Woman dies and another is critically injured in Rakaia River incident
A woman has died and another person is in critical condition after quad bikes became stuck while attempting to cross the south side of the Rakaia River mouth. Police say several people were injured during the incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon.
Motorcyclist critically injured in Manurewa crash
A motorcyclist sustained critical injuries following a serious crash on Great South Rd in Manurewa on Saturday morning. Emergency services were called to the scene near Mahia Rd around 11.20am. Police have closed the northbound lanes of the road.
Motorcyclist dies in crash with ute near Whanganui
A man has died following a collision between a motorbike and a ute on Parihauhau Road in Parikino. The crash occurred around 1.40pm, leaving the motorcyclist deceased and the vehicle occupants uninjured. The Serious Crash Unit is investigating, and the road remains closed for scene examination.
Man charged after NZDF called to Hamilton police station
A 29-year-old man faces charges after police found firearms and an item of concern in Hamilton. The suspected explosive device was accidentally taken into a police station, prompting the NZDF to be called to the scene.
FBI shares information with NZ police regarding religious sect abuse
The FBI is collaborating with New Zealand police as part of a global investigation into alleged sexual abuse within the Two by Twos religious group. The US agency is sharing information and has requested that anyone with details or potential victims complete an online questionnaire.
Search continues for missing Argentinian hiker in Mount Aspiring National Park
Authorities are searching for 21-year-old Hector Gastón Artigau in Mount Aspiring National Park. The Argentinian man, who is on a working holiday visa, reportedly fell from a rock into a river while hiking on the Rob Roy Glacier Track on Thursday evening.
SPCA to pay $29,000 after flawed dismissal of worker
The Employment Relations Authority has awarded Jasmine De Groot $29,000 in compensation and back pay. The former SPCA volunteer coordinator was dismissed for alleged serious misconduct in late 2023, but the authority found the dismissal process was disproportionate and flawed.
Expert says New Zealand must be robust regarding Gaza and Trump
Otago University professor Robert Patman suggests New Zealand should provide a strong response to the situation in Gaza. He argues the country should also support its allies against threats made by US President Donald Trump.
Fire destroys Roxburgh Town Hall and historic cinema
A fire in central Otago has destroyed the Roxburgh Town Hall and its 128-year-old cinema. Eight firefighting crews attended the blaze, which ended what may have been the longest continuous cinema run in the world.
Local board supports mural for late Fa'anānā Efeso Collins
The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board has unanimously backed a proposal for a mural in Manukau to honour Fa'anānā Efeso Collins. The former politician and social justice advocate died in February 2024 after collapsing at a charity fundraiser in Britomart. The mural concept is currently awaiting final approval.
Police launch manhunt after stabbing in Titirangi
A person was taken to hospital with serious injuries following a stabbing on Woodlands Park Road in Titirangi. Police were called to the scene around 7.15pm and report that the victim was stabbed by someone known to them.
MSD found wrong to refuse food grant for tangi
The Social Security Appeal Authority ruled that the Ministry of Social Development incorrectly refused a $1,026 payment for food costs during a tangihanga. The authority stated that providing kai is an essential ritual in Māori custom. The Ministry will not appeal the decision.
Scott Point residents protest Auckland Transport road delays
West Auckland residents are frustrated by a two-month delay in painting road markings on the Craigs Way Extension. Locals have begun using the road and using chalk to leave messages for Auckland Transport. Some motorists started using the area in early January after barriers were moved.
Man found dead on Maketū Beach shoreline
A man was found unresponsive at the northern end of Maketū Beach in the Bay of Plenty on Saturday afternoon. Emergency services were alerted just after 4pm, but the man could not be revived. His death will be referred to the coroner.
Firefighters respond to property blaze in Cockle Bay
Fire and Emergency crews attended a fire at a Cockle Bay property in East Auckland on Saturday afternoon. Multiple vehicles and a fire investigator were sent to the scene following several emergency calls. The blaze involved a garage at the residence.
Police search for man who hitched ride on Wellington-bound train
Police are searching for a man who was seen hanging off the back of a train travelling from the Hutt Valley on Friday evening. The individual, who was reportedly holding a skateboard, exited at Ngauranga Station but left before officers could reach him.
Wellington mother faces bill of over $1000 for school uniform
A Wellington woman expressed concern after receiving a school uniform bill exceeding $1000 for her son. The costs for the Wellington College kit include items such as a blazer, rain jacket, and physical education shirt. Financial coach Shula Newland noted that high school uniforms often incur higher expenses.
Health official may override Whangārei decision on water fluoridation
The Director-General of Health has warned that she may intervene to fluoridate Whangārei's drinking water if the district council fails to comply with a government directive. The council is currently the only one of 14 refusing the measure, which must be implemented by 28 March. Ratepayers could face nearly $5 million in additional costs.
Transport Minister signals public consultation on speed limit changes
Transport Minister Chris Bishop has indicated that public consultation may occur regarding some speed limit reversals. These changes are part of a government commitment to undo speed limit reductions implemented by the previous Labour Government.
Warriors draw 12-12 against Sharks in pre-season trial
The Auckland-based Warriors played to a 12-12 draw against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in their first pre-season match. Both teams used multiple substitutions during the fixture, which resulted in a scrappy performance from the sides.
















