Commonwealth leaders must stop Sri Lanka hosting key summit

The Commonwealth risks becoming 'irrelevant' if its leaders allow Sri Lanka to become its next host, Amnesty International has said.

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) began in Perth, Australia today, with Sri Lanka due to chair the next summit in 2013 despite an appalling human rights record.

"It's absurd to even consider allowing Sri Lanka to host CHOGM as long as it fails to account for alleged war crimes," said Patrick Holmes, Amnesty International Aotearoa New Zealand’s Chief Executive.

"Today Commonwealth leaders are faced with a choice – reform the Commonwealth so that it can effectively address human rights violations by its members, or risk becoming irrelevant."

Sri Lanka, along with India, is reportedly trying to block the proposal to establish a human rights envoy aimed at making the Commonwealth more effective on human rights.

A report by an advisory group of 11 Commonwealth countries makes over 100 recommendations aimed at reforming the organisation, including bolstering the organisation's ability to tackle violations of its core principles by member states.

The document, which was supposed to be discussed at this weekend's CHOGM, is still officially secret, but leaks suggest it proposes a new human rights monitor.

"Sri Lanka and India's pre-emptive attack on these reforms - before they've even had a chance to be discussed - shows they would have a lot to lose if their human rights records were open to scrutiny," said Holmes.

In the final weeks of Sri Lanka's war with the Tamil Tigers, some 300,000 people were trapped by the fighting in government declared ‘safe zones’. They were deprived of basic facilities and systematically bombarded by the army’s heavy artillery, leaving more than 10,000 dead.

Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa has publicly pledged to resist any international efforts to prosecute Sri Lankan ‘war heroes’.

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Royal succession changes must end all discrimination against Catholics

Green MP Keith Locke says that any changes to the royal succession laws must end all discrimination against Catholics.

British Prime Minister David Cameron has proposed to other nations with Queen Elizabeth as Head of State a change in royal succession law to remove the bias against female heirs and the disqualification on a heir who marries a Catholic. The move, which Mr Cameron is pushing at CHOGM, would require legislative changes in several Parliaments, including New Zealand's.

"The Government should tell Mr Cameron that any reform bill going through our Parliament will also end the prohibition against a Catholic ascending to the throne," said Mr Locke.

"To do otherwise makes a mockery of our Human Rights Act, which prevents discrimination on religious grounds.

"We should ask Mr Cameron to be a little bolder and remove all discrimination against Catholics.

"If that means the Monarch can no longer automatically be head of the British Anglican Church, so be it.

"Of course, all these changes leave more fundamental questions like why our Head of State lives in Britain and why the Head of State is determined by inheritance, rather than by a democratic process.

"We only need to look to Ireland for a good example. The Irish go to the polls today to elect a non-executive president who has limited powers, not dissimilar to those of the British monarch," said Mr Locke

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OCR unchanged at 2.5 percent

The Reserve Bank today left the Official Cash Rate (OCR) unchanged at 2.5 percent.

Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard said: “Domestic activity has continued to expand at only a modest pace despite relatively strong commodity prices. More recently, domestic business confidence has fallen back somewhat. Further ahead, earthquake repairs and reconstruction in Canterbury are still expected to provide significant impetus for demand.

“As foreshadowed at the time of the September Monetary Policy Statement, there is a real risk that the European sovereign debt crisis could cause a further slowing in global activity, putting downward pressure on New Zealand’s commodity export prices. The difficult international market conditions could also result in increased New Zealand bank funding costs over the coming year.

“Annual headline CPI inflation continues to be above the Bank’s 1 to 3 percent target band. That largely reflects the one-off effect of last year’s increase in the rate of GST. September quarter inflation data suggest that, once GST and other one-off influences have passed, underlying inflation is settling near 2 percent.

“Given the ongoing global economic and financial risks, it remains prudent to continue to keep the OCR on hold at 2.5 percent for now. However, if global developments have only a mild impact on the New Zealand economy, it is likely that gradually increasing pressure on domestic resources will require future OCR increases.”

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PM offers condolences to Turkey following quake

Prime Minister John Key has today extended condolences on behalf of the Government and people of New Zealand to Turkey, following the devastating 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Van Province.

“New Zealanders know all too well the suffering and destruction major earthquakes can cause, and our sympathies are with those who are dealing with the aftermath of yesterday’s earthquake,” says Mr Key.

“New Zealand stands by ready to assist Turkey as it moves to recover from this event, and that offer has been made directly to Turkish authorities by the New Zealand Embassy in Ankara.”

Turkish authorities have confirmed 85 people have died as a result of the quake, with a further 400 injured. No New Zealanders are reported to be involved at this stage and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has no New Zealanders registered as being in Van Province.

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PM congratulates All Blacks on RWC victory

Prime Minister John Key today congratulated the All Blacks following their superb victory in the Rugby World Cup final at Eden Park.

