National fuel plan updated amid global upheaval; Severe weather closes roads, causes flooding in Bay of Plenty; Heinz Wattie's confirms closure of four NZ sites
Government updates national fuel plan amid global upheaval
The Government has updated New Zealand's national fuel plan, as uncertainty around fuel supply due to the war in the Middle East continues.
The updated plan, announced by Finance Minister Nicola Willis, outlined "four clear phases" that responded "proportionately" to the risks to New Zealand’s fuel security.
“The plan is designed to keep fuel flowing where it matters most, relying on market settings wherever possible, and only stepping in further if supply is genuinely at risk,” Willis said.
Weather: Cars swamped by floodwaters in Tauranga, roads closed across Bay of Plenty
A subtropical storm brought large downpours and strong winds to much of the country overnight.
States of Emergency have been declared for the Far North and Whangārei districts for seven days in response to the severe weather.
Some Kaitāia residents were evacuated from their homes by police, FENZ and Civil Defence overnight due to the risk of flooding.
Heinz Wattie’s confirms closure of four New Zealand sites, about 300 jobs to go
Heinz Wattie’s has confirmed it will close manufacturing sites in Christchurch, Dunedin and Auckland, along with frozen packing lines in Hastings, a move expected to result in the loss of about 300 jobs nationwide.
The decision today followed a formal consultation process with staff and unions and means the company exits its frozen vegetables, coffee and dips businesses in New Zealand.
"After careful consideration and analysis of proposed suggestions, we have reached the conclusion that closing these sites and exiting these categories is the only way forward for the long‑term viability of the business," said managing director Andrew Donegan.
Watch: Practical tips to stretch your tank of petrol as prices soar
The AA’s Ryan Bos shares advice on saving gas - one recommendation starts before you even get in the car.
ONE SHARPIE TURN
During a Cabinet meeting discussing the war in Iran, US President Donald Trump interjected by holding up a custom-made black and gold Sharpie and offering a long story about how his preferred marker came to be a White House fixture.
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