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RNZ

Taranaki Police Retreat After Being Surrounded at Car Meet | RNZ News

by James Carter Senior News Editor February 23, 2026

written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Oaonui, Taranaki – A South Taranaki District councillor has expressed her dismay following an incident early Saturday morning where a “hostile” group of people surrounded a police vehicle at a car meet, forcing officers to retreat. The incident, which occurred at Kina Road in Oaonui, involved between 50 and 100 people engaging in dangerous driving behaviour, including burnouts, and prompted a response from police.

The incident highlights growing concerns about antisocial road use in the region. Even as police were conducting an operation aimed at deterring such activity, officers found themselves facing a confrontational situation. Area Commander Inspector Mark Miller commended the officers’ decision-making, stating they acted appropriately by prioritizing safety and gathering evidence.

Coastal ward councillor Janet Fleming described the behaviour as “disgusting,” emphasizing that such actions have no place in the South Taranaki community. “I’m pretty disgusted that these young people have chosen to do this and the fact that they intimidated the police officer who felt threatened. Action needs to be taken and I trust that those people will be held accountable,” she said.

A video of the encounter, posted on YouTube, shows a police car reversing away from a crowd, with some individuals pursuing the vehicle. The YouTube video, which has circulated online, provides visual evidence of the tense situation. Inspector Miller confirmed that three police cars were present at the scene, despite only one being visible in the widely shared footage.

Police initially responded to reports of antisocial road users gathering at Kina Road around 1:00 AM on Saturday. According to police statements, officers initially attempted to engage with the crowd but were met with a “hostile” response, leading them to adopt a monitoring position to collect information. Inspector Miller later clarified that, to his understanding, officers did not feel directly threatened, but made a tactical decision to gain a better vantage point.

“From what I’m seeing in the footage, it’s really an example of good decision making by the officers,” Inspector Miller stated. “They were approached by up to 20 people. They made the decision to pull back from that and seize up a position where they had a wider view.” He added that the officers were able to gather footage that will assist in identifying those involved in the illegal activity.

During the operation, police issued nine infringement notices related to driver license and other offenses, and one vehicle was prohibited from being used on the road. Breath screening tests were also conducted, with no drivers found to be over the legal limit. Police are now reviewing dashcam footage, cellphone videos, and social media content to identify and prosecute those responsible for the dangerous driving.

The gathering reportedly began in the western suburbs of Novel Plymouth before moving down State Highway 45 into South Taranaki. Police are appealing to the public for any additional footage of the events that transpired on Friday night and Saturday morning. They encourage anyone with information to contact them via 111 for immediate incidents or 105 for reporting after the fact.

Councillor Fleming expressed concern over the lack of police presence in rural settlements, stating, “We’d always like to have more police officers, yes, but you know they need to have a life as well, so… yeah we’d always like to notice more offices in small rural settlements.” She also questioned the motivations of those involved, suggesting that the funds spent on vehicles and fuel could be better allocated elsewhere.

The incident has prompted a wider discussion about the need for increased enforcement and preventative measures to address antisocial road behaviour in the Taranaki region. Police have confirmed they will continue to investigate the incident and take appropriate action against those involved. RNZ reported on the incident, highlighting the concerns raised by both police and local officials.

Authorities are urging the public to report any instances of dangerous driving or illegal gatherings to ensure the safety of all road users. The focus remains on identifying those responsible for the reckless behaviour displayed at the Oaonui car meet and holding them accountable for their actions.

What comes next is a thorough investigation by Taranaki Police, utilizing the collected footage and public appeals for information. The outcome of this investigation will likely shape future policing strategies for similar events in the region. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments below.

February 23, 2026 0 comments

Health

NZ Bone Marrow Registry: Māori & Pacific Donors Urgently Needed | RNZ

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health February 23, 2026

written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

A critical shortage of bone marrow donors from Māori and Pacific Island communities is prompting urgent calls for increased registration in New Zealand. The New Zealand Bone Marrow Donor Registry is actively seeking donors to facilitate six patients currently awaiting potentially life-saving transplants, highlighting a significant disparity in representation within the global donor pool.