“The All Blacks have achieved the ultimate in world rugby - they have won the Rugby World Cup. It is an achievement built on courage, determination, grit and great teamwork.

“These are all values that New Zealanders hold highly and I know Kiwis will be very proud of their team - they are deserving world champions.”

The All Blacks secured the Rugby World Cup with a nail-biting 8-7 victory over France. It is New Zealand’s second title, coming 24 years after the first in 1987.

Mr Key attended the match and said the atmosphere at Eden Park was fantastic from kick-off until long after the final whistle.

“The Rugby World Cup has featured great crowds throughout the six-week long tournament and the final was no different. Fans from both sides ensured the game was played in an atmosphere of great spirit - and we got the perfect ending New Zealanders have long hoped for.

“Congratulations to Richie McCaw, Graham Henry and all of the squad, coaches, support staff and members of the All Blacks family. You have all worked so hard to achieve this and you deserve it.”

Mr Key said New Zealanders had lived up to the ‘stadium of four million’ tag and been good hosts throughout the Rugby World Cup - making it a tournament to remember for so many.

“Congratulations to the All Blacks for a wonderful achievement.”

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Organisers hail success of seventh Rugby World Cup

Tournament organiser Rugby New Zealand 2011 today thanked the people of New Zealand for the way they embraced the seventh Rugby World Cup and contributed to its success.

“New Zealand has done itself proud,” said RNZ 2011 Chairman Brian Roche.

“Rugby fans, even those with a passing interest in the Game have dressed up, painted their faces and turned each match into a true festival of Rugby and our country. Others have gone to Fanzones, enjoyed REAL New Zealand Festival events and given our visitors the best of welcomes.

“We promised a stadium of four million great fans and hosts and without a doubt New Zealand has delivered.

“None of this would have been possible without the passion and dedication of an army of people across New Zealand.

“The Team 2011 volunteers have been at the forefront of our efforts to look after visitors and ensure they left with the best of memories of their time here while also contributing to the successful delivery of 48 matches.

“Through the past six years since we won the bid to host RWC 2011, our partners have worked tirelessly to ensure we created the best platform to deliver on the promises we made in Dublin.

“Today we thank those in central and local government, the NZ 2011 Office, provincial Rugby unions, regional tourism and other industry organisations and of course the staff and management of our own organisation, RNZ 2011. The collective efforts of so many have ensured we have delivered an event all New Zealanders can be proud of and one that enhances our country’s position on the world stage.

“Most importantly from our position as Tournament organiser, we have shown the world that our great, little country can deliver a globally significant event with a host of challenges. We are confident our success stands New Zealand in good stead to attract major events in the future.

“We are proud of our achievements in meeting our ticket revenue target and successfully delivering 48 matches at 12 venues. Last night’s thrilling Final was the icing on the cake of what was already one of the great Rugby World Cups.

“I would also like to thank the IRB, Chairman Bernard Lapasset, CEO Mike Miller and their team at subsidiary Rugby World Cup Ltd for the close cooperation and support they have given us since we won the bid.”

IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset said the seventh Rugby World Cup had been an outstanding success.

“New Zealand 2011 will be remembered as an exceptional Rugby World Cup. It has been a Tournament where New Zealand’s rich culture and heritage has gone hand in hand with Rugby’s tradition and values.

“New Zealanders should be proud of their event. They made it special by embracing the tournament the length and breadth of the country, welcoming all 20 teams and 100,000 international visitors with open arms. It was quite remarkable."

Lapasset also praised the Tournament Organisers and the spirit of close collaboration that has delivered one of the great Rugby World Cups.

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Brian Roche, Martin Snedden and the Rugby New Zealand 2011 team, the New Zealand Rugby Union and the Government for their vision, dedication and hard work in delivering Rugby World Cup 2011 in partnership with the IRB team.

“Their reward is the successful hosting of what will be remembered as one of the great Rugby World Cups, a sporting and operational success.

“New Zealand 2011 has positioned the country as a major event host, a superb tourism destination and a great country. It has also taken our sport to new audiences and has set the bar for future hosts.”

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September a boom month for international visitors

International arrivals into New Zealand in September jumped 26 per cent on the same month last year, resulting in a bumper start to spring tourism.

Statistics New Zealand figures revealed today, show that 74,355 of September arrivals were visiting New Zealand for the Rugby World Cup 2011, more than a third of all arrivals for the month.

The total number of international Rugby World Cup 2011 visitors from July to the end of September now stands around 80,000, but the final total won’t be known until data for October has been collected.

Forecasts previously indicated a total of 95,000 visitors for the event.

The biggest month-on-month change in September came from traditional rugby nations including France , Ireland , South Africa , the United Kingdom and Argentina .

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler said that while the September growth is clearly a result of the rugby, the continued, steady growth seen out of Singapore (up 66.0 per cent), Malaysia (up 36.7 per cent) and China (up 7.6 per cent) demonstrates the importance of the long-term destination game.

