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Pamela Rasmussen, 40, died in Auckland Hospital’s Emergency Department last month.
She had tried three times to get admitted to various hospitals.
Her bereft family is seeking answers, questioning the care she received.
Police attended the sudden death and the case has been referred to the … View morePamela Rasmussen, 40, died in Auckland Hospital’s Emergency Department last month.
She had tried three times to get admitted to various hospitals.
Her bereft family is seeking answers, questioning the care she received.
Police attended the sudden death and the case has been referred to the coroner.
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The whānau of a mum of six who died suddenly in Auckland Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) last month wants to know how doctors got it so wrong.
Pamela Rasmussen, 40, (Ngāti Maniapoto) died in Auckland Hospital on May 13, 2025, four days after she had been diagnosed with tonsillitis at Waitakere Hospital, and following several visits to hospital EDs.
Health New Zealand (HNZ) said it could not comment on her death, as it was being investigated by the coroner, and would not say whether it would also conduct its own investigation.
Sore throat on May 9, dead on May 13
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Pamela’s symptoms began with a sore throat on May 9 and a visit to Waitakere ED complaining of breathlessness. She was admitted overnight, but by May 13 she was dead - from organ failure, according to whānau.
“They discharged her from Waitakere Hospital on May 10, saying it was tonsillitis, because [her tonsils] were inflamed,” Pamela’s younger sister Tamari Mose told the Herald.
On May 11, Mother’s Day, Pamela - who was still in pain - spent the morning with her children then returned to Waitākere Hospital.
She was then transferred to Auckland City Hospital for a throat endoscopy and doctors discharged her with medication on Monday afternoon, May 12.
On May 13, Pamela called an ambulance to rush her back to Auckland Hospital. She was not seen for two hours and sat in the emergency waiting room, her husband told the Herald.
When her husband Losi Rasmussen finally arrived at Auckland hospital, he said Pamela had still not been seen by health staff. The couple had been together more than 21 years and had six children.
“They called me at work and I rushed to the hospital. Pamela was still in the waiting room and I could see she was struggling to breathe,” Rasmussen told the Herald.
“Then a nurse came and took her blood pressure which was dropping. Pamela was rushed to a room and I went with her.”
Rasmussen said nurses and doctors were rushing around, and he saw Pamela “spewing” up blood into her oxygen mask.
“She waved to me to take off her mask because she couldn’t breathe,” Rasmussen said.
“I held her hand and squeezed it.”
I was taken out of the room and all I could hear was Pam’s screams. She was in pain. It was the last thing I ever heard from her.
Husband Losi Rasmussen
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Rasmussen said he was taken to an adjoining room while medical teams worked on Pamela.
“I was taken out of the room, and all I could hear was my wife’s screams. She was in pain. It was the last thing I ever heard from her.
“When I went back into the room, I could see the life had drained out of my wife,” Rasmussen said.
“She was a different colour.
“A nurse tried to comfort me and said my wife was dying.
“I didn’t want anyone around me, so I asked the nurses to leave and I didn’t know whether to be sad or angry. I just sat there.
Rasmussen is angry neither he nor the couple’s children had a chance to say goodbye to Pamela. “No one had a chance to say goodbye.”
The couple’s eldest daughter, Heather Rasmussen, said the whānau wants to know what happened.
“We want to know the truth about how Mum died. We don’t want other families to go through what we are.”
“We felt like she was just written off.
“Us older kids and dad are trying to be mum for my younger siblings.
“But they wake up in the night crying, wanting to know when mum is coming home.”
Pamela’s sister Tamari Mose said hospital staff told the whānau Pamela didn’t die from tonsillitis.
“It’s like they did minimal tests to get her out and didn’t look into it any further. Why wasn’t she chest X-rayed when she was brought back in on May 13? We have to wait for the coroner’s report for cause of death.”
Mose said the family also insisted police be called, as they attend all sudden and or unexpected deaths.
“The police turned up but only because we queried about a sudden death. They were not going to offer – we had to ask for that,“ Mose said.
“The staff said, ‘Oh yeah, we will ring the police’, who came later that night and did an initial investigation.
“We found out police were not happy with the initial report and its findings, and that’s when we were told it was organ failure, not tonsillitis, that killed her.
“That’s why she had to have an autopsy.” The autopsy will help the coroner with their findings.
Mose said the whānau is trying to do as much as they can for Pamela’s children. Not making it to the hospital in time to say goodbye has left the whānau devastated.
“The three older ones [kids] they understand that she’s gone, but the three younger ones, they’re still like, ‘When is mom coming home? When is she coming back up from the ground?’”.
“It’s so heartbreaking.”
