29 Oct 2026
just now
31 views
Gisborne City and 10,000ha of some of the region’s most productive land are now better protected from flooding, following the completion of the Waipaoa Flood Control Scheme, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says. “The people of Tairāwhiti can feel proud of what has been achieved here. Since 2019, approximately 64km of stopbanks along both sides of Waipaoa River have been widened and raised, providing a higher level of protection designed to withstand a one-in-100-year flood event,” Mr Jones says.
30 Mar 2026
7 months ago
1025 views
Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard announced the lifting of Oriental fruit fly controls in Papatoetoe following a swift response and no further detections since early March. The rigorous biosecurity system, including pre-arrival fruit treatment, border checks, and surveillance trapping, along with community cooperation, was crucial in preventing a damaging infestation. Although the response concludes, the national fruit fly surveillance programme with nearly 8,000 traps remains active to protect New Zealand’s horticultural sector.
25 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1186 views
The completion of Te Waihekeora Reservoir in Northland, managed by Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust, will significantly boost horticulture and job opportunities in the region. The reservoir, opened by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones, will unlock over 1000ha of land for horticulture, with potential for expansion through the Kaipara pipeline. This water infrastructure project aims to enhance water security, support horticultural development, stimulate economic growth, and supply water to key local users, contributing to the region's economic prosperity and the government's goals for sustainable growth in food and fibre exports.