“This is a fantastic result for the Rugby World Cup 2011and is well worth celebrating.” says Mr Bowler.

“Growth figures out of Asia this month demonstrate that Tourism New Zealand’s international partnerships and marketing campaigns, along with increases in airline capacity from Jetstar Asia and Air Asia X, are continuing to achieve success.

“Monthly increases from China have also continued, a pattern we expect to see repeated in the coming months with China Southern Airlines increasing flight frequency from three times per week to daily from 1 November.

In the year ended September 2011, 2,548,094 international visitors arrived in New Zealand , 1.2 per cent up the same period last year.

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Greens question seafarer training standards

The Government should investigate the adequacy of Filipino seafarer training, in light of serious concerns raised by the European Commission, said the Green Party today.

The European Commission has threatened to ban Filipino workers from European Union registered ships, following a report by the European Maritime Safety Agency which raised concerns about the level and quality of training for Filipino seafarers.

"Given the tragic consequences that can occur when things go wrong at sea, it is of the utmost importance that our Government ensures that all vessels entering New Zealand waters are crewed by well-trained individuals," said Green Party Co-leader Dr Russel Norman from Tauranga today.

"Considering that the Rena was a flag of convenience ship, crewed by Filipinos - whose training is under question - I hope the Government will consider greater scrutiny and regulation of our coastal shipping vessels and crews.

"The Greens back the adoption of higher standards for coastal shipping that support the use of local crews and ships that know New Zealand waters and hazards," said Dr Norman.

The European Commission reportedly notified the Philippine Government in May 2011 that the Commission would withdraw recognition of Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificates issued by the Philippines, unless the Philippines addressed deficiencies in the country's maritime education, training, and certification system. Without STCW recognition, Filipino workers would be banned from European Union flagged ships.

The Philippine's Labour and Employment Secretary said the Philippines had sent a report to the European commission on August 26, 2011, identifying the corrective actions they had taken. Reports indicate that the European Union Committee on Safer Seas will consider the report and make a final decision.

"The issue is not that the workers are Filipino, but that there are problems with their training. The Green Party supports workers' rights, including the right to adequate training, to ensure that all seafarers are able to operate safely in our waters," Dr Norman said.

"Unfortunately, Filipino seafarers have become fodder in the global race to the bottom to produce and transport goods as cheaply as possible, and could be missing out on the proper training they need and deserve.

"In light of the Rena, and questions about the adequacy of some overseas maritime education and training, the Government needs to consider greater safeguards and standards for New Zealand coastal shipping," said Dr Norman

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80,000 visitors arrive for RWC 2011 by September end

Tournament organiser Rugby New Zealand 2011 (RNZ 2011) today welcomed official figures showing 80,000 visitors from around the world have arrived in the three months to the end of September for Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011).

Statistics New Zealand today released figures showing arrivals in September totalled 74,400, bringing the number of visitors to date since July for the Tournament to 80,000. Most were from Australia, the United Kingdom and France.

The figures do not include arrivals for October which included the last weekend of pool play and the knockout phase which concludes with the Final on Sunday night.

“This is fantastic news and further evidence of the valuable platform this Tournament has created to promote New Zealand to the world,” said RNZ 2011 CEO Martin Snedden.

“Our ticket sales data pointed to overall visitor numbers of 95,000 from over 100 countries and with October’s arrival figures still to come, we are right on track to hit our expected target or possibly exceed it.

“We have seen in the past six weeks that our overseas guests have added hugely to the colour and passion of our match day crowds so these numbers bear out that they have certainly been here boots and all!

“This is also further good news following the achievement of the ticket revenue milestone yesterday of NZ$268.5 million.

“Attracting visitors to New Zealand was a key part of the rationale for holding the seventh Rugby World Cup and a critical payoff for the investment this country has made to make the Tournament a success.

“Visitors are one part of the economic benefit expected from RWC 2011. Their spending on hotels, food, attractions and other services while here is important, but their endorsement of this country is a priceless way of marketing our country to other travellers.

“As we reach the final stages of the Tournament, proof that we are delivering on our objectives, is a wonderful way to mark the end of what has been a wonderful moment in our country’s history.”

Rugby World Cup Limited Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “Rugby World Cup 

is truly a global event attracting visitors from every continent. These outstanding figures not only reflect the enormous prestige of the Tournament, but they also underscore New Zealand’s position as a major tourism destination.

“Rugby World Cup 2011 will live long in the memory of all who travelled from near and far to be a part of an exceptional event that has delivered a winning blend of compelling Rugby and a wonderful nationwide festival of events.”

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British Prime Minister to visit New Zealand

British Prime Minister David Cameron will visit New Zealand next week, Prime Minister John Key announced today.

“I am delighted to be able to welcome David Cameron to New Zealand. His visit gives us an opportunity to demonstrate the strength and maturity of the relationship between the United Kingdom and New Zealand,” Mr Key said.

