Winston Peters unveils plan for new Interislander rail ferries
Minister for Rail Winston Peters has announced a plan for two new rail ferries to replace the Interislander fleet by 2029. The new vessels will feature rail decks and measure approximately 200m long. While Picton's marine infrastructure requires replacement, Wellington's infrastructure will be modified and reused.
+15 outlets · Green MP Benjamin Doyle receives death threats following Winston Peters' comments
The Green Party is calling on Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to intervene after Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters commented on Benjamin Doyle's social media account. The party says Peters' statements have prompted an immense number of death threats and abuse against the MP.
+26 outlets · Businessman Ivan van de Water killed in Central Otago plane crash
Former jeweller Ivan van de Water died on Saturday when a light aircraft crashed in the Dingle Burn Valley near Lake Hāwea. He was one of two people on board, and his passenger was flown to hospital in critical condition.
+26 outlets · Police seek information about car linked to Miramar homicide and burglary
Police are appealing for information regarding a grey or silver Mazda Atenza seen in Miramar on March 17. The vehicle and certain clothing items are being sought as part of an investigation into a homicide and aggravated burglary. A 28-year-old man has been charged with aggravated burglary.
4 outlets · Auckland Transport to increase parking fees from mid-April
Parking prices at most Auckland Transport-managed carparks and on-street spaces will rise by 50 cents per hour starting 14 April. The agency stated the increase, which also affects daily caps, is due to rising operational costs and high demand.
4 outlets · Three dogs euthanised after fatal attack on Katikati child
Three adult dogs have been euthanised following a fatal attack on four-year-old Timothy Tu'uaki Rolleston-Bryan in Katikati last Friday. Western Bay of Plenty District Council animal services officers assisted police in removing the dogs from a property north of the suburb. The boy died after being critically injured during the incident.
4 outlets · Government announces steps to introduce supermarket competition
The Government has launched a request for information to help bring new supermarket challengers into the market. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the move aims to challenge the current duopoly, though Labour has criticised the plan as merely paying lip service to reform promises.
+15 outlets · Health New Zealand halts restructuring in three areas
Health New Zealand has stopped planned restructuring and change proposals for the National Public Health Service, data analytics, and community mental health divisions. The decision follows cost savings and an agreement with the Public Service Association. Some of the more than 50 staff members who took early exits may now be eligible to return.
+26 outlets · Kaeo rest home criticised for failing to escalate care for resident
The Health and Disability Commissioner found Kauri Lodge failed to provide an appropriate standard of care to a 69-year-old woman in 2021. Despite family concerns regarding stroke symptoms, the resident was prescribed anti-depressants as her health rapidly declined before she died.
4 outlets · Living wage to increase to $28.95 per hour from September
The living wage will rise by $1.15 to $28.95 per hour starting 1 September. This increase applies to employees and contractors of 342 accredited living wage employers. The adjustment follows a minimum wage increase to $23.50 on 1 April.
3 outlets · Government to reduce health and safety rules for small businesses
The Minister for Workplace Relations plans to cut health and safety regulations for low-risk businesses. The government is also launching a hotline to allow the public to report excessive road cone use. Labour has criticised the proposed changes, describing them as reckless.
3 outlets · Woman killed in Lower Hutt car crash identified by police
Police have identified 60-year-old Vanessa Rithia Houpapa as the woman who died after being hit by a car in Naenae last Thursday. The incident occurred on Cambridge Terrace and involved two people being hit. A woman has been charged with excess breath alcohol causing injury and death.
3 outlets · Two new Cook Strait rail ferries to enter service in 2029
Rail Minister Winston Peters has announced two new rail-enabled ferries will enter service in 2029 to replace the aging Interislander fleet. Procurement for the vessels is expected to begin next month. The minister stated the new project will be significantly cheaper than the previous iRex project.
+15 outlets · One person dead in fatal crash near Haruru
A driver died at the scene following a collision between a truck and another vehicle on State Highway 11 near Haruru on Monday afternoon. Two people in the truck sustained moderate injuries. A section of the highway has been closed following the incident.
3 outlets · Luca Fairgray jailed for four and a half years
Luca Fairgray has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison for three charges of sexual connection with a 13-year-old girl. The offending occurred in 2023 when Fairgray was 20 years old. He also has previous convictions for assaults against six teenage girls.
3 outlets · Woman in hospital after three children stabbed in Sydney home
A woman is in hospital under police guard following the stabbing of three children in Baulkham Hills on Monday morning. Police report the children, aged 10, 13, and 16, were allegedly attacked while sleeping. The woman is suspected of attempting to kill the children before turning the knife on herself.
3 outlets · Lando Norris responds to book from Timaru primary school students
Formula One driver Lando Norris has filmed a video responding to a book of illustrated letters sent by students at Oceanview Heights School in Timaru. The McLaren driver reviewed the book, which was compiled by Room 3 students, on the team's social media channel.
