Police release CCTV images of missing Christchurch teenager
New CCTV footage has been released showing 17-year-old Marley Purdue on Whitewash Head Rd in Scarborough last Friday. His vehicle was later found in Sumner, and search and rescue teams are now focusing on the coastline between Godley Head and Pines Beach.
+26 outlets · Psychologist and broadcaster Nigel Latta dies aged 58
Renowned clinical psychologist, author, and television personality Nigel Latta has died following a battle with stomach cancer. His family confirmed he passed away on Tuesday, 30 September. He was 58 years old.
+37 outlets · Wintry blast brings snow and road closures to South Island
A southerly flow from Antarctica has brought snow and freezing temperatures to parts of the South Island. State Highway 87 between Middlemarch and Outram is closed due to snow and ice, while a snowfall warning remains in place for Lewis Pass.
+15 outlets · Northland farmer banned from owning deer after neglect case
Niven John Lowrie has been banned from owning or managing deer for three years following a neglect case in Northland. The 66-year-old was sentenced in the Manukau District Court after inspectors found 14 carcasses and more than 145 undernourished animals on his property.
4 outlets · Former commercial fisher fined $50,000 for illegal seaweed sales
Ryan Campbell McManaway was fined $50,000 at the Invercargill District Court for illegally selling seaweed online. The 36-year-old was sentenced in his absence following a Ministry for Primary Industries prosecution regarding the sale of liquid seaweed fertiliser.
+15 outlets · Government to support infrastructure investment to address high power prices
The Government has announced it is prepared to support capital funding requests for strategic electricity infrastructure projects. This follows a review finding that major generators have been reluctant to invest due to uncertainty. Finance Minister Nicola Willis confirmed the Crown will maintain its 51% stake in these power companies.
4 outlets · TVNZ reporter faces cross-examination in Talley’s defamation case
TVNZ reporter Thomas Mead has completed three days of questioning in the High Court regarding his reporting on Talley’s health and safety practices. The defamation lawsuit involves scrutiny of the journalist's sources, interview transcriptions, and personal messages.
3 outlets · Woman sentenced for attempted murder following hammer attack in Hamilton
Sarangi Karamea Jaque-Odell Lim has been sentenced after admitting to an attempted murder in a Hamilton shopping centre car park in June 2024. The attack occurred after the victim questioned why a baby was eating cigarettes. The victim has since expressed a willingness to forgive the attacker.
4 outlets · United States imposes 10% tariff on New Zealand timber exports
US President Donald Trump has confirmed a 10% tariff on all softwood lumber and timber imported from New Zealand. While the rate is lower than the 15% baseline for most goods, industry representatives warn the move will have significant financial repercussions for the forestry sector.
3 outlets · Fire damages dozens of vehicles at Marlborough property linked to cold case
Firefighters contained a blaze that damaged almost 30 cars at a Canvastown property on Wednesday morning. Police have previously searched the site regarding the 2019 disappearance of Jessica Boyce. Authorities stated there is currently no information suggesting the fire is connected to the unsolved case.
3 outlets · Environment Minister accused of conflict of interest over water consents
Penny Simmonds has been accused of using her position to influence a council's legal process regarding water consents for Manawatū farms. The dispute involves farms belonging to a small group, including the family farm of National MP Suze Redmayne. Simmonds maintains that engaging with the primary sector is wholly appropriate.
+15 outlets · Carter Holt Harvey plywood plant closure to impact Tokoroa workers
The Carter Holt Harvey plywood plant in Kinleith is expected to close in November, resulting in the loss of 119 jobs. This follows a paper mill shutdown in June that cut 130 roles. Some workers are now looking for employment in other towns or overseas.
3 outlets · Immigration tribunal grants residency to 84-year-old widow facing deportation
An 84-year-old widow has won an appeal to stay in New Zealand and avoid deportation to Iran. The Immigration and Protection Tribunal granted her residency because her son's national security work in New Zealand would prevent him from safely returning to live with her in Tehran.
+15 outlets · Firefighters to strike for one hour after rejecting pay offer
The New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union has announced a one-hour strike on 17 October. Members rejected the latest pay offer from Fire and Emergency New Zealand, citing concerns regarding pay, staffing, health and safety, and equipment. FENZ expressed disappointment following the union's announcement.
3 outlets · New fire trucks cannot fit essential rescue gear
New Zealand's newest fire engines are unable to be used for rescues because they are too small to accommodate all necessary lifesaving equipment. Firefighters reported having to leave gear on station floors. Fire and Emergency New Zealand stated the situation is not ideal but is working on a solution.