Mr Cameron will visit New Zealand before attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Perth. His programme will include a formal bilateral meeting with Mr Key, a short visit to Christchurch, and other events which will be advised in coming days.

Mr Key said he was looking forward to having Mr Cameron in New Zealand for what would be an important visit.

“The relationship between New Zealand and the United Kingdom is a very deep one – it is one of our oldest and closest,” Mr Key said.

“We have strong ties between our people and businesses, and a shared outlook on international affairs. This visit will give us an opportunity to celebrate those historical ties and give momentum to the modern relationship which reaches far and wide.”

Mr Key said he looked forward to discussing a wide range of regional and global issues with Mr Cameron, including the economic situation in Europe and around the world.

Further details of Mr Cameron’s visit will be released closer to his arrival next week.

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Rugby World Cup boosts visitor numbers

An influx of visitors for the Rugby World Cup led to a 26 percent increase in visitor arrivals in September 2011, compared with September 2010, Statistics New Zealand said today.

"Rugby World Cup arrivals numbered 74,400 in September, accounting for over one-third of all visitor arrivals during the month," Population Statistics acting manager Deb Potter said. 

"This adds to 4,400 Rugby World Cup arrivals in August and 1,200 in July, giving a total of 80,000 – with October results still to come."

A small proportion of arrival cards did not include the Rugby World Cup question used to identify arrivals for the tournament. As a result, some people may have been missed from the Rugby World Cup count.

The main countries of residence of Rugby World Cup arrivals during the July–September period were:

 Australia (28,700)

 the United Kingdom (12,800)

 France (8,300)

 the United States (3,700)

 South Africa (3,600)

 Ireland (3,400).

Only 62 percent (17,800) of the Rugby World Cup visitors from Australia were Australian citizens. New Zealand citizens accounted for 5,500 of the rugby visitors from Australia, with another 2,000 being British citizens and 1,700 being Irish citizens.

Over two-thirds (69 percent) of Rugby World Cup arrivals were male. The most common age groups were 25–29 years (11,900) and 30–34 years (10,200).

Monthly net migration turns negative again

On a seasonally adjusted basis, there was a net loss of 700 permanent and long-term migrants in September 2011. Monthly net migration had been negative between March and July 2011, following the Christchurch earthquake on 22 February, but was positive in August.

Unadjusted figures showed a net outflow of just over 2,900 migrants to Australia in September 2011, the highest recorded for a September month.

In the year ended September 2011, New Zealand had a net migration gain of just 800 people, down from 13,900 the previous year. The latest figure is the lowest in 10 years, since the net outflow of 1,700 migrants in the September 2001 year.

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Non-wage labour costs rise 4.9 percent

While total labour costs rose 2.4 percent in the year to the June 2011 quarter, non-wage labour costs rose 4.9 percent, Statistics New Zealand said today. 

The increase in the non-wage labour costs component of the labour cost index (LCI) reflected higher workplace accident insurance and superannuation costs. 

The salary and wage rates (including overtime) component, released in August, increased 1.9 percent.

Workplace accident insurance costs were up 27.5 percent in the year to the June 2011 quarter. This rise resulted from increases in ACC levy rates and a 1.9 percent increase in pay rates.

Employers' superannuation costs rose 11.3 percent in the year to the June 2011 quarter. The increase reflects continued growth in employer-subsidised KiwiSaver membership (partly as a result of fuller reporting of KiwiSaver by LCI respondents). Increases in employer contribution rates for some definedbenefit

superannuation schemes also contributed.

Annual leave and statutory holiday costs increased 2.1 percent in the year to the June 2011 quarter. The latest increase is broadly in line with the 1.9 percent rise in salary and wage rates (including overtime).

Other non-wage labour costs (medical insurance, motor vehicles for private use, and low-interest loans) increased 0.9 percent in the year to the June 2011 quarter. 

The cost of medical insurance was up (reflecting higher premiums), while the costs for both motor vehicles for private use and low-interest loans were down. A fall in fringe benefit tax rates on 1 October 2010 had a downward influence.

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MV RENA disaster in New Zealand, shows the evils in substandard shipping and in the Flag of Convenience system used by unscrupulous shipowners

The International Seafarers Action Center (ISAC) Philippines Foundation, laments the tragic incident involving the vessel MV Rena of Liberian registry, which ran aground the Astrolabe Reef at the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand.

The damage to New Zealand’s ecosystem is enormous, with the oil spill that has already claimed the lives of 1,290 birds, 4 other animals, and that has injured seals, marine life and birds.

The trauma, fear and physical sufferings of the mostly Filipino crew on board, who were made to stay on board the tilting ship for six days without rescue, highlights the human and environmental damage that this incident has caused.

This is further worsened by some racist and extreme right elements in New Zealand who blame the national origin of the Filipino crew for the incident, in order to launch a racist attack on the some 20,000 Filipino migrants who are now in New Zealand.

