Search resumes for man missing after Cook Strait jetski crossing attempt
A retired grandfather and Kāpiti Boating Club member is missing after failing to reach Plimmerton Beach from the Tasman District on Monday. His jetski was located near Cook Rock, but the man remains missing. Police and rescue teams have resumed the search operation.
+37 outlets · Man charged with murder after motorcyclist found dead in creek
A 20-year-old man has been charged with murder with a firearm following the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Kyle Jenkins. Jenkins was found dead in a creek near Whangārei on 29 January. The accused appeared in Whangārei District Court and was remanded in custody.
+15 outlets · Chris Bishop reveals Kāinga Ora turnaround plan
Housing Minister Chris Bishop has announced a plan to reform Kāinga Ora following a review led by Sir Bill English. The strategy involves selling approximately 900 state houses annually to fund new builds and retrofits, aiming for a net increase of about 400 social homes each year.
+26 outlets · Remains found in Pureora Forest identified as missing tramper Judy Donovan
Police have confirmed that human remains discovered by a hunter in Pureora Forest belong to 79-year-old Judy Donovan. Ms Donovan had been missing since March last year after becoming separated from her group while bait-lining. The search for her was previously suspended in April 2024 following a large-scale operation.
+26 outlets · Wellington City property values fall by average of 24.4 per cent
Official valuations recorded on 1 September 2024 show average Wellington house values have dropped 24.4% since 2021. Capital values decreased across every suburb, with the average house now valued at $1.08 million. Property owners will receive these new ratings valuations shortly, though lower values do not guarantee a reduction in rates.
+26 outlets · Man critically injured in Birkenhead stabbing
A man was found with critical stab wounds on Birkenhead Avenue by a member of the public. Police have cordoned off the area near the Onewa Road intersection while an investigation into the incident is underway. The victim has been taken to Auckland Hospital.
+15 outlets · Accused Coromandel shooter pleads not guilty to murder and attempted murder
Stu Edmondson has pleaded not guilty to charges relating to a December shooting near Coromandel town. The incident resulted in the death of Kevin Mabbott and left another man seriously injured. Edmondson appeared via video link in the Hamilton High Court and will face trial in 2027.
+26 outlets · Government seeks to reassure exporters over US trade tariffs
Finance Minister Nicola Willis says the government will engage respectfully with the United States to protect trade access. While she stated New Zealand will not be directly affected, economists warn that US tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico could impact KiwiSaver balances.
4 outlets · Auckland real estate agent loses court challenge over mandatory Māori course
Janet Dickson has failed in a High Court judicial review regarding a compulsory 90-minute Māori tikanga training module. The course, which covers culture and the Treaty of Waitangi, was made mandatory for agents in 2023. Dickson now faces a potential five-year ban from practising as a real estate agent.
4 outlets · Truck crash on State Highway 1 near Topuni causes major delays
A milk tanker rolled on State Highway 1 north of Auckland on Monday morning after being clipped by a NZ Post truck crossing the centre line. The crash blocked lanes in both directions, forcing a 33km detour. Police reported no injuries and are seeking the driver who captured dashcam footage of the incident.
4 outlets · Frazer Barton returns as Law Society president after being cleared
New Zealand Law Society president Frazer Barton has resumed his role following a six-month leave of absence. An independent standards committee found no unsatisfactory conduct regarding his involvement in the destruction of historical abuse records at Presbyterian Support Otago. One person interviewed during the investigation described the exoneration as a whitewash.
3 outlets · Te Pāti Māori to demand new Te Tiriti commissioner at Waitangi
Te Pāti Māori has announced a new policy at Waitangi demanding a parliamentary commissioner with the power to audit and overrule legislation violating Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The party co-leaders stated this role would be a bottom line for any potential coalition partners.
+15 outlets · Business owner told to leave Pākōwhai site after buying red-zoned land
Ross Lamborn, owner of Hog Fuel NZ, has been asked to leave his Pākōwhai site just over a month after purchasing the red-zoned land from Hastings District Council. The request follows approximately 20 complaints regarding a bad smell in the area after the green-waste business relocated to the site.
3 outlets · Wanted man arrested in Paihia with machete in his pants
A 31-year-old wanted man was arrested on Sunday afternoon after being spotted walking on Selwyn Street in Paihia. Northland police say a machete was found down the inside of his pants. He has been charged with possession of an offensive weapon and is due in court on 19 February.
3 outlets · Man charged with murder following fatal altercation in Ōpōtiki
A 31-year-old patched Mongrel Mob member has been charged with the murder of Heremaia George Pene. The death occurred on Church Street in Ōpōtiki on Saturday morning following a reported fight involving approximately six people. Two men have been arrested in connection with the incident.
3 outlets · Police seek associate of missing Hutt Valley man
Police are appealing for help to identify an associate of 28-year-old Thomas Basire, who has been missing since late November 2024. Basire was last seen walking towards Petone on a stop bank near Ewen Bridge. He was wearing a red long-sleeved sweatshirt, black trousers, and black sneakers.
