and pedestrians to the Allan Brewster Leisure Centre and Stadium Reserve. The plans include wider footpaths, safe crossing points, a separated cycle lane, and a low-speed street design, all aimed at improving access and encouraging increased use of Stadium Reserve. Construction on the Stadium Reserve upgrade began in February and is expected to be completed later this year. This project will bring a new park to Papatoetoe, featuring a playground, expanded green spaces, and a dedicated kick-a-ball area. Alongside these public projects, private developments are adding more homes to the area, particularly with the Piko Toetoe development on Tavern Ln. The project will feature a mix of two, three and four-bedroom terraced houses, along with a pathway connecting the main street and Stadium Reserve. Construction is expected to take approximately 17 months, with public laneways set to open by mid-2026. LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air. Old Papatoetoe’s makeover is taking shape with new homes, green spaces and a new laneway under development. The upgraded laneway is now more open, greener and welcoming. (Source: Auckland Council) Bystanders prevent attempted abduction of Auckland primary student Police said they were investigating the incident which occurred outside Rowandale School in the suburb of Manurewa at around 3pm on Monday Crime and Justice Homicide investigation after man dies in Auckland's Manurewa Emergency services were called to the property on Mahia Rd just before 10am to a report of a man "seriously injured" Blaze at McDonald's in east Auckland treated as suspected arson Counties Manukau CIB Detective Senior Sergeant Michele Gillespie said a scene guard has been in place at the restaurant overnight Person dies following morning crash on Auckland motorway A person has died following a crash on Auckland's south-western motorway this morning New Zealand 'Wake up call': Businesses warned over lithium battery fires Authorities urge the public to avoid putting lithium batteries in the rubbish or recycling but have also told merchants to "take responsibility for disposal" Explosions heard in 'suspicious' blaze at east Auckland McDonald's Pakuranga Rd was closed in both directions and buildings were being evacuated around the immediate area as a precaution Film industry anxiously awaits details on Trump's 100% movie tariff 38 mins ago Search underway for Masterton man, 74, missing since Sunday 48 mins ago Crooks, culture first order of business for Mike Bush in Victoria 50 mins ago Charges filed against Woolworths over pricing, misleading specials 6:45pm Police, experts warn 'emerging risk' of 3D-printed firearms rising 6:33pm Trade war: Sir John Key's 'optimism' on Trump's next tariff moves 27 mins ago 1US woman who disappeared for more than six decades found safe Sole survivor of poisoned beef Wellington takes the stand Govt halts all current pay equity claims, makes it harder to lodge new ones Two men's shared name brings years of trouble and a hefty bill to one Kiwi motorcyclist killed in 11-bike British Supersport crash Photos: Lorde among stars at 2025 Met Gala A$AP Rocky and Rihanna also revealed they are expecting their third child. Two arrested over alleged plot targeting Lady Gaga concert in RioBrazilian police said they thwarted an alleged bomb attack planned for Lady Gaga's concert on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro. Lady Gaga rocks Copacabana Beach with free concert for over 2 million fansSun, May 4 Lorde announces new album name, dateThu, May 1 Kim Kardashian to testify in Paris trial over 2016 armed robberyMon, Apr 28 Chubby Checker, Outkast, Cyndi Lauper join Rock & Roll Hall of FameMon, Apr 28 Kim Kardashian to testify in Paris trial over 2016 armed robberyMon Old Papatoetoe’s makeover is taking shape with new homes green spaces and a new laneway under development Eke Panuku – Auckland Council's development arm – is carrying out the redevelopment of the South Auckland suburb Local Democracy Reporting recently visited the area after reporting on the changes in October 2024 Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board deputy chairman and local resident said he is excited about the project being almost complete "Exciting changes are underway in Old Papatoetoe This is something we’ve worked towards for years and now we’re only months away from enjoying the new facilities and open spaces." Although locals have told LDR they welcome the changes it has brought some disruption to the streets too Ōtara Papatoetoe local board chairman Apulu Reece Autagavaia spoke about a new road extension being created to Cambridge Tce directly linking up to the car park where New World is but a proper street will be created to link into Wallace Rd." Apulu says Auckland had not grown upwards for a long time a lot of people are used to living on quarter acre or a bit smaller than that but [in] single-level residential housing." But the council needed to build up as the city was bursting at the seams The city's rapid population growth overwhelmed the Auckland Council's infrastructure with more people living further away requiring additional pipes and sewage systems – all of which cost money that means more people can live closer and near the city and closer to our public transport routes Unlocked Papatoetoe is right on the train track routes it is a prime place to encourage more intensification." Intensification will bring some challenges "There's going to be bad things that come with intensification but there's going to be a lot of positives." Located next to the Papatoetoe Chambers building the upgraded laneway runs from and includes the Civic Plaza on St George St through to the Wallace Rd car park and Piko Toetoe development The project is mostly complete and open to the public including the painting of a new mana whenua-designed mural and final planting planned for autumn The Cambridge Tce extension is under construction and is expected to be completed by mid-2025 This project will connect Cambridge Tce to Stadium Ln and Wallace Rd improving access for vehicles and pedestrians to the Allan Brewster Leisure Centre and Stadium Reserve all aimed at improving access and encouraging increased use of Stadium Reserve Construction on the Stadium Reserve upgrade began in February and is expected to be completed later this year This project will bring a new park to Papatoetoe private developments are adding more homes to the area particularly with the Piko Toetoe development on Tavern Ln along with a pathway connecting the main street and Stadium Reserve Construction is expected to take approximately 17 months with public laneways set to open by mid-2026 LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air A stranger allegedly tried to force an 8-year-old boy into a car outside an Auckland primary school yesterday before bystanders intervened and the man drove off Police confirmed they were investigating an incident from around 3pm on Monday outside Rowandale School in the suburb of Manurewa "Police are still working to understand exactly what was occurring at the time and our enquiries are ongoing," a spokesperson said "We have spoken with the boy and will continue to work through a careful process Rowandale School principal Karl Vasau said in a statement to social media that other parents had intervened "The student then made his way home and told his parents who then came into school to let us know and then they rung the police." Vasau told 1News the pupil was "doing fine" following the incident and was surrounded by a "supportive "Our student is safe now and his family are thankful that nothing further happened to their boy but are wanting us all to be aware and stay safe It's about working with that child to make them feel safe again but also looking forward to returning back to school with a little bit of normality." Police had reacted "pretty quickly" to the reports "They've been in this morning to touch base and connect the community police constables are going to come back to tomorrow to address the whole school in relation to what had happened and around keeping themselves safe before and after school." Increased police patrols would remain in the area after school from Wednesday Anyone with relevant information should contact police on 105 Police say a fire at a McDonald's restaurant in Pakuranga is being investigated as a suspected arson Emergency services attended the fire on Pakuranga Rd just before 3pm yesterday Large plumes of smoke could be seen and explosions heard at the fast food restaurant which has "sustained significant fire damage as a result" "At this point in time we are treating this fire as a suspected arson "A scene examination is being conducted this morning and police will work alongside a fire investigator," she said Gillespie said part of these inquiries would be working to understand how the fire began She said police would like to hear from anyone who saw suspicious activity prior to the fire Anyone with information was urged to contact police online or anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 A person has died following a crash on Auckland's south-western motorway this morning The single vehicle crash was reported to police shortly before 5am the sole occupant of this vehicle died at the scene," a police spokesperson said "Earlier closures of northbound lanes have now lifted and police advise motorists to continue to expect delays as earlier backlogs clear "We appreciate motorists' understanding this morning while emergency services carried out their work." Police said the serious crash unit examined the scene this morning and an investigation was underway into this morning's crash on behalf of the Coroner This is in addition to an earlier crash on Auckland's northern motorway near the Auckland Harbour Bridge Emergency services responded to a two-truck collision on the northern motorway near the Auckland Harbour Bridge shortly after 5am New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said all lanes south on State Highway 1 were open again following this earlier crash with five lanes available on the Harbour Bridge "Allow extra time for delays on the Northern Motorway to slowly ease this morning three lanes going south were now open again between Onewa Rd and the Harbour Bridge," NZTA said A string of fires linked to highly combustible lithium-ion batteries has been deemed a "wake-up call" for waste businesses by Auckland officials with the public facing exposure to toxic smoke from repeat blazes Auckland Council is urging "industry vigilance" around the problem after a scrap metal company was fined $30,000 over a 2023 fire that released toxic smoke near Ōtāhuhu A fire at a recycling plant near Glenfield last month was also initially linked to lithium batteries although investigators were continuing to probe the blaze Auckland Council compliance field operations manager David Pawson emphasised "the importance of remaining vigilant despite the novelty of the issue" Authorities urged the public to avoid putting lithium batteries in the rubbish or recycling The batteries were inside most portable electronic devices Pawson said in a statement: "We recognise this is a new issue and we’re all finding our way with lithium-ion batteries and those handling them "But businesses still need to take responsibility for their disposal — this is their business Emergency alerts were issued to tens of thousands on Auckland's North Shore last month after the largest fire "for a few years" broke out at an Abilities Group recycling plant Residents were urged to close windows to avoid fumes and some beaches were closed due to chemicals released into waterways Takapuna fire station officer Steven Callagher said there were reports that flames broke out in the area of the facility where batteries were recycled and an official cause had not been determined Other recent battery-linked fires have broken out in rubbish trucks in Auckland caused by the ignition of a lithium-ion battery within a large scrap metal stockpile highlighted a "growing national and international issue surrounding battery disposal and fire risk," according to Auckland Council recognised the unique challenges posed by lithium-ion batteries He noted: "There has been considerable difficulty in finding a technical solution to the problems with batteries catching on fire "This is not only a national problem but an international one; these orders form a workaround solution until more technical solutions The judge described the situation as “a new and emerging issue" While acknowledging Sims Metal’s cooperation and the absence of intentional wrongdoing reduced from an initial starting point of $50,000 The enforcement orders issued require Sims Metal to implement several improvements at the James Fletcher Drive site in Favona "The orders are registered with the Environment Court and will remain in place unless superseded by conditions with a new resource consent," the council said Pawson said the council viewed the 2023 case as an "important precedent in balancing empathy for emerging challenges with the necessity of regulatory compliance "It also highlights the importance of proactive risk management and industry-wide collaboration to adapt to evolving environmental risks." A Sims Metal spokesperson said: "Following the May 2023 fire at our Favona facility we have implemented more stringent control measures to support the ongoing management of potentially concealed materials like lithium-ion batteries "We are grateful to the communities and businesses in and around Ōtāhuhu We want to reiterate our appreciation to FENZ and all those who acted diligently to extinguish the May 2023 fire safely and continue to refine and improve our processes." A large fire which caused "significant damage" to a McDonald's restaurant in east Auckland this afternoon is now being treated as suspicious Emergency services were notified of the fire at around 3pm on Monday Fire and Emergency NZ said the building was "totally involved" in flames by the time crews arrived and Papatoetoe were in attendance at the blaze "Everyone was out at the time and there are no reports of injuries." FENZ said the fire was being treated as suspicious "A fire investigator is attending to determine cause and origin." Pakuranga Rd was closed for nearly two hours in both directions with road users advised to avoid the area "Investigations into the cause of the fire at the McDonalds are underway," police said told 1News he heard a couple of explosions coming from the restaurant as the blaze began He said he heard "one or two" explosions The restaurant was adjacent to a Z petrol station and 250 metres along the same road from Pakuranga College A staff member at the service station said they had closed their fuel pumps and there was "huge