This is an accident that is waiting to happen. Without pre-empting the results of the on going maritime investigation, this incident reveals the half a century old problem of substandard shipping and the use of Flags of Convenience by unscrupulous shipowners to reduce cost and to amass more profit.

The MV Rena is flying the Flag of Convenience of Liberia although the real or beneficial owners are Greek. It is an old and substandard vessel that was built in 1990. For the past 36 months, 50% of inspection for deficiencies resulted in the detention of the vessel. Last July, 21, 2011 it was inspected and detained in Fremantle , Australia for 17 deficiencies.

It is not surprising then, that this vessel would figure, sooner or later, in an accident of this sort. Many incidents involving substandard vessels flying Flags of Convenience tragically led not only to massive oil spills but to the loss of human lives. This is regardless of the color of the skin, or of the racial origins of the officers and men crewing these vessels.

We at ISAC condemn the Flag of Convenience system and the proliferation of substandard ships that is the root of maritime disasters occurring all over the world. We are one with the people of New Zealand who shall be battling the effects of this environmental tragedy for many years to come. 

Finally,we stand in solidarity with the hundreds of thousands of seafarers of all races and nationality who are driven by extreme economic hardships at home and who have no other recourse but to work on substandard ships and Flags of Convenience, undaunted by the serious risks to their lives and limbs.

Oppose the Flag of Convenience system! Ensure decent work for seafarers! Keep our seas safe!

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PHILIPPINE EMBASSY STATEMENT ON THE MV RENA ACCIDENT

Words will never be enough to convey our sadness over the unfortunate maritime accident involving the MV Rena and its detrimental effects on the environment and the community of Tauranga. Like New Zealand, the Philippines greatly values the paramount importance of protecting the environment and the Filipino people fully understand what the people of New Zealand, especially those in the Tauranga communities are going through right now.

The on-going huge operations of Maritime New Zealand and the relevant authorities as well as the active involvement of the affected communities are indeed admirable and exemplary.

Based on the reports of our man on the ground, Philippine Embassy Minister and Consul Giovanni Palec, and the Embassy’s feedback from some members of the Filipino community in Tauranga, the reported negative reactions to the Filipino people there are few and are not reflective of the general sentiments of the public in Tauranga.

We are grateful for the remarks of Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby about the inherent goodness of the Filipinos, some of whom he has worked with in the past and the steps being undertaken to ensure due process in so far as the accountability of the Filipino crew is concerned.

The Philippine Embassy has sent Minister and Consul Giovanni Palec last Wednesday, 12 October and is still in Tauranga right now to look after the welfare of the Filipino crew and the Filipino community as part of the Embassy’s assistance to nationals responsibilities. He has personally met the Filipino crew and Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez has talked to them, who all said that they have been treated kindly and fairly by the New Zealand authorities and that the necessary legal representations have been provided by the shipowner in coordination with their charterer in Tauranga.

We all know that at this time, the case involving the Filipino crew is already with the Court and they are duly represented by their lawyers in the judicial proceedings.

The repatriation of the nineteen (19) Filipino crew members was made after they were interviewed and their statements taken by the relevant authorities of New Zealand.

The Philippine Embassy would like to express its deep appreciation to the Filipino community in Tauranga and other parts of New Zealand for their care, compassion and prayers and for demonstrating the well-known “bayanihan” (togetherness) spirit during these difficult times.

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RWC 2011 ticket revenue target achieved

Tournament organiser Rugby New Zealand 2011 (RNZ 2011) today announced it had achieved its revenue target with two matches still to be played at the seventh Rugby World Cup.

Revenue from ticket sales today surpassed the NZ$268.5 million target set by RNZ 2011 more than two years ago.

RNZ 2011 Chairman Brian Roche said sales this week from the final tranche of tickets to Sunday’s Rugby World Cup 2011 (RWC 2011) Final and tomorrow night’s Bronze Final had pushed revenue to NZ$268.7 million.

Overall 87% of available tickets have now sold.

“Ticket revenue eclipses by more than 11 times the previous largest grossing event in New Zealand history; the 2005 British & Irish Lions. Sunday’s sold out Final alone has generated more than NZ$50 million in revenue, twice that of the Lions’ Tour.

“This is a tremendous achievement and one that all those who have contributed to the success of this Tournament across New Zealand should be proud of. It shows just how strongly New Zealanders have embraced RWC 2011 and that the decision to spread the Tournament around the country was the right one.

“Significantly, we have achieved this against the backdrop of a challenging economic environment and the tragic Christchurch earthquakes.”

RNZ 2011 was formed by the New Zealand Government and host union, the New Zealand Rugby Union in 2006 to deliver RWC 2011.

Rugby World Cup Minister the Hon Murray McCully said it was very pleasing to be in this position before the Tournament had ended.

“Today’s result is a tribute to the hard work of the staff at RNZ 2011 and also 

a tribute to the way New Zealanders have seen the Rugby World Cup as so much more than just a Rugby Tournament.

