Man charged with arson over Stokes Valley apartment fire
A 21-year-old Wellington man has been charged with arson following a fire at a Hanson Grove block of flats on 10 October. The charge relates to one of three suspicious fires at the Stokes Valley address. The man was due to appear in the Hutt Valley District Court on Friday.
Auckland rail network to face 96 days of full closures
Auckland's rail network will undergo 96 days of full closures between late 2025 and January 2026 for critical upgrades. Transport Minister Simeon Brown stated these works are necessary before the City Rail Link opens. Retail and hospitality leaders have expressed concern regarding the impact these shutdowns may have on local businesses.
All Blacks to face Ireland in World Cup quarterfinal rematch
The All Blacks will play Ireland at Dublin's Aviva Stadium in a World Cup quarterfinal rematch. The match is scheduled for 9.10am on Saturday. The All Blacks have not defeated Ireland at this venue since 2016.
Police advise avoiding travel in southern Westland due to flooding
Several roads in the Haast area have been closed by contractors following surface flooding. Police are urging people in southern Westland to avoid travelling on Friday night as high tide is expected overnight. The Westland District remains under an orange heavy rain warning until Saturday night.
Taranaki Regional Council suspends bike racks on buses
The Taranaki Regional Council has implemented a temporary suspension of bike racks on its buses following safety warnings from Waka Kotahi. Transport Minister Simeon Brown has requested that the NZTA find an urgent solution to the nationwide ban on bike racks by bus operators.
Thieves target open homes in Auckland to steal valuables
Police are warning Auckland homeowners after thieves targeted open homes in West Auckland and on the North Shore. Recent incidents involved the theft of a vehicle and a ring valued at $20,000. Authorities are advising owners to lock away valuables before conducting property viewings.
Court hears evidence regarding messages and photos on accused's phone
The Christchurch High Court heard evidence regarding digital content found on Tingjun Cao's phone. The Crown alleges the device contained nearly 100 deleted messages and a sensitive photograph of Yanfei Bao. Cao is currently on trial for the murder of Bao, whom he denies killing.
Five people injured in two-vehicle crash in New Lynn
A two-car collision occurred at the intersection of Portage Road and Clark Street on Friday morning. Emergency services responded to the scene, resulting in three people being taken to Auckland City Hospital with serious injuries and two others suffering minor injuries.
All Blacks prepare for match against Ireland in Dublin
The All Blacks are preparing to face world number one Ireland in Dublin. Following a narrow 28-24 All Blacks victory in last year's Rugby World Cup quarter-final, captain Scott Barrett says the team is aware of the challenge ahead.
Government to increase fees for directors of 22 Crown-owned companies
State Owned Enterprises Minister Paul Goldsmith has announced fee increases for directors of 22 Crown-owned companies to address rates that have remained static for 15 years. Fees will rise to 85% of the market rate next year and 90% in 2026. TVNZ directors may see a 41 per cent increase.
Trump's proposed import tariffs may be reduced due to economic risks
Incoming US president Donald Trump has proposed tariffs of 10-20 per cent on most foreign goods and 60 per cent on Chinese imports. An investment director suggests these high rates are unlikely to be implemented as they could damage the US economy. Farmers and exporters await more clarity following the January 20 inauguration.