fire and huge smoke" coming from the fire The Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre Courts were also closed this evening due to the blaze Auckland Transport said several bus routes Pakuranga MP Simeon Brown thanked emergency services who had been responding to the incident "Please follow the advice of emergency services A McDonald's spokesperson said the McDonald's restaurant in Pakuranga had "suffered significant damage" in the fire "Procedures were followed to raise the alarm and safely evacuate staff and customers McDonald’s is assisting emergency services as they begin the investigation into the cause of the fire." A search and rescue operation is underway for a Masterton man in his 70s missing since Sunday John Rafferty was last seen at Masterton Railway Station about midday on May 4 The 74-year-old did not board a train and left on foot about 20 minutes later Matheson said it was possible Rafferty was staying with a friend but police and loved ones "want to know he’s safe" and John doesn’t have his cell phone or wallet," he said A search team and a helicopter has been out looking for the missing man "We are really keen to know that he’s safe." Police have released an image from CCTV showing Rafferty on a station platform on the day of his disappearance He was wearing a blue jacket with 'NASA' written on the back Anyone who saw him was asked to contact police on 111 or online at 105 if there was Information after the fact The next top cop of the troubled Victoria police force embraces his "outsider" status to curb its leadership malaise and has a stern warning for crooks Former New Zealand Police commissioner Mike Bush won the race to become Victoria's chief commissioner after months of top-level staffing woes The 40-year police veteran steps into the role on June 27 with a five-year contract The Kiwi conceded the job will be no picnic with Victoria's crime rate hitting an almost decade-high in 2024 everyone knows that," he told reporters today "These crime issues are actually global they are quite similar wherever you go but it's not good enough just to turn up after the act Rising youth crime and high-profile cases of alleged offenders committing crimes while on bail spurred the Victorian government to strengthen laws in March Bush said he was familiar with the crackdown but bail laws were just one part of the solution to tackling youth crime along with a "prevention mindset" He retired from the NZ police force in 2020 after joining in 1978 and spending his final six years in the top job Whakaari/White Island volcano eruption and Covid-19 pandemic were among the biggest crises Bush confronted during his tenure Bush also made headlines in 2022 after it emerged he had a past drink-driving conviction when unsuccessfully applying to become head of the UK's Metropolitan Police Former New Zealand police minister Stuart Nash describedr Bush as hard but fair He said Bush regularly met with police forces across the Tasman in his previous role and recalled travelling with him to every district across New Zealand once a year to chew the fat with communities and then we all had biscuits and a cup of tea," Nash told AAP "Mike is someone who had deep credibility in policing." The state government has not handed the reins of Victoria Police to an outsider since former NSW Police assistant commissioner Christine Nixon in 2001 The Kiwi was happy to wear the "outsider" tag and is already hatching plans to hit the ground running "I've got a lot to do to come up to speed," Bush said "Culture is a consequence of leadership." establishing relationships with community groups amid rising tensions and increasing police visibility on the beat were among his other top initial priorities Victoria Police was thrust into leadership turmoil in February with a no-confidence vote from officers costing chief commissioner Shane Patton his job Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent became acting chief and expressed an interest in making the move permanent before throwing in the towel in April Deputy Commissioner Robert Hill will serve in an acting capacity until Bush takes over Bush intends to speak with Patton before starting and said he wouldn't shy away from pushing back if he disagreed with the government Premier Jacinta Allan said a recruitment agency was hired and instructed to find a leader capable of addressing the "challenges" plaguing the force "Mike Bush is the best person for the job," she said whose union led the no-confidence vote against Patton following a bitter pay dispute admitted there was a disconnect between members and leaders The state police union secretary welcomed Mr Bush's appointment and pledge to listen to the mounting workforce concerns "We have a police force that is currently under-resourced that needs fresh officers," he said The Commerce Commission has filed criminal charges against Woolworths NZ for alleged inaccurate pricing and misleading specials that may have breached the Fair Trading Act The commission filed the charges against Woolworths in the Auckland District Court It indicated in December last year that it would be filing separate criminal charges against Woolworths and two Pak'nSave supermarkets the commission said there were ongoing issues with pricing in the supermarket sector and the operators may have breached the Fair Trading Act deputy chair Anne Callinan said operators should know what the expectations were "Supermarkets have long been on notice about the importance of accurate and clear pricing and specials and we're not satisfied with the continuing issues we're seeing across the industry "Pricing accuracy is a consumer right and an expectation of a competitive market well-resourced businesses that should invest the time and effort to get pricing and promotions right." She said the charges were filed to remind all supermarkets that they are expected to fix the pricing accuracy issues and implement better processes In a statement when the charges were announced Woolworths managing director Spencer Sonn said it was important customers could trust prices advertised at their supermarkets Woolworths said it has cooperated with the Commerce Commission's pricing investigation for some time rnz.co.nz Former prime minister Sir John Key says he remains optimistic about Donald Trump's domestic economic policy despite opposing the tariff strategy that has sent global markets into turmoil in recent months who served as prime minister for eight years was the keynote speaker at an Auckland business summit earlier today Sir John told 1News he believed Trump would ultimately take a more moderate approach to tariffs than initially proposed "I'm not a fan of tariff policies I don't think they really work," he said as I think the stock market is telling you at the moment that actually there will be a more sensible landing place for the tariffs that he's wanting to impose." Sir John said he "wasn't entirely surprised" at Trump's call to go ahead with the policy "They're just a negotiating point I think he simply put on widespread and high rates of tariffs on every country to give himself a leverage point and a negotiating point "What I think he actually grossly underestimated was the stock market reaction You can actually make the case that his own strategy hasn't worked The reason the markets have recovered is because he's taken those tariffs off the most part 'I'm going to negotiate case by case'." Sir John suggested Trump's economic policies could still generally be positive for the US but the tariffs could be trickier for the global economy Asked whether he stood by his October comments that Trump would be good for the economy he said: "Do I think he's going to reduce regulatory burden in the United States It depends on where things shake down in terms of tariffs." Sir John acknowledged that for certain industries Trump's policies could be "a really negative thing" particularly if the president's proposed 100% tariff on the film industry were to be implemented "I can't see how it would be cost-competitive to make a movie in New Zealand with a 100% tariff on it," he said noting that films such as The Hobbit would not have been made in New Zealand without government subsidies who now served as a director of US tech company Palo Alto Networks said he had "always been opposed" to Trump's tariff policies but believes they won't be the "dominant part of his economic solutions" "I don't think it's perfect from New Zealand's point of view but I don't think we should panic either and America will still be a very big market for us to sell things to," he said "There are growing markets around the world It's not a great thing from New Zealand's point of view We've got a very sound economy with lots of options in front of us." Sir John suggested a belief that the Republican Trump was was better "on balance" for the US economy than Democratic opponent Kamala Harris he expressed concerns about Trump's tariff approach: "China doesn't pay those tariffs middle-income consumers or consumers in America do because when a tariff goes on a good that you bring into a country He added: "I don't agree with the massive tariffs and I don't think you'll follow through with all of that and I certainly don't agree with this view on trade." Audrey Backeberg disappeared from a small city in south-central Wisconsin after reportedly hitchhiking with her family’s babysitter and catching a bus to Indianapolis Nobody ever knew where she went or what happened to her All that changed last week when she was found alive and safe in another state thanks to the fresh eyes from a deputy who took over the case in February Detective Isaac Hanson discovered an out-of-state arrest record that matched Backeberg which triggered a series of investigative moves that led to finding her alive and safe in another state Turns out Backeberg chose to leave the town of Reedsburg on her own accord – likely due to an abusive husband safe and secure; And just kind of lived under the radar for that long,” he said Hanson was assigned the case in late February and he and other officials met with Backeberg’s family to see if they had a connection with that region They also started digging through Backeberg's sister's Ancestry.com account obituaries and marriage licenses from that region they found an address where a woman was living that Hanson said shared a lot of similarities with Backeberg including date of birth and social security number Hanson was able to get a deputy from that jurisdiction to go to the address "I was expecting the deputy to call me back and say ‘Oh nobody answered the door.’ And I thought it was the deputy calling me I could sense that she obviously had her reasons for leaving.” Most of the information he learned during that call he declined to share saying that it was still important to Backeberg that she not be found “I think it overwhelmed her of course with the emotions that she had having a deputy show up at her house and then kind of call her out and talk with her about what happened and kind of relive 62 years in 45 minutes,” he said Hanson described discovering her safe after more than six decades practically unheard of And while he doesn't know what will happen next in terms of her family reconnecting he said he was happy that she can reach out if she wants to so she has my contact number if she ever wants to reach out or needs anything any phone numbers of family members back here," he said "Ultimately she kind of holds the cards for that.” The government is making it harder to make a claim for pay equity that will cut costs There have been massive pay equity claims in recent years for nurses and resthome workers Workplace Minister Brooke van Velden announced the moves to raise the threshold for proving work has been historically undervalued to support a claim on Tuesday saying changes back in 2020 had created problems "Claims have been able to progress without strong evidence of undervaluation and there have been very broad claims where it is difficult to tell whether differences in pay are due to sex-based discrimination or other factors." Claims were concentrated in the public sector with costs to the Crown of all settlements so far totalling $1.78 billion a year "The changes I am proposing will significantly reduce costs to the Crown," she said "The changes will discontinue current pay equity claims." Van Velden told Midday Report she believes in pay equity but the current thresholds were "a bit too loose" Asked how she ensure women were not hurt by this the minister said "I'm a woman and I support women who work" "I also support removing gender based discriminations from our workforces but what I don't support are muddied laws and unclear laws," she said "So these changes are better for all women who are working where we can genuinely say hand on heart that what they are finding with their claims is genuine gender based discrimination." Van Velden told reporters at Parliament any current claims would be stopped and need to restart under the new threshold to show "genuine" gender discrimination and make sure the comparators were right She gave a figure of 33 current claims that would be stopped as the legislation was put through under urgency "You have librarians who've been comparing themselves to transport engineers We have admin and clerical staff at Health New Zealand comparing themselves to mechanical engineers." Social workers had compared themselves to air traffic controllers "We don't believe we have that setting right." Any comparison would now be between female employees and male employees at the same employer "But you cannot go fishing for discrimination across the New Zealand workforce." All current settled claims would continue but the government was drawing "a line in the sand" "We're not stopping claims." The nurse's union has this year had at least 10 pay equity claims in play The PSA union has said pay equity claims and settlements had resulted in significant improvements in pay and working conditions for many workers The union said the changes would make it "impossible for people in female-dominated professions to be paid fairly" "Women across the country will pay the price for this," PSA national secretary Fleur Fitzsimons said "The government's changes today are a dark day for New Zealand women as the government says it will repeal the pay equity law and extinguish 33 existing claims in a constitutional overreach "The PSA is exploring all possible avenues to oppose these unconstitutional amendments and stop this attack on women We will not be deterred in our fight to achieve pay equity for all." "This is a blatant and shameful attack on women," New Zealand Nurses organisation chief executive Paul Goulter said "Women in workforces predominantly performed by female employees have been underpaid and