3 outlets · More than 21,000 Hutchwilco lifejackets recalled due to faulty inflator
MBIE and Maritime New Zealand have issued a recall for over 21,000 Hutchwilco manual inflatable lifejackets manufactured between June 2021 and May 2022. A fault in the Halkey-Roberts mechanism may prevent the jackets from inflating correctly. Owners are advised to return the products for a refund or a replacement mechanism.
4 outlets · Trump to pause tariffs on Canada and Mexico for 30 days
US President Donald Trump has agreed to a 30-day suspension of threatened tariffs on Canada and Mexico. The pause follows pledges from both nations to increase border and crime enforcement. While these tariffs are delayed, US tariffs on China are expected to take effect shortly.
3 outlets · Officers used excessive force during 2022 arrest of youths
The IPCA found two police officers used excessive force when arresting five youths aged 10 to 14 in southeast Auckland. The incident occurred in September 2022 after police stopped a stolen vehicle. The officers involved will keep their jobs.
3 outlets · Southland enters restricted fire season due to dry conditions
Fire and Emergency New Zealand has implemented a restricted fire season for the Southland District until further notice. High temperatures, strong winds and low rainfall have increased fire risks. Anyone wishing to light an outdoor fire must now obtain a permit.
3 outlets · Mangawhai woman faces long recovery after tornado injuries
Tina Johnson has undergone multiple surgeries to treat injuries sustained when a tornado threw her from her home last month. The storm caused extensive damage in Mangawhai, including the destruction of dozens of homes. A Givealittle page has been launched to assist with her recovery.
3 outlets · Tāhuna Glenorchy named New Zealand's fifth International Dark Sky Sanctuary
The Tāhuna Glenorchy Dark Sky Sanctuary has been certified by DarkSky International. Covering approximately 200,000 hectares at the head of Lake Whakatipu, it is the fifth sanctuary in Aotearoa and the 25th globally.
4 outlets · Government begins global search for new Cook Strait ferries
Rail Minister Winston Peters has announced a worldwide search for two medium-sized vessels to replace the Interislander fleet. The government aims to narrow the list of potential shipbuilders to facilitate a swift deal. Officials are also considering alternatives to newly built ships to meet a 2029 deadline.
+15 outlets · Hamilton man accused of murdering baby to undergo sanity assessment
A 34-year-old man facing murder and attempted murder charges following an incident in Hamilton's Fairfield suburb will undergo a psychological assessment. The assessment will determine if he is fit to stand trial, which is currently scheduled for 2027.
2 outlets · Self-shedding ram sells for $24,500 at Gore Showgrounds
An elite Wiltshire crossed with an Exlana shedding ram has become the highest-priced ram in New Zealand this year. The animal, from breeder Grant Kean of Enfield Genetics, sold for $24,500 at the Gore Showgrounds to a Southland breeder.
2 outlets · Waimakariri District Council seeks feedback on future parking needs
The Waimakariri District Council is asking residents in Rangiora and Kaiapoi for input regarding parking demand for 2040. The consultation will explore potential future requirements and whether residents would be willing to pay for parking spaces.
2 outlets · Police investigate unexplained sudden death in Papatoetoe
Police are investigating an unexplained death in the Auckland suburb of Papatoetoe. Emergency services were called to Matawaka Lane around 6.30pm on Tuesday. Authorities are currently making inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
2 outlets · Taiko Ponsonby food safety rating demoted following illness reports
Auckland Council has lowered the food safety grade of Taiko Ponsonby from A to D. The restaurant is being investigated following reports of a foodborne illness outbreak that caused symptoms such as vomiting and dizziness. Some diners reportedly required an ambulance after becoming unwell.
2 outlets · Coroner rules out foul play in death of Hamilton man
A coroner has found no evidence of foul play in the death of 23-year-old Sheldon Tutai. His body was discovered at a school playground in September 2018. The coroner determined the death was self-inflicted, noting Tutai had been suffering from paranoid schizophrenia.
2 outlets · Three arrested and vehicles impounded following South Auckland funeral procession
Police arrested three people and impounded four vehicles after dangerous driving during a funeral procession in South Auckland on Tuesday. The incident involved dirt bikes blocking an intersection of Great South and Weymouth roads. The procession was travelling from Manurewa to Pukekohe via State Highway 1.
2 outlets · Christchurch residents report high levels of life satisfaction
A biennial Quality of Life survey found that 80% of Christchurch residents are enjoying life in the city. While 77% of New Zealanders overall reported feeling positively about their quality of life, the data suggests a general decline in sentiment across the country.
2 outlets · Man charged with 15 offences following thefts in east Auckland
A 34-year-old man has been charged with 15 offences following a series of thefts in east Auckland. Police allege the man stole more than $10,000 worth of property, including handbags, wallets, and tools, and was also involved in several petrol drive-offs.
2 outlets · Heat alerts issued for Wānaka and Alexandra
MetService has triggered heat alerts for Wānaka and Alexandra as temperatures in Central Otago are expected to exceed 30C. Forecasters have advised the public to stay hydrated, seek shade, and check on vulnerable people, infants, and livestock.