+15 outlets · Green MP Tamatha Paul plays anti-police songs during DJ set
Wellington Central MP Tamatha Paul played songs critical of the police during a DJ set at the CubaDupa festival over the weekend. This follows recent comments from the Green Party spokesperson regarding police patrol officers in Wellington. The Green Party has stated they have more significant issues to address than the music played.
+15 outlets · Authorities crack down on influencers promoting offshore online casinos
The Department of Internal Affairs has issued its first takedown notices to social media influencers promoting illegal offshore gambling. Authorities warned that those failing to remove the content face significant fines under the Gambling Act. This action follows a surge in influencers advertising overseas online casinos.
4 outlets · Reserve Bank to review bank capital requirements
The Reserve Bank is reassessing how much capital banks must hold in reserve following criticism that the rules are too costly. Board chair Neil Quigley told a parliamentary committee that international experts will be called in to assist with the review.
4 outlets · Winston Peters to reveal plans for Interislander ferry replacements
Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters is expected to outline a new plan for replacing Interislander ferries today. The update will detail the types of vessels required and infrastructure plans, including costs for port upgrades. This follows the previous government's decision to scrap the iReX ferry project.
3 outlets · Serious two-vehicle crash on Hamilton's Wairere Road
Emergency services responded to a serious two-vehicle crash on Wairere Road in Queenwood, Hamilton, around 7.12am. Initial reports indicate that the incident has resulted in serious injuries.
3 outlets · One person dies in single-vehicle crash near Ōtorohanga
A person died at the scene following a single-vehicle crash on Kawhia Road in Ōpārau on Sunday night. Emergency services were called to the incident near Ōtorohanga at approximately 8.45pm. The Serious Crash Unit has been involved.
3 outlets · Stolen tiny home recovered by Katikati community
A completed show home was stolen from Tiny House Builders on Rea Rd in Katikati around 4am on Saturday. Following a social media appeal by managing director Rebecca McLean, the community helped locate and return the home within three hours.
2 outlets · Wellington restaurant owner says dining out should be a luxury
Asher Boote has closed his Wellington restaurant, Daisy's, after the business shut down this weekend. Boote believes meals are currently underpriced and that customers do not recognise the true costs of food and staff wages.
3 outlets · Dunedin nurse loses registration following professional misconduct findings
Jennifer Scott has had her nursing registration cancelled by the Nursing Council of New Zealand. The decision follows findings that she engaged in professional misconduct through malicious campaigns against transgender people and the Covid-19 vaccination roll-out.
4 outlets · Queenstown councillor claims due process failures over removal from committees
The Queenstown Lakes District Council is removing councillor Niki Gladding from several committees. Gladding, who previously leaked information regarding plans to pump treated sewage into the Shotover River, claims the council is failing to follow due process in its decision.
2 outlets · Wellington mayoral candidate has not revealed buyer of Wellington Live
Graham Bloxham, a candidate for Wellington mayor, has missed a deadline to announce the new owner of his social media company, Wellington Live. The local body elections are scheduled to take place on 11 October.
2 outlets · Large weather system to bring heavy rain and wind to New Zealand
Forecasters warn an atmospheric river will bring heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the country from Wednesday. The weather system is expected to impact northern and western areas of both islands. Overnight temperatures are also predicted to rise into the mid-to-high-teens for many locations.
2 outlets · Health NZ prioritises reducing specialist wait times
Health New Zealand is focusing on reducing specialist wait times after a report showed overdue appointments quadrupled between 2020 and 2024. A team of senior clinicians is being sent to Nelson Hospital following concerns raised by doctors regarding staffing levels and patient safety.
2 outlets · NZME delays shareholders meeting following takeover bid
NZME has postponed its annual shareholders meeting until June after directors expressed concerns regarding a takeover proposal. The board is resisting plans by Canadian billionaire Jim Grenon to remove current directors and install himself, citing risks regarding potential editorial control.
2 outlets · Two new Auckland charter schools to open
Associate Education Minister David Seymour has announced that Tōtara Park School and Twin Oaks Classical School will join existing charter schools in Auckland. Tōtara Park is expected to open in Term 1 next year, starting with students from years one to four.
2 outlets · Driver sentenced for causing death of Madison Chamberlain on Muriwai Beach
Jesse Hodge has been sentenced following a January 2024 incident where his Toyota Hilux flipped on Muriwai Beach. The vehicle rollover killed 19-year-old Madison Chamberlain while she was in the back tray. During sentencing at Waitakere District Court, family members addressed the driver regarding the fatal accident.
2 outlets · Prime Minister Christopher Luxon holds post-Cabinet press conference
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon is facing questions regarding comments made by Winston Peters about Green Party MP Benjamin Doyle. The Green Party has called for intervention, alleging that Doyle has received numerous death threats. Other announcements include health and safety reforms and plans for two new rail ferries.