undervalued for generations That is what pay equity claims seek to rectify," he said "This move by the government will widen the pay gap between men and women." The union had at least 10 pay current pay claims across Aged Care These cover many nurses and support workers The E tū union also called the changes an attack on women and a green light to pay them less for work of equal value The government was pulling the rug out from under a 13-year-long fight in aged care "These changes are not about evidence — they are about saving money by keeping women underpaid," national secretary Rachel Mackintosh said in a statement A number of unions have called a snap rally at Parliament at 1pm today in light of the announcement the Council of Trade Unions and representatives of other unions say they will be "protesting the government's attack on women and the destruction of progress on pay equity..." rnz.co.nz Shane William Pritchard has been charged with crimes he didn’t commit and chased for debts he doesn’t owe That’s because the Dunedin man is not the only Shane William Pritchard in town While the duo’s shared name and age has sometimes been a handy loophole for one Shane for the other it has caused problems for 36 years It’s been years of fearing every knock on the door Years of wondering if he’ll be hand-cuffed and taken to jail to be honest,” says Shane William Pritchard a scout and a member of the Air Training Corp remembers getting quite a shock when her friend called one evening She'd been acting as a referee for a gun licence for Shane whose friend informed her that the police had a long list of offences against Shane’s name Not long after that the police turned up to where Shane was working at the local tannery to arrest him “You're scrambling in your head to think of ways that you can prove it's not you.” Another Shane William Pritchard had been born in Otago They were separated by just two weeks and about 50 miles – one growing up in Mosgiel the other in Milton – but also by the lives they’d been leading To watch the full video story go to TVNZ+ Shane from Milton had huge problems focusing at school He was raised in foster care and then boys’ homes I just wanted to look cool and get in trouble,” he tells Fair Go Milton Shane was used to run-ins with police he got pulled over in his car and asked about his driving licence one’s got a licence and the other hasn’t.’ And I’m like ‘obviously it must be the one with a licence’.” he went to his bank to draw out an ACC payment and was asked which bank account was his He says that at that point he was trying to figure out what was going on “I thought it was just an error.” But he took advantage of the situation and withdrew a large sum of cash Mosgiel Shane became aware of the withdrawal when a scheduled car payment was declined and when Milton Shane turned up at the bank to withdraw more money Identity fraud was considered but Milton Shane was legitimately expecting an ACC payment so the withdrawal appeared to be a genuine mistake and the police couldn’t take any action 'Anything I could get away with Mosgiel Shane thought the bank incident would have alerted police to the problem But his nemesis had cottoned on to the advantages of having a second identity to use Milton Shane acquired a suite of furniture on hire-purchase Milton-Shane clocked up more driving offences Mosgiel Shane thought about changing his name but realised he’d have to provide his previous name in the process the courts and debt collectors such as Baycorp should be able to distinguish between himself and Milton Shane The police first addressed the issue in the 1990s after Mosgiel Shane went to the media He was given a letter to carry with him should he be apprehended He and his parents felt his situation wasn’t being taken seriously Mosgiel Shane went to the media a second time in the mid-2000s the police gave their word that a record in their system would stop the misidentification from happening again This does appear to have worked as far as police action goes But while Mosgiel Shane was given the same reassurance by the Ministry of Justice he continued to receive demands from the courts for unpaid fines He’d also get stopped and questioned whenever he left the country for work trips or holidays It took a huge toll on Mosgiel Shane’s mental health not realising the constant stress it placed on his life John Pritchard says that at times his son felt his life wasn’t worth living worrying about what he was going to do to himself and that really ate me up.” he and his son were in tears as Shane admitted he was at breaking point He described going for days at a time unable to eat or sleep wondering what might happen next "Am I going to be in a position where they've got me in handcuffs or I've got debt collectors coming to the door?" ...You're spiralling into this black hole." He started taking anti-anxiety medication which helped And events regarding Milton Shane seemed to settle Milton Shane was charged for fishing without a licence in Twizel and failing to comply with fisheries officers But a court registrar incorrectly entered the birth date of Mosgiel Shane in the system both Shanes were being chased to pay the $1530 fine It was Mosgiel Shane who spotted the error and rang the court He also sent a statement from his manager saying he’d not been fishing in Twizel that day The reply he got was to say he’d been given the wrong form and that they wouldn’t accept his proof They just wanted to know how I was going to pay the fine.” The first Milton Shane knew about this was when Fair Go told him Mosgiel Shane had been chased for the fine He was told to pay up or face the consequences feeling he shouldn’t have to pay good money to correct someone else’s mistake But it cost Mosgiel Shane over $5000 in legal fees and took months of back and forth between him “Why should anybody have to pay their own money to right somebody else's wrongs and prove who they are I’m sick and tired of proving who I am all the time.” He wanted the Ministry of Justice to take responsibility and reimburse him for his legal costs saying court staff such as the registrar in this case have immunity if they make mistakes such as the one made here and if I make a mistake and it's affecting my client that it's going to cost them money to rectify a mistake that I've made.” he deserves a million apologies from those guys,” she says Milton Shane told Fair Go he still gets in trouble but wants the other Shane to know he doesn’t use his birth date anymore And he had a message for him: “We’ve got to get it sorted for you so you can have a good life with you and your family because I’m trying to get my life together with my son and my grandson” He offers to meet to see if they can sort it out together but I’m not interested in meeting him,.” says Mosgiel Shane He says he doesn’t hold any grudges and accepts Milton Shane’s apology And he believes the only way for that to happen is for the courts and the Ministry of Justice to give him a guarantee that mix-ups won’t occur in the future Fair Go asked the Ministry of Justice to appear in person to apologise and provide reassurance to Shane of its plans to guard against these mistakes The Ministry declined our request to be on camera saying any comment on an individual case would compromise the independence of the courts as the Ministry operates separately But it did send a written apology directly to Mosgiel Shane It also admitted mistakes can occur in clerical records but said instructions were clear and the importance of getting things right had been emphasised to staff Mosgiel Shane isn’t totally convinced that’s the end of it “All I want is for the Ministry of Justice and the courts to do their job I'd like to live without this hanging over me all the time his criminal check has come back showing a clean slate Kiwi motorcyclist Shane Richardson is one of two riders who died in an 11-bike crash at a British Supersport Championship event was fatally injured alongside Englishman Owen Jenner on the first corner of the race at Oulton Park A statement from British Superbikes said the race was immediately stopped and trackside medical services deployed "Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled," a spokesperson said "This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another sustaining significant injuries." Richardson was initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit's medical centre before he was taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital with "severe chest injuries" Jenner was also initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit medical centre where he died from a "catastrophic head injury" British rider Tom Tunstall suffered back and abdominal injuries and a further five riders including New Zealander Morgan McLaren-Wood were transferred to the circuit medical centre with minor injuries which did not require transfer to hospital Three more riders were also involved but were uninjured who was a previous New Zealand rider of the year Cemetery Circuit in Whanganui posted to its social media in tribute to Richardson a fantastic and talented racer and a genuine human" "Devastated to hear we have lost another of our racing family Our thoughts are with Hannah and the family along with our condolences to Owen’s family too." Richardson's sponsor Whites Powersports said the team was "extremely saddened" by the news of his death "Shane will be remembered by many as a great racer Our thoughts go out to Shane’s young family and friends during this tough time The New Zealand Superbike Championship said its "deepest sympathies" went out to Richardson's family and friends Lady Gaga gave a free concert Saturday night in front of 2 million fans who poured onto Copacabana Beach for the biggest show of her career (...) Thank you for making history with me,” Lady Gaga told a screaming crowd kicked off the show at around 22.10pm local time with her 2011 song Bloody Mary Cries of joy rose from the tightly-packed fans who sang and danced shoulder-to-shoulder on the vast stretch of sand Concert organisers said 2.1 million people attended the show switching between an array of dresses including one with the colours of the Brazilian flag Some fans – many of them young – arrived on the beach at the crack of dawn to secure a good spot “Today is the best day of my life,” said Manoela Dobes a 27-year-old designer who was wearing a dress plastered with a photograph from when she met Lady Gaga in the United States in 2019 Madonna also turned Copacabana Beach into a massive dance floor last year The large-scale performances are part of an effort led by City Hall to boost economic activity after Carnival and New Years’ Eve festivities and the upcoming month-long Saint John’s Day celebrations in June “It brings activity to the city during what was previously considered the low season – filling hotels and increasing spending in bars generating jobs and income for the population,” said Osmar Lima the city’s secretary of economic development in a statement released by Rio City Hall’s tourism department last month Rio’s City Hall said in a recent report that around 1.6 million people were expected to attend Lady Gaga's concert and that the show should inject at least 600 million reais (NZ$178.3 million) into Rio’s economy Similar concerts are scheduled to take place every year in May at least until 2028 Lady Gaga arrived in Rio in the early hours of Tuesday The city has been alive with Gaga-mania since as it geared up to welcome the pop star for her first show in the country since 2012 Rio’s metro employees danced to Lady Gaga’s 2008 hit song LoveGame and gave instructions for today in a video A free exhibition celebrating her career sold out While the vast majority of attendees were from Rio the event also attracted Brazilians from across the country and international visitors More than 500,000 tourists poured into the city in the days leading up to the show according to data from the local bus station and Tom Jobim airport Rio’s City Hall said in a statement yesterday made a cross-continent trip from Colombia to Brazil to attend the show “I’ve been a 100% fan of Lady Gaga my whole life,” said Serrano who was wearing a T-shirt featuring Lady Gaga’s outlandish costumes over the years the mega-star represents “total freedom of expression – being who one wants without shame” Rio officials have a history of organising huge concerts on Copacabana Beach Madonna’s show drew an estimated 1.6 million fans last year while 4 million people flooded onto the beach for a 1994 New Year’s Eve show by Rod Stewart in 1994 that was the biggest free rock concert in history sixteen sound towers were spread along the beach Rio state’s security plan included the presence of 3300 military and 1500 police officers Among those present were Lady Gaga admirers who remember their disappointment in 2017 when the artist cancelled a performance scheduled in Rio at the last minute due to health issues “She's the best artist in the world,” the 25-year-old said I love you” in Portuguese rose from the crowd behind him whose real name is Ella Yelich O'Connor which also displayed what appears to be the album cover art — an X-ray of a pelvis "100% written in blood," the website read The new album's announcement came a week after she released her latest single What Was That The song's music video was filmed at a mysterious pop-up event in New York City's Washington Square Park that was initially shut down by police. The event ended up going ahead after all, and fans who stayed got to hear the new song for the first time. