Winston Peters promises compulsory 10% KiwiSaver and tax cuts
At the NZ First annual conference in Palmerston North, leader Winston Peters pledged to make KiwiSaver compulsory with 10% contributions from both employers and employees. He proposed tax cuts to offset the cost and also suggested a policy requiring migrants to sign a values statement.
Oriini Kaipara wins Tāmaki Makaurau by-election for Te Pāti Māori
Oriini Kaipara has won the Tāmaki Makaurau by-election, defeating Labour's Peeni Henare. Preliminary counts show Kaipara retained approximately 64% of the vote. Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission is reviewing a social media post by Te Pāti Māori MP Tākuta Ferris and certain campaign materials used during the election.
Police hunt two people after armed robbery at Hamilton restaurant
Two people, one carrying a firearm, allegedly stole cash from Smith & McKenzie Steak House in Chartwell on Sunday morning. The robbery occurred around 11.20am as staff prepared for Father's Day. While a getaway vehicle was located nearby, police are still searching for the suspects.
Two All Blacks ruled out of Wellington test against Springboks
Hooker Codie Taylor and Emoni Narawa will miss the upcoming rematch in Wellington due to injuries. Taylor failed a head injury assessment, while Narawa sustained rib damage during Saturday's match at Eden Park. The second test is scheduled for Saturday, 13 September.
Four gang members arrested during Hawke's Bay crackdown
Police arrested four gang members and executed several search warrants following recent violence in Hawke's Bay. The operation was conducted under a Gang Conflict Warrant, which allows for the seizure of weapons and vehicles. The arrested individuals are expected to appear in court in Hastings.
Four skiers found safe after being caught in Treble Cone avalanche
A group of four backcountry skiers was caught in an avalanche near the Treble Cone Ski Field in Wānaka on Saturday. Video footage showed three members of the group being swept away. All four individuals were later accounted for and found safe.
Three arrested after $12,000 worth of tobacco stolen from Tītahi Bay store
Police have arrested three young people following a burglary at a Tītahi Bay store on Thursday night. Officers recovered $12,000 worth of tobacco products in a suitcase after community members reported suspicious behaviour.
Police seek driver after burnouts outside New Plymouth police station
Police are searching for a driver who allegedly performed burnouts on Powerham Street near the New Plymouth police station and district court. The vehicle involved was reportedly unlicensed and unwarranted. Although police signalled for the driver to stop, they allegedly failed to comply.
Person falls into rubbish at Christchurch transfer station
Firefighters from the Anzac station were dispatched to Bromley on Sunday afternoon. Emergency services responded after a person fell into the rubbish area at a transfer station.
Person seriously injured at Waikuku Beach property
A person was seriously injured at a property on Waikuku Beach Road north of Christchurch. Ambulance officers were called to the rural location just before 1.30pm, and the patient was subsequently airlifted to hospital.
Clear skies forecast for total lunar eclipse in New Zealand
A total lunar eclipse is expected tomorrow morning, with clear skies forecast for inland South Island regions. While visibility looks promising in some areas, parts of Northland, Wellington, and the East Coast may experience cloud cover. The maximum eclipse is expected to occur at 6.11am.
Wayne Brown faces criticism at Auckland mayoral debate
Incumbent mayor Wayne Brown attended a debate at the Auckland Chinese Community Centre on Sunday. Rival candidates criticised his performance regarding housing, transport, and infrastructure, with some labelling him the "invisible man". Brown maintained that there is little real competition for the role.
Sir Brian Roche calls latest teacher pay offer fair
Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche has described the latest pay offer for primary school teachers as strong and fair. The offer, which aims to address cost-of-living pressures, was sent to the NZEI on Friday. Union members are expected to vote on the proposal this weekend.
Two people armed with a firearm rob Hamilton steak house
Two offenders entered the Smith & McKenzie Steak House in Chartwell on Sunday morning. One individual was reportedly holding a firearm during the robbery, which resulted in the theft of cash. Staff members have been left shaken by the incident.
Former Carrington Resort manager acquitted of theft and forgery charges
Belle Mumby has been cleared of 14 charges of theft and forgery at the Whangārei District Court. The former operations manager of the Northland luxury resort was facing a five-year legal ordeal following allegations related to her work in 2018 and 2019.
Over 4000 minors detained in police cells last year
New figures released by the Police Minister show more than 4000 instances of people under 18 being held in police cells over the past year. The Children's Commissioner has called for an end to the practice, stating that detaining children poses a risk of self-harm.
Disputes Tribunal orders refund for diseased pedigree cat
A woman was ordered to receive a refund after purchasing a $700 cat that was found to be underweight, unvaccinated, and suffering from rotting teeth and weepy eyes. The animal was later diagnosed with Feline leukaemia virus and required euthanasia. The owner sought compensation for veterinary costs through the Disputes Tribunal.
Body recovered from sea near Raglan after person fell into water
Police have recovered a body from the sea near Te Akau Split Rock. Emergency services were alerted to a person falling into the water on Saturday morning, and a rescue helicopter located the individual shortly after.
Ardie Savea celebrates 100th All Blacks test in victory over Springboks
Ardie Savea marked his 100th test match with an outstanding performance during the All Blacks' 24-17 win against the Springboks at Eden Park on Saturday night. Following the victory, the vice captain expressed a desire to maintain high pressure and urged the team to replicate such performances consistently.