3 outlets · Expert warns government energy plan unlikely to reduce power bills
An expert suggests the government's energy announcement is unlikely to provide relief for power bills. Meanwhile, records show Labour requested a bipartisan approach to natural gas supply 41 days before the Prime Minister's recent plea for cooperation.
3 outlets · Person found dead on Mt Taranaki after being reported missing
A person reported missing on Tuesday afternoon was found deceased on Mt Taranaki. Police say the individual was located just after 5pm. Officers are expected to remain in the area through Wednesday or Thursday to retrieve the body.
3 outlets · New earthquake rules could reduce restoration costs for Chateau Tongariro
Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton says government changes to earthquake-prone building rules could significantly lower repair costs for the Chateau Tongariro. The 96-year-old landmark has been closed since February 2023 due to earthquake risks. The mayor plans to present a petition to parliament regarding the hotel.
4 outlets · Intersection closed in Ngāruawāhia following serious two-vehicle crash
The intersection of Duke Street and River Road in Ngāruawāhia was closed Wednesday morning after a serious crash involving a car and a motorbike. Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after 7am. Reports indicate that critical injuries have been sustained.
3 outlets · Regional differences in mental health access persist despite meeting national targets
New data shows the government is meeting its national mental health and addiction service targets, but access varies significantly between districts. Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey noted that while more patients are receiving timely care, some regions are lagging behind and young people still face difficulties accessing specialist help.
3 outlets · Hamilton cat has stolen more than 200 items
A Hamilton cat known as Nico the Great has stolen over 200 items, including socks, underwear and dishcloths, since April. His owners are now seeking to return the haul to the original owners.
+26 outlets · Woman granted permanent name suppression in toddler suitcase case
A 27-year-old woman has been granted permanent name suppression after being charged with ill-treating a child. The accused, who is on electronically monitored bail, is alleged to have placed a two-year-old in a suitcase within a bus luggage compartment in August. Her next court appearance is scheduled for December.
4 outlets · Aucklanders invited to feedback on proposed fortnightly rubbish collection trial
Auckland Council is seeking public input on a proposed six-month trial of fortnightly kerbside rubbish collections. The consultation period runs from 13 to 31 October for areas including parts of Te Atatū Peninsula, Panmure/Tāmaki Makaurau, and Clendon Park. If approved, the trial could begin in February.
4 outlets · Family appeals for help as Te Anihana Pomana remains missing
The family of 25-year-old Te Anihana Pomana says there have been no sightings or bank movements since she disappeared in Auckland on 21 August. She was last seen leaving the SkyCity Hotel just after 5am, leaving all her belongings behind. Her mother noted she had withdrawn cash the morning she vanished.
3 outlets · Council investigates chemical smells in Kawerau linked to cable thefts
The Bay of Plenty Regional Council is investigating strong chemical smells reported across Kawerau. Authorities believe the odour may be caused by thieves using fire to strip valuable metal from stolen wires and cables. Since 21 September, the council has received 41 odour complaints.
3 outlets · Police take significant step towards solving Baby Ru homicide case
Police have taken a significant step in the investigation into the death of Lower Hutt toddler Baby Ru. The child died at Hutt Hospital in October 2023 following severe blunt force trauma. Investigators are currently assessing gathered evidence to determine criminal culpability.
+26 outlets · Whanganui mayor regrets speaking at Charlie Kirk vigil
Whanganui Mayor Andrew Tripe has expressed regret after speaking at a candlelit vigil for American conservative Charlie Kirk. Tripe stated he knew very little about Kirk before his death and apologised for any upset caused following community backlash and online debate.
+15 outlets · Tim Robinson scores unbeaten century against Australia at Bay Oval
Tim Robinson scored an unbeaten century to rescue the Black Caps during the Chappell-Hadlee T20I series opener in Tauranga. The New Zealand number three was not originally expected to play in the match against Australia. The game marks the 20th anniversary of the first T20 international.
2 outlets · ANZ reduces fixed mortgage rates following BNZ move
ANZ has lowered its one-year fixed home loan rate to 4.49 per cent, matching a recent reduction by BNZ. The bank also cut its six-month fixed rate. These changes occur ahead of the Reserve Bank's next Official Cash Rate decision on 8 October.
2 outlets · Police operation involving Armed Offenders Squad in Far North stands down
Police launched an operation near Lake Ohia on the Karikari Peninsula involving the Armed Offenders Squad and an Eagle helicopter. Officers cordoned off a property and closed a section of State Highway 10 while searching for a wanted man. The road has since reopened and police are continuing their enquiries.