“It has been a wonderful celebration of New Zealand and proof that this small country can successfully hold a large and complex event like a Rugby World Cup. We could not have wished for a better platform to promote ourselves to the world.”

New Zealand Rugby Union Chairman Mike Eagle said reaching the target underlined how well the country had delivered on the promise made in Dublin in November 2005 when the union won the right to host the seventh Rugby World Cup.

“We promised the IRB a unique Rugby experience where teams and their supporters would be warmly embraced by a stadium of four million.

“Without a doubt we have seen just this over the last six weeks as Rugby fans and even those with a passing interest in the Game up and down the land dressed up, painted their faces, adopted second teams and went to matches to support teams they often had never seen before.

“We hoped RWC 2011 would be a wonderful platform to grow the Game and inspire the next generation of players and it certainly will be.

“Congratulations to Martin Snedden and his team at RNZ 2011 for the thoroughly professional way they have delivered such an outstanding Tournament.”

IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “Achieving the ticket revenue target is another glowing endorsement of a Tournament that will be remembered as one of the great Rugby World Cups. Not just for the action on the pitch and the wonderful way that the whole country has embraced the event, but because of the superb structure, organisation and delivery.

“We are now poised for a thrilling finale with the Bronze Final and Final set to write another memorable chapter in the Rugby World Cup success story. I welcome fans the length and breadth of New Zealand and further afield to enjoy the weekend, enjoy the Rugby and join us in a fitting celebration of what has been a truly exceptional Rugby World Cup.”

The RWC 2011 Final to be played on Sunday night at Eden Park between New Zealand and France is sold out. Around 7,500 tickets are still available for tomorrow night’s Bronze Final between Australia and Wales. These can be purchased online at www.rugbyworldcup.com/tickets and at selected Ticketek outlets

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PHILIPPINE EMBASSY CALLS ON THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY TO HELP IN THE CLEAN-UP OF BEACHES IN TAURANGA

The Philippine Embassy is calling on several Filipino organizations, associations and individuals to join the volunteer groups to clean up oil from polluted beaches in various locations in Tauranga. It is suggested that they form themselves into ‘PINOY BRIGADES’ to demonstrate our time-honoured and well-known spirit of “bayanihan” (volunteerism and coming together) with the communities in the affected areas in the midst of the massive operations to save the environment arising from the unfortunate accident of the MV Rena at the Astrolabe Reef on 5 October 2011.

Filipinos in Tauranga, Hamilton, Auckland, Rotorua, Taupo and other parts in New Zealand may wish to be part of more than 5,000 volunteers who are registered with the Maritime New Zealand.

Information on the requirements and procedures for volunteers can be obtained from telephone number 0800645774. Online registration can be made at www.boprc.govt.nz/oilspillvolunteers/. There is also the Wildlife Response at telephone number 0800333771.

Contact persons regarding this matter at the Philippine Embassy is Minister and Consul Giovanni Palec and Cultural Officer Liza Jane Estalilla who can be reached at telephone numbers (04)4729848, (04)4729921, 0220594697, 0220594700 and email addresses 1stsec-consul@philembassy.org.nz.

"Let’s all continue to show our utmost care, compassion and concern with the people of New Zealand during these very challenging times and in the face of the overwhelming tasks to save the beaches, marine life, birds and the maritime environment of the country. It is during this extremely difficult situation that we Filipinos can help make a distinctive difference in and tangible contributions to the on-going concerted efforts to counter the threats to the seas and landscapes of New Zealand. " Palec added.

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French Team gather ahead of RWC Final

The French Rugby squad took the heat off their Rugby World Cup 2011 Finals build-up with a relaxed day out in Auckland.

The players and management enjoyed a typical Kiwi barbeque lunch at the waterside Riverhead Tavern and a thrilling jet-boat ride on Auckland's Waitemata Harbour.

While experiencing a high-speed blast and sweeping turns the group made the most of their day off from training ahead of their match against the All Blacks this Saturday 23 October.

Fast-footed half-back Dimitri Yachvili says it was a great way to spend their day.

"Obviously we've got a big challenge ahead of us this weekend but the feeling amongst the team is good. It's nice to spend an afternoon together to re-focus," he says.

The French team has been based in Auckland for the majority of the tournament.

Coach Marc Lievremont says they've enjoyed their time in New Zealand's largest city.

"It's important for us to do activities as a team off the field, and today has been fantastic. Auckland has been an excellent base for the squad," he says.

Nestled on the shores of Auckland's Waitemata Harbour the Riverhead Tavern is New Zealand's oldest riverside tavern and a popular destination for dining.

Auckland Jet Boat Tours is based in the Viaduct Harbour and runs daily adventure trips that combine high-speed thrills with exhilarating speeds of 85 kilometres per hour.