2 outlets · Damian McKenzie re-signs with New Zealand Rugby until 2029
All Blacks utility Damian McKenzie has committed to New Zealand Rugby through the 2029 season. The decision follows significant interest in the player moving offshore. The deal includes a sabbatical scheduled for 2028.
2 outlets · Large vegetation fire burns on steep terrain near Mangakahia
More than 20 firefighters are battling a large scrub fire at Nukutawhiti, northwest of Whangārei. Emergency crews, including two helicopters and four fire trucks, are working on the steep terrain. Volunteer firefighters managed to save a home that was surrounded by the blaze.
2 outlets · Treated wastewater discharge into Shotover River begins
The Queenstown Lakes District Council has begun discharging treated effluent into the Shotover River. At least 12,000 cubic metres of wastewater will be pumped into the river daily via a newly-cleared channel on the Shotover Delta.
3 outlets · State Highway 2 closed near Waikino following serious two-vehicle crash
State Highway 2 through the Karangahake Gorge has been closed following a serious crash involving two vehicles. The incident occurred near School Road just before 1pm. Police say there are indications of serious injuries, and motorists have been warned of delays.
3 outlets · Former teacher takes Christchurch Boys’ High School to employment tribunal
Susan Mowat is providing evidence at an Employment Relations Authority hearing in Christchurch regarding her claim of unjustified dismissal. The former teacher alleges her relationship with headmaster Nic Hill deteriorated during her final two years at the school. The five-day investigation hearing began on Sunday.
4 outlets · Red Cross apologises after staff member's overtaking attempt caught on camera
Red Cross New Zealand has apologised after footage showed a staff member in a branded hatchback driving on the wrong side of the road. The vehicle forced oncoming traffic onto the shoulder during an overtaking attempt.
3 outlets · Karl Tiefenbacher announces bid for Wellington mayoralty
Business owner Karl Tiefenbacher has officially entered the Wellington mayoral race as an independent candidate. He also intends to run for councillor for the Motukaira ward. Tiefenbacher aims to prioritise changing the culture between council staff and councillors.
2 outlets · Crown apologises to Ngāti Hāua for Treaty breaches
Ngāti Hāua has signed a deed of settlement with the Crown at Ngāpūwaiwaha Marae in Taumarunui. The settlement includes an apology for the Crown's historical actions that caused discord, death, and division for the iwi.
+15 outlets · Man critically injured after falling from moving trailer in Dunedin
A man is in intensive care after falling from a moving trailer on Brockville Road on Saturday. Police say the incident followed an alleged argument between two men. The driver of the vehicle is facing charges following the fall.
2 outlets · GPs say 15-minute consultations contribute to long patient wait times
General practitioners claim that 15-minute consultations and administrative burdens are causing long wait times for patients. Data from Stats NZ indicates that one in four New Zealanders avoid visiting a GP due to appointment delays.
+15 outlets · Four firearms found in guitar case during Auckland police callout
Police seized a rifle, a shotgun, and two pistols from a guitar case in Ōrākei on Sunday. Officers responded to a report of a person seen with a possible weapon on Kitemoana Street. The firearms were located inside a vehicle parked outside a property.
2 outlets · Security increased at Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown's home
An unmarked security car and new CCTV cameras have been installed outside Mayor Wayne Brown's apartment. This measure follows threatening messages posted on social media directed at the Mayor.
2 outlets · Wellington families pay more for childcare than other regions
Data shows Wellington families on lower and middle incomes spend an average of $159 per week on early childhood education. This is higher than in Canterbury, where families spend $121 per week, and also more than in Auckland.
3 outlets · Winston Peters announces plan for two new Cook Strait rail ferries
Rail Minister Winston Peters has revealed the Government's plan to acquire two new rail ferries for the Cook Strait. The announcement details the intended ferry types and the infrastructure required for the project.
2 outlets · Security guard texts revealed regarding Golriz Ghahraman supermarket incident
Text messages from a Foodstuffs security worker to police have been released following an incident involving former MP Golriz Ghahraman at a Royal Oak supermarket. The messages expressed a desire for Ghahraman to be charged. Police ultimately decided not to lay charges, citing a lack of public interest.
4 outlets · Finley Melville Ives wins freeski halfpipe world championship title
Wānaka teenager Finley Melville Ives has been crowned the men's freeski halfpipe world champion in Switzerland. Competing in his first World Championships, the 18-year-old secured the gold medal after scoring 96.00 on his first run in Corvatsch.
2 outlets · ASB Polyfest celebrates 50th anniversary this week
The ASB Polyfest is celebrating its 50th anniversary from April 2 to 5 at the Manukau Sports Bowl. The festival provides a platform for students to express and celebrate their cultures. This year marks five decades of the event, which is described as the world's largest Polynesian cultural festival.
2 outlets · Atheist expert supports maintaining tax exemptions for churches
The government is reviewing tax laws that allow most churches to operate as tax-free religious charities. While critics argue this provides an unfair advantage, an atheist professor suggests that removing these exemptions would be devastating for New Zealand society.
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