Extreme weather continues to cause dangerous conditions across the North Island. Right now, the Government is doing everything we can to support those impacted. Minister Mark Mitchell and I have been receiving briefings over the past 24 hours, and we are actively monitoring situations across the country – including the major incident in Mt Maunganui, where the Minister is on the ground. To the emergency responders, Defence Force personnel, and all those who are putting themselves in harm’s way to keep Kiwis safe, the whole country is grateful. We continue to urge people in affected areas to follow the advice of local authorities. More information can be found on your local Civil Defence website.

I am devastated that Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming has died and another officer is critically injured after a violent incident in Nelson last night. Police across New Zealand do an incredible job keeping us safe and it’s heart-wrenching for an officer to lose her life carrying out that duty. I extend my deepest condolences to Lyn’s loved ones and colleagues and hope for the recovery of those injured. This is a devastating day for Police and for New Zealand. Lyn will never be forgotten.

UPDATE: Two weeks ago we banned gang insignia in public. Today, 112 pieces of insignia have been seized and 79 charges have been laid.

Saw a comment of someone saying Police going after the gangs the way they are is “a bit full on”. That’s the point. Gangs are no longer above the law.

My message to gangs is this: the free ride is over.