Police confirmed they attended a sudden death at Auckland City Hospital on May 13.
“Staff attended the emergency department at around 8pm after a 40-year-old West Auckland woman had died.
“The death was not considered suspicious and has been referred to the Coroner.”
Said a Health NZ spokesperson: “We extend our deepest sympathies to this family for their loss.
“As this matter is before the Coroner, is it not appropriate for us to comment further at this time.”
The Rasmussen family who lost their mum Pamela (back) suddenly. Her children Joshua (6), Pamela (7), Losiana (8), Serafina (15), Esther (20), and Heather (21) with dad Losi.
The Rasmussen family who lost their mum Pamela (back) suddenly. Her children Joshua (6), Pamela (7), Losiana (8), Serafina (15), Esther (20), and Heather (21) with dad Losi.
The family has created a Givealittle page to help provide support for Pamela’s children as they adjust to life without their mum.
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Properly storing your tools, whether for professional use or home projects, is essential to maintain their functionality and longevity.
Whether you're storing in your shed, utilizing a self-storage unit at Kiwi Self Storage for short-term convenience or long-term safekeeping, following … View moreProperly storing your tools, whether for professional use or home projects, is essential to maintain their functionality and longevity.
Whether you're storing in your shed, utilizing a self-storage unit at Kiwi Self Storage for short-term convenience or long-term safekeeping, following best practices ensures your tools remain in optimal condition.
Read our helpful article and related blogs to keep your tools safe.
Upgrading a lampshade is a cinch. Add a touch of design flair to your home by updating an old lightshade with Resene wallpaper. Find out how to refresh your lampshade with these easy step by step instructions.
There’s something magical about winter – slower mornings, steaming mugs, and time to plan your dream garden. So why not cosy up and get inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful green spaces?
Right now, when you subscribe to NZ Gardener for 1 or 2 years, you’ll receive The Joy of … View moreThere’s something magical about winter – slower mornings, steaming mugs, and time to plan your dream garden. So why not cosy up and get inspired by some of the world’s most beautiful green spaces?
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Real Police officers are warning Kiwis to be vigilant of cold callers posing as Police officers, as a pesky scam rears its head.
In the past year, Police have worked quickly to warn the public as these scam calls emerged.
Waitematā CIB’s acting Detective Senior Sergeant Ben Bergin says, … View moreReal Police officers are warning Kiwis to be vigilant of cold callers posing as Police officers, as a pesky scam rears its head.
In the past year, Police have worked quickly to warn the public as these scam calls emerged.
Waitematā CIB’s acting Detective Senior Sergeant Ben Bergin says, “unsuspecting victims are essentially being called out of the blue under a ruse”.
“The story changes slightly, but it will usually involve some sort of investigation and this ‘officer’ will report having located a valuable item of yours, such as a passport.
“He will need your help or ask for your personal information.
“The caller speaks with an English accent and provides a bogus ID number to the victim.”
If you receive a phone call such as this, Police advise the public to be extremely cautious.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Bergin says previous iterations of this scam has involved scammers asking people to withdraw cash as part of ‘an investigation’ or handing over bank details.
Police made several arrests last year over the scam.
“We strongly advise that you hang up,” he says.
“From time-to-time, Police officers may contact you as part of their genuine duties.
“It can be a bit surprising to receive a call unexpectantly, so stop and think if you get a far-fetched story shared down the telephone line.”
In the past week, Police have received reports from Kiwis on both islands, including: Warkworth, Riverhead, Royal Oak, Ngaruawahia and in the Clutha and Queenstown-Lakes districts.
“Fortunately, at this stage we are not aware of any victims losing money,” acting Detective Senior Sergeant Bergin says.
“Those recipients have done the right thing and ended the call and reported it to the real Police.”
If you have received a similar call, please report this to Police online now or call 105.
𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗭𝗲𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗲 ⤵️
🚔Police will never ask for your bank details, pin numbers or banking log in.
🚔Police do not offer prize money
🚔 Police will never ask you to go to a bank and withdraw your own cash
🚔 Stop and think: If the call seems off, hang up and call 105 to verify the officer’s identity, or request a callback.
Working lives are getting longer as New Zealanders join the workforce earlier and work longer after retirement, according to Stats NZ.
Census data shows almost one in two Kiwis between 65-69 years old were still employed in 2023, while the percentage of people aged 15 to 29 in employment in 2023 … View moreWorking lives are getting longer as New Zealanders join the workforce earlier and work longer after retirement, according to Stats NZ.
Census data shows almost one in two Kiwis between 65-69 years old were still employed in 2023, while the percentage of people aged 15 to 29 in employment in 2023 was 65.7%, up from 56.6% in 2013.