While over 40 million bone marrow donors are registered worldwide, only approximately 6,000 identify as Māori and 3,000 as Pacific Island, according to the New Zealand Bone Marrow Donor Registry. This underrepresentation underscores the importance of ancestry in finding suitable matches, as tissue type is inherited. When relatives are not a match, a donor from the same ethnic background offers the best chance of success.

The need for greater diversity in the registry is deeply personal for many, including Keri Topperwien (Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Porou), who lost her three-year-old son, Chace, to acute myeloid leukemia in 2012. Following her son’s passing, Topperwien and her husband established the Dream Chaser Foundation, a charity dedicated to supporting children battling cancer. She has develop into a vocal advocate for increasing Māori and Pacific Island donor numbers.

“I think people just don’t know about it,” Topperwien explained, noting that awareness is a significant barrier. “Unless it’s intimately in your life, it’s hard to understand… there’s too a lot of old school myths around the process of donating bone marrow, so that can be scary for some people.” She emphasized that advancements in technology have made the donation process far less invasive than many believe.

Bone marrow, crucial for producing blood cells, can be extracted through several methods, including leukapheresis – a process where stem cells are collected from the blood – or through a needle extraction from the pelvic hip bone. Umbilical cord blood is another source of stem cells used in transplants.

Topperwien also acknowledged that cultural beliefs can sometimes discourage participation. “There’s always cultural hesitation, perhaps understanding how it works and you know the sacredness of the body and taking body fluid from yourself to another,” she said. However, she believes framing the process through the lens of whakapapa – genealogy – can be effective. “We usually frame it through whakapapa because if you are matched with someone, then somewhere along the line, your genetic makeup has overlapped or crossed over, so here’s that nice connection. When you start framing it like that and talking to people about the fact that only Māori can save Māori, it takes the layers of fear and uncertainty away and people start to engage with the topic a lot more comfortably.”

The Dream Chaser Foundation actively works to raise awareness about bone marrow donation within these communities. Topperwien stated that her late son remains the driving force behind their efforts. “We know first-hand the desperation of not having a bone marrow match anywhere in the world for our son,” she said. “If we can just save one life, then all the effort is worth it.”

The urgency of the situation is further highlighted by the case of Te Waarakihi Hooper Felise, a nine-year-old boy recently diagnosed with aplastic anaemia. As reported by Teaonews, Te Waarakihi requires a bone marrow transplant, but a fully matched donor has yet to be found. His family is actively appealing for more Māori and Pacific Island individuals to register as potential donors.

The New Zealand Blood Service, which manages the New Zealand Bone Marrow Donor Registry, established the registry specifically to address the smaller donor pool available to Māori and Pacific Islanders. The registry website provides information on how to become a donor and emphasizes the importance of ethnic diversity in improving transplant outcomes.

Looking ahead, continued efforts to raise awareness and address cultural sensitivities will be crucial in expanding the donor pool and providing hope for patients in need of life-saving bone marrow transplants. The New Zealand Bone Marrow Donor Registry will continue its recruitment drives, focusing on engaging with Māori and Pacific Island communities to ensure equitable access to this vital treatment option.

What are your thoughts on this important issue? Share your comments below and help spread awareness by sharing this article.

Disclaimer: This article provides informational content about health and medicine and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.

February 23, 2026 0 comments

world

NZ Election 2024: Immigration Debate Heats Up Over India Trade Deal & Ratcliffe Comments

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief February 22, 2026

written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

A recent statement by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a billionaire and co-owner of Manchester United, has sparked significant controversy and debate as immigration emerges as a key issue ahead of upcoming elections in the UK and Novel Zealand. Ratcliffe claimed during an interview that the UK has been “colonised by immigrants,” citing a population increase from 58 million in 2020 to 70 million today. He warned that the current Labour government, led by Sir Keir Starmer, lacks the courage to address the challenges posed by rising immigration and the increasing number of people reliant on state benefits.