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lorde (@lorde) It was the first sign of a follow-up to Lorde's previous album Her other albums were 2013's Pure Heroine and 2017's Melodrama she collaborated with British singer Charli XCX on a remix of Girl so confusing — on a re-release of the Grammy award-winning Brat Kim Kardashian thought she was going to be raped and killed when criminals broke into her bedroom in central Paris tied her up and stole more than US$6 million in jewellery 10 people will go on trial in Paris over the robbery abduction and kidnapping of the media personality and the concierge of the residence where she was staying during Paris Fashion Week the night of October 2 Kardashian’s lawyers said she will testify in person at the trial starting Monday and scheduled to run through May 23 "Ms Kardashian is reserving her testimony for the court and jury and does not wish to elaborate further at this time," they said "She has great respect and admiration for the French justice system and has been treated with great respect by the French authorities "She wishes the trial to proceed in an orderly fashion in accordance with French law and with respect for all parties to the case." In interviews and on her family’s reality TV show Kardashian has described being terrified as robbers pointed a gun at her In a 2020 appearance on David Letterman’s Netflix show she tearfully recalled thinking: "This is the time I’m going to get raped Twelve people were originally expected in the defendants’ box and another is seriously ill and can't be tried five of the 10 defendants were present at the scene of the robbery The French press has dubbed them The Granddad Robbers because the main defendants are elderly and have careers as bank robbers with long criminal records Kardashian told investigators she was taken to a bathroom next to her bedroom and placed in the bathtub Her attackers fled on bicycles or on foot and she managed to free herself by removing the tape from her hands and mouth She had also removed the tape from her feet and rushed to her stylist’s room She called her sister Kourtney to tell her about the theft Kardashian told investigators that she had not been injured adding that she wanted to leave France as soon as possible to be reunited with her children According to her testimony and that of the concierge at least one of the suspects had a handgun The gangsters stole many pieces of jewellery estimated to be worth more than US$6 million (NZ$10 million) Only one piece of jewellery — a diamond cross on platinum that was lost during the suspects' escape — has been recovered Two of the accused have partially confessed to the crime is one of two suspected robbers who allegedly entered the apartment his genetic profile was found on the tape used to gag Kardashian who was waiting for him in a parked car at a nearby train station The second robber said he tied up the concierge with cables but did not go up to Kardashian’s apartment said he acted as a lookout in the ground-floor reception area He said he was unarmed and did not personally threaten Kardashian but admitted he shared responsibility for the crime Abbas was arrested in January 2017 and spent 21 months in prison before being released under judicial supervision he co-authored a French-language book titled I Sequestered Kim Kardashian is the second alleged robber suspected of entering the flat although he was filmed by CCTV cameras and numerous telephone contacts with the other co-defendants show his involvement The other defendants are suspected of providing information about Kardashian’s presence in the apartment Others are accused of playing a role in the resale of the jewellery in Antwerp Joe Cocker and Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — in a class that also includes pop star Cyndi Lauper the rock duo the White Stripes and grunge masters Soundgarden the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status and the late singer-songwriter Warren Zevon will get the Musical Influence Award pianist Nicky Hopkins and bassist Carol Kaye will each get the Musical Excellence Award who sang at Woodstock and was best known for his cover of The Beatles’ With a Little Help From My Friends a member of Elvis Costello & The Attractions who argued that Cocker is "about as rock and roll as it gets" Soundgarden — with the late Chris Cornell as singer — get into the Hall on their third nomination They follow two other grunge acts in the Hall — Nirvana and Pearl Jam Bad Company get in having become radio fixtures with such arena-rock staples as Feel Like Makin’ Love Can’t Get Enough and Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy The Ahmet Ertegun Award — given to nonperforming industry professionals who had a major influence on music — will go to Lenny Waronker Some nominees that didn't get in this year included Mariah Carey and subsequent Let’s Twist Again are considered among the most popular songs in the history of rock 'n' roll The 83-year-old has expressed frustration that he hadn't been granted entry before including telling the AP in 2014: "I don’t want to get in there when I’m 85 years old so you better do it quick while I’m still smiling." Lauper rose to fame in the 1980s with hits such as Time After Time and Girls Just Want To Have Fun and went on to win a Tony Award for Kinky Boots have six Grammys and a reputation for pushing the boundaries of hip-hop The White Stripes — made up of Jack White and Meg White — were indie darlings in the early 2000s with such songs as Seven Nation Army Artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before they’re eligible for induction The induction ceremony will take place in Los Angeles this fall Nominees were voted on by more than 1200 artists historians and music industry professionals The selection criteria include "an artist’s impact on other musicians the scope and longevity of their career and body of work as well as their innovation and excellence in style and technique" Dave Matthews Band and singer-guitarist Peter Frampton were inducted Anyone who has been to Old Papatoetoe will know that there’s a lot happening in the neighbourhood now It’s exciting to see big changes happening in this community but we know this can come with some disruption Find out more information below on what’s coming to Old Papatoetoe and when you can expect to see it the upgraded laneway runs from and includes the Civic Plaza on St George Street through to the Wallace Road car park and Piko Toetoe development This project is largely complete and is now open to the public while the final touches are underway With the painting of a new Mana Whenua-designed mural underway and final planting scheduled for autumn This project will create a connection from Cambridge Terrace to Stadium Lane through to Wallace Road for vehicles and pedestrians  It will improve access to Allan Brewster Leisure Centre and Stadium Reserve and a low-speed street design to support better access and increased use of Stadium Reserve safe crossing points and a separated cycle lane coming to Cambridge Terrace Construction on the upgrade of Stadium Reserve started in February and will be complete later this year bring an epic new park including a playground offer enhanced green space for the community and provide a kick-a-ball area to Papatoetoe aiming to encourage more use of the space make it safer and meet the needs of a growing population This is an artist’s impression of what the Stadium Reserve playground will look like when it’s finished In addition to these public realm projects The Piko Toetoe development on Tavern Lane will introduce a mix of 2 This development will feature public pedestrian laneways to which will contribute to improved connectivity between the main street and Stadium Reserve this series of projects is set to create a more connected Patch in the Park on Saturday 12th April 2025 Old Papatoetoe will offer fun kids' activities and exciting performances from local musicians Kids can unleash their creativity on corflute cut-outs which will be showcased on the construction fencing around town Be sure to follow the Eke Panuku Development Auckland Facebook and our local board Facebook page for all the latest updates © Auckland Council 2025 All rights reserved For more information on what data is contained in the cookies please click the 'Find out more on the Auckland Council website' button Sign up for our e-newsletter and be the first to know about exciting events and news A man assaulted at a bus stop in Papatoetoe on the weekend has now died in hospital It is the second recent assault and death at an Auckland bus stop following the death of Kyle Whorrall after being attacked at a bus stop in Meadowbank over Easter weekend Police said the Papatoetoe victim was found with serious head injuries in Auckland on Sunday succumbed to injuries last night," said Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward Hayward said police do not believe it was a random event and both men have previously interacted with each other this incident has resulted in a tragic outcome with the loss of a life." Police said they are not currently able to release the victim's name "We are ensuring there is support available for the family at this difficult time," said Hayward Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday The father of the US student who died after being attacked at a bus stop says it's "such a waste" of a gifted person's life Whorrall died after being attacked at an Auckland bus stop over Easter A 32-year-old woman has also been charged as an accessory after Kyle Whorrall was killed in a "senseless attack" New Zealand RSS Follow RNZ News This is the second death at an Auckland bus stop in April after Kyle Whorall was attacked at a bus stop in Meadowbank on April 19 Police say two occupants of an erratically driven vehicle attacked Whorrall while he was sitting alone at the bus stop that night Whorrall was struck with a “long” weapon around 10pm A man in his 60s has died in hospital after allegedly being assaulted at a bus stop in Papatoetoe over the weekend Police were called to Great South Road around 2.15 pm on 27 April after the victim was found unconscious with a serious head injury He was rushed to Auckland City Hospital and placed in intensive care but tragically succumbed to his injuries last night Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Hayward of Counties Manukau CIB confirmed that a 34-year-old man has been arrested and charged with assault The accused appeared in the Manukau District Court today with further charges possible as the investigation continues “Police are not treating this as a random attack,” Hayward said “We understand the two men had prior interactions.” Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name citing the early stage of the investigation Support is being provided to the grieving family Police have limited their comments as the case is now before the courts More updates to follow as the investigation progresses An Auckland bus driver has been stood down after an alleged assault left a man dead A man died in hospital following a daylight incident at a bus stop in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe on Sunday A man has since been arrested and charged with assault AT director of public transport and active modes Stacey van der Putten tonight confirmed a bus driver had been taken off duty ”We were devastated to hear about this incident and our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragic event,“ van der Putten said “We can confirm that a bus driver employed by Go Bus has been stood down following the incident AT is taking this incident extremely seriously and both AT and Go Bus are assisting police with their investigation into the incident.” Police earlier said the man was found unconscious “with a serious head injury” was transferred to the intensive care unit at Auckland City Hospital A 34-year-old man has since been arrested and charged with assault Hayward said further charges could potentially be laid It is the second death at an Auckland bus stop in April after Kyle Whorall was attacked at a bus stop in Meadowbank on April 19. A quad bike crash in rural South Canterbury has left one person dead A single male Oriental fruit fly was found on 3 January in a surveillance trap in a suburban back yard in the Papatoetoe/Māngere area. An operation, led by Biosecurity New Zealand which is part of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is now underway in response to the discovery of the fruit fly For the most up to date information on this response, visit Biosecurity New Zealand’s website This area is divided into two zones, A and B, which have different restrictions. To check if you are in the controlled area and which zone applies to you visit Biosecurity New Zealand ‘s website. These restrictions mean some changes to rubbish (particularly food scraps) collections in the area. Zone A general restrictions (source: Biosecurity New Zealand) Zone B general restrictions (source: Biosecurity New Zealand) For more information on what data is contained in the cookies, please click the 'Find out more on the Auckland Council website' button. To accept cookies from this site, please click the 'I Agree' button. Sign up for our e-newsletter and be the first to know about exciting events and news. Manukau CityBy negotiation321Brand New & Standalone Home!Discover modern living with these beautifully designed 3-bedroom + study standalone homes in sought-after Papatoetoe • 3 Spacious Bedrooms + Study – Ideal for work-from-home or an extra guest room • 2.5 Modern Bathrooms – Including a master ensuite and guest powder room • Single Internal Access Garage – Secure and convenient • Standalone Freehold Homes – No shared walls • Quality fittings and finishes throughout • Open-plan living with great indoor-outdoor flow Contact us today to book a viewing and secure your dream home in Papatoetoe See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson based on a borrower’s individual credit assessment.Canstar's Most Awarded Personal LoanGet a renovation loan up to $70K and bring your vision to life we can approve your home improvement loan quickly and get your renovation started Exciting changes are on the horizon as the plan to revitalise Old Papatoetoe town centre kicks off - and it’s set to be a game changer The plan introduces fresh vibes for the area to enliven Old Papatoetoe town centre boost local business and provide new homes marking significant investment in the area Fellow Manukau Ward Councillor Alf Filipaina shares “Having been a councillor at Manukau City Council from 2003 it is pleasing to see the progress in Old Papatoetoe I’m looking forward to the transformation over the next few years.” Council invested a record $3.2 billion last year in assets such as the roads and Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia is thrilled to see Old Papatoetoe town centre “It’s a beautiful area with a unique character and this plan aims to address its underutilisation.” Piko Toetoe development is underway The site is located behind the St George Street shops and bordered by the Papatoetoe New World Allan Brewster Leisure Centre and the rail line “Old Papatoetoe has significant capacity to accommodate further growth and would benefit from new investment as we see more and more diverse families making Papatoetoe their new home “It’s especially encouraging to see mana whenua actively engaged in reinforcing and incorporating the narrative and cultural heritage of the region into this." an underutilised council property has now been developed into 29 new homes by the New Zealand Housing Foundation who support families into home ownership The upgrade of Chambers Laneway is underway and on track to be complete by Christmas it will feature a statement mana whenua designed a native bird that used to be found in wetlands in the area but is now extinct Cambridge Terrace extension This new street will extend Cambridge Terrace linking the upgraded Chambers Laneway