Government to offer premium payments for land acquisition for infrastructure
The Government plans to amend the Public Works Act to accelerate land acquisition for major infrastructure projects. Landowners may receive incentive payments for voluntary sales, and the process for objections will move from the Environment Court to the Land Information Minister or local authorities.
+26 outlets · Crusaders secure bonus-point win over Reds in Christchurch
The Crusaders defeated the Reds 43-19 at Apollo Projects Stadium to climb the Super Rugby Pacific ladder. All Blacks Sevu Reece and Will Jordan each scored two tries for the home side. The victory included a bonus point for the Crusaders.
3 outlets · Man Up group protests Wellington Pride Parade
Approximately 30 to 40 members of the Man Up group blocked a Wellington Pride Parade by performing a haka. Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki said the protests were strategically planned to protect children. Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau stated the protesters were not welcome.
+37 outlets · Sprint car driver critically injured in Ruapuna Speedway crash
A sprint car competitor was critically injured after their vehicle crashed at Ruapuna Speedway near Christchurch on Saturday evening. Emergency services attended the scene in Templeton, and subsequent races were cancelled. Police are currently making inquiries into the single-vehicle accident.
3 outlets · Whangārei District Council holds emergency meeting on water fluoridation
Whangārei District Council is holding a sudden, closed-door emergency meeting on Tuesday morning regarding the fluoridation of its drinking water. The meeting occurs shortly before the government's 28 March deadline for the council to implement fluoridation.
4 outlets · Catlins beach vehicle rules to be revisited after sea lion harassment
Clutha District councillors will revisit the decision to allow vehicles on Catlins beaches following an incident where motorists harassed an endangered sea lion. The harassment reportedly occurred over two days at Tautuku in January.
+26 outlets · Police rule out foul play in Wairoa man's death
Christopher Royce Durdy, 73, was found unresponsive at a Lucknow Street property in Wairoa on Wednesday. Emergency services attended the scene where he was pronounced dead. Police have since confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
2 outlets · Te Korowai o Wainuiārua claims settlement bill passes Parliament
The Te Korowai o Wainuiārua Claims Settlement Bill passed its second and third readings in a single session on Thursday. The settlement addresses historical grievances involving land loss and 19th-century warfare. While iwi leaders expressed joy, they also noted feelings of apprehension regarding the future.
3 outlets · Large garage fire in Minden causes explosions and falling ash
Firefighters battled a large garage fire in Minden on Sunday night, which required additional resources after reaching a third alarm. The blaze reportedly caused gas canisters to explode, resulting in billowing smoke and falling ash across the community.
2 outlets · Auckland FC holds on for 1-1 draw against Newcastle Jets
Auckland FC secured a 1-1 draw against the Newcastle Jets at McDonald Jones Stadium despite playing with ten men. The result leaves the club six points clear at the top of the A-League standings.
2 outlets · Police seek help finding 14-year-old girl missing from Auckland school
Police are searching for Skyla Cannon, who has been missing since Thursday morning. The 14-year-old was dropped off at Albany Junior High School but left the premises within 15 minutes. Authorities are asking the public for assistance in locating her.
2 outlets · Far North lawyer struck off for sharing child abuse images
Vaughn Hill, a 46-year-old former Far North lawyer, has been banned from practising law. The disciplinary action follows his 2024 imprisonment for possessing child sex abuse images that he shared on social media. Hill did not challenge the decision at a recent hearing.
3 outlets · Sam Tanner and Sam Ruthe share 1500m national title
Olympian Sam Tanner and 15-year-old Sam Ruthe recorded a dead heat in the 1500 metres at the national athletics championships. The race took place at the Caledonian Ground in Dunedin, resulting in the two athletes sharing the title.
2 outlets · Health minister considering new target for GP wait times
Health Minister Simeon Brown is seeking advice on implementing a new health target focused on primary care wait times. While the government has reintroduced several health targets, none currently address primary healthcare. Brown stated he wants to ensure GPs receive the necessary resources and support.
2 outlets · Northland suburb sees significant drop in median house values
The Wellington suburb of Northland has experienced a 30.6% decrease in median property values. According to CoreLogic data, values fell from a peak of $1.42 million in December 2021 to $985,000 by the end of February.
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