2 outlets · Confusing electronic sign blamed for reduced traffic in Rangitīkei towns
An electronic traffic sign near Bulls is reportedly causing drivers to divert, leaving local businesses struggling. While the sign indicates a closure, State Highway 1 does not actually close until Waiouru, which is 110km further along the route.
+26 outlets · Logging trucks removed from Napier-Taihape Road following safety concerns
Residents living along the Napier-Taihape Road have expressed relief after logging trucks were removed from the narrow, winding highway. Local community members reported numerous close calls and safety concerns regarding the heavy vehicles. The trucks had been using the route following the arrival of the Winstone Pulp International Mill.
2 outlets · Four men plead not guilty to the murder of Boy Taylor
Four men have pleaded not guilty to the murder of 58-year-old Boy Taylor in Napier's CBD last December. Three of the accused have been named, while a fourth man remains under name suppression. The group is scheduled to head to trial next year.
2 outlets · Man charged with attempted murder after hitting cyclist in Paraparaumu
A 33-year-old man appeared in the Wellington High Court charged with attempted murder following an incident on the Kāpiti Coast in December. The defendant, who has interim name suppression, entered no plea. He is scheduled to return to court on 11 April.
2 outlets · Auckland Airport baggage handler sentenced for methamphetamine importation conspiracy
Matangikolo Piukana has been sentenced to eight years in prison for his role in a syndicate importing at least 100kg of methamphetamine. The scheme, which operated through Auckland Airport, was led by King Cobra gang member Nigel Iuvale. The investigation followed a 2021 joint operation between police and Customs.
2 outlets · Labour leads National in latest Talbot Mills poll
The latest Talbot Mills poll shows Labour at 34% support, slightly ahead of National at 33%. The results suggest centre-left parties have enough support to form a government, with Chris Hipkins now the preferred Prime Minister over Christopher Luxon.
2 outlets · Wellington Water to request additional funding from council
Wellington Water chief Pat Dougherty intends to ask the Wellington City Council for more money than was originally budgeted for the next financial year. The organisation has reportedly admitted that funds are not always spent wisely. Council briefings regarding water issues and the annual budget are expected to follow.
3 outlets · Search underway for person missing after jetski trip in Plimmerton
Police are searching for a person who failed to return from a jetski ride in Plimmerton on Monday morning. Search and rescue operations were scheduled to begin on Tuesday morning following the person's disappearance.
2 outlets · New Mitre 10 and retailers planned for Wellington redevelopment
A new Mitre 10, Noel Leeming, and Warehouse Stationery are planned for the Top of Tory shopping complex in Wellington. The Stonewood Group is redeveloping the site following the departure of The Warehouse to revitalise the Te Aro precinct.
2 outlets · Serious injuries reported after vehicle and pedestrian crash on SH3
A vehicle and pedestrian were involved in a crash near the intersection of State Highway 3 and Lower Dudley Road south of Inglewood on Tuesday morning. Police say the incident occurred just after 8am and has resulted in serious injuries. State Highway 3 was blocked following the accident.
3 outlets · Former ACT party president Tim Jago named as sexual abuser
Former ACT party president Tim Jago has had his name suppression waived after a two-year legal battle. Jago was found guilty in an Auckland court of sexually abusing two teenage boys through a sports club during the 1990s. One survivor expressed relief following the decision to name him.
2 outlets · Family of 11-year-old girl killed in Flaxmere cycling crash mourn loss
The parents of Emma-Jane Sylvia Kupa are mourning the 11-year-old girl who died after being hit by a car while cycling in Flaxmere last Thursday. A 34-year-old woman has been charged with driving in a dangerous manner. The family is calling for improved driver behaviour following the accident.
2 outlets · David Seymour's hapū requests he skip Waitangi Day commemorations
Ngāti Rēhia has requested that Act Party Leader David Seymour not attend Waitangi Day celebrations due to the impact of his Treaty Principles Bill. Meanwhile, National Party MPs have met with the hapū at a Kerikeri pā to attempt to repair relationships with Ngāpuhi.
2 outlets · New Zealanders prepare for Waitangi Day commemorations
Tens of thousands are expected to gather in the Bay of Islands for the 185th annual Waitangi Day commemorations. The event will take place in the Far North, with ceremonies including the welcoming of waka at Te Tii Bay.
2 outlets · Hercules transport planes perform final flypasts before retirement
The Royal New Zealand Air Force's C-130H Hercules fleet has been retired after 60 years of service. Five aircraft are performing farewell flypasts over Wellington, the Hutt Valley, and Northland following their retirement from service on Friday.
2 outlets · US tariffs on Canada and Mexico threaten New Zealand exporters
New Zealand exporters face potential disruption following US President Donald Trump's imposition of 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico. While officials suggest 2025 could be a turning point for Kiwi trade, the new tariffs may impact the global trade system.
2 outlets ·