Teenagers were the largest contributor to the increase, with employment among those aged 15 to 19 rising to 45.1% in 2023, compared with 40.7% in 2018 and 33.7% in 2013.
“Employment increased across all ages between 2013 and 2018 as the labour market recovered from the Global Financial Crisis,” said 2023 Census spokesperson Dr Rosemary Goodyear.
“However, for teenagers there was another increase in employment between 2018 and 2023, leading to larger growth over the decade compared with other age groups.”
Goodyear said other sources of labour market data, including Stats NZ’s Household Labour Force Survey, captured particularly strong employment for people aged 15 to 29 years across 2022 and 2023.
“This 2023 spike in employment for young people was likely linked to the low unemployment rate at the time, and the high unmet demand for labour following Covid-19 migration restrictions,” Goodyear said.
Meanwhile, more New Zealanders appear to be working for longer.
Employment among those aged 65 to 69 rose to 44% in 2023, up from 42.2% in both 2013 and 2018.
The percentage of those aged 70 to 74 who were employed in 2023 was 24.7%, up from 23% in 2018 and 21.9% in 2013.
For those 75 years and older, employment rose to 9.9%, compared with 8% in 2018 and 7.4% in 2013.
“The proportion of older people in employment has been steadily increasing over time,” Goodyear said.
“There are several factors which may be contributing to this trend, including better health, longer life expectancy, and financial pressures surrounding retirement.”
Data released earlier this year from Seek, as part of its Evolving Working Life report, showed cost of living pressures mean 41% of people don’t expect to retire by age 70.
Meanwhile, 32% believe they’ll be working longer than they want to.
The biggest reason for delaying retirement was that their financial situation won’t allow them to (58%).
According to Work and Income, those eligible for NZ Superannuation at 65 years old are entitled to payments even if they are still working, but the payments may be less depending on their tax code.
Meanwhile, Stats NZ said only three age groups had a decrease in employment between 2018 and 2023 – ages 25-29; ages 50-54; and ages 55-59.
The highest proportions of youth employment (15-29) were in Marlborough (75.0%), Southland (71.1%), and Tasman (71.2%).
In Auckland, youth employment was 63.9%.
Goodyear said the Marlborough region is well known for its seasonal work opportunities, particularly in fruit picking and viticulture.
“This type of work suits backpackers and young people who are looking for the opportunity to travel and gain new experiences.”
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For the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us. Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts. Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of … View moreFor the 11th time, you’ve voted us your Most Trusted Brand and that means the world to us. Because trust this strong doesn’t happen by chance. Ten years? That’s a perfect score. But eleven? That’s off the charts. Whether it’s your first visit or you call a village home, that feeling of trust is what sets us apart.
Come along to West Lynn Garden venue at 9.30am to meet like-minded gardeners over a coffee, hear this month's speaker and learn about up coming day trips. All welcome
What's happening: Tens of thousands more New Zealanders are struggling under the cost of living crisis as KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals reach new highs. Both the number of Kiwis making withdrawals and the amount taken out have smashed last year’s figures in just 10 months. Inland Revenue … View moreWhat's happening: Tens of thousands more New Zealanders are struggling under the cost of living crisis as KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals reach new highs. Both the number of Kiwis making withdrawals and the amount taken out have smashed last year’s figures in just 10 months. Inland Revenue data shows between July 2024 and April 2025, more than $389.4 million had been withdrawn from KiwiSaver for financial hardship reasons, up from $300.5m in the year to June 30, 2024. A total of 44,360 people had withdrawn money from KiwiSaver for hardship reasons, up from 32,480 in the previous financial year.
The response: David Verry, financial mentor at Auckland Central Budgeting and North Harbour Budgeting Services, said it was no surprise to see those figures. "Across the board we’re seeing increases in the number of people approaching us for KiwiSaver hardships," he said. "I’d have to say probably two out of three people that have approached me in recent times have been looking for KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals." Verry said some financial mentors have seen a doubling of those seeking withdrawals over the last two years. There were now people fronting up for their second round of hardships, he said.
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Whakatāne District Council plans to crack down on residents recycling mistakes with a "three-strikes" rule - contaminate your bin three times and you could lose it for three months.
The goal? Less landfill, more proper recycling.
The Government will allow migrants in New Zealand to sponsor their parents to visit and stay here under a new visa rolling out in September.
The visa will allow the parents of New Zealand citizens and residents multi-entry access for up to five years, with the opportunity for renewal once, meaning… View moreThe Government will allow migrants in New Zealand to sponsor their parents to visit and stay here under a new visa rolling out in September.
The visa will allow the parents of New Zealand citizens and residents multi-entry access for up to five years, with the opportunity for renewal once, meaning they could hold the visa for 10 years.
