Thursday 28 November 2024
12 stories first reported this day, covered by two or more outlets
First phase of Covid-19 response inquiry report released
The Royal Commission of Inquiry has released its 713-page report on New Zealand's pandemic response. The findings suggest vaccine mandates were too broad and the Auckland lockdown could have ended sooner. The report includes 39 recommendations to improve future pandemic readiness and resilience.
3 outlets · Two men arrested in Wellington drug supply investigation
Two men, aged 29 and 31, have been arrested following police raids in Khandallah and Hataitai. The arrests are part of Operation Erosion, a two-month investigation into regional drug supply. Police seized drugs and cash during the searches and allege one man used social media and encrypted apps to sell cocaine.
3 outlets · Minister seeks advice on $115m at risk in SolarZero collapse
Finance Minister Nicola Willis has requested urgent advice regarding $115 million in loans drawn from a Crown-owned investment fund by SolarZero. The solar energy company entered liquidation on Tuesday, leaving approximately 25 installation companies unpaid and staff owed nearly $1.5 million in annual leave.
3 outlets · Minister seeks answers after Pharmac switches menopause patch brand
David Seymour has requested an explanation from Pharmac following its decision to switch the main supplier of oestradiol patches. While the agency stated the move was necessary, some women have expressed concern over the change. Pharmac has since promised that patients will have an option to apply for access to other treatments.
2 outlets · Elevated arsenic levels detected in Waikato water supplies
Waipā and Waikato district councils have reported slightly elevated arsenic levels in water sourced from the Waikato River. These suppliers join Hamilton City Council in detecting the increase. Despite these findings, Watercare has stated that Auckland's drinking water continues to meet safety standards.
2 outlets · Kane Williamson falls just short of century in Christchurch test
New Zealand reached 319-8 on the first day of the first test against England at Hagley Oval. Kane Williamson scored 93 runs before being dismissed, while Shoaib Bashir claimed 4-69 for the visitors. The Black Caps ended the day in a weakened position after a strong start.
2 outlets · Police seek sightings of cyclist following Gisborne homicide
Gisborne Police are investigating the death of 67-year-old Wayne Tamahori Dewes, who died in hospital after sustaining serious injuries in Elgin on 28 October. Investigators are asking for the public to report any sightings of a man on a bicycle in the area during the night of the incident.
2 outlets · New weather radar operational for South Island forecasting
A new $3.5 million MetService weather radar is now operational in Canterbury. The technology aims to provide more detailed and accurate weather information for a large portion of the South Island.
2 outlets · Police vehicle crashes into car carrying Luxon and Willis
A police vehicle collided with a Crown car carrying Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Finance Minister Nicola Willis in Wellington on Wednesday. The Department of Internal Affairs confirmed that no one was injured during the incident. An investigation into the collision is currently underway.
2 outlets · Southland mayor warns of road safety risks due to funding shortfall
Southland Mayor Rob Scott has written to Transport Minister Simeon Brown regarding funding issues for the region's 5,000km road network. The mayor expressed concerns that the shortfall could put lives at risk as the council struggles to maintain the country's second largest network.
2 outlets · Proposed Health NZ restructure could result in significant job losses
Health NZ Te Whatu Ora is consulting with staff regarding restructure proposals across several teams. The Public Service Association claims nearly 1,500 roles are at risk, though the agency disputes these figures. The potential impact of these proposed cuts on public health services remains unknown.
2 outlets · Former All Blacks assistant coach Brad Mooar joins Crusaders
Brad Mooar has been recruited by the Crusaders to assist Rob Penney for the next two seasons. The former All Blacks backs coach, who was dismissed from his national role in 2022, stated he holds no grudges against New Zealand Rugby regarding his departure.
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