and Piko Toetoe development to Stadium Reserve improving access and connectivity between Papatoetoe and Puhinui train stations The Stadium Reserve upgrade Alongside the nearby Allan Brewster Leisure Centre this upgrade will create a vibrant hub for community activities mana whenua provided the narrative ‘The Mists of Kohuora’ For more details on this, visit the Eke Panuku Old Papatoetoe webpage Sign up for our Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board e-newsletter and get it delivered to your inbox each month. E McCullough AvenueSave listing+19+19Pictures19Map17B Manukau CityBy negotiation321BUY ONE OR BUY THEM ALL !Looking for a modern comfortable home in a prime Papatoetoe location Set on a freehold title and comes complete with quality fixtures and fittings Rest easy with the security of a 10-Year Stamford Builders Warranty for peace of mind Perfectly positioned in an established neighbourhood you're just a short stroll to local amenities and public transport and major motorway connections only minutes away Plus you’re in the zone for Papatoetoe Central Papatoetoe Intermediate and Otahuhu College These newly built homes not only deliver on style and comfort also places you in the heart of Papatoetoe’s thriving community View It Today and take the first step toward making your dream come true See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Manukau City$949,000523125m²344m²Spacious Family Home in PapatoetoeTap into comfort & Style at 22 Ranfurly Road Papatoetoe featuring 5 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms This property offers you ample space for a growing family or a savvy investor The home boasts a refurbished interior perfect for comfortable living Enjoy the seamless flow between the kitchen ideal for both daily living & entertaining The property site is freehold section with a 344m2 land area It is fully fenced with a gate providing both security & privacy Convenience at your door step with a prime location just around the corner from Kmart Manukau & Westfield Manukau shops the puhinui train station is just a short distance away Don't miss out this fantastic opportunity! For more information contact Hardev Brar on 0274427338 Controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Auckland’s Papatoetoe and Māngere have been lifted after no further evidence of the Oriental fruit fly was found in the area Biosecurity New Zealand, part of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) announced the update today The decision to end the operation follows six weeks of intensive fruit fly trapping and inspections of hundreds of kilograms of fruit the Biosecurity New Zealand signs and wheelie bins will be removed from the affected area in Papatoetoe over the next few days This also means that all kerbside collections We encourage you to take full advantage of the food scraps collection service and join thousands of Aucklanders who have already helped turn over 30,000 tonnes of food scraps into clean energy Here’s some summer tips to beat the heat and you can also request an additional food scraps bin by contacting us. Biosecurity New Zealand quickly placed legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Papatoetoe and Māngere on 4 January 2025 after a single male Oriental fruit fly was identified from a national surveillance trap. Since then, no further adult fruit flies, eggs, larvae or pupae have been found. MPI are satisfied that the Controlled Area Notice restrictions can be lifted, and response operations can be closed. Restrictions are lifted but stay vigilant. If you think you’ve spotted an Oriental fruit fly, eggs, or larvae/maggots in your fruit, call Biosecurity New Zealand (MPI) right away at 0800 80 99 66. MPI will continue as normal to check Biosecurity New Zealand’s 7800 fruit fly traps around the country, including some 200 traps in Papatoetoe and Māngere. Manukau CityPrice By Negotiation422BEST NEW BUILDS IN PAPATOETOE - MUST SELL!Step into tomorrow with these newly built freehold smart homes - where cutting-edge technology meets timeless comfort and style FUTURE-READY LIVING - Full Google Smart Integration Enjoy complete control from your smartphone or tablet - manage lighting • Internal Access Garage + Additional On-Site Parking Covered by Stamford Building Warranty Insurance (Up to 10 years - full terms available upon request) Enjoy the freedom of full ownership with no ongoing levies or shared costs These homes offer more than just a place to live - they're a smart investment in your lifestyle and future Limited availability - don't miss your chance Contact us today to arrange a viewing or make an offer Disclaimer - This property is being sold by auction or without a price and therefore a price guide can not be provided The website may have filtered the property into a price bracket for website functionality purposes All prospective purchasers shall complete their own due diligence and satisfy themselves with respect to information supplied during the marketing of this property including but not limited to: the floor and land sizes Manukau CityDeadline sale closes 15 May 2025 14:00312620m²Renovator’s Reward AwaitsDeadline sale: Closes on Thursday 15 May 2025 at 2:00PM (unless sold prior) Set in a sought-after pocket of Papatoetoe this property offers an exciting opportunity for first home buyers or keen DIYers to roll up their sleeves and make it their own this home is perfect for those with a vision to renovate the home features three good sized bedrooms and one bathroom with a separate toilet for convenience lounge and dining areas are spacious and filled with natural light offering plenty of room for everyday living and future upgrades While the house is in a liveable condition there’s ample scope to modernise and add your personal touch both inside and out Positioned on a generous 620sqm freehold section you’ll enjoy an elevated outlook that captures views of the lush bush surroundings bordering Kohuora Park and green open spaces virtually at your doorstep it's the perfect setting for a relaxed family life Location is key and this home is just a short drive to St George Street shops putting all your daily needs and weekend shopping within easy reach Families will appreciate being in zone for Papatoetoe West School this is your chance to secure a great home and create something special bring your vision and unlock the value in this hidden gem Contact the team today or join us at the open homes as advertised See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Imagine this - wheeling out a portable gas barbeque to the outdoor area and if it is low on gas you then make multiple trips to the nearest petrol station swapping or refilling the empty gas bottles—several times a week a time-consuming task that became all too familiar for the staff at the Papatoetoe Centennial Pool and Leisure Centre until two new all electric barbeques were installed at the site Papatoetoe Centennial Pool and Leisure Centre is a hub of activity bringing together locals and visitors to enjoy recreation and community events The two brand-new electric barbeques at the centre have instantly become a crowd favourite Electric barbeques are already in several pools and parks/reserves across the wider Auckland region It took six weeks to transform the space including laying concrete slabs running the wiring from the plant room to the barbeques and then commissioning and thoroughly testing everything to ensure it was ready for use before the outdoor pools opened for the highly anticipated summer season on Saturday 14th December 2024 ensuring the barbeques were ready to welcome families and friends for a perfect summer gathering the barbeques have already been booked and used 120 times They have replaced the need for gas versions saving staff valuable time that was once spent refilling or swapping gas bottles The barbeques can be hired and are perfect for any event—from swimming carnivals and school sports days to pool parties Not only are the electric barbeques safer to use but they also align with Auckland Council’s goal of reducing carbon emissions making them a more environmentally friendly choice This upgrade not only benefits the staff and the environment but also enhances the overall experience for visitors providing an exciting new service that adds even more value to the Papatoetoe Centennial Pool and Leisure Centre Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month. Or follow us on Facebook. 13 May 2025 18:00311Brick & Tile Meets Garden ChicVendors have already planned their next move and are ready to meet the market Auction is on 13th May - all enquiries are welcome Loved and cherished family home with unique style and character hits the market for the first time in 30 years Charming brick and tile in immaculate condition house with English Garden Flair nestled at the back of the private driveway is perfect for families • Private driveway with the gate- no shared access • Lovely English-style garden with classic appeal Don't miss this unique opportunity to own a home that offers space to breathe For the documents please follow the link: https://vltre.co/DaXqwH Outstanding young leaders from Ōtara-Papatoetoe have been honoured at an award ceremony celebrating their contributions to local decision-making and community initiatives has been driving positive change in the community What started as a small initiative has grown into a key part of the board’s work programme empowering youth to shape their neighbourhoods the TOPS programme encourages youth involvement in decision-making and initiatives that impact their local area we nurture the next generation of leaders who will shape the future and ensure the sustainability of local governance for years to come.” Ōtara-Papatoete local board members in attendance: chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia Topou Folau and Li’amainaia Lorenzo Kaisara The recent awards ceremony was a festive occasion featuring nominations from five out of six local schools the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board recognises standout juniors from local high schools with awards and monetary contributions are invited to join the TOP Squad (TOPS) Youth Council Local board member Albert Lim (left) keeping up with the youth in an entertaining moment during the awards dinner A key moment at the event was honouring the late Fa'anānā Efeso Collins a passionate supporter of South Auckland youth Community Programme Delivery South Specialist Advisor for Youth “A well-presented evening for our future leaders TOPS put on an engaging evening where not only did they pay homage to community leaders those that have passed and those that had made an impact on their lives but also filled it with laughter and comedy This marks the beginning of another exciting year ahead with mentors and new and emerging talented young people from the community to engage the community.” Jzyah Strickland & Hinalagi Pue (Tangaroa College) Ata Raveora & Aaliyah Alofaifo (Papatoetoe High School) Stephaniya Parekura-Tekapo & Xavier Tasi (Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate) Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month. Or follow us on Facebook Papatoetoe Rugby Club’s Under-12 Warriors mixed team and Under-13 Red Diamonds open girls' team are gearing up for an exciting week-long adventure in Brisbane The seven-day tour to Australia will give the group of young South Auckland players a chance to showcase their skills and gain exposure It included $2,000 in funding which provided players $400 each Ōtara-Papatoetoe board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia is proud to see the Awards allow the local board to be more responsive to people who represent the local area at the highest level with excellence "These young players had a successful season and can now expand their sporting experience playing at an overseas tournament “We also hope these award recipients come back with experience and skills gained or at home with younger siblings and cousins." Both boards showed their support for the teams since the players live in both local board areas the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu local board celebrates the outstanding contributions of individuals throughout the area “These young people are about to embark on what will be the most exciting rugby tour they have experienced to date Club chairman Luke Mealamu says there's a lot of talent in South Auckland Ensuring that our children get to see what it's like to play offshore to get to play internationally against international opposition,” says Mealamu And hopefully … someone sees our talent and it goes from there.” Mealamu estimated each team has raised over $40,000 for the trip “We're forever grateful to the local boards,” says Mealamu Chairman of the Papatoetoe Rugby Club (centre) with Club Manager Onosai Auva'a (right) at the team blessing on Monday Sign up and keep an eye on stories like this and more, with our monthly e-newsletters: Ōara-Papatoetoe and Māngere-Ōtāhuhu. 