However, applicants will have to fulfil a list of criteria, including demonstrating they have health insurance and meet character requirements. An income requirement will also need to be met by either the applicant or their sponsor.
The National Party promised the “Parent Boost” visa during the 2023 election campaign, with the intention of making New Zealand a more attractive option for skilled migrants.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today announced that applications would open on September 29.
He said there was expected to be between 2000 to 10,000 applicants per year, with no cap. The visa will be monitored closely with a review in 2027.
Luxon said that to “drive economic growth, we need to incentivise skilled migrants to choose New Zealand”.
“Ensuring we continue to attract the right people with the skills this country needs will deliver significant economic and social benefits for all New Zealanders,” the Prime Minister said.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford said the Government understood a long-term visitor visa for parents was a key consideration for migrants when choosing where to build their lives.
“Whether it be welcoming a new child, additional support during health challenges or providing childcare so parents can work, there is nothing quite like having family support close by,” Stanford said.
“We are proud to deliver this coalition agreement between National and Act, which will make the New Zealand proposition more appealing and more competitive.”
According to the Government, to be eligible for a Parent Boost visa, applicants must:
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have an eligible sponsor who is a New Zealand citizen or resident
meet acceptable standard of health requirements
demonstrate they have at least one year of health insurance coverage which provides for emergency medical cover (of at least up to $250,000), repatriation, return of remains and cancer treatment (of at least $100,000) and to maintain this insurance for the entire duration they are in New Zealand
meet character requirements and be a bona fide / genuine visitor
while offshore during the third year of the multiple-entry visitor visa, complete a new medical assessment and demonstrate they have maintained their insurance
One of the following income requirements must also be met:
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The sponsor must earn the median wage to sponsor one parent, joint sponsors must earn 1.5x the median wage, or;
The parent/s have an ongoing income aligning with the single rate of New Zealand Superannuation for a single parent and the couple rate for a couple, or;
The parent/s have available funds of $160,000 for a single parent and $250,000 for a couple to support themselves for the duration of their visa.
The sponsors must remain living in New Zealand while the visa holder is here and are liable for any costs incurred in relation to the visa holder during this period, the Government said.
The applicants will be able to renew their visa once, allowing for a maximum length of visit to be 10 years. They will need to spend three months outside of New Zealand prior to getting their second visa.
Act’s immigration spokeswoman Dr Parmjeet Parmar welcomed the visa, though noted it was slightly different to what her party had proposed during the 2023 election campaign.
“Act’s 2023 proposal differed slightly in that it would have included an annual fee to fund healthcare costs through a public health fund,” she said.
“The Parent Boost Visa’s alternative, a requirement for comprehensive private health insurance, serves a similar purpose in protecting New Zealand taxpayers.”
Luxon said there was a “whole bunch of complexity” associated with a healthcare levy and it was instead easier to require healthcare insurance instead.
Stanford believed the Government was being “flexible” with the insurance requirement.
“Not only are we saying you can have it from a New Zealand country, you can have it from overseas companies as well,” she said. “We have looked at other countries. There are plenty of providers who will come to the table and offer this product.”
The Green Party was critical of the income requirement threshold, saying the Government was telling migrants families “if your parents don’t have a quarter of a million in funds, they are not welcome here”.
“The Government’s changes to the Parent Boost visa send a clear signal that they do not value the significant contribution of our migrant communities who National labelled as essential not long ago. This is not good enough,” said the party’s immigration spokesman Ricardo Menéndez March.
“The requirements of the five-year parent category visa mean only those with significant wealth will be able to apply, leaving out the lower wage migrant workers National was calling “essential” not many years ago," Menéndez March.
“The Greens support having genuine residency pathways for parents, because it makes no sense for families to be kept apart. Being wealthy should not be a prerequisite to having your parents with you in New Zealand. We will overhaul the parent residency scheme to ensure families are treated fairly.”
Currently, Immigration New Zealand’s Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa allows for stays of up to six months at a time, with a maximum of 18 months across three years. The separate Parent Resident Visa allows parents to come to New Zealand indefinitely, but they must be invited to apply after submitting an expression of interest.
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Stay active and keep doing the things you love.
Join a strength and balance class near you. With classes to suit every pace and ability, and trained instructors to guide you through, it’s a great way to keep healthy and make new friends. So you can live stronger for longer, and keep living the … View moreStay active and keep doing the things you love.
Join a strength and balance class near you. With classes to suit every pace and ability, and trained instructors to guide you through, it’s a great way to keep healthy and make new friends. So you can live stronger for longer, and keep living the life you want. Find a class near you today.
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