Winston Peters declares war on woke in Christchurch speech
NZ First leader Winston Peters declared a "war on woke" during a State of the Nation speech at Christchurch's James Hay Theatre. The nearly hour-long address was interrupted several times by protesters. Peters used the speech to target diversity, equity and inclusion policies while looking toward the 2026 election.
One person dead after single-vehicle crash in Owaka
One person has died following a single-vehicle crash on Owaka Valley Road on Sunday afternoon. Emergency services were called to the scene around 2.45pm, where a vehicle reportedly went through a fence and into a ditch. The Serious Crash Unit is examining the site and the road remains closed.
One person dead and two injured in Wellington motorway crash
One driver died at the scene after two cars collided on State Highway 1 in Kaiwharawhara around 11.30pm on Saturday. Two other people were taken to Wellington Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency services attended the northbound lane collision.
Driver charged after 12 people injured in Taupō crash
A driver has been charged following a head-on collision between a van and an SUV on State Highway 5 near Rangitāiki School. The crash, which occurred around 10.30am on Sunday, injured 12 people, including four seriously. Emergency services responded with multiple ambulances and four helicopters to the scene.
US government cuts funding for New Zealand scientific celebration
The Donald Trump administration has cancelled a grant of approximately NZ$51,580 intended for a Washington function. The event was meant to mark 150 years of scientific cooperation between New Zealand and the United States. Universities New Zealand says there are currently no plans for an alternative event.
United Nations report questions fairness of New Zealand's GST
A United Nations committee has questioned the fairness of New Zealand's GST. The committee for economic, social and cultural rights stated that consumption taxes can negatively impact disadvantaged groups, such as low-income families, who spend a higher proportion of their income on everyday goods.
Police respond to reports of firearms discharged near Warkworth
Armed police responded to a serious incident on Goatley Road near Warkworth on Sunday afternoon following reports of firearms being discharged. The incident led to the closure of State Highway 1, and officers have been speaking with two people regarding the callout.
Two men charged with murder after fatal Wairarapa shooting
Two men have been jointly charged with murder following a daylight shooting in Wairarapa on Saturday. A man was shot while leaving a Featherston supermarket and later died near a Carterton supermarket. Police have maintained a presence across the region following the incident.
Two men charged with murder after man shot in Wairarapa
Two men, aged 23 and 25, have been charged with murder following a shooting in Featherston that left a man dead in Carterton. Police are investigating whether other parties were involved in the incident. The suspects are expected to appear in Wellington District Court tomorrow.
Napier residents rally over declining urgent healthcare services
Approximately 200 people protested in Napier on Sunday regarding the reduction of urgent overnight healthcare services. Napier Mayor Wise addressed the crowd, suggesting the formation of a health action group. The rally follows a recent government announcement regarding an enhanced solution for the region.
Hawke's Bay weed boat driver helps keep streams flowing
Rodger Shaw, a catchment worker for the Hawke's Bay Regional Council, operates a weed boat to maintain local streams. He enjoys the role for the opportunity to work outdoors and see parts of the region that most people do not visit.
Artist loses Supreme Court appeal over copyright as relationship property
Marlborough-based artist Sirpa Alalääkkölä has lost a Supreme Court appeal regarding the copyright of her artwork. The court upheld a decision that while she retains sole legal ownership, the copyright must be shared with her ex-husband as relationship property.
Man charged after allegedly presenting firearm in Palmerston North
A 19-year-old man was arrested on Saturday following reports of a firearm being presented at police and members of the public in West End. The incident occurred on Thomson Street around 5.40pm. No shots were fired and no injuries were reported.
Hundreds march in Wellington to support access to gender-affirming care
Hundreds of people marched on Parliament in Wellington to protest potential changes to how puberty blockers are prescribed. The protest follows government signals regarding the regulation of these prescriptions for young people.
Former All Blacks player and coach Alex Wyllie dies aged 80
Former All Blacks loose forward and head coach Alex 'Grizz' Wyllie has died at age 80 in Picton. Wyllie earned 11 test caps and played 40 games for New Zealand, and previously coached the team at two World Cups.
Man arrested following retail offending in central Auckland
A 49-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a series of crimes at central Auckland retail stores. He faces nine charges of aggravated assault and five charges of theft, alongside several other offences. The man is scheduled to appear in Auckland District Court tomorrow.
Crusaders defeat Blues at Eden Park to signal return to form
The Crusaders secured a 42-19 victory over the Blues at Eden Park on Saturday night. This win follows a difficult previous season where the Crusaders won only four games. The result suggests the team has returned to title contention status.
Luxon defends freedom of speech following visit to India
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has concluded a five-day visit to India, where he held talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the trip, Luxon defended New Zealand's right to free speech and lawful protest. He also expressed pride in the achievements of the large New Zealand delegation.