07 May 2025 13:00411709m²A Do Up Potential and With Big Rewards!Auction: 62 Highbrook Drive East Tamaki on Wednesday 7 May 2025 at 1:00PM (unless sold prior) This property offers a wonderful opportunity for a lucky purchaser to gain a foothold in this highly desirable location the next owners of this fabulous property will have a blank canvas in which to create the home of their dreams accommodation comprises 4 spacious bedrooms A single external access garage adds convenience and there’s plenty of room to create additional off-street parking if desired -Transport: Easy access to public transport and major routes for seamless connections across Auckland Call Us Now – Don’t Miss Out on this Opportunity See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson 21 May 2025 13:00424860m²Nest or Invest on 860 m2 in Papatoetoe!Auction: 62 Highbrook Drive East Tamaki on Wednesday 21 May 2025 at 1:00PM (unless sold prior) • Paint your thoughts on spacious 4-bedroom • Enjoy the convenience of a triple garage for all your parking needs including workshop • Relax and entertain in the expansive front yard and backyard • Walking distance to Papatoetoe High School for added convenience • Just a short drive to Auckland Airport and Middlemore Hospital Embrace the chance to upgrade your living situation and create a better future for yourself and your family Take the first step towards a brighter tomorrow by scheduling a viewing today See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Get a renovation loan up to $70K and bring your vision to life Stepping into a new community can be an exciting yet challenging experience The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board recognises the unique challenges that newcomers face and is dedicated to making their transition into the community as smooth and welcoming as possible Ōtara and Papatoetoe offer a vibrant community with a blend of culture Ōtara is known for its lively Saturday markets while Papatoetoe’s established neighbourhood is conveniently close to the airport and key shopping areas like Manukau City Centre and Hunters Corner The area is home to landmarks like Puhinui Reserve and Manu kau Noa Iho - Hayman Park destination playground with local teams excelling regionally and nationally the board has launched a comprehensive Welcoming Plan as part of the Welcoming Communities programme This initiative ensures that everyone who arrives is not only supported but also feels a genuine sense of belonging becoming an integral part of the dynamic and diverse Ōtara-Papatoetoe community Welcoming Communities is an international programme led in Aotearoa/New Zealand by the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to assist councils and their communities to create more welcoming and inclusive environments for newcomers to their area The Welcoming Communities team met with iwi community stakeholders and service providers to identify opportunities and challenges for more successful settlement outcomes for newcomers Kaipatiki and Albert-Eden local boards are part of the Welcoming Communities programme which forms part of the wider Welcoming International programme which is a coalition of initiatives in six additional countries (United States Board member Li'amanaia Lorenzo Kaisara at one of the many citizen ceremonies in Manukau Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month. Or follow us on Facebook Our projects aim to provide better transport options from innovative new travel solutions and improving public transport to maintaining current infrastructure View our featured projects and projects by region Give your feedback on our projects, plans and strategies to help shape Auckland’s transport options This 3.45 km-long tunnel underneath Auckland’s city centre will increase the efficiency reliability and frequency of Auckland’s passenger rail network. We’re improving safety and accessibility for people travelling between Point Chevalier town centre and the Westmere shops We’re making improvements to the Karanga-a-Hape Station precinct before the City Rail Link is complete. congestion-free busway will connect Panmure View a list of proposed or active projects in your area View closed, completed or cancelled projects A new plan is set to empower the Ōtara-Papatoetoe community to better prepare for and respond to emergencies The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board Emergency Readiness and Response Plan created with Auckland Emergency Management (AEM) offers practical guidance to help residents and businesses stay safe before The plan responds to lessons learned from the devastating Auckland floods and Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 which highlighted the importance of local preparedness and community support during emergency events It identifies the area’s top hazards and provides tips on reducing risk Developed through consultation with diverse community and faith-based groups the plan is designed to reflect the unique needs of the 98,500 residents in mind Printed copies will be available in libraries and community centres while a digital version will soon be accessible on the council website The Local Board Emergency Readiness and Response Plan provides information and advice for people living and working in the local area to get ready for and respond to an emergency It provides clarity on the roles and responsibilities of Auckland Emergency Management individuals and communities across the four Rs of emergency management: reduction Sign up for your Local Board E-news and get the latest news and events direct to your inbox each month. Or follow us on Facebook. Manukau CityPrice by Negotiation416121m²905m²Stylish Bungalow with PotentialStylish Bungalow with Potential Meaning: A fully renovated 1950s home on a large flat freehold section-perfect for families Set on a generous 905sqm (more or less) flat freehold section this beautifully renovated 1950s bungalow is a true standout Whether you're looking to move in and enjoy the home blends classic character with modern comfort the layout offers flexibility for families of all sizes The heart of the home is its open-plan kitchen and dining area flowing effortlessly into a spacious living room - an ideal setup for both daily life and entertaining Separate living area can easily double as a bedroom or media room - you decide a large double garage sits at the rear of the property complete with an additional rumpus/storage/workshop space - perfect for hobbies • Modern family bathroom plus additional toilet • Zoned Residential - Mixed Housing Suburban (currently marked as red zone) Perfectly positioned directly opposite Papatoetoe East School and just minutes from Manukau City Centre this property offers the ideal balance of tranquillity and convenience Zoned Residential - Mixed Housing Suburban (currently marked as a Red Zone for developments) the future development potential is the cherry on top With its renovation complete and future development potential in place Get in quick - homes like this don't last long contact Madu Kari on 027 55 66 195 to make it yours Manukau City$599,00021160m²Refreshed & Ready...Location!Step into a smart start or solid investment with this refreshed and modernised 2-bedroom brick and tile gem perfectly positioned in a sought-after part of Papatoetoe this low-maintenance home ticks all the right boxes • Private Rear Courtyard - A Hidden Gem With Huge Potential you'll find a private courtyard offering a quiet space to relax or entertain it could become your very own urban oasis-think veggie garden • Ideal for first-time buyers wanting easy living • Solid investment with strong rental appeal • Perfect for downsizers looking to stay central • Vacant and ready now - no waiting around Set in a friendly neighbourhood and close to all the essentials - including public transport and excellent schools - this home offers both lifestyle and convenience Call Iza now on 022-4929850 to arrange a private viewing or visit us at the next open home Disclaimer - All prospective purchasers shall complete their own due diligence Manukau City$698,0003123 Bedroom Standalone HomeFor investors this property offers a strong rental yield making it an attractive addition to any portfolio this home presents a fantastic opportunity to step onto the property ladder in a sought-after The spacious big backyard is one of the standouts features of this home - providing ample space for family gatherings Imagine BBQs in the summer or plenty of room for kids to play - the possibilities are endless you'll find three good-sized bedrooms with plenty of natural light The living areas offer ample space for relaxing and entertaining guests making this home perfect for everyday living • Nearby schools: Papatoetoe High School and Papatoetoe Central School are just a short drive or walk away making it convenient for families with children • Proximity to train station: The Papatoetoe Train Station is just a short distance away offering easy access to Auckland's CBD and other areas for commuters • Whether you're looking for your first home or seeking a high-yield investment Don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity 07 May 2025 09:00313107m²#THEDAY - OWNERS MOVING NORTH NEED TO SELL#THEDAY 7th May 2025 from 9:00 am at Ray White Manukau (unless sold prior) Nestled in a sought-after neighborhood and set peacefully down a private driveway this beautifully cared-for home is ready for your family to move in and make memories Whether you're stepping onto the property ladder or looking for a smart investment Step inside to discover a home filled with natural light It's more than just a house - it's a place where family dinners 107sqm floor area - perfect for the growing family - Great outdoor flow - enjoy easy access to the deck and large fenced yard - Lock-up garage + extra parking for 2-3 cars - Fully fenced section - ideal for kids and pets to play safely - Modern HRV system & heat pump for year-round comfort - Immaculately presented - just move in and relax private yard is a dream for active families - whether it's weekend BBQs so you can enjoy more freedom and less worry You'll be in zone for excellent local schools including Papatoetoe Intermediate and Puhinui School - making school drop-offs a breeze and giving your kids the best start and Papatoetoe Town Centre just minutes away your weekends are sorted - from retail therapy to dinner dates making commutes easy and weekend getaways even easier A New Chapter Begins Here - The current owners are on the move giving your family the chance to snap up a home that truly ticks all the boxes Come take a look - your family's next chapter could start right here We can't wait to show you through this beauty of a home Come and see us at the open homes or organise a private viewing Disclaimer - This property is being sold by auction and therefore a price guide can not be provided Police are treating a fire that broke out at a home in the south Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe this morning as suspicious The fire began at the rear of the property before spreading to the rest of the house People inside the property at time were not injured Manukau CityAsking Price: $949,00041195m²848m²Urgent Sale: Presenting All Offers!Nestled in the heart of Papatoetoe this fully renovated 4-bedroom home offers a fantastic opportunity for both families and investors Set on a generous 848sqm freehold section this property provides the perfect blend of space you'll enjoy the close proximity to schools Whether you're a first home buyer or an investor this property provides exceptional value in a fantastic location Don't miss out on the opportunity to make this your new home sweet home For more info contact RUBAL SINGH on 021 333 350 or KARLEN ATHNAEIL on 027 777 8468 Manukau CityPrice By Negotiation314100m²875m²Your Private Oasis - 875sqm Land!Discover this charming weatherboard home beautifully positioned on a generous 875 sqm freehold land and 100 sqm of floor area and a large deck offering seamless indoor/outdoor living-this property truly has it all complete with your own bridge leading to a tranquil garden sanctuary a garage/workshop provides extra space where convenience and functionality meet offering both space and a dedicated area for projects or storage Act quick to secure everything it has to offer before it's gone - Excellent backyard with a Private Garden Papatoetoe High School and Papatoetoe West School - 2km to motorway access and 4 minutes to Papatoetoe Train Station Come to our open homes or call for a private viewing PLEASE NOTE: Specified floor and land area sizes have been obtained from sources such as Property Guru They have not been measured by the Salesperson or Hills Real Estate Limited We recommend you seek your own independent legal advice if these sizes are material to your purchasing decision Manukau CityBy negotiation434270m²Bright and Perfect for Families!Don’t miss your chance to secure a generously sized 4-bedroom residence brick and tile a bright and inviting property that offers both exceptional family living and the potential for extra income This generously sized home is designed for comfort and versatility featuring a well-thought-out layout that caters to a modern lifestyle Whether you’re looking for more space for your growing family or seeking an investment opportunity -4 Bedrooms – Plenty of space for the whole family -1 Downstairs Bedroom with an ensuite and pantry ideal for rental income or a private guest suite including an ensuite for added privacy and comfort -Open-Plan Living – A spacious living room and dining area -Modern Kitchen – Well-equipped for family meals and hosting friends -Double Garage – Secure parking with plenty of storage space this is your chance to secure an exceptional property in an unbeatable location There's endless room for children to play or for you to create your dream garden This home offers the perfect balance of family living and potential rental income Contact us today to arrange a viewing before it’s too late See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Biosecurity New Zealand has now placed legal controls on the movement of fruit and vegetables in Papatoetoe Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner north Mike Inglis says The move – expected to last at least two weeks – comes after a single male Oriental fruit fly was found in a surveillance trap in the South Auckland suburb no other flies have been found in surveillance traps “We need community help to make sure we successfully find and eradicate any further fruit flies that may be present in the area.” Biosecurity New Zealand staff are busy in the area today laying more traps and giving out information to households “There have been 12 previous fruit fly incursions in New Zealand which we have successfully eradicated so we have a very strong and detailed operational plans to guide our work.” “The rules now in place prohibit moving fruit and vegetables out of a specified controlled area around where the fruit fly was found.” A detailed map of the controlled area and a full description of the boundaries and rules is at https://www.mpi.govt.nz/dmsdocument/66984-Oriental-fruit-fly-CAN The controlled area has two zones – A and B “In Zone A no whole fresh fruit and vegetables except for leafy vegetables and soil-free root vegetables regardless of whether it was bought or grown.” In Zone B all fruit and vegetables grown within Zone B can’t be moved out of the controlled area “These legal controls are an important precaution while we investigate whether there are any further fruit flies present in the area this will help prevent their spread out of the area.” Biosecurity NZ is working closely with the Government’s Industry Agreement partners in the horticultural industry “We all appreciate this will be inconvenient for the many people living in and around the controlled area but following these directions is a critical precaution to protect our horticultural industries home gardens and our New Zealand way of life “It is likely the restrictions will be in place for at least two weeks.” Signs would be put in place notifying people of the restrictions and marking the controlled area boundaries people should call the Ministry of Primary Industries' Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66 No fruit and vegetables (other than leafy or soil-free root vegetables and cooked frozen and canned fruit) can be moved from Zone A of the controlled area Compost and green waste from gardens also cannot be moved out of this zone Residents in Zone A are asked to avoid