Getting out on the water is one of Auckland's must-do tourism activities. Auckland is affectionately known as the City of Sails and has the highest boat ownership per capita in the world.

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Economic impacts of seismic risk: lessons for Wellington

The recent earthquakes in Canterbury have provided a number of lessons that can be drawn upon to help organisations in Wellington better prepare for seismic events, Reserve Bank Governor Alan Bollard said this morning.


In his opening address entitled Economic impacts of seismic risk: lessons for Wellington, presented to a Rotary Forum held in Wellington, Dr Bollard said Canterbury’s experience had shown that events like major earthquakes have many unpredictabilities and uncertainties.


“Institutions should focus on preparedness, competency, leadership, delegation and resilience rather than detailed plans for specific situations that may not repeat themselves,’ he said.


The Reserve Bank had also noted that earthquakes should not be thought of as a “short sharp event, but rather as a rolling set of shocks with a long period of continuing after-shocks. These can cause ongoing damage to land as well as buildings, continued disruption, delay assessment, and slow reconstruction,” he said.


The Bank prepared itself for such events by assigning key people from each department to support the Bank and its critical business functions should a disruptive event occur. Other preparations included establishing an Auckland office to carry on the Bank’s core functions, should the Wellington office ever become inaccessible.


Dr Bollard also noted that disaster preparedness is necessary and desirable, but not costless. Determining the appropriate balance of such concerns in advance will always be a challenging task, he said.


Following human life and safety concerns, the Bank’s immediate focus after the Canterbury earthquakes had been ensuring essential economic activity would continue.


Dr Bollard said this had been followed by a focus on the soundness of the financial system and the financial health of key economic organisations. Throughout this period the Bank had remained focused on the aim of price stability, and had set policy appropriately to ensure this was achieved over the medium-term.

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Limited tickets for RWC final-RNZ 2011 says

Rugby New Zealand 2011 (RNZ 2011) have announced that a limited number of tickets will be released tomorrow (Wednesday) from 12 noon (NZT) for the Rugby World Cup 2011 Final between New Zealand and France.

There are approximately 900 tickets available in categories A, B and C. This release follows the finalisation of ticket requirements for the two competing teams and their unions.

“This is the last chance for fans to be part of the biggest Rugby match in New Zealand’s history”, said Shane Harmon, RNZ 2011 General Manager, Marketing and Communications.

“The atmosphere on Sunday night will be unlike anything seen before in New Zealand and this is the final opportunity for fans to be able to say ‘I was there’,” said Mr Harmon.

Tickets can be purchased at www.rugbyworldcup.com/tickets or at selected Ticketek outlets and venues.

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Wellington Airport announces new CEO

Wellington Airport is pleased to announce Steve Sanderson as its new Chief Executive Officer.

Steve Sanderson has been the Chief Executive Officer for Queenstown Airport since May 2007.

“After an international search, we welcome Steve as the Airport’s CEO. His extensive background in infrastructure businesses and at Queenstown Airport will be a great asset to the Airport as it moves to deliver on its plans for future growth” said David Newman, Wellington Airport’s Chairman.

Mr Sanderson’s career has predominately been in infrastructure businesses including General Manager NZ/Australia at Powerco Limited, and General Manager at Lyttelton Port Company. He is also currently a Director of Pioneer Generation. Prior to Queenstown Airport, Mr Sanderson was the CEO for Dynamic Controls, the world’s largest designer and manufacture of wheelchair controllers.

“I am really looking forward to joining the Wellington team. With passenger numbers at Wellington Airport doubling from 5 to 10 million over the next 20 years there are great opportunities, especially the challenge to enhance international connectivity and further Wellington Airport’s contribution to NZ inc. and the regional economy,” said Steve Sanderson.

Mr Sanderson will commence in the role of Chief Executive Officer for Wellington Airport in the New Year.

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RENA Volunteers ramping up response

More than 2600 people have so far volunteered to help with cleaning up Bay of Plenty beaches of oil and container contents, and are being organised and trained.

Tauranga Mayor Stuart Crosby and Bay of Plenty Regional Council Chairman John Cronin said people should stay away from the beaches and register to volunteer for the cleanup on www.boprc.govt.nz/oilspillvolunteers , by phone on 0800 645 774 or at their local surf club.

"We know it's frustrating for the many people who just want to help, but unless they have been invited directly and received the vital training the environment could be further damaged by incorrect handling of the cleanup," Mayor Crosby said.

"Too much sand can be removed, and unless people are properly equipped they will track the oil back into urban areas, which we are already having problems with."

Mr Cronin said people who went to the beach without registering risked having clothing and shoes ruined, as well as anything they touched.

"This stuff is toxic. If you get it on your clothes, and you will, it cannot be cleaned off. One person had some on their fingers, tried to use their mobile phone and melted the numbers off. This oil is very nasty."

