Thursday 14 November 2024
25 stories first reported this day, covered by two or more outlets
Treaty Principles Bill passes first reading amid parliamentary disruption
The Government's Treaty Principles Bill has passed its first reading in Parliament. Proceedings were briefly suspended after Te Pāti Māori MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke led a haka and ripped a copy of the bill. During the debate, a Labour MP was also removed from the chamber after calling ACT leader David Seymour a liar.
NZME proposes closing 14 North Island community newspapers
NZME has proposed closing 14 North Island community newspapers, which could result in approximately 30 job losses. The company cited rising costs and a changing media landscape as reasons for the proposal. If the plan proceeds, the titles may cease publication before Christmas.
Treaty Principles Bill passes first reading amid widespread opposition
The Treaty Principles Bill has passed its first reading in Parliament. The Anglican Church and Ngāti Toa have joined forces to oppose the legislation, while 42 king's counsel have written to the prime minister. A protest hīkoi is expected to reach Parliament grounds next week.
New Zealand property sales increased by 20% in October
National property sales rose 20% in October compared to the previous year, according to REINZ data. While median prices saw slight increases, some Wellington sellers are removing homes from the market due to low buyer interest and market uncertainty.
Divers join search for missing Porirua man
Police divers are searching reservoirs near the Rangituhi/Colonial Knob walkway for 77-year-old Graham Russell Smith. He has been missing since Sunday evening after going for a walk. Authorities have released a CCTV image of Mr Smith to assist with the search.
Black Caps lose first ODI to Sri Lanka in Dambulla
New Zealand suffered a 45-run defeat against Sri Lanka in a rain-affected ODI at Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium. After Sri Lanka posted 324-5, featuring centuries from Kusal Mendis and Avishka Fernando, the Black Caps failed to reach a revised DLS target of 221.
Commerce Commission files criminal charges against One NZ over SpaceX claims
The Commerce Commission is taking legal action against One NZ for advertising its SpaceX satellite service as having 100% coverage. The commission alleges these claims may breach the Fair Trading Act. One NZ has stated it will vigorously defend the charges.
Thousands support Hīkoi mō te Tiriti in Nelson and Hamilton
More than 2,000 people gathered in Nelson to support the Wellington-bound hīkoi and oppose the Treaty Principles Bill. In Hamilton, over 6,000 marchers joined the procession through the city centre. The movement continues as protesters head towards Parliament.
Sam Cane ruled out of All Blacks test against France
Former captain Sam Cane will miss the All Blacks' match against France in Paris due to a head injury. Assistant coach hints suggest Peter Lakai could potentially replace him at openside flanker for the Sunday morning test.
Contactless payments to begin on Auckland public transport this Sunday
Auckland commuters can start using contactless debit and credit cards, smartphones, or wearable devices to pay for buses, trains, and ferries from 17 November. Auckland Transport confirmed that AT Hop cards will remain usable alongside these new digital payment options.
Government loan to support aquaculture centre near Bluff
A $2.2 million government loan has been announced to expand an aquaculture facility at Ocean Beach. The funding aims to support a centre of excellence that grows pāua in purpose-built tanks. Regional leaders suggest this investment could help develop a potential $1.5 billion industry in Southland.
Luxon refuses conscience vote on Treaty Principles Bill
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has stated there will be no conscience vote regarding the Treaty Principles Bill. The bill is scheduled for its first reading in Parliament this Thursday, despite questions regarding whether all National MPs support it.
Five people arrested in Southland raid targeting Comancheros gang
Five associates of the Comancheros gang, aged between 35 and 53, have been arrested in Southland. Police allege the group was an integral part of the gang's methamphetamine supply network. The individuals face charges related to drug supply and participating in organised criminal group offences.
Three people killed in Hamilton vehicle and train collision
Three people died after a vehicle collided with a train at a Peachgrove Road level crossing in Hamilton on Wednesday. The deceased have been identified as William Brown, Shylin Huirama-Osborne, and Sione Nusipepa. Two other occupants of the vehicle remain in Waikato Hospital.
Events scheduled for Taranaki and Wellington this week
Various events are taking place across Taranaki and Wellington. Taranaki will host an ABBA tribute concert at the TSB Showplace on Friday, while Wellington features the Te Anga Pāua o Aotearoa National Kapa Haka Festival on November 15.
Chris Wood aims for World Cup success during Hamilton return
All Whites striker Chris Wood returns to Hamilton this week to play Vanuatu. The Nottingham Forest forward, who was recently named Premier League Player of the Month, is focused on helping New Zealand qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Officer justified in fatal shooting of man in Wainuiomata
The Independent Police Conduct Authority found an officer was justified in shooting 36-year-old Tane Wipa at a rural Wainuiomata property last November. Police responded to reports of an assault and found the man holding a screwdriver to a woman's throat. Mr Wipa died of cardiac arrest after being shot in the shoulder.
Chicken dish contamination caused mass illness at University of Canterbury
Health New Zealand has confirmed that a contaminated chicken dish caused mass sickness among residents at University Hall. More than 150 students experienced vomiting and diarrhoea following dinner on 3 November during the end of year exam period.
Heavy rain and muggy conditions forecast for much of New Zealand
MetService has issued heavy rain warnings and watches for several regions, including the Tasman District ranges, Mount Taranaki, and Northland. Most main centres are expected to experience wet weather throughout Thursday, with warmer than average muggy temperatures forecast for the night.
Truck crashes down bank in Wellington's Aro Valley
A sump sucker truck crashed over a bank on Mortimer Terrace, stopping just metres from two homes. The driver was out of the vehicle at the time of the accident and was uninjured. Several residents have been evacuated as a precaution while contractors work to remove the truck.
Two Wellington schools closed due to water leaks
Cashmere Avenue School in Khandallah closed on Thursday following a major leak that cut water to the area. This follows the closure of Te Aro School on Wednesday after a burst water main. Wellington Water has warned that repairs may take some time.
Person dies in tractor accident on Hunua property
Police were alerted late Wednesday night after a person failed to return home from spraying weeds on a farm in Hunua. A police helicopter located a body and a tractor that appeared to have rolled down a bank. The serious crash unit is investigating the incident.
Air New Zealand releases new safety video starring Steven Adams
Air New Zealand has released its 23rd safety video, titled Every Point Counts. The new footage features NBA player Steven Adams and focuses on entertaining themes rather than serious ones. The video began screening on flights from Thursday.
Firefighters extinguish large commercial building blaze in Kumeū
Approximately 70 firefighters battled a large fire in a Kumeū commercial building that began around 10pm on Wednesday. The blaze reached a third alarm level, requiring nine fire trucks and several specialist appliances. Emergency crews have since extinguished the fire.
Nelson Youth Theatre celebrates 25 years with musical concert
Nelson Youth Theatre is marking its 25th anniversary with a three-hour musical show. Founded by Richard Carruthers to provide opportunities for young local actors, the company will showcase various acts performed by its current members.