composting fruit and vegetables use a sink waste disposal unit if available or bins provided by Biosecurity New Zealand No fruit and vegetables grown in Zone B can be moved out of the controlled area You are free to move commercially purchased fruit and vegetables (e.g fruit and vegetables bought at the supermarket) out of the area Home-grown produce waste and garden waste needs to be disposed of in Biosecurity New Zealand bins More information on the fruit fly can be found at https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/exotic-pests-and-diseases-in-new-zealand/active-biosecurity-responses-to-pests-and-diseases/oriental-fruit-fly-detection/ Biosecurity New Zealand announced yesterday a single male Oriental fruit fly had been found in a surveillance trap in Papatoetoe, sparking a major biosecurity operation There would be a massive economic cost to the country’s horticulture industry if the fruit fly established itself in New Zealand Extra field teams were in Papatoetoe yesterday,fri but checks of other traps in the suburb and neighbouring Māngere didn’t find any other fruit flies “Our previous experience with the successful eradication of several different types of fruit fly is that we might find other insects “We will be ramping up trapping and testing with daily checks in a 200m zone from the original find and three daily testing in a second zone out to 1500m.” The most likely way fruit flies arrived in New Zealand was on fresh fruit and vegetables Residents could expect to see Biosecurity NZ staff in the area and some – always showing ID – may ask to check fruit trees on private property The fruit fly’s discovery was a concern for the country’s growers Horticulture New Zealand chief executive Kate Scott said yesterday Oriental fruit fly maggots can feed on 300 different fruit and vegetables “While the Oriental fruit fly poses no risk to human health its establishment in New Zealand could have severe economic consequences for the horticulture industry,” Scott said “It will also impact those Kiwis growing fruit and vegetables in their gardens at home encouraged his community in Māngere and Papatoetoe to be vigilant about not moving fruit or vegetables and reporting any sightings of the insect to authorities “One of the key things is to make sure you know the restrictions That’s exactly what we need to do,” Filipaina said “Biosecurity is the lifeline of our communities.” Biosecurity New Zealand had successfully eradicated fruit flies found inside the country the previous 12 times incursions were detected in Auckland and Northland since 1996 Sign up to The Daily H, a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday. 18 May 2025 15:00211,666m²1,847m²Prime Freehold Commercial DevelopmentPrime Freehold Commercial Development Opportunity in The Heart of Papatoetoe Strategic location in the revitalised Old Papatoetoe Town Centre: - Attractive holding income of $220,000 p.a - Two-level standalone commercial building - Located just 200m from St George Street and approx - Close proximity to New World Supermarket supporting high-density mixed-use development - This is a rare opportunity to secure a substantial site in one of South Auckland's fastest-growing urban centres Strategically located this property sits within Papatoetoe's rapidly growing town centre an area earmarked for growth by Panuku Development With increasing demand for housing and urban amenities this is a rare opportunity to secure a high-potential site in a booming precinct Auction Date & Time: 18th May 2025 at 3 PM Contact Zarn Ha: 021 892 500 or [email protected] Contact Aaron Jokhan: 021 998 018 or [email protected] The Papatoetoe fruit fly response cost an estimated $2.4 million Biosecurity New Zealand’s commissioner for the north said the actions taken in partnership with the sector were to protect the country’s $7 billion horticulture industry “The estimated cost is small in comparison with the economic impact to New Zealand of it becoming established here,” Inglis said The response to the detection of a single male Oriental fruit fly in a national surveillance trap in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe ended on February 13 “At the peak of the response – which ran between 3 January 2025 and 13 February we had more than 150 people involved – staff from across MPI alongside our contractors and Government Industry Agreement partners in the horticulture industry,” Inglis said The Ministry for Primary Industries notified New Zealand’s trade partners on the detection of the Oriental fruit fly in Papatoetoe which included information about the response and the strong controls implemented extensive trade restrictions were not required.” The response involved six weeks of trapping and windfall fruit from the area examined.  legal controls were placed on the movement of fruit and produce out of a controlled area in Papatoetoe and Mangere to prevent the spread of any other fruit flies that may have been present “No further Oriental fruit flies were found over this period giving us confidence that there was not a breeding population in the area.”  An additional response to a single male Oriental fruit fly identified from a backyard surveillance trap in the suburb of Birkdale in Auckland is still ongoing Biosecurity New Zealand has 7800 fruit fly traps around the country {"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"/2025/01/04/fruit-vegetable-movement-restrictions-in-place-for-aucklands-papatoetoe/"},"datePublished":"2025-01-04T01:45:58.763Z","dateModified":"2025-01-04T01:49:19.693Z","headline":"Fruit The legal controls were put in place by Biosecurity New Zealand after the male fly was discovered in a surveillance trap in a suburban backyard in Papatoetoe no other flies have been found in the other 187 surveillance traps in the Papatoetoe/Māngere area Biosecurity NZ said today in a media release "We need community help to make sure we successfully find and eradicate any further fruit flies that may be present in the area," Biosecurity New Zealand Commissioner North Mike Inglis said Inglis yesterday said while the fruit fly poses no human health risk there would be an economic cost to the horticulture industry if it were allowed to establish here Biosecurity NZ staff are laying more traps in the area and giving out information to households "There have been 12 previous fruit fly incursions in New Zealand which we have successfully eradicated so we have a very strong and detailed operational plans to guide our work," he said "The rules now in place prohibit moving fruit and vegetables out of a specified controlled area around where the fruit fly was found." The controlled area is made up of two zones: Zone A has a 200m perimeter with 198 properties No whole fresh fruit and vegetables – excluding leafy vegetables and soil-free root vegetables – can be moved outside Zone A and residents have been advised of their location Zone B covers a 1500m area and is made up of 5470 properties All fruit and vegetables grown within Zone B cannot be moved out of the controlled area Residents in Zone B are free to move commercially purchased fruit and vegetables home-grown produce waste and garden waste must be disposed of in Biosecurity New Zealand bins A detailed map of the controlled area and descriptions of the boundaries and rules in place can be found here. Inglis said the legal controls are "an important precaution" while an investigation is underway to determine whether other fruit flies are present in the area "Should there be any more flies out there this will help prevent their spread out of the area," he said "We are working closely with our Government Industry Agreement partners in the horticultural industry We all appreciate this will be inconvenient for the many people living in and around the controlled area "It is likely the restrictions will be in place for at least two weeks." Signs will also be put in place notifying people of the restrictions and marking the controlled area boundaries call MPI’s Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66 but there would be an economic cost to the horticulture industry if it were allowed to establish here The movement of fruit and vegetables in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe is under restrictions following the discovery of a single Oriental fruit fly in the area A detailed map of the controlled area and descriptions of the boundaries and rules in place can be found here. Inglis said the legal controls are "an important precaution" while an investigation is underway to determine whether other fruit flies are present in the area. "Should there be any more flies out there, this will help prevent their spread out of the area," he said. "We are working closely with our Government Industry Agreement partners in the horticultural industry. We all appreciate this will be inconvenient for the many people living in and around the controlled area, but following these directions is a critical precaution to protect our horticultural industries, home gardens and our New Zealand way of life. Fruit fly found in Auckland prompts Biosecurity NZ investigationThe fruit fly poses no human health risk but Biosecurity NZ says there would be an economic cost to the horticulture industry if it were allowed to establish here Signs will also be put in place notifying people of the restrictions and marking the controlled area boundaries. To report suspected finds of fruit fly, call MPI’s Pest and Diseases Hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Owner prosecuted after dog starves to death SPCA inspectors found evidence suggesting Mike had been tethered to the same spot "for an extended period" 40 mins ago 50 mins ago 52 mins ago 30 mins ago A biosecurity operation is underway in Auckland's Papatoetoe after a single male Oriental fruit fly was discovered in a surveillance trap in a suburban backyard Biosecurity New Zealand commissioner Mike Inglis said the fruit fly poses no human health risk "Checks of the other 187 traps in the Papatoetoe/Māngere area did not find any fruit flies in them," he said our previous experience with the successful eradication of several different types of fruit fly is that we might find other insects look for any others and eradicate them." He said the capture of a single male does not mean we have an outbreak while we do our checks for any other fruit flies we need community help to prevent any possible spread Inglis said legal restrictions would be put in place on the movement of fruit and vegetables out of the area where the fruit fly was found "We will be ramping up trapping and testing with daily checks in a 200-metre zone from the original find and three daily testing in a second zone out to 1500m," Inglis said There have been 12 incursions of different fruit fly in Auckland and Northland since 1996 Inglis said the latest find demonstrates the benefit and effectiveness of MPI's lure-based surveillance trapping network of 7878 traps and the biosecurity system "Instructions about these controls and the exact area affected will be issued by midday Sunday once we have completed an initial investigation we ask that people who live and work in the suburb not take any whole fresh fruit and vegetables out of your property." Inglis said Biosecurity New Zealand has among the strictest controls in the world for the importation of fruit and checks at the border The most likely way that fruit flies can arrive in New Zealand is on fresh fruit and vegetables It was the first sign of a follow-up to Lorde's previous album, 2021's Solar Power. Her other albums were 2013's Pure Heroine and 2017's Melodrama. Last year, she collaborated with British singer Charli XCX on a remix of Girl, so confusing — on a re-release of the Grammy award-winning Brat. Virgin is Lorde's fourth studio album. Kim Kardashian thought she was going to be raped and killed when criminals broke into her bedroom in central Paris, tied her up and stole more than US$6 million in jewellery. More than eight years later, 10 people will go on trial in Paris over the robbery, abduction and kidnapping of the media personality and the concierge of the residence where she was staying during Paris Fashion Week the night of October 2, 2016. Kardashian’s lawyers said she will testify in person at the trial starting Monday and scheduled to run through May 23. "Ms Kardashian is reserving her testimony for the court and jury and does not wish to elaborate further at this time," they said. "She has great respect and admiration for the French justice system and has been treated with great respect by the French authorities. "She wishes the trial to proceed in an orderly fashion, in accordance with French law and with respect for all parties to the case." In interviews and on her family’s reality TV show, Kardashian has described being terrified as robbers pointed a gun at her. In a 2020 appearance on David Letterman’s Netflix show, she tearfully recalled thinking: "This is the time I’m going to get raped. I’m like, ‘What is happening? Are we gonna die? Just tell them I have children. I have babies, I have a husband, I have a family.'" Twelve people were originally expected in the defendants’ box. One of them has died, and another is seriously ill and can't be tried. According to the investigation, five of the 10 defendants were present at the scene of the robbery. The French press has dubbed them The Granddad Robbers because the main defendants are elderly and have careers as bank robbers with long criminal records. Kardashian told investigators she was taken to a bathroom next to her bedroom and placed in the bathtub. Her attackers fled on bicycles or on foot and she managed to free herself by removing the tape from her hands and mouth. She had also removed the tape from her feet and rushed to her stylist’s room. She called her sister Kourtney to tell her about the theft. Shortly afterwards, Kardashian told investigators that she had not been injured. She filed a complaint, adding that she wanted to leave France as soon as possible to be reunited with her children. According to her testimony and that of the concierge, at least one of the suspects had a handgun, with which he threatened the victims. The gangsters stole many pieces of jewellery, including a ring of great value, estimated to be worth more than US$6 million (NZ$10 million). Only one piece of jewellery — a diamond cross on platinum that was lost during the suspects' escape — has been recovered. Two of the accused have partially confessed to the crime, as their DNA was found at the crime scene. The alleged ringleader, 68-year-old Aomar Aït Khedache, is one of two suspected robbers who allegedly entered the apartment. Nicknamed "Old Omar", his genetic profile was found on the tape used to gag Kardashian. He left the hotel on a bicycle, as did two other