His remarks have generated headlines and discussions, particularly as they coincide with a rising anti-immigration sentiment linked to political movements. Several billionaire figures, including Ratcliffe, have previously supported Brexit and are now backing Nigel Farage’s new political party, Reform, which is gaining traction in opinion polls. Notably, Ratcliffe’s claims have already faced scrutiny, with Sky News pointing out discrepancies in his population figures, estimating the true growth to be about 10 million lower than he asserted. A fact check by the BBC indicated that only approximately 6.5 million Britons currently receive benefits, contradicting Ratcliffe’s figure of 9 million.

Political Context and Reactions

The backlash against Ratcliffe’s comments has been swift. Critics, including Starmer, have labeled his statements as “offensive and wrong,” emphasizing the UK’s identity as a proud, tolerant, and diverse nation. Many commentators have noted that Ratcliffe’s own decision to relocate to Monaco for tax reasons complicates his position on immigration, especially given that many Manchester United players and fans are immigrants or children of immigrants.

Barney Ronay, a sportswriter for The Guardian, remarked that Ratcliffe’s comments seem to serve a dual purpose: to galvanize support for the Reform party while also positioning himself favorably within a business landscape that could benefit from a more hardline immigration policy. The current political climate, particularly with the proposed free trade agreement with India, has further heightened immigration discussions in New Zealand, where the anti-immigration One Nation party is also polling strongly.

Growing Immigration Concerns in New Zealand

In New Zealand, immigration has become a contentious political topic as well, particularly in light of the recent free trade agreement with India. Winston Peters, leader of NZ First, has criticized the agreement, claiming it could allow thousands of immigrants to enter the country and take opportunities from New Zealanders. Peters has publicly stated that the truth regarding immigration is not being told, suggesting it poses significant risks to the local populace.

Debate surrounding this issue has intensified, as polling indicates that only 5% of respondents identified immigration as a top concern, yet the media coverage has incited considerable backlash and prejudice, particularly against Indian immigrants. Local alternative media outlets have echoed sentiments of cultural dilution and replacement theory, raising alarms about the impacts of immigration on New Zealand’s social fabric.

Implications for Future Political Discourse

The ongoing conversations about immigration are expected to become even more pronounced as both the UK and New Zealand approach their respective elections. Political figures like Peters are already positioning themselves to capitalize on fears surrounding immigration. This political maneuvering is likely to shape narratives in the media and public discourse, as parties seek to differentiate their stances on immigration policy.

Experts are urging caution, highlighting that while skilled migration is essential for economic growth, the framing of immigration as a threat can lead to divisive and harmful rhetoric. The demographic challenges both countries face, including declining birth rates and an aging population, underscore the necessity for a balanced approach to immigration that recognizes its contributions to society.

As immigration continues to rise in the political spotlight, it remains crucial for journalists and media outlets to discern fact from fiction, providing clear and accurate information to the public. The evolving landscape will likely demand that politicians articulate not only their positions on immigration but also the rationale behind them, especially in light of demographic changes and economic needs.

the discussions surrounding immigration will play a pivotal role in shaping election outcomes and future policies. Stakeholders from both sides must engage in constructive dialogue to ensure that immigration remains a topic addressed with nuance and empathy, rather than one that incites fear, and division.

As these debates unfold, readers are encouraged to share their thoughts and perspectives on immigration and its impact on society, fostering a constructive dialogue in the community.