There will be a cleanup today at Ōmanu starting at 10am for 50 trained volunteers, by invitation only. A cleanup starts this morning at Fergusson Park with 50 trained people involved. About 200 community volunteers and iwi are cleaning up at Maketū and training for volunteers is being conducted at Pāpāmoa Surf Club (with no cleanup afterwards).

The volunteer coordination team is working through rostering the volunteers to get the maximum benefit from them. They are contacting volunteers and rostering them on when required.

Tomorrow is the biggest day for volunteers - 700 have been invited to help at five sites. Another two or three training sessions will be held to get ahead of oil arriving on beaches at Waihī Beach, Pukehina and Ōhope. No oil has been found at these beaches yet.

Volunteers are reminded to take care of the dune plantings which are essential to the replenishment of the dunes, and if they are not invited to be involved, no-one should come down to the beach. The beaches from Mount Maunganui to Maketū Point are closed to the public until further notice.

ANZ is catering for volunteers and there have been several offers of other catering support.

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Rena inquiry must look at turning back 90s deregulation

Any inquiry resulting from the Rena disaster must look at the impact that deregulation has had on New Zealand's coastal shipping, Green Party Oceans spokesperson Gareth Hughes said today.

In 1994 the Bolger National Government removed cabotage (the restricting of coastal shipping to New Zealand vessels).

"The Green Party considers coastal shipping to be an essential part of transporting goods around New Zealand," said Mr Hughes.

"This doesn't mean we consider everyone should have the right to operate in our waters.

"Deregulation opened the door to foreign vessels flying under flags of convenience - such as the Liberian flagged Rena - moving domestic freight around the country.

"Ships with flags of convenience often operate with below par labour standards, poor health and safety conditions, and have been implicated in far too many accidents leading to adverse effects on the environment.

"We consider it is far safer if trained domestic crews operate in New Zealand waters.

"Too often overstressed and under paid foreign crews are working our dangerous coastlines.

"Neither the current Key Government or the previous Labour administration have made any moves to change this situation," said Mr Hughes.

"It's time to improve New Zealand's shipping regulations and plan for a safer, better system of New Zealand operated coastal shipping."

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Filipinos Appeal against Racial Hatred over Rena Disaster

Migrante Aotearoa New Zealand, an organisation of Filipinos working and living in New Zealand , is appealing to New Zealanders to spare the Filipino community from racial hatred in the midst of the Rena oil crisis.

“The environmental disaster in Tauranga is a tragedy of the highest order. Fanning racial hatred against Filipinos who also care so much for the beauty of New Zealand would be another gross human disaster. We do understand the intense feelings of New Zealanders over this disaster. We appeal for sobriety so that innocent Filipinos would not be subjected to racial hatred as already experienced by some Filipinos in Tauranga,” Dennis Maga, Migrante Aotearoa National Coordinator says.

“We Filipinos are one with the people of Tauranga and whole of New Zealand in lamenting the massive environmental disaster brought by the Rena oil spill. We regret that this happened and hope that those responsible would be made accountable in accordance with New Zealand and international laws. We too are deeply aggrieved over this tragedy and hope for the best possible efforts to save every living thing out there,” Maga concludes.

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Telecom pays $31.6 million in compensation in settlement of sub-loop extension discrimination claim

The Commerce Commission has reached a $31.6 million settlement with Telecom over alleged discrimination under the Telecom Separation Undertakings.

The settlement follows a decision by the Commission in May to issue legal proceedings alleging that Telecom had discriminated against other telecommunications companies in breach of the Undertakings by failing to provide them with unbundled bitstream access (UBA) in conjunction with the sub-loop extension service (SLES) when Telecom was providing an equivalent service to its own retail business.

The UBA/SLES service was intended to allow other telecommunications companies to provide their own voice services from their exchange based equipment in conjunction with a Telecom broadband service from a roadside cabinet. The Commission considered that Telecom’s failure to provide this service to other telecommunications companies, while providing it to its own retail business, caused serious harm to competition in telecommunications markets, reduced the extent of local loop unbundling, and resulted in significant commercial gain to Telecom.

While Telecom does not accept that its conduct was in breach of the Undertakings, it acknowledges that it failed to meet expectations that it would provide a UBA service with SLES in a timely manner, and has agreed to pay compensation to its wholesale competitors who have been adversely affected.

“The $31.6 million settlement means that Telecom has returned its commercial gain through the compensation it has agreed to pay to telecommunications companies Vodafone, Orcon, CallPlus, Compass and Airnet. This will enable these companies to invest further in local loop unbundling and provide competitive services to consumers. We are pleased that Telecom has worked constructively with the Commission to reach a settlement which has avoided lengthy and expensive litigation, and resolved the matter prior to structural separation coming into effect,” said Dr Patterson, Telecommunications Commissioner.

“In addition, Telecom is now in the process of rolling out its new Access Seeker Voice service which is intended to provide telecommunications companies with the equivalent functionality as the UBA with SLES service.” said Dr Patterson.

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