robbers, then met his son, who was waiting for him in a parked car at a nearby train station. The second robber said he tied up the concierge with cables but did not go up to Kardashian’s apartment. Yunice Abbas, 71, said he acted as a lookout in the ground-floor reception area, making sure the escape route was clear. He said he was unarmed and did not personally threaten Kardashian, but admitted he shared responsibility for the crime. Abbas was arrested in January 2017 and spent 21 months in prison before being released under judicial supervision. In 2021, he co-authored a French-language book titled I Sequestered Kim Kardashian. Didier Dubreucq, 69, known as "Blue Eyes", is the second alleged robber suspected of entering the flat. He denies any involvement, although he was filmed by CCTV cameras and numerous telephone contacts with the other co-defendants show his involvement, according to the investigation. The other defendants are suspected of providing information about Kardashian’s presence in the apartment. Others are accused of playing a role in the resale of the jewellery in Antwerp, Belgium. First-time nominees Chubby Checker, Joe Cocker and Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — in a class that also includes pop star Cyndi Lauper, the hip-hop pioneers Outkast, the rock duo the White Stripes and grunge masters Soundgarden. Salt-N-Pepa, the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status, and the late singer-songwriter Warren Zevon will get the Musical Influence Award. The late record producer Thom Bell, pianist Nicky Hopkins and bassist Carol Kaye will each get the Musical Excellence Award. The late Cocker, who sang at Woodstock and was best known for his cover of The Beatles’ With a Little Help From My Friends, had the backing of Billy Joel, Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top and Pete Thomas, a member of Elvis Costello & The Attractions, who argued that Cocker is "about as rock and roll as it gets". Soundgarden — with the late Chris Cornell as singer — get into the Hall on their third nomination. They follow two other grunge acts in the Hall — Nirvana and Pearl Jam. Bad Company get in having become radio fixtures with such arena-rock staples as Feel Like Makin’ Love, Can’t Get Enough and Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy. The Ahmet Ertegun Award — given to nonperforming industry professionals who had a major influence on music — will go to Lenny Waronker, a former head of Warner Bros. Records who signed Prince and R.E.M., and had a part in records from Madonna, Randy Newman, the Doobie Brothers, Rickie Lee Jones, Paul Simon and Gary Clark Jr. Some nominees that didn't get in this year included Mariah Carey, Phish, Billy Idol, Joy Division/New Order, Maná, the Black Crowes and Oasis. Checker’s recording of The Twist, and subsequent Let’s Twist Again are considered among the most popular songs in the history of rock 'n' roll. The 83-year-old has expressed frustration that he hadn't been granted entry before, including telling the AP in 2014: "I don’t want to get in there when I’m 85 years old. I’ll tell them to drop dead, so you better do it quick while I’m still smiling." Lauper rose to fame in the 1980s with hits such as Time After Time and Girls Just Want To Have Fun and went on to win a Tony Award for Kinky Boots. OutKast, made up of André 3000 and Big Boi, have six Grammys and a reputation for pushing the boundaries of hip-hop. The White Stripes — made up of Jack White and Meg White — were indie darlings in the early 2000s with such songs as Seven Nation Army. Artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before they’re eligible for induction. The induction ceremony will take place in Los Angeles this fall. Nominees were voted on by more than 1200 artists, historians and music industry professionals. The selection criteria include "an artist’s impact on other musicians, the scope and longevity of their career and body of work, as well as their innovation and excellence in style and technique". Last year, Mary J. Blige, Cher, Foreigner, A Tribe Called Quest, Kool & The Gang, Ozzy Osbourne, Dave Matthews Band and singer-guitarist Peter Frampton were inducted. Manukau CityBy negotiation31403m²Motivated Vendor-Unlock the PotentialStep into an exciting opportunity with this classic 3 bedroom home Whether you're a first-home buyer ready to roll up your sleeves or an investor searching for your next project you'll find a practical layout with good bones The kitchen and bathroom are ready for an update—imagine the value you can add with a modern renovation a generous decking area extends your living space • Sunny decking area perfect for outdoor living Opportunities like this don't come around often Whether you're looking to step onto the property ladder or add value for future rewards See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Manukau CityAsking price $939,500314521m²Affordable Freehold Home in PapatoetoeWe are proud to present this beautifully kept 3-bedroom freestanding home on a spacious 521 sqm (more or less) freehold section or savvy investors and all those Pet friendly people Situated on a spacious section this property offers big sunny lounge with equal size conservatory The ideal floor plan offers three double bedrooms You and your family will be surprised by the amount of space for entertaining and the ample play area surrounding the property Excellent street frontage with abundant off-street parking thanks to the current owner with their recent refurbishments this home is ready for a family to move in and enjoy this home is only minutes from the Papatoetoe Town Centre within walking distance of public transport the best local schools like Kedgley Intermediate School Aorere College & Papatoetoe West School are few minutes away This is an ideal opportunity for first home buyers or investors looking for a lock-up-and-leave property with a brilliant rental yield at an affordable price in a sought-after area See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Police are investigating after an unexplained death in Matawaka Lane Police are investigating an unexplained sudden death in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe this evening A police spokesperson said emergency services were called to Matawaka Lane about 6.30pm “A scene examination is due to be carried out as part of ongoing inquiries.” Sign up to The Daily H a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday A South Auckland business had its shopfront wrecked yesterday morning before a man wandered into the building and stole a $52 cake Police said the store was first damaged about 1.50am on Monday apparently in some kind of collision involving a vehicle that left the area with one then entering and stealing a cheesecake and a computer Owner of The Cheesecake Shop on East Tāmaki Rd told the Herald the cake stolen was a caramel glaze mudcake It is described on the shop’s website as “our famous caramel mudcake coated with a premium caramel glaze and finished with an exquisite Belgian chocolate collar flickered with golden hints” Lala said he had supplied police with security camera footage which he said had shown an adult man breaking in The damage to the shopfront would be covered by Lala’s landlord He said he had missed out on hours of trading yesterday morning and did not know how much the damage would cost He would not give any further details other than repeating he was pleased no cash or baking equipment was taken Modern & Move-in Ready!Located in the sought-after Golden Circle of Papatoetoe this brand-new standalone home offers convenience It combines a practical layout with quality craftsmanship and stylish design features throughout bringing a touch of modern living to everyday life you’ll find four generously sized bedrooms including a master with its own ensuite and a separate family bathroom The ground floor features a light-filled open-plan living area designed for seamless living and entertaining A guest toilet downstairs and internal access to a single garage provide added ease and functionality This well-connected central location puts everyday essentials close at hand Families will value the zoning for Papatoetoe Central School and Papatoetoe High School – with the primary and high schools just a short walk away If you're after a brand-new home in a prime Papatoetoe location Contact us today to arrange a private viewing or visit us during open home times NOTE: Photos used in this advertisement are from Lot 1 of a similar design and layout and may differ slightly from the actual Lot 4 property See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson SectionsShowsVideoPodcastsWinMenuLIVE NOW PMN Niue531 PINiu FMLatest bulletinPMN NewsEke Panuku Auckland Development's future vision for Old Papatoetoe A South Auckland suburb's major redevelopment is nearing completion Eke Panuku - Auckland Council's development arm - is redeveloping the South Auckland suburb Local Democracy Reporting recently visited the area after reporting on the changes in October 2024. Deputy chair of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and resident Vi Hausia said he is excited about the project being almost complete. Although locals have told LDR they welcome the changes, the project has disrupted the streets. Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia spoke about a new road extension being created to Cambridge Terrace. "There'll be a new road there, directly linking up to the car park where New World is, and a proper road will come. At the moment, it's just car-park grade, but a proper street will be created to link into Wallace Road." Regarding the new housing developments, Apulu says Auckland has not grown upwards for a long time. Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia and deputy chair Vi Hausia are excited about the changes as Old Papatoetoe’s redevelopment nears completion. Photo/PMN News/Mary Afemata "It's grown outwards - urban sprawl. And so, a lot of people are used to living on quarter-acre or slightly smaller single-level residential housing." But the council needed to build up, as the city was bursting at the seams, he says. The city's rapid population growth overwhelmed Auckland Council's infrastructure, with more people living further away requiring additional pipes, waste, and sewage systems - all of which cost money, he says. "But ... if we can build upwards, that means more people can live closer to the city and near our public transport routes. "There's going to be bad things that come with intensification, but there's going to be a lot of positives." The upgraded laneway is now more open, greener, and welcoming. Photo/Auckland Council Located next to the Papatoetoe Chambers building, the upgraded laneway runs from the Civic Plaza on St George Street to the Wallace Road car park and Piko Toetoe development. The project is mostly complete and open to the public. Final touches are underway, including painting a new Mana Whenua-designed mural and the final planting planned for autumn. Cambridge Terrace extension (off Puhinui Road) The Cambridge Terrace extension is under construction and is expected to be completed by mid-2025. This project will connect Cambridge Terrace to Stadium Lane and Wallace Road, improving access for vehicles and pedestrians to the Allan Brewster Leisure Centre and Stadium Reserve. Wider footpaths, safe crossing points, and a separated cycle lane coming to Cambridge Terrace. Photo/Auckland Council The plans include wider footpaths, safe crossing points, a separated cycle lane, and a low-speed street design, aiming to improve access and encourage increased use of Stadium Reserve. Stadium Reserve (just off Tavern Lane, behind New World Papatoetoe) This is an artist’s impression of what the Stadium Reserve playground will look like when it’s finished. Photo/Auckland Council Alongside these public projects, private developments are adding more homes to the area, particularly with the Piko Toetoe development on Tavern Lane. The project will feature a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom terraced homes and a pathway connecting the main street and Stadium Reserve. Two-, three-, and four-bedroom terraced homes are included in the development. Photo / Auckland Council Manukau CityBy negotiation428465m²ACT FAST – Vendors Need Action NowHELP – we’ve outgrown our home and with extended family coming we urgently need to upsize well-loved home is ready for you—but it won’t stay on the market for long Nestled on a 465m² (more or less) freehold site this 176m² (more or less) brick and tile beauty offers the perfect balance of comfort or looking for a spacious haven for your family you’re welcomed into a spacious entertainment lounge complete with heat pumps to keep you cozy year-round The modern kitchen boasts a quality stone benchtop seamlessly connecting to a separate dining area — creating an open inviting space for gatherings and everyday living and guest toilet round off the lower level with convenience and functionality Upstairs offers a private retreat for the whole family A separate common bathroom with a relaxing bathtub ensures comfort and practicality Location is everything — and this home delivers you’ll enjoy quick and easy access to key destinations Shopping is a breeze with Manukau Supa Centre and Westfield Mall nearby while close proximity to Puhinui Train Station ensures effortless commuting offering privacy and security — perfect for children and pets ensures there’s room for boats and extra toys for the whole family and guests alike Make an offer today before someone else does Call now to arrange a viewing and secure this home before it's gone See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson Manukau CityBy negotiation422744m²Spacious 4-Bedroom Home Prime Papatoetoe LocationNestled on one of Papatoetoe’s most sought-after streets this well-maintained 4-bedroom residence offers the ultimate combination of space Designed to accommodate large or extended families and a double internal-access garage—perfect for those seeking both functionality and style • Spacious 4 Bedrooms – Includes a luxurious master suite with an ensuite and walk-in wardrobe • 2.5 Bathrooms – Stylishly designed with quality fittings • Open-Plan Living & Dining – A light-filled space that flows effortlessly to the outdoor area • Expansive living areas—a spacious lounge functional kitchen with plenty of storage and bench space • Fully Fenced Backyard – Perfect for entertaining • Prime location—situated in a top-tier Papatoetoe street This spacious and inviting home is perfect for growing families or those simply needing extra space in a highly desirable neighborhood See this listing on Barfoot & Thompson we can approve your home improvement loan quickly and get your renovation started.