Government allocates $100 million for hospital upgrades and maintenance
Health Minister Simeon Brown has announced $100 million from Budget 2025 to fund 21 hospital projects across New Zealand. The investment aims to improve clinical spaces and key infrastructure to ensure hospitals are resilient. These upgrades will be delivered at various locations from Whangārei to Queenstown.
Humpback whale dies after becoming stuck on Otago sand bank
A humpback whale, estimated to be eight to 10 metres long, died after becoming stranded at the mouth of the Waitati River north of Dunedin. The animal was first spotted on Saturday and was found dead on Sunday morning. Department of Conservation staff noted the whale showed signs of sickness and malnutrition.
Man charged after laser pointed at two planes near Wellington Airport
A 35-year-old man has been charged with endangering transport after two commercial aircraft were allegedly targeted by a laser on Saturday evening. Air traffic controllers reported the incidents near Wellington Airport around 6.45pm. The man is due to appear in the Hutt Valley District Court.
Thousands face long waits for hospital radiology scans
Health New Zealand data reveals 18,000 patients had waited more than 42 days for CT or MRI scans by June. The APEX union described the radiology service shortages as grim. The information was obtained via an Official Information Act request.
Man charged with arson after Auckland building fires
A 36-year-old man faces arson charges following two building fires in Newmarket and Epsom on Saturday morning. The fires occurred within a half-hour of each other, and no injuries were reported. The man is expected to appear in the Auckland District Court.
Canterbury faces extreme winds and power outages
A rare red level strong wind warning is in effect for much of Canterbury, with gusts reaching up to 150km/h. Power outages have been reported in parts of the central and lower South Island. Emergency Management Canterbury has urged residents to remain vigilant as extreme weather continues.
Daniel Shand uses wordless plywood signs for Queenstown mayoral campaign
Former parliamentary candidate Daniel Shand has launched a mayoral campaign in Queenstown Lakes using plywood and spray paint. His hoardings feature no words, logos, or photos, representing what is described as a low-budget, deconstructionist approach to election advertising.
Silver Ferns defeat South Africa in Taini Jamison series opener
The Silver Ferns defeated South Africa 77-51 in the opening match of the Taini Jamison series at Eventfinda Stadium in Auckland. The victory follows news that coach Noeline Taurua was stood down for the series.
Public Service Commission details $864 million pay offers for teachers
The Public Service Commission has announced pay offers for school teachers totalling $864 million over four years. The funding includes $449.057 million for primary teachers, $361.833 million for secondary teachers, and $53.243 million for area school teachers. Commissioner Sir Brian Roche stated the offer for primary teachers is at its maximum limit.
Judge upholds original will after caregiver attempted to alter estate
The High Court has upheld the original will of Hubert Burke, an elderly man with dementia. A caregiver had attempted to change the estate by having Burke sign handwritten notes she had penned, which instructed that everything be left to her.
Car ends up in Christchurch river after New Brighton crash
A car became partially submerged in the Avon River following a two-vehicle crash in New Brighton on Saturday night. Police were alerted to the incident near the intersection of Beresford Street and Owles Terrace around 10pm. No injuries were reported, and the occupants of the vehicle managed to escape on their own.




