Te Arawa FM

30/10/2025

Te Kāhui Raraunga today unveiled its new Māori AI Governance Framework at the Iwi Chairs Forum in Hopuhopu, aimed at protecting Māori data sovereignty as government agencies expand their use of artificial intelligence.

“As government agencies and organisations across Aotearoa increasingly adopt AI technologies, the need for robust, culturally grounded governance has never been more important,” said Te Kāhui Raraunga Lead Technician Kirikowhai Mikaere, who launched the framework. “AI's transformative potential is greatest when technology aligns with ethics - transparency, fairness, and shared decision-making.”

The framework builds on the Māori Data Governance Model and sets out safeguards to prevent bias and harm, including independent monitoring, transparency in algorithm use, and clear accountability. Mikaere warned that without such protections, “AI systems will amplify existing inequities, undermine Māori rights, and seep into critical decision-making that will affect all Māori.”

29/10/2025

Police have arrested two men in connection with the death of 29-year-old Tristan Oakes in Te Puke on Saturday, 25 October. Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown, Western Bay of Plenty Area Investigations Manager, says the two men, aged 39 and 40, will appear in the Tauranga District Court today charged with murder. Tristan died in hospital after being critically injured when he was shot at his Te Puke home.
“Police would like to thank the community for their assistance during the investigation,” says Detective Senior Sergeant Flowerdew-Brown. “Our thoughts are with Tristan’s friends and whānau at this difficult time.”

29/10/2025

A proud day for Kawerau District Council as eight of its nine members were officially sworn in, marking the beginning of a new term under returning Mayor Faylene Tunui of Ngāti Tūwharetoa ki Kawerau. Joining her are the council’s first-ever Māori ward councillors, Mal Dowie and Gloria Leokava-Taani, whose appointments represent a powerful step forward for Māori representation and community unity in Kawerau.

29/10/2025

In a historic moment for Kawerau District Council, eight of nine members were officially sworn in today, led by returning Mayor Faylene Tunui of Ngāti Tūwharetoa ki Kawerau. Joining her are the district’s first-ever Māori ward councillors, Mal Dowie and Gloria Leokava-Taani — marking a powerful step forward for Māori representation, unity, and leadership in a community proud of its roots and vision for future generations.

27/10/2025

Kia ora E te iwi,

We’re giving back to our local legends! 🙌
Nominate a business you think deserves some ❤️

We’ll pick one lucky winner this Friday at 9AM live on air!

Thanks to Reduced to Clear Rotorua 🫡

27/10/2025

A homicide investigation is ongoing following the death of 29-year-old Tristan “Eru - Stax” Oakes, who was fatally shot at his Te Puke home over the Labour Weekend (on Saturday, 25 October).

Police have named two men they wish to speak to in connection with his death - 39-year-old Kanan Clarke and 40-year-old Joseph Yorke. Both are considered dangerous and should not be approached.

Anyone with information on their whereabouts is urged to contact Police and quote file number 251025/0395, or share information anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

27/10/2025

A homicide investigation is underway in Manoeka, Te Puke, after a man died from a gunshot wound sustained on Saturday morning. Police were alerted around 10.30am after the man was taken to hospital in a critical condition. Despite medical efforts, he died yesterday.

A scene examination is continuing in Manoeka, and Police are urging anyone with information or footage from the area between 10am and 11am on Saturday, 25 October, to come forward.

Information can be provided via 105, quoting reference 251025/0395, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111

27/10/2025

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23/10/2025

20/10/2025