Government considers breaking up supermarket duopoly to increase competition
Finance Minister Nicola Willis has announced that the Government is considering various interventions to boost competition in the supermarket sector. Options being explored include the restructuring or break-up of the current duopoly. A formal request for information has been issued to potential challengers regarding necessary regulatory changes.
One person dead and another critical after Lake Hāwea plane crash
A light plane crashed in the Dingleburn Valley near Lake Hāwea on Saturday afternoon. One occupant died at the scene, while the second person was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital in critical condition. Police are investigating the incident for the coroner and the Civil Aviation Authority.
Drone survey shows massive sand loss at Mangawhai sandspit
An aerial drone survey has revealed that more than 420,000 tonnes of sand have been lost from the Mangawhai sandspit over six years. This loss, equivalent to approximately 26,000 truckloads, affects the protective barrier for the Northland township. The findings were presented to local council and community representatives in March.
New Zealander deported from Australia following violent domestic assault
Kyle Walters is being deported to New Zealand after being jailed for 18 months in Australia for a violent domestic assault. Authorities deemed him a serious risk due to his history of family violence. Walters had lived in Australia for the past 10 years.
Black Ferns Sevens win Hong Kong world series title
The Black Ferns Sevens defeated Australia 26-19 to win the Hong Kong world series tournament. Jorja Miller scored two tries to help secure the victory after the team previously beat Canada 41-0 in the semifinals. This win marks three consecutive Hong Kong titles for the New Zealand side.
Thousands attend Te Āhuareka o Ngāti Hine Festival at Ōtiria Marae
Thousands of people gathered at Ōtiria Marae near Moerewa for the biennial Te Āhuareka o Ngāti Hine Festival. The three-day event featured kapa haka and food to celebrate Ngāti Hine culture. Ngāti Hine leader Pita Tipene noted high attendance from various iwi and hapū.
Former Whangamōmona vice-president jailed for historical sexual offending
Bryan Ramage has been sentenced to seven years in prison for sexually and indecently abusing three teenagers nearly two decades ago. The 69-year-old former vice-president of Whangamōmona, who ran a horse trekking business, received the sentence in a district court.
Man rescued from burning yacht off the Hawke’s Bay coast
A yachtsman was rescued after his boat caught fire and sank northeast of Cape Kidnappers on Saturday. Kyle Sykes and his two crew mates spotted smoke while fishing and intervened during the midday blaze. Sykes has since recounted the ordeal of saving the man from the burning vessel.
Auckland woman advocates for drink spiking awareness after being targeted
Gaby Ivanov-Giraldo is campaigning to increase awareness of drink spiking and reduce victim shame. After her drink was spiked at an Auckland bar last year, the writer began sharing her experience to highlight the ongoing issue.
Film festival cuts three roles to remain viable
The Whānau Mārama New Zealand International Film Festival has disestablished three full-time positions to ensure its survival. Board chair Kaine Thompson stated the changes were necessary for the festival to continue operating ahead of its upcoming season.
Police investigate fatal dog attack near Katikati
Investigations are ongoing following a dog attack on Friday that killed a four-year-old boy near Katikati in the Bay of Plenty. Three dogs are currently in the custody of the Western Bay of Plenty District Council.
Australians report higher happiness and social cohesion than New Zealanders
A Helen Clark Foundation report finds Australians score higher on social cohesion and happiness than New Zealanders. The analysis suggests Kiwis are less satisfied with their finances and have a lower sense of worth compared to their Australian counterparts.






