Hospital build’s digital infrastructure
Nelson Hospital is adopting a new way of getting complex digital infrastructure systems put in place, with a tweak. The Nelson and Whangārei builds are adapting what the Dunedin redevelopment did when it hired a digital system integrator. They are tweaking it slightly by putting the integrator under the main contractor instead of directly with Health New Zealand. Health NZ says getting hospital IT done this way recognises what a big job it is. “It also aims to avoid perpetuating legacy technical issues by ensuring that contemporary, resilient digital infrastructure, aligned to Health New Zealand digital standards, is implemented on the major hospital build programmes,” it says. It was working successfully in Dunedin, it added. Its tender alerting companies it will be hiring, invites them to join a list of pre-qualified suppliers for when the job is let for real. It says that list may be used for other similar hospital projects in future. “Similar models are likely to be used to support delivery of significant digital modernisation programmes through the Centre for Digital Modernisation of Health.”
Police seek rider after Stoke crash
Police are appealing for information about a dirtbike rider who allegedly failed to stop before crashing on Main Road Stoke on 23 July. The rider was seen about 11.20am on a green dirtbike without a helmet or visible number plate. After allegedly failing to stop for police, the rider is believed to have performed a wheelie before losing control and sliding along the road. Tasman Police community constable Daryl Fenemor says the rider appeared uninjured and left the scene before officers could check on their welfare or obtain their details. Police say the rider left behind a black Nike shoe, a black and white New York Yankees cap, and pieces of green bodywork from the bike. Anyone with information can contact Police via 105 and quote file number 260723/9451.
Youth Council conference
Earlier this month, the Top of the South youth councils gathered for a joint hui. A total of 41 youth councillors, representing the Nelson, Marlborough, and Tasman’s Waimea, Motueka, Golden Bay, and Murchison Youth Councils, along with Multicultural Youth Nelson Tasman, attended. The meeting provided a space for the young people to connect with their peeers, share experiences, collaborate on common themes, challenges, learning, and future plans for their respective councils.
Aratere reaches final port in India
The former Interislander ferry Aratere has arrived at the Alang ship-breaking yard in Gujarat, India, bringing an end to 26 years of service across Cook Strait. Renamed Vega for its final voyage, the vessel departed Nelson after months of delays following its sale by KiwiRail to Indian company Jahaj Solutions. Its departure required environmental clearance because the ship was classified as hazardous waste, with approval needed from New Zealand’s Environmental Protection Authority. The Aratere made its final Cook Strait crossing on 18 August 2025, closing a significant chapter in New Zealand’s transport history. Now at one of the world’s largest ship-breaking facilities, the vessel will be dismantled and recycled.
Richmond youth hub opens
Young people in Richmond now have a dedicated place to connect, study and relax, with the new Waimea Youth Hub opening on a trial basis at the Richmond Aquatic Centre. The Waimea Youth Council has been advocating for a youth space in Richmond for years and, with support from Richmond Aquatic Centre operators CLM, the hub is now open every Friday after school. The space is aimed at high school students and provides a safe, comfortable environment where they can spend time with friends, play games or study. The hub is open from 3.10pm to 6pm every Friday during school terms at the Richmond Aquatic Centre.
Thieves strike Stoke School again
Stoke School has been targeted by thieves for the third time in recent months, with pipes stolen from the school in the early hours of Monday morning. In a post on social media, the school said a person was seen on CCTV at about 3.30am before returning at 5am on a bicycle and cutting pipes from the walls. The theft left six school toilets out of action on Monday. The school says police had been notified. The latest incident follows a series of thefts and acts of vandalism at the school.
School transition information session
The Bays Montessori is hosting a free “Ready for School – What Really Matters?” information session at the Jaycee Room at Founders Heritage Park on 18 August to help families feel more confident and informed about the milestone in a child’s life. Clifton Terrace School, Hampden Street School, St Joseph’s School, Stoke Primary School, and Victory Primary School will be represented by new entrant teachers and school leaders who will share practical advice and insights into what helps children make a confident and successful transition to school. The afternoon will conclude with a panel discussion, providing parents with the opportunity to ask questions directly. Bays Montessori centre director Nissa Mowjood also says families attending the session who would like to learn more about Montessori education are also invited to arrange an observation visit. The event takes place between 1.15 pm and 3pm, and registrations to attend can be made by calling 021 175 6477 or email nelson.montessori@gmail.com