February 22, 2026 0 comments

Entertainment

Taranaki Exhibition Gives Voice to Eels & Native Freshwater Species | RNZ

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor February 21, 2026

written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

A groundbreaking exhibition opening in New Plymouth, Taranaki, is offering a unique perspective on New Zealand’s freshwater ecosystems, giving voice – literally – to native species like tuna (eels), īnanga, and kōaro (whitebait). Whiria ko te iwi tuna, a four-year collaborative project, immerses audiences in the hidden world beneath the surface of Te Whanganui, a central Taranaki stream, through evocative underwater footage and meticulously recorded soundscapes. The exhibition aims to foster a deeper understanding of these vital waterways and the creatures that inhabit them, even as also highlighting ongoing concerns about their protection.

The project, spearheaded by artist collective Toiaa Taiao – comprised of Tihikura Hohaia, Alex Monteith, and Maree Sheehan – isn’t simply about showcasing the beauty of these environments. It’s a direct response to what the artists describe as ongoing legislative failures that have enabled the exploitation of waterways and undermined the authority of local Māori communities in enacting kaitiakitanga, or guardianship, over their natural resources. The exhibition, opening February 28th at the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery, seeks to position these species not as passive elements of the ecosystem, but as active agents with their own inherent sovereignty.

What sets this exhibition apart is its innovative approach to representation. “This project marks the first time the voices of tuna from Te Whanganui have been recorded and made audible as voices in their own right,” explains Maree Sheehan, a composer and sound artist recognized as Māori Researcher of the Year by the Royal Society of New Zealand in 2024. By amplifying these previously unheard communications, the artists aim to challenge conventional perceptions and encourage a more empathetic connection with these often-overlooked creatures.

The exhibition is further enriched by a newly published essay from Rachel Buchanan (Taranaki iwi, Te Ātiawa, Taranaki Whānui ki Te Upoko o Te Ika). Buchanan’s work situates Whiria ko te iwi tuna within a long “whakapapa of care and protest” in Taranaki, acknowledging the generations of hapū and community-led efforts dedicated to protecting the region’s waters from industrial damage and affirming the inseparable link between the land, the water, and its people.

Whiria ko te iwi tuna, a project by Toiaa Taiao, captures the rhythms of life in Te Whanganui stream.

Exploring the Govett-Brewster Collection Alongside New Voices

Alongside Whiria ko te iwi tuna, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery will also be opening Pause, act, void, event on February 28th. This exhibition showcases a dynamic selection of both beloved and newly acquired works from the gallery’s collection. The display is anchored by a large-scale installation by Debra Bustin, which hasn’t been seen at the gallery since 1982, and also features pieces by prominent New Zealand artists including Billy Apple, D Harding, Ralph Hotere, Corita Kent, Tom Kreisler, Ziggy Lever & Lucy Meyle, Peter Peryer, and Pauline Rhodes.

Both exhibitions – Whiria ko te iwi tuna and Pause, act, void, event – will be on display until July 19, 2026, offering an extended opportunity for audiences to engage with these diverse artistic perspectives. The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery continues to position itself as a vital cultural hub, fostering dialogue around environmental stewardship and artistic innovation.

The work presented in Whiria ko te iwi tuna is particularly timely, as discussions around freshwater management and Māori rights continue to gain prominence in New Zealand. By giving a platform to the voices of these often-silenced species, the exhibition encourages a re-evaluation of our relationship with the natural world and a renewed commitment to protecting these precious ecosystems for future generations. The project’s success in recording and amplifying the sounds of tuna represents a significant step in recognizing their agency and advocating for their well-being.

As the exhibitions open, the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery anticipates a strong public response, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the sounds and sights of Te Whanganui and reflect on the broader implications for environmental conservation and cultural preservation. The ongoing dialogue sparked by Whiria ko te iwi tuna promises to contribute meaningfully to the evolving conversation surrounding New Zealand’s waterways and the importance of upholding kaitiakitanga principles.

What comes next will be determined by the public’s engagement with these critical themes and the continued advocacy for the protection of New Zealand’s unique freshwater environments. We encourage you to share your thoughts and reactions to these exhibitions in the comments below.

February 21, 2026 0 comments

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