2 outlets · TSS Earnslaw resumes sailings after five-month engine overhaul
The vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw is returning to regular service from Queenstown to Walter Peak. The vessel underwent a complex five-month engine overhaul and its most intensive survey in 113 years.
3 outlets · Canterbury facing drier spring as La Niña conditions develop
Canterbury is expected to experience a drier-than-usual spring and early summer. Rainfall levels across the region are likely to be near or below normal as La Niña conditions build in the Pacific.
2 outlets · Rachin Ravindra ruled out of Chappell-Hadlee series after training injury
Black Caps batter Rachin Ravindra will miss the Chappell-Hadlee series against Australia after suffering a facial injury during a training drill. The injury occurred when he collided with a boundary fence. Jimmy Neesham has been named as his replacement in the squad.
2 outlets · Jonny Tata qualifies for PDC World Darts Championship
New Zealand darts player Jonny Tata has secured a spot at the PDC World Darts Championship in London. During the Darts Players NZ Pro Tour final in Christchurch, Tata achieved a nine-darter while defeating national champion Ben Robb. He will be the 14th New Zealander to compete in the tournament.
2 outlets · Man in custody after police car damaged in Christchurch
A man is in custody following an incident on Wednesday morning where a police vehicle was badly damaged. Police report the vehicle was travelling at speed and had no registration plates. A firearm was also discovered during the incident in Christchurch.
2 outlets · New bridge restores access to Lake Sylvan Track
The Department of Conservation has opened a new 42-metre suspension bridge across the Routeburn River. This replacement reconnects the popular Glenorchy trail and southwest Otago backcountry after a storm destroyed the previous bridge.
2 outlets · Christchurch man fined for attempting to steal Denniston Mine artefacts
A Christchurch man has been fined $800 by the Department of Conservation after attempting to steal metal wheels, axles and a chain from the historic Denniston Mine near Westport. The artefacts are associated with the West Coast mine, which closed in 1967.
2 outlets · Household net worth required to join New Zealand's top 1 per cent
New data from Stats NZ reveals the wealth required to be among the country's richest households. To be classified within the top 1 per cent, a household now needs a net worth of at least $8.7 million.
3 outlets · Yvette McCausland-Durie takes over as interim Silver Ferns coach
Yvette McCausland-Durie has stepped in as interim Silver Ferns coach for the Taini Jamison series following the standing down of Dame Noeline Taurua. McCausland-Durie praised the team's attitude as Netball New Zealand continues meetings with Taurua to reach a consensus.
2 outlets · One dead and one critical after Far North crash
One person has died and another is in critical condition following a crash in Ōhaeawai. Police were called to State Highway 12 around 11.15pm after a car collided with a bank.
2 outlets · Study identifies nitrate contamination risks in rural drinking water
A nationwide study led by Earth Sciences New Zealand found that dairy effluent run-off may cause unsafe nitrate levels in rural bore water. Canterbury and Southland have been identified as contamination hot spots, potentially affecting tens of thousands of people.
2 outlets · Murder trial hears allegations of fatal attack near Waimate
A murder trial has heard that Anaru Moana was lured to a reserve and shot from a tree before being struck with a blunt object. The court heard the alleged attack occurred near Waimate on 20 December 2021.
3 outlets · New Zealand athletes compete at World Para Athletics Championships
Danielle Aitchison won gold in the 100m T36 final at the championships in New Delhi. Meanwhile, Anna Grimaldi finished fourth in the women's 100m T47 final, missing a bronze medal by 0.001 seconds.
2 outlets · Port of Auckland achieves turnaround through new tripartite agreement
The council-owned Port of Auckland has seen a significant turnaround following years of controversy involving debt and safety issues. Under CEO Roger Gray, a new tripartite agreement has led to strong financial results and improved safety procedures. The Maritime Union has suggested its work model should be replicated by other ports.
2 outlets · Government to announce response to electricity market review
The Government is set to deliver a response to a review of New Zealand's electricity sector. The review followed wholesale power price increases caused by shortages last winter. The upcoming measures aim to address the state of the electricity market and prevent future winter power crises.
2 outlets · New Zealanders with sight loss face rising costs and barriers
Data from Blind Low Vision NZ shows nearly 183,000 New Zealanders live with serious sight loss. These individuals face significant inequities, including increasing daily barriers and rising costs. The number of people experiencing vision loss is expected to grow.
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